DISClaimer Single Reviews: Chris Stapleton’s New ‘Stately Ballad Is Exquisite’

DISClaimer slows things down today as the country stars concentrate on ballads.

Most of them are romances, paced by Disc of the Day winner Chris Stapleton’s heart-warming “It Takes a Woman.” In addition, lend your ears to the highly listenable offerings by Tanner Adell and Colbie Caillat.

Also checking in with a ballad is our DISCovery Award winner, Roman Alexander.

This turned out to be a day for comebacks as Lisa Brokop, Shenandoah and Carolyn Dawn Johnson all return to the scene.

ROBYN OTTOLINI / “Sick of Sex”
Writers: Robyn Ottolini/Emily Reid; Producer: Cameron Jaymes; Label: Empire
– This is a pop ballad that explores a topic I don’t believe has been addressed in song before. It is quite wordy and complex, so I doubt radio will play it.

ZACH BRYAN & THE LUMINEERS / “Spotless”
Writers: Zach Bryan/Wesley Schultz/Jeremy Caleb Fraites; Producer: Zach Bryan; Label: Warner
– This guy is always worth a listen. On this spare, stark, ear-catching ballad he’s joined by the Americana stars who chant along as he unspools this lyric of a downer heading nowhere romantically. If you haven’t listened to his self-titled collection, you should.

MADELINE MERLO / “Tim + Faith”
Writers: Jerry Flowers/Madeline Merlo/Parker Welling/Stephony Smith/Zach Crowell; Producer: Zach Crowell; Label: BBR/Wheelhouse
– This lady is a spectacular vocalist, and this dandy slice of romantic nostalgia just might be the tune that lets the whole world know it. The lyric cleverly folds in the power couple’s hit titles. I’m in.

JON PARDI & LUKE BRYAN / “Cowboys and Plowboys”
Writers: Rhett Akins/Cole Taylor/Jacob Rice; Producers: Jon Pardi/Bart Butler/Ryan Gore; Label: Capitol Nashville
– Two hicks swapping country cliches. Probably a hit.

ELVIE SHANE / “Pill”
Writers: Elvie Shane/Lee Starr/Nick Columbia; Producer: Oscar Charles; Label: BBR/Wheelhouse
– The lovely, echoey production and Shane’s captivating voice draw you into a dark tale of a struggle with addiction. Essential listening.

CHRIS STAPLETON / “It Takes a Woman”
Writers: Chris Stapleton/Ronnie Bowman/Jerry Salley; Producers: Chris Stapleton/Dave Cobb/Morgane Stapleton; Label: Mercury Nashville
– This stately ballad is exquisite. Wrap your loved one in your arms and slow dance around the room while his magic voice swirls in the air.

RESTLESS ROAD / “You Don’t Have to Love Me”
Writers: Austin Shawn/Colton Pack/Garrett Nichols/Nate Kenyon/Shawn Austin/Zach Beeken; Producer: Lindsay Rimes; Label: RCA Nashville/1021
– As always with this group, the singing is lustrous and warm. The ultra-romantic ballad is immensely comforting.

COLBIE CAILLAT / “Meant for Me”
Writers: Colbie Caillat/AJ Pruis/Liz Rose; Producer: Jamie Kenney; Label: Blue Jean Baby Records
– The Grammy-winning pop star slips easily into country music on her new Along the Way collection. This lushly produced, romantic ballad from it flows as smoothly as liquid gold.

CAROLYN DAWN JOHNSON / “Road Blocks”
Writers: Carolyn Dawn Johnson/Jennifer Lynn Kennard/Oscar Charles; Producer: Carolyn Dawn Johnson; Label: CDJ
– Johnson re-enters the music scene with a snappy country rocker about persevering through difficulties. Well worth your spins.

SHENANDOAH & LUKE COMBS / “Two Dozen Roses”
Writers: Mac McAnally/Robert Byrne; Producer: Noah Gordon; Label: 8 Track Entertainment
– Shenandoah dusts off its chart-topping 1989 hit with a mighty assist from our reigning country Entertainer of the Year. A classic song performed by classic singers.

ROMAN ALEXANDER & KARLY SCOTT COLLINS / “Downtime”
Writers: Zach Beeken/Garrett Nichols/Colton Pack/Mark Holman/Brett Tyler; Producer: Jared Keim; Label: RA
– This sultry slow jam showcases both voices admirably. It’s snuggle, cuddle-up music in front of the evening fireplace. Alexander seems to be specializing in female collaborations, having previously sung with Alana Springsteen and Ashley Cooke. This title tune of his EP was co-written by Beeken, Nichols and Pack, who are collectively better known as Restless Road.

LISA BROKOP & GEORGETTE JONES / “Who’s Gonna Fill Their Heels”
Writers: Lisa Brokop/Max D. Barnes/Troy Seals; Producers: Chuck Rhodes/Buddy Hyatt; Label: BFD
– The Canadian country award winner returns after a 10-year pause between albums. The title tune of her comeback collection is a female version of the iconic George Jones hit from 1985. George’s daughter lends her terrific voice to the track. The whole thing chimes with charisma.

TANNER ADELL / “Luke Combs”
Writers: Derrick Southerland/Evan Cline/Tanner Adell; Producer: Evan Cline; Label: Columbia
– Sweet, touching, vulnerable, lilting and charming. She listens to the radio and wishes she could be “the girl in a Luke Combs song” like “Better Together” or “Forever After All.” This so richly deserves to be a smash.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Hailey Whitters’ New Tune Is ‘Fizzy As Soda Pop’

Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue.

Our veterans today are Sawyer Brown and Miss Reba. Our newcomers are Dillon James and Chris Ryan. The “borrowed” tune is “Thank God I’m a Country Boy.”

As for something blue, that would be “Scared to Go to Church” by our DISCovery Award winner, Chris Ryan, with an assist by Jelly Roll.

The Disc of the Day award goes to Hailey Whitters. Her challengers for the crown were all collabs—Craig Morgan & Luke Combs, Miko Marks & The Fisk Jubilee Singers and Noah Kahan & Kacey Musgraves.

NOAH KAHAN & KACEY MUSGRAVES / “She Calls Me Back”
Writer: Noah Kahan; Producers: Noah Kahan/Gabe Simon; Label: Mercury Records/Republic Records
– New Englander Kahan is a huge Americana favorite. His pairing with Nashville’s Musgraves is a hooky pop-rocker with a delicious punch. The wordy song is brought down to earth when Musgraves starts singing lead about midway through, and then the two singers take it home, joyously, together.

DYLAN SCOTT / “I’ll Be a Bartender”
Writers: Rocky Block/John Byron/Grady Block/Jordan Dozzi; Producers: Jacob Durrett/Grady Block; Label: Curb
– If you are heartbroken, head on over to Scott’s kitchen counter and he’ll mix you a pick-me-up. It helps that he’s got a crush on ya. The wooshing production of this breezy, midtempo outing adds perfect support to his supple singing.

MORGAN EVANS / “Thank God She’s a Country Girl”
Writers: Morgan Evans/Jesse Frasure/John Sommers; Producer: Chris DeStefano; Label: Warner
– It’s a rewrite of the 1975 John Denver smash “Thank God I’m a Country Boy.” Sommers was the song’s first creator. Evans and Frasure flip the gender and perspective. Thanks, I’ll take the original.

CARLY PEARCE / “Heels Over Head”
Writers: Shane McAnally/Carly Pearce/Josh Osborne; Producers: Shane McAnally/Carly Pearce/Josh Osborne; Label: Big Machine
– It’s not a single, yet, but this new track is as cleverly written as anything she’s done to date. The fiddle-led track skips along jauntily as she describes the cheap trash he’s fallen for. In the bedroom, the new gal is “heels over head” for him, you see.

HAILEY WHITTERS / “I’m In Love”
Writers: Lee Thomas Miller/Nicolle Galyon/Cameron Bedell; Producers: Jake Gear/Hailey Whitters; Label: Big Loud/Pigasus/Songs & Daughters
– Adorable. As cute as a kitten. As fizzy as soda pop. Ya gotta love this little ray of sunshine. Whitters is the reigning ACM New Female Artist of the Year and is vying for a similar CMA award next month. Play this.

SAWYER BROWN / “Get Me to the Stage on Time”
Writer: Mark Miller; Producers: Mark Miller/Blake Shelton; Label: SB
– The durable band is celebrating its 40th anniversary with a new documentary film, and this is its title tune. It is upbeat and propulsive like much of their classic work, but is not retro sounding. It’s very engaging and up to date.

FANCY HAGOOD / “Southern Sound”
Writers: Fancy Hagood/Jon Green/Tofer Brown; Producer: Tofer Brown/Jon Green; Label: FH
– Hagood hosts “Trailblazers Radio” on Apple Radio. This tune teases his sophomore album. It’s the follow-up to his Southern Curiosity collection, which has accumulated more than 30 million streams. What we have here is a plaintive, aching plea of young lovers. Hagood’s heartbreak tenor vocal is framed by an echoey electronic production that is lustrous.

REBA McENTIRE / “Seven Minutes in Heaven”
Writers: Olivia Rudeen/Matt Wynn; Producer: Dave Cobb; Label: MCA
– The Country Music Hall of Famer’s new Not That Fancy collection mainly consists of stripped down versions of some of her biggest hits. It also includes her new single, this tender-hearted ballad about missing a loved one. As always, she delivers the goods as a singer.

DILLON JAMES / “Walking Man”
Writers: Dillon James/Paul Sikes/Paul Wrock; Producers: Paul DiGiovanni/Paul Sikes; Label: Buena Vista/UMG/19 Recordings
– This American Idol alumnus rose from homelessness and substance abuse to garner a country recording contract. His disc debut has a deep-twang production and an intense vibe due to its autobiographical nature. To the accompaniment of electric, echo-chamber guitars he sings of going from being a “dead man walking to a walking man living.”

GABBY BARRETT / “Cowboy Back”
Writers: Gabby Barrett/Jon Nite/Jesse Frasure; Producers: Gabby Barrett/Ross Copperman; Label: Warner
– Barrett co-penned and co-produced this midtempo ode to hard working men with solid, good-guy values in honor of her hubby, a Texan. The production marries twin fiddles to a rocking rhythm track.

MIKO MARKS & THE FISK JUBILEE SINGERS / “Jubilee”
Writer: Lee Bob Wilson; Producer: none listed; Label: MM
– As you might expect, this has a gospel vibe, from the steady, stately piano work to the acclaimed, Grammy honored backing vocalists. Marks takes charge with a confident, assured lead vocal that lifts the song skyward. She and her celebrated choir singers will stage the first live performance of this stirring collaboration tomorrow evening (Oct. 13) at the Grand Ole Opry.

CRAIG MORGAN & LUKE COMBS / “Raise the Bar”
Writers: Craig Morgan/Billy Dean; Producers: Craig Morgan/Phil O’Donnell; Label: Broken Bow
– Morgan’s new Enlisted EP features collaborations with Lainey Wilson, Trace Adkins, Jelly Roll, Blake Shelton, Gary LeVox and Combs. The last named is as rousing and raucous as peerless country singer Morgan is on “Raise the Bar.” The two blue-collar buddies invade the wine-and-cheese crowd’s tavern while singing loud and proud about giving the place “some working class.” The snootier set soon sings along. Lots and lots of fun.

CHRIS RYAN & JELLY ROLL / “Scared to Go to Church”
Writers: Chris Ryan/Jelly Roll/Logan Turner/Dave Kuncio/Jay Joyce; Producer: Jay Joyce; Label: Warner
– A sinner wails the blues about his lifestyle. Ryan’s searing tenor begins the power-packed lament with an anguished delivery. Jelly Roll takes a verse that is even more intense. When newcomer Ryan returns to the mic, he drives the song home with ferocious emotion. A grand disc debut.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Toby Keith Gives ‘Emotionally Gripping’ Performance

Pictured: Toby Keith performs on stage during the 2023 People’s Choice Country Awards at the Grand Ole Opry House on Sept. 28. Photo: Mickey Bernal/NBC via Getty Images

This week, DISClaimer feels warm and nostalgic.

On hand are such monumentally gifted old friends as Toby Keith, Brad Paisley, Dolly Parton, Lacy J. Dalton and Marty Stuart. The youngsters are keeping pace, because we also have Brittney Spencer, Maren Morris, Dustin Lynch and Joy Oladokun with Chris Stapleton playing at the top of their games.

The Disc of the Day goes to the stardust sprinkled collaboration between Old Dominion and Megan Moroney.

ANNE WILSON / “Rain in the Rearview”
Writers: Anne Wilson/Matthew West/Zach Kale/Jaren Johnston; Producers: Jeff Pardo/Jonathan Smith/Zach Kale; Label: UMG
— Wilson is a major Christian-music star, but this is her bid to cross over into country music. Vocally, she’s got the goods. The crashing, echoey production of this anthem sounds like ‘70s rock, which means she should fit right in.

BRAD PAISLEY / “Son of the Mountains”
Writers: Brad Paisley/Dan Tyminski/Jerry Douglas; Producers: Luke Wooten/Brad Paisley; Label: EMI Records Nashville
— This is a splendid country rocker, packed with Paisley guitar runs and wailing vocals. The lyric is an ode to his gorgeous West Virginia homeland. Dan Tyminski provides tenor vocals and Jerry Douglas offers slippery Dobro licks. Dandy listening.

LACY J. DALTON / “Devil By a Different Name”
Writers: Lacy J. Dalton; Producers: none listed; Label: StarVista
— Accompanied by a chugging rhythm track and some scampering fiddle and guitar picking, Dalton offers a timely message of inclusion and togetherness. She’s unafraid to confront our racial, gender, political and sexual differences and to urge tolerance. More power to her.

ZAC BROWN BAND / “The Way You Look Tonight”
Writers: Dorothy Fields/Jerome Kern; Producers: Zac Brown/Matt Mangano; Label: Home Grown Music
— Are you ready for a finger popping, jazzbo outing by these guys, complete with punctuating horn blasts? The Great American Songbook number was introduced by Fred Astaire in the 1936 film Swing Time and won the Best Song Oscar. The Lettermen made it a big pop hit in 1961, and it is associated with singers ranging from Frank Sinatra to Rod Stewart. It has nothing to do with country music, but it’s always a pleasure to hear it.

BRITTNEY SPENCER / “Bigger Than the Song”
Writers: Tofer Brown/Brittney Spencer/Jennifer Anne Wayne; Producers: Marcus “Marc Lo” Lomax; Label: Elektra
— The ballad’s electro track beats steadily behind her while she vocally strolls through a pithy lyric. Along the way, she drops the names of her inspirations—Reba, Aretha, Whitney, Dolly, Alannis, Janis, Johnny & June, Latifah, Beyonce…. Anyhow, it’s ear catching as all get out.

OLD DOMINION & MEGAN MORONEY / “Can’t Break Up Now”
Writers: Emily Weisband/Tofer Brown/Matthew Ramsey/Trevor Rosen; Producers: Old Dominion/Ross Copperman; Label: Columbia Nashville
— Country’s new “it girl” teams up with the genre’s top band to create a little audio magic. The power ballad features primo picking and dynamic vocal harmonies. Matthew Ramsey and Moroney portray a troubled couple who have too much invested in one another to call it quits. As you might guess where this group is concerned, the melody is luscious.

GIRLS NEXT DOOR / “When the Water’s Down”
Writers: TW Hale/Leslie Satcher; Producers: TW Hale/Tom Harding; Label: Girls Next Door 2.0
— Each member of the quartet gets a lead vocal on the verses, then they join in for rousing harmonies on the Dobro-laced choruses. The song has a cool Southern-gothic lyric about a hypocritical small town whose dark secrets emerge during a drought when lowered river water reveals all.

MAREN MORRIS / “The Tree”
Writers: Jimmy Robbins/Laura Veltz/Maren Morris; Producers: Greg Kurstin; Label: Columbia
— Morris apparently bids farewell to country music by releasing her strongest performance in years. The empowerment song finds freedom by exiting a toxic relationship, and it soars with powerful harmonies and audio dynamics. I’m totally into this marvelously written and produced outing.

JOY OLADOKUN & CHRIS STAPLETON / “Sweet Symphony”
Writers: Joy Oladokun/Ian Fitchuk/Shae Jacobs; Producers: Joy Oladokun/Mike Elizondo/Ian Fitchuk; Label: Republic Records/Verve Forecast
— This was originally issued at this time last year. A new version pairing the folkie conversationalist with the fire-breathing soulman is even more thrilling than the original. The ultra romantic ballad remains a great song to snuggle to. This deserves massive attention.

DUSTIN LYNCH / “Honky Tonk Heartbreaker”
Writers: Dustin Lynch/Hunter Phelps/Zach Crowell/Ben Johnson; Producers: Zach Crowell/Ben Johnson; Label: Broken Bow Records
— A good-time party banger with a romping beat and countryboy lyrics. Tap yer toes.

MARTY STUART AND HIS FABULOUS SUPERLATIVES / “Altitude”
Writers: Marty Stuart; Producers: Mike Conley/Chris Scruggs/Harry Stinson/Kenny Vaughn/Marty Stuart; Label: Snakefarm
— Beautifully country, drenched in steel guitar and drawled vocals. The title tune of this outfit’s latest is like a splash of cool water on the desert. To put in culinary terms, this is palate cleansing, so play it and chill. Love at first listen.

DOLLY PARTON & LINDA PERRY / “What’s Up”
Writers: Linda Perry; Producers: Kent Wells/Dolly Parton; Label: Butterfly Records
— The latest advance track from Parton’s forthcoming Rockstar mega, 30-track collection is a 4 Non Blondes cover that was originally a hit in 1993. The ballad begs for a better day. It’s essentially a Dolly solo with songwriter Perry providing a soft harmony vocal.

TOBY KEITH / “Don’t Let the Old Man In”
Writers: Toby Keith; Producers: Toby Keith/Reid Shippen/Arturo Buenahora; Label: Show Dog
— Keith stopped the show with this during last week’s debut People’s Choice Country Awards. His powerful performance of a lyric facing mortality was an emotionally gripping moment that electrified us all. The undertone of his cancer struggle was unmistakable and heart wrenching. The video of it shot to No. 1 on iTunes in the days following the telecast. If you didn’t catch it, do so now.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: The Late Jimmy Buffett ‘Encourages Optimism & Hope’

Jimmy Buffett. Photo: Julie Skarratt

It’s wall-to-wall country stars in this edition of DISClaimer.

For your listening pleasure, we present Dan + Shay, Darius Rucker, Lady A, Charlie Worsham and Kip Moore, Kane Brown, Lauren Alaina and Cody Johnson. And the biggest star of them all gets the Disc of the Day award. It’s Jimmy Buffett singing the most touching and uplifting song of his career. Released posthumously, it demonstrates that this troubadour was making powerful music right up until the end of his life.  

Our DISCovery Award goes to Matt Schuster, whose sound is the one of the most innovative I’ve heard these days. 

LARRY FLEET / “Earned It”
Writers: Larry Fleet/Connie Rae Harrington; Producer: Joey Moi; Label: Big Loud Records
– The title tune of Fleet’s album is a toe-tapping blue-collar anthem about being proud to be a member of the working class. Fiddles saw, guitars twang and his voice drawls with honesty. I love it that this guy is so by-gawd country. Make him the star he deserves to be. 

LADY A / “Love You Back”
Writers: James McNair/Lindsay Rhimes/Emily Weisband; Producer: Dann Huff; Label: BMLG Records
– It’s kind of a snooze until the three kick in with those amazing three-part harmonies. Then it’s katy-bar-the-door. A sterling, stirring audio ride. 

MASON RAMSEY / “Next Right Thing”
Writers: Mason Ramsey/Kendall Goodman/Brandon Day; Producer: Brandon Day; Label: Atlantic Records
– This 16-year-old country phenom wails with fire on this country rocker. The sound is wonderfully relentless, and he bends notes in all the right places. 

KANE BROWN / “I Can Feel It”
Writers: Kane Brown/Phil Collins/Gabe Foust/Jaxson Free; Producer: Dann Huff; Label: RCA Nashville 
– I love his baritone vocal dips in the verses, and he definitely communicates lust in the soaring choruses. This one’s an upbeat banger that is going places. 

CHARLIE WORSHAM & KIP MOORE / “Kiss Like You Dance”
Writers: Jon Nite/Andrew DeRoberts/Andy Albert; Producer: Jaren Johnston; Label: Warner Music Nashville
– Talk about a good time. This joyous, flirtatious bopper rumbles with an outlaw beat, and both men sound like they are having big, big fun. Turn it up and stomp along. 

JIMMY BUFFETT / “Bubbles Up”
Writers: Jimmy Buffett/Will Kimbrough; Producers: Michael Utley/Mac McAnally; Label: Sun Records
– Warmly philosophical and contemplative. Acoustic guitar strumming and a subtle bass heartbeat underlie Buffett’s relaxed, friendly delivery. Co-written with Nashville guitar treasure Will Kimbrough (a longtime Coral Reefer), the ballad reflects on your life’s journey and encourages optimism and hope. What a eulogy. What a gift.

LAUREN ALAINA / “Thicc As Thieves”
Writers: Lauren Alaina/Rocky Block/Jacob Durrett/Parker Welling/Luke Bryan/Dallas Davidson; Producer: Joey Moi; Label: Big Loud Records
– Snappy and sassy. This sprightly rocker has cute lyrics as well as beats to spare and a catchy, layered-vocals production. 

CODY JOHNSON / “Work Boots”
Writers: Jason Afable/Brett Beavers/Canaan Smith; Producer: Trent Willmon; Label: COJO Music/Warner Music Nashville
– The superb “The Painter” remains the single, but here’s another preview of CoJo’s Leather album, due Nov. 3. It’s a jaunty ditty that urges, “feet don’t fail me now.” Get up off your barstool and make your work boots dance with her. Crispy twanging and slurred slide notes abound.

KIMBERLY PERRY / “Fools Gold”
Writers: Kimberly Perry/Nicolle Galyon/Jimmy Robbins; Producer: Jimmy Robbins; Label: Records Nashville/Columbia
– Our story so far: She had country hits with her two brothers in a trio act, then decided she was going to be a pop star. That didn’t work out, so now she wants back into country music, this time as a solo. With its processed vocals and dance club beats, this doesn’t sound all that “country” to me. 

DAN + SHAY / “Then Again”
Writers: Dan Smyers/Shay Mooney/Andy Albert/Jordan Reynolds/Lori McKenna; Producers: Dan Smyers/Scott Hendricks; Label: Warner Music Nashville
– A heavenly listening experience—lilting, sweet, romantic, wafting and gentle. They harmonize beautifully as the reflective lyric unspools. A complete audio pleasure. The song also inspired a music video, one of eight (!) the duo has made to promote songs on their new Bigger Houses album. 

DARIUS RUCKER / “Southern Comfort”
Writers: Chris LaCorte/Matt Rogers/Josh Osborne; Producer: Dann Huff; Label: Capitol Nashville
– Uptempo and breezy, it’s an ode to the South with Allman-esque guitars and Dixie name-dropping galore. Rucker sings at the top of his range, and is extra-effective doing so. He should do it more often.

SAWYER BROWN / “Under This Old Hat”
Writer: none listed; Producer: Blake Shelton; Label: SB
– This veteran country band stars in Get Me to the Stage on Time, a documentary film that premieres this week. Produced by Blake Shelton, their comeback album features this zippy, rapid-fire-vocal rocker about living on the road. Sounding as good as ever, fellas. 

MATT SCHUSTER / “Tell Me Tennessee”
Writers: Matt Schuster/Josh Dorr/Andy Albert/Lalo Guzman; Producer: Chris LaCorte; Label: Warner Music Nashville
– I dig this guy’s refreshing sound. His plaintive, heartfelt tenor is backed by a jingle-jangle, pop-ish track with irresistible rhythm. The hooky bopper’s lyric calls out to a missing lover to join him in the Volunteer State. I’m definitely intrigued. Send more. 

DISClaimer Single Reviews: ‘A Lot To Fall In Love With’ This Americana Week

Tyler Childers, Allison Russell (Photo: Dana Trippe) and The Shindellas (Photo: Ezelle Franklin)

It’s Americana Week here in Music City, so let’s dive right in.

There’s a lot to fall in love with in this stack of sounds. So much so that we have three Disc of the Day winners. The male winner is the exploding Tyler Childers. Allison Russell takes home the female award. The Group du jour is The Shindellas.

Our DISCovery Award goes to Carter Faith. Looking forward to more from her. 

ALLISON RUSSELL / “The Returner”
Writers: Allison Russell/Drew Lindsay/JT Nero; Producers: Allison Russell/Dim Star; Label: Fantasy
– The title tune of this gifted artist’s latest collection is a slow groove that’s equal parts gospel, folk and soul. The lyric of surrender and inspiration glows with mysticism and is drenched in sisterly harmony vocals. This album is essential. Russell’s social activism was saluted with the Seigenthaler Free Speech Award at the Americana Awards on Wednesday eve.

BUDDY & JULIE MILLER / “I’ll Never Live It Down”
Writer: Julie Miller; Producer: Buddy Miller; Label: New West Records
In The Throes drops tomorrow (Sept. 22) as the latest album from these enduring Americana icons. It features celeb guests such as Emmylou Harris, Regina McCrary, Larry Campbell and Gurf Morlix. On this focus track, Buddy goes solo with spare guitar-percussion backing. The drawling ballad is steeped in sadness and the heartbreak of a broken relationship. He will perform tomorrow at Musicians Corner in Centennial Park on a stellar bill that also includes Rodney Crowell, The Secret Sisters, The Wild Feathers and the North Mississippi Allstars. The sounds commence at 3 p.m. 

BRANDY CLARK / “Come Back to Me”
Writers: Brandy Clark/Shane McAnally/Trevor Rosen; Producer: Brandi Carlile; Label: Warner Records
– The track ripples and rolls with folkie verve. Clark, as always, sings like a beacon of truth. The message is a lovely, releasing farewell with a promise that the one leaving can always return home. This goddess of song showcases at City Winery today (Sept. 21) at the Northern Lights Music show presented by Brandi Carlile & Tracy Gershon.

DALE WATSON / “That’s Where The Money Goes”
Writer: Dale Watson; Producer: none listed; Label: Cleopatra Records
– Of course he should have been a country superstar years ago, but let’s not go into that again. As it is, he’s an Americana founding father. Watson’s new Starvation Box collection features this working-class lament that’s a deep-South blues tune with a Johnny Cash attitude. I remain a devoted fan. 

JOY OLADOKUN / “Taking Things For Granted”
Writer: Olubukola Oladokun; Producer: Joy Oladokun; Label: Amigo/Verve Forecast/Republic Records
– This Nashvillian’s latest, Proof of Life, confirms her as one of our great communicators of hope and insight. This upbeat track explores a child’s loss of innocence and the persistence of the spirit. Oladokun sings with a mixture of resignation, indignation and intellect. A classic, true troubadour. 

CHARLEY CROCKETT / “The Man from Waco”
Writers: Charley Crockett/Bruce Robison/Kullen Fuchs/Taylor Grace; Producer: Bruce Robison; Label: Son of Davy/Thirty Tigers
– This Texas treasure is a prolific record maker and a force of nature as a performer. This is the title tune of his current album, a cowboy saga of murder and its haunting aftermath. Also, check out his music video for the moody “I’m Just a Clown.”

THE GOODWIN BROTHERS / “Everyday Thing”
Writers: Dwight Liles/Tom Paden; Producer: Jonathan Goodwin; Label: Pinecastle Records
– This Lexington, Kentucky band is billed as “bluegrass/Americana,” which is suitable, since the Americana genre has always embraced all kinds of acoustic sounds. The group’s Have You Noticed album is being promoted via a charming video of this lilting ode to simple living and country pleasures. Sweetly inviting.

CARTER FAITH / “Cowboy Forever”
Writers: Carter Faith/Lauren Hungate/Tofer Brown; Producer: Tofer Brown; Label: CF
– She sings in a deceptively delicate soprano. As the heartache song progresses, a tense power emerges, and she breaks into falsetto and back with ease. The minor-key track echoes with a neo-western vibe, and the whole thing is a highly involving audio ride. Faith showcases tonight at 8 p.m. at The Basement East in Nashville. 

ALISON BROWN & STEVE MARTIN / “Foggy Morning Breaking”
Writers: Alison Brown/Steve Martin; Producers: Alison Brown/Garry West; Compass Records
– I can’t remember the last time I heard a country instrumental this enchanting. Brown is a three-finger banjo wonder, capable of dazzling runs and groovy time signatures. Martin keeps pace in clawhammer banjo style while Stuart Duncan (fiddle), Sierra Hull (mandolin), Chris Eldridge (guitar) and Todd Phillips (bass) get their licks in. If you need a feel-good, pick-me-up, look no further. 

TYLER CHILDERS / “In Your Love”
Writers: Tyler Childers/Geno Seale; Producers: Tyler Childers/The Food Stamps; Label: Hickman Holler/RCA Records
– This guy’s new Rustin’ In The Rain album is an all-genre sales sensation and his new arena tour has sold out everywhere, including two nights at Madison Square Garden, Red Rocks and Rupp Arena as well as two nights next April at Bridgestone. The penetrating country singer-songwriter is becoming a total rock star without any radio support. Americana Highways calls him, “one of the most talented and important musical forces in American music.” Amen to that. The brilliantly acted video for this love song has stirred some controversy since it depicts two male coal miners who fall in love until one is felled by black lung. If you are not on this man’s express train to stardom, get on board now. 

NATHANIEL RATELIFF & THE NIGHT SWEATS / “Tight Rope”
Writer: Leon Russell; Producer: none listed; Label: Stax
– These soulful Americana faves take Leon Russell’s 1972 pop hit out for a welcome revival spin. Goody goody. 

THE SHINDELLAS / “Ooh La La”
Writers: Claude Kelly/Chuck Harmony (Louis York); Producers: Claude Kelly/Chuck Harmony (Louis York); Label: Weirdo Workshop/Thirty Tigers
– The “girl group” sound of the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s is not dead. It lives on in the delicious sound of this Nashville trio. They swing lightly to the groove-soaked beats of this sunny love ditty, alternating solo vocal step-outs with creamy harmonies. As fizzy and sweet as a soda-fountain concoction. There’s a video out now, and you’ll find it on the group’s new album, Shindo, which drops Oct. 20. Can’t wait that long? The Shindellas’ Americana showcase is Saturday (Sept. 23) at 7 p.m. at The Basement East. 

JESSI COLTER / “Standing on the Edge of Forever”
Writer: Jessi Colter; Producer: Margo Price; Label: Appalachia Record Co.
– Legendary Colter teams up with Americana darling Margo Price on her new album, dropping Oct. 27. Its title track is out now, and it’s an echoey rocker with beats to spare. Three of its other tunes will be vocal collabs with Price, and that’s something to look forward to, since she is a fine harmony vocalist. 

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Colbie Caillat & Sheryl Crow Bring Breezy New Tune

We’ve got country duets coming out of our ears in this edition of DISClaimer.

Mind you, there is superb solo work from Sam Williams, Tyler Hubbard, Willie Nelson and Lori McKenna. But there’s no denying the force generated by Zach Bryan with Kacey Musgraves, Jenni Mudaur and Teddy Thompson and The Bellamy Brothers with K.T. Oslin.

Both of our award winners this week are collaborations, too. The Disc of the Day honor goes to the scintillating, uplifting Colbie Caillat and Sheryl Crow duet “I’ll Be Here.” The DISCovery Award goes to the husband-wife team of Alyssa and Wayne Brewer, whose George and Tammy recreation must be heard to be believed. 

COLBIE CAILLAT & SHERYL CROW / “I’ll Be Here”
Writers: Colbie Caillat/Brett James/Jason Reeves/Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds; Producer: Jamie Kenney; Label: Blue Jean Baby Records/The Orchard
– This is the title tune of Caillat’s new country album (due Oct. 6). It is an uplifting, breezy tempo tune that exudes love and light, supportive friendship and spirit-lifting trust. She and Crow have migrated here from pop and both righteously belong in the country firmament, because they’re better country singers than half of the people that are already in the format. Play and believe. 

JENNI MULDAUR & TEDDY THOMPSON / “If I Needed You”
Writer: Townes Van Zandt; Producer: David Mansfield; Label; Sun Label Group
– She is the daughter of Geoff and Maria Muldaur and he is the son of Richard and Linda Thompson. With such a royal folk-music lineage, is it any surprise that Jenni and Teddy absolutely nail this revival of the 1981 Emmylou Harris and Don Williams folkie duet? It is lilting and loving, a true balm for the soul. Their album is entitled Sing the Great Country Duets. Recommended without reservation. 

ALYSSA & WAYNE BREWER / “We’re Gonna Hold On”
Writers: Bobby Braddock/Rafe Van Hoy; Producers: Wayne Brewer/Mason Brewer/Gary Brewer; Label: SGM/Sony/The Orchard
– This husband-and-wife duo are offering a collection titled A&W Sing George & Tammy. It takes courage to take on the repertoire made immortal by two of the greatest singers in country music history, but the Brewers are impressively up to the task. Both of them have pitch-perfect vocal chops and can match their Hall of Fame forebears lick for lick. Frankly, I was blown away. 

DUSTIN LYNCH “Killed the Cowboy”
Writers: Jordan Reynolds/Devin Dawson/Anderson East; Producer: Zach Crowell; Label: Broken Bow Records
– Moody and minor key, this is a somewhat arty change of pace for Lynch. I think it’s a gutsy choice for a single. Although it’s haunting, the song doesn’t exactly scream “hit” to me.

LORI MCKENNA / “Wonder Drug”
Writer: Lori McKenna; Producer: Dave Cobb; Label: CN Records/Thirty Tigers
– In a word, awesome. With just their acoustic guitars, McKenna and Cobb lay down a performance that will stop you in your tracks. The woman’s achingly brilliant song describes the devastation of drugs and asks, “Why couldn’t Love be the wonder drug?” This reminder of country’s folk roots belongs on your playlist at once. McKenna and the equally brilliant Brandy Clark are touring together this fall. I was hugely disappointed to learn that there’s no Nashville date on the schedule (Knoxville is Oct. 5 and Chattanooga is Oct. 6). 

WILLIE NELSON / “Good Hearted Woman”
Writers: Willie Nelson/Waylon Jennings; Producer: Buddy Cannon; Label: Sony Legacy
– Nelson goes bluegrass on his new album, which drops tomorrow (Sept. 15). This new take on his Waylon Jennings collab classic has lively banjo and fiddle backing. The real revelation is how strong his voice still sounds at age 90. Eternally a fan. The original, by the way, was the CMA Single of the Year in 1976.

ZACH BRYAN & KACEY MUSGRAVES / “I Remember Everything”
Writers: Zach Bryan/Kacey Musgraves; Producer: Zach Bryan; Label: Warner Records
– Slow, deliberate and eloquently painful, this ballad explores the anguish of heartbreak with an airy grace. Both singers languish in sorrow. 

MUSTANGS OF THE WEST / “Sea of Heartbreak”
Writers: Paul Hampton/Hal David; Producers: Kirk Pasich/Colin Devlin; Label: KZZ Music/Blue Elan Records
– This durable, five-piece, all-female band takes on the exquisite 1961 Don Gibson golden oldie with verve. This song is one of my all-time country favorites, and their vocal harmonies are simply stunning. What’s not to love? 

TYLER HUBBARD / “Back Then Right Now”
Writers: Tyler Hubbard/Jessie Jo Dillon/Geoff Warburton/David Garcia; Producers: Tyler Hubbard/Jordan Schmidt; Label: EMI Nashville
– Nostalgia for the good old days, set to an insanely catchy beat. This guy’s voice usually gets to me, and this outing is no exception. Turn it up and spin around the room. 

THE BELLAMY BROTHERS & K.T. OSLIN / “I’d Lie to You for Your Love”
Writers: David Bellamy/Howard Bellamy/Frankie Miller/Jeff Barry; Producer: The Bellamy Brothers; Label: Select-O-Hits
– Recorded in 2006, before Parkinson’s took her from us too soon in 2020, Oslin takes the lead on this collaboration. The groove is slinky. The mood is romantic. The vibe is pure pleasure. David and Oslin trade saucy asides as the tune progresses with its steady groove. The song’s so-clever lyric is a proven winner, having topped the country hit parade for The Bellamy Brothers in 1985. Essential listening. 

SAM WILLIAMS / “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry”
Writer: Hank Williams; Producer: none listed; Label: Mercury Nashville
– Sam honors his grandfather with this stately, smooth, sad revival of this cornerstone song of the Hank Williams catalog. The pace is cautious, as if heart, voice and instruments might all break at any moment. No matter how familiar you are with the original (or its many revivals), this version will touch your heart. Sam will take part in the concert saluting the 100th anniversary of Hank’s birth staged by the Country Music Hall of Fame on Sept. 21. 

LUTHER DICKINSON / “Are You Sure”
Writers: Homer Banks/Raymond E. Jackson; Producer: Luther Dickinson; Label: New West Records/Antone’s Records
– Nashvillian Dickinson is noted for his work in the North Mississippi All Stars, but his new solo album revisits the songs he loved as a little boy growing up in Memphis. It includes such Americana guests as Yola, Allison Russell and Lillie Mae. On this sing-songy revival of a Staple Singers oldie, he is joined by daughters Sharde Thomas and Sharisse Norman. File under: Children’s Music. 

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Billy Currington Takes Listeners ‘Beyond The Reef’

It’s “baby acts” day in country music for this edition of DISClaimer.

Colby Acuff, Neon Union, Kylie Morgan, Randall King, Track45 and HuneyFire are all looking to take the next step up in their careers. But they’ll have to get by such established hitmakers as Reba McEntire, Maddie & Tae and our Disc of the Day winner, Billy Currington.

I can’t wait for you to hear this week’s DISCovery Award winner. It goes to Taylor Goyette for his crazy-good, marvelously creative “Show Goes On.”

TAYLOR GOYETTE / “Show Goes On”
Writers: Taylor Goyette/Joe Haydel/John Caldwell/Mark Addison Chandler; Producer: John Caldwell; Label: TG
– This is an uber-cool sound. There’s a funky stomp beat going on and off-kilter carnival audio beneath a raspy folk-soul vocal. The lyric is jam packed with vivid, doomsday, breaking-news imagery. Whoever this guy is, I’m a fan. So are some other folks, because this is blowing up on iTunes Country. 

BILLY CURRINGTON / “Anchor Man”
Writers: Paul Overstreet/Scotty Emerick; Producer: Carson Chamberlain; Label: Mercury Nashville
– Wistful and yearning. It will take you out beyond the reef onto the open sea with a breeze in your face. The song’s protagonist is a former news anchor who has chucked it all to ignore headlines and deadlines and spend his days fishing. It wasn’t intended as such, but it kinda sounds like an audio homage to the late and much mourned Jimmy Buffett. 

TANNER USREY / “Who I Am”
Writers: none listed; Producer: Beau Bedford; Label: Atlantic Records
– The production rocks nicely. The singing has urgency and force. The song and its unattractive lyric do nothing for me.

MADDIE & TAE / “Heart They Didn’t Break”
Writers: Ryan Beaver/Benjy Davis/Anna Vaus; Producer: Corey Crowder; Label: Mercury Nashville
– As usual, their vocal harmonies are perfection. The song about friendship carrying you through heartbreak has power and truth. I have always loved these ladies. 

RANDALL KING / “The One You’re Waiting On”
Writers: Adam Wright/Shannon Wright; Producers: Randall King/Jared Conrad; Label: Warner Music Nashville
– King remains one of my very favorite current country singers. And I do mean country, not warmed-over ’70s rock. This man stands proudly in the tradition of Keith Whitley, Randy Travis, Alan Jackson and Merle Haggard. On this gentle barroom ballad, he winningly wishes he were the object of her affection. It pushes every honky-tonk button on the jukebox of your heart. 

KENDALL TUCKER, JELLY ROLL & STATE OF MINE / “Dragging Me Down”
Writers: Kendall Tucker/Jason DeFord/Randy Foucha; Producers: Bernard James Perry/John A. Pregler; Label: KT
– Tucker is a white rapper and State of Mine is a rock band. In this audio battle between genres, rock wins and country never even fires a shot. 

HUNEYFIRE / “Breaking Necks”
Writers: Cheaza Figueroa/Marriana Nevarez-Barlow/Jason Pennock; Producers: Cheaza Figueroa/Jason Pennock; Label: HF
– This mother-daughter, Afro-Latino country duo returns with a strutting, sassy, empowering outing. The reason she’s “breaking necks” is because when she walks by, the boys snap their heads around. Flirty fun. By the way, Figueroa’s mother was an Ikette, and Nevarez-Barlow’s dad was in All-4-One. 

NEON UNION / “This Side of the Dirt”
Writers: Hunter Phelps/Nicollette Hayford/Ben Johnson/Jerry Flowers; Producer: Dann Huff; Label: Red Street Records
– Rousing and energetic, this ditty says you should live every day by loving your special someone like it’s your last day on earth. The tracks rocks and the men sing heartily. Good to see that this duo are still in there swinging for the fences. 

REBA McENTIRE / “Till You Love Me (Acoustic Version)”
Writers: Gary Burr/Bob DiPiero; Producer: Dave Cobb; Label: MCA Nashville
– For her new Not That Fancy collection, McEntire teamed with producer Dave Cobb to record stripped-down versions of some of her best hits. Its lead track selects one of the most gorgeous melodies she’s ever sung and presents it to you in the throat of one of our greatest vocalists ever. Worthy to polish the reputation of this Country Music Hall of Fame member to a brilliant new shine. 

TRACK45 / “Drinkin and Thinkin”
Writers: Ben Johnson/Ashley Gorley/Hunter Phelps/Michael Hardy; Producers: Track45/Jason Hall; Label: Stoney Creek Records
– Caught in a dangerous whirlpool of heartbreak. The sibling trio’s harmonies are chiming amid a churning, blasting track that makes trying to drink away his memory sound like a dangerous proposition. Extremely well done. 

COLBY ACUFF / “Movin'”
Writers: Colby Acuff/Ben Roberts/Ben Chapman; Producer: Eddie Spear; Label: Sony Music Nashville
– Strummy and jaunty, this is a super dandy road song. Acuff’s boyish country tenor exudes optimism, promise and better days. The fiddler saws away in upbeat sympathy. Extremely listenable. 

KYLIE MORGAN / “Making It Up As I Go”
Writers: Kylie Morgan/KK Johnson/Jordan Minton; Producer: KK Johnson; Label: EMI Nashville
– Winsome and winning. When do you ever really feel grown up? Probably never, says Morgan, and we can all relate to that. “Gettin’ older don’t make you wiser,” she sings. Can I get an “Amen?” Sweetly pensive with a thumpy backbeat. 

THE WAR AND TREATY / “Stretch Out”
Writers: Michael Trotter Jr./Tanya Trotter/Joel Taylor; Producer: Joel Taylor; Label: UMG Nashville
– There are lots of open spaces in the percussive track. When you’re dealing with singers this powerful, that’s a very, very good thing since it gives them room to emote. Or, rather, to “stretch out.” A dynamic change of pace. 

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Walker Hayes Delivers Delightful ‘Hillbilly Earworm’

Walker Hayes. Photo: Robert Chavers

The country music scene is rocking this week.

Blasting into the dog days of summer with tempo tunes are Dan + Shay, Robyn Ottolini, Justin Moore, Reyna Roberts, Breland and our Disc of the Day winner, Walker Hayes.

DISClaimer also has a Latin tinge this week thanks to contributions from Stephanie Urbina Jones and Andrea Vasquez, the latter of whom takes home the DISCovery Award.

CARRIE CUNNINGHAM / “Just Like”
Writers: Carrie Cunningham/Riley Roth; Producers: Carrie Cunningham/Scott Gerow; Label: Music City Melodies
– She calls it “disco country.” I don’t know about that, but along with the insistent R&B groove you get a cool, throaty alto vocalist with total confidence and a solid piece of songwriting. Nicely done.

WALKER HAYES / “Good With Me”
Writers: Walker Hayes/Shane McAnally/Scott Stepakoff; Producers: Walker Hayes/Joe Thibodeau; Label: Monument Records/RCA
– Just when you were wondering what happened to the “Fancy Like” guy, he’s back with a hillbilly earworm that is just as delightful. This ditty is one big grin from start to finish. I love that the verses touch on hot-button topics and the choruses toss ‘em all out the window to warble merrily about good times at the lake. A complete delight.

ANDREA VASQUEZ / “The Bed You Made”
Writers: Andrea Vasquez/Hayley Cardona/Emily Davis; Producer: Chris Condon; Label: AV
– Vasquez is a Song Suffragette who has built a local reputation for her showy club performances. The title tune of her album is a cautionary saga about the consequences of his cheating, delivered in a penetrating, powerful vocal. Promising.

DAN + SHAY / “We Should Get Married”
Writers: Dan Smyers/Jimmy Robbins/Ernest Keith Smith; Producers: Dan Smyers/Scott Hendricks; Label: Warner Music Nashville
– The single remains the red-hot radio fave “Save Me the Trouble.” But in this new video and track, the duo steps out of their balladeer typecasting to show that they can lay down a zippy, dancefloor banger with the best of ‘em. A rampaging blast.

STEPHANIE URBINA JONES & WENDY MOTEN / “Rhinestone Cowgirl”
Writer: Larry Weiss; Producers: Stephanie Urbina Jones/Preston Sullivan; Label: Global Eyes Entertainment, LP /Casa Del Rio Records
– Jones and her Honky-Tonk Mariachi band give this Latina flavor. Time Jumpers member and The Voice runner-up Moten brings the vocal firepower. A female duet in country is rare, and this dandy update of the 1975 Glen Campbell classic makes you eager to hear more. Loved every minute.

BRELAND / “Cowboy Don’t”
Writers: Breland/Zachary Manno/Haleey Mae Campbell; Producers: Sam Sumser/Sean Small/Zachary Manno; Label: Bad Realm/Atlantic Records
– Buckle up. This one’s a thrilling ride. Cowboys will break your heart and treat you like a one-night stand, but Breland promises he won’t on this breakneck country rocker. I think I hear a hit.

BRYAN MARTIN / “We Ride”
Writers: Bryan Martin/Vernon Brown; Producer: Nick Gibbens; Label: Average Joes Entertainment
– This moody, midtempo track wears its southern-rock influence and blue-collar attitude with pride. Martin has a big social media following, and I’ll bet a whole lot of those followers are White, working-class men. This week, his career took a step forward with his debut performance at the Grand Ole Opry on Tuesday evening.

BRIAN KELLEY / “Dirt Cheap”
Writers: Seth Ennis/Wyatt McCubbin/Andy Sheridan; Producer: Dann Huff; Label: Big Machine Records
– Mellow, swaying and gently bopping. It’s an ode to country living, complete with green grass, tin-roof rain, fishing, praying, front-porch swinging, fresh air and a slower-paced lifestyle. Laid-back twang that’s smooth sailing all the way.

GHOST PARTY / “Yankee Reaper”
Writer: McCullough Ferguson; Producer: Steve Christensen; Label: Ghost Party
– It says here that they’re a “Texas psychedelic country band.” It sounds more like garage-country with guitar twang and steel playing in a deep well, plus a whispery lead singer buried in a muddy mix. A thrashing drummer keeps uptempo time. Perhaps “bizarre” is the word I’m looking for.

JUSTIN MOORE / “She’s Got Lovin’ On Her Mind”
Writers: Justin Moore/Brandon Kinney/Jeremy Stover; Producer: Jeremy Stover; Label: The Valory Music Co.
– It’s a country rocker with a naked hottie on its brain.

ROBYN OTTOLINI / “All My Friends Are Hot”
Writers: Robyn Ottolini/Emily Reid; Producer: Cameron Jaymes; Label: Warner Music Nashville/Aleu Records
– A boatload of fun. These gals are out for a par-tay, fellas. They are all babes who turn heads, tie tongues and get free drinks. The lyrics are clever as heck and the track rocks with gusto.

PAT BOONE & CRYSTAL GAYLE / “You and I”
Writer: Frank J. Myers; Producers: Jimmy Nichols/Frank J. Myers; Label: The Gold Label
– Boone was a 1950s pop star and teen heartthrob who is now releasing his first country album. He’s a Nashville native who married Red Foley’s daughter Shirley. She passed away in 2019, and this tune is dedicated to her. It’s a remake of the 1982 duet by Crystal Gayle and Eddie Rabbitt, and she recreates her harmony part here. The ballad’s languid production is awash in strings and steel.

REYNA ROBERTS / “Louisiana”
Writers: none listed; Producers: none listed; Label: Empire Nashville
– Her debut country album drops a week from Friday. Titled Bad Girl Bible, it includes this rousing, strutting new single. Roberts is a take-charge lady who can deliver a tempo tune like nobody’s business.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Charlie Worsham & Luke Combs Create ‘Musical Magic’

Charlie Worsham, Luke Combs

The contenders in DISClaimer this week pit established hit makers against up-and-comers.

In the former column are John Rich, Dolly Parton, Scotty McCreery and Blake Shelton. On the up-and-comers ballot are Catie Offferman, Elvie Shane, Alana Springsteen and Boy Named Banjo.

Guess what? The Disc of the Day winner is a track that combines the two. Country king Luke Combs lends his voice to aspiring hit maker Charlie Worsham’s to take the prize.

The DISCovery Award winner is Oliver Anthony. I look forward to him singing with accompanists and a record producer.

CATIE OFFERMAN & HAYES CARLL / “Ask Me to Dance”
Writers: Catie Offerman/Brent Cobb/Neil Medley; Producer: Dann Huff; Label: MCA Nashville
– Two bored honky-tonkers face closing time, so she urges him to make a move. Drawling, clever and utterly endearing. Huff’s production has twang and toe-tapping to spare.

SCOTTY McCREERY / “Cab in a Solo”
Writers: Scotty McCreery/Frank Rogers/Brent Anderson; Producers: Frank Rogers/Derek Wells/Aaaron Eshuis; Label: Triple Tigers
– This is fine mainstream country. It’s a heartbreak tune where he tries unsuccessfully to make up with her by going to her place with flowers and a bottle of wine. No luck. So he’s drinking cabernet in a solo cup, by himself in his truck. Hence, “Cab in a solo, solo in the cab of my truck.” Well written. McCreery is on a roll with five No. 1 records under his belt.

ALANA SPRINGSTEEN / “amen”
Writers: Alana Springsteen/Delacey/Sarah Solovay/Ido Zmishlany; Producers: Alana Springsteen/Ido Zmishlany; Label: Columbia
– Sung from a place of honesty and vulnerability, this captures the feelings of someone in their 20s who is venturing out on their own. Yes, she’ll make mistakes and probably screw up, but it’s her life to live. Her raw, lonesome vocal is set in a stark audio landscape of electric guitar, voices and an echo chamber. Very effective.

CHARLIE WORSHAM & LUKE COMBS / “How I Learned to Pray”
Writers: Charlie Worsham/Jeremy Spillman/Ryan Tyndell; Producer: Jaren Johnston; Label: Warner
– Beautifully done. Worsham’s pitch-perfect voice and guitar eloquence carry the poignant piece with a wonderfully sympathetic assist by Combs. If you don’t already love Charlie Worsham, you are way behind the times. Get on board and get ready for Compadres, an October EP featuring collaborations with Lainey Wilson, Kip Moore, Dierks Bentley and Elle King as well as this little moment of musical magic.

GWEN STEFANI & BLAKE SHELTON / “Love Is Alive”
Writer: Kent Robbins; Producer: Brent Maher; Label: BMG
– The first track from the forthcoming Judds tribute album is a revelation. Stefani carries the lead vocal with admirable finesse, smooth assurance and perfect emotional shading. Shelton holds back, offering flawless harmony support. The result is a polished audio jewel. Two stars twinkling brightly.

DOLLY PARTON / “Let It Be”
Writers: John Lennon/Paul McCartney; Producer: Kent Wells; Label: Butterfly/Big Machine
– Drawn from Parton’s forthcoming Rockstar album, the classic power ballad features ample vocals and piano by Paul McCartney, not to mention Peter Frampton’s guitar solo and percussion by Ringo Starr and Mick Fleetwood. Frankly, I’m kinda sick of the song, but the celebrity contributions kept me listening intently.

ELVIE SHANE / “Jonesin”
Writers: Elvie Shane/Oscar Charles/Ryan Tyndall/Jeremy Spillman; Producer: Oscar Charles; Label: BBR/Wheelhouse
– Blue-collar rocking with a driving rhythm section, chaotic electric guitars and a shredded, crisis-inducing vocal, this is edgy stuff. Shane’s performance raises goosebumps as he wails of unsatisfied needs and longing for a fiery life. This guy always scores major points for being both utterly individualistic and undeniably gifted.

OLVIER ANTHONY / “Rich Man North of Richmond”
Writer: Oliver Anthony; Producer: none listed; Label: OAM
– This tune is a viral sensation. I don’t see what all the hubbub is about: Anthony is merely singing about the populist frustration that country music has been addressing for generations—hard work for low pay, onerous taxes, exploitative rich folks, unfeeling politicians. Maybe it’s the fact that the lyric complains about fat people on welfare? Is that all? Musically, it’s not much, either. The track is just him bellowing with solo guitar accompaniment.

JENNY TOLMAN / “Right Back”
Writers: Jenny Tolman/Dave Brainard/Jeff Silbar; Producer: Dave Brainard; Label: Old Sol
– Our favorite indie darling returns with a lively two stepper that’s country, country, country. She tells her beer-swilling deadbeat hubby she’s heading to the store, but she’s really taking off for parts unknown. Bye-bye, buddy.

MICHAEL RAY & MEGHAN PATRICK / “Spirits and Demons”
Writers: Allison Veltz Cruz/Alexander Palmer/Michael Tyler; Producer: Michael Knox; Label: Warner
– This oomphy-sounding duet sez that booze doesn’t really cure a heartbreak. “Getting over you drunk is the only thing that’s lasting forever and ever.” Both partners sing with gusto.

BOY NAMED BANJO / “Lonely In This Town”
Writers: Barton Davies/Chris Stevens/Marv Green/William Reames; Producer: Oscar Charles; Label: Mercury
– Is this the perfect contemporary country band or what? Every track I have heard from Boy Named Banjo during the past two years has been almost impossibly exquisite, and this splendid, jangling country rocker is no exception. Everything works here, the road-trip rhythm, the accomplished harmony singing, the hooky songwriting, the hearty lead vocal the pinpoint production. These guys have it ALL going on.

JOHN RICH / “I’m Offended”
Writers: John Rich/Bobby Pinson/Vicky McGehee; Producer: none listed; Label: JR
– It aims to be light hearted, but the sentiment is so simplistic it just goes in one ear and out the other.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Carly Pearce Proves Again That She Was ‘Born To Wear A Country Crown’

Photo: Courtesy of Big Machine Records

The most noteworthy country music tracks in this edition of DISClaimer are collaborations.

They’re all pretty unusual. Hip-hopper Flo Rida is with Russell Dickerson, Will Hoge is joined by his fellow country “outsiders” of the Black Opry. Billy Ray Cyrus is singing along with pop singer Firerose. Old Dominion has forged an audio partnership with Megan Moroney. Old Crow Medicine show is making merry with Sierra Ferrell, and Morgan Wade is steaming things up with her hot girlfriend. 

Carly Pearce is known as a willing collaborator (Lee Brice, Ashley McBryde, Matthew West, Patty Loveless, Chris Stapleton), but she’s flying solo on the Disc of the Day, “Country Music Made Me Do It.” Kasey Tyndall, also a solo, wins the DISCovery Award.

KYLIE MORGAN / “A Few Hearts Ago”
Writers: Kylie Morgan/Casey Brown/James McNair; Producer: Casey Brown; Label: EMI Nashville
– Pop-ish, pretty and lively. There’s a lot of audio compression and electronics going on here, but her vocal still cuts through. Despite missteps and past failures, she finds romance with a hopeful heart.

CHASE RICE / “Bench Seat”
Writer: Chase Rice; Producer: Oscar Charles; Label: Broken Bow Records
– This is a touching ballad about a man and his dog. Its video is a cautionary tale about suicide that is becoming a film-festival favorite. As usual, Rice sings with conviction.

KASEY TYNDALL / “Dirt Road to Hell”
Writers: Kasey Tyndall/Faren Rachels/Gary Garris/Josh Mirenda/Nick Columbia/Reid Haughton; Producer: Derek Wells; Label: River House Artists
– He’s been fooling around, and boy is she pissed off. The country rocker blazes with fiery attitude. The track is thunderous and overwhelming.

CARLY PEARCE / “Country Music Made Me Do It”
Writers: Carly Pearce/Josh Osborne/Shane McAnally; Producers: Carly Pearce/Josh Osborne/Shane McAnally; Label: Big Machine Records
– Charming. This lilting, endearing performance is an ode to the soundtrack of her life, and Pearce sings every note with truth and authenticity. She was born to wear a country crown.

RHIANNON GIDDENS / “Too Little, Too Late, Too Bad”
Writers: Rhiannon Giddens/Dirk Powell; Producer: Jack Splash; Label: Nonesuch
– Giddens takes a left turn and attempts Aretha-style soul music. She doesn’t really have the voice for it. Pass.

OLD DOMINION & MEGAN MORONEY / “Can’t Break Up Now”
Writers: none listed; Producers: none listed; Label: Sony Music Nashville
– Nicely done. The voices blend well on this well-crafted power ballad about how two souls are too intertwined to separate. It might not be hit material, but it’s smooth listening all the way.

HEARTLAND / “No Tomorrow”
Writers: Brett Beavers/Adam Sanders/Jordan Schmidt; Producer: Jimmy Ritchie; Label: Yellowhammer
– Since the heyday of “I Loved Her First,” the group has acquired a new lead singer. This live-for-today anthem is their first new single in more than 10 years. On it, the band’s harmonies are still potent, and the production is just as polished as ever. Well worth your spins.

JESSI COLTER / “Standing on the Edge of Forever”
Writer: Jessi Colter; Producer: Margo Price; Label: Appalachia Record Co.
– This is a snappy, gospel-ish country rocker with cool wah-wah guitar, soul-sister backing vocals, organ-piano underpinning and an echoey lead vocal. A welcome return for the legendary, outlaw-country queen.

MORGAN WADE / “Fall In Love With Me”
Writer: Morgan Wade; Producer: Sadler Vaden; Label: Ladylike Records/RCA Nashville
– Bopping and cheerful. It makes falling in love sound like the easiest, most pleasant thing in the world. The video is a smiling, erotic outing featuring Wade as a seductress.

RUSSELL DICKERSON & FLO RIDA / “Beauty and the Beach”
Writers: Russell Dickerson/Ashley Gorley/Jon Nite/Ben Johnson; Producers: Ben Johnson/Johnny Reno; Label: Triple Tigers
– Dickerson’s current single is the ultra-country romance tune “God Gave Me A Girl.” This new tempo track has a hip-hop collaborator, but you can’t take the country outta this guy. A summertime good time.

BILLY RAY CYRUS & FIREROSE / “Plans”
Writer: Diane Warren; Producer: Justin Morgan; Label: Kind Music Group
– This wooshy, romantic pop ballad is pretty much a female solo performance with barely-there vocal backing by the Nashville star.

WILL HOGE & BLACK OPRY / “Can I Be Country Too?”
Writer: Will Hoge; Producer: Will Hoge; Label: EDLO Records
– Hoge’s chorus collaborators here are The Kentucky Gentlemen, Michael Allen, Cheryl Deseree, Carmen Dianne and the Any Way Collective. Everyone takes a turn on the lyric, which asks for inclusion and tolerance. If you read literature, don’t drive a pickup truck, can’t watch college football, aren’t a practicing Christian, vote Democratic, believe that Black Lives Matter, don’t drink beer on a tailgate, eat sushi rather than steak and are okay with gay marriage, can you still be “country?” Very catchy and very jolly. Proceeds benefit MusiCares.

OLD CROW MEDICINE SHOW & SIERRA FERRELL / “Belle Meade Cockfight”
Writers: Ketch Secor/Mason Via/Matt Ross-Spang; Producers: Old Crow Medicine Show/Matt Ross-Spang/Sally Williams; Label: ATO Records
– Old Crow had a blow-out album-release party at the new Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery this week. The collection is titled Jubilee. This fabulously hillbilly track from it features dynamic show-woman Ferrell kicking up her heels on a winking, hilarious hoedown with the Opry’s star string band. A bluegrassy, old-timey delight.