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

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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’

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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’

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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’

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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.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Jordan Davis Sells His ‘Busted-Heart Song Like Gangbusters’

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The dudes are dueling on the country music scene today.

Cody Johnson, Dalton Dover, Alex Miller, Vince Gill and Darius Rocker all vied for the Disc of the Day award. Taking the subtle, sad, emotionally shaded route, Jordan Davis wins it.

The ladies were not without firepower. Ashley McBryde and Priscilla Block, in particular, are essential. Colorado native Sophia Scott wins the DISCovery Award.

DALTON DOVER / “Night to Go”
Writers: Cole Taylor/Trea Landon/Shane Minor/Michael Carter; Producer: none listed; Label: Mercury Nashville
– This youngster has already proved himself to be a masterful country balladeer, a story-song teller, a heartache prince and a heart-tugging sentimentalist. Well, whaddya know? He can also spit out a country rocker with the best of ‘em: this kicks hillbilly butt. More proof that stardom should knock on his door.

CODY JOHNSON / “The Painter”
Writers: Benjy Davis/Kat Higgins/Ryan Larkins; Producer: Trent Willmon; Label: Warner Music Nashville/COJO Music 
– Beautifully country. Kinda poetic, kinda romantic, kinda stirring, kinda cool. He remains a supreme vocal stylist, and the gently thumping bass undertow gives this all the juice it needs. An instant favorite.

ALEX MILLER / “Girl, I Know a Guy”
Writers: Walt Aldridge/Tim Rushlow/Danny Orton; Producer: Jerry Salley; Label: Billy Jam Records
– This perfectly marries bluegrassy instrumental touches with baritone honky-tonk vocal phrasing. All the pieces fit—top-notch production, stellar songwriting, heartfelt hillbilly vibe. Sweet yet twanging. Alex strikes again.

PRISCILLA BLOCK / “Fake Names”
Writers: Priscilla Block/Alysa Vanderheym/Summer Overstreet/Audra Mae; Producers: Robbie Artress/Justin Johnson/Jake Curry; Label: UMG/InDent
– The weekend pseudonyms allow her to go “bat-shit crazy.” Meanwhile, the track rocks with gusto behind her. This party princess always delivers the goods. If you haven’t done so, also check out her cheeky “Thick Thighs.”

SOPHIA SCOTT / “Lipstick On You”
Writers: Sophia Scott/Adam Yaron/Blake Hubbard/Zack Dryer/Jarrod Ingram/Malia Civetz; Producer: Adam Yaron; Label: Empire
– Sultry and soul-tinged, she sings with a husky, throaty and totally ear-catching manner. Add some blues to your playlist with this dandy, stately lament.

JORDAN DAVIS / “Tuscon Too Late”
Writers: Jordan Davis/Jacob Davis/Josh Jenkins/Matt Jenkins; Producer: Paul DiGiovanni; Label: MCA Nashville
– Quite well written. The gently rolling tempo and his expressively resigned delivery sell this busted-heart song like gangbusters. I love a good, sad, country tune, and this one’s a pip. Classic, classy stuff.

DENNIS QUAID / “Fallen”
Writer: Dennis Quaid; Producers: David Ferguson/Ben Isaacs/Chris Lindsey; Label: Gaither Music Group
– He’s famous for being an actor, but Quaid remains a Texan through and through. The title tune of his new gospel album has a dusty, earthy, bluesy quality. The minor key melody allows him to express its “riding with the Devil” vibe dramatically. A gripping and compelling prodigal-son’s journey through substance abuse and redemption.

NATALIE GRANT & DOLLY PARTON / “Step By Step”
Writers: Annie Lennox; Producers: Bernie Herms; Label: Curb Records
– Gospel queen Grant and country goddess Parton try on some soul-sister clothes for this pop outing. It’s a Whitney Houston oldie. They both sound like they are trying a bit too hard to measure up.

VINCE GILL & PAUL FRANKLIN / “Sweet Memories”
Writers: Mickey Newbury; Producers: Vince Gill/Paul Franklin; Label: MCA Nashville
– This is the title tune of this team’s tribute album to Ray Price. Franklin’s steel is poetry on the ballad, and Gill’s vocal is, as usual, awesome. The gorgeous weeper became a country classic thanks to a 1969 Dottie West/Don Gibson duet and a 1979 top-10 hit for Willie. Now is its time to shine for a new generation of listeners.

DARIUS RUCKER / “Have a Good Time”
Writers: Bobby Hamrick/Darius Rucker/Derek George/Monty Criswell; Producer: Frank Rogers; Label: Capitol Nashville
– Built-in smiles are on the menu of this jaunty ditty. The message is to enjoy today, because we’re not guaranteed tomorrow—sunsets, brewski’s, lovin,’ relaxin,’ back-porch chillin’ and taking life as it comes in the here-and-now.

DAVID J / “Traffic on a Backroad”
Writers: David J/Beau Bailey/Lukas Klingensmith; Producer: Danny Majik; Label: Grey Area Entertainment/Sony Music Nashville
– He wants to steam up the windows with the car in Park and the seats tilted back. It has an electronic pop track and hip-hop beats. Fine. Now can someone tell me what is “country” about this?

ASHLEY McBRYDE / “Cool Little Bars”
Writers: Ashley McBryde/Trick Savage/Lainey Wilson; Producer: Jay Joyce; Label: Warner Music Nashville
– This woman is driving me crazy with anticipation of her The Devil I Know collection. It isn’t due until next month, and she keeps teasing it with dynamite advances. In addition to the brilliant “Light on in the Kitchen,” they include this wonderful ode to the dirty little dives we love. These “holes in the wall for lost souls” with their jukeboxes, shuffleboards, cigarettes, carved-up tabletops, tip jars and two-for-one drink specials need to be cherished. As if her singing and the songwriting weren’t brilliant enough, this has the most marvelous, crunchy, rocking-acoustic track on God’s green earth.

RESTLESS ROAD / “Roll Tide Roll”
Writers: Zach Beeken/Garrett Nichols/Kyle Sturrock; Producer: none listed; Label: RCA Nashville/1021 Entertainment
– Football season can’t come soon enough for this trio on its harmony-soaked ballad. They need “Roll Tide Roll” to wash away the heartache. The debut Restless Road album, Last Rodeo, is coming on October 20. Judging by what I’ve heard from these guys so far, it’s bound to be a grand listening experience.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Exile Impresses With First Radio Single In More Than 30 Years

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This is a day for legends, comebacks and new beginnings.

In this country edition of DISClaimer, you’ll find old friends T.G. Sheppard, The Oak Ridge Boys, Travis Tritt, Exile, Beth Nielsen Chapman and Cindy (now Cidny) Bullens. They fit in just fine among tunes by Mitchell Tenpenny, William Michael Morgan, Cooper Alan, Megan Moroney and Darrell Scott.

The Disc of the Day prize goes to the Exile comeback single, “Rough Around the Edges.” This week’s DISCovery Award goes to Emily Ann Roberts.

EMILY ANN ROBERTS / “Infinity”
Writers: Emily Ann Roberts/Stephanie Chapman; Producer: Trent Willmon; Label: EAR
– She has a helluva voice and isn’t shy about pushing it into the stratosphere on this shimmering ballad. It’s a melodic vow of devotion that has definite wedding-song potential. Highly recommended.

MITCHELL TENPENNY / “Bigger Mistakes”
Writers: Mitchell Tenpenny/Chris DeStefano/Josh Kear/Michael Whitworth/Jeff Braun; Producers: Mitchell Tenpenny/Jordan Schmidt; Label: Riser House/Columbia Records
– Very clever. He’s not wallowing in heartbreak, because she really wasn’t The One, anyhow. “I’ve made bigger mistakes than you,” he sings defiantly to her. There’s a fine vocal performance here, and it’s wrapped up in a beautifully layered production. Nicely done, bro.

TRAVIS TRITT / “When God Dips His Love In My Heart”
Writer: Cleavant Derricks; Producer: Dave Cobb; Label: Gaither Music Group
– Country Chapel, Tritt’s debut gospel album, drops next month. Its lead track is also its advance single. The soulful stylist takes this 80-year-old chestnut out for a country-rock spin, cranking the tempo, adding a snappy electric guitar solo and featuring unmistakable quartet harmonies by The Oak Ridge Boys.

JON LANGSTON / “Heart On Ice”
Writers: Hunter Phelps/Jake Mitchell/Jordan Gray/Nick Columbia; Producers: Jody Stevens/Brad Wagner; Label: EMI Nashville
– You will seek in vain for a melody or any kind of lyric beyond the title phrase.

HARPER GRACE / “Down In My Hometown”
Writers: Alex Kline/Harper Gruzins/Kyle Jacobs/Michael Farren; Producers: Alex Kline/Cooper Bascom; Label: Curb
– This touches on most of the cliches—bonfire, open field, hometown, beer, party. She missed pickup truck, patriotism and swimming hole.

T.G. SHEPPARD WITH LORRAINE JORDAN & CAROLINA ROAD / “I Loved ‘Em Every One”
Writer: Bill Sampson; Producer: none listed; Label: Pinecastle Records
– Sheppard’s 1981 hit gets a pleasing bluegrass makeover. The two acts previously teamed up on a far better song of his, “Do You Wanna Go to Heaven.”

MEGAN MORONEY / “I’m Not Pretty (Acoustic)”
Writers: Megan Moroney/Ben Williams/Mackenzie Carpenter/Micah Carpenter; Producer: Kristian Bush; Label: Columbia Records
– I reviewed this dandy song a few months back. Now the fan favorite has a new, stripped-down version that brings out the mean-girl lyric even more. One of the first country songs to mention Instagram will be released to radio next week.

WILLIAM MICHAEL MORGAN / “In Walked You”
Writers: Shane McAnally/Josh Osborne/Ross Copperman; Producer: Keith Stegall; Label: ONErpm
– This stellar neo-traditionalist returns with another solidly country outing. Due on Aug. 11, this performance confirms him as a leading artist of this style. Check out the songwriting and production credits. Count me in, for sure.

REYNA ROBERTS / “One Way Street”
Writers: Reyna Roberts/Natalie Stovall/Aaron Wagner; Producer: Aaron Wagner; Label: ReynaRed Records/Empire
– The fiery stylist blazes brightly on this scorching number of romantic confusion. It is pitched slightly too high for her range.

COOPER ALAN / “Never Not Remember You”
Writers: Cooper Alan/Seth Mosley/Victoria Shaw; Producer: Victoria Shaw; Label: Cooped Up Records
– This man has over 10 million social media followers. They embraced this long before its official release date this week. The song manages to find uplift even in the midst of painful grief. We all go through loss at some point in our lives, and like all great country music, this helps you understand and accept it.

CIDNY BULLENS & BETH NIELSEN CHAPMAN / “Not With You”
Writers: Cidny Bullens/Beth Nielsen Chapman; Producer: Ray Kennedy; Label: Kill Rock Stars
– Bullens is known as a rocker, and Chapman is a pop artist. But together they found twang and a newfound country/Americana direction with this scintillating, romantic duet performance. Well worth your spins. It is a track from Little Pieces, the album coming-out for Bullens as a trans man. He’ll be showcasing at the Americana convention next month.

EXILE / “Rough Around the Edges”
Writers: Les Taylor/Larry Cordle/J.P. Pennington; Producers: J.P. Pennington/Sonny LeMaire; Label: Clearwater Records
– The band’s first new radio single in more than 30 years is a frothing rocker that shows the veteran act’s spit and fire are undimmed by time. The tempo is in overdrive, the guitars stutter mightily, keyboards sizzle and the vocals wail. And if you listen closely, the lyric is as cute as all get out. I love this.

THE DARRELL SCOTT STRING BAND / “Kentucky Morning”
Writer: Darrell Scott; Producer: Darrell Scott; Label: Full Light/The Orchard
– This is the story of the many who left the Bluegrass State in search of factory work in Detroit and Chicago, only to yearn for home. One of them leaves the assembly line in the middle of the graveyard shift to hop on a train headed south. It’s a soulful, bluegrassy ballad with gorgeous fiddle and mandolin work by Scott’s bandmates. Scott is a gifted songwriter with “You’ll Never Leave Harlan Alive,” “Born to Fly,” “It’s a Great Day to Be Alive,” “Long Time Gone” and more under his belt. And now this. The song teases Old Cane Back Rocker, his first album since 2016. It drops on Aug. 11. I can’t wait.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Chris Stapleton Once Again Confirms His ‘Bonfire Intensity As A Performer’

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Chris Stapleton. Photo: Becky Fluke

DISClaimer is really mixing it up this week.

We have hip-hopper Tanner Adell, bluegrassy Hailey Whitters, rocking Lanco and balladeers Adam Doleac and Luke Grimes. Black female country speaks up in an excellent effort from Tiera Kennedy. Cody Hibbard is an Asian Pacific American and his hard-country approach wins him a DISCovery Award.

Hibbard was not without competition, since the other newcomers today who turned in solid efforts included Peyton Aldridge, Zoee and The Mizes.

With Chris Stapleton in the lineup, do you even need to ask who owns the Disc of the Day award?  

LANCO / “Sound of a Saturday Night”
Writers: Brandon Lancaster/Tripp Howell/Jeremy Spillman/Tate Howell; Producer: Jay Joyce; Label: Riser House
– Punchy and rocking. This is a summertime romp to crank up with the windows rolled down on a moonlight cruise down a back road. I’d have put more bottom in the mix, but you can’t beat the energy generated by this sound. 

BRETT YOUNG / “Let Go Too Soon”
Writers: Brett Young/Chris LaCorte/Jon Nite; Producer: Dann Huff; Label: BMLG Records
– “Dance With You” remains the single, but here’s another foretaste of Young’s Across the Sheets collection, which drops Aug. 4. On this pleasing midtempo track, he muses about a relationship that might have ended before either one of them was ready to move on. His intimate-sounding singing voice is deployed to great affect here. The too-busy backing track is fortunately mixed far enough back so as not to interfere.

HAILEY WHITTERS / “I’m In Love”
Writers: Nicole Galyon/Lee Thomas Miller/Cameron Bedell; Producers: Jake Gear/Hailey Whitters; Label: Pigasus/Big Loud/Songs & Daughters
– ACM New Female Artist of the Year Whitters returns with the delightfully zippy title tune of her new EP (which also includes her breakthrough hit “Everything She Ain’t”). The track bubbles along merrily while she expresses the dizzy, ditzy mood of a star-struck country gal. Totally lovable. 

CHRIS STAPLETON / “White Horse”
Writers: Chris Stapleton/Dan Wilson; Producers: Dave Cobb/Morgane Stapleton/Chris Stapleton; Label: Mercury Nashville
– His voice is such a torrent of sound that he can make your heart beat faster without hardly trying. This fiery single blurs the lines between country and southern rock while confirming his bonfire intensity as a performer. Undeniable. 

TIERA KENNEDY / “Jesus, My Mama, My Therapist”
Writers: Tiera Kennedy/Emily Falvey/Joe Fox/Trannie Anderson/Emily Landis; Producer: Cameron Bedell; Label: The Valory Music Co.
– As clever as it is catchy. Everyone in town gossips way too much, so the only people she can tell about her busted heart are the three named in the title. The track boasts stuttering rockabilly guitar, loads of happy rhythm and a cheeky vibe that are all irresistible. Her saucy vocal is perfect. To my knowledge, this is the first country song with “therapist” in the title. So cute.

CODY HIBBARD / “We Speak Country”
Writers: Carlton Anderson/Kasey Tyndall/Logan Wall; Producers: Jim Catino/Julian King; Label: Droptine Recordings
– What a breath of fresh air. A for-real country singer with a for-real country song. The thumping rhythm track is joyous. The blue-collar lyric is rousing and anthemic. This would sound splendid as an award-show opening number. 

PEYTON ALDRIDGE / “Oh Yeah”
Writers: John Ramey/Jeffrey East; Producer: Russ Zavitson; Label: Puba Records
– This competitor on The Voice combines blues and twang on his new single. The song’s a funky little thing, but doesn’t have a lot of meat on its bones. 

ZOEE / “Whatever It Takes”
Writers: Zoee/James House/Stone Aielli; Producers: Zoee/James House; Label: Zoee
– This new Nashvillian hails from Tasmania, Australia. She has a strong, assured country-pop vocal presence with plenty of depth. This single and its parent album Waves both drop a week from tomorrow, so be prepared for a slap of driving rhythm and some wildly catchy melody. The crisp production is superb. A star has started to twinkle. 

TANNER ADELL / “Buckle Bunny”
Writers: Tanner Adell/Jesse Thomas/Cameron Bartolini/Louis Bartolini/Leelee/Sean Anthony; Producers: Leelee/Cambo/Louallday; Label: Columbia Records
– This mix of country and trap drops vaguely country/cowgirl images in a production that blends rapping with looped electronics and country-tinged instrumentation. Lyrically, it is utter nonsense. But enjoyable.

LUKE GRIMES / “Hold On”
Writers: Ilsey Juber/Foy Vance; Producer: Dave Cobb; Label: UMG Nashville
– Low-key and downbeat, this has an attractive, meditative quality that is soothing to the ears. Like the song, his voice kinda sneaks up on you. Grimes has a fan base from being in the Yellowstone TV cast. But I fear he’s going to have to come up with a song that is more undeniable than this drowsy one is. 

THE MIZES / “Hitched Up”
Writers: Logan Mize/Jill Martin; Producer: Daniel Agee; Label: LM
– Solo artist Logan Mize is now also a duet act with his wife, Jill Martin. Their debut single is a hilarious twangfest about a Venus-and-Mars couple. It recalls the funny-fight masterpieces created by Loretta & Conway, Porter & Dolly and George & Tammy. If I were in charge, this would go straight to the top of every hillbilly playlist. 

ADAM DOLEAC / “Biggest Fan”
Writers: Adam Doleac/Abe Stoklasa/Andy Skib/Sarah Buxton; Producer: Andy Skib; Label: Sony Music Nashville
– The man can sing. This melodic ballad glows with romance and emotional intimacy. The soul-music touches in the production and eloquently tasteful guitar solo are exquisite additions to the mood. Lend this man your ears.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Chris Young Channels Summer Vibes On New Track

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Hot enough for you?

The country stars are fully in tune with summertime this week.

Efforts by Dan + Shay, Hardy, Mickey Guyton & Kane Brown, Lionel Cartwright, Uncle Kracker and Travis Denning sound custom made for warm weather.

The most summer-sounding of all is Chris Young, who wins the Disc of the Day award.

Newcomers? We’ve got ‘em, with Christian Parker, Whitney Miller and our DISCovery Award winner Cassandra Davis all lending their voices to the vacation season.

O.N.E. THE DUO / “Superpower”
Writers: Shane Stevens/Nash Overstreet; Producer: Nash Overstreet; Label: Visionary Media Group
– Being a woman is a superpower sez the mother-daughter duo. It’s a charming single, but it would sound a lot more “country” if it had some actual musical instruments in the production instead of just electronic loops.

HARDY / “Truck Bed”
Writers: Ashley Gorley/Michael Hardy/Hunter Phelps/Ben Johnson; Producers: Joey Moi/Derek Wells/Hardy/Ben Johnson; Label: Big Loud Records/Big Loud Rock
– She’s kicked him out, so now he wakes up “on the wrong side of the truck bed” in the front yard. Now he has to go to work with a hangover. Instruments twang merrily, the gang sings along and a goofball vibe reigns supreme.

CAYLEE HAMMACK / “That Dog”
Writers: Caylee Hammack/Jake Mitchell/Aaron Raitiere; Producers: Caylee Hammack/Dann Huff; Label: Capitol Nashville
– The fiery redhead is totally over him, but she misses the dog. Sassy and spirited.

CHRIS YOUNG / “Young Love & Saturday Nights”
Writers: Ashley Gorley/Jesse Frasure/Josh Thompson/David Bowie; Producers: Chris Young/Corey Crowder/Chris DeStafano; Label: RCA
– The melody quotes “Rebel Rebel” by David Bowie, but this uptempo romp is country all the way. It’s a joyous celebration of old trucks, small towns, radio tunes and necking in the parking lot. Roll down the windows and crank it up on a carefree weekend.

CASSANDRA LEWIS / “Too Much”
Writers: none listed; Producer: Dave Cobb; Label: Elektra/Low Country Sounds
– My ears perked right up. This Portland, Oregan singer-songwriter will kick off her new album with this soul ballad. It’s a stately heartbreak outing with a spare arrangement that frames an extraordinary vibrato-vocal performance. She aims for the stratosphere and then soars above it. A remarkable, singular talent.

DAN + SHAY / “Save Me the Trouble”
Writers: Jordan Reynolds/Ashley Gorley/Dan Smyers/Shay Mooney/Jordan Minton; Producers: Dan Smyers/Scott Hendricks; Label: Warner Music Nashville
– She’s a heartbreak waiting to happen, so this power ballad throws down a warning. As we have come to expect, the singing here is simply excellent. The layered harmonies and understated production both work splendidly. Hit bound.

WHITNEY MILLER / “Nobody”
Writers: Hailey Nicole Verhaalen/Kelly Anne Seidel/Makena Hartlin; Producer: none listed; Label: Whitney Miller Music
– Smoldering and sensuous. She’s in a fever dream that he’s being unfaithful, so electric guitars echo and swirl around her steamy, smoky vocal. Miller is a former Miss United States (2012) who is also a mixed martial arts fighter and kickboxing commentator. Her singing is a tough as she is.

MICKEY GUYTON & KANE BROWN / “Nothing Compares to You”
Writers: Tyler Hubbard/Bebe Rexha/Jordan Schmidt; Producers: Tyler Hubbard/Jordan Schmidt; Label: Capitol Records Nashville
– They sound pretty good together, his plaintive, roughshod delivery contrasting nicely with her sunny, scintillating soprano. The slow-burn, bluesy tune gives Mickey, in particular, plenty of room to vamp and improvise. Smooth listening.

BRANDON DAVIS / “Still Gonna Be”
Writers: Brandon Davis/Daniel Agee/Joe Ragosta; Producers: Daniel Agee; Label: Big Yellow Dog Music
– He sings with passion, but the song isn’t worth the effort.

UNCLE KRACKER / “Reason to Drink”
Writers: Matthew Shafer/Blair Daly/Troy Verges; Producer: none listed; Label: UK
– A summertime party song. You’ll feel like you’re heard it before.

TRAVIS DENNING / “Things I’m Going Through”
Writers: Matt Mulhare/Jordan Dozzi; Producers: Jeremy Stover/Paul DiGiovanni; Label: Mercury Nashville
– He’s so relatable. He delivers this heartbroken meditation in a conversational, everyman voice that worms its way right into ya. The little details in the lyric are really cool. I remain a big fan.

LIONEL CARTWRIGHT / “Sleepwalking”
Writer: Lionel Cartwright; Producer: Lionel Cartwright; Label: Soul Mine Recordings
– Totally groovy. The gentle, mellow track is embellished with his tasty guitar licks, and the tune sways like a hammock on a summer afternoon. The creamy, dreamy, romantic mood is pure pleasure. This veteran hit maker still has the goods. Seek this ultimately enjoyable single out now. You can thank me later.

CHRISTIAN PARKER / “Hickory Wind”
Writers: Gram Parsons/Bob Buchanan; Producer: none listed; Label: CP
– Parker’s album Sweethearts drops on August 18. It is his tribute to the seminal 1968 Byrds country-rock masterpiece Sweethearts of the Rodeo. This single from it comes out tomorrow (July 21), and it’s a dandy remake of Gram Parsons’ timelessly eloquent waltz. Lilting and lovely. In addition to all the songs on the original album, the collection contains versions of “I Still Miss Someone,” “Satisfied Mind” and “Truck Store Truck Drivin’ Man.” Highly recommended.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Hannah Dasher Creates A ‘Fabulous Sonic Slab’

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Hannah Dasher. Photo: Jeremy Ryan

Is it just me, or is there more new blood in country music than ever these days?

Vying for our attention this week are such up-and-comers as Ashley Cooke, Warren Zeiders, Nate Smith, War Hippies, Hannah Dasher, Dylan Marlowe and Elvie Shane. The Disc of the Day contenders are Cooke, Shane, Chase Rice, Lukas Nelson & Lainey Wilson, Sam Hunt and our winner, Hannah Dasher.

We have no actual newcomers today, but I would like to point out the presence of at least three previous DisCovery Award winners—Nate Smith, War Hippies and Hannah Dasher.

CHASE RICE / “Bad Day to Be a Cold Beer”
Writers: Blake Pendergrass/Chase Rice/John Byron/Justin Thomas; Producer: Oscar Charles; Label: BBR
– Announcing THE drinking song of 2023. This rollicking romper is a working man’s anthem, a party-hearty banger and a kick-butt production all wrapped up in hillbilly delight. Turn it up.

NATE SMITH / “World On Fire”
Writers: Ashley Gorley/Lindsay Rimes/Nate Smith/Taylor Phillips; Producer: Lindsay Rimes; Label: Arista Nashville
– The metaphor doesn’t really work for me, but even if the lyrics are nonsense, this is a spectacularly charismatic vocal performance. The track is molten-rock hot.

HANNAH DASHER / “(I’m the One That Taught Him) That Thing You Like”
Writers: Hannah Dasher/Brandon Hood/Wynn Varble; Producers: none listed; Label: HD
– Witty, bluesy and twanging. She takes the new girlfriend aside to let her know just how intimately she knows the boy on this unreleased track. A fabulous sonic slab. I remain a massive fan.

DYLAN MARLOWE / “Dirt Road When I Die”
Writers: Dylan Marlowe/Joe Fox; Producer: Joe Fox; Label: Sony Music Nashville
– Downbeat, borderline depressing and a little confusing. Okay, after we take you down that dirt road, what do you want us to do with your body? Bury it? Burn it? Leave it out in the sun in the back of that pickup truck?

ASHLEY COOKE / “Your Place”
Writers: Ashley Cooke/Jordan Minton/Mark Trussell; Producer: Jimmy Robbins; Label: Big Loud Records/Back Blocks Music
– This lady sure can write ‘em and sing ‘em. This track from her forthcoming (July 21) debut album sets some definite boundaries for her ex. Her current situation is none of his damn bizness. This is an artist you need to be listening to.

WARREN ZEIDERS / “Pretty Little Poison”
Writers: Ryan Beaver/Jared Keim/Warren Zeiders; Producer: Ross Copperman; Label: Warner Records
– This is his upcoming album’s title tune and lead single. He sings it with passion, but the track drags and the song’s tone is unrelentingly monochromatic.

LUKAS NELSON & POTR WITH LAINEY WILSON / “More Than Friends”
Writer: Lukas Nelson; Producers: Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real; Label: 6 Ace Records
– His Sticks and Stones album drops tomorrow and the record-release party is tonight at The Nashville Palace. This track from it is a boatload of pleasure—two great voices, one funky country band and a hearty, good-time song. What’s not to love? Lukas gets better and better with each release, and Lainey blends with him perfectly as the icing on this cake. A breezy summer outing.

DIAMOND RIO / “The Kick”
Writers: Carson McKee/Dana Williams/Daniel Thomas Truman/James W. Olander/Marty Roe/Micah Schweinsberg; Producer: James W. Olander; Label: Rio Hot Records
– An instrumental! This is a country category that seems to have died years ago, but leave it to Diamond Rio to revive it with this sizzling jam. Drummer Brian Prout and multi-instrumentalist Gene Johnson have retired after 33 years in the band. Their replacements, Micah Schweinsberg and Carson McKee, more than keep pace with group mainstays Dan Truman (keyboards), Jimmy Olander (lead guitar), Dana Williams (bass) and Marty Roe (rhythm guitar) on this lively outing. A welcome return.

GIRLS NEXT DOOR / “What’s This Thing You’ve Got About Leaving”
Writers: TW Hale/Roger Murrah; Producers: TW Hale/Tom Harding; Label: Girls Next Door Music
– After an absence of 30+ years, Cindy Nixon Psanos, Diane Williams Austin, Tammy Stephens Smith and Doris King Merritt have reunited as the Girls Next Door. The quartet initially made some noise with a flurry of singles on MTM Records in the late ‘80s. The group’s comeback single is a lively, bopping, good-vibes ditty that vividly shows that their creamy harmony blend is as flawless as ever. Nicely done, all around.

SAM HUNT / “Outskirts”
Writers: Sam Hunt/Zach Crowell/Jerry Flowers/Josh Osborne; Producers: Chris LaCorte/Shane McAnally/Sam Hunt; Label: MCA Nashville
– Regret, nostalgia, reflection and mourning for the love he threw away. Singing with the throttle wide open, Hunt has seldom sounded better. The song displays very classy craftsmanship. Totally a winner.

WAR HIPPIES / “The Hangman”
Writers: Donald E. Reis III/Scoot Edward Brown; Producer: Donnie Reis; Label: War Hippies
– This is a duo of military combat vets. The song is a haunting western-outlaw ballad about two lovers who are strung up, side-by-side. Complete with gunshot and galloping-horse sound effects. Imaginative, indeed.

ELVIE SHANE / “Baptized”
Writers: Elvie Shane/Dan Couch/Luke Preston/Oscar Charles; Producer: Oscar Charles; Label: Wheelhouse Records
– Simmering with gospel passion, this ode to a deep and sensuous love is downright riveting. Shane is one of our most talented and distinctive newcomers. Lend the “My Boy” singer your ears once again.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: David Nail & Jo Dee Messina Share The Disc Of The Day

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David Nail, Jo Dee Messina

Summer has arrived in full force on the country music scene.

As the temperature soars, the songs are cool. Especially from Jon Langston, Restless Road, Maddie & Tae, Track 45 and Kameron Marlowe. Tuneful, talented veterans Jo Dee Messina and David Nail share the Disc of the Day award this week.

Teenage multi-instrumentalist New Yorker David J takes home a DISCovery Award. Not necessarily for his debut disc, but for what I believe will be more accomplished outings in the future.

KAMERON MARLOWE & ERIN KIRBY / “I Can Lie (The Truth Is)”
Writers: Jordan Fletcher/Kameron Marlowe/Shane Minor; Producer: Dann Huff; Label: Columbia Nashville
– Magnificently country. This hard-core power ballad showcases one of our best new honky-tonk baritones. In an emotionally complex lyric, Kirby harmonizes and keeps pace, but this is Kameron Marlowe’s show all the way.

JO DEE MESSINA / “Just To Be Loved”
Writers: Jess Cates/Jordan Mohilowski/Tim Nichols/Jo Dee Messina; Producer: Jordan Mohilowski; Label: JDM
– Messina is having a moment, thanks to the revival of “Heads Carolina Tails California.” Her comeback single is a beautifully produced bopper with rippling mandolin, burbling bass, stacked vocals, crisp percussion and a breezy summertime vibe. Her voice remains as hearty and warm as ever. The lyric’s message about being true to yourself is lovely, too. So delightful sounding that I didn’t want it to end.

TRACK 45 / “Grew Up On”
Writers: Ben Johnson/Jenna Johnson/KK Johnson/Ashley Gorley/Jonathan Singleton/Taylor Phillips; Producers; Track 45; Label: Stoney Creek Records
– The three Johnson siblings wax nostalgic for their rural upbringing on this harmony soaked outing. The lilting melody has a soft, airy, gentle caress. Their deft plucking on bass, fiddle and guitar are the icing on this delicious cake.

BILLY CURRINGTON / “City Don’t”
Writers: Scooter Carusoe/Joshua Miller/Chris LaCorte; Producer: Carson Chamberlain; Label: Mercury Nashville
– He contrasts high-rise city living with country dirt road pleasures, and guess which one comes out on top? The sluggish track plods, and there’s nothing memorable about his lackadaisical delivery.

JON LANGSTON / “Whiskey Does”
Writers: Jon Langston/Brad Wagner/Cole Taylor/Jordan Gray; Producers: Jody Stevens/Jacob Rice/Brad Wagner; Label: EMI Nashville
– “She don’t love me anymore, but whiskey does.” There you have it. A broken heart, an empty glass, misery needs company, the whole hillbilly honky-tonk package. This guy has long been a favorite, and this old-school outing in a very imaginative production seals the deal. Play it again.

LAUREN ALAINA / “Just Wanna Know That You Love Me”
Writers: Brandy Clark/Joybeth Taylor/Sam Ellis; Producer: Joey Moi; Label: Big Loud
– The melodic ballad suits her style in that she repeats its title multiple times. She seems to specialize in this type of delivery—after all, it worked so well in that irritating, repetitive million seller “The Road Less Traveled.”

DAVID J / “Last Time”
Writers: Cate Downey/Danny Majic/David J; Producer: Danny Majic; Label: Sony Music Nashville/Grey Area Entertainment
– Paint-by-numbers, generic, forgettable, youthful country-pop. Surely he can do better.

MADDIE & TAE / “Heart They Didn’t Break”
Writers: Anna Vaus/Banjy Lashar Davis/Ryan Beaver; Producer: Corey Crowder; Label: Mercury Nashville
– Poignant and sweet/sad, with their gorgeous harmony blend front and center. A lilting steel solo and perfectly placed drum thumps support their pristine performance. Another gem from this steadfast team.

RESTLESS ROAD / “No Can Do “
Writers: Matt Jenkins/Jessi Alexander/Colton Pack/Garrett Nichols/Zachary Beeken/Jacob Rice; Producer: Jared Klein; Label: RCA Nashville/1021 Entertainment
– This is a dandy, upbeat summer jam. Why work when you can relax with a pop-top? A rollicking good time, complete with a mid-song “gang” vocal break.

KIDD G / “Lesson Learned”
Writers: Alex Maxwell/Jaxson Free/Jonathan Gabriel Horne; Producer: Dann Huff; Label: Rebel
– Acoustic, semi-spoken verses alternating with electric-guitar soaring choruses. Incongruous banjo plucking and thrashing percussion. It sounds like three different songs trying to mash together.

DAVID NAIL / “Silverado”
Writers: David Nail/Grant Vogel/Robyn Collins; Producer: Grant Vogel; Label: One Five Sound, LLC
– Let’s face it: The man was born to sing. And what woman could resist this come-on? He wants to take it slow, get to know her and ride off to unknown adventures in his truck. The echoey track takes on layer after lovely layer as this wafting, romantic ode unfurls.

DARRYL WORLEY / “Have We Forgotten”
Writers: Darryl Worley/Wynn Varble; Producer: Phil O’Donnell; Label: Valory Music Co.
– Worley’s update of his 9/11 hit “Have You Forgotten” addresses a politically divided nation. It asks us to remember when we could agree to disagree and work together for the common good. A timely call for togetherness. Its “united we stand” message is lighting up message boards.