DISClaimer Single Reviews: Brothers Osborne Give ‘A Message Of Inclusion For Both Sinners & Saints’

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Brothers Osborne. Photo: Natalie Osborne

What a dandy day—so many favorite artists all in one playlist.

I’ve been smiling throughout this listening sessions as I sample the latest from Rodney Crowell, Ashley McBryde, Marty Stuart and our Disc of the Day winners, Brothers Osborne.

The icing on the cake was the presence of several of my new faves—Jordyn Shellhart, Tyler Booth, Ian Munsick and Alex Hall.

Offering his disc debut is Jake Ybarra, who earns a DisCovery Award.

TYLER BOOTH / “Bring on the Neon”
Writers: Tyler Booth/Jamey Johnson/Jeremy Popoff; Producer: Beau Bedford; Label: Sony
– Superb. This instant-classic country weeper simmers in piano and steel while Booth’s always-awesome baritone delivers the emotional goods. Regret and heartache have seldom sounded better. I remain a fan.

CIMARRON 615 / “High Lonesome Stranger”
Writers: Michael Alan Ward/Richard Alan Lonow; Producer: Cimarron 615; Label: KZZ
– Comprised of Bill Lloyd (of Foster & Lloyd, solo outings and Sky Kings fame) with former Poco members Tom Hampton, Rick Lonow, Michael Webb and Jack Sundrud, this all-star group takes its name from one of Poco’s best albums, Rose of Cimarron. The sound is stunningly accomplished, featuring creamy, SoCal, country-rock harmonies with bluegrassy instrumentation and heart-pumping rhythm. The lyric salutes country greats who were gone too soon. Hearty listening.

BROTHERS OSBORNE / “Nobody’s Nobody”
Writers: John Osborne/TJ Osborne/Mike Elizondo/Kendell Marvel; Producer: Mike Elizondo; Label: EMI
– Stately, stomping, scintillating, searing and sensational. The moody, drama-laden vocal unspools a message of inclusion for both sinners and saints. Meanwhile, the band flavors the piping-hot track with buzz-saw guitars, chant-like harmonies and pounding percussion. These guys always deliver in spades.

JORDYN SHELLHART / “When Something’s Gotta Give”
Writers: Jordyn Shellhart/Marc Beeson/Allen Shamblin; Producer: Cameron Jaymes; Label: Warner
– A wistful soprano vocal wafts in an echoey atmosphere while soft steel, brushed percussion and tinkling piano provide a gentle background. A sad, dreamy ballad that wraps you in a cooling blanket of melancholy mist.

BRETT YOUNG / “Dance With You”
Writers: Brett Young/Joran Minton/Jimmy Robbins; Producers: Dan Huff/Jimmy Harnen; Label: BMLG
– Presenting the wedding-dance song of 2023. Ultra romantic, but with just the right touch of rhythmic undertow. A keeper.

KARLEY SCOTT COLLINS / “Brain on Love”
Writers: Karley Scott Collins/Summer Overstreet/Cameron Bartolini/Liam Kevany; Producer: Dann Huff; Label: Sony
– Bluesy and very cool. The minor-key melody is a swirling pleasure. Her darkly compelling, drawling voice will stop you in your tracks. The lyric’s hook is wicked clever. I’m in.

MARTY STUART & HIS FABULOUS SUPERLATIVES / “Sitting Alone”
Writers: Marty Stuart; Producers: Marty Stuart/Mick Conley/Chris Scruggs/Harry Stinson/Kenny Vaughan; Label: Snakefarm
– Hall of Famer Stuart is poised to release his first album in six years next month. The collection’s advance tracks, so far, are its “Altitude” title tune, the jingle-jangle “Country Star” and this Byrds-y country rocker. It’s a rhythmic rural blacktop roller with a joyous and contemplative atmosphere. An audio carnival ride.

ALEX HALL / “Side Effects of the Heart”
Writers: Alex Hall/Pete Good/AJ Babcock/Josh Osborne; Producers: Alex Hall/Pete Good; Label: Monument
– Happiness, loneliness, crying, laughing, hurt, bliss. Yes, all of these are “Side Effects of the Heart,” as Mr. Hall so eloquently explains in this highly listenable outing. The guitar slinger takes some dandy extended solos, but on this go ‘round, his expressive singing is equally in the spotlight. This could be a star-making single.

ASHLEY McBRYDE / “The Devil I Know”
Writers: Ashley McBryde/Jeremy Stover/Bobby Pinson; Producer: Jay Joyce; Label: Warner
– The dynamic production brilliantly alternates crashing rock with processed, a cappella vocal passages. Snarling electric guitar, slapped percussion, nervous acoustic strumming, chant-like support vocals and wild audio frothing make this a heart-stopping listening experience. The lyric is just as riveting—she’s a bar fly who resists changing her wayward ways. This woman rules.

JAKE YBARRA / “BloodFire”
Writer: Jake Ybarra; Producer: William Gawley; Label: Charlotte Avenue
– Kinda rumbling, kinda rockabilly, kinda outlaw, kinda groovy. It’s a tempo tale of a hard-headed devil who’s running down the wrong highway. This promising single is from Ybarra’s debut album, Something In the Water, which dropped last week.

IAN MUNSICK / “White Buffalo”
Writers: Ian Munsick/Jeremy Spillman/Randy Montana; Producers: Jeremy Spillman/Ian Munsick; Label: Warner
– Very open-spaces and “Out West” sounding with an unmistakably ghostly vibe. This title tune of Munsick’s new album is a haunting heartbreak lament that soars. I love the falsetto coyote yips.

RODNEY CROWELL / “Loving You Is the Only Way to Fly”
Writers: Rodney Crowell/Sarah Buxton/Jedd Hughes; Producer: Jeff Tweedy; Label: New West
– One of our consummate songwriting craftsmen returns with an album titled The Chicago Sessions and this lilting, ear-catching, yearning single/video. Tweedy’s pristine production is marvelous, with layered acoustic instruments, “answering” backing vocals by cowriter Hughes and perfectly shadowed soprano harmony by cowriter Buxton. In addition, Crowell remains an enormously expressive singer. Yet another feather in an already much decorated cap.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Tanya Tucker ‘Exudes Enduring Charisma’

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Tanya Tucker. Photo: Derrek Kupish

Superstars and baby acts mix and mingle in today’s DisClaimer.

Clocking in with star power are Darius Rucker, Cole Swindell, Jimmie Allen and Chris Janson. Outshining them all is country queen Tanya Tucker, who has the Disc of the Day.

Two newcomers are sharing the DisCovery Award. First, lend your ears to Curb’s American Idol alumnus Harper Grace and her superbly produced debut single. And for something completely different, check out the airy, wafting, folkie, Afro-pop delight of Peter One. Both are well worth your attention.

CONNOR SMITH/ “Creek Will Rise”
Writers: Connor Smith/Chris LaCorte/Chase McGill/Parker Welling; Producer: Zach Crowell; Label: The Valory Music Co.
– It’s a frothing rocker with plenty of twang in the production. There’s a certain processed quality about Smith’s vocal compression, but the overall vibe is fun and sexy.

TANYA TUCKER / “Kindness”
Writers: Tim Hanseroth/Phil Hanseroth; Producers: Brandi Carlile/Shooter Jennings; Label: Fantasy
– Pensive and powerful. The living legend exudes enduring charisma in this stunning, stirring performance. An echoey atmosphere surrounds her as she sings of a turbulent life yearning toward peace. It’s an advance track from her forthcoming Sweet Western Sound collection that reunites her with Carlile and Jennings. I love this woman’s style: She rode a magnificent black stallion on the streets of downtown Nashville this week to announce it, as well as her upcoming June 3-4 concerts at the Ryman. Oh, and one more thing: FINALLY she is going into the Country Music Hall of Fame, where she so richly and deservedly belongs. I have been wishing for this day for years.

LOGAN MIZE / “Bloodline”
Writers: Django Walker/Josh Hoge/Randy Montana; Producer: Daniel Agee; Label: Big Yellow Dog
– A small-town meditation about yer roots and branches. As always, Mize sings it with heart.

JIMMIE ALLEN / “Be Alright”
Writers: Jimmie Allen/Jason Evigan/Gian Stone/Castle; Producers: Gian Stone/Jason Evigan/Jimmie Allen; Label: Stoney Creek Records
– I dig this. It has a cool, funky groove that flows through a comforting song that’s like a gentle pat on the back. Allen’s on a roll. Well done, all.

CAYLEE HAMMACK / “History of Repeating”
Writers: Caylee Hammack/Ashley McBryde/Nicolette Hayford; Producers: Caylee Hammack/Dann Huff; Label: Capitol Records Nashville
– I’m always interested in whatever this fiery vocalist is singing. She is always just so compelling. This outing is a mid-tempo croon about a relationship that seems to be stuck in its troubles. Will somebody please make this woman the star she deserves to be?

DARIUS RUCKER / “Fires Don’t Start Themselves”
Writers: Dan Isbell/Ben Hayslip/Jacob Rice; Producer: Dann Huff; Label: Capitol Records Nashville
– It’s a romantic country come-on to get it on. “Gonna love you, baby, all night long,” he sings. “Turn the lights down low.” Fiddles and guitars scream in the background.

CHAPEL HART / “Welcome to Fist City”
Writers: Danica Hart/Devynn Hart/Trea Swindle; Producer: Jeffrey Glixman; Label: CH
– The feisty, fun trio continues its winning ways with this rollicking, lickety-split romp about the floozy Loretta sang about in 1968. Joyously, deliriously playable. Chapel Hart will include this on its new CD, Glory Days, which drops May 19. I, for one, will be buying it.

CHRIS JANSON / “All I Need Is You”
Writers: Ashley Gorley/Brad Clawson/Chris Janson/Mitch Oglesby; Producers: Julian Raymond/Chris Janson/Scott Borchetta; Label: BMLG Records
– The thumping, rolling groove is a delight. Janson delivers the romantic lyric with unforced baritone dips and mellow slides. His best performance in quite some time.

PETER ONE / “Birds Go Die Out of Sight (Don’t Go Home)” featuring Allison Russell
Writers Peter One; Producers: Peter One/Matt Ross-Spang; Label: Verve Forecast
– Country music is quite popular in West Africa. Peter One rose to stardom there 30 years ago. But political pressures led him to migrate from his Ivory Coast homeland to the U.S. He has been working in obscurity in Nashville as a nurse. Until now. Jason Isbell has taken him on tour, he’s been signed by Verve and at age 67 will issue his comeback album on May 5. This supremely pleasurable acoustic track from it features sighing harmonica, gently strummed guitar and an insistent, underlying sense of rhythm that is irresistible. The esteemed Allison Russell lends entrancing backing vocals. Essential listening. Peter One stages his Grand Ole Opry debut next weekend, on April 14. This, my friends, is a story worth sharing.

COLE SWINDELL / “Broken”
Writers: Cole Swindell/Chris LaCorte/Cole Taylor/Hillary Lindsey; Producer: Zach Crowell; Label: Warner Music Nashville
– The marvelously clever “Drinkaby” remains the single. But this multiple country chart-topper is amping up anticipation for his upcoming album with the release of this dandy tempo tune about healing a gal’s broken heart. It works, splendidly.

HARPER GRACE / “Sparkle”
Writers: Harper Grace/Alex Kline/Scott Stepakoff; Producers: Cameron Jaymes/Ben West; Label: Curb Records
– The crashing, choppy production is sensational. It bolsters a personality-packed vocal performance about a down-to-earth country woman. “A little rust on my heart….is just my kinda sparkle.” This is an excellent debut single that deserves massive attention.

JOSH ROSS / “Red Flags”
Writers: Chris Sligh/Josh Ross/Mason Thornley/Matt Geroux; Producer: Matt Geroux; Label: UMG
– Ross is a new country hitmaker in Canada. This hearty performance is a bid for Stateside success. The overall sound is somewhat generic, but he demonstrates serious chops as vocalist as he unspools his tale of a couple who just don’t belong together. Spin worthy.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Brandy Clark Proves Why She’s One Of ‘Our Greatest Living Country Songwriters’

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Brandy Clark. Photo: Victoria Stevens

Today’s country survey is dominated by our mainstream male up-and-comers, but the award winners come from left field.

From our enduringly creative songwriting community comes a stellar effort by Warner singer-songwriter Brandy Clark, who wins the Disc of the Day. Also representing this population is today’s Luke Laird release.

From outer space—or somewhere in Florida—comes Will Thompson, who is a triumphant DisCovery Award winner.

Also in the mix are two baseball tunes belonging to Bryan Ruby and Grant Gilbert, two star-confirming performances belonging to Randall King and Tyler Rich and two fine female-duo outings belonging to Tigirlily Gold and Rissi Palmer with Miko Marks.

WILL THOMPSON / “Checklist”
Writers: Ashley Watson/William Paul Grant Thompson; Producer: Will Thompson; Label: Will Thompson Music
– Full stop. Proceed no further. Go to YouTube. RIGHT NOW. This song and performance are priceless hilarity. It’s a brilliant satire of current country songwriting, the gist being that you can follow a checklist to write a hit. Ripe for skewering are hometown, boots, beer, county line, neon sign, dirt roads, bonfire, tailgate, back roads, whiskey, American flag, huntin’ & fishin,’ football game and more. “Sound just like a rap song,” Thompson advises. To write “The anthem of our lives….Words don’t even matter / Hit the chorus and they’ll sing along.” Furthermore, “Do auto tune / To make this a hit we need 10 writers in a room.” Oh, and wear sunglasses, get an accent, make your voice more gritty and “network in Nashville.” This thing is genius!

RISSI PALMER & MIKO MARKS / “Still Here”
Writers: Rissi Palmer/Miko Marks/Deanna L. Walker/Steve Wyreman/Justin Phipps; Producers: Steve Wyreman/Justin Phipps; Label: Rissi Palmer
– Palmer remains a shining light in the format with her “Color Me Country” radio series and a new American Masters: In the Making documentary on PBS. This anthem salutes the perseverance that her career illustrates. She’s been on the country scene since 2005, and as the song says, she’s still here. So is her duet partner, Miko Marks, who arrived around the same time. The two enduring country women of color are launching a historic tour together this year. They’ll be at City Winery on May 18.

BRANDY CLARK / “Buried “
Writers: Brandy Clark, Jessie Jo Dillon; Producer: Brandi Carlile; Label: Warner Records
– This is a stunning ballad of ache and loss by one of our greatest living country songwriters. Clark’s broken-hearted delivery is shadowed by gentle acoustic guitar plucking and soft vocal harmonies. Among the many brilliant touches in the writing is the artful placing of the song’s title as the song’s very last word. She is just so awesome. It’s an advance track from her forthcoming fourth album. With Shane McAnally, Clark is also the cowriter of the Broadway musical Shucked, which opens in New York on April 4. Last Sunday’s New York Times had an extensive piece about it.

BRANDON DAVIS / “Jesus and Jesse James”
Writers: Richard Brandon Davis, Clay Mills, Peter Daniel Newman; Producer: Daniel Agee; Label: Big Yellow Dog
– The country outlaw sentiment is fine, but the production is kinda thin. A little percussive bite would help.

TYLER RICH/ “I Know You Do”
Writers: Tyler Rich/Jaron Boyer/Micah Wilshire; Producer: Jaren Johnston; Label: The Valory Music Co.
– I like the reverb-twang guitar licks and the muffled thump in the percussion. As always, he’s a model country singer with plenty of heart-in-throat sincerity. The lyric of a loving yet complex relationship is a winner. In fact, it is his best yet.

ZAC BROWN BAND / “Paint It Black”
Writers: Mick Jagger/Keith Richards; Producer: Robert Deaton, Danny Rader; Label: Broken Bow Records
– The new Rolling Stones tribute CD Stoned Cold Country has a number of highlights. This is one of ‘em, since it gives this usually mellow band some rock edge. A beloved classic, thoroughly revived. Play it.

ANDREW JANNAKOS / “Meet My Maker”
Writers: Andrew Jannakos/Andrew Albert/Karen Kosowski/Emma-Lee; Producer: Derek Wells; Label: RCA Nashville
– “Ain’t no church like nature,” he sings in this wafting, lovely, pastoral ode. Amen, bro.

BRYAN RUBY / “Baseball Country “
Writers: Bryan Ruby/Chad Albert Sellers/Shane David Smith; Producers: Smith Curry; Label: Rubies In The Rough Music
– Play ball! Today is opening day in the major leagues. Ruby has crafted a rocking anthem designed for blasting over ballpark loudspeakers while teams take the field. He’s been professional ballplayer, himself, so he knows just how to get the dugout riled up.

GRANT GILBERT / “Take Me Out to the Bar”
Writers: Grant Gilbert/Brad Clawson/Blake Bollinger; Producers: Jonathan Singleton; Label: River House Artists
– Our second baseball-themed single of the week is just as dandy as “Baseball Country.” Gilbert’s got a busted heart, so he adopts the 1908 chestnut “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” as his new anthem, with re-written lyrics. The seventh-inning stretch was never so honky-tonking and fun.

RANDALL KING / “Green Eyes Blue”
Writers: Randall King/Randy Montana; Producers: Jared Conrad; Label: Warner Music Nashville
– One of my favorite current neo-traditionalists is back with a highly listenable romantic meditation. Deep-twang guitar and sighing steel back him as he muses about leaving his wild ways behind to fall in love. I remain a fan.

LUKE LAIRD, LORI McKENNA & BARRY DEAN / “Give Me Back My Hometown”
Writers: Luke Laird/Eric Church; Producers: Luke Laird/Lori McKenna/Barry Dean; Label: CN Records
– These three Music Row songwriting champs are issuing a collection called The Songwriter Tapes containing their versions of mega hits they’re written for others. The advance track is Laird’s gentle-voiced rendition of a hit he cowrote with the great Eric Church. He lacks the superstar’s fire and vocal charisma, but the soft, echoey production throws a real spotlight on the song’s marvelous lyrics.

TIGIRLILY GOLD / “Blonde”
Writers: Scott Stepakoff/Alex Kline/Kendra Jo Slaubaugh/Krista Jade Slaubaugh; Producers: Alex Kline; Label: Monument Records
– The feisty sister duo struts a sassy pace on the title tune of their new EP. Packed with delightful attitude, cool beats, tight harmonies, a Dolly shout-out and gal-pal sing-alongs. Highly recommended.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Luke Combs’ ‘Mighty Voice Is Unfurled In Majesty’

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Luke Combs. Photo: Jeremy Cowart

Is there a more country-music sounding first name than Luke? Discuss.

In the meantime, give a Disc of the Day award to Luke Combs and a DisCovery Award to Luke Grimes.

There’s a lot more to like in today’s country round-up. If you want to feel good about the genre again, I prescribe a listening session that includes Bailey Zimmerman, Carly Pearce, Tim Dugger and the two unrelated Evans folks, Morgan and Tony.

TIM DUGGER / “Buy a Bar”
Writers: Brandon Kinney/Josh Thompson; Producer: Brandon Hood; Label: Curb Records
Cleverly penned and a raucous ride. The video is wonderfully good humored and self deprecating. Recommended.

BAILEY ZIMMERMAN / “Religiously “
Writers: Alex Palmer/Austin Shawn/Bailey Zimmerman/Frank Romano/Marty James; Producers: Austin Shawn/Joel Bruyere; Label: Warner Music Nashville/Elektra
This heartache lament is the title tune of his forthcoming album. It’s his most expressive performance to date, full of the ache and woe of someone who has lost true love and won’t ever get it back.

CHARLES ESTEN / “One Good Move”
Writers: Charles Esten/Sam Backoff/Zarni DeVette/Elise Hayes; Producer: Marshall Altman; Label: none listed
The Nashville TV series alumnus is now on the hit Netflix series Outer Banks. But he continues to pursue his country-music dream in Music City. His latest begins as a soft piano ballad and builds to a super-melodic, oomphy, chesty anthem of loss and regret. Lend him your ears.

MARCUS MUMFORD & MAREN MORRIS / “Look at Us Now”
Writers: Marcus Mumford/Blake Mills; Producer: Blake Mills; Label: Atlantic
A sonic wonderland. It’s currently an Amazon exclusive that will hopefully get wider distribution.

ANN-MARGRET, T.G. SHEPPARD & PETE TOWNSEND / “Bye Bye Love”
Writers: Boudleaux Bryant/Felice Bryant: Producer: none listed; Label: Cleopatra Records
The vocals are compressed to the max, and the mix is muddy. But, hey, she’s a legend, so you know you want to hear it, right? T.G. holds up his end of the duet expertly. Townsend’s guitar gets in a few licks, especially in the finale. By the way, Ann-Margret began her recording career on Music Row.

DYLAN SCOTT & JASON CRABB / “Good Morning Mercy”
Writers: Jason Crabb/Jay DeMarcus/Caleb Ward/Jordan Ward; Producers: Jay DeMarcus; Label: Red Street Records
The song has already been a Christian-music hit for the electrifying Crabb. Teamed with Curb’s Scott, it gets a new lease on life. Crabb takes a high-harmony vocal while Scott holds down the melody, and both men take admirable solo spots.

LUKE COMBS / “5 Leaf Clover”
Writers: Luke Combs/Jessi Alexander/Chase McGill; Producers: Luke Combs/Chip Matthews/Jonathan Singleton; Label: River House/Columbia Nashville
His heart is in his throat on this beautiful song of gratitude and blessings. His mighty voice is unfurled in majesty as he soars professing love on the choruses. The production is wonderfully shaded and restrained. The new Combs album drops tomorrow, and that is where you’ll find this mini masterpiece.

THE HAMMOND BROTHERS / “Cap Guns and Skinny Horses”
Writers: Dale Hammond/Gale Hammonds; Producers: none listed; Label: Dynasty
Very enjoyable. Jangly and thumping with hearty heartland harmonies. A nostalgia-tinged reverie with warmth and spirit.”

CARLY PEARCE / “Should’ve Known Better – Live From Music City”
Writers: Carly Pearce/Jordan Reynolds/Emily Shackelton; Prodcuers: Carly Pearce/Dave Clauss; Label: Big Machine
I don’t usually review live tracks, but this is a special case — a superb country singer at the top of her game who sounds just as good in person as she does in the studio. It’s totally cool when the gals in the audience sing along.

MORGAN EVANS / “On My Own Again”
Writers: Chris DeStefano/Geoff Warburton/Morgan Evans/Zach Kale; Produced by: Chris DeStefano; Label: Warner Music Nashville 
Breezy, flowing and wafting — he’s on the road in the wake of a breakup. The guitar plucking is pretty special, too. Marvelously listenable.

TONY EVANS JR. / “Kids We Never Had”
Writers: Fred Wilhelm/Tony Evans Jr.; Producer: Ron Fair; Label: BFD
He’s a smooth, intimate-sounding baritone with a voice to get lost in. It didn’t work out between them, but sometimes he muses about what might have been. This is Evans’ second stunning performance in this column in as many weeks. Surely stardom awaits.

LUKE GRIMES / “Oh Ohio”
Writers: Jessi Alexander/Jon Randall/ Luke Grimes; Producer: Dave Cobb; Label: UMG Nashville, Warner Chappell Music
His vocal rasp is completely gripping as he slowly makes his way through this ballad of sorrowful farewell.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Shania Twain Supplies ‘More Hooks Than A Tuna Boat’

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Shania Twain. Photo: Louie Banks

One of the goals of the just concluded Country Radio Seminar is to introduce new country talents, so it’s appropriate that today’s edition of DisClaimer has a flurry of ‘em.

Making their debuts in the column are Meghan Patrick, Avery Anna, Teddy Robb Tony Evans Jr. and Tucker Beathard, with Chase Matthew marking his sophomore appearance. Tony Evans Jr. emerges with the DisCovery Award.

”Queen of Me,” indeed. Give feisty, creative Shania Twain her due with the Disc of the Day prize.

AVERY ANNA / “Just Cause I Love You”
Writers: Farrago/Justin Wilson/Kyle Fishman/Seth Ennis; Producer: David Fanning; Label: Warner
– There is a deliciously throaty quality in her voice that’s hard to resist. The song of being hopelessly enthralled with someone who’s left you behind is heartache on the hoof. For further demonstrations of this youngster’s abilities, check out “I Love You More,” “Narcissist” and “Critic.”

TRAVIS DENNING / “Strawberry Wine and a Cheap Six Pack”
Writers: Travis Denning/Thomas Archer/Jerry Flowers/Paul DiGiovanni; Producers: Jeremy Stover/Paul DiGiovanni; Label: Mercury
– Sunny, summer-y, propulsive and hooky. As always, his cool, furry, country boy vocal is a pure pleasure.

TONY EVANS JR. / “Need Somebody”
Writers: Fred Wilhelm/Tony Evans Jr.; Producers: Ron Fair; Label: TEJ
– He’s a baritone balladeer with a smooth intimacy in his delivery that grabs your ears and won’t let go. The little slides into his falsetto range are magical. I’m in. Please send more.

SHANIA TWAIN / “Queen of Me”
Writers: Shania Twain/Adam Messinger; Producer: Adam Messinger; Label: Republic
– More hooks than a tuna boat. It’s all here: A totally cool vocal performance, an ear-worm melody, fabulous production thump and a self-affirming lyric. She makes records like no one else. This is the title tune of her latest.

TUCKER BEATHARD / “Who I Am With You”
Writers: Tucker Beathard/Nathan Chapman/Jeffrey Steele; Producer: Oscar Charles/Ryan Tyndell; Label: Warner
– It’s heartfelt and thoughtful, yet with an undertow of energy. The production is ear tickling, but his troubadour persona remains in the spotlight. The lyric unspools his desire to live the better-angel side of himself. I think I’m a new fan.

BARBARA FAIRCHILD / “And I Love You So”
Writers: Don McLean; Producer: Aaron Dethrage; Label: Country Rewind/Hindsight
– Fairchild created a string of brilliant discs in the 1970s. This romantic chestnut is one of her previously unreleased performances. It has been given a production update and now serves as the title tune of a new album by her. This is a master class in country singing.

CHASE MATTHEW / “The Way I Am”
Writers: Chase Matthew/Hunter Phelps/Brock Berryhill/Andy Albert; Producers: Austin Shawn/Brock Berryhill; Label: Warner
– It’s a country heartache downer, but it rocks. He reaches into his upper vocal range when he hits the choruses. Radio ready.

MEGHAN PATRICK / “Ours”
Writers: Meghan Patrick/Joey Hyde/Matt McGinn/Lydia Vaughn; Producers: Joey Hyde/Aaron Eshuis; Label: Riser House
– This chugs along handsomely as she sings of running into her ex at “their” bar with another gal on his arm. Patrick is a big star North of the Border, with two CCMA Female Vocalist of the Year honors. I can certainly hear why. That said, the shifts in tempo between verse and chorus kinda interrupted my enjoyment.

TIM McGRAW / “Standing Room Only”
Writers: Craig Wiseman/Tommy Cecil/Patrick Murphy; Producers: Bryon Gallimore/Tim McGraw; Label: Big Machine
– This superstar’s career has been built on his ability to attract great songs. Chalk up another one. On this anthem, he wishes to live a life so worthy that when he dies, it will be standing room only at his wake. McGraw rules eternally.

TEDDY ROBB / “Stay Single”
Writers: Teddy Robb/Pete Good/James McNair/Brandon Ratcliff; Producer: Pete Good; Label: TR
– Nicely done. The tune rolls along with a loping gate while he falls in love, despite the vow in the song’s title. Gently persuasive.

TY HERNDON & TERRI CLARK / “Dents on a Chevy”
Writers: Starner Jones/Leslie Satcher/Will Robinson; Producer: Jimmy Thow; Label: Pivotal Records
– They are both such splendid country singers, so there’s no way this bopper couldn’t come up a winner. There’s a pause in the production that gives him a vocal spotlight, and her harmony work throughout is flawless. Irresistibly catchy.

RESTLESS ROAD / “I Don’t Wanna Be That Guy”
Writers: Colton Pack/Garrett Nichols/Jared Keim/Travis Wood/Zach Beeken; Producer: Lindsay Rimes; Label: RCA
– They swap lead vocals admirably. As always, the trio harmonies are seamless. The single is a bit too slick and overproduced.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Women Of Country Music Own The Genre

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Ashley McBryde. Photo: Katie Kauss

International Women’s Day occurred yesterday, so it’s fitting that the women of country music owned their genre in today’s DisClaimer.

Hitting it out of the park were Megan Moroney, Priscilla Block, Ashley McBryde and Kelsea Ballerini. The last two finished in a neck-and-neck finish for the Disc of the Day award with McBryde getting the edge because her track is a bona fide single, while Ballerini’s is a stunning TV performance. In any case, all four of these women are the Future.

That said, the DisCovery Award goes to a male singer-songwriter, Big Loud’s Larry Fleet.

JUSTIN MOORE / “Stray Dog”
Writers: Paul DiGiovanni, Randy Montana, Jeremy Stover, Justin Moore; Producesr: Jeremy Stover, Scott Borchetta; Label: Big Machine
– The duet with Priscilla Block remains the single. This is the title tune of the new album that contains it. It’s an “outlaw” anthem about being a free-spirit renegade. Electric guitars scream and drums pound, but it’s still as country as grits.

JOHN CARTER CASH / “Garden of Stone”
Writers: John Carter Cash; Producer: none listed, Label: JCC
– Somber, stately and meditative, this atmospheric ballad muses on death and the passage of time. Yet there is something warm and comforting about it. Cash’s soft, evocative delivery gets right up next to you.

ASHLEY McBRYDE / “Light on in the Kitchen”
Writers: Ashley McBryde/Connie Harrington/Jessi Alexander; Producer: Jay Joyce; Label: Warner Music Nashville
– Life advice, set to rippling guitars, shuffling percussion and tinkling mandolin. The singer carries strength and love with her everywhere, thanks to the support and wisdom of mama. Immensely tender and wonderfully listenable. I believed every word, and that’s the mark of a great country record.

RODNEY CROWELL, JEFF TWEEDY / “Everything at Once”
Writers: Rodney Crowell/Jeff Tweedy; Producer: Jeff Tweedy; Label: New West
– A gentle, hooky country rocker with an irresistible groove. The lyric asks us to stay sane in a world gone mad, or at least that’s what I got out of it. I do know one thing, if I made a record, I’d want Tweedy in the producer’s chair. A dandy listening experience.

WILLIE JONES / “No Tellin’”
Writers: none listed; Producers: none listed; Label: Sony
– It’s an invitation to a fling between two folks who are cheating on their significant others. With the assurance that they’ll keep it on the down low. The mood is country, the beats are hip hoppy and a melody is kind of suggested.

DAILEY & VINCENT / “If I Die A Drinkin’”
Writers: Vince Gill/Ashley Monroe; Producers: Paul Worley; Label: BMG
– The duo’s Let’s Sing Some Country! album finds them wandering off the bluegrass path and exploring honky-tonk territory, especially on this steel-soaked ballad. As always, Jamie Dailey’s vocal performance is simply breathtaking. He is one of the greatest country singers of this generation. This album is essential.

PRISCILLA BLOCK / “Couple Spring Breaks Back”
Writers: Priscilla Block/Randy Montana/Chris La Corte; Producers: Robbie Artress, Justin Johnson, Jake Curry; Label: UMG/InDent Records
– She recalls a happy drunken affair when they were young and free. The nostalgia is brilliantly conveyed in this extremely well written lyric. The oomphy production is a plus, as is her soaring delivery.

WILLIE NELSON / “I Don’t Know a Thing About Love”
Writers: Harlan Howard; Producers: Buddy Cannon; Label: Legacy
– Willie turns 90 next month, yet he’s still as vital a record maker as ever. His new album is I Don’t Know a Thing About Love, a tribute to the works of his songwriting contemporary Harlan Howard. Its title tune was a chart topper for Conway Twitty in 1984. Willie sounds totally at ease amid a stellar production of steel and thump in his remake. This is beyond cool.

MEGAN MORONEY / “Lucky “
Writers: Megan Moroney/Casey Smith/Ben Williams/David Mescon; Producer: Kristian Bush; Label: Sony Music Nashville
– This sprightly, barroom romp is the title tune of Megan’s debut album. It’s a two-stepper with a clever countrified take on loose morals. I have loved everything I have heard by this woman, and this is no exception

LARRY FLEET / “Daddy Don’t Drink”
Writers: Larry Fleet/Derek Bahr/Luke Laird; Producers: Joey Moi; Label: Big Loud Records
– Exquisitely written and sung with conviction. Daddy doesn’t drink anymore because the birth of his son turned his life around. Every line is a gem. Three chords and the truth, indeed.

PARKER McCOLLUM / “Rest of My Life”
Writers: Parker McCollum; Producers: Jon Randall; Label: MCA Nashville
– McCollum goes to the dark side in his scary, troubling video for this song about drug addiction. His depth as a writer seems to increase with every release. He’s an important artist. Lend him your ears.

KELSEA BALLERINI / “Penthouse”
Writers: Kelsea Ballerini/Alysa Vanderheym; Producers: Kelsea Ballerini/Alysa Vanderheym; Label: Black River Entertainment
– Ballerini’s appearance on Saturday Night Live last weekend was a triumph. On this post-divorce ballad she unveiled a dramatic, torchy side to her talent. Performing it with stark piano accompaniment, she owned the spotlight like never before. The song contains the line that named her new EP and its film short, Rolling Up the Welcome Mat.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Brad Paisley Delivers ‘Country Stardom At Its Finest’

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Country music is dealing with some ear-opening romance reality this week.

Jon Pardi, Ingrid Andress, Kip Moore and Allie Colleen all approach the topic of love with various kinds of creativity. All are well worth your spns.

There’s no denying the topicality and artistry of Brad Paisley, who earns the Disc of the Day with his excellent Ukraine-benefit single.

There’s also no denying the stupendous pleasure that comes with hearing a terrific new band. That would be The Shootouts, who captivated my brain and are taking home this week’s DisCovery Award.

SAM WILLIAMS / “Tilted Crown”
Writers: Luke DickSam Williams/Scooter Carusoe; Producer: Luke Dick; Label: Mercury Nashville
– Williams current single/video is a melodic, wistful ballad that finds him coming to grips with his family legacy. It has a troublesome ache, but a peaceful resolution. Plenty of emotion, plenty of hooks. A winner.

TYLER HUBBARD / “Small Town Me”
Writers: Chris LaCorte/Tyler Hubbard; Producer: Jordan Schmidt/Tyler Hubbard; Label: EMI Nashville
– Kinda beefy and anthem-like, it has a certain drive and oomph that make it sound like more than a simple ode to simple living. This guy has the goods.

RUSTY TRUCK / “Be on My Side”
Writers: Mark Seliger/Michael Duff; Producer: Larry Campbell; Label: Downtown
– Beautifully sung and produced, but I don’t hear a hit in this arty, meandering song.

MORGAN WALLEN / “Thought You Should Know”
Writers: Nicolle Galyon/Miranda Lambert/Morgan Wallen; Producer: Joey Moi; Label: Big Loud
– The song’s lyric scans awkwardly, and it seems to slip out of meter here and there. But the missing-mama sentiment rings true, as does the overall vibe of redemption. He can do better, and has.

CAITLYN SMITH / “The Great Pretender”
Writers: Caitlyn Smith/Bob DiPiero/Joe Clemmons; Producer: Caitlyn Smith; Label: Monument
– Nicely done. It’s about smiling on the outside, but crying on the inside. Her slightly cracked and broken vocal delivery is right on the money. The ballad’s simple, echoey, acoustic production is perfect for the mood. I’m in.

BRAD PAISLEY / “Same Here”
Writers: Brad Paisley/Lee Thomas Miller/Taylor Goldsmith; Producer: Luke Wooten/Brad Paisley; Label: EMI
– Released on the first anniversary of the terrible Ukraine invasion, this yearning ballad is awash in nostalgia, longing and reflection. The third verse addresses our brothers overseas who pray for peace and freedom. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy makes a moving cameo vocal appearance, and proceeds will benefit Ukrainian relief efforts. This is country stardom at its finest.

KASSI ASHTON / “Drive You Out of My Mind”
Writers: Kassi Ashton/Travis Wood/Todd Clark; Producers: Luke Laird/Todd Clark/Kassi Ashton; Label: MCA Nashville
– Ashton rocks out on this hit-the-road, tempestuous tempo tune. Splendidly rhythmic.

KIP MOORE / “Damn Love”
Writers: Jason Gantt/Jaren Johnston/James McNair; Producers: Kip Moore/Jaren Johnston; Label: MCA
– Yes, yes. This delightful pile driver captures everything there is to love about this artist—the passionate attitude, the raspy/urgent voice, the hooks-a-plenty melody, the fiery energy. His best yet.

INGRID ANDRESS / “Treated Me Good”
Writers: Ingrid Andress/Sam Ellis/Derrick Southerland; Producers: Ingrid Andress, Sam Ellis; Label: Warner
– She says a heartache farewell to a lover with tender good wishes. The excellent production builds admirably as she unspools her conflicting emotions. Her penetrating delivery of the drum-beat choruses is especially gripping.

JON PARDI / “Your Heart or Mine”
Writers: Bart Butler/Justin Ebach/John Pierce; Producers: Bart Butler, Ryan Gore & Jon Pardi; Label: Capitol Nashville
– The sound of hot romance. Kinda moody and bluesy, the atmospheric steady stomper is undeniably ear catching. I think this thing has legs.

THE SHOOTOUTS & ASLEEP AT THE WHEEL / “One Step Forward”
Writers: Allen Moss; Producers: Ray Benson, Sam Seife; Label: Soundly
– This Akron, Ohio band’s new album, Stampede, features appearances by Marty Stuart, Jim Lauderdale, Buddy Miller and Raul Malo. This delightful track is a collaboration with the legendary band led by the record’s producer, Ray Benson. It’s a super swinger with western jazzbo vibes that are bound to charm yer ears. Tune in for some hot picking, too. Yowza!

ALLIE COLLEEN / “Honest Man”
Writers: Allie Colleen/Kate Hasting/Vinny Vincent/Lance Carpenter; Producer: Joe Costa; Label: AC
– A powerfully strummed rhythm guitar backs her solid vocal of this expertly written exploration of true love. Wonderfully melodic and highly listenable. Heartily recommended.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Ashley McBryde & Brothers Osborne Stun With ‘Play Ball’

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Ashley McBryde and John Osborne. Photo: Katie Kauss

As we roll toward springtime, country music’s artists are putting their best feet forward.

Perhaps no one more so that Grammy winner Ashley McBryde. Her co-written “Play Ball” provides an outstanding platform for the talents of Brothers Osborne. Which is the Disc of the Day.

Newcomer Brandon Davis rides into town as this week’s DisCovery Award winner.

BRANDON DAVIS / “Fell For You”
Writers: Brandon Davis/Brandon Sammons; Producer: BSAMZ; Label: Big Yellow Dog
– A poignant heartache honky-tonker that’s country, country, country, all the way. Very promising.

BROTHERS OSBORNE & ASHLEY McBRYDE / “Play Ball”
Writers: Ashley McBryde/Brandy Clark/Benjy Davis/Connie Harrington/Nicolette Hayford/Aaron Ratiere; Producer: John Osborne; Label: Warner
– If there was an award for Country Concert of the Year, I’d be polishing a statuette for Ashley McBryde. Her “Welcome to Lindeville” all-star gathering at the Ryman last week was the most wildly entertaining and meaningful country event of our era. I have already told you about her extraordinary album’s “Bonfire at Tina’s,” “Gospel Night at the Strip Club” and “Brenda Put Your Bra On,” all of which were stunning in live performance. One thing the concert revealed was how important is the album’s producer, John Osborne. He and his brilliant vocalist brother T.J. turned this exquisite song into an an epic small-town poem about the groundskeeper at Dennis Linde Field. In a word, awesome.

MACKENZIE CARPENTER / “Jesus I’m Jealous”
Writers: Mackenzie Carpenter/Steve Moakler; Producer: Brandon Hood; Label: Valory
– Carpenter is a CMT Next Women of Country participant this year. This lilting outing finds her watching young lovers from her barstool and feeling pangs of envy. Loneliness hurts.

THE WAR & TREATY / “Ain’t No Harmin’ Me”
Writers: Michael Trotter Jr.,Tanya Trotter; Producer: Dave Cobb; Label: Mercury
– Moody and bluesy and altogether hypnotizing, the new single by this extraordinary act is a rapturous swirl of soul. They introduced it on the Opry and, as usual, brought down the house.

DALTON DOVER / “Giving Up on That”
Writers: Dalton Dover/Adam Craig/John Pierce; Producer: Matthew McVaney; Label: Mercury
– I have been in this country youngster’s corner from the get-go and couldn’t be more pleased that he is getting a major-label shot. This power ballad of regret and yearning gives him a super showcase for his dynamic, whisper-to-a-scream vocal ability. A solid winner. Make this man a star.

OLIVIA NEWTON JOHN & DOLLY PARTON / “Jolene”
Writers: Dolly Parton; Producer: Dane Bryant; Label: Green Hill
– The last recording and video that Olivia did prior to her passing last August was a duet with her longtime buddy Dolly. The result is a terrific interplay of voices fronting a kick-butt rhythm track. I love the way Dolly improvises as the choruses repeat. It will become part of an Olivia duets album in May, and the late singer will be celebrated via a live-streamed “global memorial service” from Melbourne on Sunday (Feb. 26). As for Dolly, she has a gospel duet coming next month with the legendary Dionne Warwick and is also part of an all-star collaboration titled “Gonna Be You” with Cyndi Lauper, Gloria Estefan, Debbie Harry and Belinda Carlisle.

NEON UNION / “‘Bout Damn Time”
Writers: Michael Hardy, Jordan Schmidt, Hunter Phelps, Tyler Hubbard; Producer: Dann Huff; Label: Red Street
– Comprised of Leo Brooks and Andrew Millsaps, this plus-sized, Black-white duo was put together by Jimmie Allen after he saw each of the members performing separately. Neon Union’s disc debut is a raise-em-up, beer-drinking, party-hearty, rousing country rocker about getting back to our hillbilly roots. I’ll drink to that.

TENILLE TOWNES & BRYAN ADAMS / “The Thing That Wrecks You”
Writers: Bryan Adams/Daniel Tashian/Kate York/Tenille Townes; Producers: Tenille Townes/Jaxon Hargrove; Label: Sony
– Adams’ hoarse raspy whisper contrasts beautifully with Townes’ assured, penetrating soprano delivery on this dramatic pile driver. The throbbing track and the Canadian stars’ audio charisma make this an essential listening experience. Absolutely play this.

KYLIE MORGAN / “Don’t Stay Gone Too Long”
Writers: Jason Massey, Kylie Morgan, Nelly Joy; Producer: Jason Massey; Label: EMI
– Sweet and plaintive, it begins with a youngster leaving home for the first time, segues into a lament about lovers separating, then a deathbed farewell to a beloved grandma. Achingly innocent-sounding and lovely.

BAILEY ZIMMERMAN / “Rock and a Hard Place”
Writers: Heath Warren/Jacob Hackworth/Jet Black; Producer: Austin Shawn; Label: Warner/Elektra
– Currently opening for Morgan Wallen on tour, this new country streaming sensation seems to blast one single after another into the top-10. This searing ballad is no exception. Sung with burning conviction.

LILY ROSE / “Truth Is”
Writers: Lily Rose/Stephen Carey/Ian Christian/Matt Morrisey; Producer: Joey Moi; Label: Big Loud
– It’s easier to swallow a slug of booze than it is to face the fact that the relationship is dead as a doornail. A classic heartache honky-tonk message given a kicking, driving, rhythm-saturated production. Not to mention her always-dynamic voice.

IAN MUNSICK / “River Run”
Writers: Jeremy Spillman/Ryan Beaver/Ian Munsick; Producers: Ian Munsick/Jeremy Spillman; Label: Warner
– Instantly gripping. The banjo-and-fiddle embellished, groove-soaked track pulls you in from its opening notes. Munsick’s piercing, country-boy tenor vocal carries the rushing, frothing emotions of lost love forward with immense personality. A very cool sonic experience.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Darius Rucker Makes A ‘Soul Stirring’ Cover Of Rihanna Ballad

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We have some dandy ballads for you country-music lovers today.

Adam Hood, Reyna Roberts & Tayler Holder, Sam Hunt, Walker County and the all-time master of slowies, Vince Gill, are all on hand today with messages from the heart. Topping them all is Darius Rucker, who has the Disc of the Day with “Lift Me Up.”

The DisCovery Award goes to Dylan Marlowe. Guess what? He has a ballad, too.

REYNA ROBERTS & TAYLER HOLDER / “Another Round”
Writers: Reyna Roberts/Laura Veltz/Jimmy Robbins; Producer: none listed; Label: Empire
– Previously noted as a country rocker, Roberts showcases her true vocal skills on this power ballad about calling it quits with a guy. Duet partner Holder can’t keep up with her firepower, but the whole thing is a listening pleasure.

DYLAN MARLOWE / “Record High”
Writers: Dylan Marlowe/Zach Abend/Adam Dean/Tyler Collins; Producer: Joe Fox; Label: Sony
– Moody and haunting. The soundscape ripples with dobro, muted percussion and chimed electronics. His broken-hearted delivery aches with sincerity. Excellent work.

DARIUS RUCKER / “Lift Me Up”
Writers: Rihanna/Ryan Coogler/Ludwig Goransson/Tems; Producer: Dann Huff; Label: UMG
– Wakanda forever! Right on the heels of Rihanna’s Super Bowl halftime performance comes Rucker’s fine cover of her Oscar-nominated theme song from the Black Panther franchise. Beautifully produced, spiritually uplifting and soul stirring. It builds to anthem-level intensity before receding into an intimate prayer. Essential.

MEGAN MORONEY / “I’m Not Pretty”
Writers: Micah Carpenter/Megan Moroney/Mackenzie Carpenter/Ben Williams; Producer: Kristian Bush; Label: Sony
– I fell in love with her the moment I heard “Tennessee Orange.” This clever, femme-centric ditty confirms her status as a first-class, off-center, wonderfully creative country artist. With flawless storytelling skill, she relates a modern gal’s situation of being stalked on social media by her ex’s new girlfriend. Rest assured, Instagram gets a shout-out.

TRAVIS TRITT / “Get a Little Rowdy”
Writer: Travis Tritt; Producers: Danny Davenport, Billy Suit, Travis Tritt; Label: Painted Desert Music
– Upbeat and lively, this is Tritt in his classic soul-meets-honkytonk style. The production is a little thin, but his vocal passion carries the day.

RUSTY CREEK / “Bombs Away”
Writer: Alexander Deeth; Producers: Tim Hearsey,Alex Deeth; Label: RC
– This Canadian band moans an anti-war message aimed at Russia’s disgusting invasion of the Ukraine. It would be nice if one of them could sing. At least the steel guitarist gets it right.

SAM HUNT / “Walmart”
Writers: Sam Hunt/Zach Crowell/Shane McAnally/Josh Osborne; Producers: Zach Crowell,Chris LaCorte,Sam Hunt,King Henry; Label: UMG
– His feathery delivery is perfect for this wistful ballad of resignation. The song’s snapshot of small-town life glows with philosophic, matter-of-fact acceptance that a broken relationship isn’t the end of the world. I dig this. A lot.

VINCE GILL / “Someday”
Writers: Vince Gill/Richard Marx; Producer: Vince Gill; Label: MCA
– I’m not sure what is going on here. The video of Vince’s gorgeous 2003 ballad is evidently being re-issued by UMG. Hey, any time I can hear this angelic voice is fine with me.

JON LANGSTON / “Howdy Howdy Howdy”
Writers: Jacob Rice, Jon Langston, Jordan Gray; Producers: Jacob Rice, Jody Stevens; Label: EMI
– Howdy rhymes with rowdy. Langston growls his way through this barroom romp while guitars grind, a steel stutters and a drummer blasts the beats. Lotsa fun.

GRIFFEN PALMER / “Second Guessing”
Writers: Andrew Deroberts/Benjamin Simonetti/Brian Kelley/Corey Crowder/Ester Dean/Geoffrey Warburton/Griffen Palmer/Ryan Tedder/Shane McAnally/Tyler Hubbard; Producer: Joey Moi; Label: Big Loud
– Palmer sang this on TV’s The Bachelor last week. It’s a fairly routine love song. Ten writers? Really?

ADAM HOOD / “You Love Me Like That”
Writers: Adam Hood, Sean McConnell; Producer: Brent Cobb; Label: Southern Songs
– Hood has written tunes for Miranda Lambert, The Oak Ridge Boys,Travis Tritt, Little Big Town, Lee Ann Womack, Luke Combs, Anderson East, Riley Green and more. He made some noise last year with his solo album Bad Days Better. Now comes his kick-off single for 2023, a beautiful Valentine ballad with enormous grace and gentility. So-o-o-o-o romantic.

WALKER COUNTY / “Stoned”
Writers: Ivy Walker/Sophie Walker/Ashley Monroe; Producer: AJ Pruiss; Label: Warner
– “Your love is a drug and I’m stoned.” Appropriately, the track has a dreamy, ethereal sound and the sisters’ vocals are airy and wafting. “Let’s get lit, fired up and breathed in.” A totally baked winner.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Kane & Katelyn Brown Get Us ‘Giddy’ With Love

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We have a lovely group of fresh faces today in DisClaimer.

Let me direct your attention to Kentucky singer-songwriter Brit Taylor. She’s the best neo-traditionalist to come along in ages. Then there’s Aliyah Good, whose songwriting prowess is way beyond her young years. Finally, take a listen to Kelsey Hart. He’s country to the core and our DisCovery Award winner.

The Disc of the Day belongs to the sweet singing of Kane & Katelyn Brown.

TYLER BOOTH / “Real, Real Country”
Writers: Tyler Booth; Producer: none listed; Label: Sony/Villa 40
– Redneck rock, especially if you crank it up.

JORDAN DAVIS / “Next Thing You Know”
Writers: Jordan Davis/Greylan James/Chase McGill/Josh Osborne; Producer: Paul DiGiovanni; Label: MCA Nashville
– Heart warming. Love sneaks up on you, life races by and bliss surrounds you. His vocal delivery is utterly inviting, and the lyric is a charmer.

BRIT TAYLOR / “Kentucky Blue”
Writers: Brit Taylor/Kimberly Kelly/Adam Wright; Producers: Sturgill Simpson/David Ferguson; Label: Cut a Shine/Thirty Tigers
– The title tune of Taylor’s sophomore album is mountain-music heaven. Mandolins ripple, fiddles sway and guitars strum along as her heartbroken soprano trills beautifully. This lady is the Real Deal.

DIERKS BENTLEY & ASHLEY McBRYDE / “Cowboy Boots”
Writers: Casey Brown/Jordan Minton/Hunter Phelps/Dierks Bentley; Producers: Dierks Bentley/F. Reid Shippen/Jon Randall/Ross Copperman; Label: Capitol
– An ode to country’s preferred footwear, set to a steady tempo and a plain-spoken melody with lots of steel, especially in the deliciously long finale fade. Both singers take a crack at verses, and McBryde sings harmony on the choruses.

KELSEY HART / “6-Pack Gone”
Writers: Kelsey Hart/Mason Thornley/Joe Clemmons; Producers: Tommy Cecil/Matt Alderman; Label: Curb
– He counts down his heartbreak, one beer at a time. The songwriting is super imaginative, and his performance is solid. This sure sounds like a hit to me. Formerly a successful indie act, this marks Hart’s debut as a Curb artist.

LUKE COMBS / “Love You Anyway”
Writers: Luke Combs/Ray Fulcher/Reid Isbell; Producer: none listed; Label: Sony
– The boy is so likeable when he’s topsy-turvy in love like this. The ballad fits him like a comfy glove.

CAYLEE HAMMACK / “All Or Nothing”
Writers: Caylee Hammack/Tofer Brown/Thomas Finch; Producers: Caylee Hammack/Dann Huff; Label: Capitol
– The fiery redhead storms through this banger with fierce vocal commitment. The double-time drumming and churning electronics stir up the frothing energy. It might rock just a little too hard for some country programmers.

MATT STELL / “Shut the Truck Up”
Writers: Matt Stell/Jessie Jo Dillon/Chase McGill; Producer: Matt Stell/Ash Bowers; Label: Records
– The pick-up has to go. It holds too many memories of a broken romance. Stell has always been a fine country communicator, and this well-constructed song gives him another worthy platform.

TYLER BRADEN / “Neon Grave”
Writers: Tyler Braden/Shane Minor/Justin Ebach; Producer: Randy Montana; Label: Warner
– I have made no secret of my admiration for this artist. The title tune of his EP seethes with vocal passion. It’s a minor-key, moody, slow-burn country rocker with a dark twang and, as usual, he sings his face off. Keep on playing the titanic “Try Losing One,” but sample this track, too.

KANE BROWN & KATELYN BROWN / “Thank God”
Writers: Christian Stainecker/Jared Mullis/Jaxson Free/Josh Hoge/Kyle Fishman; Producer: Dann Huff; Label: Sony
– Mr. and Mrs. Brown are all giddy in love on this sweet, lilting outing. I’m happy to report that she is a fine singer in her own right. My only disappointment was that Katelyn didn’t break into vocal harmony with Kane until the very last phrase of the song.

ALIYAH GOOD / “Ending of a First Love”
Writers: Aliyah Good; Producer: none listed; Label: AG
– Teenager Good is the daughter of country hit maker Jamie O’Neal (”There Is No Arizona”). The apple didn’t fall from the tree, because this is an outstanding debut. She sings in an assured, range-y soprano, but what I’m even more impressed with is her stunning maturity as a songwriter. This is potent, and the chiming, swirling track doesn’t hurt a bit.

THE WAR & TREATY / “Lover’s Game”
Writers: Dave Cobb/Michael Trotter Jr./Tanya Trotter; Producer: Dave Cobb; Label: Mercury
– Previously noted for scorching ballads, the sensational soul duo rocks out on this snappy tempo tune. Electric guitars scream along, and the rhythm track kicks up dust behind their wailing delivery.