DISClaimer Single Reviews: Chris Young Delivers ‘A Pile Driver’ With New Single

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It’s Boys Town here at DISClaimer today.

Caitlyn Smith and Chapel Hart are trying their best, but this listening session belonged to the likes of Tyler Hubbard, Chris Janson, Mitchell Tenpenny, Hardy, Thomas Rhett and their musical brothers.

Riding at the front of the herd is Chris Young, who has the Disc of the Day.

RESTLESS ROAD / “On My Way”
Writers: Colton Pack/Garrett Nichols/Kyle Clark/Lindsay Rimes/Zach Beeken; Producer: Dann Huff; Label: RCA/1021 Entertainment
–Their best effort yet. It’s a sweet waltz about striving to become a better person, loaded with insight and philosophical musings. The lyric might be about being a work in progress, but this single is definitely a finished project. Play this.

THOMAS RHETT / “Angels (Don’t Always Have Wings)”
Writers: Thomas Rhett/Julian Bunetta/Jaten Dimsdale/Josh Thompson; Producers: Dann Huff/Julian Bunetta; Label: Valory
–This deliberately paced ballad expresses gratitude with a terrific falsetto leap in the chorus. Gently listenable.

CAITLYN SMITH / “Lately”
Writers: Caitlyn Smith/Gordie Sampson/Troy Verges; Producer: Caitlyn Smith; Label: Monument
–The melody of this power ballad is vocally challenging, but she meets every low dip and high soprano passage with aplomb. A country performance that name checks Beethoven and Dostoevsky? Believe it.

CHRIS YOUNG / “Looking for You”
Writers: Chris Young/Chris DeStefano/James McNair/Emily Weisband; Producers: Chris Young/Chris DeStefano; Label: RCA
–One of my favorite male country voices returns with a pile driver that begs to be cranked up to “10.” The quest for love has seldom rocked so splendidly.

DREW PARKER / “At the End of the Dirt Road”
Writers: Ben Hayslip/Brock Berryhill/Jameson Rodgers; Producers: Phil O’Donnel/Scott Hendricks; Label: Warner
–Parker is up for a Grammy this year for co-writing the Luke Combs mega hit “Doin’ This.” He’s no slouch as a record maker, himself, as this title tune to his forthcoming EP illustrates. It’s an ode to rural bliss with some echoey guitar sonics added for atmosphere.

TYLER HUBBARD / “Dancin’ in the Country”
Writers: Jon Nite/Keith Urban/Ross Copperman/Tyler Hubbard; Producers: Jordan Schmidt/Tyler Hubbard; Label: EMI
–Lotsa fun. The bopper invites her out for a dance floor spin or three. The beats don’t stop for one moment. By the way, the video is hilarious.

MICHAEL WARREN / “Another Round”
Writers: Ben Stennis/Erik Dylan/Joey Hyde; Producer: Aaron Eshuis; Label: MW
–Breezy and utterly delightful. This wafting, airy, swirling outing captures young romance perfectly. Warren’s easy-going delivery is flawlessly matched by a dreamy production.

TOM WOPAT / “County Line”
Writer: Tom Wopat; Producers: Tom Wopat/David Finck; Label: TW
–Since his days on The Dukes of Hazzard and as a country hit maker of the 1980s, Wopat has carved out an enviable career as a Broadway-musicals star. His return to country record-making has a bluesy edge in this minor-key cautionary tale. It’s about a boy headed for trouble in a place where bad things happen. The recording with his road band sounds like it was recorded live in the studio.

CHAPEL HART / “Glory Days”
Writers: Danica Hart/Devynn Hart/Trea Swindle/Jim Beavers; Producer: none listed; Label: CH
–This bopper describes their life and adventures on the road and at home. It’s tuneful and enjoyable, but they need more polish in the production.

MITCHELL TENPENNY / “We Got History”
Writers: Mitchell Tenpenny/Andy Albert/Devin Dawson/Jordan Schmidt; Producers: Mitchell Tenpenny/Jordan Schmidt; Label: Riser House/Columbia
–The enveloping warmth of his voice is the magnetic attraction here. A throbbing production and the lyric of romantic regret add to the single’s magic. I’m into this sound all the way. Previously reviewed in November, the tune is getting a new boost this month with the release of its video.

HARDY / “The Mockingbird & The Crow”
Writers: Michael Hardy/Brett Tyler/Jordan Schmidt; Producers: Joey Moi/Derek Wells/Michael Hardy/Jordan Schmidt; Label: Big Loud
–This gifted fellow describes his journey as a tunesmith, accompanied by a beautifully twangy production, in the “Mockingbird” portion of the performance. Then he abruptly becomes a yelling, in-your-face hip-hopper in the rock-track “Crow” segment. You figure it out.

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
–A straight-ahead love song, delivered with his usual earnestness.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Jordan Davis Gets ‘Steamy & Sexy’ On Newest Release

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Sex always sells.

Just ask Jordan Davis, who is heading straight to the top by giving his image a sensual makeover with “No Time Soon.” It is our Disc of the Day.

One nice trend in today’s playlist is the presence of female-centric lyrics. You’ll find them by Walker County, Brei Carter and Priscilla Block. Add a touching performance by the late Jody Miller, and you have some real woman-music power.

Speaking of Miller, we have welcome tracks by two other veterans today. One of them is Shenandoah’s. The other belongs to Willie Nelson. How awesome is it that he’s turning 90 this year and still making music this great?

BLANCO BROWN / “I’ll Never”
Writers: Blanco Brown/Keith Justice/Allen Arthur; Producers: Blanco Brown/Bizkit & Butta; Label: BBR
–Country, country, country–from the steel-drenched track to the everlasting-love sentiment. Brown’s plaintive vocal drips with sincerity as he unspools the romantic message. He’s never sounded better.

SHENANDOAH / “Revival”
Writers: Corey Crowder/Tyler Hubbard/Brian Kelley/Josh Miller; Producer: Noah Gordon; Label: 8 Track Entertainment
–The band is as tight as ever, and Marty’s still one of our finest country singers. The peppy, FGL-penned tune is a catchy toe-tapper with faux-gospel flavor that describes country buddies reuniting and reminiscing. I’ll bet audiences clap along when they hear this live.

PRISCILLA BLOCK / “Me, Pt. 2”
Writer: Priscilla Block; Producers: Jake Curry/Justin Johnson/Robbie Artress; Label: Mercury
–The “My Bar” and “Off the Deep End” songstress returns with a heartache ballad. Block sings with enormous emotion as she describes the new lover her ex has found. This lady really communicates, which is to say she’s a superb country-music artist. Take her into your heart.

DIERKS BENTLEY / “Same Ol’ Me”
Writers: Dierks Bentley/Jon Randall/Luke Dick; Producers: Dierks Bentley/F. Reid Shippen/Jon Randall/Ross Copperman; Label: Capitol
–Bentley’s debut as a record producer is a solid country rocker with just the right touch of twang. An electric guitar sizzles, a mandolin tinkles, a drummer pounds and the singer barks. Radio ready.

FILMORE / “Mean Something”
Writers: Will Weatherly/Michael Whitworth/Filmore; Producer: Zach Abend; Label: Curb
–The title tune of Filmore’s second album is a yearning ballad. He has given up a lot for his music, so he hopes that in the end it will mean something to his listeners (“because it means everything to me”). Fans, this one’s for you.

DUSTIN LYNCH / “Stars Like Confetti”
Writers: Josh Thompson/Thomas Rhett/Zach Crowell; Producer: Zach Crowell; Label: Broken Bow
–You can’t help but smile. This good-time banger captures being dizzy in love so marvelously. Get up and bop around the room. Or turn it up on the open road.

CALLISTA CLARK & JIMMIE ALLEN / “Wish You Wouldn’t”
Writers: Callista Clark/Emily Falvey/Lalo Guzman; Producer: Nathan Chapman; Label: Big Machine
–His performance is more country than hers is. But there’s very little that’s “country” about this melodically meandering and overly wordy song. She’s only 19, so there’s still plenty of time for her to transition to pop, where her heart seems to be.

WILLIE NELSON / “Busted”
Writer: Harlan Howard; Producer: Buddy Cannon; Label: Legacy
–Previously a country hit for Johnny Cash (1963), a Grammy-winning R&B performance by Ray Charles (1963) and a country hit again for John Conlee (1982), this blue-collar evergreen now gets the behind-the-beat Willie treatment. Mickey Raphael’s harmonica wailing underscores and answers every line. The superstars’s distinctive guitar, a punchy rhythm section and some sighing soul organ complete the perfectly mixed track. Totally groovy.

WALKER COUNTY / “Mirror Mirror”
Writers: Sophie Walker/Ivy Walker/Autumn McEntire/Jennifer Schott; Producer: AJ Prius; Label: Warner
–I love this beautifully produced and performed single. The duo hits an emotional bullseye with this sweet, female-empowerment song. It’s about how hard and self-critical a woman can be. Instead of negativity, look in the mirror and tell the image how beautiful and strong she is. Essential listening.

JORDAN DAVIS / “No Time Soon”
Writers: Jacob Davis/Jordan Davis/Matt Jenkins/Josh Jenkins; Producer: Paul DiGiovanni; Label: MCA
–Mr. Davis gets all steamy and sexy on this rumbling, compelling country rocker. He advises his paramour to lay down for some love making that won’t quit for quite some time. This one’s going straight to the top with no stops.

JODY MILLER / “I Can’t Even Walk Without You Holding My Hand”
Writers: Colbert Cross/Joyce Croft; Producer: Justin Trevino; Label: Heart of Texas
–This great, Grammy-winning Okie vocalist passed away in October after battling Parkinson’s Disease. Her last recordings are now being released on an album titled Wayfaring Stranger. Listening to this track tugs at the heartstrings, given the debilitating disease she was battling when she recorded it. Her lustrous alto rings with truth and authenticity.

BREI CARTER / “Stronger Than That”
Writers: Brei Carter/Wayne Burton; Producer: Jason Wyatt; Label: BC
–This lady’s songwriting is always admirably female-centric, and this midtempo single from her second album is no exception. These lyrics find her rising above trials and difficulties to emerge victorious. I would add a little echo to her vocal to give it more oomph.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Lukas Graham & Mickey Guyton Deliver ‘A Duet To Die For’

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Lukas Graham, Mickey Guyton

Country youngsters rule the day here at DISClaimer.

Our lineup of baby acts includes such talents as Griffen Palmer, Alana Springsteen, Corey Kent, Rusty Truck and Bryan Ruby, all of whom are worth your spins.

The DISCovery Award goes to Megan Moroney, who is also a member of this class of 2023.

The Disc of the Day also goes to a newcomer to the column, Lukas Graham. What a singer. Pair him with Mickey Guyton and you have a duet to die for.

Mind you, the team was not without worthy challengers. The Gibson Brothers, Rusty Truck with Sheryl Crow, Elle King and Chase Rice were the other contenders for top honors this week.

Play on, country-music lovers.

COREY KENT / “Man of the House”
Writers: Corey Kent/Austin Goodloe/Joybeth Taylor/Lydia Vaughan; Producer: Jay Joyce; Label: RCA
–Up-and-comer Kent stages his Grand Ole Opry debut on Saturday (Jan. 14). The Gold-certified “Wild As Her” continues to climb, and while it does he has released this marvelous acoustic track. As before, his sandpapery vocal rasp is extraordinarily emotive. Accompanied by just his guitar, he communicates better than he does with rocked-up production. It also allows the lyric of this song to shine. It’s the touching story of a boy trying to fill shoes that are too big.

CHRIS YOUNG / “All Dogs Go to Heaven”
Writers: none listed; Producer: none listed; Label: RCA
–Amen to this sentiment. With the built-in sincerity of his singing, Chris is the perfect artist for this message. A mid-tempo track rolls along gently while he promises us that the dogs we have loved will be waiting for us at the Pearly Gates.

GRIFFEN PALMER / “Second Guessing”
Writers: Griffen Palmer/Corey Crowder/Ester Dean/Andrew DeRoberts/Tyler Hubbard/Brian Kelley/Shane McAnally/Ben Simonetti/Ryan Tedder/Geoff Warburton; Producer: Joey Moi; Label: Big Loud
–The song was previously released by FGL, but as we have learned to expect, the songwriter’s version is usually superior. His tenor vocal is stacked with harmonies as the track proceeds at a steady, deliberate, plodding pace. I think it could use a tempo goose.

THE GIBSON BROTHERS / “One Minute of You”
Writer: Leigh Gibson; Producer: Jerry Douglas; Label: GB
–These talented siblings are well-known to bluegrass lovers. Their new Darkest Hour CD takes aim at the mainstream country market, and this single just might do the trick. The lovely, echoey ballad is about watching your daughter grow and cherishing every moment. Their twin lead acoustic guitars are enchanting, too.

MEGAN MORONEY / “Tennessee Orange”
Writers: Ben Williams/David Fanning/Megan Moroney/Paul Jenkins; Producer: Kristian Bush; Label: Sony
–She confides to her mama that she’s fallen in love. “He’s got me doing things I’ve never done….I’m wearing Tennessee orange for him.” Even though she was raised on red for the Dawgs. She begs not to let her dad know, because “he’d blow a fuse.” Can you blame him? She’s learning the lyrics to “Rocky Top,” for crying out loud. A sweet, charming, waltz-time outing.

ELLE KING / “Tulsa”
Writers: Elle King/Ella Langley/Bobby Hamrick/Matt McKinney; Producers: Elle King/Ross Copperman; Label: Columbia
–Bodaciously rocking, yet undeniably hillbilly. Her feisty attitude is at the top of the flagpole on this sass fest. Here’s the deal: He didn’t leave her for a city in Oklahoma. “If you spell it back to front, you’ll know what I mean.” I guess she doesn’t like his new chick too much.

LAYNG MARTINE JR. / “Music Man”
Writer: Layng Martine Jr.; Producer: Tucker Martine; Label: Bloodshot
–Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame member Layng Martine Jr. teams up with his alt-rock producer son Tucker Martine (My Morning Jacket, Sufjan Stevens, Niko Case, The Decemberists, etc.). The combination of the 81-year-old troubadour and the shaggy haired hipster members of the steel-soaked band is intriguing listening and ultimately kinda groovy.

RUSTY TRUCK & SHERYL CROW / “Find My Way”
Writers: Mark Seliger/Michael Duff; Producer: Larry Campbell; Label: RT
–The frontman of the band is noted celebrity photographer Mark Seliger. He’s also a first-rate singer-songwriter, as is clear on this warm, languid ode about a quest for love. Crow’s ethereal harmonies and “answered” passages add to the audio excellence. Thoroughly pleasurable from opening note to closing.

CHASE RICE / “I Hate Cowboys”
–Writers: Chase Rice/Michael Hardy/Ross Copperman /Brad Tursi; Producer: Oscar Charles; Label: BBR
–As you might expect, he hates them because they steal your gal away. Hit bound.

BRYAN RUBY / “Hell of a Year”
Writer: Parker McCollum; Producer: Adam Sickler; Label: BR
–Ruby’s burnished baritone is the ideal deliverer of this heartache honky-tonker. He totally has the vocal chops for a classic country weeper. Play it.

LUKAS GRAHAM & MICKEY GUYTON / “Home Movies”
Writers: David LaBrel/Jaramye Daniels/Nicolle Galyon/Rory Andrew; Producers: Rory Andrew/Markus Artved; Label: Warner
–Graham’s strong, penetrating delivery is powerful enough. In fact, he’s downright hair raising in his upper register. Add Guyton’s sensational soprano and you’ve got total audio magic. The superb production is the icing on this scrumptious cake. He is a Danish pop artist with billions of international streams, and this stunning duet stakes his claim for country stardom. In a word, awesome.

ALANA SPRINGSTEEN / “You Don’t Deserve a Country Song”
Writers: Alana Springsteen/Geoff Warburton/Michael Whitworth/Mitchell Tenpenny/Will Weatherly; Producers: Chris LaCorte/ Will Weatherly ; Label: Columbia Records NY/Sony Music Nashville
–Is this the greatest country song title or what? The youngster bops along as she fires off snarky lines to an ex. Smart and sassy.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Ashley McBryde & Friends Give Some ‘Sass & Salt’ On New Tune

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Happy New Year from the land of country music.

Today’s DISClaimer is a guidepost of what’s ahead for this genre, since it features three first-timers, Ryan Griffin, Channing Wilson and Myron Elkins. Also along for the ride this week are such promising young folks as Brittney Spencer and Brandon Ratcliff, both of whom are readying debut albums. The DISCovery Award goes to the mighty voiced Channing Wilson.

As for our established headliners, a tip of the hat to Old Dominion, Shania Twain, Kenny Chesney, Charles Kelley and Parker McCollum. Not to mention the Disc of the Day winner, Ashley McBryde. Her Lindeville collection is a stunner, and her collaboration with Caylee Hammack and Pillbox Patti is a pure delight.

On behalf of all these talented folks, here’s a toast to a grand 2023.

BRITTNEY SPENCER / “Better As Friends”
Writers: Brittney Spencer/Hailey Whitters; Producer: Daniel Tashian; Label: Elektra
–Very cool. The song is a dandy piece of songwriting craftsmanship. The track boasts jaunty rhythm, acoustic instrumental accents and an admirably catchy groove. Then there’s her vocal, which is packed with personality and conversational asides. A winner.

OLD DOMINION / “Memory Lane”
Writers: Matthew Ramsey/Trevor Rosen/Brad Tursi/Jessie Jo Dillon; Producers: Old Dominion/Shane McAnally Label: Arista
–The onrushing energy is breathtaking. The vocal performances are stellar. The song is beyond hooky. The Group of the Year strikes again. Play this at once.

RYAN GRIFFIN / “Salt, Lime & Tequila”
Writers: Ava Suppelsa/Ryan Griffin/Jason Massey; Producer: Jason Massey; Label: Red Street
–This fellow is the flagship artist on the new Jay DeMarcus label. He has country charm, boyish grins and good vibes to spare as he advises taking life with a grain of salt….. lime and you-know-what. An engaging summery smile for a winter’s day.

PARKER McCOLLUM / “Stoned”
Writers: Parker McCollum/Brett James/Mark Holman; Producer: Jon Randall; Label: MCA Nashville
–“Handle On You” remains the single, but this gripping track is a keeper, too. As always, McCollum delivers the goods as a solidly country singer. The track crashes and pounds around him as he wails about staying blotto until he’s over her.

CHANNING WILSON / “Sunday Morning Blues”
Writers: Channing Wilson/Chris Canterbury; Producer: Dave Cobb; Label: Low Country Sound
–Wilson is an established Music Row writer, with cuts by The Oaks, Travis Tritt, Luke Combs (”She Got the Best of Me”), Robert Randolph & The Family, Jerry Jeff Walker and more. As an artist, he sings in a resonant baritone with a touch of tremelo and a whole lot of heart. While a steel sighs, he delivers a masterful performance of a classic country weeper. Somewhere a choir is singing “Just As I Am” and “When the Roll Is Called Up Yonder,” but he’s cracking open another beer. I hung on every line. You will, too.

KENNY CHESNEY / “Da Ruba Girl”
Writer: Kenny Chesney; Producers: Kenny Chesney/Buddy Cannon; Label: Warner/Blue Chair
–Kenny busts out a ukulele to accompany himself on this ditty in praise of his doggies. Ya gotta love it.

ASHLEY McBRYDE, CAYLEE HAMMACK & PILLBOX PATTI / “Brenda Put Your Bra On”
Writers: Ashley McBryde/Brandy Clark/Benjy Dvis/Connie Harrington/Nicolette Hayford/Aaron Raitiere; Producer: John Osborne; Label: Warner
–Howlingly good. White-trash domestic upheaval depicted with wit, sass and salt. The storytelling talent, funny-bone tickling and vocal panache in this are all beyond great. McBryde rules!

SHANIA TWAIN / “Giddy Up!”
Writers: David Stewart/Jessica Agombar/Romans/Shania Twain; Producer: David Stewart; Label: Republic Nashville
–Shania heads out on the country dance floor, sliding to the left and sliding to the right as she unleashes this ridiculously catchy, bopping, punchy and delightful ditty. Get ready for her comeback album, titled Queen of Me, dropping next month.

MYRON ELKINS / “Factories, Farms & Amphetamines”
Writer: Myron Elkins; Producer: Dave Cobb; Label: Elektra/Low Country Sounds
–The title track of Elkins’ album (due Jan. 13), is a bruising country rocker delivered in an urgent, blue-eyed soul roar. It’s a gritty word portrait of folks in a dead-end town that’s kinda hair-raising. The mix is a little muddy for my taste, but this shows real promise. Looking forward to more.

CHARLES KELLEY / “As Far As You Could”
Writers: Charles Kelley/Dave Haywood/Jimmy Robbins; Producers: Dave Haywood/Jimmy Robbins; Label: Big Machine
–Deeply moving and nakedly confessional, this is Kelley’s farewell letter to alcohol. The track is guided by his bandmate Haywood’s piano while the Lady A singer stretches into his upper vocal range to convey the tale of something that led him at first to high times and then to darkest lows. Heart stopping. Powerful.

BRANDON RATCLIFF / “Drove Me Country”
Writers: Brandon Ratcliff/Pete Good/AJ Babcock/Shane McAnally; Producers: Pete Good/AJ Babcock; Label: Monument
–One of my most anticipated albums of the new year drops tomorrow (Jan. 6). It’s Tale of Two Towns by Brandon Ratcliff, and this is its latest advance track. He’s a terrific singer, and this snappy, strummed ballad is a superb showcase of his skills. Big-city life has got him down, so he’s headed back to his Louisiana roots. I remain an enormous fan of this newcomer. He’s all heart and soul.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Reba Shows The Power Of The Holidays On ‘I Needed Christmas’

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I know, I know, you’re busy, busy, busy—so I’m here to help with one less task, your Nashville Christmas playlist.

Not to worry, it’s all good this year. With Dolly & Willie, Runaway June, Bryan Ruby and The War & Treaty in the mix, how can you lose?

Reba McEntire wins the Disc of the Day. Landon Parker earns the DISCovery Award.

Happy holidays to one and all.

RUNAWAY JUNE / “Cowboy for Christmas”
Writers: Jennifer Wayne/Natalie Stovall/Paul Sikes/Stevie Woodward; Producer: Paul Sikes; Label: RJ
–Bluesy & finger snapping, this ditty sports flawless trio harmonies and a swinging, full-band arrangement. Sparkling.

DOLLY PARTON & WILLIE NELSON / “Pretty Paper”
Writer: Willie Nelson; Producer: Kent Wells; Label: Warner Records
–Dolly has reissued her 2020 album A Holly Dolly Christmas with the addition of new tunes from her current holiday TV special. This track captures two of country music’s greatest gifts to American culture together on one of the most exquisitely sad songs of the season. Dolly’s plaintive, heart-in-throat delivery is matched by Willie’s laconic, effortlessly great harmony vocal and some of his distinctive guitar plucking. A pair of timeless treasures on a timeless tune.

DEBORAH ALLEN / “Moody Bluesy Christmas”
Writers: none listed; Producer: none listed; Label: BFD
–This straight-up blues tune is served up by Allen’s always reliable soul soprano and some dandy electric guitar noodling. She heats up a winter night.

REBA McENTIRE / “I Needed Christmas”
Writers: Jared Conrad/Trannie Anderson; Producers: Doug Sisemore/Reba McEntire; Label: UMG
–Heart-touchingly lovely. The ballad is about the healing romantic power of the holiday. Reba sings with class and restraint, letting the lyric of renewal shine. Essential listening.

GABBY BARRETT / “Silent Night”
Writer: Public Domain; Producer: Ross Copperman; Label: Warner
–Very sweet. The Pennsylvania youngster sang this with simple, spare accompaniment on the CMA Country Christmas special. Her innocent soprano is perfectly lilting on the classic hymn.

DRAKE WHITE / “Pound Cake”
Writers: Ben Chapman/Drake White; Producer: Jonathan Singleton; Label: DW
–This one’s a blue-eyed soul performance in praise of a sweet treat, with perhaps a touch of double entendre.

LANDON PARKER / “Tennessee Christmas”
Writers: Gary Chapman/Amy Grant; Producer: Blake Chancey; Label: Bad Ass Records
–Parker gives the Amy Grant 1983 chestnut a countrified twang while perfectly arranged piano and strings surround him. He might be a North Carolinian, but he makes this Volunteer State classic sound as authentic as chestnuts roasting on an open fire.

HONEY COUNTY / “Sugar on Snow”
Writers: Danielle Rosner/Stone Aieli; Producer: none listed; Label: HC
–She beckons her ex to Colorado to experience sugar on snow and reawaken their romance. Crispy and poppy, shiny and bright.

BRYAN RUBY / “Christmas With You”
Writers: Bryan Ruby/Kayleigh DeLozier/Kristin Denton/Chad Sellers/David Ross; Producer: Smith Curry; Label: BR
–Highly recommended. Ruby warms up the room with his expressive baritone on this bluesy romantic outing. The cool, new, Yule tune was co-written with MusicRow founder David M. Ross.

THE WAR & TREATY / “O Holy Night”
Writers: Traditional; Producer: none listed; Label: UMG
–The War & Treaty stopped the show of the CMA Country Christmas TV special with their electrifying performance of my favorite carol. The greatest new Nashville act of the year strikes again. Essential listening.

JANELLE ARTHUR & THE ISAACS / “One Night on Earth”
Writers: Janelle Arthur/Helene Cronin/Adam Wheeler; Producers: Janelle Arthur/Adam Wheeler; Label: CDX
–Devout, elegant and stately. Arthur’s sweet soprano leads the way on this ballad while the Opry’s greatest harmony ensemble wafts softly in accompaniment. All is calm, all is bright.

JD SHELBURNE / “Away in a Manger”
Writer: William J. Kirkpatrick; Producer: none listed; Label: JD
–A little percussion, a little twangin’ electric guitar and some stinging steel play along as Shelburne takes this traditional tune out for a hillbilly waltz. Country as grits.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Nicolle Galyon Gives A Lesson In ‘Self Care’

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Unlike county music, the Americana field is brimming with female headliners.

This edition of DISClaimer spotlights seven of them–Joy Oladokun, Larkin Poe, Sierra Ferrell, Michelle Branch, Karen Waldrup, Nicolle Galyon and Kelsey Waldon. Waldrup is probably the best singer of the bunch, and Branch has the best production. Galyon has the songwriting chops, and Larkin Poe rocks hardest.

Mind you, there are male contenders, too, notably Nathaniel Rateliff, Devon Gilfillian, Sam Bush, The Milk Carton Kids and the Lone Bellow.

The easiest choice to make is the DISCovery Award. That’s a tossup, shared by Devon Gilfillian and Sierra Ferrell, two Nashville artists who demonstrate how diverse Music City’s sounds are.

Our songwriting community has produced few talents as bright as Nicolle Galyon. In a highly competitive stack of sounds, she wins the Disc of the Day.

THE LONE BELLOW / “Unicorn”
Writers: Zach Williams/Trent Dabbs/Brian Elmquist; Producers: Brian Elmquist/Jacob Sooter; Label: Dualtone
–Enchanting. Lead singer Zach Williams croons an echoey love lyric that swoons with cloud-like beauty. You’ll find this gorgeous gem on the band’s new Love Songs for Losers Collection. And you should. At once.

JORDY & JOY OLADOKUN / “I Get High”
Writers: none listed; Producer: Drew Polovick; Label: 300 Entertainment
–Rising pop artist Jordy teams with Americana star Oladokun as his collaborator on this new version of his elegant, escapist stoner anthem. Multiple sonic layers pile sound on sound as they swirl in tune. Joy Oladokun performed at the White House on Tuesday to celebrate President Biden signing the Respect for Marriage Act (as did Cyndi Lauper and Sam Smith). Oladokun also dropped a new single this week. It’s a dramatic anthem called “Power” from the soundtrack of an Al Sharpton documentary.

SIERRA FERRELL / “Hey Me, Hey Mama”
Writers: Ray Charles/Jack Lamontagne; Producer: none listed; Label: Rounder
–I’m still waiting for her sophomore album to drop. In the meantime, this jaunty, bluesy, acoustic performance will have to do. Sierra has haunted me all year long. She’s playing a hometown show at Brooklyn Bowl on New Year’s Eve. If you’ve never seen her live, I urge you to do so. She’s a superb showoman, just as dynamic on stage as she is on records. Also, Ferrell is on the bill of “Hello From the Hills,” an all-star Kentucky benefit concert at City Winery on Jan. 7.

DEVON GILFILLIAN / “Let the Water Flow”
Writers: Devon Gilfillian/Ran Jackson/Henry Brill; Producer: Jeremy Lutitio; Label: Fantasy
–This Nashvillian first attracted my attention with his audacious re-recording of Marvin Gaye’s masterpiece What’s Going On. He has also emerged as a champion of social justice. “Let the Water Flow” was issued to coincide with our recent mid-term elections. It’s a soulful plea for voting rights and true democracy. The slow, deliberate ballad depicts Georgia folks standing and suffering for hours, just to cast a vote. A gospel organ and choir gradually come into the mix, lending the track extra power.

SAM BUSH / “Radio John”
Writers: Sam Bush/John Pennell; Producer: none listed; Label: Smithsonian Folkways
–This is the title tune of a tribute CD to the late John Hartford. Bush and band kick up serious instrumental dust while the singer-songwriter wails the lyric reflecting Hartford’s biography and music. Joyous, dazzling and pulse-quickening.

KELSEY WALDON / ”Sweet Little Girl”
Writer: Kelsey Waldon; Producer: Shooter Jennings; Label: Oh Boy
–The Washington Post has declared that Kelsey Waldon’s current No Regular Dog collection is “this year’s best country album.” Her single from it is a thumping, moody, fiddle-embellished country rocker with loads of echoey atmosphere and a lyric about a lost soul on the Hillbilly Highway. The talented Waldon is booked to play The Station Inn tomorrow night (Dec. 16).

NATHANIEL RATELIFF & THE NIGHT SWEATS / “Face Down in the Moment”
Writer: Nathaniel Rateliff; Producers: Brad Cook/RMB/Elijah Thomson; Label: Stax
–I remain a big fan. As always, this act pours soul and passion into its stately performance. A steady, marching tempo is the backdrop for Rateliff’s emoting. The track becomes ever more dense, soaring and audio loaded as it moves toward its finale. This has deservedly become a big Americana hit.

NICOLLE GALYON / “Self Care”
Writers: Nicolle Galyon/Sasha Sloan/Caroline Baker; Producers: King Henry/Jimmy Robbins; Label: Songs & Daughters
–This Nashville tunesmith’s album is a garden of delights. I’m particularly fond of this emphasis track. It is simultaneously tuneful and conversational, poetic and catchy. The lyric is about eschewing botox, hair dye, self-improvement, spiritual expansion and the like in favor of loving who you are, just as you are. “I think I like me,” indeed. An essential for your playlist.

KAREN WALDRUP / “All American Mistake”
Writers: Marcus Hummon/Stephanie Chapman; Producers: Biff Watson/Paul Worley; Label: KW
–Waldrup’s second album, Kendall County Road, is just as potent as her first was. Its emphasis track is the tale of a hopeful survivor. She stumbles in marriage but emerges with a baby she loves. As before, her country vocal is a beacon of truth and believability.

THE MILK CARTON KIDS / “Running on Sweet Smile”
Writers: Joey Ryan/Kenneth Pattengale; Producer: Kenneth Pattengale; Label: Far Cry/Thirty Tigers
–This lilting ditty is a sneak peak at the acoustic duo’s 2023 album. It maintains the team’s sweet, folkie charm, but the sound has moved from that of an old-timey country duo and more toward Simon & Garfunkel territory. Highly recommended.

LARKIN POE / “Southern Comfort”
Writer: Rebecca Lovell; Producers: Larkin Poe/Tyler Bryant; Label: Tricki-Woo
–Blood Harmony is the new, sixth album by this Nashville rock duo of sisters. This is its single, an electrified stomper about missing your roots. Compelling listening, as is always the case with these strong attitude women.

MICHELLE BRANCH / “Not My Lover”
Writer: Michelle Branch; Producers: Patrick Carney/Michelle Branch; Label: Audio Eagle/Nonesuch/Warner
–Sensual and kinda dreamy, this pop-rock outing features her breathy soprano vocals contrasted with a danceable, irresistibly rhythmic track. The production and perfect audio mix are stellar. Well worth your spins.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Trace Adkins & Melissa Etheridge Deliver An ‘Awesome Audio Outing’

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It may be winter outside, but I’m warm and cozy with a excellent stack of new country sounds.

Leading the hit parade is the thrilling teaming of Trace Adkins and Melissa Etheridge. They are a bonfire in their first duet performance, an unchallenged Disc of the Day.

Also turning in quality work are Brett Young, Jenny Tolman, Jimmie Allen (with Cheat Codes), Helene Cronin and Benjy Davis (with Ashley McBryde). Speaking of Benjy Davis, the presence of the Louisiana stylist along with fellow column newcomers Mike Ryan and Emily Nenni gives us a healthy crop from which to choose a DISCovery Award. I’m giving Benjy the nod.

ASHLEY McBRYDE & BENJY DAVIS / “Gospel Night at the Strip Club”
Writers: Ashley McBryde/Brandy Clark/Banjy Davis/Connie Harrington/Nicolette Hayford/Aaron Raitiere; Producer: John Osborne; Label: Warner
–Despite the billing, this is Benjy’s gritty performance all the way. The Louisiana jazzbo’s downbeat rasp and the stark acoustic production form the perfect audio frame for this extraordinary lyric of redemption for all. I don’t care who’s singing it, this is a brilliant song.

SHANE PROFITT / “Country Boys”
Writers: Shane Profitt/Blake Bollinger/Nate Kenyon; Producer: Julian Raymond; Label: Big Machine
–“How It Oughta Be” remains the single, but this rouser is bound to please redneck listeners. The lyric trots out every bro’ country cliche in the book–beer, bonfire, hunting, fishing, snuff, pickup truck, grain alcohol, blue jeans, guns, tractor, pasture/holler countryside, yadda, yadda, yadda.

JENNY TOLMAN / “It’s a Boy”
Writers: Jenny Tolman/Corey Wagar; Producer: Dave Brainard; Label: JT
–Longtime DISClaimer favorite Tolman is due to deliver her first child on Christmas Eve. This lilting, melodic and utterly lovely song celebrates the upcoming event with joy and sweet sentiment. Also, she sings her face off. Play this.

BRETT YOUNG / “You Ain’t Here to Kiss Me”
Writers: Brett Young/Matthew James Alderman/Tiffany Lane Goss; Producer: Dann Huff; Label: BMLG
–His lovelorn vocal is bolstered at every turn by a churning, chiming production. It’s New Year’s Eve and he’s drinking alone in a window seat on an airliner. This one’s definitely a keeper.

CHEAT CODES & JIMMIE ALLEN / “Lose You”
Writers: Nick Bailey/Levon Grey/Eric Aukstikalnis/Josh Hoge/Karolis Labanauskas/Kyle Fishman/Trevor Dahl; Producers: Nick Bailey/Trevor Dahl/Kyle Fishman/Leondis/Embody/Aukoustics; Label: CC
–The pop trio has an album of all-country collaborations due next month. Among Cheat Codes’ many guests on their One Night in Nashville album will be Russell Dickerson, Lee Brice, LBT, Dolly, Brett Young and Lady A. This advance track is quite promising. The electro boys wisely stay out of Jimmie’s way, letting his assured vocal lead the way.

TRACE ADKINS & MELISSA ETHERIDGE / “Love Walks Through the Rain”
Writers: Marla Cannon-Goodman/Kelly Archer/Mickey Jack Cones; Producer: Mickey Jack Cones/Derek George; Label: Verge
–This is electrifying. The stormy, dramatic power ballad is sung to the utmost by these two charisma factories. Trace’s background in gospel shines through in his vocal harmony work, and Melissa matches him lick for lick. When they take turns burning down the barn on their verses, shivers go through the body. An awesome audio outing.

HELENE CRONIN & MATT KING / “Landmarks”
Writers: Ava Paige Davis/Helene Cronin; Producer: Matt King; Label: HKC
–Her folkie alto is intimate and expressive on this ballad about finding your way home. King shadows her in phrase-perfect vocal harmony. An eloquent song, eloquently and exquisitely sung.

PARKER McCOLLUM / “Stoned”
Writers: Parker McCollum/Brett James/Mark Holman; Producer: Jon Randall; Label: MCA
–This new shooting star continues to go from strength to strength. On this crashing, bluesy ballad, he wails expressively about self medicating to stave off loneliness. He’s as terrific as ever, but the too-big production should have been turned down.

EMILY NENNI / “In the Mornin’”
Writers: Emily Nenni/Michael LoPinto; Producers: Emily Nenni/Miko Eli; Label: New West/
Normaltown
–Charming. She’s a free-spirited gal who’s warning her beau that she’ll be hitting the road once their one-night-stand is over. She’s a solidly country singer and the funky band twangs right along. I dig her moxie.

PARMALEE / “Girl in Mine”
Writers: Ashley Gorley/Casey Brown/David Fanning/Matt Thomas/Travis Wood; Producer: David Fanning; Label: Stoney Creek
–Jaunty and upbeat, if not particularly meaningful.

MIKE RYAN / “Die Runnin’”
Writers: Barrett Baber/Korey Hunt/Dan Martin Alley; Producers: Bart Butler/Ryan Gore; Label: MR
–Ryan delivers like a pro, swearing to get to her in times of trouble. The country-rock track kicks up some dust. But it’s the song and its oomphy vocal delivery that shine brightest. He’s an indie success story worth your attention. The Opry featured him on its stage last month.

TYLER BRADEN & SYDNEY SIEROTA / “Try Losing One”
Writers: Tyler Wayne Davis/Adam Newman Wood/Tyler Braden; Producers: Adam Wood/Randy Montana; Label: Warner
–Braden’s solo performance of this is already a masterpiece, so I see no reason to add Echosmith’s Sierota to the song. Especially since she is nowhere near his class as a vocalist. Anyhow, I’m supportive of anything that makes this man the star he deserves to be.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Dierks Bentley & Billy Strings Delight On New Duet

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Country music’s men don’t have a lot to say, but they sure sound good doing it.

Lyrically, we have a crop of singles here that are either positive love songs or warmly nostalgic vignettes. There are strong vocal performances from Sam Hunt, Keith Urban, CB30 and Granger Smith.

Finishing in a dead heat for Disc of the Day are the ever-soulful Nate Smith and the team of Dierks Bentley & Billy Strings. Dierks gets the nod because he’s outside the box with a weed-loving lyric.

George Birge has no such competition for this week’s DISCovery Award.

NATE SMITH / “Wreckage”
Writers: Chris Sligh/Mary Kutter/Nate Smith/Paul Wrock; Producer: Joel Bruyere; Label: Arista
–The passion this man puts into his recorded performances never fails to stop me in my tracks. On this torrid outing, he pours emotion into a power ballad that praises a partner who loves him with all his faults. His debut album is finally coming on Feb. 17 next year. I, for one, cannot wait.

WALKER HAYES / “Face in the Crowd”
Writers: Walker Hayes/Emily Falvey/Tofer Brown; Producers: Walker Hayes/Joe Thibodeau; Label: Monument
–He’s not the world’s strongest singer, but the sincerity in this earnest, sweet performance is undeniable. It’s an ode to his wife, the “face in the crowd” who’s the only one who matters in his rocket ship career. He hopes that when his 15 minutes of fame ends, she’ll still be by his side.

BLANCO BROWN & T.I. / “Trap Still Bumpin’”
Writers: Blanco Brown/T.I.; Producers: Tre Trax/Blanco Brown; Label: Cinq
–Brown rode and performed “The Git Up” in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. That monster hit (reportedly 15 million sold) is an example of his self-anointed country sub-genre, “trailer trap” music. Now he’s teaming up with T.I. “the king of trap music.” The result is more Atlanta hip-hop than it is country music, but the “stoner,” easy-going groove is mesmerizing.

GRANGER SMITH / “Moonrise”
Writers: Andy Albert/Granger Smith/Jordan Schmidt/Justin Wilson; Producers: Granger Smith/John Marlin; Label: Wheelhouse Records
–This intensely romantic power ballad is produced and sung beautifully. I especially loved the extended, echoey, instrumental fade at the end. It’s the title tune of Smith’s first starring movie, which premieres via Pureflix on Dec. 15.

BRIAN KELLEY / “Florida Strong”
Writers: Brian Kelley”; Producers: Brian Kelley/Katlin Owen; Label: Big Machine
–It’s a jaunty, chin-up song dedicated to the resilience of Sunshine Staters. I could have done without the spoken-word bridge. Royalty proceeds benefit the Florida Disaster Fund and the Red Cross.

DIERKS BENTLEY & BILLY STRINGS / “High Note”
Writers: Charlie Worsham/Jim Beavers; Producers: Dierks Bentley/Ross Copperman/Jon Randall/F. Reid Shippen/Brett Beavers; Label: Capitol
–A total delight. Dierks and Billy sing the praises of weed in this witty, bluegrassy romp. Those fleet-fingered guitar notes rippling through the thing come courtesy of reigning Bluegrass Entertainer of the Year Billy plus the always welcome Charlie Worsham.

CLEDUS T. JUDD / “Shoot a Deer”
Writers: Cledus T. Judd/Chris Clark; Producer: none listed; Label: CDX
–Sung to the tune of Luke Byran’s “Drink a Beer,” this parody goofs around with silly hunting imagery. The video features Cledus and someone in a deer costume competing for laughs in the woods. You might not chuckle out loud, but I guarantee you’ll smile.

KEITH URBAN / “Street Called Main”
Writers: Chris LaCorte/Josh Miller/Scooter Carusoe; Producers: Keith Urban/Dann Huff; Label: Capitol
–This one’s another from Urban’s apparently bottomless well of uptempo love celebrations. Cheerful, joyously toe-tapping, bright and sunny. Highly listenable. But the radio single remains the also hearty “Brown Eyes Baby.”

GEORGE BIRGE / “Mind on You”
Writers: George Birge/Jaron Boyer/Michael Tyler/Colt Ford; Producers: Ash Bowers; Label: RECORDS/Sony
–A fevered dream of obsessive romance that swirls with electronics and hypnotic lyric repetition. Birge staged his Opry debut with it on Nov. 22.

SAM HUNT / “Start Nowhere”
Writers: Sam Hunt/Zach Crowell/Shane McAnally/Josh Osborne; Producers: Zach Crowell/Chris LaCorte/Shane McAnally/Sam Hunt; Label: MCA Nashville
–Very sweet. Hunt sings in a soft, heartfelt tenor as he wistfully ponders his youthful innocence. This one is ideal for the holiday season, since it yearns for hearth and home.

ALEX MILLER / “When God Made the South”
Writers: Jerry Salley/Aaron Wilburn/Lee Black; Producer: none listed; Label: Billy Jam
–The 6’6” American Idol alum rocks out on this Dixie anthem. At just 19, Miller is still maturing as a vocalist. In a few years, he’ll be able to bring out the baritone dips that this melody should have.

CB30 / “Now We’re Talkin’”
Writers: Christian Clementi/Brody Clementi/Dan Agee/Nick Wayne; Producer: Paul DiGiovanni; Label: Buena Vista
–These two brothers always bring a youthful vibe to a listening session. This groove-soaked bopper is a cute barroom pick-up ditty with a smart, innovative production. Highly engaging, as always.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Jordan Davis Gives ‘The Sound Of A Superstar In Training’

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Do you feel it? There’s enormous warmth in today’s DISClaimer releases.

Leading the way for the women are newcomer Rachel Wammack, veteran Kelly Lang and feisty Elle King. The men march arm-in-arm with equal emotion, paced by Mitchell Tenpenny, Brantley Gilbert, Brandon Ratcliff, Country Music Hall of Famer Marty Stuart and our Disc of the Day winner, Jordan Davis.

What all these folks have in common is the genuine warmth that only great country music can bring to the table.

WARREN ZEIDERS & SUECO / “Ride It Hard”
Writers: Colin Brittain/Sueco/Warren Zeiders; Producer: Colin Brittain; Label: Warner
–This wild, frothing country rocker polishes Warren’s punk/outlaw image to a sheen. The NASCAR-spoofing video is worth some grins.

ELLE KING / “Jersey Giant”
Writer: Tyler Childers; Producers: Elle King/Charlie Worsham; Label: RCA
–Her twang is fully unfurled on this jaunty bopper. She’s turned down her brassy schtick in favor of a straightforward, hillbilly-acoustic approach, and the result is a refreshing delight.

MATT STELL / “One of Us”
Writers: Gavin Slate/James Barker/Jim McCormick/Travis Wood; Producers: Matt Stell/Ash Bowers; Label: Records
–Here we go again. The pick-up truck, the beer, the dirt road, the small town “keepin’ it country” thang.

MORGAN WADE / “The Night”
Writer: Morgan Wade; Producer: Sadler Vaden; Label: Sony
–This cuts close to the bone, touching on her mental-health and substance issues. The quasi-spoken verses are starkly accompanied by solo percussion, and the choruses are fleshed out with electric guitars while she wails about resisting the temptation to drink. A little scary and a lot effective.

MARTY STUART & HIS FABULOUS SUPERLATIVES / “Country Star”
Writer: Marty Stuart; Producers: Marty Stuart/Mick Conley/Harry Stinson/Kenny Vaughan/Chris Scruggs; Label: Spinefarm
–This is a boatload of fun, packed with guitar twang and merry rhythm. The band rocks righteously as Marty drawls of hitting the road as a hillbilly minstrel. Get on board. Marty will be inducted into the Musicians Hall of Fame next Tuesday and will celebrate his 30th anniversary as an Opry member on Nov. 26.

MARGO PRICE / “Lydia”
Writer: Margo Price; Producers: Jonathan Wilson/Margo Price; Label: Loma Vista
–Delivered in an echo-laden alto, this is a character study of a woman in crisis. Strings shimmer in the background as she sings of gritty street reality, forlorn pregnancy, loneliness, self-doubt, substance abuse and more. It doesn’t have a traditional song structure; more like a stream-of-conscience meandering. Decidedly downbeat and radio resistant.

BRANDON RATCLIFF / “Someone Who Believes In You”
Writers: Brandon Ratcliff/Pete Good/Josh Jenkins/AJ Babcock; Producers: Pete Good/AJ Babcock; Label: Monument
–The power of love, set to an R&B groove, a sunny attitude and a lively beat. As usual, his tenor singing is splendid.

RACHEL WAMMACK / “Girl’s Gotta Know”
Writers: Rachel Wammack/Jim McCormick; Producer: Andy Skib; Label: RCA
–Enchanting. She sings like a country angel, and the wistful lyric about seeking The One is completely heartfelt. A simply lovely performance.

MITCHELL TENPENNY / “We Got History”
Writers: Mitchell Tenpenny/Andy Albert/Devin Dawson/Jordan Schmidt; Producers: Mitchell Tenpenny/Jordan Schmidt; Label: Riser House/Columbia
–Tenpenny is on a roll. With twin chart toppers under his belt (”Truth About You” and “At the End of a Bar”), he’s swinging for the fences again with this terrific rumbler. The extraordinary warmth in his singing infuses this ode to lost love. Play it again.

KELLY LANG / “Life Sentence”
Writers: Kelly Lang/Bruce Burch; Producer: none listed; Label: KL
–Lang possesses one of those lustrous alto singing voices that wraps you in intimacy. She has never been more involving than she is on this extraordinary, throbbing, heartfelt song. Instead of seeing cancer as a death sentence, this breast cancer survivor treats it as a “Life Sentence” to live and love and embrace the world with gusto. Essential listening, and the video featuring her fellow breast-cancer ladies is quite moving.

BRANTLEY GILBERT, BLAKE SHELTON & VINCE GILL / “Heaven By Then”
Writers: Brantley Gilbert/Brock Berryhill/Michael Hardy/Jake Mitchell/Randy Montana/Hunter Phelps/Taylor Phillips; Producers: Brantley Gilbert/Brock Berryhill; Label: Valory
–A smash, if I’ve ever heard one. Brantley on his own has vocal charisma to spare. The “extras” on this track make it utterly unforgettable. Blake trades verses and Vince overlays both men’s performances with awesome tenor harmony singing. “Heaven,” indeed.

JORDAN DAVIS / “Part of It”
Writers: Jordan Davis/Jacob Davis/Jordan Walker/Matt McKinney; Producer: Paul DiGiovanni; Label: MCA
–The “Buy Dirt” CMA Award winner returns with a dynamite, sweet/sad bit of philosophical wisdom. This is the sound of a superstar in training.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Luke Combs Proves CMA Entertainer Of The Year Status On New Single

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This is country music’s week to shine, so no wonder there is a cornucopia of tasty tracks in this week’s DISClaimer column.

Mickey Guyton, Chase Matthew and Luke Bryan bring the opening devotionals. Brothers Osborne, War & Treaty and Chase Rice rock the house.

But it’s the most “country” of the country releases that rule the day. They belong to the divine Miranda Lambert, the sublime Dailey & Vincent, the hearty Eddie Montgomery and the King of the Hill, Luke Combs. The Entertainer of the Year also has the Disc of the Day

Give a DISCovery Award to Warner newcomer Chase Matthew.

LUKE BRYAN / “Prayin’ in a Deer Stand”
Writers: Luke Bryan/Nicolle Galyon/Jimmy Robbins; Producer: Jody Stevens/Jeff Stevens; Label: Capitol
–Good listening. The echo on his vocal is big help, and the vibrating, atmospheric electric guitars in the production are dynamite. I doubt that there is a huge percentage of listeners who spend their Sundays hunting deer, but whatever….

JESSIE JAMES DECKER / “Grow Young With You”
Writers: Emily Weisband/Alysa Vanderheym/Jordyn Shellhart; Producer: Alysa Vanderheym; Label: Big Yellow Dog/Warner/Atlantic
–This multi-hyphenate seems to hit on all available platforms, from books to fashion to TV to music. As before, she proves to be a fine singer on this choppy, clappy bopper about a sunny love. I always like the little falsetto hiccoughs in her delivery.

LUKE COMBS / “Going, Going Gone”
Writers: James McNair/Luke Combs/Ray Fulcher; Producer: Luke Combs/Chip Matthews/Jonathan Singleton; Label: River House/Columbia
–This is a lovely change of pace. Combs exchanges his brawling, bruising vocal style for a gentler, more contemplative delivery. He’s wistful yet resigned over a lost love. As usual, the song is a model of country craftsmanship. He so deserves every award we give him.

BRITTNEY SPENCER / “A Hundred Years Old”
Writers: Ashley Ray/Brittney Spencer/Sean McConnell; Producer: Daniel Tashian; Label: Elektra
–Does this artist set the record for the longest set-up ever for a real radio release? She’s on television, in social media, on others’ records, in print and all over the map without ever actually stepping up to bat. Now she has a new live EP recorded acoustically at Blackbird Studio. This charming, wafting, yearning performance is yet another tease. The lady has the talent. Somebody light a fire under this career kindling.

EDDIE MONTGOMERY / “Thank a Beer Drinker”
Writers: Wynn Varble/David Lee/Don Poythress; Producers: Noah Gordon/Shannon Houchins; Label: Average Joe’s
–Like that road you drive on? How about the food you eat, the electricity in your house, running water and the car you own? Give thanks to the blue-collar folks who keep our factories and our infrastructure running. I love the message of this. Eddie delivers it perfectly. Oh by the way, he adds, if you like this song, thank another beer drinker.

MIRANDA LAMBERT / “Geraldene”
Writers: Miranda Lambert/Jack Ingram/Jon Randall; Producers: Jon Randall/Luke Dick/Miranda Lambert; Label: RCA
–With her performance of this at the CMA Awards, Lambert again demonstrated that she is the finest, pure-country female singer in our current music biz. She calls out a temptress with just the right touches of envy and smoldering threats. The spare, snappy track keeps things crackling. It’s a model of restraint, throwing the spotlight on her superb, twangin’ delivery. “Geraldine” is just one of the many gems on her 15-track Palomino collection. Available on double vinyl, by the way.

CHASE MATTHEW / “She Loves Jesus”
Writers: Chase Matthews/Will Pattat; Producer: Austin Shawn; Label: Warner
–Nashville native Matthew stages his Warner Music debut with this pristine ballad about a pure, devout, beautiful woman. His mellow baritone is loaded with warmth. The steel guitar and piano accompaniment is poetry.

MICKEY GUYTON / “I Still Pray”
Writers: Mickey Guyton/Tyler Hubbard/Ryan Daly/Steph Jones; Producer: Corey Crowder/Tyler Hubbard/Ryan Daly; Label: Capitol
–One associates praying with silence. But Guyton’s emotional soprano is a shout of blazing affirmation as she explains the depth of her devotion. An extraordinary, stately vocal performance by one of our most gifted artists.

DAILEY & VINCENT WITH RHONDA VINCENT / “Those Memories of You”
Writers: Alan O’Bryant; Producer: Paul Worley; Label: DV
–The harmonies in this performance will send shivers through your whole body. Opry greats Dailey & Vincent have turned from bluegrass to country on their new CD, but this bluesy, electrified revival of the Dolly/Linda/Emmylou 1987 smash proves their vocal backgrounds are solidly in place. Jamie Dailey’s lead vocal is a masterpiece, and the thrilling support of the Vincent siblings sends the whole thing into the stratosphere. Breathtaking is the word.

BROTHERS OSBORNE WITH THE WAR & TREATY / “It’s Only Rock ‘N’ Roll (But I Like It)”
Writers: Keith Richards/Mick Jagger; Producer: Robert Deaton/Danny Rader; Label: BMG
–The forthcoming Stoned Cold Country is an all-star Nashville tribute to the songs of the Rolling Stones. These two sterling duos join forces for its first advance track, which they introduced on the CMA Awards. T.J. kicked it off in a deep, rumbling baritone. Tanya lit the track ablaze. Michael shot off fireworks, then the whole ensemble burned the house down. The official studio track underwhelms by comparison.

CHASE RICE / “Way Down Yonder”
Writers: Blake Pendergrass/Chase Rice/Corey Crowder/Hunter Phelps/John Byron; Producer: Oscar Charles; Label: BBR
–A menacing, loud outlaw anthem with big percussion and an abundance of attitude. It wears out its welcome fairly quickly.

CARTER FAITH / “Already Crazy”
Writers: Carter Faith/Tofer Brown/Lauren Hungate; Producer: Tofer Brown; Label: CF
–The lyric is very nicely crafted and her vocal is spot on. I kept waiting for the ballad’s track to take off, but it stuck with its piano-and-strings wash throughout.