DISClaimer Single Reviews: Country Stylists Give ‘Utterly Enchanting’ Version Of Adele Hit

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Lukas Nelson. Photo: Shervin Lainez

Three generations of stylists compete in this country edition of DISClaimer.

Sweet nostalgia washed over me at hearing great new sounds from heritage artists Bill Anderson, Ray Benson and Dwight Yoakam. Modern veterans Miranda Lambert and Luke Bryan are still swinging for the fences.

And then there are the youngsters—Julie Williams, Justin Moore, Carl Ray, Post Malone and their contemporaries. They have new sounds you need to hear, too. Riding atop this group are Lukas Nelson, Sierra Ferrell and The Travelin’ McCourys, whose outstanding collaboration brings us our Disc of the Day.

LUKE BRYAN / “Country Song Came On”
Writers: Ryan Beaver/Dan Alley/Neil Medley; Producer: Jeff Stevens, Jody Stevens; Label: Capitol
– The single remains “Love You, Miss You, Mean It,” but Bryan has been issuing further preview tracks from his upcoming (Sept. 27) album. This one is about how hearing country music makes him want to drink. Really? I guess if you say so.

BRELAND / “Icing”
Writers: Breland/Jared Griffin/Rufio Hooks/Autumn Buysse; Producers: Sam Sumser, Sean Small & Noby Sidez; Label: Atlantic
– Wildly entertaining. The rapid-fire lyric, interjected screams, finger snaps, relentless tempo and non-stop energy are the recipe for a frothing audio stew.

CARL RAY / “Caney Fork”
Writers: Carl Ray Williams/Wood Newton/Daniel Johnson; Producer: Mike Loudermilk; Label: Sucarnochee
– Innocent, sunny, jaunty, acoustic, charming and country, country, country. Young love sounds so sweet in this outdoorsy tune. Carl Ray is a Black bluegrass artist who stages a mighty bid for mainstream country exposure here.

MIRANDA LAMBERT / “Dammit Randy”
Writers: Miranda Lambert/Brendan McLoughlin/Jon Randall; Producer: Miranda Lambert & Jon Randall; Label: Republic
– Postcards From Texas drops tomorrow as Miranda’s new collection, her first for Republic. This ultra-confident, twanging, feisty performance from it celebrates female independence with verve. Platinum personality on parade.

LUKAS NELSON feat. THE TRAVELIN’ McCOURYS & SIERRA FERRELL / “Someone Like You”
Writers: Dan Wilson/Adele Adkins; Producer: none listed; Label: LN
– Yes, it’s the 2011 Adele pop hit delivered by super country stylists Nelson and Ferrell, backed by the bluegrass picking of the McCourys. First of all, it is utterly enchanting. Second of all, I would love to hear these two singers together more often. Third of all, drop what you are doing and glue your ears to this when it drops tomorrow. A single that’s truly an event.

JUSTIN MOORE / “Love Your Hometown”
Writers: Justin Moore/Will Bundy/Randy Montana/Jeremy Stover; Producers: Jeremy Stover, Scott Borchetta & Paul DiGiovanni; Label: Valory
– It’s a love letter to an overseas soldier, reminding her that her hometown still thinks the world of her and that he’s patiently waiting. With its range and emotion, this is arguably Moore’s finest vocal to date.

JETT HOLDEN / “Scarecrow”
Writer: Jett Holden; Producer: Will Hoge; Label: Black Opry
– He sings with fierce commitment. The song uses the characters of the Scarecrow, the Tin Man and the Cowardly Lion to communicate his emotional turmoil in coming out as gay to his Jehovah’s Witness family. As I have mentioned before, his songwriting needs a professional collaborator/editor to make it less wordy and more commercial.

DWIGHT YOAKAM & POST MALONE / “I Don’t Know How to Say Goodbye”
Writer: Dwight Yoakam; Producer: Dwight Yoakam; Label: Via Records/Thirty Tigers
– Yoakam is breaking his silence of nine years to issue a new album in November. Its advance single is a twang-fest two stepper embellished with stuttering steel and bounced fiddle bows. Post Malone keeps up with the neo-traditionalist in the hilibilly vocal department. A joyous collaboration. Country excellence on the hoof.

DENITIA / “Sunset Drive”
Writers: Denitia/Brad Allen Williams; Producer: Denitia & Brad Allen Williams; Label: Denitia
– Denitia has had a fine year, staging her debut at the Opry, being in CMT’s Next Women of Country class, touring with the Black Opry Revue, headlining at Nashville Pride and issuing her debut album last week. Its title tune perfectly weds her lilting soprano to a gently breezy rhythmic track and a sweet/sad relationship lyric. Very pretty listening.

BILL ANDERSON / “The Last One I’ll Forget”
Writers: Bill Anderson/Steve Dorff; Producer: Steve Dorff; Label: MCA Nashville/UMe
– The timeless Opry veteran emotes beautifully on this softly contemplative ballad of enduring love in old age. I promise that this will tug at your heartstrings. He’s still got the goods.

JULIE WILLIAMS / “Just Friends?”
Writers: Julie Williams/Melody Walker; Producer: Jonathan Smalt; Label: JW
– I have long been a fan of this country stylist. Her songwriting has always had a poignant vibe, and her soprano singing is exemplary. This eloquently produced, twinkling, alt-folk tune is accompanied by an overtly queer-female video treatment.

RAY BENSON / “Get Your Kicks on Route 66”
Writer: Bobby Troup; Producer: Doctor Dread & Tony Garnier; Label: RB
– I know this sounds impossible, but this is an audio fusion of western swing and reggae. Believe it or not, it works. Benson’s jazzbo phrasing and the swinging sounds of Asleep at the Wheel members bump up against a funky Caribbean rhythm track. The album, Swingin’ and Swankin,’ features guest appearances by everyone from Willie Nelson and Lucky Oceans to Warren Haynes and Stanley Jordan.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Post Malone & Luke Combs Bring The ‘Sound Of Country Music Joy’

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Luke Combs and Post Malone

Ballads and boppers vie for our attention this week in DISClaimer.

On the ballad side of things, we present the great Jamey Johnson, the highly promising Hueston and the undeniable star power of Diffie/Keith/Combs. Picking up the honky-tonking tempo are Jon Pardi, Ella Langley & Riley Green, Chris Stapleton and Caylee Hammack.

The Disc of the Day comes from the “tempo” column, as Post Malone & Luke Combs show us just how splendidly country can rock and still be as country as grits.

The DISCovery Award goes to teen newcomer Carrie Brockwell.

HUESTON / “Still Alive & Kickin’”
Writers: Brandon Sammons/David Ray Stevens; Producer: BSAMZ; Label: Silver Wings/UMG
– The electronic pop track stays softly in the background, which gives plenty of space for his echoey, deeply soulful vocal. Refreshingly different. Highly promising.

JOE DIFFIE, TOBY KEITH & LUKE COMBS / “Ships That Don’t Come In”
Writers: Dave Gibson/Paul Nelson; Producers: Joe Diffie, Joey Moi, Lonnie Wilson; Label: Big Loud Records/Mercury Records
– This debuted during the Toby Keith tribute special that aired on NBC last week (Aug. 28). It is the last thing the star recorded before his death. To start with, the song is a masterwork. All three singers are country music vocal titans. Toby kicks it off, phrasing magnificently. Then Luke takes over, adding his special magic. Diffie, who was among the earliest COVID victims, brings his 1992 hit home with class and dignity. Country music heaven.

TANNER ADELL / “Silverado”
Writers: Akil “worldwidefresh” King/Anthony Germaine White/Ben Stennis/Jared Tyler Mullins/Stephen “Di Genius” McGregor/Tanner Adell; Producers: Akil “worldwidefresh” King, Stephen “Di Genius” McGregor, Tanner Adell; Label: LVRN Records
– You’d think with six songwriters that someone would have been able to come up with a melody. A few real instruments added to the hip-hop beats would have helped, too.

CHRIS STAPLETON / “Think I’m In Love With You”
Writer: Chris Stapleton; Producers: Chris Stapleton, Dave Cobb, Morgane Stapleton; Label: Mercury Nashville
– Totally awesome. A groove-soaked, rump shaking, classic soul sound. Stapleton is an artist who grips you tightly with every note he sings.

ELLA LANGLEY & RILEY GREEN / “You Look Like You Love Me”
Writers: Aaron Raitiere/Ella Langley/Riley Green; Producer: Will Bundy; Label: SAWGOD/Columbia
– Delightfully country. She’s tipsy and ready to be picked up. He’s willing and able. The whole honky-tonk is along for the ride.

JAMEY JOHNSON / “Sober”
Writers: James Slater/Jamey Johnson; Producer: Dave Cobb; Label: Big Gassed Records
– Johnson remains one of our most towering country vocalists, and this spare, stripped-down track lets him emote magnificently on the ballad. Harmonica, organ, piano and percussion frame his delivery of a lyric addressing the difficulty of staying sober in a culture that surrounds us with drinking celebration. The whole performance rings with honesty and truth. I love this artist so much.

CARTER FAITH / “Alright”
Writers: Ashley Monroe/Carter Faith/Tofer Brown; Producer: Tofer Brown; Label: UMG Nashville
– She handles the tricky melody with aplomb, and the track is imaginatively produced. The challenging attempt is quite admirable, and I remain a fan, but I don’t hear this as a “hit.”

JON PARDI / “Friday Night Heartbreaker”
Writers: Chris Tompkins/Daniel Ross/Jessie Jo Dillon/Josh Miller/Ryan Hurd; Producer: Jay Joyce; Label: Capitol Records Nashville
– Pardi is warning us about this gal. But she still sounds like an upbeat, honky-tonkin’ good time. Jump in.

CAYLEE HAMMACK / “Breaking Dishes”
Writers: Caylee Hammack/Gordie Sampson/Mikey Reaves; Producer: John Osborne; Label: Capitol Records Nashville
– She’s over him for good. The shuffling track is uber cool, and her singing, as always, is just terrific. This gal is busting with talent and has long deserved major stardom. Here’s hoping that this personality-packed bopper brings it to her. An A+ effort.

COREY KENT / “Black Bandana”
Writers: Brett Tyler/Corey Kent/Jordan Dozzi/Rocky Block; Producer: Chris Farren; Label: Sony Music Nashville
– The title tune of Kent’s album is a slow-burn anthem of persevering against all odds. When life gets tough, don’t wave a white flag of surrender. Be a black bandana and “give ‘em hell, don’t give up hope.” Gently but unrelentingly uplifting. This soulful kid has got something special.

CARRIE BROCKWELL / “Find A Way”
Writers: Carrie Brockwell/Christian Stalnecker; Producer: Brian Fechino; Label: CB
– The 18-year-old Belmont freshman is moving into her dorm while promoting this sparkling tune about her journey to Music Row. Twinkling mandolin notes, sighing steel, tasteful drumming and chiming guitars frame a heart-in-throat vocalist of assured ability. Startlingly accomplished for a teen talent.

POST MALONE & LUKE COMBS / “Guy For That”
Writers: Austin Post/Charlie Handsome/Ernest Keith Smith/Hoskins/James McNair/Louis Bell/Luke Combs; Producers: Charlie Handsome, Hoskins, Louis Bell; Label: Mercury Records/Republic Records
– The sound of country music joy. These two romp through this country rocker like a couple of colts let loose in a pasture. Turn it up and dance along.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Star-Studded Lineup Share Disc Of The Day

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Megan Moroney, Nate Smith and Zac Brown.

Summer is not singing its swan song in this Labor Day Weekend edition of DISClaimer.

Instead, the season is offering a soundtrack of remarkable vitality and quality. So much so, that picking winning sounds is really difficult. As a result, the Disc of the Day prized is divided in three. Our Female champ is the divine Megan Moroney. Capturing the Male prize is the steamrolling Nate Smith. For our Group/Duo winners, chalk another win up for the sunny Zac Brown Band.

It isn’t usually difficult to crown a DISCovery Award winner. But that choice, too, is a toughie. So I’m splitting it between The Band Loula and Mon Rovia. Happy listening.

CHARLIE PEACOCK / “Turtle In A Chinese Food Box”
Writer: Charlie Peacock; Producers: Charlie Peacock, Sam Ashworth; Label: Universal/Re-Think
– Charlie Peacock is and always has been a pop singer. But the lead track of his new LP sounds like skipping through a field of wildflowers, with Charlie McCoy’s harmonica, Dan Dugmore’s steel guitar and the rest of the light-hearted track giving it an undeniable country-music vibe. The lyric celebrates his innocent, youthful feelings at age 15, when he had the first date with his wife Andi. The rest of the album, titled Every Kind of Uh-Oh, showcases the brilliant producer/songwriter/keyboardist’s chops as a pop-jazz wizard. Peacock has produced more than 50 CCM albums and was behind the board for the Grammy-winning country-Americana records of The Civil Wars. BMI hosted a deluxe record-release party for the artist on Wednesday at RCA Studio A.  His memoir, Roots & Rhythm: A Life in Music, will be published in February.

NATE SMITH / “Fix What You Didn’t Break”
Writers: Ashley Gorley/Lindsay Rimes/Nate Smith/Taylor Phillips; Producer: Lindsay Rimes; Label: RCA Records Nashville
– His vocal and the track are very processed for country music, but this record is gorgeous however you label its sound. The uplifting, hopeful lyric is about the redemptive power of love, and Smith delivers it with heart.

BOOMTOWN SAINTS & SAM GROW / “Heart Breaks You”
Writers: Connie Harrington/Houston Phillips/Josh Dunne; Producers: Colt Ford, Gary Kraen, Noah Gordon; Label: 8 Track Entertainment/Average Joes Entertainment
– The handsome heartbreaker better watch out: Someday the heart that’s broken will belong to him. Soaring, melodic and oh-so listenable.

MEGAN MORONEY / “Am I Okay?”
Writers: Jessie Jo Dillon/Luke Laird/Megan Moroney; Producer: Kristian Bush; Label: Columbia Nashville/Columbia Records
– Ridiculously charming. She’s falling head over heels for a dreamboat who treats her right. So of course she thinks she’s going nuts. A bopper with a zillion smiles.

THE BAND LOULA / “Don’t Call Me”
Writers: Dave Barnes/Logan Simmons/Malachi Mills; Producer: John Osborne; Label: Warner Music Nashville
– It’s a smoldering, slow-burn, stately outing delivered by a pair of blue-eyed soul singers who really turn up the heat. Also check out their performance of “If I Never Stayed the Night.” Hailing from north Georgia, the male-female duo’s members are Malachi Mills and Logan Simmons. I hear stardom.

DYLAN SCOTT / “You’d Think I Was A Cowboy”
Writers: Dylan Scott/Jaxson Free/Michael Whitworth/Will Weatherly; Producers: Dylan Scott, Jaxson Free, Will Weatherly; Label: Curb Records
– Sorry. The lyric’s “western” metaphors all sound forced and phony.

MOORE & MOORE & JANIE FRICKE / “Dispatch The Angels”
Writer: Debbie Moore; Producer: Moore & Moore; Label: DOV Records
– The twin Moore sisters have been on the country scene for a good 20 years or so, and they have never sounded better than they do on their new Angels CD. The title is drawn from this touching ballad, a lovely swirl of trio harmony, thanks to the addition of the flawless Fricke to the sound. The song is penned by Debbie Moore, who co-wrote the Mark Wills hit “Wish You Were Here.” This fine country collection also features collaborations with Johnny Lee, David Frizzell, Marty Haggard and James Caruthers. How sweet the sound.

LAINEY WILSON / “4X4XU”
Writers: Aaron Raitiere/Jon Decious/Lainey Wilson; Producer: Jay Joyce; Label: Broken Bow Records/BMG
– Romance in a pick-up truck sounds like a total delight when this woman sings it. Love the sizzling organ notes in this slow-burn banger.

TY MYERS / “Let ‘Em Talk”
Writers: Anderson East/Trent Dabbs/Ty Myers; Producer: Brandon Hood; Label: RECORDS Nashville/Columbia
– This 17-year-old Texas phenomenon takes it nice and easy on a languid ode to young love.

MICKEY GUYTON / “My Side Of The Country”
Writers: Corey Crowder/Mickey Guyton/Tyler Hubbard; Producers: Corey Crowder, Karen Kosowski, Tyler Hubbard; Label: Capitol Records Nashville
– Guyton takes on a rhythm-happy number with this sunny celebration of country living. Vivacious, fun and winsome. It will be the kick-off track of her sophomore album, House on Fire, which drops on Sept. 27. She opened last week’s Democratic Convention in Chicago with her unifying anthem “All American.”

MON ROVIA / “Crooked On The Road”
Writers: Andrew Lowe/Cooper Holzman/Sam Hudgens; Producer: Cooper Holzman; Label: Nettwerk Music Group
– This newcomer bills his style as “Afro-Appalachian folk” music. Which makes sense since he was born in Liberia, lives in Tennessee and has an enchanting acoustic sound. This meditation on pain and hope is simply beautiful in its twinkling tapestry of guitars, echoed background singing and gently thumped percussion. It’s easy to hear why he has racked up half a billion TikTok views, garnered an international following, earned a booking at Bonnaroo and is slated for Austin City Limits this fall.

ZAC BROWN BAND / “Two Blue Chairs And You”
Writers: Ben Simonetti/Jonathan Singleton/Rob Snyder/Zac Brown; Producers: Ben Simonetti, Zac Brown; Label: Home Grown Music/Warner Music Nashville
– This bopper will make you instantly yearn for a Caribbean vacation. Loved the wordless, harmonized, a cappella vocal interlude. An absolutely perfect single.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Jackson Dean Shows Off ‘Terrific Singing & Dynamite Lyric’

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Jackson Dean. Photo: Sean Hagwell

DISClaimer has some real audio goodies for you today.

So many, in fact, that it’s hard to know where to shine the spotlight the brightest. Four records raced neck and neck for the Disc of the Day award. Three of them are collaborations—Post Malone & Tim McGraw, Kameron Marlowe & Marcus King and David Nail & Aubrie Sellers. Any of them are worthy of the crown. But for ultimate creativity and sheer drive, I’m going with the solo outing by Jackson Dean, “Heavens to Betsy.”

Black country artists continue to thrive. Today’s column features new music by Ashlie Amber, Sacha and newcomer Tae Lewis. He would have nailed a DISCovery Award were it not for the sensational solo debut of Brad Tursi, who takes home the prize.

BRAD TURSI / “Parallel Love”
Writer: Brad Tursi; Producers: Brad Tursi, Dan Isbell; Label: Sony Music Nashville
– This is a delightful twang fest, full of funky thump and hillbilly harmony. The title tune of Tursi’s debut solo album is a toe-tapping, innocent-sounding ode to love in the countryside that will have you smiling from ear to ear. Absolutely play this. The Old Dominion member stages his first solo Opry appearance tomorrow evening (Aug. 23).

JOSH TURNER / “Two Steppin’ On The Moon”
Writers: Chase McGill/John Pierce/Matt Dragstrem; Producer: Kenny Greenberg; Label: MCA Nashville
– Rolling and pleasurable, it’s another of his swirly, romantic, lost-in-love odes. Turner debuted it on the TODAY show on Monday and launched its music video on CMT last Friday.

SACHA / “High Life”
Writers: Chris Loocke/Emma-Lee/Jaden Michaels/Sacha Visagie; Producer: Eric Arjes, Jimmy Robbins; Label: Sony Music Canada
– She is somewhat better known in her native Canada, but this artist’s profile is trending upward in the U.S., thanks to “Hey Mom I Made It.” Now comes this merry, feel-good ditty about being high on life. “I ain’t drinkin’ I ain’t smokin’/Now the only thing I’m tokin’ is them big puffy clouds in the sky,” she sings while the track burbles contentedly along. The candy-colored music video reveals her to be an able skateboard surfer.

KAMERON MARLOWE & MARCUS KING / “High Hopes”
Writers: Brad Tursi/Josh Osborne/Trevor Rosen; Producer: Dann Huff; Label: Columbia Nashville
– King’s torrid guitar work kicks off this slow-blues jam. Marlowe’s blue-eyed soul vocal wails the hurtin’ lyric to get you in a downbeat honky-tonk mood. Then King’s spine-tingling tenor comes in and the two begin to harmonize splendidly. As they swap swamp sounds, King lets fly with more deep-fried licks. A sensational record.

TAE LEWIS / “When I Grew Up”
Writers: Jacob Frish/Paul Krieg/Tae Lewis; Producer: none listed; Label: Origins Records
– The chorus takes awhile to get to the punch line. But this guy has vocal talent to spare, so he sells this lyric of redemption with panache. He tosses the bottle away and holds his head high. Origins Records is a new label devoted to Black country talent, and this guy and an artist named David Junior are their flagship signees. Bon voyage!

WARREN ZEIDERS / “Intoxicated”
Writers: Bart Butler/Benjy Davis/Mark Holman/Randy Montana/Warren Zeiders; Producer: Mike Elizondo; Label: Warner Records
– Zeiders’ debut Warner album, Relapse, will drop tomorrow. Its latest preview and new single maintains the youngster’s rock-country fusion style with a smoldering-hot stomper about being drunk on love.

DAVID NAIL & AUBRIE SELLERS / “Why”
Writer: David Nail; Producers: David Nail, Reed Pittman; Label: DN
– This man was born to sing. This expressive performance questions why he makes a relationship so rocky and troubled. The track ripples and sighs around his superb vocal with soprano contributions by Sellers. The song was originally intended as a track for a 2013 Universal album that was never released. This is its poetic new version.

JAMES HOUSE / “What Do You Say”
Writer: James House; Producer: James House; Label: JH
– The loping “western” vibe churns along while House’s rasping tenor beckons her for a bluesy night on the town. Kinda hypnotic and retro cool.

ASHLIE AMBER / “What You Deserve”
Writers: Christian Stalnecker/Taylor Acorn; Producers: Ashlie Amber Harris, Victor “Vdub” Wilson; Label: AA
– The melody isn’t much, but her double-tracked vocal gives it a little heft. The pace is plodding and the production lacks imagination, but the whole thing is listenable in a lulling sort of way.

POST MALONE & TIM MCGRAW / “Wrong Ones”
Writers: Austin Post/Charlie Handsome/Ernest Keith Smith/James McNair/Louis Bell/Luke Combs; Producers: Charlie Handsome, Louis Bell; Label: Mercury Records/Republic Records
– Post Malone’s just-released, 27-track country album is packed with celebrities, and the massive successes of “I Had Some Help” (with Morgan Wallen) and “Pour Me a Drink” (with Blake Shelton) are illustrations of how fine his collaborations can be. His F1-Trillion collection also features him alongside Luke Combs (“Guy for That”), Dolly Parton, Brad Paisley, Hank Jr., Jelly Roll, Billy Strings, Ernest, Chris Stapleton, Lainey Wilson (“Nosedive”), Hardy and Sierra Ferrell. The album kicks off with this raucous barroom duet with Tim McGraw. The snarly, bluesy vibe suits both voices just fine. Malone (Austin Richard Post) is on fire: He also has the chart-topping “Fortnight” pop duet with Taylor Swift from her The Tortured Poets Department album.

JACKSON DEAN / “Heavens To Betsy”
Writers: Benjy Davis/Driver Williams/Jackson Dean; Producer: Luke Dick; Label: Big Machine Records
– This soulful guy has a new lyric video for this wonderful story song about a man who speaks to a loved one from beyond the grave. As if his terrific singing and the dynamite lyric aren’t enough, the spectacular production has froth and foam and tempo, tempo, tempo. Electrifying in every way.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Kelsea Ballerini ‘Beautifully’ Previews Upcoming Album

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Kelsea Ballerini. Photo: John Russo

We have a lot of fresh-sounding tracks in this week’s DISClaimer roundup.

There’s the clear, folk acoustic style of Gillian Welch & David Rawlings, the “outlaw” rowdiness of Gavin Adcock and the retro, soul-rock stew of Jeremie Albino. Adcock, Albino and Kayley Green are all making their debuts in the column, and talented newcomers are always welcome here. The DISCovery Award goes to Gavin Adcock.

Established hit-makers Thomas Rhett, Walker Hayes and McBride & The Ride are here as well. So is Kelsea Ballerini, who wins the Disc of the Day prize with her insightful “Sorry Mom.”

KAYLEY GREEN / “Shadow of a Cowboy”
Writers: Kayley Green/Jon Nite/Ross Copperman/Ben Williams; Producer: Ross Copperman; Label: Sony Music Nashville
– The drum machine and processed production are a little off-putting. But she sings her face off with an attractive purr and soulful range on a hurtin’ relationship lyric. Plus the melody is yummy. All in all, a marvelous debut.

WALKER HAYES / “Ball Player”
Writers: Walker Hayes/Ben Hayslip/Rhett Akins/Ross Copperman; Producers: Ben Johnson, Danny Majic; Label: Monument Records/RCA Records
– It’s a fatherhood song, addressed to a baseball-playing son with words of wisdom. He wants the boy to know that he’s loved whether he strikes out or hits a home run. Released just in time for the Little League World Series.

FANCY HAGOOD / “Good Grief”
Writers: Fancy Hagood/Jeremy Lutito; Producer: Jeremy Jutito; Label: Fancy Haygood Enterprises
– A cool, breezy track underlies a gentle reflection on the nature of grief. In a tender, tenor vocal performance, he tries to find acceptance and even joy as he thinks about the loved one he has lost. Very affecting.

KELSEA BALLERINI / “Sorry Mom”
Writers: Jessie Jo Dillon/Alysa Vanderheym/Hillary Lindsey/Karen Fairchild/Kelsea Ballerini; Producers: Kelsea Ballerini, Alysa Vanderheym; Label: Black River Entertainment/Big Machine Music
– Yeah, she’s been drinking and smoking and having sex. But beyond all the mistakes, escapades and disagreements, she’s become a woman her mother can be proud of. Beautifully done, from the exquisite production to her lilting, conversational vocal. This mid-tempo gem is drawn from her upcoming, female-centric album Patterns. I, for one, cannot wait to hear the rest of it.

JEREMIE ALBINO / “I Don’t Mind Waiting”
Writers: Jeremie Albino/Dan Auerbach/Pat McLaughlin; Producer: Dan Auerbach; Label: Easy Eye Sound
– The band lays down a Southern, neo-soul groove while his throaty, charismatic voice pleads for love. A retro romp, complete with horns and organ, that’s a pure audio pleasure. Also check out his rumbling road tune “Rolling Down the 405.” Both tunes will be found on his album, Our Time in the Sun, due Nov. 1.

THOMAS RHETT / “After All the Bars Are Closed”
Writers: Jacob Kasher Hindlin/John Byron/Thomas Rhett/Jaxson Free/Julian Bunetta; Producers: Dann Huff, Julian Bunetta; Label: The Valory Music Co.
– Here’s another preview of Rhett’s forthcoming album. Finger snaps, plucked guitar notes and relaxed, romantic singing are the hallmarks of this mellow ode to budding love.

PRISCILLA BLOCK / “Hell Out of a Hometown”
Writers: Priscilla Block/David Garcia/Hillary Lindsey/Summer Overstreet; Producers: David Garcia, Dave Cohen; Label: UMG Nashville/InDentRecords
– Her small town is suddenly claustrophobic and confining. She can’t drive around alone, seek anonymity in a bar or find solace at a church in a place everybody knows your name. He’s ruined the community she used to love. As usual, this woman’s singing and songwriter are first rate. This rolling thumper just confirms her greatness.

KENT BLAZY / “This One’s for You”
Writer: Kent Blazy; Producer: Kent Blazy; Label: Kent Blazy
– Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame member Blazy is on a mission to release a new album each year. His new one is titled My Life So Far, and it is his best-produced to date. You can “drop the needle” anywhere on it and be entertained. On this passionate country rocker, he salutes a buddy and bandmate from his Kentucky youth. Blazy has vocal and guitar chops to spare.

McBRIDE & THE RIDE / “No More Cryin’”
Writers: Josh Leo/Terry McBride; Producer: none listed; Label: Geffen
– This ‘90s hit-making band is celebrating its 35th anniversary with a live EP of some of its best-loved tunes. Original members Terry McBride, Ray Herndon and Billy Thomas kick up some serious dust on this lively rocker, which originally appeared on the soundtrack of the cult-favorite rodeo movie 8 Seconds.

GAVIN ADCOCK / “Run Your Mouth”
Writers: Gavin Adcock/Jack Rauton; Producer: Jay Rogers; Label: Thrivin Here Records LLC/Warner Music Nashville
– This bluesy, drawling stomper is loaded with sass, aggression and attitude. He sounds like a real country-music disrupter. Watch out for the surprise silent “breathing” passage in mid hell-raiser snarl. Adcock’s debut album, Actin’ Up Again, is 16 tracks of fire. Country music needs this guy to kick it in its pop pants.

NEON UNION / “Luck Don’t Live Around Here”
Writers: Chris DeStefano/Kelley Lovelace/Neil Thrasher; Producer: Jay DeMarcus; Label: Red Street Records, LLC
– Good things don’t come from good luck. They come from hard work, faith, love and “blood, sweat and tears.” That’s what the duo says on their stirring new anthem. It’s probably the team’s most commercial single to date.

GILLIAN WELCH & DAVID RAWLINGS / “Hashtag”
Writers: David Rawlings/Gillian Welch; Producer: David Rawlings; Label: Acony Records
– This folk duo hasn’t released any new music since winning a Grammy for its 2020 collection of covers All the Good Times. And it has been seven years since Welch and Rawlings have issued an album of original tunes. The wait will be over when their Woodland album drops this fall. In the meantime, here’s a preview, a gentle meditation on the passage of time, accented with sighing strings.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Randall King ‘Wails To The Heavens’ On New Single

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Randall King. Photo: Yve Assad

Today’s DISClaimer includes entries from the farthest ends of country’s audio spectrum, from bluegrass to pop.

The bluegrass world is bringing us a couple of cover tunes, Rhonda Vincent’s take on “Wagon Wheel” and Bill Taylor’s version of “Roll Me Away.” Of the two, Taylor’s re-imagining of Bob Seger is the cooler track. In fact, it wins him a DISCovery Award. Also: I love the name of his band, The Appalachian Heatherns.

From way over on the pop side, we have Maren Morris and Shelby Lynne. Both have left country music far behind, but are making extraordinary records nonetheless.

From somewhere down the middle of the country music world we have our Disc of the Day award winner. It’s Randall King and his “I Could Be That Rain.”

BILL TAYLOR / “Roll Me Away”
Writer: Bob Seger; Producer: Randall Deaton; Label: Lonesome Day Records
– I have always been a huge Bob Seger fan. So are the folks gathered on the new, multi-artist album Silver Bullet Bluegrass. This hearty, chesty baritone has one of the collection’s standout tracks, an exhilarating ride on wheels of fleet picking and close harmony singing. It feels like a splash of mountain spring water on your face. And it turns out that Seger’s 1983 rock classic sounds simply splendid in a bluegrass setting. Appalachia meets Motor City. Enthusiastically recommended.

MAREN MORRIS / “I Hope I Never Fall In Love”
Writers: Delacey/Evan Blair/Lucy Healey/Maren Morris; Producer: Evan Blair; Label: Columbia Records
– This echoey, throbbing, bittersweet ballad has a lovely ‘60s pop vibe. The luscious melody is bolstered by a thumping backbeat, ringing guitar and ghostly female vocal harmonies. It’s drawn from her upcoming pop EP Intermission, due Aug. 12.

RANDALL KING / “I Could Be That Rain”
Writers: Brian Fuller/Mason Thornley; Producers: Jared Conrad, Randall King; Label: Warner Music Nashville
– It is one of the great mysteries of our time why this superb vocalist is not yet a country superstar. As always, he delivers the goods. This time, he rides atop a cool rhythm pattern and some crashing guitars as he wails to the heavens. So nice I played it twice.

PHIL VASSAR & JEFFREY STEELE / “Like A Man’s Supposed To”
Writers: Jeffrey Steele/Phil Vassar; Producers: Jeffrey Steele, Scott Baggett; Label: 3 Ring Circus Records
– These two dudes are multiple award-winning troubadours. As a team, they sound like real brothers. This mid-tempo track has a retro, blue-eyed-soul flavor, punctuated by organ and sax blasts.

GREYLAN JAMES / “Who Broke Up With You”
Writers: Ashley Gorley/Brad Clawson/Greylan James; Producers: Brock Berryhill, Greylan James, Jason Massey; Label: Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment
– It starts out kinda dull, but when he kicks into the hooky part, the thing takes off. The gist of it is that the guy who broke up with her must have been out of his mind. The production churns along nicely as he unspools his observations.

MEGAN MORONEY / “Hell Of A Show”
Writer: Megan Moroney; Producer: Kristian Bush; Label: Sony Music Nashville/Columbia Records
– He treats her mean, but she has to hide her heartbreak because the show must go on. Anyone who has had to smile in spite of pain can relate to this tiny gem. It is performed with just a simple acoustic guitar accompaniment to her aching vocal delivery. The brief, tender little heartbreaker is the closing track on her brilliant new sophomore album Am I Okay?

JETT HOLDEN & CASSADEE POPE / “Karma”
Writer: Jett Holden; Producer: Will Hoge; Label: Black Opry Records
– This one is a darkly sinister rocker with a rapid-fire vocal delivery. He sings splendidly, Pope adds a perfect vocal assist, and the production kicks butt. Like many beginning country songwriters, he is overly word-y. But there is real promise here.

SHELBY LYNNE / “Gone To Bed”
Writers: Ashley Monroe/Burt Bacharach/Hal David/Karen Fairchild/Shelby Lynne; Producers: Ashley Monroe, Gena Johnson, Karen Fairchild, Shelby Lynne; Label: Monument Records
– Lynne’s first album in nine years is an audio pop wonderland. Its single starts off with an extended, spoken-word heartbreak meditation, followed by a dreamy, airy tune in an electronic soundscape. Titled Consequences of the Crown, the collection drops on Aug. 16. Throughout the project, she is utterly fascinating.

DILLON JAMES / “River Black”
Writers: Dan Alley/Dillon James/Jason Gantt; Producer: Paul DiGiovanni; Label: Buena Vista Records
– The title tune of this guy’s debut EP is a bluesy country rocker with a stately, stomping pace. Moody and intense.

RHONDA VINCENT / “Wagon Wheel”
Writers: Bob Dylan/Ketch Secor; Producer: Rhonda Vincent; Label: Upper Management Music
– The Queen of Bluegrass drops her new Destinations and Fun Places collection tomorrow (Aug. 9). She has already issued her covers of “Please Mr. Please” and the IBMA award-nominated “City of New Orleans” as teasers for the album. Now the Opry star is taking on the Darius Rucker/Old Crow Medicine Show hit with a soprano vocal harmony by Alison Krauss. Vincent and her band The Rage take an extended instrumental ride toward the song’s finale, extending the single to seven minutes in length. This is the oft-played song’s sweetest version yet.

REDFERRIN / “Just Like Johnny”
Writers: Blake Redferrin/Micah Wilshire; Producers: Jake Saghi, Micah Wilshire, Redferrin; Label: Warner Music Nashville
– The reason he is “just like Johnny” is that he is deeply into substance abuse. He cautions her that he “ain’t nowhere close to walking that line.” He loves her, but thinks he will always hurt her, let her down and put her through misery…. and that he will never change. Depressing yet compelling.

JOE ELY / “Driven To Drive”
Writer: Joe Ely; Producer: Joe Ely; Label: Rack ‘Em Records
– Some 23 albums into his career, this Americana stalwart is issuing a “road” album that celebrates the freedom of the highway. This propulsive country-rocker sets the mood.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Jordan Davis ‘Tries On A Jaunty Tempo Tune’

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It’s a variety pack of flavors in today’s DISClaimer.

We have a legend, Queen Reba, as well as newcomers Colin Stough, plus Ryan & Rory. We have folk (Kacey Musgraves), hip-hop (Shaboozey), gospel (The Oak Ridge Boys) yodeling (Phoebe White) and pop (The Mavericks).

Our two contenders for the Disc of the Day award are both solidly country, Drew Parker and Jordan Davis. I’m a huge fan of both singers. I’m giving the honor to Davis, but please play them both. A lot.

In keeping with our “variety pack” theme of the day, the DISCovery Awardees come to us from Brazil. Welcome Fernando & Sorocaba.

JUSTIN MOORE / “Put A Boot In It”
Writers: Jeremy Stover/Justin Moore/Randy Montana/Will Bundy; Producers: Jeremy Stover, Scott Borchetta; Label: The Valory Music Co.
– This takes aim at folks who trade trap beats for twang and move to Nashville from L.A. in order to make money in country music. He threatens mild violence if they don’t get more “country,” according to his definition of the lifestyle/sound. The verses and the choruses have jarringly different tempos.

THE OAK RIDGE BOYS / “Promised Land”
Writers: Ashley Monroe/Jeff Jones/Terry Clayton; Producer: Dave Cobb; Label: Lightning Rod Records
– Producer Dave Cobb insisted that the late Joe Bonsall sing a solo lead on this beautiful gospel ballad. The group has now issued a moving video of the tune in commemoration/homage to their fallen comrade. Bonsall died on July 9. The group will continue its farewell tour without him. Ben James joined as the Oaks tenor vocalist when Bonsall retired from the road in January.

PHOEBE WHITE, SUZY BOGGUSS & RIDERS IN THE SKY / “Ride Along With Me”
Writer: Phoebe White; Producer: Michael Jonathan; Label: Poet Man
– Here’s a smile for the day. Suzy Bogguss shares lead vocals with White on this lively track that kicks off the 14-year-old Kentucky yodeling phenomenon’s new album. Riders in the Sky provide the instrumental and vocal backing. The album, Cowgirl’s Delight, drops next month.

SHABOOZEY & BIGXTHAPLUG / “Drink Don’t Need No Mix”
Writers: Collins Obinna Chibueze/McKay Stevens/Nevin Sastry/Sean Cook/Xavier Landum; Producers: Sean Cook, McKay Stevens, Nevin Sastry; Label: American Dogwood/EMPIRE
– It looks like Shaboozey is going to be country’s breakout star of 2024. His delightful “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” is a multi-week No. 1 smash on both country and pop charts and has been streamed 900 million times and counting. The native Virginian teams with heavyweight rising Dallas rapper BigXThaPlug in his new video. It is a profanity laced, tuneless outing that owes much more to hip-hop culture than country.

DREW PARKER / “Love The Leavin’”
Writers: Drew Parker/Lindsay Rimes/Matt Rogers; Producer: Jacob Rice; Label: Warner Music Nashville
– Parker finally dropped his debut album Camouflage Cowboy a couple of weeks ago. He simultaneously released a video for this torrid ballad. The performance will make a believer out of you, if you’re not already in his fan club. This man is a spectacular vocal talent, among the very best of this generation of young country performers.

REBA McENTIRE / “I Can’t”
Writers: Tania Hancheroff/Tia Sillers/Victoria Banks; Producer: Dave Cobb; Label: Rockin’ R Records
– Very impressive. The Country Music Hall of Fame member unleashes one of the finest performances of her distinguished career with this dramatic power ballad. The lyric is wonderfully poetic and the production has tension and energy. The ode to romantic survival is accompanied by an artful video featuring an eye-popping set and florid ballet dancers.

COLIN STOUGH / “Lookin’ For Home”
Writers: Colin Stough/Lewis Brice/Rivers Rutherford; Producer: Alex Maxwell; Label: BBR Music Group
– This American Idol alumnus has issued his debut EP. Its title tune is a rolling country rocker with a wide-open-spaces “road” vibe.

JORDAN DAVIS / “I Ain’t Sayin’”
Writers: Emily Reid/Mark Holman/Steve Moakler/Travis Wood; Producer: Paul DiGiovanni; Label: MCA Nashville
– Mr. Davis tries on a jaunty tempo tune, and it fits just right. He might not be Mr. Right, but that other guy “sure as hell ain’t.” I remain an enormous fan.

CHASE MATTHEW AND FERNANDO & SOROCABA / “Cold Blooded”
Writers: Chase Matthew/Felipe Kef/Laroy Sanchez/Lucas Santos/Sorocaba; Producer: Lucas Santos; Label: Warner Music Brazil
– The lyric might be a heartbreaker, but the fabulous Brazilian rhythms will make you want to dance down Lower Broadway with a grin on your face. Viva Fernando y Sorocaba!

KACEY MUSGRAVES / “Irish Goodbye”
Writers: Daniel Tashian/Ian Fitchuk/Kacey Musgraves; Producers: Daniel Tashian, Ian Fitchuk, Kacey Musgraves; Label: Interscope Records/MCA Nashville
– Pretty. Airy. Wafting. Folkie. Soothing.

RYAN AND RORY / “Pour Decisions”
Writers: Emily Reid/Kevin Bard/Maya Kurchner/Remy Gautreau/Ryan Follese; Producers: Kevin Bard, Nick Zinnanti; Label: BBR Music Group
– Drawling, drowsy, boozy, Southern and loping. Relax and ride along.

THE MAVERICKS & MAGGIE ROSE / “Look Around You”
Writer: Raul Malo; Producers: Raul Malo, Niko Bolas; Label: Mono Mundo Recordings
– Lovely and essential. The groove-soaked track features marvelous poly-rhythms, horn punctuations and twin harmony singing by group leader Raul Malo and soulful Maggie Rose. The hippie message of brotherhood is uplifting and uniting. You can dance to it, too.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: George Strait ‘Knocks It Out Of The Park’

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George Strait. Photo: Peggy Sirota

Traditional country music asserts its lasting appeal in this week’s DISClaimer column.

There’s not a pop-country note to be sounded in the new tracks by Josh Turner, Joe Nichols, Brett Young, Jeannie Seely or Jamey Johnson. Towering over them all is King George. That’s right: all-time hit monarch George Strait has the Disc of the Day.

We turn to folk music for our DISCovery Award as John Lomax III officially becomes the oldest artist to ever nab this prize.

JEANNIE SEELY / “Suffertime”
Writers: Bill West/Dottie West; Producer: Steve Wariner; Label: Cheyenne Records
– With the retirement of Wanda Jackson, Jeannie Seely becomes the oldest still-active female country artist. That’s not a put down; she’s proud of it. She’s still hosting her Sundays With Seely on Sirius/XM and performing on the Opry regularly. In fact, she has now sung on the show more times than anyone in history. The 84-year-old legend recorded this homage to her late dear friend Dottie West at historic RCA Studio B with West’s discovery Steve Wariner producing. Seely and Wariner take West’s 1966 heartache song in a groovy, bluesy direction. An instant country classic.

MADDIE & TAE / “Free Like”
Writers: Casey Brown/Deric Ruttan/Maddie Font/Parker Welling; Producer: Josh Kerr; Label: Mercury Nashville
– Delightful. It’s a bouncing, bopping, merry kiss-off tune with saucy attitude in abundance. Twin-harmony vocals and snappy beats are the hallmarks of this rockin’ little ditty.

JOSH TURNER / “Somewhere With Her”
Writers: Josh Miller/Rhett Akins/Will Bundy; Producer: Kenny Greenberg; Label: MCA Nashville
– Languid and dreamy. He’s not paying attention because he’s lost in a romantic reverie. Do not operate heavy machinery while listening.

DYLAN MARLOWE / “Devil On My Shoulder”
Writers: Beau Bailey/Dylan Marlowe/Kyle Fishman/Rocky Block; Producer: Joe Fox; Label: Sony Music Nashville
– This breakup isn’t going well for him. No matter what he tries to get over her, “it ain’t doing jack.” Pleading and insistent. Very hooky, although a tad over produced and mucho electronic.

GEORGE STRAIT / “Three Drinks Behind”
Writers: Benjamin Gaither/Jeff Silvey/Kim Williams; Producers: Chuck Ainlay, George Strait, Tony Brown; Label: MCA Nashville
– I dig the chugging rhythm and mellow melody of this barroom ditty. Delivered with a smile from a Country Music Hall of Famer who can still knock it out of the park. Put this mini masterpiece on repeat pronto.

TIERA KENNEDY / “Cry”
Writers: Cameron Bedell/Jared Scott/Justin Timberlake/Scott Storch/Tiera Kennedy/Timothy Mosley; Producer: Cameron Bedell; Label: TK
– This sprightly tune is already being used in a McDonald’s commercial. Kennedy will officially release it as her new single next week. It is quite pert, catchy and attractive. The song samples Justin Timberlake’s pop hit “Cry Me a River,” so he gets a songwriter credit.

JOE NICHOLS / “Bottle It Up”
Writers: Dan Isbell/Josh Kear/Paul Sikes; Producers: Derek George, Mickey Jack Cones; Label: Brown Sellers Brown
– It turns out that I’m not the only who’s into this peerless country vocalist: Post Malone has proclaimed himself a fan. This good humored, twanging tempo tune is one more reason to applaud our enduring favorite.

JOHN LOMAX III / “I Was Born 10,ooo Years Ago”
Writer: Public Domain; Producer: Matthew “Buster” Allen; Label: Orchard
– Lomax is a member of the distinguished American folk-music family. At age 80, he is releasing his very first album. It’s chock full of traditional tunes, including this hearty, amusing old boasting song, produced with just acoustic-guitar accompaniment. Smiles all around.

BRETT YOUNG / “Goodnight Into Good Morning”
Writers: Brett Young/Jimmy Robbins/Jon Nite; Producer: Jimmy Robbins; Label: BMLG Records
– He’s always so good with romantic material. This swirling, spinning, sensuous outing is a love-at-first-sight come-on with undeniably hypnotic appeal. Hit bound.

JOSH ROSS & JULIA MICHAELS / “Want This Beer”
Writers: Hillary Lindsey/Julia Michaels/Michael Hardy/Zach Abend; Producers: Matt Geroux, Zach Abend; Label: Core Entertainment
– Moody and kinda dizzy, the ballad is a pop confection in the throats of two highly expressive vocalists. Be careful you don’t get a bloody nose when the thing ends with a sudden wall of silence in mid lyric.

DENETIA / “Gettin’ Over”
Writers: Brad Allen Williams/Denitia Odigie; Producer: Brad Allen Williams; Label: County Road
– Her sweet voice. Some twinkling steel guitar notes and the toe-tapping beats make this working-gal’s lament sound deceptively jaunty. Her songwriting seems to be growing more assured and authentically country as the months roll by.

JAMEY JOHNSON / “What A View”
Writers: Jamey Johnson/Randy Houser/Rob Hatch/Dallas Davidson; Producer: The Kent Hardly Playboys; Label: Big Gassed Records
– This drops tomorrow as Johnson’s new single, and it’s dandy. The swaying, breezy vibe evokes a Caribbean idyll, as well as classic Strait. Jamey remains a masterful country singer, and has never sounded warmer or more engaging than he does here. Essential listening.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Harper Grace & Kelsey Hart Impress With New Duet

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We’ve got big country stars on tap today, but the listening session shows that the most innovative sounds are coming from the upstarts.

Jason Aldean, Miranda Lambert and Thomas Rhett are batting a thousand with their new releases. But Dasha, Kashus Culpepper, Kassi Ashton and Charley Crockett might have the most ear-catching new releases.

I’m a sucker for a great country duet, and we have one here. It’s “Freedom” by Curb’s Harper Grace and Kelsey Hart, and it wins the Disc of the Day.

The DisCovery awardee also sounds fresh and novel. It’s a cowboy named Mike Schikora. Lend him your ears.

HARPER GRACE & KELSEY HART / “Freedom”
Writers: Kelsea Ballerini/Justin Ebach/Charles Kelley; Producers: Cameron Jaymes, Ben West; Label: Curb
– They’ve broken up, but are far from over one another. Both singers sound simply splendid on this ultra-tuneful, ultra-rhythmic, pulsating rush of sound. The luscious harmonies and soaring melody alternate with conversational bits that catch your ear. I would love to hear this in my car on the radio. A lot.

THOMAS RHETT / “Overdrive”
Writers: Thomas Rhett/Jacob Kasher Hindlin/John Ryan/Julian Bunetta; Producers: Dan Huff, Julian Bunetta, John Ryan; Label: Valory
– The wooshing breeze of summer romance wafts through this bopping ride in the back of a pickup truck. Rhett’s effortless vocal exudes mellow confidence while the country-pop track thumps and crashes around him. Audio excellence.

KASHUS CULPEPPER / “Who Hurt You”
Writers: Kashus Culpepper/Mark Addison Chandler; Producer: Brian Elmquist; Label: Big Loud
– Armed with just his guitar and an extraordinary voice, this guy completely touches your heart. His lyric about an emotionally wounded guy whose parents divorced, whose lover left him and whose government sent his friends to war aches with honesty and believability. This guy is among the most traditionally “country” of the more than two dozen Black country artists now emerging. He shares that status with Dalton Dover, Scoot Teasley, Chapel Hart, Julie Williams, Aaron Vance and only a handful of others.

GRETCHEN WILSON / “Little Miss Runner Up”
Writers: Gretchen Wilson/Rivers Rutherford/George Teren; Producer: Gretchen Wilson; Label: Redneck Records
– A trashy hussy is on the loose and she’s after your man, so look out. Wilson is singing with as much moxie as ever, but I don’t like the muddy, messy, cluttered way this is mixed.

GRAHAM BARHAM / “Shoot the Lock”
Writers: Graham Barham/John Pierce/Lindsay Rimes/Michael Whitworth; Producers: none listed; Label: Sony
– Who thought it was a good idea to put this hillbilly vocal with hip-hop beats? Irritating to my ears.

JASON ALDEAN / “Whiskey Drink”
Writers: John Edwards/John Morgan/Kurt Allison/Tully Kennedy; Producer: Michael Knox; Label: BBR/BMG
– A broken hearted man begs “Jack,” his whiskey drink, to blot out his thoughts and memories about her. Very well written: Roaring desperation and barroom misery have never sounded better.

KASSI ASHTON / “Son of a Gun”
Writers: Kassi Ashton/Jason Nix/Driver Williams; Producers: Luke Laird, Kassi Ashton; Label: MCA Nashville/Interscope
– Rollicking country rock with a charming tomboy lyric. This gal has always had the goods, vocally. Now she’s found a sound that suits her pipes.

MIRANDA LAMBERT / “Ain’t In Kansas Anymore”
Writers: Miranda Lambert/Jesse Frasure/Jenee Fleenor; Producers: Jesse Frasure; Label: Atlantic
– This crunchy, dynamite blast plays under the end scene of the new cinema thrill ride Twisters. Love the whirling production as well as her feisty vocal. This much-awarded woman still rules my heart.

CHARLEY CROCKETT / “America”
Writers: Billy Horton/Charley Crockett; Producers: Billy Horton, Charley Crockett; Label: Son of Davy/Thirty Tigers
– Crockett has been hitting the road with superhuman energy for years, as well as recording more prolifically than any other country act. He issues his 14th album in less than a decade this month. Meanwhile, we have this excellent, bluesy, horn-embellished meditation on his home. The lyric waits patiently for America to make good on her promises while the singer traverses the land. Also: His cover of “(Ghost) Riders in the Sky” is on the Twisters soundtrack. Crockett’s two Ryman shows next weekend (July 26 and July 27) are both sold out.

MIKE SCHIKORA / “Last Rose of Summer”
Writers: Mike Schikora/Rory Payne; Producers: Michael Bonagura, Kathie Baillie; Label: MS
– Vocal harmonies by Baillie & The Boys and wafting harmonica accents embellish this gentle waltz. It’s a sweet, simple, touching marriage proposal that is very emotionally affecting. Also check out Schikora’s light yodeling on his equally nice track “Back Under Montana Skies.”

T. GRAHAM BROWN & ZACH WILLIAMS / “When a Man Loves a Woman”
Writers: Calvin Lewis/Andrew Wright; Producers: T. Graham Brown, Cole Johnstone, Billy Lawson; Label: Warner/ADA
– Brown’s upcoming album is titled From Memphis to Muscle Shoals. It features collaborations with Wynonna, Dwight Yoakam, Randy Houser, Delbert McClinton and previously-reviewed Tanya Tucker (”Dark End of the Street”), as well as a cluster of soul stars. This new Opry member is always worth listening to. Here, he swaps lines effectively with CCM star Zach Williams on a 1966 Percy Sledge classic, previously brought to the country hit parade by John Wesley Ryles in the 1970s and by Narvel Felts in the 1980s.

DASHA / “Didn’t I”
Writers: Ben Johnson/Emily Weisband/Anna Dasha Novotny; Producer: Ben Johnson; Label: Warner
– Against her better intentions, she’s back with the lousy guy she already dumped. Written with wit. Produced with merry banjo plunking and thumpy dance beats. Very clever pop country. Her dance moves in the video are ace, too. The irresistibly catchy “Austin” remains the single, and its video has her out on the dancefloor as well. I have a hunch she’s big fun in concert.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Sam Williams Graces Cirque du Soleil With A ‘Gorgeous, Stately Waltz’

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Sam Williams. Photo: Alexa King

It’s party time at DISClaimer this week.

Break out the booze and your dance moves as Post Malone and Blake Shelton, Keith Urban, Ashlie Amber and Lee Brice with his pals serve up the summer sounds. Upbeat tunes by Sacha and Phil Vassar and Jeffrey Steele will raise your spirits as well.

You’ll also be uplifted if you attend the Cirque du Soleil Songblazers show at TPAC. Its beautiful theme song by Sam Williams is the Disc of the Day.

The DISCovery Award goes to both Jett Holden and his record label, both of which are staging their debuts in the column today.

ASHLIE AMBER / “Beer Chaser”
Writer: Ashlie Amber; Producers: Ashlie Amber, Victor Wilson; Label: AA
– This Nashvillian sings with sprightly verve and the production is a pop-country dandy. The song rambles along attractively, but could have used a more memorable chorus. Promising. Send more.

KEITH URBAN / “Wildside”
Writers: Ashley Gorley/David Garcia/Ernest Keith Smith/Keith Urban; Producers: Dann Huff, Keith Urban; Label: Capitol Records Nashville
– A scampering, good-time summertime bopper with some super cool, shuddering electric burbling. The guitar solo is a burst of sunshine, as is Urban’s bright vocal.

JETT HOLDEN / “West Virginia Sky”
Writer: Jett Holden; Producer: Will Hoge; Label: Black Opry Records
– The debut artist on the new Black Opry record label has a mystical, mysterious story to tell on this listenable folkie outing. It seems to be about a cancer death and a Phoenix-like rebirth, with myth-like imagery in the lyric. Holden also has a more rock-ish single titled “Backwood Proclamation.” Both are drawn from his forthcoming album debut, The Phoenix, due Oct. 4.

LEE BRICE, NATE SMITH & HAILEY WHITTERS / “Drinkin’ Buddies”
Writers: Chris DeStefano/Justin Wilson/Zachary Kale; Producers: Ben Glover, Jerrod Niemann; Label: Curb Records
– This one will make you want to bend that wrist, for sure. The shouted choruses are ridiculously catchy and the party vibe is irresistible. Brice is always a delight, and his pals here are both lively additions. An instant playlist add.

SACHA / “Hey Mom I Made It”
Writers: Jake Saghi/Sacha Visagie/Shawn Chambliss; Producers: James Robbins, Eric Arjes; Label: Sony Music Canada
– In a word, terrific. She’s been through a personal hell, but is still standing. The anthemic choruses are tuneful, inspirational and uplifting. She sings with joy and conviction. The Nashville production propels this Canadian toward the stardom that was promised when she was chosen for CMT’s Next Women of Country class back in 2021. This is Sacha’s major-label debut.

POST MALONE & BLAKE SHELTON / “Pour Me A Drink”
Writers: Austin Post/Charlie Handsome/John Byron/Jordan Dozzi/Louis Bell/Rocky Block; Producers: Charlie Handsome, Louis Bell; Label: Mercury Records/Republic/Big Loud
– I am so digging this guy’s move into country music. Post Malone can bust a honky-tonk tune with the best of ‘em, and he has one of the best as his duet partner here. Talk about a rompin’ stompin’ fiesta, ya gotta love this million-smiles ditty.

DON LOUIS / “Mine In My Mind”
Writers: Don Louis/Tanner Olsen; Producer: Brett Truitt; Label: Empire Nashville
– I have admired this guy’s chesty baritone delivery in the past. On this moody, midtempo, acoustic meditation, he sees his ex lover in a bar with another guy. But he’s not worried, because he wants to believe that she’ll remember him and come back. Keep dreaming, buddy.

PHIL VASSAR & JEFFREY STEELE / “Hillbillies in Hollywood”
Writers: Jeffrey Steele/Phil Vassar; Producers: Jeffrey Steele, Scott Baggett; Label: 3 Ring Circus Records
– These two harmonize brilliantly together. The song is a nostalgic reverie about country-music life in Los Angeles. They rhythmically reminisce about The Troubadour, Linda Ronstadt, Sunset Boulevard, Bakersfield, “Hotel California,” Malibu, Laurel Canyon and more. The track is as thrilling as their vocal performance. A must-listen.

AVERY ANNA / “Girl Next Door”
Writer: Avery Anna; Producer: David Fanning; Label: Warner Music Nashville
– This poignant acoustic ballad portrays a youngster who had to grow up and assume responsibilities way too young. Anna pines for her friend’s lost childhood, but reminds her that when things seem to much to bear that the singer is right next door. A brilliant piece of songwriting from a woman who deserves our universal support.

GAVIN DEGRAW / “Chariot (Chariot 20)”
Writer: Gavin DeGraw; Producer: Dave Cobb; Label: Sony Music Nashville
– This former pop star transitioned to country a couple of years ago. He is celebrating the 20th anniversary of his breakthrough album with a soulful reworking of its title track. Organ, guitars and backup vocals give the whole thing a rousing, gospel vibe.

SAM WILLIAMS / “Carnival Heart”
Writers: Ned Houston/PJ Harding/Sam Williams; Producers: Ben Roberts, Nathan Sexton; Label: Mercury Nashville
– This ballad is the theme song of the dazzling Cirque du Soleil Songblazers show currently ongoing at TPAC. It’s a gorgeous, stately waltz with a swirling production, an aching tenor vocal, lovely lyrics and a melody to get lost in. Williams is getting ready to release his sophomore album this fall. Can’t wait to hear it.

JERRY DOUGLAS / “While My Guitar Gently Weeps”
Writer: George Harrison; Producer: Jerry Douglas; Label: Many Hats Distribution
– The dobro master teams with an awesome band to remind us what a spectacular melody this 1968 Beatles classic has. In addition to the poetic, emotive Douglas lead, the track features sweet notes from fiddle, bowed bass and Telecaster. The prettiest instrumental I’ve heard all year.