If there was ever just one word to describe The Shires then it would surely be dependable.
After three studio albums and many, many shows, I have always found the duo, comprised of Ben Earle and Crissie Rhodes, to be consistent, reliably producing solid albums and putting on enjoyable performances. Good Years, their fourth release, does not break this trend.
The album opens with ‘Lightning Strikes’, a co-write with Cam. A foot-stomper, it’s memorable, fun, the sort of energy The Shires are known for. The lyrics will be painfully relatable for some as they delve into the question of if a love would’ve worked out in a different time.
Crissie shines in the following ‘On The Day I Die’, whilst Ben then takes the lead on ‘Good Years’. As always, the two strike a perfect balance of who sings what and, again, as always, their harmonies are always perfect, their chemistry as performers hitting new heights with each release.
‘Independence Day’, which was released as a single prior to release, is a pleasant surprise. It’s much more ‘poppier’ than some of the other tracks on here but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. It’s catchy with the roaring ‘ohs’ that you just know audiences will lap up on the duo’s upcoming, and future, tours.
Prior to hearing the full album, ‘About Last Night’ was my favorite and I had even went as far to say it ranked up there as one of my favorite Shires tracks. However, ‘Only Always’ manages to eclipse it. It’s stripped back, their vocals shine and the lyrics are profound - it’s absolutely beautiful.
All in all? Another fantastic release from Ben and Crissie. Go get it.
