ALBUM REVIEW: 'Good Years' - The Shires

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.

ALBUM REVIEW: 'Wildwood Kin' - Wildwood Kin

Out this Friday is Devon trio Wildwood Kin’s second album, Wildwood Kin.

I first discovered Wildwood Kin (comprised of sisters Beth and Emillie Key, and their cousin Meghann Loney) in early 2017, as they opened for Ward Thomas on their Cartwheels tour. I was blown away by the smooth harmonies, beautiful lyrics and pounding beats. I left that show not only with a copy of their EP but as a new fan, eager for more.

Turning Tides, the album they put out shortly afterwards, was one of my favorite releases that year. I saw them on their headline tour in 2018 and that was, also, a year highlight.

Needless to say I was very excited to listen to their second album, Wildwood Kin.

And, again, I was not disappointed.

What has made me such a fan of their music is that it always feels like an experience, as opposed to mere entertainment. Their songs have purpose. They make you think, they uplift you and they’re also really fun to sing along to. For those that believe in the adage that music is medicine for the soul then this album is the best antidote.

Take the track ‘Beauty in Your Brokenness’. It’s a song about self-acceptance, to grow to love and embrace your flaws. ‘Never Alone’ is another track of encouragement, reassuring the listener that, even if they’re struggling, help is always there and happier times are possible.

‘Breathe’ stresses the importance of taking a moment to stop, to take the time to breathe even during the craziness of life. ‘The Crown’ talks about how fame/success is fickle and should not be relied on for happiness. And ‘Time Has Come’, their latest single, is all about empowerment, about how we can all be heroes simply by using our voice to stand up for what we believe in.

Musically, Wildwood Kin  is a stellar album with stunning vocals and arrangements. More generally speaking, this album is a ray of positivity in an often bleak world.

*

Wildwood Kin is out this Friday.

EP Review: 'A Shorter Story' - Ward Thomas

If releasing the #1 album Cartwheels just last year wasn't enough, Ward Thomas have decided to treat fans to another collection of tracks - this time in the form of a highly anticipated EP of covers.

Catherine and Lizzy's unique twists on well known songs are always highlights at their live shows, and their Snug Sessions on YouTube are always immensely enjoyable - to finally have a bunch of studio recorded covers has been a long time coming.

A Shorter Story has been worth the wait and serves as proof that the duo's signature sublime harmonies aren't limited to just one genre. From Damien Rice to Justin Timberlake to Kings of Leon, the girls make each song their own.

The real standout track of a very strong bunch, is the girls' take on Crowded House's 'Better Be Home Soon'. The simplistic nature of the arrangement allows for their vocals and harmonies to absolutely shine. It's simply stunning and is a wonderful way to close out the EP.

Tracklisting:
1. 'The Blower's Daughter'
2. 'What Goes Around...Comes Around'
3. 'Shine'
4. 'WALLS'
5. 'Better Be Home Soon'

*

A Shorter Story is available for download now and you can pick up a physical copy at the remaining dates of their UK tour.

EP Review: 'Signature Songwriter Series Volume 1' - Zack Dyer

Since launching last year, independent Nashville label Silverado Records have been putting together a very strong and exciting roster.

One such signing is Zack Dyer who kicks off the label's Signature Songwriter Series with his four track co-written EP.

Country is the broad bracket genre for this release but there's also elements of pop and blues, with Zack's incredibly soulful voice at the helm. As much as I try to resist comparing artists to each other, if you like guys like Jason Mraz, Chris Young or Jack Johnson, then you'll love this release. It's easy listening, well-written and welcoming music.

We open with the upbeat 'All American'. This track is about a girl who has caught Zack's eye and it's joyful and sweet. One criticism is that this song has been put out a little too early as this easily has potential to be a summer anthem...give this one a spin when you're driving, windows down, on a beautiful sunny day and you'll get what I mean.

'Heartland', a love letter to home, showcases Zack's smooth voice beautifully. It's bluesy and it paints a lovely picture of where he grew up and everything that's so great about it. A bass guitar gives it an infectious groove.

Then we have another ode...to a car. 'P.O.S' is a lovingly cheeky song to the first car you own. It's nothing special (as he calls it, it's a P.O.S) but it gets the job done and you'll always remember it for a number of reasons. It's a very fun and playful song.

'Wishful Drinking' ends the EP on a more sombre note, a sorrow filled song about a love that was not meant to be. It's the excellent choice to end on, showing that there's more to Zack than the chilled tracks that had proceeded it. Gut-wrenching punches are also part of his wheelhouse.

All in all, this EP is another sign of very promising things to come, both from Zack himself and Silverado. Well worth a purchase.

*

Signature Songwriter Series Volume 1 is available to download now.

ALBUM REVIEW: 'Dream Country' - Sarah Darling

They say you shouldn't judge a book by its cover...but you know that sometimes you can't help but do it. I did it with Sarah Darling's latest release Dream Country. The album box art is stunning: a constellation map is printed on the disc, gold stars are embossed on the case and the album insert folds out into another gorgeous map, with the stars representing people Sarah wanted to thank for bringing this project to life.

Wow, I thought. The music has some seriously high standards to live up to now.

I needn't have worried. Dream Country, like its case, is a work of beauty.

We open with 'Wandering Star', a track that sets the tone for the album brilliantly. Atmospheric and ethereal, it's a track of self-belief and reassurance that it's okay to find yourself lost in life. A strings section helps to make this one aptly dreamy.

'Where Cowboys Ride' is a four minute trip to Wyoming. Described as a 'love letter' to her home state, it's hard not to fall in love with the idyllic landscape she's painting for us. The theme of home continues on 'Anchor' a track written with a certain Mr Sam Palladio and is about missing his home. Another beautiful song...listening to this album really, really makes you want to get out there and see the world.

Sarah puts a new twist on 'Tell That Devil', a song that was already dear to my heart. Probably more people listening to this album will recognize this track as a song sang by Juliette Barnes in Nashville but this song, originally cut by Jill Andrews, currently serves as the theme song for Wynonna Earp, a drama about a demon-hunting eponymous main character (and currently this reviewer's favorite show). Darling does this one justice, providing feisty vocals to a kicking beat.

Then comes a drastic change of tone and something that left me speechless. The personal, 'Please, Please, Please Let Me Get What I Want'. Sure, it's not an original but it's a song that you can feel resonates so deeply with Sarah. It's vulnerable and, musically, is so beautifully arranged. It's absolutely stunning.

Honesty features also on the following 'Starry Eyes'. Life is fraught with difficulties, she admits here but you gotta push through them to get to where you want to be. It's an optimistic message that many will relate to, and will also need to hear.

Sarah then takes us across the channel to 'Montmarte'. It's three and a half minutes of beautiful imagery, immersing you in a picturesque Parisian cityscape. 'Halley's Comet', a track that has been steadily growing momentum (and deservedly so) is next up and, again, it's another spellbinding number. Opening and ending with a delicate piano, there's again vulnerability to the vocals, vocals that soar and shine bright.

'You Take Me All The Way' is a sultry and playful number, with a jazzy melody. And then we end with 'Stargazer'. It's the perfect song to end on. Sarah calls it 'a lullaby to help you get through' - a philosophy that is very much at the heart of Dream Country. This is an album for the dreamer; hopeful and inspirational. And it's an album that is very much needed in the world right now.

*

Dream Country is out this Friday (10th February).

ALBUM REVIEW: 'A Silverado Family Christmas' - Various Artists

Independent Nashville based label, Silverado Records showcase their ever-growing, and incredibly exciting roster, on this joyous Christmas release.

There's been quite a few Christmas albums put out this year by country artists and hearing the same songs being covered can get a bit tiresome. However, this Silverado release finds a good balance between new and old, with 3 original songs and 4 covers.

Up and comer Zack Dyer opens with an original, 'Snow Day', which is a cheerful track with reggae stylings.

Another new track comes from Gabe Burdulis. His song, 'I'm Looking For Christmas This Year', is my personal favorite on the album. A song about his memories of Christmas, it's a sweet song with a beautiful melody. Gabe has a wonderful voice too and is definitely an artist to keep an eye on.

The last original track is Crystal Yates' 'Christmas Time For Just Me and You'. This one is so classically Christmassy, with a wonderful piano accompaniment. Crystal has an incredibly soulful voice which shines throughout the song.

When it comes to covers, this release also does not disappoint. Whilst each cover are songs that have been covered countless times, each artist here puts their own spin on them and makes them sound their own.

Overall, this is a fantastic release and a very promising sign of things to come from Silverado Records.

Track Listing:

1. 'Snow Day' - Zack Dyer
2. 'I'll Be Home For Christmas' - Joe Diffie
3. 'Let It Snow' - Mandy McMillan
4. 'The Christmas Song' - Melissa Mickelson
5. 'I'm Looking For Christmas This Year' - Gabe Burdulis
6. 'Blue Christmas' - Tony Winkler
7. 'Christmas Time For Just Me and You' - Crystal Yates

To stay up to date on all things Silverado, check out their website silveradorecords.com.

ALBUM REVIEW: 'Tough Ones to Love' - Amanda Richards

Last week we featured a single called 'Fresh Kill', a single that I enjoyed immensely.

Even though I am someone who considers themselves a fan of most, if not all, of the sub-genres of the broad country genre, I must admit that I do favor the rootsy side over the super-polished and overly produced side. Therefore, Amanda Richards' 'Fresh Kill' was exactly the sort of track that holds a special place in my heart, so I had a good feeling heading into my first listen of her new album.

And man...Tough Ones To Love did not disappoint.

The album is a lovely throwback to traditional country, with songs telling real, interesting and diverse stories. And this is great and, with this album, it is just perfect as Amanda is clearly a natural storyteller, as demonstrated from the get-go with 'Fresh Kill', a song that warns of the dangers of letting life pass you by.

'Last Train' has a wonderful wild west vibe to it as Richards sings about rejecting the advances of a charming yellow-eyed devil. I mentioned in my single review last week about how rich 'Fresh Kill' was in imagery, and in language, and this recurs throughout the entire album, and 'Last Train' is another fine example, as is 'Another Temptation'.

Like her storytelling, Amanda's smoky vocals also shine - particularly on 'Close To Me', a track that shows a more vulnerable side to the singer, increasingly so towards the end of the song where her voice grows and shakes with emotion.

'Lame Tattoos' reminds us that looks can and will fade, whilst 'Cinderella Waltz' is a heartbreaking tale of waiting for a prince that never shows.

This is a diverse album with ten original tracks and three covers, all telling different tales but, ultimately, they're all connected together with an authenticity that makes this album really great. I don't know all too much about Amanda Richards personally but I can tell that this is an album that stays very much true to who she is and I can sense that she's proud of this collection of songs...and she has every right to be.

This is a fantastic album and might just be a sneaky late addition to our top albums of the year list.

Tough Ones To Love is available now. 

For further information on Amanda Richards, visit amandarichards.net.

ALBUM REVIEW: Little Seeds - Shovels & Rope

I've had Shovels & Rope's new release Little Seeds in my possession for a while but have lacked the time to be able to properly articulate my thoughts on it until now.

For those unfamiliar, the duo are comprised of husband and wife, Michael Trent and Cary Ann Hearst from Charleston, South Carolina. They already have a few albums to their name, both as a duo and as artists in their own right, but this is the first LP I've listened of them in full. It wouldn't be the last.

Little Seeds is an album rich with lyrical quality and emotional depth. Powerful is perhaps the best way to describe this collection of tracks as it kicks off with the thumping, grungy 'I Know' and 'Botched Execution' - the latter of the two has such incredible imagery that I couldn't help but immediately replay it a few times to fully soak it all in.

Yet, it also packs a heavy emotional punch. This album is easy to listen to, yes, but at the same time is hard to listen to. At times, you'll be brought crashing back to reality. 'Invisible Man' is about the heartbreaking effects of Alzheimer’s from the point of view of a sufferer who, as a result of the horrific disease, is lost in themselves. Another haunting track is 'BWYR', a minimalist in style, cry to stop the many number of hate fueled killings that keep happening - it's a stunning number with a message that really needs to be heard, perhaps more now than ever before.

'BWYR', a track about how precious life is, leads nicely into the beautiful 'Eric's Birthday', a song that celebrates the birth of a child before concluding with 'This Ride' which reflects on the other end of the spectrum - death. This album is a wonderful tapestry of emotion, so well crafted and so well put together.

I went into this album as a casual listener of the duo and left as a fan. Little Seeds is, quite simply, a masterclass in storytelling.

Little Seeds is out now. For more information on the band, including information on their upcoming UK dates, visit shovelsandrope.com.

ALBUM REVIEW: 'Sean McConnell' - Sean McConnell

You might not yet know his name but there's a very good chance that you've heard some of Sean McConnell's work already.

Tim McGraw...Brad Paisley...Martina McBride...the list of names that have cut Sean's songs is as endless as it is illustrious. Now, with his self-titled album, Sean surely looks set to become a household name in his own right.

From start to finish, this album oozes class and fine lyrics. The stories he tells are vivid and his voice is soulful. For forty or so minutes, you'll be taken on the sort of journey that is rarely found in music these days.

'Holy Days' opens the album, a track that reminisces about time spent with a loved one. From the get go, Sean sets himself an alarmingly high precedent to live up to, yet manages to live up to this standard with ease and, at times, even surpasses it.

'Beautiful Rose' is the standout track from this offering of fine songs. It's a peaceful, simple song of reflection that is absolutely captivating. One of the best songs that I have heard in a while.

There's a strong personal feeling that runs throughout this release but none feel as autobiographical as 'Queen of Saint Mary's Choir'. With his father a guitar player and his mother a singer, this kicking track is the story of Sean's life and serves as a perfect introduction for those who know little about the man who proves, track after track, to be one of Nashville's finest songwriters and one of Music City's hottest talents.

When I was sent this release, I will admit that I had not heard of Sean but if I hadn't been sent this release, I am sure that I would have heard about him soon enough. A fantastic album by one of the most exciting artists that Nashville has to offer. One to watch.

This album is definitely worth a purchase and, if you can, go see him when he plays a few dates in London later this year.

The album is available now. For further information about Sean, including his London dates, visit seanmcconnell.com.

ALBUM REVIEW: 'My Universe' - The Shires

The first time I saw The Shires was on their Homegrown Tour with Ward Thomas. In the two years that would follow, these two duos would go on to make history. The Shires started first, becoming the first UK country act to enter the top ten with their debut album, Brave. Ward Thomas then did one better at the start of this month, hitting the top spot with their album Cartwheels. 

Now, set to release their second album, My Universe, one can't help but wonder what record Ben and Crissie will break with this release.

A word that keeps coming to mind when thinking about this album is growth. Eighteen months separate Brave and My Universe but in those eighteen months the duo have grown a lot both as songwriters and people.

Opening the album is the powerful title track, the duo's current single. Not only is this track part of the #ItCanWait safety campaign (an incredibly important campaign which highlights the danger of  using your phone whilst driving) but it was also inspired by key moments in Ben and Crissie's lives - the birth of Ben's son and the anniversary of Crissie's father passing. It's a song about making every moment count and is the first of a number of personal songs on the record.

Tracks 'Beats To Your Rhythm', 'Not Even Drunk Right Now' and 'A Thousand Hallelujahs' look set to be real crowdpleasers on their upcoming tour which starts in November, with all three being big, energetic anthems.

Crissie takes the lead on 'Daddy's Little Girl' which is a beautiful tribute to her late father before it's Ben's turn on the equally powerful 'Everything You Never Gave', as he vows not to follow in his father's footsteps and to be there for his own child. Positioned back-to-back in the middle of the album, these songs offer an insight into the duo's lives that I feel Brave lacked and I appreciate Ben and Crissie feeling that they're able to share such personal stories with us.

More vulnerability is shared on 'Naked', 'Save Me' and 'Desperate' and you can feel the heart in each song. Never once do you feel as if it's forced emotion or like the track has just been thrown in there to make up numbers. Each and every song belongs on this release and I truthfully can't even pick out a weak song, nevermind a bad song.

As for my favorite track from My Universe, I am torn. 'Drive', a track that was written with Kip Moore is absolutely excellent. It leaves you with a sense of adventure and a kick and a chorus that is hard to get out of your head. And then there's 'Other People's Things', a song that I've heard on an earlier tour and I'm so glad that it made the album. It's a beautiful piano led track about how the little things, such as a pair of shoes or a photograph, can bring back a multitude of memories both good and bad. It's a finely written song that, for so many people, will be heartbreakingly relatable. It will leave a lasting impression on even the most resistant heart.

Brave will always hold a special place in my heart as it was an album that I watched grow from a handful of songs performed in small venues to a full album performed in front of ever-growing crowds but, in terms of quality, My Universe surpasses it. The songwriting is better, Ben and Crissie have never sounded better and the connection with us has never felt stronger. I simply can't wait to hear this album being played out on their upcoming tour!

My Universe is out on Friday. For further information and a full list of tour dates, visit theshiresmusic.com.

ALBUM REVIEW: 'AKA Nobody' - Mac McAnally

His peers have voted him 'Musician of the Year' for eight consecutive years at the CMA Awards - ten times in total. He's a member of the Nashville Songwriters' Hall of Fame and he's worked with names such as Reba, George Strait and Dolly...it's easier to name who he hasn't worked with. Mac McAnally  has achieved a lot in his career and he's showing no signs of stopping any time soon.

AKA Nobody is McAnally's 13th studio album and, admittedly, the first that I have listened to...and it won't be the last.

What I gathered most from this release was that McAnally is musically very much in his own lane. There's fifteen tracks on this album and not one of them conforms to what is currently mainstream. Does this limit radio airplay? Absolutely but I think those CMA awards speak for themselves. This album provides a masterclass in storytelling.

There's a lot of variety on this offering. 'Mississippi on My Mind' and 'Zanzibar' are playful, bluegrassy tracks. 'Place Where You Belong' is piano heavy, a little reminiscent of Elton John, and 'Coast of Carolina' is a cute and charming track.

Yet, the stand-out track has to be 'With a Straight Face'. This ballad is an empathetic tale of two gay children whose parents just don't understand them. It's so incredibly refreshing to hear this sort of perspective in music and McAnally's presentation is as sensitive about an issue, as it is incredibly poignant. Truly powerful.

I could say more about this album but I'm going to leave it here. This is something you need to hear for yourself because this reviewer simply won't be able to do it justice.

AKA Nobody is out now and Mac plays The Borderline in London tomorrow (27th September). For more information, visit macmcanally.com.

ALBUM REVIEW: 'The Road That Drives Me' - Shantell Ogden

With some of her songs featuring on films and television shows such as Hart of Dixie, there's a chance that you may have heard Shantell Ogden before.

If not, you can start with her fifth studio album, The Road That Drives Me, which is out today.

Shantell is an award winning songwriter and it is evident throughout the record. Production on this album is very much minimal and that's perfectly fine. The tracks still feel incredibly raw, packed with emotion, conviction and, at times, vulnerability. The latter is especially true on second-to-last track, 'Love Again' as Ogden ponders if she will ever find someone who will fix her broken heart.

'Different Sides of the Mississippi' is a real stand out, a slow and heartbreaking number about the gradual drifting apart between two lovers. On the other hand, 'Feels Good to Get It Right' proves that the album is not all heartbreak as it is a lighter, happier tune about how great life can be when the stars do align.

One word to describe this album best would be honesty as Ogden pours her heart out and into this album. With eight tracks The Road That Drives Me is a little on the short side but definitely leaves you wanting more.

The Road That Drives Me is available now. For further information on Shantell visit shantellogden.com.

ALBUM REVIEW: Letters To Ghosts - Lucie Silvas

It was 2008 when I first fell in love with country music thanks to the wonders of YouTube. This was a revelation for twelve year old me as I now had almost unlimited access to this new genre of music, a genre that the UK was still very reluctant to embrace.

Before this exciting discovery, I spent a good chunk of my childhood indoors incessantly watching the two music channels we had - TMF and The Hits (now 4Music). One of the many songs that I discovered, and soon learned all the words to, from these channels was a song called 'Breathe In'. Ten years later, I still know all the words, still absolutely adore that song and am now sitting here writing this review of Lucie Silvas' debut country album, Letters To Ghosts...for me, it feels almost full circle.

But enough about me.

Letters To Ghosts is an album years in the making with first traces of the release appearing online as early as 2011. It may be Nashville tempered but it does not at all feel like a departure from her earlier discography. The same soul that distinguished Lucie from other artists in the mid noughties remains, anchored at the heart of every song - only this time it comes mixed with the new and different influences that Lucie has encountered since relocating to Music City. As radical as a switch to a different continent sounds, the resulting change in musical direction feels completely natural. 

Lucie only very recently made her Opry bow and Letters To Ghosts will almost certainly cement her position as a regular on that famous stage. This tremendous album is packed with honesty and emotion. The opening title track is a story of strength and loss, powered by an infectious stomp. The powerful 'Smoke' follows with a chorus that packs one hell of a punch and a captivating vocal. The word 'captivating' perhaps best describes the album as a whole with later songs such as 'Roots', 'Unbreakable Us' and 'Villain' leaving you hanging on each individual note.

It's not all intense. 'Find a Way', 'How To Lose It All' and 'Happy' are more upbeat numbers, a nice change of pace and a chance to take a breather between the heavier numbers. They lean more to the pop side of the spectrum, a little throwback to Lucie's earlier hits. This album will appeal to both new and old fans alike and I suspect that it will appeal to a whole host of new listeners.

In short, there is not a single bad track on this album. The time that has been taken for this album to come together has clearly been very well spent. Lyrically, it's clever and musically, it's an exciting new sound for Lucie, who has never sounded better.

I can't recommend this album enough and if you're lucky enough to be able to go to one of her upcoming UK shows, go so that you'll be able to say 'I was there' when she becomes one of Nashville's biggest stars.

Letters To Ghosts is officially released in the United Kingdom tomorrow (September 2nd) and Lucie will be embarking on a set of UK dates next week. For more information on both, visit luciesilvas.com.

Album Review: HARDLOVE - NEEDTOBREATHE

NEEDTOBREATHE are a band that are impossible to label. Their music has always been infused with a variety of genres. It's what makes the band stand out and stand the test of time and it's especially what makes their latest album, HARDLOVE, one of the year's most interesting releases so far. The four piece experiment even further on this, their sixth studio album.

There's a little bit of everything on this record and it's a fun journey, even if it's a little bit disjointed at times - musically, rather than lyrically.

The first half of the album is very full on. Title track, 'HARDLOVE' is a vibrant, pulsing track about how relationships are not straightforward and are often full of hardships needed to be overcome - hence the title. 'Money & Fame' is a definite highlight, the funk heavy number warning that the celebrity lifestyle is not as desirable as it seems. 'When I Sing' is another funky feeling song and whilst it's not as lyrically deep as the songs in the second half of the album, ii's still sweet nonetheless.

Lyrically, 'Let's Stay Home Tonight' and 'Clear' pack the biggest punch on the album and are found towards the end of the twelve tracks. The former is about how the simple things such as staying in with your love can be some of the most wonderful things, whilst the latter is a haunting piano led track - which was actually written for one of the brides of the band - and is absolutely beautiful.

HARDLOVE plays with many genres over the course of forty or so minutes and the variation of the songs is a welcome listen. This album will appeal to many and it deserves to be listened to by many. It's available now and it's well worth a purchase.

ALBUM REVIEW: Steven Tyler - We're All Somebody From Somewhere

Skepticism is only natural when an artist announces a genre switch. Some see such moves as attempts to stay relevant, others see moves as a mere marketing ploy, a move to cash in. Such views were vocally voiced when Aerosmith frontman Steven Tyler announced that his new record would be a country record. Yet, We’re All Somebody From Somewhere effortlessly quashes such arguments with a collection of some finely crafted country songs which contain as much heart as they do twang.

A lot of artists try to blend Rock and Roll and country together, with varying levels of success. Naturally Tyler pulls it off – what else would you expect from him?

‘My Own Worst Enemy’ is perhaps not the best album opener. It’s a slow track and for any skeptics listening, they may falsely believe that Tyler’s interpretation of country music is that of the infamous stereotype that the genre is all about songs about tough times. The song is good but definitely not representative of the whole album. The title track has the sort of swagger that Tyler is famous for (this song would have been a better choice to begin the album on) and ‘I Make My Own Sunshine is this reviewer’s personal favorite, a lovely carefree song which you can’t help but feel that this song is Tyler’s ode to the naysayers of this chapter of his storied career, as he sings on the chorus, It don’t matter if it’s raining, nothing can phase me, I make my own sunshine.

‘Only Heaven’ is slightly reminiscent to the iconic Aerosmith track, ‘I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing’ yet it is by no means a carbon copy, nor is that a detriment to the track with Tyler’s vocals just as strong now as they were then, a clear sign that the man is showing no signs of slowing down. ‘The Good, The Bad, The Ugly & Me’ follows (for those who listen in track album order) and is rockier, a lovely example of the versatility offered on the record.

There are a plentiful fifteen tracks on offer, all of a very, very high standard. I personally was surprised by the high quality of this album and I was very much excited about this release when it was announced. I suspect others – including and especially those skeptics – will also be pleasantly surprised.

We're All Somebody From Somewhere is available from July 15th.

Album Review: Eternal Blue - Billy Jeffrey Jnr

A few weeks back, I stood standing a few people back from the barrier at the ABC in Glasgow. It was a Saturday night which meant that the venue implemented a very strict and earlier curfew in order to clear the space for their club night that followed. This earlier curfew was a blessing as it greatly reduced the waiting time between doors opening and the time that a certain Mr Kip Moore would be taking the stage. Yet when the evening's support act took the stage, I forgot all about Kip.

The support act was Scotsman, Billy Jeffrey Jnr. and I'm not alone in saying that he was a major highlight of the night. He's also a name that some country fans will become familiar with forshould become familiar with, for he is simply an (as yet) uncovered gem.
Jeffrey will also be supporting Grammy Award winner Jason Isbell this coming August in Edinburgh. He's also a name that music fans in general

Eternal Blue is a stellar album, especially when you take into mind that it's also a debut album. It's a satisfying mix of genres - folk, country, soul, rock and strong Celtic influences to name but a few.

The album is one of tremendous depth and flows seamlessly. It's a beautiful collection of well crafted tracks but a two tracks stand head and shoulders above the rest (which is saying something as the standard of most tracks is very high). One is 'Ball and Chain', a particularly poignant track as Jeffrey sings about how the hardships and stumbling blocks of life are inescapable yet they also make you feel alive. 'Richly Blessed' is about love, how love can conquer obstacles and how the simple things in relationships can make you feel incredibly thankful for what you have. Both songs are exactly the sort of meaningful music that there never seems to be enough of these days.

My only grievance? At nine tracks, it's a little on the short side. But definitely worth the investment of both your time and money.


Billy is playing King Tuts (supporting Paul Newsome) May 27th and The Liquid Rooms (Supporting Jason Isbell) August 21st. Eternal Blue is available via digital platforms.