TAKING "REFUGE" IN THE MUSIC OF GRIFFIN ANTHONY

CD: Refuge

Artist: Griffin Anthony

Release Date: 10/12/18

Reviewer: Jennifer Smith

Follow Jennifer on Twitter at @Lovinlyrics

Meet singer/songwriter Griffin Anthony. Just his name brings to mind "unassuming and modest." Funny thing, because that's exactly what his music happens to be. Griffin provokes a gentleness that's anything but the norm in the world of today's music. It's a soft throwback to when music wasn't so mechanized and technical, a reminder of the simplicity of the magic that occurs when a pen is put to a piece paper, a voice is raw and natural and when combined with a guitar, evolves into something we could sure use these days, a change of musical pace, one that makes us slow down, listen to the silence between the notes and appreciate the gift. Griffin's new CD, "Refuge" is full of character and, as Fernando Botero once said, is"an oasis, a place or refuge from the hardness of life."

A native of New York, Griffin worked as a stagehand for the annual Newport Jazz and Folk Festival during his summers as a teen, realized (in his own words) that "language was power", began creating his own music and wound up signing with BMI and Orange Music Publishing in 2008.  He has performed at festivals including Wanee, SunFest and CMJ, while his music has been licensed by the likes of ABC, Hugo Boss and Disney.

"Refuge" was released on October 12 and was recorded at East Nashville’s The Bomb Shelter and produced by Jon Estes who has worked with the likes of Kesha and John Paul White and with assistance from Grammy Award-winning Andrija Tokic of Alabama Shakes. The simple 9 song collection will leave you feeling a little safer in a world of "in your face" music. It's a standout in a copy cat industry and while the folksy style may not be every listener's cup of tea, it sure beats some of the strongest shots of "whiskey" that are over-crowding the FM radio airwaves.

I could break this album down track by track but that wouldn't leave much to the listener's imagination, would it? The only way to truly GET this album is to sit in a quiet place, turn off the world and tune into these amazing stories of life, reality and situations we ALL can relate to. You'd be amazed how much of yourself you find when you get lost in some of these well crafted lyrical stories by Griffin. 

Well done.Thank you Griffin Anthony for putting some feeling back in the music and for doing what a writer does best, putting his listeners in the middle of the story.

You can purchase "Refuge" on iTunes and stream on Spotify. If you do download and choose to purchase digitally, please be sure to leave a review. You can also purchase "Refuge" on vinyl via Griffin's website.

"REFUGE" - TRACK BY TRACK

1. Two Americans (2:26)

2. Love on Love (2:37)

3. Only Hope Remains (3:34)

4. On the Level (3:17)

5. River (3:11)

6. 1954 (3:34)

7. Milly (3:46)

8. The Lucky Architect (3:03)

9. Coyote’s Lullaby (2:45)

Connect with Griffin Anthony at his website, www.griffinanthony.com or on social media: Facebook - GriffinAnthonyOfficial Twitter - @griffinanthony Youtube - www.youtube.com/griffinanthony Instagram -  www.instagram.com/griffinanthonymusic

CD REVIEW: THE OAK RIDGE BOYS SHINE THE LIGHT WITH NEW CD, "17TH AVENUE REVIVAL"

CD: "17th Avenue Revival"
Artist: Oak Ridge Boys
Release Date: 3/16/18
Reviewer: Jennifer Smith
Follow Jenn on Twitter at @Lovinlyrics

A revival is about unity, coming together and an excited awakening of the soul. The new CD from the Oak Ridge Boys, "17th Avenue Revival", will excite the soul and kick start the heart of it's listener through a new, yet familiar sound. Like the name of their new tour, "Shine the Light", this CD shines a bright light on faith and brings us all together, back to good place in controversial times.

When the Oak Ridge Boys met with producer Dave Cobb, this CD was a hit before any words were sung. Dave did what he's known best for - changing direction. He took them from their comfort zone and took them outside the walls of that box, gave them a nudge down a new road with a familiar destination - the avenue of soul and spirit. No one can bring more excitement and enthusiasm to a song like Joe Bonsall, Duane Allen, William Lee Golden and Richard Sterban. This CD is no different in that respect, but it is different in it's spiritual energy. It's a shock to the system that we all need right now, one that gets us back on our feet and one of a certain confidence. It's literally a revival of the soul. This project wasn't about trying to impress radio or trying to ride the charts, it's about putting the soul back into a song and that song putting the soul back into it's listener. Simple yet so complex, much like the Oak Ridge Boys themselves. This CD is everything the Oak Ridge Boys themselves are - honest, assertive, dynamic and determined.

The first track released from the CD, "Brand New Star" has already made an impression through their performances of the song on various television appearances on shows like "Huckabee" and Hallmark's "Home and Garden". Another song on the CD, "Pray to Jesus", a Brandy Clark/Shane McAnally burst of lyrical brilliance, has hit a high note with listeners. Great reviews of both songs are showing up on social media every day and Rolling Stone named it as one of the top 10 songs for February 2018.

Much love from MN and love the new song! ❤️@oakridgeboys #BrandNewStar @VerizonCenterMN pic.twitter.com/U0c8BicRaX

— Dana Willemsen (@WillemsenDana) January 13, 2018

Watching the @oakridgeboys on @HomeandFamilyTV that aired on Thursday this week. Major airtime, great conversation, and superb new single #BrandNewStar. Can't wait for #17thAvenueRevival @joebonsall @wlgolden @DUANEALLEN @RASterban

— Cheryl Spires (@CherylSpiresRD) February 17, 2018

I love this #newsong by @oakridgeboys! Oh yeah, they've still got it! I can't wait to get the #vinyl! @DUANEALLEN @wlgolden @joebonsall @RASterban #BrandNewStarhttps://t.co/2CyMWjvhKg

— Bryan Harwell (@bryanharwell) January 21, 2018

Hey @oakridgeboys What a fun song and Video! @joebonsall @wlgolden @DUANEALLEN Thanks for sharing your talent with us!! #PraytoJesus https://t.co/BdoR9I7oJv

— Sheri Lynn (@sheri_lynn95252) February 16, 2018

I have listened to #PrayToJesus several times today and I really like this version. Plus, any song written by Brandy and Shane is a winner in my book! 🙌🎶❤️

— Jamie Pappas (@JamiePappas27) February 9, 2018

"17th Avenue Revival" is a turning point and yet another milestone for the Oaks. I would bet the farm that you'll be seeing award nominations for this one. Get ready to bring home some more hardware for that trophy cabinet, Boys. You earned it with this one! You can purchase the CD online today at most digital outlets or you can order directly from www.oakridgeboys.com. The project is available on their website as a physical CD, on vinyl or cassette! They were offering some really cool Edison Cylinder versions but those sold out quicker than you could get onto the page to purchase!

CD REVIEW - RYAN SIMS: MY SIDE OF THE STORY

Album: "My Side of the Story"

Artist: Ryan Sims

Release Date: November 17, 2017

Reviewer: Jennifer Smith

Follow Jenn on Twitter at @Lovinlyrics

Cave Creek, AZ singer/songwriter Ryan Sims' sophomore album My Side Of The Story was recently released and includes collaborations with a supergroup of top shelf musicians including former John Mellencamp drummer Kenny Aronoff,  Rolling Stones’ bassist Darryl Jones, Elton John’s keyboardist Kim Bullard and Lady Antebellum’s guitarist Jason “Slim” Gambill. Combine all of this genius musical wizardry with the grit of Ryan's voice and the passion in which it was written. It's on a surefire path to success.

My Side Of the Story was produced by Justin Gray who has worked with such top selling artists including James Bay, Joss Stone, and Mariah Carey. The album ssums up a rocky and emotional year for Ryan) and the album is the culmination of a trying year for Ryan. Sims wrote or co-wrote every track on the album which is a musical outline of his deepest and most personal challenges including entering rehab for drug addiction, an ex-lover’s affair, the ending of a long-term relationship and a very emotional rollercoaster ride. It truly is his side of the story. Each song is heartfelt and honestly written and each is a testament to Ryan’s vulnerability, his strength and resilience as well as his depth as a writer. It's a bridge that connects the emotions through music.

This album is something that offers a relative story to every listener, some songs like "Tragedy" and "Red Head" are a little deeper and will bring tears to the eyes of those who have been through similar situations and there are those more upbeat songs like "Before I Sell Myself" will have you rooting for the singer and all will bring a deeper appreciation for the art of songwriting, musicianship and also for the manner in which each song is delivered.

You can purchase "My Side of the Story" on iTunes or stream on Spotify.

Connect with Ryan online:

Website - www.ryansimsmusic.com
Twitter - https://twitter.com/ryansimsband
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/RyanSimsBand
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ryansimsband
Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiuLwReHRijSWAEEkGY0OJw

EP REVIEW: "LEWIS BRICE", THE NEW DEBUT EP FROM LEWIS BRICE

EP: "Lewis Brice"
Artist: Lewis Brice
Release Date:  July 14, 2017
Label: Pump House Music
Reviewer: Jennifer Smith
Follow Jenn on Twitter at @Lovinlyrics

As if we weren't lucky enough to have one Brice in the world of music and songwriting, now we have another one. Lewis Brice has shown with his debut self-titled EP that he has some pretty strong musical legs to stand on by himself without having to flaunt his connection to brother, artist and hit songwriter Lee Brice. While Lee may have collaborated on the EP through co-writing one song and production, the EP is distinctively Lewis with his own touch of bluesy soul and twinged with southern rock.

The debut track, "Best Ex Ever", has already hit a stride on Spotify with over 400,000 streams and is quickly becoming a favorite having already made it's debut on Sirius XM Radio's "The Highway" right around Valentine's Day in February 2016 as a new music find, long before the EP was completed. The song centers around a break up and the lingering feelings of one of the "breakup'ees" who wants to maintain a friendship, even if that's not always the best thing to do. The song is much more than just relatable, it's personal. Admit it, we've all been there and most of us will keep right on going back there even when we know we shouldn't. Sometimes, there's just that something you can't let go of when it comes to the "Best Ex Ever". This song is just like it's subject, it's gonna be hanging on awhile. It just has that something that makes it catch the ear. For lack of a better phrase, it's just so damned catchy. "Messin' with My Mind", another track on the project and a great co-write with Matthew Quinton, is already establishing it's presence on Spotify with 200,000 streams and climbing.

I'm seriously thinking this EP must have come from shot after shot of Jack in a dark bar, tossing them back listening to some Skynrd, shooting pool and doing some reminiscing, commiserating and contemplating. Wherever it came from, it was a good place and Lewis Brice is definitely gonna leave his mark with his unique sound and his style of writing. He's rockin' his way right to a hit.

You can pick up the EP on most digital outlets.

Connect with Lewis on his website and on Twitter, Facebook, Youtube and Instagram.

Catch Lewis on these upcoming tour dates:

Jul 18 - The Hotel Cafe (Second Stage) - Los Angeles, CA

Jul 19 - Live Music at the Lake with Sunny Country 102.5 FM - Arroyo Grande, CA

Jul 28 - Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land - Sugar Land, TX

Aug 04 - South Shore Music Circus - Cohasset, MA

Aug 05 - Cape Cod Melody Tent - Hyannis, MA

Aug 06 - Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom - Hampton Beach, NH

Aug 22 - U Street Music Hall - Washington, DC

CD REVIEW: CHRIS STAPLETON: "FROM A ROOM, VOLUME 1"

CD: "From a Room, Volume 1"

Artist: Chris Stapleton

Reviewer: Jennifer Smith 

Follow Jenn on Twitter at @lovinlyrics

 How do you describe something this good without gushing? You can't. So to save some time and writer's cramp, here are my honest thoughts about the new Chris Stapleton CD, "From a Room, Volume 1":

Yep, there ya have it and if ya don't have it, get it. Now. Anywhere it's sold which is pretty much everywhere.

- Jenn

CD REVIEW: "GUITAR FOR SALE" - RAY SCOTT ... DING DING DING, WE HAVE ANOTHER WINNER!

#GuitarForSale is available now for pre-order on iTunes and Amazon.

In today's crush of country artists, there's one name that constantly stands out to me, Ray Scott. You won't find him selling out arenas or shaking his "moneymaker" on stage in a pair of nut-crushing designer jeans, instead, you'll find him perfecting his craft in smaller venues in front of more intimate crowds who love the real stuff, know every single lyric and know every song from the early years to his current single. Just a man and his guitar. You'll always find him somewhere between Haggard, Jennings, Jones and sometimes a little Ray Stevens.

Ray Scott may not be a household name but he is hardly an unknown. He's been performing nationwide since 2003, landing a record deal with Warner Bros in 2005 which produced his "My Kind of Music" CD which spawned 3 singles. After leaving Warner Bros, Ray took the path of an independent artist which is where he's built his following and really cemented his reputation in Nashville as a serious (if you can use that term in conjunction with someone who is rarely serious) country artist and songwriter. It was his hit single, "Those Jeans" that put his name on the map. The song was a hit both on Sirius XM's The Highway and a top requested video on GAC. To date, he has performed over 50 times on the historic Opry stage and he tours overseas every year. Ray is like country music Viagra, he's got staying power and provides hours of enjoyment.

His new CD, "Guitar for Sale", hits shelves tomorrow but for those fans who participated in his crowdfunding campaign and got their copy early are already giving it well deserved praise as are country music reviewers. This CD may be titled "Guitar for Sale" but the quality of the music on this project proves that Ray's creativity and talent are not. The songs on this CD come straight from Ray, a departure from his normal comedic schtick, they're like Ray himself, a little dark and moody yet personally relatable. The music on this CD comes from some of the industry's finest country musicians and the production of this CD comes straight from Nashville, not some misplaced pop production team. This may very well be Ray's springboard onto (gulp) country mainstream radio, if 

they show any common sense.

This one's well worth every spin and I think Ray's going to find himself with an even larger base of new fans.

Hey Ray, we love your kind of music!

Connect with Ray online. He's one of the most personally engaging artists on social media. It's all 100% Ray who responds because no social media manager could ever engage like Ray does with his fans.

Website - www.rayscott.com
Twitter - @rayalitycheck
Facebook - www.facebook.com/RayScottPage
Instagram - @rayscottmusic

CD REVIEW: "WELCOME HOME" - REX WISEMAN

CD: "Welcome Home"
ARTIST: Rex Wiseman
REVIEWER: Jennifer Smith
Follow Jennifer on Twitter at @Lovinlyrics

If you're a fan of the Oak Ridge Boys, then you already know who Rex Wiseman is and that he is quite literally the consummate country musician. Name an instrument, he plays the heck out of it and if he doesn't play it, he'll learn. His heart beats music, the notes and melodies run through his veins. He stands behind the Oak Ridge Boys every night as a longtime member of the Mighty Oaks Band, singing, playing and well, being Rex. Now, Rex has stepped into the studio and released his own CD, "Welcome Home." This CD has been in the works for quite awhile and I was lucky to have watched this go from dream to reality for him.

This CD is 14 tracks of some of the best "new grass" music performed by Rex and some of country music's biggest names including the Oaks, Dailey and Vincent, Jimmy Fortune and Rhonda Vincent and penned by some of the best writers in country music such as George Jones, Dean Dillon, Scotty Emerick, Skip Ewing, and others. This CD is a surplus of talent and if you're a fan of bluegrass or traditional country complete with pedal steel and fiddles, you will NOT be disappointed. This CD delivers a recital of amazing instrumentation, vocals and story telling that come together in the perfect way. This CD will help you find your way home.

"Welcome Home" Track Listing

1. I'm Ragged but I'm Right
2. Put My Little Shoes Away
3. The Watch
4. Old Camp Meeting Time (with the Oak Ridge Boys)
5. You Gotta Swim
6. Dancy's Dream
7. Help Me to Be More Like Him
8. A Love that Never Died (with Rhonda Vincent)
9. The Grandpa That I Know
10. Little Mountain Church (with Dailey and Vincent)
11. Welcome Home Soldier (with Jimmy Fortune)
12. Back to Dixie
13. The Farmer and the Lord
14. Still

If you would like to purchase a CD, email dixiedawgrecords@gmail.com and you will be sent an invoice in the amount of $20 + $3 shipping with a Paypal link to confirm your purchase. The CD is also available at the merchandise table at any Oak Ridge Boys show.

Rex's website is currently under construction.

CD REVIEW: "MARCUS LINDSEY" - MARCUS LINDSEY BAND

CD: Marcus Lindsey
Artist: Marcus Lindsey Band
Reviewer: Jennifer Smith
Follow Jenn on Twitter at @Lovinlyrics

Tonight being the airing of the 50th Anniversary of the CMA Awards, it seemed like the perfect time for me to tell as many country music fans as I can about the new self-titled album from a true "urban cowboy", Marcus Lindsey. The awards tonight is promoted as an homage to a genre of honest and simple music by artists that work hard to leave a positive impression and that and that's exactly what you get from Marcus and although I've had the CD for awhile, this is the exact reason I chose to wait until today to publish a review.

His first single released from the album, "One Less Fool In Amarillo" is a hint for this generation's singers to re-evaluate what this genre is about. It's not just about cut off shorts, white tank tops and making out on the hood of a truck while drunk on Fireball. It's about love, about loss, about holding on and about letting go. It's about how we handle the time between finding ourselves staring at the bottom of an empty bottle of Jack Daniels and seeing the light when we finally realize that enough is enough. This song is the start of a new beginning, something every one of us can relate to in one way or another. That's what this genre needs, emotional relativity. 

With upbeat tracks and heartbreaking ballads, Marcus Lindsey shows off his range and his ability to draw in even the most discerning country music fan. He made sure there was something for everyone and he did it well. This album brought back so many memories of nights at the Longbranch watching artists like Clint Black and Garth Brooks before they became household names and dancing around a sawdust floor to a jukebox of country classics. 

Marcus Lindsey is a vocal reminder that the days of George Strait and Keith Whitley aren't over, they've just been waiting until the right time to come around again.  

You can connect with Marcus online at www.marcuslindsey.net or on Twitter at @mlindseyband and Facebook at www.facebook.com/marcuslindseyband.

CD REVIEW: "VINYL" - WILLIAM MICHAEL MORGAN

CD: "Vinyl"

Artist: William Michael Morgan

Release Date: 9/30/16

Reviewer: Jennifer Smith

Follow Jenn on Twitter at @Lovinlyrics

Times are changin' and so is the direction of country music thanks to artists like William Michael Morgan. His Sam Hunt penned debut single, "I Met A Girl", put the country music charts on a new tilt and went all the way to #1 after 49 weeks, setting a Mediabase chart record for longest climb to number one. It may have taken awhile to find it's way to the top of the charts, but it sure didn't take long to find it's way to the #1 place in the hearts of traditional country music fans, Now, with the release of his much anticipated debut album "Vinyl", fans have even more reason to be excited. It takes a special kind of artist to start a fire and William Michael Morgan seems to be just the spark that's needed.

Each track on the album reflects who William Michael Morgan is, honest and simple with a deep love for the style of country music that seems to have gotten lost somewhere along the way but that so many of us have held on, waiting for it to find it's way again. He isn't just looking the part with his cowboy hat and Wranglers, he IS the part. His voice is pure and smooth with a hint of Strait that will make your belt buckle. What a refreshing thing to hear when you turn on the radio. Yes, I said radio because even they've seen that what he has to give is much needed. Thank you to all of the stations who took a chance and added the single to their playlists. I promise you that your listeners appreciate it. Even today's younger demographic is pleased in two ways, "I Met a Girl" is a well written song by one of pop country's most popular artists, Sam Hunt, and a well sung song by one of country's hottest traditional newcomers, Morgan. It appeals across the dial.

This is a CD that should be purchased in it's entirety and not limited to the purchase of one or two individual tracks because every track delivers. With songs written by some of country's best writers including, in addition to Sam Hunt, Rhett Akins, Trent Tomlinson, Casey Beathard and Kevin Denney, you really can't go wrong. There is no wrong on this CD, nothing that honest critics can give a thumbs down to. There will be more hits on the way from this album, I'd bet the ranch on it. William Michael Morgan has proven he has more than just potential as a bonafide country artist, he's cemented his future in the genre.

Track Listing for Vinyl

1. People Like Me
2. Vinyl
3. Missing
4. I Met a Girl
5. Spend It All on You
6. Beer Drinker
7. I Know Who He Is
8. Cheap Cologne
9. Somethin' to Drink About
10. Lonesomeville
11. Back Seat Driver

"Vinyl" is available on iTunes, Amazon, Spotify and Walmart.

Connect with WMM online 

Website - www.williammichaelmorgan.com
Twitter - @WMMorgan
Facebook - WilliamMichaelMorgan
Instagram - wmmorganmusic
Youtube - wmmorganmusic

CD REVIEW: "IT'S ALL IN THE FAMILY" - SYLVIA

CD: "It's All in the Family"
ARTIST: Sylvia
RELEASE DATE: 10/7/16
REVIEWER: Jennifer Smith
Follow Jenn on Twitter at @lovinlyrics

Pre-order "It's All in the Family" on iTunes and receive 2 tracks instantly

If you order the physical CD on CDBaby, you will receive an autographed copy

One single word brings back so many great memories of country music in the 80's and 90's for myself and many others. That single word is Sylvia. Even her mega hit song, "Nobody" was another single word but it sure made a big impact on country radio and had fans singing it and radio playing it. I remember putting the needle on the vinyl 45 and pretending I was in her shoes, only I was singing to the world in front of my mirror with my mom's hairbrush. It's those memories that last a lifetime and it's songs like "Nobody" that remind you of moments that weren't able to be captured on cell phone video or passed around social media. Songs like these are responsible for the memories of times that each of us were lucky enough to experience and are blessed to keep pressed between the pages of your mind and heart like a four leaf clover pressed between the pages of an old book for safe keeping.

Today's popular country music fan base may have changed and they may not recognize the name but Sylvia is far from a "Nobody" in the world of country music having released 10 albums since 1981, selling over 4 million records, her #1 song "Nobody" was the 1983 BMI Song of the Year garnering more airplay than any other song in the same year and spent a whopping 52 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100. Her other notable hits include "Snapshot", "Like Nothing Ever Happened", "Drifter" and many more. Another awesome fact is that her song "The Matador" was the very first concept video on CMT. Sylvia took a "detour" from the country music scene for a few years but she couldn't fight the feeling that it was the right time for her to return. Her first album in 14 years, "It's All in the Family", is set to release on October 7. The CD includes 12 tracks, most of which were co-written by Sylvia and notable writers including Thom Schuyler, Craig Bickhardt, Jeff Pennig, Kate Campbell, Bobby Tomberlin, and Mark Narmore. The CD is a deeply personal project for her. Each song is a relationship between her life, challenges and decisions that brought her to where she is today. Each song is a personal reflection on the road she's taken.

The entire CD is a thoughtfully put together compilation of honest sentiment, a "musical heartbeat" of sorts, and every song a personal testament that will reach into the heart and will affect each listener in a different way, with flashbacks to times and loved ones in their lives and challenges faced and overcome. The song that really did this for me was the title track, a story that is passed on from a grandmother to a granddaughter while looking through the old family photo album. The depth and raw, natural beauty of Sylvia's vocals will immediately grab your attention, make you stop and really listen to the message of the lyrics and the and between you and me, the listener may just find themselves a little misty (or so I hear ... *ahem*). "It's All in the Family" is a stand out in today's country as stories of Sylvia's yesterday unfolding in a new chapter for her future. It's a reminder of what matters and what's important and how fragile every day is. Wonderful CD. Just wonderful. The world needs more Sylvia and the timing of this release is absolutely spot on perfect.

Editor's Note; Thank you to Sylvia and the songwriters for the love you put into this project and the personal doors you've opened to the listener. This CD took me to places I'd long forgotten and brought me to tears. This was well worth the wait. 

 - Jenn 

CD REVIEW: NIGHTHAWK - CHARLIE DANIELS

CD: "Nighthawk"

ARTIST: Charlie Daniels

RELEASE DATE: 8/26/16

REVIEWER: Jennifer Smith

Follow Jenn on Twitter at @lovinlyrics

You can purchase "Nighthawk" on iTunes and Amazon.

Without having heard the first song, two words told me right off the bat this was going to be a great CD - Charlie Daniels. The second thing that told me this was going to be a great cd, the title of the first track - Big Balls in Cowtown. How can you go wrong with Charlie Daniels and Big Balls? They're synonymous! He's known for having the biggest balls out there when it comes to patriotism and speaking his mind AND he's known for great music. It's an instant winner! Ding! Ding! So with those two things going for it already, I decided to put on my Bose noise cancelling ear phones, tune out the world and tune in a country legend.

Charlie took a little different road with this one so if you're looking for "The Devil Went Down to Georgia", you're on the wrong map. This time, he decided to delve into the cowboy tradition and with a musical Larry McMurtry style, he's roped a hit with acoustic performances, classic covers of hits by Bob Wills and Stan Jones and the Death Valley Rangers, a kick of western swing, and classic Charlie Daniels story telling truth. If you listen close enough, your mind will envision stories being sung around a roaring campfire accompanied by a lonely harmonica and the howl of a distant coyote. "Nighthawk" digs down deep and resurrects the deep drawl of grandpa's fiddle, the strum of the banjo and the familiar sound of classic Appalachia. Once again, Charlie does his own thing and it works perfectly. 

Track by Track  

Track 1 - "Big Ball's in Cowtown"

Track 2 - "Billy the Kid"

Track 3 - "Nighthawk"

Track 4 - "Stay All Night (Stay a Little Longer)"

Track 5 - "Goodnight Loving Trail"

Track 6 - "Ghost Riders in the Sky - A Cowboy Legend"

Track 7 - "Running with the Crowd"

Track 8 - "Old Chisholm Trail"

Track 9 -  "Can't Beat the Damned Ole Machine"

Track 10 - "Yippie Ki Yea"

CD REVIEW: "PAGEANT MATERIAL" - KACEY MUSGRAVES

CD: "Pageant Material"

ARTIST: Kacey Musgraves

REVIEWER: Jennifer Smith

Follow Jenn on Twitter at @lovinlyrics

Purchase "Pageant Material" on iTunes  

With the fast growing movement of women in country music, the release of Kacey Mugraves' long awaited sophomore album, "Pageant Material" is right on time. I think that everyone was expecting Kacey to go big on this CD, but instead on this new collection of music from one of country's "love it or hate it" artists, she went bigger in a small way. What you get isn't an "in your face" collection of songs, instead you get a more personal truth as Kacey decides to tell it in her own unique way. While mainstream radio may not readily accept her truth, music critics certainly have come to appreciate it.

This CD seems to be a little more subdued, yet still campy and brutally honest version of Kacey. One thing that you can always count one is her unique "lessons" like in "Follow Your Arrow." This album comes across as more of a soul searching expedition and one that says much more than the average ear who only listens to the surface thinks it does. These songs are reflective, they seem to be personal and she seems to be telling her story. Personally, while I was a big fan of her debut CD, I'm an even bigger fan of this one. Again, it's not gonna be something for everyone, but it is something that everyone who loves Kacey is going to appreciate and want to listen to on repeat.

Kacey is always gonna squeeze in at least one lyrical middle finger to society and the establishment. This CD has two fingers. The first single off of the CD, "Biscuits", is her ode to "just keep your nose in your own business." These days, that seems to apply so much more with social media and people always wanting to know who's doing what, what's going on and what everyone thinks. Who cares? Watch your own backyard and you might be surprised that it's not as green as freshly mowed as you thought. Now when someone sticks their nose all up where it shouldn't be, I'm simply gonna smile, think of hot homemade biscuits, point at them while I just say "gravy", laugh and walk away. There is another song on the CD that has personally made me love Kacey even more, "Good Ol' Boys Club." She makes it known that she's not interested in being a member of the same old same old, she'd rather do her own thing and not become a mold of someone else's idea of who she should be. She's far from the mold and if that's what's keeping her from being played on country radio, kudos to her because it just shows me that she's more about the integrity of crafting and performing music than standing in the spotlight and being the topic of everyone's gossip and conversation. This is what I love about Kacey, she doesn't write and release what others want her to write and release, she sticks to her guns and to her heart and writes what SHE wants. She controls her own creativity and if I could virtually high five her for it, I totally would. To me, she's like a female version of Johnny Cash, a stand out, someone who's known for her attitude and her music rather than simply an image. It's working because she's getting rave reviews on her music and now she can add another one to the list.

EP REVIEW: "LOCKS ON DOORS" - JT HODGES

EP: "Locks on Doors"
ARTIST: JT Hodges
REVIEWER: Maria Talamo
Follow Maria on Twitter at @maria_talamo

Click here to purchase on iTunes

Please remember to leave a review!

Up and coming country artist JT Hodges is back at it again with his latest EP "Locks on Doors" which follows his 2012 self titled album which spawned the hits "Sleepy Little Town", "Hunt You Down" and "Goodbyes Made You Mine.". The six track EP is without a doubt going to launch Hodges into the next phase of his career.

The EP begins with the title track "Locks on Doors" where Hodges sings about slipping away from the crowd with a girl, locking the doors and ignoring the rest of the world for a bit. The second track and newest single "Ray Bans" is sure to be the perfect summer song. From the catchy background music to the infectious lyrics, this song will be stuck in your head for days. It tells the story of the girl that got away, but she still has his Ray bans to remember him by. The single is making big waves with fans and with Sirius XM's The Highway where it's been featured as a #HighwayFind, so be sure to let them know you want to hear it! The EP also includes the catchy tracks "Gonna Need a Guitar," "Girls Like It," "Wrong Side of the Bed," and "She's Alive," all of which are sure to find their way onto your everyday playlists.

Hodges' father has always told him "it's all about being true to who you are" and I think it's pretty safe to assume that his father is proud of him for staying true to himself. He has such a unique country sound that will without a doubt payoff in the very near future.

CD REVIEW: "MAN AGAINST MACHINE" - GARTH BROOKS

CD: "Man Against Machine"

Artist: Garth Brooks

Release Date: 11/11/14

Reviewer: Jennifer Smith

Follow Jennifer on Twitter at @LovinLyrics

I just have to start this review off  in the words of the immortal Madea, HALLELUYER! Garth Brooks officially made his comeback announcement over the summer and he's done a few tour stops, but THE MAN came in like a raging lion this week and made his presence known with the release of his long awaited comeback CD, "Man Against Machine" and he swooped in like the country music behemoth he is and, for the first time, took over the social media world, adding over a million likes on Facebook within only a few hours. The talk of the music world is now "11/11/14" and the day country music took a stand and the fans stood strongly with it. I feel a revolution coming on and &!$%! does it feel good!

With a carefully selected collection of new music, Garth has planned this album with precision and quality. If you're looking for "Fireball", "tailgates", and "white tank tops" here, you're not gonna find it. That's not what Garth is about, he's never been about shallow, his music has always reflected his depth as an artist. What you will find here is human emotion, a sense of pride, respect and story telling done only the way Garth can do it and music that is a variety of different content and style. Garth has always been known as a gentleman, not only in his every day way of approaching life and treating people, but in the music he chooses to release. He's ready to bring manners, courtesy, dignity and admiration back to the genre as a whole and to try to bring the listener appreciation back to the music itself, the writing, the performance. What you will find here isn't all twang, fiddle and steel, you will find those mixed in with strong guitar riffs, a thick heartbeat of percussion, an "amped up" version of the Garth we all fell in love with decades ago and that familiar voice, that while not perfect, is a little weathered from the years, but is one that still takes you "home". What this cd represents is literally what the title says, "Man Against Machine", one man who is tired of the establishment, the "new thinking" of Nashville and the fact that the focus has drifted from creativity and making credible lasting music to simply making another buck for the overstuffed corporate wallet. Whether you like Garth or not, you have to love that he's willing to fight for what he and millions of country fans believe in, the music and the ideals that represent country music. We're ready for the fight.

Songs to Pay Attention To:

"She's Tired of Boys" - Written by Amanda Williams whose father wrote many of Garth's big hits.
"All American Kid" - Written by Craig Campbell, that's an added bonus right there!
"Mom" - This one brought an entire studio at Good Morning America to tears, fair warning.
"Send 'Em on Down the Road" - The title says it all.

I give it a big country YEE HAH and a tip of the Stetson for doing it right.

CD REVIEW: "NASHVILLE OUTLAWS: A TRIBUTE TO MOTLEY CRUE" - VARIOUS ARTISTS

CD: "Nashville Outlaws: A Tribute to Motley Crue"
ARTISTS: Various
LABEL: Big Machine
RELEASE DATE: 8/19/14
REVIEWER: Jennifer Smith
Follow Jennifer on Twitter at @Lovinlyrics

As a die hard child of the 80's headbanging hair metal and to the bone country music fan, I will be the first one to admit that I rolled my eyes and let out a big heaving sigh of "Oh God, nuh uh" when I first heard that country and metal were gonna come together on a tribute CD to one of my favorite 80's bands on the planet, Motley Crue. I thought to myself "Ok, we don't have to cross every genre line do we? Can't we just leave some things alone?"  So, like many others, I just shook my head as I waited for the first mediocre single by Justin Moore, "Home Sweet Home", which is also my favorite Crue song, to be released. Release day came and I have to admit, I absolutely love his anything but mediocre rendition of it. I said to myself, "Self" (I knew it was me because I recognized my underwear), "maybe this won't be as bad as you think" to which my other self replied "Oh it's probably gonna suck." Turns out my other self was wrong. I'm not a fan of tribute albums, I think they're done far too often and just don't care for them but this one surprised me. It's not bad, for the most part, it's actually pretty decent. It's not outstanding, but there are a handful of tracks that I think are the standouts on the cd so those are the ones I'll mention.

Track 15.) "Time for Change" -  Darius Rucker 

If anyone knows about change, it's Darius Rucker. Coming from being known as the frontman for
Hootie and the Blowfish and taking on a whole new musical identity as one of country's most loved
artists, Darius changes this song up very well. I love what he's done with it, he puts emotion into
it and personally makes me want to stand up and make a change, whether it be to my surroundings, my outlook on every day life or to help someone else make a change. It is time for change and I think we all need a change. The song is upbeat with Darius' signature style, one that has you singing along before you even realize it. Love this song, loved it as Crue and love it as Darius, maybe even a little better as Darius.

Track 9: "Don't Go Away Mad" - Eli Young Band 

Eli Young Band was the perfect choice for this remake. They bring life to every song they sing and they gave a breath of new life into this one. I love the twang, the tempo and the attitude they bring. I don't know about you, but I am always thinking "Don't go away mad, just go away" at least twice a day, now I can sing it and get away with it.

Track 8: "Without You" - Sam Palladio / Clare Bowen 

I absolutely love what Sam and Clare did with this track. I never really cared for the original but they made me take another listen and it's amazing what a country turn and a few tweaks to tempo and emotion can do to a song. They slow it down, make it personal and make you feel that this is truly a conversation between 2 people expressing their love for each other. Honestly, it kinda reminds me of a cheesy 70's love song that you can't help but fall in love with. It's the Barry Manilow "Mandy" on this generation's playlist. Love it.

Track 6: "Afraid" - Aaron Lewis

I am huge fan of Aaron Lewis but admittedly wasn't sure what to expect when I saw him listed as an artist on this cd and having never heard "Afraid" as a Crue song, that made me even more anxious to see the outcome. I love the "Country Boy" feel of this one with the crying steel and the lonesome guitar. Aaron Lewis has a special way of making you listen to what he's singing and he does just that on this song. I really love the lyrical content - "It's only life, so afraid to kiss, so afraid to laugh, and she's runnin' from her past. It's only life, she's so afraid to love." I think a lot of people can identify with this song because we're all afraid of something. Well done. This is probably my favorite track on the whole cd. 

Track 4: "Home Sweet Home" - Justin Moore

This was the song that I really had my doubts about. I knew this was gonna be one of those songs when cut by someone else, was going to be one you either really love or really hate. I really love it. I love that they chose to keep Vince Neil as a part of the remake, his vocals are really a necessity to make it the hit it was meant to be. I think this song really gave Justin a chance to show his range, his vocal strength and to really unleash what we really haven't heard before. A hard one to really impress, I admit I am impressed. I have seen a lot of stations adding this one and I sure hope to see more follow suit. I think Justin blew it out on this one.

Is this gonna be a top selling cd? Probably not. Is it gonna be an addition to my playlist as a whole?
Nope. Am I going to purchase the tracks above? Yep. In my opinion, it's not a "must have", it's a "track by track, listen and see" cd.

There, now we've done the country + hair metal thing, we've done the country + rap thing, we've done the country + pop thing, can we stop with the mindset that we have to infuse country with everything else and give it a chance to stand on it's own again? There are plenty of great writers and songs out there to let it live on it's own merits.

You can PRE-ORDER Nashville Outlaws on iTunes and Amazon now.

THIS WEEK'S NEW RELEASES SUMMED UP IN ONE SENTENCE - TUESDAY, JULY 8, 2014

Looking for the latest in new music? Every Tuesday, we post the featured new releases from iTunes. Most are also found on Amazon if you don't use iTunes. Check out what's available this week from some of your favorite artists and some you may not be familiar with YET.

If you download digitally, please remember to leave a review! They help more than you realize.

"Dirt" - Florida Georgia Line

Our opinion: "We totally 'dig' this one and there is no doubt that FGL fans will too."

Purchase on iTunes

"His Hands" (Live) - Jennifer Nettles featuring Brandy Clark

Our opinion: "Great music in the "Hands" of two of country's best female artists"

Purchase on iTunes

"Til You Stop Getting Up" (EP) - Dean Miller

Our opinion in one sentence: "Dean is at his personal best with this release, best summed up in two words "musical brilliance."

Purchase on iTunes

"Moonshine in the Trunk" CD Pre-Order - Brad Paisley

Our opinion in one sentence: "Brad brings the summertime party with this release."

Purchase on iTunes

"Bridges" - Mary Sarah

Our opinion in one sentence: "Traditional country sung from the heart of one of country's brightest new stars shines bright and 'bridges' the gap by making your mama's country brand new."

Purchase on iTunes

"Look Again to the Wind - Johnny Cash's Bitter Tears Revisited" CD - Various Artists

Our opinion in one sentence: "No bitter tears here, only tears of country happiness."

Purchase on iTunes

"Brothers of the Southland" CD - Blackhawk

Our opinion in one sentence: "Goodbye didn't say it all because Blackhawk is back in true Blackhawk form with this big country howdy."

Purchase on iTunes

"Leave a Scar: Live in NC" - Blackberry Smoke

Our opinion in one sentence: "Southern country rock at it's finest, putting the "kick" in "ass kickin" and keeping it real, as in real good." 

Purchase on iTunes

CD REVIEW: "PEACE, LOVE AND COUNTRY MUSIC" - RONNIE DUNN

CD: "Peace, Love and Country Music"
Artist: Ronnie Dunn
Label: Little Will-E Records
Release: 4/8/14
Reviewer: Jennifer Smith
Twitter: @LovinLyrics

Well damn it, it's about time. Ronnie Dunn just put some actual country back in country music with his latest release, "Peace, Love and Country Music." This time, he's doing it HIS way, unapologetically, and he's following his own dirt road of musical independence with this new release on his own label, Little Will-E Records.

Country has been breathing the same stale air for the past couple of years, and yes, while there have been maybe a handful of more traditionally infused country releases, this one finally clears that air just enough so we can breathe again. Radio keeps saying "country's evolving", "there's room for everyone in country" but unfortunately that just hasn't seemed to ring true as of late when it comes to veteran artists, those who have chosen to maintain a style steeped in country tradition, who haven't crossed that genre bending line of pop/country. If that is true, how about adding songs from this cd to your playlists and filling some of that "room" with music from this cd and give fans something to hang on to? Fans want it, they've been extremely vocal about the lack of twang, the lack of substance and the lack of music that is easily distinguished from every other song in the Top 20. Ronnie Dunn is nothing if not distinguishable and his music is more than easily identified in a country music lineup. Now granted, there are a few songs on the cd that aren't "that country" and are more rock oriented with some "bro-country" lyrics, but for the most part, this cd is fantastic.

The very first track, "Grown Damn Man", pretty much tells you the story of Ronnie Dunn. He's been around the block a time or two or seven, he's seen the good, the bad and the ugly yet he still remains who he is and he may be "rough around the edges" but when it comes to living his life, he's doing it his way and keeping true to his path. That's why we love him. Honesty is hard to come by, but not when it comes to the music of Ronnie Dunn. I really don't have to break down every track on this cd because I honestly don't have time to write a book and trying to express just how good this cd is would require a lot of time because it is just that good. I will say that his rendition of "You Don't Know Me" will make you want to smoke a cigarette when it's over, even if you've never smoked a cigarette in your life. *WHEW*. I'm just gonna save the time and tell you that this cd is mama's Sunday cookin, it's a worn leather saddle on an old broke horse, it's a few spins around a sawdust floor with a partner, it's memories made new again and at times, it is also somewhat of the "spur in your saddle" that makes you sit up and pay attention. It's a combination of Ronnie's spirit, his heart and his relentless pursuit of consistently bringing good music to country music fans. "Peace, Love and Country Music" is exactly the 3 things it's named for - it brings PEACE when you just want to hear some great music,  it's the perfect cure when you miss the kind of music that made you fall in LOVE with country in the first place, and it's COUNTRY MUSIC done Ronnie Dunn style. This cd says that it's time to just let this long, tall cowboy rock.

You can pick up your copy of "Peace, Love and Country" on CountryOutfitters.com or you can download it digitally on iTunes today. Be sure to leave a review if you download it and let Ronnie know what you think.

Connect with Ronnie online at the following places (and yes, he does personally interact):

www.RonnieDunn.com
www.twitter.com/ronniedunn
www.facebook.com/ronniedunnmusic

CD REVIEW: "10,000 TOWNS" - ELI YOUNG BAND

CD: 10,000 Towns

ARTIST: Eli Young Band

RELEASE DATE: 3/3/14

LABEL: Universal Republic

WRITTEN BY: Ingrid Loose

TWITTER: @LivestreamGirl

Eli Young Band is back with a brand new, much anticipated cd, "10,000 Towns", set for release March 3, 2014. Here's what our team member, Ingrid, had to say about the cd in her review:

"Starting off with “Drunk Last Night,” the lead off track by the Eli Young Band, this CD is a powerhouse of great music. It’s been quite some time since I’ve liked every song on a CD, but I found myself playing this CD over and over and it just got better the more I listened. The songs are well done with relatable lyrics and upbeat tempo. Even the slower paced songs keep your attention and are well written. I found myself initially finger tapping along with beat and by mid-way through the CD, my whole body was swaying to the music. 

The songs were terrific. Anyone who has ever grown up in a small town will find the title track “10,000 Towns” a feel good song that takes you back to yearning for the small boring traditions that come with small town life. “Dust”, their latest single from the release, is a foot tapping upbeat new favorite song for me. Anyone who's ever dreamed of changing their life, starting new and not looking back, will be cranking up this song with the car windows down, burning their own dust in no time. “Angel Like You” slows things down a bit, a reminder that we all need someone who keeps us grounded, that one person who sticks with us no matter what. “Let’s Do Something Tonight” picks up the pace and makes you want to let go of your inhibitions, do something a little crazy (something that might get others “talking about it in the morning”). Love is captured in all forms as the CD continues and anyone who has loved and lost and is hesitant to give their heart away again will relate to “Your Last Broken Heart” and “What Does” (a song that just might make you cry). “Just Add Moonlight” will get your feet moving to the music and is another new all-time favorite for me, love it! Ever been in a relationship that just doesn’t seem right and you realize it before making the biggest mistake of your life? “Revelations” reminds us that sometimes love doesn’t work out and it’s a good thing. I loved it for it upbeat temp, almost jazzy subtle undertones. The CD rounds out with “Prayer for the Road”, an incredible song about how supporting someone you love with small gestures makes a difference in ways unimaginable. It inspires me to find love as it should be, unconditional.

Bravo Eli Young Band for a CD that offers everything life has - love, the search for meaning of life, happiness, sorrow, choices and consequences. As I listened to the CD, it conjured many different emotions but isn’t that exactly what good music is supposed to do? The whole CD flows well from song to song and is well worth a listen."

"10,000 Towns" is a "must have" for anyone's collection and is the album that finally brings Eli Young Band the attention and recognition they've long deserved. 

You can find EYB online:

www.eliyoungband.com

Twitter: @EliYoungBand

Facebook: EliYoungBand

iTunes: http://goo.gl/LA8rpU

Amazon: http://goo.gl/oCsOrf

You can find this new cd at most internet and retail outlets.

CD REVIEW: "THE WOMAN I AM" - KELLIE PICKLER

CD: "The Woman I Am"
Artist: Kellie Pickler
Release Date: November 11, 2013
Label: Black River Entertainment

Kellie Pickler is one of the best and most recognizable, unique female voices in country and by far one of it's most vibrant personalities, why she hasn't been recognized as such by country radio, well the industry in general to be honest, is a mystery to many. Hopefully this is the album that will change that and give her the acclaim she deserves.

"The Woman I Am" is more than another new release for Kellie, it's a 12 track love story of her life, her deep rooted love for country music, her strong love of family and her personal love for who she is. There is obvious growth in this release, a maturity and depth that come with time and this is Kellie's time. After 2 cds that just didn't really do her justice, she decided to change things up a little on her last release, "100 Proof", put her twang, southern gumption, confidence and backbone into her music and prove that she's more than the "minx" that Simon Cowell described her as being on American Idol and being more than the typical blonde country singer wanna be that some seem to perceive her to be. She shows that she can stand on her own as a serious artist and she's done just that. Kellie showcases 100 proof vocals and makes it known that not only is she is an artist to be reckoned with, she's just downright "Tough".

Our picks for stand out songs on this cd are: the seductive "Someone Somewhere Tonight" (the video features her Dancing with the Stars partner, Derek Hough), the sassy "Ring for Sale" about her payback to the guy who did her wrong, her truthful tribute to her grandmother "Selma Drye", her personal proclamation and title track, "The Woman I Am" and the boot stompin' feel good "No Cure for Crazy" ...

The cd is available at most retail outlets as well as iTunes and Amazon.

CD Review: "4340" - GEORGE DUCAS

CD: "4340"
Artist: George Ducas
Label: Loud Ranch
Release Date: 10/29/13

One of country's most prolific songwriters and performers (and a longtime personal favorite), George Ducas, is set to release his long-awaited, full length cd "4340" on October 29, 2013 and it can't come soon enough for fans. If you're not familiar with George, he's been a staple in country music for years, not only with his writing with hits like "Real Fine Place to Start" (Sara Evans), "Won't Be Lonely Long" (Josh Thompson) and cuts by other artists like George Jones and Garth Brooks, but with his own hits like "Lipstick Promises" and "Every Time She Passes By". When it comes to simplistic tradition, George Ducas is exactly that.

George is known for his unique edge and enduring style and he doesn't fail to deliver in this new project. This cd not only features his own writing, but songs co-written by some of the best in the business Keifer Thompson (Thompson Square), Jim Beavers ("Red Solo Cup" - Toby Keith), Radney Foster ("Just Call Me Lonesome" - Radney Foster), Jon Henderson ("Family Man" - Craig Campbell)  and Jason Matthews ("Must Be Doing Something Right" - Billy Currington). There is nothing lacking on this cd, it's teaming with style, grace, tradition, thump and twang. There is something for everyone here. This is a brilliant cd, for lack of a better term.

His lead in single, the upbeat and assertive "CowTown" (co-written with Jim Beavers) recently went out to country radio after being introduced to his local fans in his home state of Texas and is keeping crowds on their toes at the live shows. Having seen George perform this single live, it will definitely get you up and moving. The single has garnered great reviews so far. There is a great track listing on this cd, "Give Me Back My Honky Tonk" which I think speaks for those of us whose musical interests are rooted in traditional country, "I Need to Love You", "White Lines and Road Signs", "This One's Gonna Hurt" and other great tunes. A stand out on the cd is "Amnesia", which was co-written by Jason Matthews. I hope to see this one released to country radio. It's an outstanding song, one that we can all relate to, in that when it comes to relationships, and life in general, sometimes we all just need a little "Amnesia" to get us through. You won't need amnesia to get you through this cd, this is one you'll remember just fine.

You can order the cd on George's website at www.georgeducas.com and at various online retailers. Don't forget to leave a review if you purchase it on Amazon or other online outlets.