Single Reviews – Week of 11/17/2023
Jealous of Jane – Lauren Watkins Written By Brandon Iozzo
Lauren Watkins finds herself quite literally “Jealous of Jane,” after refusing to put up with an ex’s toxic tendencies as he moves on to the next girl. The honky-tonk tune penned by the Warren Brothers, Caroline Watkins, and Lauren herself, comes off her latest EP Introducing: The Heartbreak, diving more into Watkins’s sassy musical personality; it’s both breezy and honest, and you get the feeling that the young singer-songwriter is starting to find her confidence. Though her EP includes features from Jake Worthington and Carter Faith that are solid in their own right, “Jealous of Jane” feels like the most significant “moment” in this collection as she finds her groove as a solo star.
8.1
Bet You Break My Heart – MacKenzie Porter Written By Brandon Iozzo
Canadian country starlet MacKenzie Porter jumps to predictable conclusions in “Bet You Break My Heart,” falling for a new man who she thinks will break her heart like others before him. Written by Chris Tompkins, Mark Holman, and Travis Wood, the track feels like a playful prelude to Porter’s own “Pickup;” Joey Moi layers some pristine pop-country sounds, and the hook is certainly catchy, but at this point in Porter’s career, it feels like MacKenzie would be better-suited with some more grown-up songs. With only one EP released by her label, “Bet You Break My Heart” probably isn’t the strongest lead for an album, but it’s a safe segue into her next artistic era.
7.0
Hard Candy Christmas – Zach Top Written By Will Chapman
In a world full of pop stars masquerading as country artists, Zach Top shines as a beacon of traditionalism. His voice is reminiscent of country legends such as Randy Travis and Keith Whitley, but it’s as unique as anyone in the game today. Covering a Dolly Parton all-time classic would be an ambitious move for most, but Top executes with grace and pure, Southern charisma. As always, his vocal delivery is outstanding, and the traditional, classic country production is filled with fiddle and steel that hug the vocal line. Top’s version of
Hard Candy Christmas” is one the better country Christmas songs we’ve heard in some time.
10.0
Wildcat – Wyatt Flores Written By Cam Greene
Pumped up and quick, “Wildcat” is a witty song about a barn-burning, young high school football player who wasn’t the strongest or best on his team, but was always a fan favorite. Written with David DeVaul, this song is an absolute hidden gem from his new EP Life Lessons. This song starts slow but goes from zero to 60 quickly as the blazing piano and guitar breathe so much life into the melody. To add to that, as “Wildcat” progresses, the narrative is enhanced by a marching band and the sound of referees blowing the whistle. With a certain passion and prowess that can only be achieved with a voice like Flores’s, it’s a joyfully memorable song that will keep you tapping your toe.
8.7
This Is My Dirt – Justin Moore Written By Creed Miller
Justin Moore gives fans a look into his personal life with his latest single “This is My Dirt.” The heartfelt track is all about the importance of the land where one grows up and the personal meaning behind it for Moore; for him, it’s the memories made on it that make it so meaningful. As the property is passed down through generations, the rich history continues to make an impact on what’s to come. Musically, Moore doesn’t typically stray too far out of his comfort zone, and “This is My Dirt” is another example of that. The song revolves around the same country-isms he’s sung about his whole career. That said, there is certainly commercial potential here since Moore has seen some success on the radio in the past with similar songs. A commercially viable single though it may be, most casual listeners probably won’t be amazed.
7.8
Seven Bridges Road – The Wilder Blue & Luke Combs Written By Creed Miller
Throughout their illustrious career, the Eagles have inspired generations of artists with an impact that’s still felt today, especially in country music. In their own ways, the Wilder Blue and Luke Combs each carry a bit of the Eagles into their artistry, and they pay the legendary band tribute with a terrific cover. The song is reworked a bit to better fit both the Wilder Blue’s and Combs’ styles; together, they give it a bit of silky flair that fits right in with country music today. Covering a legendary artist always comes with a huge amount of pressure and risk, but their tasteful spin is bright and new, yet still very respectful. Right off the bat, the rich harmonies set the tone for the rest of the track, and you know that this ensemble is doing “Seven Bridges Road” justice. From a group of longtime fans, this is a cover that’s really worth listening to.
8.5
Hillbillies & Betties – Renee Blair Written By Christina Bosch
The latest offering from Renee Blair tells a shimmering tale of the simple life and decides that as long as the best parts of small-town living stay the same, all will be right in the world. An interesting flip from her most recent releases, this track gives fans a sneak peek into the early days of her wild and confident alter-ego “Hillbetty” with a refreshingly soft touch. The award nominated songwriter penned this track with Blake Pendergrass, Lenny Pey, and Nick Bailey, and the serene small-town landscape suits the harmoniously twangy folk feel of the song. Renee’s delicate and breathy vocal delivery takes the ‘boy meets girl’ story and adds an element of strong nostalgia, reminiscent of Faith Hill and Trisha Yearwood’s heyday. With simple, plucky production by Jordan Schmidt, the lyrics shine. Renee Blair has found a place with her empowerment anthems, but this approach gives her forthcoming project some emotional gravitas.
8.3
Winter’s Come And Gone – Charles Wesley Godwin Written By Ryan Lippe
Though it’s a rarity that Charles Wesley Godwin isn’t credited with writing a song he sings, he performs it with the same care and style as if he did pen it. The West Virginian folk maestro interprets this ‘90s classic with specific vocal inflections on each line to craft a truly enthralling melody. Echoey, intricate guitar picking gives this song a specific texture that recalls Godwin’s early years as a solo artist circa Seneca. Coming off of his powerful third album, some fans may be looking for a more fleshed-out, layered sound, but in this context of the film this one is a part of, Godwin’s solo vocals and guitar convey the gloomy message of the song perfectly. In this instance, the simplicity speaks volumes to Godwin’s talent as a performer; He’s able to take such a uniquely touching tune and bring it to life in a way that not many others have the ability.
9.5
Catching Butterflies – Eddie Flint Written By Ryan Lippe
Still currently serving in the Navy, Eddie Flint has already enjoyed some real, viral moments, and he’s continuing to build on them with his latest release. Another tale of failed love, it’s surprising that Flint can stay this creative with his lyrics considering the number of repeated themes and troupes he’s used in his short career. The first and second verses are polar opposite views of a person after a breakup: first anger and resentment then somberly appreciating that person’s best qualities. The early buzzing of the guitar strings shows how he’s still a bit rough around the edges, but as the song progresses and Flint gets into a rhythm, the guitar starts sounding smoother and serves as a pleasant companion to his vocals. As the song closes out and enters the bridge, backing vocals come and add an extra layer of emotion that sends the message home and rounds out the song nicely. Though still undeniably green, Flint’s career and musical maturity are coming along gradually with every new release.
8.7
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