For the last half-decade, Luke Combs has been one of the premier faces of country music. Combs, along with Morgan Wallen and Zach Bryan, are running the genre right now in terms of commercial success. The North Carolina native is heading into his third straight summer headlining stadiums in just over six years since the release of his debut album, This Ones For You. It’s hard to believe that his fourth and most recent album, Gettin’ Old, is now celebrating its first birthday. 2023 was one of the most jam-packed years for country music, making the standout album feel much older than it is.
Luke Combs’s personal journey is beautifully reflected in this record, showcasing his evolution as both an artist and a person. This album, a direct sequel to Gettin’ Old, reveals a new side of Luke that is more mature and grounded than he’s ever appeared before. The opening track, “Growin’ Up and Gettin’ Old,” perfectly bridges the two projects, illustrating how Luke has transitioned from a down-home party animal to a responsible, mature adult who still knows how to have fun. Themes of reflection resonate across all 18 tracks, With each song offering a glimpse into different facets of Luke’s life, from his rowdy past to his present role as a father. This personal touch makes this album truly special and set apart from the rest of his discography, and as an audience, you feel invited to connect with Combs on a deeper level.
It would be impossible to reminisce on Gettin’ Old without pointing out his cover of Tracy Chapman’s “Fast Car.” It isn’t the best song here by any means, but obviously, it was by far the most successful. Other songs may exhibit more heart or creativity from Luke, but this cover was a cornerstone moment in the movement to make country music “cool again.” The song has spent the last year on the Billboard Hot 100, reaching a peak position at #2 only behind Morgan Wallen’s “Last Night.” Last February, Combs and Chapman finally teamed up for a chilling moment at the Grammy’s, where they performed the song together. An event like the Grammy’s rarely provides a truly authentic moment that curates goosebumps, but it shows the significance of the song that it can create a moment like that. Combs brought new life to a song 35 years later to a whole new demographic. Not only did he add his own flair that appealed to country fans, but he also showed the song to a new generation. Doing so also allowed Chapman to get the recognition she deserved for the iconic track all over again.
One of the most appealing aspects of Gettin’ Old is its versatility, offering a song for every mood while staying true to its theme. From happy to sad, upbeat to slow, each song serves as a reflection, inviting the audience to delve into their thoughts and memories. “See Me Now” is a prime example of this, a foot-tapping, fun song that reflects on Luke’s relationship with his late grandpas and their hypothetical reactions to his success. Gettin’ Old is both a collection of singles and a cohesive body of work, with each song adding a wholesomely unique element. “Joe,” a slower tune, tackles the theme of overcoming alcoholism and finding sobriety, which resonates with many. Whether reflecting on his past or present, as a teenager or as a father, Luke’s ability to fully immerse himself in each story is a testament to his growth as an artist, shifting from a star of the moment to a truly era-defining performer.
Looking back a year later, “Where The Wild Things Are” is not only the best song on the LP but might still be the best song in all country music a year from now. This past December, the single won Song of the Year in the Country Central Staff Picks Awards. Written by Randy Montana and Dave Turnbull, it is one of two songs Combs has ever cut without writing credit. However, much like George Strait and Garth Brooks before him, Luke shows that there’s a special art to identifying great songs as well as writing them oneself. In the last year, none of the 18 songs have aged as well as this one. As you follow the story of the main character’s brother, the listener can’t help but get goosebumps every time Combs sings, “They said he hit that guard rail at half past three” in the bridge. In just a four-minute song, a deep connection is being forged that anyone with a sibling can relate to. Indeed, it feels like the listener is losing someone, too. There is no such thing as fatigue when listening to “Where The Wild Things Are;” it hits just as hard as the first listen a year later.
Gettin’ Old is probably not his best or most memorable project overall. However, he takes more risks with it than he ever has with a record. In Growin’ Up, it felt like Combs was doing what felt safe in his comfort zone instead of truly pursuing the best version of what he does. It was good to see Luke venture out and try new things on this record, especially less than a year after its disappointing predecessor was released. Those thoughtful songs, inspired musical moments, and overall introspection has allowed Gettin’ Old to age so much better. As fresh and bright as it still sounds, it’s easy to forget that we’ve only had it for a year.
8.8/10
