Single Reviews – Week of 10/20/2023
Way to Go Girl – Chris Lane Written By Brandon Iozzo
Fresh off of his new EP From Where I’m Sippin’, Chris Lane releases a predictable wordplay-laden track “Way to Go Girl” about a girl moving on from her old boyfriend. The song is co-written by Ashley Gorley, Blake Pendergrass, Casey Brown, and John Byron; aside from the cutesy double-meaning of the title, which has become a staple in mainstream country music as of late, the song is a refreshing return for Chris from its melody to its smooth, Lane-like style. Though it doesn’t reflect his “married with children” lifestyle and would’ve probably worked better for “Single Chris,” this release sets itself apart from his prior catalog by projecting a real maturity that sounds off in the belting chorus. While Lane may struggle to reinvent himself with this new chapter, “Way to Go Girl” is certainly a step in the right direction from the lackluster “Find Another Bar.”
7.7
Hang of Hangin’ On – Randall King Written By Creed Miller
Randall King has quickly developed one of the best Texas Country voices in the genre, and he continues to put it on display with this new track. The production has a silky, smooth feel that doesn’t swallow up Randall’s expressive vocals. King is no stranger to love songs, but this one may be his most unique and reflective yet; it’s about how our narrator is getting used to staying in a relationship through the good times and the bad, and how rewarding he’s found it. The slow tempo allows the listener to really buy into his emotion, and the relaxed, swaying feel is something that few country artists can capture quite like him. Consistently excellent once again, Randall King proves once again why he’s one of the best in the business.
8.9
That’s What I Love About Sunday – Craig Morgan and Gary Levox Written By Creed Miller
Craig Morgan re-released his hit song “That’s What I Love About Sunday,” this time with the former Rascal Flatts front-man Gary Levox. While the original version was a massive success, and rightfully so, this time around, that serene zest for life just isn’t there. Morgan’s age starts to show in his vocals, and he just doesn’t sound as good as he did on the first version. Rather, this one feels stiff and forced, and there’s little chemistry between him and Levox. At his peak, Gary Levox’s vocals have been some of the best in country music, but he’s definitely not at his best either. The idea of returning to this song to pay it homage is cool, but at the same time, if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. Overall, this version is a flat reproduction of the original that sadly doesn’t do it the justice it deserves.
5.8
Came the Closest // Sam Hunt Written By Cam Greene
Sam Hunt has changed a lot in his career. From his early beginnings as a quasi-bro-country singer, Hunt drove many listeners crazy with his cheap snap tracks and weird talk-singing. However, as of late, Hunt has made good on his promise to dig a little deeper with thoughtful, grown-up songs backed by a little more twang than we’ve heard from him before. With his newest single “Came The Closest,” Hunt wears the shoes of a sensitive crooner perfectly. This story is about a man wishing he could settle down with the girl he almost made it with. Written by Nashville vets Josh Osborne, Shane McAnally, and Sam Hunt, it’s a fantastic track with a subdued energy that suits the singer perfectly. As he’s gotten older, Hunt’s music has gained a certain tragic charm; “Sad Sam Hunt” is a unique character compared to the reputation he’s earned in mainstream country music but is still undeniably likable.
8.0
Raise the Bar – Craig Morgan & Luke Combs Written By Cam Greene
If you’re a country singer looking to play it safe, you’re probably likely going to write about drinking at the bar, talking about how city folk don’t know how country boys do it, and how the blue-collar workers are the best people there are. But then again, safety isn’t always a bad thing. With “Raise The Bar,” Craig Morgan definitely colors within the lines, but it’s still very enjoyable; with a country twang and a carefree attitude, it’s a song not trying to take itself too seriously. Rather, “Raise the Bar” is a fine testament to the fact that just because a concept has been used a lot doesn’t mean that it’s inherently boring. Combs’s and Morgan’s vocals are completely complementary to each other as well, and you can tell they’re on the same page with how this song should feel. All-in-all, this song is an example of how to turn a common theme into an awesome, bar-drinking rock anthem.
7.3
The Table – Lauren Watkins Written By Christina Bosch
Lauren Watkins returns with her honeyed rasp and strong songwriting; “The Table” is a mellowed story song that takes you through an unexciting, hum-drum relationship wherein characters are seemingly settling for each other. Nicolle Galyon, Brad and Brett Warren, and Lauren wrote the track chronicling the misgivings each person has, leaving almost any possibility “on the table.” With run-of-the-mill courting, questionable decisions, and the ultimate breakup, the song brings a simple story to life and shows a mature relationship that’s a little more ordinary than the dramatic fares that usually dominate country music. Watkins’ delivery is sharp and as she continues to pair with veteran Nashville writers, her releases become more and more poignant, setting listeners and fans up with a full body of work on the way.
7.8
Where It’s Blue – Luke Grimes Written By Ryan Lippe
It’s rare that actors are able to make a smooth transition to singing, but Luke Grimes has been able to go past the spotlight and focus on substantive music. This apologetic love song allows for Grimes to showcase his rugged voice holding out longer notes. Written by Colton Venner, the track is nothing groundbreaking but he gives Grimes opportunities to hone in his craft with tall vowels and a softer bridge. Produced by Dave Cobb, Grimes is given the ability to jumpstart his career with a masterful touch behind the scenes. Cobbs and Grimes are able to develop a quieter sound for this track and for the EP not make things feel so monotonous between tracks.
8.3
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