Parking Lot Party-Lee Brice (Curb)

In little bitty towns (like the one I happen to be in as I write this), this is what they do. So, Lee’s got something real-life to sing about here. But then, there ain’t a lot of people in such places, so not much built-in audience prospect from that angle. And, more importantly, it would … Read more

Aw Naw-Chris Young (RCA)

If that title don’t stick in the head! It’s uptempo. It’s fun and it sounds like a summertime, good time smash to me.

Blowin’ Smoke –Kacey Musgraves (Mercury)

This is what a monster hit sounds like. Set it up with a killer beat and put in some deft and slyly original lyrics. Be sure to have a hook that anyone can be singing along with before it’s over; one the MAKES you begin singing along, actually. Oh, and have it so’s a huge … Read more

Hush Hush-Pistol Annies (RCA)

Because Miranda is one of the trio, if past performance holds, we can expect the corporate PD minds to immediately ignore it based on the long-entrenched fallacy that two songs by an artist must not be on the Current list at the same time. Well, let’s hope not because this boogie is super-cool. Plugged in … Read more

Beat This Summer-Brad Paisley (Arista)

It is a very good, very entertaining record. And I guess we’re on the start of a new trend here, using a choir for the “ohhhh,ohhhh,ohhh” accents in the arrangement. McGraw made excellent use of it in his new album. I expect a strong performance on the airplay charts and digital sales and all that. … Read more

Highway Don’t Care-Tim McGraw (Big Machine)

It’s the number one selling Country single already. Launched with a beautiful groove, Tim opens up, playing with the meter of the lyric and the words and phrases are enchanting, pulling the story along. Then, the girl’s voice bursts into the middle of the room with what will be the Hook Of Spring 2013. I … Read more

Two Lanes Of Freedom-Tim McGraw (Big Machine)

You know what’s incredible? He’s made lots and lots of music for twenty plus years and has plenty’nuff money. Got a beautiful, talented wife, gorgeous children, loyal friends. He’s an actor in the movies and tv whenever he may wanna. From a 45 year old man that comfortable, I’d not expect an album this dramatic. … Read more

Back In Your Arms Again-Mavericks (Valory)

Raul Malo’s voice is a thing of soaring beauty. The new album came out last year and I still cue up my favorite tracks, this one being the topper. It’s got a bit of that Tex-Mix vibe, including some mariachi trumpets making for a spicy feel that’s unlike anything else in the current rotation now, … Read more

Downtown-Lady Antebellum (Capitol)

Gotta say I wasn’t much pleased on the first listen. Yes, it is as hooky as all get out, but I was thinkin’ Jeeze, don’t get all poppie-fied on us now! Flirting with Mr. Pop is ok, I guess, but don’t you go an marry that guy! On repeat listens, I’ve come around. Sure it’s … Read more