Category Archives: Reviews

Alan Jackson Thirty Miles West Review

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Alan Jackson Does It Again With Thirty Miles West. Alan Jackson released Thirty Miles West this summer with “Long Way To Go” as the first single and “So You Don’t Have To Love Me Anymore” as his second. “You Go Your Way” is his current single and it has that classic Jackson feel. Nothing in your face or over-the-top, just the way we like! One of my favorite tracks from this album is “Her Life’s A Song.” I, along with every other girl out there, can relate to it so much. It really isn’t that hard to relate to actually, but you all know when you hear a song for the first time and it reminds you of yourself, you get extremely happy! This song will do that! “Dixie Highway” was recorded with Zac Brown, it has a quick count and is full of Georgia pride! This is not the boys first collaboration, Jackson was featured on ZBB’s album You Get What You Give with “As She’s Walking Away.” “Dixie Highway” is nominated for a 2012 CMA Award in the Musical Event of the Year category. “When I Saw You Leaving” is one of those songs I could listen to over and over. It just sounds so pretty! This record is full of beautiful fiddle and steel sounds, so obviously I’m in love! Thirty Miles West has a great balance and flow throughout, and I wouldn’t expect anything less from Jackson! If you haven’t already, I really encourage you to pick this album up to add to your collection! Thirty Miles West Track Listing: 1. Gonna Come Back As A Country Song 2. You Go Your Way 3. Everything But The Wings 4. Talk Is Cheap 5. So You Don’t Have To Love Me Anymore 6. Look Her In The Eye And Lie 7. Dixie Highway (feat. Zac Brown) 8. She Don’t Get High 9. Her Life’s A Song 10. Nothin’ Fancy 11. Long Way To Go 12. Life Keeps Bringing Me Down 13. When I Saw You Leaving (For Nisey)

Little Big Town Tornado Album Review

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Little Big Town Live Up To Album Title and More with New Release Tornado. Country music quartet Little Big Town (Karen Fairchild, Kimberly Schlapman, Phillip Sweet and Jimi Westbrook) released their fifth studio album, Tornado, today, and it is sure to rock your world. Whether you’re looking for something mellow or something more party-oriented, with Tornado, Little Big Town has offered up an engaging and multi-faceted record that will suck you right in. This is the type of album that warrants more than a single listen, and with each listen you’ll uncover another layer. One of the most stand-out features of Tornado is that it is not one dimensional. It’s clear that LBT has more than just a single musical influence with echoes of gospel, blues, folk and rock intertwining with the pop country sound that is consistently present throughout the album. You hear tracks like “Front Porch Thing” that have a down home, southern feel from the a cappella opening to the almost Memphis style blues quality or “Can’t Go Back” with its gospel choir-esque vocals mixed in with songs like “Self-Made” that has a rock/alternative vibe, and you know that LBT is truly invested in the music and that this record comes from a very organic place. In the eleven songs featured on Tornado, there isn’t a generic note to be found, and each song is as engaging as the next. Whether the focus is on the vocals or the instrumentals or the lyrics, each of the four band members shines, and you get the impression that they put their absolute all into this project. There is a great deal of depth in songs like “Sober” (about living life to the fullest), “Your Side of the Bed” (about love gone south), and title track “Tornado” (about a woman done wrong) that feels very personal, and very relatable. Listening to these tracks feels a little like having a conversation with a friend over a drink as they share their troubles with you, and its elements like these (relatability, realness, etc.) that I think country music fans will appreciate the most. Now, all this sounds very serious, but Tornado is also a whole lot of fun! There is their number one single, “Pontoon” that country music fans are still going crazy over, along with other party playlist worthy tunes like “Pavement Ends” (complete with some old school banjo pickin’ and hand clappin’!) and “On Fire Tonight” that you’d have to be dead to not to want to get up and dance to! These mix in well with the other more serious tracks to complete the well-rounded track list! Tornado is the type of project that your casual music fan will love, but also has a lot to offer more hard core music fans, whether you prefer country, folk, blues, pop country or something in between. So, do yourself a favor, and check it out now! Next on my list? Finding my way to a live Little Big Town show! I Continue reading Little Big Town Tornado Album Review→

Jenna Jentry Backstage At Scotty McCreery Performance

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Jenna Jentry Is Your Backstage Guide to Recent Scotty McCreery Performance! Country music newcomer, Jenna Jentry, opened for Scotty McCreery this past weekend, and despite her busy schedule she took a little time to give fans a behind the scenes look at the tour bus, getting ready for the show, and Scotty McCreery’s meet and greet with fans! We think Jenna makes the perfect Country Music News Blog Correspondent! Check out the video below, get behind the scenes and see if you agree! Get Backstage with Jenna Jentry! [youtube:www.youtube.com/watch?v=dRg4GSCz_dQ] Get to know Jenna Jentry better, and hear her current single!

Randy Rogers Band At George’s Majestic Lounge

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The Randy Rogers Band Did NOT Disappoint On Dickson! Last night, August 30th, the Randy Rogers Band gave Fayetteville, AR one heck of a show! They played at the legendary George’s Majestic Lounge to a packed house. The show added the cherry to the already exciting week for the college town, with the first Razorback game of the season Saturday and a 3 day weekend! RRB’s latest single, “One More Sad Song,” hit iTunes earlier this week and lucky for this crowd, they got to hear it live! The band also played “Flash Flood” from their upcoming album and “Goodbye Lonely,” which will be track #1 on the new album set to release in early 2013. The new stuff was great, but one of the best things to see at any show is true fans, singing along word-for-word, with every song! “Too Late for Goodbye,” “Wicked Ways,” “Steal You Away,” “Lost and Found,” “Down and Out,” “Interstate” and “Kiss Me In The Dark” had this bunch of concert-goers doing exactly that! I am pretty partial to “Buy Myself A Chance,” so that is always the highlight of RRB’s show for me! But, one thing that I did notice after stepping back and just watching the give and take of the band with the audience (that I’ve never picked up on before) is how much these guys can command a crowd’s attention. There wasn’t much chatter between groups, no girls crying…just a bunch of smiling, dancing, singing, straight-ahead-looking fans! The show ended with “This Time Around,” and left everyone wanting more! RRB has a busy weekend ahead with shows in Thackerville, OK tonight, Corpus Christi, TX Saturday and New Braunfels, TX Sunday! If you are anywhere near any of those locations, do yourself a favor and catch their show! Check out photos from the show!

Josh Abbott Band At George’s Majestic Lounge

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The Josh Abbott Band Sets The Bar High For This Fall Semester In Fayetteville! The Josh Abbott Band made their way to Fayetteville, AR this Wednesday to perform at George’s Majestic Lounge. This was the first week back to classes for the Razorbacks and judging by the sold out crowd, they were ready to forget the books! JAB performed songs from their current album, Small Town Family Dream (read the review here), as well as some of their classics. As I said before, it was a sold out show! A great portion of the crowd missed the opening band because of the amount of people trying to get in the doors at once. George’s has one of the best, if not very best crews working from them. But with that many fans, the doormen can only get you in so fast. Luckily for the attendees, as soon as you were in, you were golden! The newly remodeled venue had a great vibe in the air and as soon as the band took the stage all focus was straight ahead! The crowd was singing along the whole night (“Taste,” “Touch,” “Oh Tonight” and more) and some boot scooters managed to get a little two-steppin’ in (with what little space was available, SOLD OUT SHOW!). If you are familiar with this band’s live show, then you know what I mean when I say it was exactly what I expected. This in no way is a bad thing…the energy was explosive and the music was right on point! As usual, the girls went crazy for Preston Wait‘s fiddle skills and melted over Josh‘s voice. All in all, the night was a success! I truly believe the band likes playing George’s and I know the Arkansas fans love having them!

Blackberry Smoke The Whippoorwill Review

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Blackberry Smoke’s New Album The Whippoorwill Is A Rocking Good Time. If there is one thing you can expect from a Southern Ground Artist’s album, you can expect for it be good…real good. With The Whippoorwill (their first release on the label), Blackberry Smoke is definitely living up to that expectation. This quintet has an intoxicating southern rock/outlaw country vibe that reminds me of hot summers growing up in Memphis, TN, and there are two things that stand out on this particular album. First, they are fantastic writers and story tellers, and second, they are very talented musicians. With lines like “I may not change the world, but I’m gonna leave a scar“, “So kiss me one more time and cross every T and dot every I of that pretty little lie“, and “He was named after the hurricane/Blew through in ’79 and he did just about the same” pouring out of each track, it is impossible to deny that these guys have a way with words. More than that though, each track on this album tells its own story, and each is as engaging as the next. You’re listening not only to the music, but also to hear how the story turns out. From “One Horse Town” to “Sleeping Dogs“, Blackberry Smoke really does have their finger on the pulse of dixie living, and listening to their songs is almost like pulling back a curtain and watching the characters’ lives unfold in the lyrics. I think what I appreciate most about these songs and the stories they tell, though, is that they are raw and realistic. There are no rose covered glasses here, just honesty. Yet, and maybe this is because I grew up in the South and this kind of music reaches right in and touches my soul, but even in the honesty and unwillingness to sugarcoat the details, there is still an edge of nostalgia, a warmth that only those with an affinity for southern culture with both its good and bad qualities, can appreciate. In addition to the quality of the writing, these fellows also have some serious chops as far as their music is concerned. From the slower rhythm in the albums title track to the quick pace of the opening track “Six Ways to Sunday“, there is a subtlety and depth to the music on this record, and I have a feeling that the digital prints aren’t doing Blackberry Smoke the justice they deserve. I can hear the influences of the bands I grew up on, like Led Zeplin, as they are mixing bluesy riffs, country sounds, and rock into one original and foot stomping package. Based on what I’m hearing on Whippoorwill, I would really love the hear these guys live because I’m willing to wager they would put on one hell of a show! The Whippoorwill is the first run-in that I’ve had with Blackberry Smoke, and I am very glad that these guys just smashed into my radar. I suggest you Continue reading Blackberry Smoke The Whippoorwill Review→

Dustin Lynch Debut Album Review

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Dustin Lynch Showcases His Talent with Debut Album Release! Back in June, we were supposed to catch Dustin Lynch‘s live performance at BamaJam 2012, but a big ole storm came through and messed up that plan! At the time, I was pretty bummed. Now, after giving his debut album a good listen, I am especially disappointed on missing out because I really want to know if he is as good live as is he on this record. What we’ve got on this album is solid talent combined with a 90’s country sound and modern, well-written lyrics, and Lynch really knows how to rock it. While it’s rare to see an artist create a concept album, we do often get records that are centered around a general theme, and if I had to pick a central idea for these twelve tacks (plus one bonus track), I would go with “pining“. A majority of the songs from “She Cranks My Tractor” to “Wild In Your Smile” to “Rock You Sweet” to “Hurricane” are about a guy that is longing after some pretty young thing in one way or another, and Dustin delivers each line with a sincerity that suggests he’s singing from experience. There’s just something about what he’s singin’ and how he’s singin’ that’s…well…kinda sweet. What I really like is that even though a lot of the tracks deal with the same kind of idea, they each tell a different story. Each is engaging, catchy and fun…not an easy feat to achieve, especially for your first release. There are non-love related songs as well, and these are just as good! “Unwind It” and “Name On It” offer up great options for something to listen to when hanging out on Friday night. Then there’s the touching bonus track, “Your Plan“, that was written by Dustin himself, and clearly comes straight from the heart. Whatever the song though, all together this really is a quality album, and a great start for Lynch! So far, there has been quite a bit of buzz about Lynch’s single “Cowboys and Angels“…especially from the female portion of the country music fan base, and I can definitely see why the ladies are loving all over this country music newbie. Between his rugged good looks, his talented vocal chords and all the sweet things he has to say on this album, I have a feeling that he’s going to be strummin’ on heart strings all over the U.S. as his popularity increases. If you haven’t yet, check out the video for “Cowboys and Angels” below, and don’t forget to grab a copy of Lynch’s new album! Dustin Lynch, “Cowboys and Angels“. [youtube:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1F1GrYeIMco] Dustin Lynch Complete Track Listing. 1. She Cranks My Tractor 2. Waiting 3. Cowboys and Angels 4. Wild In Your Smile 5. Last Lap 6. Sittin’ Pretty 7. Yeah Yeah Yeah 8. Rock You Sweet 9. Unwind It 10. Hurricane 11. Dancing In The Headlights 12. Name On It Bonus Track: Your Plan

JT Hodges Debut Album Review

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JT Hodges Offers Up Original and Inviting Sound with Debut Album. When I first heard JT Hodges‘ debut single, “Hunt You Down“, I knew there was something special about this guy, and I had high hopes for the debut album was that slated to release this year. After getting my hands on a copy and giving all ten tracks a solid listen, I am pleased to report that Hodges didn’t let me down. What he is offering country music fans is a well-written and relatable album that has an original sound. One thing that immediately stands out to me is the level of quality and subtle diversity in the instrumentals. Hodges has music in his blood, with both his parents being in the music industry and growing up playing in his father’s recording studio. This influence is more than clear through all of the tracks, and it accounts for the variety we hear in the music from the pop-country vibe in “Hunt You Down” to the rock back beat of “Rather Be Wrong Than Lonely” to the old school bluesy country that is all over “Green Eyes Red Sunglasses” to the twang we hear in “When I Stop Crying“. I had the chance to chat with Hodges earlier this year, and he promised there would be something for everyone and all kinds of tastes on this album. That is certainly the case, but instead of sounding disconnected in an effort to draw a larger audience (as someone might assume), the tracks meld together well and really do form one complete album that listened to as a whole has a distinct sound that is original and inviting. Besides the quality of the music, the quality of the lyrics also stands out on this album. Hodges co-wrote all but one song on the record, and he proves that he knows how to tell a story. Each of the songs seems to be taken from daily living and experiences which makes each of the songs relatable to the country music listener. Whether he’s singing about the secrets of small town life in “Sleepy Little Town” or living in the moment in “Leaving Me Later“, JT paints pictures that anyone could easily identify with, and I think that this quality is extremely important, especially with country fans. One last great thing about this album is that its the kind of record you could listen to anytime whether you’re riding in the car with friends with the windows down on a lazy afternoon or the on the way to a concert, or maybe just while you’re hanging around the house or at work on a Monday, this is definitely one of those albums you just put on repeat and go! JT Hodges releases tomorrow (Tuesday, August 21st), so you don’t have to take my word for it! You can grab your own copy, and be sure to tell us what you think! You could WIN a signed copy of the new album from CMNB! Go Continue reading JT Hodges Debut Album Review→

Miranda Lambert LIVE At The Arkansas Music Pavilion

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Miranda Lambert Put On a Hell of a Show as Headliner of 1st Annual Taste of Country Festival in Fayetteville, AR! Miranda Lambert is currently considered by many to be the first lady of country music, and it’s really not hard to see why. In the past few months alone, she earned the CMA Award for Female Artist of the Year (again) as well as the ACM Award for Female Vocalist, she released her another amazing album, For The Record, she kick started her female trio The Pistol Annies with Angaleena Presley and Ashley Monroe with great success, and well, those are just the highlights! Lambert really is an amazing artist, but more than that, I learned Friday night (August 17th) at the Arkansas Music Pavilion in Fayetteville, AR, she is a truly fantastic live performer. I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again, it’s one thing to be able to sing on an album (with your producer, vocal coaches and other helpful folks there to lend a hand…), and it’s another thing all together to be able to perform those same songs live. On top of achieving that distinction, Miranda Lambert can do more than sing. She is a natural live performer. Whether she’s singing the bitter sweet “The House That Built Me” the raw and powerful hit, “Kerosene” the intense hit “Gunpowder and Lead” or her moving “Over You“, Lambert packs in every bit of energy she’s got into every single note. Wearing high heeled black boots, a sparkling black mini skirt and a Chris Knight t-shirt, Lambert was “bad-ass” personified, and she was dancing and jumping all over that stage with her pink guitar, pink microphone and Shotgun shaped microphone stand (you can see pics of all this below!). The production design of the concert was minimal with a few videos on the big screen at the back of the stage, and the lighting kept to a basic but effective level. It hardly mattered though because it was impossible to take your eyes off of Lambert and her performance. The concert got even better when Miranda was joined on stage by the other two thirds of the Pistol Annies, Angaleena and Ashley! The trio performed a handful of songs including fan favorite “Takin’ Pills“. It was clear that these three women have a special friendship, and that they have a heck of a time performing together…even if they forget a couple of their lyrics…which they did but they played it off really well! Even before this performance, Miranda Lambert was already my favorite female country artist, but now, I have a whole new appreciation for her! I suggest you check out her tour schedule, and try to see her live ASAP (and the Pistol Annies too if you can manage it!). Check Out Our Exclusive Miranda Lambert Photos! For more photos of your favorite country stars…head on over to our Facebook! For interviews, subscribe to our YouTube Channel!

Colt Ford Declaration Of Independence Album Review

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Colt Ford’s Latest Collection Of Country Songs With A Twist! Colt Ford has been very excited to release his latest album, Declaration of Independence, for some time. He personally told me how proud of this project he is and now it is out for all of his fans to enjoy! (Check out Colt’s interview with CMNB now!) This album has 15 tracks and some of the greatest voices in country music lent their talents and time to their good friend Colt. Jason Aldean, Jake Owen, Kix Brooks and Darius Rucker, along with Laura Bell Bundy (the only female on the album) are just a small portion. “Back,” Colt’s current single with Owen, is already hitting home with country fans all over. The true story and music video (watch it now!), featuring Colt’s real family, is so visually telling and honest, that you have to thank the successful song-writer for inviting us into his life. “Answer To No One” is the first track and sets the tone for the album. Colt puts it out there for everyone to see, he is what he is and it’s not changing anytime soon! “All In” is a good one to play before a good night with friends! Whether you’re going out or having a party at the house, this song is sure to get you pumped up for a rowdy time! “Way Too Early” is another of my favorites on this album. The lyrics are very relatable and it has a pretty fiddle part! Colt goes solo in “50/50” and defends his country roots and clears up any stereotypes the “city boys” might have about folks like him. Colt might have a lot of people saying he isn’t “country” because the style in which he offers his music to the world. Well…I’m here to tell you just because he isn’t belting a ballad like John Michael Montgomery, who coincidentally has a song with Colt (“Ride Through the Country“), doesn’t mean he isn’t “country.” Listen to the man’s lyrics and you will be singing a different tune! “This is for everybody out there, Circling the town square, Proud to be stuck out in the middle of nowhere. USA, Chevrolet, Dodge and Ford. Raising a little hell and praising the Lord” -Drivin’ Around Song If y’all like what I had to say and are interested in your very own copy of Declaration of Independence, then go pick one up at the store or iTunes OR follow this link RIGHT HERE for you chance to win one! Declaration of Independence Track Listing : 1. Answer To No One – F/ JJ Lawhorn 2. Drivin’ Around Song – F/ Jason Aldean 3. All In – F/ Kix Brooks 4. Ain’t Out Of The Woods – F/ Montgomery Gentry 5. Lucky – F/ Jonathan Singleton 6. Back – With Jake Owen 7. Dancin’ While Intoxicated (DWI) – F/Locash Cowboys and Redneck Social Club 8. It’s All – F/ Jeffrey Steele 9. Hugh Damn Right – F/ Laura Bell Bundy Continue reading Colt Ford Declaration Of Independence Album Review→