One of the most promising new country acts of this year is Chris Stapleton. He's been a relatively unknown songwriter for the last few years, co-penning hits like "Crash and Burn" (Thomas Rhett), "Come Back Song" (Darius Rucker) and "Drink A Beer" (Luke Bryan.) His debut single, written solely by him, is the title track of his debut album Traveller. Throwing back to the folk/rock country artists of the 1970's, Stapleton steps away from the pop and electronic 'country' songs popular today. He has been the subject of much praise from other artists, including pop phenomenon Justin Timberlake.
It's rare to find a male country artist who can actually sing anymore. Pop-country artists like Brett Eldredge have serious pipes, but the most popular acts like Luke Bryan, Jason Aldean, and Tyler Hubbard of Florida Georgia Line don't particularly have fabulous voices. But they get away with it because of the booming rock influenced tracks, and the auto-tune in the more electronic tracks. This song, however, is not one that a poor vocalist could pull off. The production is not overpowering, and the focus is on the vocals. It is a perfect introduction to the depth of Stapleton's vocals and the power behind them.
There are moments when you find artists that just touch you. Their music is so absolutely groundbreaking and incredible, it reaches places deep in you. These days, it is hard to find a song by an artist that can do that. But Stapleton is one of those artists. This song is simple, but in ways connects all human beings on a level that all of us feel. This song is why country music is so incredible. He has something about his music that makes it timeless. Stapleton is going to be around for a while.
Overall rating: 5 crowns
There are moments when you find artists that just touch you. Their music is so absolutely groundbreaking and incredible, it reaches places deep in you. These days, it is hard to find a song by an artist that can do that. But Stapleton is one of those artists. This song is simple, but in ways connects all human beings on a level that all of us feel. This song is why country music is so incredible. He has something about his music that makes it timeless. Stapleton is going to be around for a while.
Overall rating: 5 crowns
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