Midland: ‘Burn Out’ Single Review

Award-winning trio Midland recently released their third single, titled ‘Burn Out,’ off of their debut album, ‘On The Rocks.’ Known for their old school western attire and unique style, this new single directly reflects their persona. Co-written by the boys of Midland, Shane McAnally, and Josh Osborne, ‘Burn Out’ has a traditional country feel to it. The slow rolling melody and soft twang provide an aesthetically pleasing listening experience. The group’s exceptional harmonies are on full display during the chorus. Midland’s classic, throwback sound is quite refreshing amidst the plethora of pop-infused country songs that dominate the genre and today’s radio airwaves.

Many of Midland’s songs can be described as having poetic lyrics, including ‘Burn Out.’ “We write with a very visual storytelling approach. We paint that big picture and go to that place,” explains lead singer Mark Wystrach. ‘Burn Out’ tells the story of someone who has gone through a recent break up. They’re sitting in a bar attempting to cope with their sorrows. In keeping with the theme of the song the lyrics compare a relationship to a flame. If you put your hands on the flame, you’ve got no right to complain, ‘cause you know it’s gonna leave a mark, when the glow comes to an end. When beginning a relationship there is always the possibility of the worst-case scenario occurring and it not working out. As Midland suggests, love fizzling out like the glow of a flame is going to be heartbreaking no matter what. A fun fact is that ‘Burn Out’ is the prelude to Midland’s #1 hit ‘Drinkin’ Problem.’ Wystrach says of ‘Burn Out,’ “It almost explains how the archetype in ‘Drinkin’ Problem’ got to that place. It sets that song up, what drives a guy to get to that place.” With their creative songwriting and vintage sound it’s easy to see why Midland won the 2018 ACM Award for Best New Vocal Group of the Year. We can’t wait to see where their career goes from here.

You can catch Midland opening for Thomas Rhett on the Life Changes Tour later this year. They will be at the Cross Insurance Center in Bangor, ME on September 13th; Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, CT on September 14th and 15th; the Dunkin’ Donuts Center in Providence, RI on September 20th; and the SNHU Arena in Manchester, NH on September 22nd.

Favorite Lyrics: Just watchin’ rivers run, down the side of my bottle, almost like it’s cryin’ my tears.

 You can buy ‘Burn Out’ here