Tag Archives: New England Country Music

Have You Tried On Bell Bottom Country?

Lainey Wilson is an up-and-coming singer-songwriter in Nashville who certainly is not afraid to make a fashion statement. She is carving out her own niche in the country music community, mostly while wearing her signature bell bottom pants, but don’t be fooled; Lainey’s appeal is much deeper than her image. Her songwriting abilities are striking along with her genuine personality, and appealing vocal style. We recently had the chance to chat with Lainey and she explained in her authentic Louisiana drawl, “I never had a plan B. I felt like if I do, this won’t work.” With a recently signed publishing deal with Sony/ATV, a newly released EP, and a video premiere on CMT it seems that her plan A is working.

Lainey Wilson has had quite the journey to where she is now from when her passion for music began forming. At 9 years old she started writing songs and at 11 she began adding in guitar. She casually brought up that her high school job was performing as a Hannah Montana impersonator, only acknowledging the job’s noteworthiness after being asked. She started with children’s birthday parties, got her own portable sound system and the gig quickly picked up steam. Every weekend for four years she was performing as Hannah Montana. Crowds everywhere from fairs and festivals to birthday parties and nursing homes enjoyed the act. Looking back, Lainey told us, “It taught me how to adjust to my audience and to always be on your toes.”

The influence of Lainey’s childhood became clear as it was repeatedly brought up throughout the interview. Reflecting on the origins of her signature look, she giggled before mentioning that her favorite pair of pants when she was five years old was a pair of bell bottoms. With some regret she mentioned, “I don’t know where those pants are now.” Bell bottoms became the answer for her when trying to standout, “I thought, what I could do that is different” and they accomplish her goal of wanting “to get on stage and everybody to feel love and free-spirited.” That free-spiritedness is encompassed in her song ‘Dreamcatcher,’ which was also inspired by the experiences of 5-year-old Lainey. At a sleepover Lainey’s friend had a dream catcher hanging over her bed and Lainey told us her friend’s mom explained ‘It takes all your bad nightmares away.’ Pondering on this memory, of course adult Lainey wrote a song. Wishing she could take others pain away regardless of the source, Lainey told us this was the most personal song for her on this EP.

Full of stories and a life of experiences that only pointed her compass toward Nashville, She moved five and a half years ago. Being from the small town of Baskin Louisiana, population 300, she experienced some culture shock becoming one of Music City’s 1.9 million residents and credits her “extremely supportive family” for helping her to “find a way to get here and stay here.” Determined to show everyone she really wanted it, she moved into a bumper-pull Flagstaff camper. Through a connection her dad had, she was able to park it in the parking lot of a Nashville recording studio. Lainey recalled “good times and hard dark times” in the trailer, including a time that she flooded it. Although Lainey remembers tons of fun writing sessions in the camper, she explained “I had an extremely hard time having the opportunity to write down on Music Row. They want you to pay your dues.”

Her years in the studio parking lot behind her, Lainey is looking to the future and cannot wait to release new music. With a sense of introspection Lainey told us, “My Momma has always told me ‘Lainey just be yourself.’ Where I’m at right now, I’m doing more than I ever have and I’m more myself than I’ve ever been.” She couldn’t begin to express how thankful she was for the opportunities her new publishing deal is opening for her and shocked us when she claimed “I always want to be the worst writer in the room.” She quickly backed up the quote explaining that she hopes for the opportunity to learn and grow from other talented songwriters. Judging by the lyrics that she has already produced, that may be a tough goal to consistently accomplish. Her entire 6 track self-titled EP is packed with creative and thought provoking lyrics.

When asked how she would describe her music to someone who isn’t familiar with her work, she responded, “country, honest, and fun.” This is exactly what you get from Lainey’s new self-titled EP along with stellar storytelling and thoughtful lyrical design. Citing Lee Ann Womack as one of her main influences, she told us, “I listened to her everyday growing up, if you listen so much it becomes a part of your own music.” All six songs on the EP were co-written by Lainey and showcase a variety of topics. She explained “I’ve written over 1,000 songs now and I feel that these are 6 of my best.” She easily admitted “It’s second nature to me; it’s a form of therapy,” when discussing her writing process.

She has an ear for budding talent too. She told us how she scored an early writing session with Luke Combs; “Funny, Luke hadn’t even moved to Nashville. I was at a performance of his and I had a gut feeling. I walked up to him and said, ‘You don’t know me, but I want to write with you.” Among her other recent successes, CMT premiered her video for ‘Workin’ Overtime.’ With excitement in her voice, she explained that she was “So excited. I woke up at 5 am to stare and watch it.” She shared stories of sitting and watching CMT music videos all day with her sister as a kid. When her own video came on it was truly a full circle moment.

You can get to know and connect with Lainey Wilson through her Website, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook and check out her new EP.

Michael Ray: ‘Amos’ Album Review

Michael Ray’s sophomore album, ‘Amos,’ was impatiently awaited by many fans and with songs already climbing the country airplay charts, we can only expect that Michael Ray’s early success will continue. ‘Amos‘ was named after Ray’s late grandfather, who passed just two months before his Grand Ole Opry debut. It was important for Michael to pay tribute to one of his earliest supporters because his grandfather helped to inspire his passion for country music. Michael Ray presents a dynamic album with songs ranging from progressive to semi-traditional country. They all feature his captivating voice and master delivery. Many talented songwriters can be credited including Matthew Ramsey, Brad Tursi, and Trevor Rosen of Old Dominion; Jaren Johnston of The Cadillac Three; and hitmakers Josh Osborne, Shane McAnally, Rhett Akins, and Ben Hayslip. Containing a medley of love songs, varying in complexity, there is something everyone can relate to on this album.

1.) ‘Fan Girl’- Written by Matt Jenkins, Brad Tursi, and Josh Osborne.
Impression: ‘Fan Girl’ opens the album with an upbeat nod to fans. Delivering with high energy, it compares the feeling of attending a concert to the feeling you experience looking at someone you love. The unique comparison melds the familiar sensations perfectly. Heavy drums have your head nodding along in no time and its concert visuals immediately connect with any live show loving fan.
Favorite Lyrics: You give me that front-row feeling, screaming with my hands up, Walk in the room and everybody stands up.

2.) ‘One That Got Away’ – Written by Josh Osborne, Matthew Ramsey, Trevor Rosen, and Jesse Frasure.
Impression: Slated to be Ray’s next single released to radio, ‘One That Got Away’ gives us a unique take on the inevitable breakup that comes with a relationship that seems too good to be true. Although it is conveyed that Ray will be a bit upset when things don’t work out, the song emanates a carefree vibe created by the lyrics, That’s alright, That’s okay She’s gonna be one hell of a one that got away, That’s alright, might hurt but hey. Focusing on the good times rather than the pain of the future, ‘One That Got Away’ creates a sense of fun and positivity that exquisitely matches the instrumental and background vocals.
Favorite Lyrics: I ain’t gonna sit here and overthink it, I got a tiger by the tail, I’ll just smile when she sinks her teeth in, She’ll leave a scar and a story to tell.

3.) ‘Summer Water’ – Written by Heather Morgan and Lee Thomas Miller.
Impression: With the third song, Michael Ray slows things down and brings us the most traditional country song on this record. ‘Summer Water’ gives us a sentimental sense of home, describing the integral role time spent on the water can have on everyone in a waterside community. Comparing time spent on the summer water to religious experiences accentuates the impact that the summer water had over a lifetime.
Favorite Lyrics: It’s where you spend your first night with your first love before the mercury starts fallin’; It’s where you spend the last with your first love, before somebody goes to college.

4.) ‘Get To You’ – Written by Abe Stoklasa and Pavel Dovgalyuk.
Impression: This song originally released as a single is currently sitting at number 15 on the Billboard Country Airplay Chart. The mid-tempo tune showcases Michael Ray’s vocal range with unique high notes that we do not see elsewhere in the album. It tells a story that is relatable from two standpoints, having been scarred by past love so badly you put a wall up to fully falling in love again and being the one trying to break down those walls and love a person who has been hurt. Ray sings from a very understanding viewpoint, hoping that he will be able to break those walls.
Favorite Lyrics: One day you’re gonna love again, Mess up and let somebody in, To every part of your whole world.

5.) ‘Forget About It’ – Written by Luke Laird and Jaren Johnston.
Impression: Michael Ray turns his confidence up a notch as he pushes country music’s boundary in ‘Forget About It.’ Ray teases, Didn’t he hold the door? Didn’t he bring ya flowers?, before making it clear that he will gladly help this girl mend her broken heart with some drinks and the promise of a good time. Michael Ray is sure that he can be the catalyst in helping her to turn things around.
Favorite Lyrics: You need a little bit of “Hey, baby come of here,” Let me buy you a beer, get to workin’ on movin’ on, When it comes to him, forget about it

6.) ‘Her World Or Mine’ – Written by Brett Beavers, Jamie Paulin, and Travis Denning.
Impression: Possibly the most compelling song in this collection, ‘Her World Or Mind’ evokes the visceral feelings that can only come from heartbreak. The ballad juxtaposes the lives of a couple after splitting up, referencing the many milestones that cause pain in the aftermath. It is clear that he is struggling with every reminder of the past, while she moves on with her life. Michael Ray’s brutal honesty and vulnerability make this emotional ballad remarkable.
Favorite Lyrics: One of us moved on, one of us got stuck, One of us is drinkin’ just for fun, one of us drinkin’ to get drunk

7.) ‘You’re On’ – Written by Chase McGill, Jessi Alexander, and Matt Jenkins.
Impression: ‘You’re On’ gives us a playful song set to electric guitar and striking drumbeats. The phrase ‘You’re On’ used repeatedly throughout the song ties it together. Its usage morphs from a challenging phrase to a more conventional You’re on my mind. Ray simply wants to spend more time with this girl and cannot stop thinking about her because every song on country radio reminds him of her and every t-shirt he wears smells like her.
Favorite Lyrics: You light me up when you run your fingers through my hair, Like a night owl’s eyes in the low beam glare.

8.) ‘I’m Gonna Miss You’ – Written by Corey Crowder and Matt McGinn.
Impression: Song eight gives us another take on struggling with heartbreak. Ray admits that he will be taking a night to wallow in his pain and miss her rather than his usual routine of failing to avoid the memories that plague him. Opposite of the message we typically hear from men, Ray is open about the fact that he needs to let that goodbye hurt in order to heal. ‘I’m Gonna Miss You’ gives us another view of the emotional vulnerability Ray demonstrates in ‘Amos.‘
Favorite Lyrics: I’m gonna think about that first kiss in the rain, it was June, Remember how we said forever? I’m gonna think about that too.

9.) ‘Dancing Forever’ – Written by Ross Copperman, Shane McAnally, Matt Ramsey, and Trevor Rosen.
Impression: ‘Dancing Forever’ slows things down for a thought provoking song who’s meaning can be shaped to many different perspectives. One of the songs Ray chose to perform it in a Las Vegas hospital after the Route 91 Harvest Festival, its lyrics took on a new meaning. It’s moving chorus, Just catch that breeze like a feather, Turn your tears into treasures, When you’re here, when you’re gone, I’ll be here, lookin’ on, So keep on dancin’ forever, can be relevant to any type of loss.
Favorite Lyrics: I guess I’m waitin’ on your next move, All this time I thought I was leadin’ you, Now look at you.

10.) ‘Girl From Spring Break’ – Written by Ben Hayslip, Emily Weisband, and Rhett Akins.
Impression: Michael Ray gives us some country music style story telling in the reminiscent ‘Girl From Spring Break.’ The specificity of the small details included make you feel like you were there too. Ray recalls the minute features of his spring break escapade including the room number, their drink of choice, and the car she drove. He wonders about what the girl could be up to now in a way that we so often do with those we fall out of touch with.
Favorite Lyrics: We said we’d call, we said we’d write, But you know how it goes when time goes by.

11.) ‘Drink One For Me’ – Written by Josh Thompson, Jimmy Robbins, and Jon Nite.
Impression: The love song theme isn’t as prominent in ‘Drink One For Me.’ The last song on this album strikes a more serious chord leading us to think of those who cannot be with us, doing the things they love because they are serving our country. The soldier asks the listener to think of them while doing some of their favorite activities. Without a careful listen to the first verse, the song could apply to anyone who is away from home trying to accomplish something, but the small details are integral to this closing song’s intended meaning.
Favorite Lyrics: Drink one for me, and remember why, I’m doin’ what I’m doin’ when you raise ’em high.

Michael Ray will be opening for Old Dominion at the Champlain Valley Fair in Essex Junction Vermont on August 24th. You can get tickets for his only currently scheduled New England show here. You can purchase ‘Amos’ on iTunes, and keep up with all things Michael Ray on his Website, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

Dan + Shay: ‘Speechless’ Single Review

Have you ever had concert regret? Dan + Shay were recently at the Xfinity Center in Mansfield and at the Bank of NH Pavilion in Gilford and after seeing their posts about sharing new music, I know I messed up. But I was glad I had the handful of songs that had been released to hang onto until their new album came out last week. One of my personal favorites being ‘Speechless.’

Although the music video of ‘Tequila’ won them Duo Video of the Year, ‘Speechless’ is another attention grabber. Both Dan + Shay got married last year and ‘Speechless’ is a compilation of their actual wedding footage and the moment they first saw their beautiful brides during the first look or walking down the aisle. If you haven’t seen it yet, you will want to check it out and maybe grab a tissue or two.

Co-written with Jordan Reynolds and Laura Veltz, this slow jams starts with the piano and the snap of your fingers. The sound of this track is what grabs you and keeps you listening. The lyrics take you through Day + Shay’s perspective, you say you’ll be down in five, the smell of your perfume is floating down the stairs.. ever since the day that we meet you take the breath out of my lungs. Regardless if it’s the starting stages of dating or their wedding day, they are still left speechless admitting after all this time I’m just as nervous every time you walk into the room.

‘Tequila’ and ‘Speechless’ are just two of the four new songs they’ve released to date. Full track list can be found on their Instagram, Kelly Clarkson is featured. They have been busy releasing songs teasing us all as we wait for the June 22nd release of their new self titled album. Don’t want to wait, you can preorder now !

Favorite Lyrics: It’s always on a night like tonight I think that you can read my mind ‘Cause when you look at me with those eyes

Jackie Lee: ‘Long Year’ Single Review

I had an interview with Jackie Lee back in January 2017. He’s one of the nicest guys I’ve had the chance to speak with. We talked about his current single at the time, upcoming shows, songwriting, and he even told an incredible story about his buddy in the NFL. The conversation was light, friendly and inspiring – I never could have imagined what the singer was going through at the time.

It was revealed recently that at just 26 years old, Lee has battled cancer twice. Just months after losing his mom to the same disease, the unimaginable happened when Lee was diagnosed himself. Around the one year anniversary of his mom’s passing, Jackie got together with Barry Dean and Sean McConnell to write the song, ‘Long Year,’ which he promptly tucked away. The write was a four or five hour therapy session and the result he never intended to release.

A couple months later at a routine checkup, Lee found out his cancer had returned and he would need to undergo chemotherapy. Jackie had the idea to record his treatment, not knowing exactly how the videos would be used. From the beginning, through losing his hair, to ringing a bell at his final session – Jackie sent all the footage to his friend Dustin Haney, who put it together to make the ‘Long Year’ music video.

He battled with the decision to post the video publicly, but ultimately decided to with a little motivation from his family and team. “I am doing so in hopes that it may encourage even just one person to keep going,” he said on Twitter. The story is raw and it’s real. Even though once Jackie never imagined it connecting with people, most of us have endured loss and our own long years to some extent. It shows how alone one can feel in that moment, and how much we can overcome. The song, he says, isn’t really about his mom, but more to her. It’s about his grief and hardships throughout the year, when the one person Lee needed in the toughest time was gone. As Jackie sings about fighting back tears, you’ll be fighting back you’re own.

The end of the video, which is dedicated to his mother, displays a collection of post-it notes filled with “positive vibes” written by Jackie’s mom. It zooms in on one that reads, “Your setback is a set up for a come back.” Which just so happens to be the title of Lee’s latest single. It was a coincidence his brother discovered when Jackie went to record ‘Comeback.’

Reading about Jackie’s story and listening to the song, his words are just as encouraging and inspiring as they were when we spoke a year and a half ago – just with different context now. It’s a good reminder that you never know what others are going through, and to always be kind.

Whether or not ‘Long Year’ becomes a hit, we know country fans value authenticity. The vulnerability in this song and the accompanying video is something to respect, even if you can’t personally relate. From the outpouring of love and support for the singer since the release, we can already tell that ‘Long Year’ has touched so many lives, something we’re sure his mom would be proud of.

Favorite Lyrics: I’m talking to you like you’re sitting next to me, blinking back and ocean and trying to steer, it’s been a long year…

Jackie shared his story with People, you can read more about it here.

You can purchase both ‘Long Year’ and ‘Comeback’ on iTunes and Google Play, or stream on Spotify.

Kane Brown, Cam, LANCO and WKLB Take Over Lansdowne

It was a warm June day as the sun beamed over Fenway Park and the surrounding area. A line of 8,000 strong had nearly completely wrapped around Fenway Park as it was time for what has become the annual party on Lansdowne Street known as the Country 102.5 Street Party. It’s one of the few days that the popular street is more crowded than on a Red Sox-Yankees game. And this past Sunday, June 3rd was no different as country fans came to see Kane Brown, Cam, LANCO, Brown & Gray, Stephanie Quayle and New England favorite Timmy Brown.

Timmy Brown kicked off the day with fan favorite ‘Lil Bit’ and of course a performance of ‘Sweet Caroline’ with the stage peering right at the fabled Green Monster. Following Timmy’s set was a couple rising acts including Stephanie Quayle who delivered an energetic set that included her single ‘Selfish’ and Brown & Gray who have been all over the airwaves with ‘Top Down.’

The energy continued when LANCO took the stage. The guys were fresh off an airplane from St. Louis where they had just played a show on Dierks Bentley’s 2018 tour the night prior. Their set consisted of ‘Troublemaker,’ ‘Long Live Tonight,’ ‘Pick You Up,’ and their current single ‘Born To Love You,’ which had fans singing along. They continued with ‘Singing At The Stars’ before playing the song their most known for, ‘Greatest Love Story,’ which included a crowd singalong. It was a quick day for LANCO in Boston but one that they took full advantage of as the crowd was buzzing after they left the stage.

Next up was the sensational Cam- one of our favorite artists because of there powerful vocals and badass attitude. The California artist started her time off with ‘Road To Happiness’ and ‘Mayday’ before telling the crowd a story about a guy who she had an ‘adult relationship’ with and the next day, he didn’t talk to her or show her any respect. She later explained on social media, “Once upon a time a boy treated a girl with zero respect. So she learned from her Half Broke Heart and started talking with other women about how to handle situations like this. And she lived happily ever after.” With that story, she performed ‘Half Broke Heart.’ Her day continued with ‘Hungover on Heartache,’ ‘Palace,’ ‘Cold in California,’ ‘Sweet Dreams,’ and ‘Village’ before playing the song we were most excited to hear live- ‘Diane.’ Cam’s powerful vocals echoed beautifully down Lansdowne Street and fans were singing and dancing along to the raucous performance of this jam. Ending her day, Cam performed ‘Burning House’ before waving to the crowd and retreating backstage.

Ending the day was the ever so popular Kane Brown. Throughout the day, Kane would make his way to and from backstage to the radio room at House of Blues which would cause the crowd to start screaming when he walked by. It was apparent that the majority of the crowd was there to see Kane as the bass’ were cranked up and the crowd screamed even louder when he took the stage saying, “BOSTON! How we doing!?” He started off with ‘Found You’ and ‘Hometown’ which were massively popular with the crowd as it seemed they were singing every word back to him. And it only continued with ‘Used To Love You Sober’ and ‘What’s Mine Is Yours.’

The day continued with upcoming single ‘Lose It,’ ‘Better Place’ and ‘Cold Spot’ before Kane and his guitarist Alex gave the crowd an acoustic set that included a cover of Billy Currington’s ‘If I Fall.’ Brown would continue with a mash up that included covers of ‘Billionaire,’ ‘Ms. Jackson,’ ‘Over My Head’ and his own ‘Location.’ His day in Boston would continue with ‘There Goes My Everything,’ ‘Heaven,’ ‘Weekend,’ ‘Learning’ and ‘Closer’ before a two song encore that started with ‘Pull It Off’ and his Number One single, ‘What If’s.’

It was a great day in the Fenway as Country 102.5 always knows how to throw a great party. And if you missed this Street Party, don’t fret- they announced on stage that their fall edition would return on September 23rd. Lineup and details will be announced in the future- and we’ll share all the details when we have ’em!

Catching up with NECM Artist to Watch Brandon Lay

New England Country Music 2018 artist to watch Brandon Lay has had a busy spring. He has played several stadiums as part of Kenny Chesney’s 2018 Trip Around the Sun tour which will continue all summer, leading up to the seemingly annual end-of-summer party at Gillette Stadium, and also put out his new single ‘Yada Yada Yada.’ Brandon was kind enough to take some time to talk to us as he geared up to play AT&T Stadium in Dallas this past weekend.

Brandon has been touring and building a following basically since he moved to Nashville in 2010. Last year he officially put out his debut single ‘Speakers Bleachers and Preachers’. The autobiographical song describes his upbringing. While the writing is specific to his experiences, fans from all walks of life have been drawn to the song and related it to their own lives. As Brandon explains, “I grew up in a small town in West Tennessee, right between Memphis and Nashville, Jackson is my hometown. Life pretty much revolved around playing ball, going to church, and going to school and chasing girls around Jackson. It’s a quite literal approach we took to writing the song. There were some lines in it like the Kroger Parking Lot and the Kenny Chesney line and the Black and Milds that are so specific, but it was cool to see people fill in the blanks. Maybe those weren’t the exact details of their upbringing but its cool to see people relate to it.”

We joked with Brandon that his teachers might be upset they didn’t make the song (he said they aren’t, he caught up with some recently who were very supportive), one person who did make the cut was now tourmate Kenny Chesney, with Lay singing “Any Chesney song gonna make her dance.” The line was not an attempt to butter Kenny up for a spot on his tour, it was just part of Brandon’s life experiences. In fact, the first concert he ever went to was Kenny’s local stop on his first headlining tour. Though at the time we talked, he was only 3 weekends into the Trip Around the Sun tour, Lay says its already been an “electric” experience- “I’ve been really surprised at how many people have actually made into the stadium for our set. We kick off at 5 followed by OD (Old Dominion) and Thomas Rhett and obviously Kenny. The crowds have been great and I’ve learned so much already just from Kenny and his crew. It really is a dream situation so we’re trying to take advantage of it… (it’s) been a life changer already that I’m thankful for.”

One song fans have been hearing at his live shows is his new single ‘Yada Yada Yada’ which to us sounds like a warm breeze feels. It’s the perfect song for summer. Brandon says the song is “the other end of the spectrum” as far as his writing and style from ‘Speakers Bleachers and Preachers.’ “Since SBP was so literal with the way we wrote it, I wanted something that was kinda the opposite of that and a little unexpected. I’ve been in Nashville while writing songs and I’ve gotten to write with a lot of other good writers. Coming out of the gate we wanted something that gives that sense of background and we just decided to follow it up with something that’s just fun and didn’t try to move the world.” The song really hits the spot as a carefree summer song that we know we’ll be whistling along to all summer.

Of course the highlight to any New Englander’s summer is the 2 nights Kenny Chesney brings his tour to Gillette Stadium. Last year Brandon played a pregame party at Toby Keith’s at Patriot Place but was able to check out both nights, something he described as being “unlike any other” and he can’t wait to be a bigger part of it this year.

In addition to 2 nights at Gillette Stadium in August, Brandon will be playing a free show at Mohegan Sun’s Wolf Den on June 7th. You can follow Brandon on Twitter and Instagram and be sure to check out brandonlay.com for a full list of tour dates and info on his upcoming debut album due later this year.

Faren Rachels: ‘Uber Driver’ Single Review

In 2018 almost everyone knows what an Uber driver is. However, for the Georgia native Faren Rachels, the delivery car service has a different meaning. The female country singer recently released her debut single titled ‘Uber Driver.’ Rachels has an old school country sound; a cross between June Carter and Miranda Lambert. The song opens with instruments and is full of funny metaphors comparing old flames to Uber drivers. ‘He’s always right where he says he’s going to be and hell if you could do that I’d let you start charging me.’ This makes for relatable and relevant lyrics for dating in 2018 while keeping a sense of humor.

Farens’ southern roots and feisty personality shine through in the song. ’Why can’t you be like my Uber driver? He ain’t got nothing to say about my all nighter.’ Drivers for the car service Uber, are notoriously generous and compliant because they want to get a good rating which will aide in attracting more fares. Fares implies, boyfriends could take notice of this when making promises in the future.

You may be too distracted by the comedic lyrics to even notice the catchy melody. The River House recording artist has many influences from 90’s woman in country plus a background in southern rock. This unlikely combination is what creates the unique sound combining the old time rhythm with a new twist that can be heard in her debut single. Faren was on tour with Luke Combs last fall and does not have any New England dates in the future. Hopefully, being named one of Rolling Stones’ Artist to Watch in 2018 will get her some more tour dates in New England!

Favorite Lyrics: He don’t act like he wants to choke me when I sing backseat karaoke…

April Showers Bring May Flowers, But May Brings Concert Season!

The weather is finally warming up here in New England and all we can think about at NECM are the amazing shows coming our way this summer. There are twelve concerts with country performers heading to our big outdoor venues, The XFINITY Center in Mansfield, MA, and the XFINITY Theatre in Hartford, CT. This year the lineups are as stacked as ever with concerts featuring some of the biggest names in Country Music. Whether you have PIT tickets or like to kick it on the lawn you won’t want to miss these shows!

Jason Aldean: High Noon Neon Tour
Lineup: Jason Aldean, Luke Combs, Lauren Alaina, and DeeJay Silver.
XFINITY Theatre: Friday May 25^th at 8 PM
XFINITY Center: Saturday May 26^th at 7:30 PM

Rascal Flatts: Back To US Tour
Lineup: Rascal Flatts, Dan + Shay, and Carly Pearce
XFINITY Theatre: Friday June 8^th at 8 PM
XFINITY Center: Saturday June 9^th at 7:30 PM

Country 92.5 Presents: Sam Hunt at Damon & Cory’s Summer House Party
Lineup: Sam Hunt, Kip Moore, and Conner Smith
XFINITY Theatre: Friday June 29^th at 8 PM

Chris Stapleton: All American Road Show
Lineup: Chris Stapleton, Marty Stuart, and Brent Cobb
XFINITY Center: Saturday June 30^th at 7 PM

Miranda Lambert & Little Big Town: The Bandwagon Tour
Lineup: Miranda Lambert, Little Big Town, Turnpike Troubadours, and Tenille Townes
XFINITY Theatre: Friday July 20^th at 8 PM
XFINITY Center: Saturday July 21^st at 7 PM – Presented by WKLB

Keith Urban: Graffiti U World Tour
Lineup: Keith Urban and Kelsea Ballerini
XFINITY Center: Saturday August 4^th at 7:30 PM

Brad Paisley: Weekend Warrior World Tour
Line up: Brad Paisley and Tyminski
XFINITY Center: Saturday August 11^th at 7:30 PM

Lady Antebellum & Darius Rucker: Summer Plays on Tour
Lineup: Lady Antebellum, Darius Rucker, and Russell Dickerson
XFINITY Theatre: Saturday July 28^th at 7 PM
XFINITY Center: Saturday September 22^nd at 7 PM

Maren Morris: opening for Niall Horan’s: Flicker World Tour
Lineup: Niall Horan and Maren Morris
XFINITY Theatre: Friday September 24th at 8 PM
XFINITY Center: Saturday September 8th at 7 PM

Willie Nelson: Outlaw Music Festival
Lineup: Willie Nelson, Sturgill Simpson, Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats, Margo Price, Lukas Nelson + Promise of the Real, and Particle Kid.
XFINITY Center: Friday September 21^st at 3 PM

Kid Rock + Brantley Gilbert: Red Blooded RocknRoll Redneck Extravaganza
Lineup: Kid Rock, Brantley Gilbert, and Wheeler Walker Jr.
XFINITY Center: Saturday September 29^th at 6:30 PM

Zac Brown Band: Down The Rabbit Hole Live!
Lineup: Zac Brown Band
XFINITY Theatre: Sunday September 30^th at 7 PM

Be prepared on show day. Plan ahead and arrive early to allow for time to park, enter the venue, and to purchase food or drinks. For more information about the venues’ policies, procedures, and show day information you can visit the XFINITY Theatre and XFINITY Center websites.

Photos from XFINITY Center Facebook, XFINITY Theatre Facebook, and XFINITY Center Website.

Muscadine Bloodline: ‘Movin’ On’ EP Review

Charlie Muncaster and Gary Stanton, more commonly known as Muscadine Bloodline, have recently become two of my favorite guys on the country music scene. Both grew up in Mobile, Alabama but didn’t become a duo until 2016 when they were both living in Nashville. They’ve been writing, playing and singing songs together ever since.

In 2016, they released a few singles and eventually their debut self titled EP in 2017. ‘Can’t Tell You No,’ their most recent single, released earlier in March, was a great preview of their recently released second EP. ‘Movin’ On,’ produced by Luke Laird and Creative Nation, is a combination of sounds that come together perfectly to describe the gentlemen that make up Muscadine Bloodline. Muncaster’s voice and Stanton’s guitar playing blend together so seamlessly you’d think they’ve been playing together since they lived in Mobile. A little bit of country twang, bluegrass, pop and rock, these guys have created their own strand of country. Rolling Stone puts it perfectly when they compared them to Love and Theft and New Found Glory. Perfectly paired together as co-writers, these guys tell a story and share an experience with every song.

1.) ‘Gravel’ – Written by Gary Stanton, Charlie Muncaster and Derek George.
Impression: The album opens with a song about love gone wrong. With a laid back vibe and unique sound, a night out turns into one too many drinks for one man and his girl driving away with her ex. A blend of a gnarly guitar solo and relaxed vibes let listeners know this duo is well tuned when it comes to versatility.
Favorite Lyrics: Left my heart covered in dust as she’s kickin up gettin’ gone. Not a tear in her eye when she said “goodbye”

2.) ‘You on Me’ – Written by Gary Stanton, Charlie Muncaster and Tyler Reeve.
Impression: With a guitar intro from Stanton, the duo goes on to talk about their favorite things to wear like an old high school state ring, favorite pair of jeans, or favorite band tee. But they know nothing looks better on them than a girl. This song will get you tapping your toe and snapping your fingers along with it.
Favorite Lyrics: There ain’t no way to hide this smile, good God almighty you’re drivin’ me wild.

3.) ‘Can’t Tell You No’ – Written by Gary Stanton, Charlie Muncaster, Chase McGill and Will Weatherly.
Impression: The second single from this EP and it’s a great representation of the alternative sound on this album. The guys shared that ‘Can’t Tell You No’ is their take on ‘a swanky, sexy, love song.’
Favorite Lyrics: I can tell you, who’s left standing on the bachelor, oh I can tell you that there’ll be laughter from my buddies making fun of me.

4.) ‘Put Me on a Pond’ – Written by Gary Stanton, Charlie Muncaster and Josh Jenkins.
Impression: A blend of something similar to Little Big Town’s ‘Pontoon’ and some country twang, these guys have such an exclusive sound. The vibe, the sound, the lyrics, all come together to create exactly what you want in a song when you are floating around in the sun. While these guys rather be on a lawn chair, put me on a float and press play, it’s a perfect soundtrack for a lazy summer day.
Favorite Lyrics: Ditching this day like our name is Ferris Bueller, tell the boss I’m sick, drop the phone and I’m gone.

5.) ‘Movin’ On’ – Written by Gary Stanton, Charlie Muncaster and Cary Barlowe.
Impression: This title track is all about the healing process of a breakup. The song moves us along recognizing signs of moving on. Friends no longer ask, memories don’t sting as much, the mention of their name doesn’t phase you anymore. As listeners, we can relate. It’s a reminder that with time you can move on however, it does take time and it’s not easy.
Favorite Lyrics: One day you wake up, the hurt ain’t as strong. Maybe, maybe, maybe you’re just moving on.

Unfortunately, the closest Muscadine Bloodline is getting to New England is a show in Delaware however, we will be keeping our eyes out for these two! In the meantime, be sure to give ‘Movin’ On’ a listen to.

Luke Combs: ‘Beautiful Crazy’ Single Review

With the release of ‘Beautiful Crazy,’ we got the first taste of the new recordings to be featured on Luke Comb’s upcoming deluxe album. The follow up to his Gold-certified debut album, ‘This One’s For You Too’ is slated to be released on June 1st. It will include the 12 original tracks from ‘This One’s For You,’ ‘Beautiful Crazy,’ and 4 other previously-unreleased songs. Familiar to any fan of Luke Combs, ‘Beautiful Crazy’ became a staple in his live shows after a video of an acoustic performance was posted to Facebook in 2016. With over 3 million views, it was clear that fans connected to this song. Combs can be quoted saying, “Give the people what they want. This is the song they want,” in the video released of him recording ‘Beautiful Crazy.’ With such a following, it is not a surprise the fan favorite song hit number one on the iTunes All Genre Songs Chart immediately after its release.

‘Beautiful Crazy’ is the kind of love song country fans eat up and it is easy to understand why. The love displayed appears to be genuine and sweet as Combs mentions many things that could be considered flaws as the reasons he loves this girl. He sings, Takes forever getting ready, so she’s never on time for anything and She makes plans for the weekend, can’t wait to go out, Till she changes her mind. The character development of his love interest is specific enough to be believable, but is something that most people can relate to. It speaks to the core of what love is about, finding someone who believes our particular kind of crazy is beautiful.

The reigning iHeartRadio Music Awards Best New Country Artist does not hold back when performing this song. The soulful love ballad perfectly showcases Combs’ vocal talent as the passion in his voice pushes the song to another level. Songwriters Luke Combs, Rob Williford and Wyatt Durrette crafted ‘Beautiful Crazy’s lyrics to complement this vocal intensity. Lines, How I’m such a fool, yeah I’m such a fool for her and Well it kinda scares me the way that she drives me wild, create a sense of vulnerability and authenticity directing the song’s focus to Luke’s loving feelings.

‘Beautiful Crazy’s slow melody and catchy lyrics captivate listeners. The song has a way of infiltrating your core, instantly you are humming or singing along. The catchy chorus, Beautiful, crazy, she can’t help but amaze me, The way that she dances, ain’t afraid to take chances, And wears her heart on her sleeve, Yeah, she’s crazy but her crazy’s beautiful to me, only adds to this sensation. At live shows, this is the song that will make you take out your cell phone light and sway back and forth. If you are looking to do just that, Luke Combs will be joining Jason Aldean on the road this summer for the High Noon Neon Tour. Scheduled New England dates include May 25th in Hartford CT at The XFINITY Theatre, May 26th in Mansfield MA at The XFINITY Center, and May 27th in Bangor ME at Darling’s Waterfront Pavillion.

Favorite Lyrics: Well it kinda scares me the way that she drives me wild, but she drives me wild.

You can get your copy of ‘Beautiful Crazy’ here and keep up with all things Luke Combs on his Website, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.