aLAbama
Self-Released, 2024
8/10
The multi-instrumentalist Grant Langston returns with a 10th studio album, where an all star cast accompanies him for the dance floor ready, country album.
“Country Or Bust” gets the record started off with plenty of warm twang amid Langston’s smooth voice and the flowing melodies, and “This Old Truck” follows with Tony Horkin’s thumping drums that suit the gritty yet harmonic honky tonk nods.
Closer to the middle, “Make Your Move” carries a rhythmic spirit via the meticulous guitar and pretty vocal harmonies, while “Pure Grain Guarantee” recruits The Hawtthorns for a bar room rocker that seems like it could incite lively dancing or maybe a brawl.
Residing near the end, the swift album highlight, “Keep It Coming”, allows Mark Christian’s radiant banjo to help fuel the dynamic songwriting, and “Corporate Hack” exits with an intimate moment of beauty, grace and poeticism.
A listen that will appeal to fans of country from any era, the classic country bouts and honky tonk fun make every tune here a good time, or, occasionally, a moment to reflect,
Travels well with: Breezers- Hideaway; Jon Byrd- All Your Mistakes