James Robert Webb
Bison Creek, 2020
8/10
The rising country star James Robert Webb has been making quite a name for himself with a trio of top 40 singles and a large handful of streams, and here with his self-titled album he’s sure to make quite a few more fans as his traditional meets modern country formula has never sounded better.
Webb starts the listen with the warm country spirit of the melodic and breezy “Now We’re Gettin’ Somewhere”, where an infectious chorus leaves an impact, and “April May” follows with a cautious approach of flowing rhythm in the heartfelt original.
In the middle, “Okfuskee Whiskey” brings a more rugged approach that soars with an anthemic quality, while “Stealing Home” steers the listen into ballad territory, where soft keys add much to the elegance. “If I Had One Of Those”, the album standout, then recruits pedal steel on the lush, pop friendly tune that’s impossible not to enjoy.
Close to the end, “I Love You + Me” is a romantic moment of much beauty and strong vocal work from Webb, and “Think About It” finishes the listen with classic country ideas where a banjo is part of the timeless appeal.
A doctor by day and a nighttime country singer, Webb’s got a knack for storytelling, and his originals here prove that he’s got the songwriting chops to be a household name. If your interests are anywhere near the realm of country- past or present- James Robert Webb is a name you’ll want to familiarize yourself with immediately.
Travels well with: Bobby Bare- Great American Saturday Night; Merle Haggard- Working In Tennessee