CD Reviews- Daryle Singletary- Rockin’ In The Country

The Background

Having played before millions of fans over the past 13 years, Daryle Singletary has evolved into being a country music star known for bringing fun, entertainment and great music to country music lovers everywhere. He now brings “Rockin’ In The Country” on his first E1 Records (formerly KOCH Records) release that comes out 6/16/09. After enjoying #1 hits "I Let Her Lie," "The Note" and other chart toppers like “Too Much Fun”, when asked about the new release, Daryle says; “I spent a lot of time on this project, because I wanted it to be the very best representation of who I am vocally and lyrically. I invited a few of my friends that I’ve always admired, to come into the studio with me." The combination of Daryle’s voice, with special guests Rhonda Vincent, and legendary award-winning fiddler and country-rock artist Charlie Daniels helps increase the album’s profile.

The Review

This could be very well Singletary’s last chance to remind country radio of what it’s been missing. Thirteen years after last hitting the charts with some successful singles, his deep voice and southern drawl hope to make another impact. Whether or not the country dial is kind to this good ole boy, he has done a terrific job of putting together a very complimentary album. The first three tracks are as good of an opening of any album we’ve heard thus far into 2009. It starts off with the dirt kickin’ southern rocker title track about a concert promoter farmer and features Charlie Daniels on background vocals and fiddle. Lead single “Love You With The Lights On” is a smooth bluesy track that reminds of James Otto and Jake Owen’s best. The third standout track comes in the form of the story song “That’s Why God Made Me” about the journey of two children who fall in love as children and then tell a great lesson of adoption and selflessness without hitting you over the head with a message. The rest of this strong album leans on its ballads like “Real Estate Hands” and “Going Through Hell” to showcase Singletary’s baritone, reminding us that outside of King George Strait, we’re really missing this style on the airwaves at the moment. Here’s hoping that this very strong effort engages enough audiences to hear some more efforts just like this one- it’s great classic country at some of its best.

Sounds Like

George Strait

Track Highlights (suggested iPod adds):
Rockin’ In The Country
Love You With The Lights On
That’s Why God Made Me
Going Through Hell
Real Estate Hands
She’s A Woman

The Verdict:
Four Stars Out Of Five

Hit "Listen" to hear a 30 second sample of each song:
1. Rockin' In The Country - (featuring Charlie Daniels) Listen
2. Love You With The Lights On Listen
3. That Why God Made Me Listen
4. How Can I Believe In You (When You'll Be Leaving Me) Listen
5. Going Through Hell (With You Again) Listen
6. Background Noise Listen
7. If I Ever Get Her Back Listen
8. Real Estate Hands Listen
9. She's A Woman Listen
10. She Sure Looks Good In Black Listen
11. They Know How To Grow Em' Listen
12. Take Me Home, Country Roads Listen