Jason Aldean

About

You can <i>never</i> go wrong on country radio singing the praises of dirt roads, beer and bingo. Jason Aldean found this out when the success of the cartoonish (but genuinely clever) “Hicktown” kick-started his recording career, and this rambunctious slice of Americana is among the highlights on his 2005 self-titled debut album. The distinctive imprint of MuzikMafia mavens Big Kenny and John Rich is evident on various tracks — besides penning “Hicktown,” the duo (together or separately) contributed “Amarillo Sky” (a soaring farmer’s prayer), “Why” (a troubled love ballad) and “You’re the Love I Wanna Be In” (a boisterous tune sparked by slide guitar). The rest of <i>Jason Aldean</i> treads familiar country terrain. There’s a nostalgic look back at sexual awakening (“She Loved Me”), a lonesome trucker’s lament (“Asphalt Cowboy”), and a song of gratitude for everyday blessings (“Good to Go”). Aldean’s vocals balance Dixie-fried charm with hints of yearning and inner doubt and deliver an enjoyable ride through “Hicktown” and points South.

via Apple Music