The EP was produced by long-time Phil Vassar collaborator Jeff Smith and Hunter Hayes’ band leader Andy Sheridan. It opens with the electrifying “July,” which showcases his rich, rumbling voice. It immediately breaks into the up-tempo, spitfire tune “Love Kickin’ in.” The listener can recall Kip Moore on “Hard to Be Happy for You,” which is very relatable, and perhaps the greatest song on the collection.
“Live the Song” is mid-tempo and sultry, while “Wherever the Night Takes Us” is quite refreshing, thanks to its infectious hooks. The latter tune would make a solid choice for a future single for Rutledge on country radio.
After “Rub a Little Dirt on It,” which is reminiscent of a quintessential Brantley Gilbert vocal, the EP closes on a flirtatious note with”Curls,” which is a neat tune to sing along to.
Runway is available on iTunes.
The Verdict
Overall, Adam Rutledge has released a diverse new EP with Runway. There are no filler tracks on here, which makes it hard to select a personal favorite recording. Rutledge emerges as the Chris Daughtry equivalent of country music on this studio offering, and that should be taken as a major compliment. “Hard to Be Happy for You” alone is worth the price of the EP. It garners 4.5 out of 5 stars.
To learn more about up-and-coming country artist Adam Rutledge and his new EP, check out his official homepage.
