Country star Cole Swindell released his fifth studio album “Spanish Moss” via Warner Music Nashville, which is a pensive and autobiographical musical effort.
It opens with the nonchalant and liberating “Kill a Prayer” and it is followed by the mid-tempo and infectious “Dirty Dancing.”
In “Dale Jr.”, Swindell sings about meeting NASCAR star Dale Earnhardt Jr. and instead of talking about gold records or checkered flags, they both spoke about losing their fathers.
The title track “Spanish Moss” is laid-back, mellow, and a real treat.
“We Can Always Move On” is catchy, radio-friendly, and it will inspire listeners to get up and dance. Swindell continues to acknowledge his home state of Georgia in the smooth “Georgia (Ain’t On Her Mind),” which a neat groove to it.
Equally noteworthy are “Lost Heart,” the unapologetic ‘Bottom of It,” and the uptempo “Left to Get Right,” which is quite a mouthful (reminiscent of Garth Brooks’ “Ain’t Goin’ Down ’til the Sun Comes Up”)
“Country Boy Can’t Survive” is a clever and fun tune (and a nice play on words on the Bocephus classic). “Wild” and “One Day” are both upbeat and refreshing. Swindell taps into his faith on the inspirational “Someone Worth Missing.”
“Forever to Me” is a stunning love ballad that deserves to be a staple at future wedding receptions. This is certainly the highlight track on the entire collection.
After “It Don’t Hurt Anymore,” it closes with the spitfire “Take Me Down,” which has an outlaw vibe to it, and the stirring acoustic ballad “Heads Up Heaven,” where he pays a fitting homage to his late mother.
“Spanish Moss” is available on digital service providers by clicking here.
The Verdict
Overall, “Spanish Moss” is Cole Swindell’s most cohesive and elaborate studio offering to date. It is lengthy but eclectic and it ought to be enjoyed for its beauty, honesty and simplicity.
From start to finish, this record showcases Swindell’s growth and maturity as a songwriter, vocalist, and contemporary storyteller.
The Georgia native is not afraid to be raw and vulnerable on this album and his vulnerability is the listener’s reward.
Each of the 21 songs on here are distinct, special, and polished. “Spanish Moss” is Grammy-worthy, and it garners an A rating. Well done.
To learn more about country singer-songwriter Cole Swindell, follow him on Instagram, X (formerly known as Twitter), and Facebook.
