Up and coming Virginia Country musician Canaan Smith returns an enjoyable new single, “This Night Back.”

Canaan Smith is not a household name, yet.  He’s 35 years old, but in the mainstream, he’s definitely considered an up-and-comer.  He dropped his debut album, Bronco, in 2015. The biggest song from Bronco was “Love You Like That.” “Love” showcased the potential of Smith.  With Bronco and “Love” behind him, not to mention his April 2017 single, “Like You That Way,” he returns with “This Night Back.”

“This Night Back” opens with electric guitar accompaniment, followed by drums, providing a sound foundation. Smith gives a solid vocal performance. His tone on the verse is fitting, singing in sort of an undertone. This gives the joint a certain cool, appealing vibe. Naturally, Smith ups the ante showing more emotion on the chorus.  Even so, he never goes ‘over the top.’

Speaking of the chorus, it’s bigger as a whole.  The drums are heavier, the guitars are more pronounced, and the addition of an upper register piano ostinato adds the cherry on top. Amplifying the chorus are the vocal shout outs, which add to the swagger.  Of course, it’s goes without mentioning that the chorus is catchy, representing the crowning achievement of “This Night Back.”

Final Thoughts 

All in all, Canaan Smith has something on his hands with “This Night Back.” Perhaps it’s not his breakthrough hit, or maybe it is.  Regardless, it’s an enjoyable country song with pop sensibilities that aren’t too far removed from country music.  In other words, this isn’t quite as eclectic as a Thomas Rhett joint, but appeals beyond the country base without alienating the base…too much.

Canaan Smith • This Night Back – Single • Mercury Nashville • Release: 9.15.17

Photo Credit: Mercury Nashville