In preparation for his eighth studio album, ‘Lifers,’ country musician Cody Jinks has an old-school-sounding gem on his hands with “Must Be the Whiskey.”

“Too much is not enough; it’s not the love, it’s not the lust that grips me / It must be the whiskey.”  Country artists rarely shy away from singing or partaking of their share of alcoholic beverages.  Add Cody Jinks to the list, as he blames the whiskey for his “head and heart” being “at least a million miles apart” on single “Must Be the Whiskey.” “Must Be the Whiskey” serves as the promo single for the Texas musician’s eight album, Lifers.

The chorus of “Must Be the Whiskey,” much like the ‘country love’ of alcohol, is ‘tried and true,’ yet highly effective.  “I’ve been drinkin’ to remember and drinkin’ to forget,” he sings, continuing, “I got ‘I love you’ on my mind, I got Jim Beam on my breath.”  As the whiskey continues to be the culprit, Jinks reflects on his mistakes and regrets, specifically regarding love.

Beyond the lyrics and theme, the music truly helps to propel Jinks.  The sound is refreshingly traditional – old-school and unapologetically country.  There is no electronic, hip-hop, pop, or urban influences – this is ‘TRILL’, down-home, southern, country music.  Set in a minor key, chocked-full of guitars (acoustic and electric) and acoustic drums, talk about a vibe.

Final Thoughts

Yes, country artists sing about booze a lot, but Cody Jinks truly makes the effects of alcohol on his state of mind/love sound brand-new.  “Must Be the Whiskey” is well-rounded.  Jinks delivers terrific vocals, never over-singing, but packing enough punch to keep things interesting.  The songwriting is focused, effectively incorporating matters of the heart and the drink.  As far as the production and sound, keeping things ‘traditional’ in country music is incredibly important, and “Must Be the Whiskey” nails the classic, retro sound.  This is a winner.

Cody Jinks • Lifers • Rounder • Release: 6.15.18

Photo Credit: Rounder