Reading Time: 2 min read

3.5 out of 5 stars

Jason Aldean, Rearview Town © Broken BowJason Aldean flaunts his rich, robust vocals on “Rearview Town,” the title track and second single from his forthcoming album.

One of country music’s more popular stars has returned! Jason Aldean is set to release a new studio album, Rearview Town, on April 13, 2018.  Give the coolness of country music as of late (with a few exceptions mind you), the return of Aldean is big for the genre.  After releasing “You Make it Easy” earlier in 2018, he drops his forthcoming album’s title track, “Rearview Town.”

   

“Rearview Town” runs a respectable length, lasting just a little more than three minutes. Positively, Aldean doesn’t draw anything out or milk this record for more than it’s worth. Mid-tempo, “Rearview Town” is set in a minor key, giving it a darker sound.  Aldean sings confidently and expressively, showcasing the pureness of his voice and a rich tone.  After a solid, relatively poised first verse, the briefer second verse grows more robust, and adds more attitude.

Expectedly, Aldean drops a catchy, memorable chorus.

“It ain’t nothin’ but a rearview town
Broken hearts and rusted plows
Roots ripped right up out of the ground
Never thought I’d ever leave it
It ain’t nothin’ what it used to be
Population minus me
On the other side of that dust cloud
Ain’t nothin’ but a rearview town.”

The second iteration of the chorus is followed up by a brief, somewhat predictable, but soundly executed electric guitar solo.


Final Thoughts

All in all, “Rearview Town” is another solid Jason Aldean record. It meets the expectations without question.  That said, it would be nice to hear Aldean kick things up a notch.  At certain spots, this record feels like it kind of sits instead of kicking into that next gear.  Still, lots to like and definitely respect.


Jason Aldean • Rearview Town • Broken Bow • Release: 4.13.18 
Photo Credit: Broken Bow

the musical hype

the musical hype (Brent Faulkner) has earned Bachelor's and Master's degrees in music (music education, music theory/composition respectively). A multi-instrumentalist, he plays piano, trombone, and organ among numerous other instruments. He's a certified music educator, composer, and freelance music blogger. Faulkner cites music and writing as two of the most important parts of his life. Notably, he's blessed with a great ear, possessing perfect pitch.