Aussie country musician Keith Urban returns with an ‘urban-pop’ bang on progressive-minded ‘country’ single, “Coming Home.” He’s assisted by Julia Michaels.

Toss out the traditional country rule book! Aussie ‘country’ musician Keith Urban totally disregards it on his latest single, “Coming Home.” Urban has always been less country than most – he’s more progressive-minded than many country musicians his age. That has its pros and its cons. He doesn’t go-it-alone on “Coming Home,” tapping Julia Michaels (singing and co-writing).  Further making the record interesting is who produces it – J.R. Rotem, noted for his pop and urban productions.

To be fair to Keith Urban, perhaps the intro was a bit ‘over-the-top.’  In regards to his vocal performance, he retains country sensibilities.  While the modern pop cues are served up in a heavy dosage throughout “Coming Home” (synths, 808s, and drum programming) a familiar sound, engrained in country music will ease the nerves of some skeptics – the guitar!  Pop and country also share one key thing – a catchy chorus.  Urban checks off that box.

This is mostly Urban’s song, another selling point.  Julia Michaels doesn’t provide contrast until the back half. Her performance is relatively restrained, lacking punch until she joins forces with Urban.  While a full-blown fire isn’t generated, there’s a moderate flame.

Final Thoughts 

How does “Coming Home” stack up? It’s interesting if nothing else.  Give Keith Urban credit for being progressive, even if “Coming Home” is ultimately imperfect.  This record is okay at best, but certainly NOT the second coming. I suspect many will be skeptical.

Keith Urban • Coming Home (Ft. Julia Michaels) – Single • Capitol Nashville • Release: 3.23.18

Writers: Jonathan Rotem, Julia Michaels, Keith Urban, Merle Haggard & Nicole Galyon « Producers: J.R. Rotem & Keith Urban

Photo Credit: Capitol Nashville