Canadian country-pop artist Shania Twain continues her comeback campaign with “Swingin’ With My Eyes Closed,” the third revealed song from ‘Now.’

The good news – Shania Twain is returning after a 15-year hiatus with Now.  The bad news? There’s not really any bad news. Twain is 51 years old and given such a lengthy absence, what has she got to lose? Nothing.  That said, the launch for Now has been so-so.  Her comeback single, “Life’s About to Get Good” was respectable.  Arguably, however, “Poor Me” was meh at best.  Her third reveal from Now, “Swingin’ With My Eyes Closed,” is a step-up.

https://youtu.be/PRv8ZGheTyU

Plenty to like about “Swingin’ With My Eyes Closed.”  The production work has a little bit of everything stylistically.  There’s some country, some reggae, and some pop.  Most notable in regards to production and sound is that there’s a significant amount of country.  This is important to solidify the base audience.  Yes, Twain is a country-pop artist, but ensuring you have the core on your side after a lengthy span of missing in action is important.  With the harmonies and sound, Shania has this covered. Another pro is the fact that this song, particularly the chorus is catchy.

With pros come some cons.  The reggae element of the production is 50/50 for me – maybe 60/40 at best. This works with some artists and fails with others.  Here, it’s not too pronounced.  It makes sense with reference to summer, but it’s still one of those hate it/love it trends in music outside of reggae.  Vocally, Twain sounds fine, but at times, it would be nice to hear her push a bit more as opposed to being a bit even keel.  Again, nitpicking.

Final Thoughts 

So, what’s the verdict on “Swingin’ With My Eyes Closed.” More of a fanboy for this one compared to “Poor Me,” that’s for sure.  I’m not sure that I love it, but it has its moments.  When it’s more countrified and Shania Twain shows more oomph, it’s most appealing.  The reggae isn’t too much, yet, it’s one of those hate it or love it clichés.  Regardless, even with the imperfections of this particular single, excitement isn’t curbed in the least for Now.

Shania Twain • Now • Mercury Nashville • Release: 9.29.17

Photo Credit: Mercury Nashville