Eclectic country artist Thomas Rhett shines on “Life Changes,” the pop-oriented title track from his third studio album.

Thomas Rhett knows album number three, Life Changes, is BIG. His 2015 album, Tangled Up, marked a breakthrough for the country singer. Traditionalists question his eclecticism, but his liberal, open-minded stylistic vibes have won over a crossover audience.  While the singles released ahead of Life Changes suggest a slightly tamer Rhett, “Life Changes” still showcases a hip, urban-pop-loving country artist.

“Life Changes” has pop written all over it, as opposed to country that is. The production has an urban-pop, hip-hop oriented sound of the production. The ostinato piano is a big proponent of this, adding a reminiscent, soulful vibe.  There is clearly an autobiographical tone to this joint. Despite the many changes Thomas Rhett sings about on “Life Changes,” the record possesses a bright, exuberant vibe.  This is a fitting title track from the album.  The chorus has the typical repetition associated with pop and urban records. Still, there are some country sensibilities here.

“Ain’t it funny how life changes / You wake up ain’t nothing the same and life changes… / And I wouldn’t change it for the world, the world, oh no…”

Highlighting the autobiographical nature of “Life Changes,” Rhett talks about adopting a child from Uganda, and having a baby on his way. This part, the bridge, amplifies the thoughtfulness of this particular record.

“I remember the day I told my Daddy and Mama you’re gonna have a grandkid, yep / From Uganda, that’s right, we’re adopting / And she is the cutest little girl that you’ve ever seen /…Now Lauren showing, got one on the way / Yeah that’ two under two, hey, what can I say?”

In regards to cons surrounding the record, there are no glaring cons.

Final Thoughts

All in all, Thomas Rhett has another winner on his hands with “Life Changes.”  While this is a serious record, it’s not blasé by any means.  Rhett still delivers this in a fun, memorable way.  Reminiscing isn’t a new musical trick, but Thomas does well with it overall.

Thomas Rhett • Life Changes • Big Machine • Release: 9.8.17

Photo Credit: Big Machine