[usr 3.5]

New country artist Brett Young showcases incredible potential on “Sleep Without You.” Though not new conceptually, “Sleep” has the ingredients to be a hit.

Fresh blood.  That’s what – rather who – up-and-coming country artist Brett Young is. Young scored his “come-up” with single, “Sleep Without You.” “Sleep Without You” is the opening song off of his self-titled EP (Brett Young EP).  The single has picked up steam in recent times, crossing over to the pop charts.   

The production work is slick –  a blend of pop sensibilities and country cues. Also notable in regards to the production is the clean, tidy sound that eschews clutter and being over produced.

Young has a “country” voice, but he doesn’t overdo it.  There’s enough “pop” for crossover possibilities.  The chorus is catchy and rhythmic:

“But as long as the night ends with you in a yellow cab shootin’ me a text sayin’ /comin’ home soon / as long as I can bet on ya crawlin’ into bed after slippin’ out ya high heel shoes…/ I can’t sleep without you.”

Expectedly, the sounds is bigger, more robust on the chorus compared to the verses.  Last, but not least, the theme of the song is nothing new.  Even so, it sounds relatively fresh in Young’s hands.

Final Thoughts

All in all, “Sleep Without You” is well-rounded and has hit written all over it.  Young has a sensational voice that blends the best of country with enough chops to appeal to the pop crowd.  “Sleep Without You” isn’t transcendent or the second coming, but it’s compelling from the first listen.

Brett Young • Brett Young (EP) • Big Machine • Release: 2.12.16

Photo Credit: Big Machine