(Image courtesy of MCA Nashville)Sam Hunt's highly anticipated debut album was released Monday and completely surpassed expectations. “Montevallo" is currently ranked No. 2 on iTunes, just behind Taylor Swift’s newest album, and has been given the label of Editors’ Choice.
Hunt blurs the lines of musical genres as he artfully combines the story-like lyrics of country, the soulful sound and speak-sing of R&B;, the quick-spoken excellence of rap and upbeat notes of pop. As you go through his album, you’ll find a particular song and say, “He’s definitely country,” but in roughly four minutes, as the track changes, you suddenly doubt your previous assessment. That’s the beauty of “Montevallo”: The entire album keeps you guessing. You’re not just a country fan or just an R&B; fan — you’re a Sam Hunt fan.
An exceptional album was predicted, as his hit “Leave the Night On” dominated radio and was certified gold. However, you were probably a fan of Hunt before this single, and most likely before you even knew it was him. Hunt wrote Kenny Chesney’s “Come Over,” Billy Currington’s “We Are The Night” and Keith Urban’s “Cop Car,” which he covers on this album. It goes without saying Hunt wrote all 10 songs on this album, making the album extremely personal. Not to knock other artists, but this feat is commendable.
Here are four standout songs you'll find on the album:
The Classic Country — “Raised on It”
As many up-and-coming country stars do, Hunt has a track reminiscent of his home roots. “Raised on It” has a distinct country flair, as he is from a small town in Georgia. This track showcases each aspect of a true country boy that one would expect, boots and all. Although it’s not necessarily the biggest hit on the record, it is well done, and it deserves an honorable mention as it showcases who Hunt is. Plus, it’s a brilliant track to jam out to as you drive down the Interstate.
The Game Changer — “Break Up in a Small Town”
Although he has many tracks that seem to lean more to R&B;, “Break Up in a Small Town” is definitely a game changer for this album. It begins with multiple verses of speak-sing, incorporating hard hitting beats throughout. The lyrics are sentimental as well, making it one of the most memorable tracks on the album
Honorable Mention for Game Changer — “Speakers” This track is equally as hard hitting as "Break Up in a Small Town," and it deserves multiple listens with its unique beats and story-like lyrics.
The Ballad — “Make You Miss Me"
“Make You Miss Me” explicitly says what everyone thinks after a break up — props to Sam Hunt for making a track that does it with class. As with every song on the album, Hunt uses crafty lyrics that plainly show who he is, and it is evident the words come from a very personal place. “Make You Miss Me” exemplifies that idea perfectly, with a somber hard-hitting beat, and deep, melodic vocals.
Reach the reporter at dpharias@asu.edu or follow her on Twitter @_Desirayray
Like The State Press on Facebook and follow @statepress on Twitter.
