I thought that I’d do something different this year and, with one exception, focus this list on songs that aren’t from my list of favorite 2017 albums (so far). Each of those releases, of course, could contribute songs to this list but let’s highlight some other faves of the year.
Hope the High Road, Jason Isbell (from the Southeastern Records release The Nashville Sound)
A song for the times. In an age of vitriol, Isbell proclaims, “I ain’t fighting with you down in a ditch, I’ll meet you up here on the road.”
Come Tumblin’ Down , Colin Hay (from the Compass Records release Fierce Mercy)
I said it before but I’ll say it again. I’m addicted to this song. It’s pure pop deliciousness with a touch of folksiness added for good measure.
If Something Breaks, Front Country (from the Organic Records release Other Love Songs)
I could talk about the group’s tremendous musicianship or singer Melody Walker’s powerful voice but there’s something about this song – a tale of romantic hardship as only a hard-touring band can convey – that is simply captivating.
Everything, Will Kimbrough and Brigitte DeMeyer (from the self-released Mockingbird Soul)
Kimbrough and DeMeyer shine on this quietly majestic hymn.
Promises, Rod Melancon (from the Blue Elan Records release Southern Gothic)
Melancon sings of his Louisiana roots, set to some vintage-sounding guitar-driven rock and roll.
Following You, The Whiskey Gentry (from the Pitch-a-Tent Records release Dead Ringer)
Atlanta Georgia’s The Whiskey Gentry mash up country and rock with outstanding results.
Fool, Richard Edwards (from the Joyful Noise Records release Lemon Cotton Candy Sunset)
Edwards’ release has been something of a sleeper for me, rewarding with each subsequent listen. This song has emerged as a favorite. What starts with an orchestral restraint bursts into a majestic pop symphony.
Young Lady You’re Scaring Me, Ron Gallo (from the New West Records release Heavy Meta)
When you’re in the mood for some gritty garage rock, you’ll be hard-pressed to find much better than Gallo’s latest release. This song is particularly potent, both for the hook and the blistering solo that closes it out.
Whitewash, Lee Bains III & the Glory Fires (from the Don Giovanni Records release Youth Detention)
The fury of Bains and the Glory Fires can sometimes overshadow the catchiness of the melodies and the intelligence of the lyrics. This is the rare “mellow” Glory Fires song, or at least as mellow as they get.
Call Me Stranger, The Mae Trio (from the self-released Take Care Take Cover)
What starts as a melancholy ode to a failed relationship somehow ends up with a touch of euphoria drenched in harmony-driven glory.
Worth the Fight, Austin Hanks (from the self-released Alabastard)
What seems like it might be a break-up song is actually something different, the tale of a guy yearning for continued companionship. “What started out as a splinter ended up as a thorn in my side,” he sings as an electric guitar ushers the song along.
Cold Times, Brent Cowles (from the Dine Alone Records release Cold Times)
Denver’s Cowles set down his acoustic guitar and picked up an electric one. His debut ep as a solo artist rocks with catchy tunes infused with some mighty fine funkiness. With tracks like this one, you’ll find yourself singing along in no time.
About the author: Mild-mannered corporate executive by day, excitable Twangville denizen by night.