Growing up, I was captivated by the electrifying sounds of 80s metal bands: Bon Jovi, Poison, Cinderella, Skid Row, and Guns N’ Roses. They all played a role in shaping my musical journey. Recently, I watched the final episode of a documentary on Paramount chronicling that era. It concluded with a contemplative note, suggesting that rock ‘n’ roll was no longer just about “Nothin’ But A Good Time.” In 2023, it seemed that country music might be the new 80s rock. It wasn’t a theory I had pondered before, but it struck a chord with me, perhaps explaining my deep affection for the genre. Back then, when you bought an album like Danger Danger’s with a track titled “Slipped Her The Big One,” you knew what to expect, and it didn’t make the music any less ace.
Enter “Who Killed The Cowboy” by Dustin Lynch. “Where did our cowboys go?” he croons, and the answer is crystal clear—they’re right here, making records, and superb ones at that.
“Honky Tonk Heart” serves as a testament to proper rock ‘n’ roll sensibilities within country music. “George Strait Jr” embodies old-school ethos with a modern twist. Lynch combines the best of both worlds, honoring tradition while injecting fresh energy.
“Chevrolet” takes an unexpected turn with Jelly Roll, and you’ll “Drift Away” (that’ll make sense when you hear it), and if everything Jelly touches turns to gold discs, “If I Stop Drinkin'” features a proper rock ‘n’ roll solo, reminiscent of the guitar heroics that defined the 80s metal era.
“Only Girl In This Town” showcases Lynch’s exceptional talent for crafting a well-rounded, emotionally resonant country song. It’s beautifully executed, to be honest, they all are. “Breakin’ Up Down” unleashes a chorus of monumental proportions, proving that Lynch knows how to create anthems that stick in your head.
“Trouble With This Truck”—if you don’t know what it’s missing, you haven’t listened to this music. It’s a quintessential country song that will resonate with anyone who’s ever listened to the genre. “Blue Lights” delves into themes of longing and heartbreak—it doesn’t matter whether it’s real or not.
“Lone Star” leaves us wondering if he’s found what he’s looking for, or perhaps someone else, and “Listen To The Radio” distills the essence of small-town life.
“Long Way Home” provides the perfect soundtrack for those unforgettable moments, echoing the sentiments of “she lost more than that in my backseat” (if you know…), and it’ll have the same effect.
Dustin Lynch boasts billions of streams, much like the rockers of old counted their sales in the millions. “Who Killed The Cowboy” will undoubtedly add another billion to his tally. He is a master at giving his audience what they crave, and this album is no exception. As they say, the more things change, the more they stay the same.
Rating: 8/10
