The first thing you notice about Kip Moore is his voice. It’s an instrument in itself—gritty, soulful, and unmistakable. The second, at least with “Solitary Tracks,” is the sheer scope. This is a 23-song album, spread across four sides of vinyl—proof that the album format is far from dead. Moore seems determined to make the most of it with more, Moore you might say.
A defining trait of Moore’s artistry is his songwriting. He has a hand in all but one track, shaping the album with his deeply personal narratives and raw storytelling. From the opening line—”pills won’t work and the bottle just runs me dry”—he sets the tone for an emotionally intense ride. The title track echoes latter-day Springsteen, blending confessional lyrics with a reflective, world-weary delivery. Meanwhile, “High Hopes” leans into the grit that Moore does so well, and “Pretty Horses” continues the introspective streak.
Despite the heavy themes, this isn’t a one-note album. Moore is a rocker at heart, and “Livin’ Side” exudes a built-in confidence. Elsewhere, “Around You” veers into pop territory, while “Half Full Cup” is an anthem for “a bunch of small-town dreamers”—a sentiment that will resonate with many.
“Bad Spot” stands out as the only track Moore didn’t write, yet it fits seamlessly within the record’s themes of struggle and hope. Producer Jaren Johnston of The Cadillac Three lends his touch here, co-writing several songs, including the romantic “Straight Line Boots” and the hard-working grit of “Rivers Don’t Run.”
Moore proves time and again that he knows how to craft a powerful chorus, as heard in the fiery “Burn.” Reflection is another strong suit, and “Live Life Like You Stole It” underscores that strength. The emotional weight of “Southern Son” is undeniable, while “Learning As I Go” highlights top-tier musicianship. Meanwhile, “Alley Cat” brings in a proper honky-tonk groove.
For a live setting, “Live Here to Work” seems destined to be a crowd favourite (you’ll see why!). It’s also the only track Moore penned solo, complete with an arena-ready rock solo that even Bon Jovi’s Jay Joyce—who consulted on the album—might want to borrow. That arena-rock energy carries into “Love and War,” only to be followed by the stark contrast of “Flowers in December,” a delicate ballad.
The emotional range of the album is striking. “Forever Is a Lie” is fragile and haunting, while “Wildfire” carries a darker energy. “Tough Enough” could have fit seamlessly on Springsteen’s “Tunnel of Love,” bringing a radio-friendly shine to the album. Even the deep cuts are packed with surprises—“Good Things Never Last” channels a Prince-like soul, while “Take What You Get” is somewhat ironic on an album that never settles for anything.
Closing with “Only Me,” Moore asks for a connection that this record is sure to make with listeners everywhere. In his own words: “There’s no pattern you have to follow, and sometimes you gotta gamble on yourself. You gotta be bold enough to trust your gut and willing to roll those dice if you believe in something.”
With “Solitary Tracks,” Moore proves that his gamble has paid off. This is a bold, expansive, and deeply personal statement from one of country music’s most compelling voices.
Rating 8.5/10
