Jason Aldean : 9 Review

Country music star Jason Aldean is releasing his ninth album. Appropriately titled, 9 on Broken Bow records. Produced by Michael Knox, which Aldean has worked with on all his previous albums, 9 continues in his usual manner. The album contains a grand total of sixteen tracks. The sounds are all typical Aldean, pop-country delivered with his smooth masculine country-tinged voice. The songs were recorded at The Conderosa, College Grove, TN. and Treasure Isle Studios, Nashville, TN. The majority of the tunes are on the mellow side with a couple low, medium tempo songs with big distorted guitar riffs to wake us up.

“Tattoos and Tequila” begins our slow-paced musical journey. Opening with a catchy big guitar riff, the song builds to an anthem chorus and emotional lyrics. The songwriting is excellent, with a memorable melody and entertaining song form. Aldean sounds relaxed, and his voice is full. The guitar playing is outstanding. The production is big, with lots of parts and instruments filling the space.

“We Back” is a slow burner with a percolating descending guitar figure. The lyrics are perfect for Aldean’s style and delivery, and he sings them with conviction. The theme is typical country and should fit right into Aldean’s fan base. Knox does a great job of making the guitar sound big while keeping a pop-country sound without getting to rockish. The song does not break new ground for Aldean, but it will undoubtedly be an excellent mellow drinking song.

Overall, 9 has some good moments, but the mellow nature of the album and the number of songs that really do not offer a wide range of tempos or feels makes the album a little underwhelming as a whole. The best approach is to pick your favorite four or five tracks and make your own mini-album from this one. Aldean fans will love it, but he probably will not pull in a lot of new ones with this LONG play album.

Jason Aldean: Website