Country Universe

Identity Through Imaging

September 10, 2020 Zackary Kephart 7

An essay on how visual representation has shaped country music.

Classic Country Singles: Ricky Skaggs, “Highway 40 Blues”

September 8, 2020 Zackary Kephart 3

It’s about Kentucky, not Nashville!

Single Review: Carly Pearce, “Next Girl”

September 8, 2020 Zackary Kephart 2

“Next Girl” doesn’t channel the best of ’90s country, but it’s an interesting artistic pivot for Carly Pearce nonetheless.

A Country Music Conversation: Sirius Top 1000 Country Songs of All Time, #460-#451

September 4, 2020 Kevin John Coyne 12

We’re begging of you, please, don’t take this list too seriously.

Album Review Roundup: Mary Chapin Carpenter, Zephaniah OHora, and Colter Wall

September 2, 2020 Zackary Kephart 7

Mary Chapin Carpenter offers hope, Zephaniah OHora channels the sounds of yesterday, and Colter Wall doesn’t deliver a lot of punch in this roundup post.

Album Review: Ruston Kelly, Shape & Destroy

September 2, 2020 Zackary Kephart 0

“Shape & Destroy,” while aiming for lower stakes, is no less compelling that previous Ruston Kelly projects.

2020 CMA Awards: Full List of Nominees

September 1, 2020 Kevin John Coyne 5

This year’s CMA Nominations have been announced.

Single Review: Chris Stapleton, “Starting Over”

August 30, 2020 Zackary Kephart 2

“Starting Over” signals an underwhelming return for Chris Stapleton.

A Country Music Conversation: Sirius Top 1000 Country Songs of All Time, #470-#461

August 29, 2020 Kevin John Coyne 10

Help us make it through another ten entries of this endless list.

Album Review: Karen Jonas, The Southwest Sky and Other Dreams

August 27, 2020 Zackary Kephart 1

The Southwest Sky and Other Dreams offers a sharp refinement to Karen Jonas’ scope and writing that’s among her best yet.