Album Review
Album Review: Jerrod Niemann, Judge Jerrod and the Hung Jury
Many of Music Row’s brightest stars have been familiar with Jerrod Niemann for a while now due to his impressive songwriting talent. With the release of his debut album Judge Jerrod and the Hung Jury, now the world knows just what a bright future the songwriter has as an artist in his own right. Powered by his catchy number one single “Lover, Lover,” the project made its debut at the top of the charts. However, this album isn’t your ordinary introduction to a new artist. It’s a tongue-in-cheek musical journey complete with a wink and a smile.
For more on "Lover, Lover," check out BEHIND THE SONG and the tune's music video.
The first thing you encounter is the movie trailer spoof “Intro,” the first of eight humorous skits to keep you entertained on top of the 12 songs featured. They are nice transitions between songs, particularly the ones that serve as benchmarks for your listening experience. Jerrod teams with tunesmith Dallas Davidson and critically-acclaimed singer-songwriter Jamey Johnson when he launches into the music. “They Should Have Named You Cocaine” has a lazy, laid-back feel with a twang-filled vocal from Jerrod. It’s a pleasant surprise for those folks whose tastes lean more traditional. Jerrod’s traditional leanings continue throughout the album with tracks like “Old School New Again” and “How Can I Be So Thirsty” which is straight out of country music honky-tonk history.
Meanwhile, Jerrod takes a page from the Kenny Chesney songbook with the beachy “Down in Mexico” and explores soulful funk flavored country with “Come Back To Me,” proving that he can handle a variety of styles. However, the Kansas native really shines on a couple of particular tracks that have a more serious tone. “What Do You Want From Me” superbly displays the agony his ex is putting him through as their relationship lingers in limbo. While “I Hope You Get What You Deserve” has an almost classical feel with the prominence of the cello. It’s a beautiful piece of music with moving lyrics that really stand out amidst all the fun and games and drinking songs included on the project.
Check out more on Jerrod Niemann in Artist to Watch and hear our exclusive interview with him here.
The final verdict for Jerrod? Well, he’s definitely not guilty of creating your average, run-of-the-mill debut project. All in all, he has offered an entertaining ride with Judge Jerrod and the Hung Jury and perhaps one of the most creative albums to come out of Nashville this year.
Nikita Palmer for Citadel Digital © 2010
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