Album Review
Album Review: Josh Thompson, Way Out Here
For his first album Way Out Here, newcomer Josh Thompson looked to his musical heroes for inspiration and tapped into his impressive blue-collar work ethic for material. That isn’t to say that Josh’s debut project doesn’t cover the subject of rowdy fun because it definitely does. Thompson covers the spectrum and deliverers with a set of quality songs, all of which he had a hand in writing. After listening to the project, a country fan walks away with a sense of exactly who Josh Thompson is and what he stands for.
The fun side of the singer-songwriter exists in songs like his memorable first single “Beer On The Table,” which became a Top 20 hit for him, and “You Ain’t Seen Country Yet.” On “A Name In This Town,” Josh sings about his hometown rep, while his second single the title track “Way Out Here” speaks of the country way of life, a very popular topic in today’s country music climate. Meanwhile, “Blame It On Waylon” nods at country’s past with its irresistible, infectious rhythm reminiscent of Josh’s biggest influence Waylon Jennings.
The two standout tracks are the ballads “I Won’t Go Crazy” and “Sinner” which both show the softer side of the singer-songwriter. “I Won’t Go Crazy” is Thompson’s vow not to let a breakup get the best of him by falling apart. “Sinner” is particularly powerful with its message of faith and redemption and is a shining example of Josh’s gift of songwriting. All in all, Josh Thompson has turned out a solid, well-rounded album for his first effort.
Nikita Palmer for Citadel Digital © 2010
