Album Review
Album Review: Gary Allan, Get Off On The Pain
When a listener cues up a Gary Allan album, they are about to embark on a rock-tinged country music ride that often feels like looking in on a very personal musical journey by the artist and Allen’s latest project Get Off On The Pain is no exception. For his eighth studio album, Gary continues to create an emotional impact with his gravelly vocals laid on the 10 tracks featured here.
The lead single from the album, “Today,” is a tear-jerker filled with the regret of what might have been. Regret seems to be a recurring theme for the project whether it is actually suffering from having them or lacking them. In “I Think I’ve Had Enough,” Gary prohibits those feelings by changing his ways and returning to his lady love. “Along the Way” tells a tale of lessons learned from past mistakes. However, “No Regrets” is the standout on the album that speaks to that topic. The song, which Allan co-wrote, is particularly powerful when considering the personal tragedy that Gary has experienced in his own life. Another notable track is “Kiss Me When I’m Down”, a raw take on a dysfunctional relationship with an ex.
Although he addresses some very real emotions on this album, there are some up-tempo rockers to bring up the mood. With “That Ain’t Gonna Fly,” Allan taps into his past as a California surfer with sounds reminiscent of the Beach Boys. The title track and second single from the project is pure Gary Allan at his best with its rocking guitars and attitude. Meanwhile, love is in the air with the dreamy “We Fly By Night” and the fiddle-laden “She Gets Me.”
For Get Off On The Pain, Gary turns in a solid effort and leaves his fans waiting to embark on his next great musical adventure.
Nikita Palmer for Citadel Digital © 2010
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