Brilliantly eschewing the popular though much maligned “bro-country” aesthetic of some of his contemporaries, two-time CMA Award winner Dierks Bentley mixes deep sensitivity toward females amid the wistful personal reflections and bursts of whimsical humor. Painting spirited portraits of break- ups, hookups, mess-ups, makeups and hopeful re-dos, the singer––who co-wrote seven tracks––creates a thoughtful and empowering relationship-driven set. On hand to help him negotiate the highs and lows are New Orleans jazz great Trombone Shorty, along with Elle King and Maren Morris, who offer keen and refreshing female insight.
Score: 8 out of 10
Dierks Bentley
Black
Capitol Nashville
Producer: Ross Copperman
