Post Malone has made quite the journey throughout his career, constantly evolving and experimenting with different musical genres. From his roots in rap, to pop, ballads, and beyond, he's always managed to make his mark. Now, in 2024, Post has ventured into a genre that seems like it was always meant for him: country music. With country music experiencing a peak in popularity this year, it’s no surprise that one of the biggest stars in the world has decided to embrace the Texas-style country sound that speaks to his roots.
On his latest project, Post Malone dives into all the classic themes of country music: drinking beers, going to church, shooting guns, and living the life of a honky-tonk country boy. He taps into the very essence of what country music is known for, and while it might feel a bit cliché at times, it's hard not to enjoy the ride. While his approach may lean heavily into the traditional country tropes—acoustic guitars, fiddles, and the unmistakable twang in his vocals—there’s something fun and authentic about it all.
What stands out in this album is the impressive roster of country stars that Post Malone has enlisted to feature alongside him. Legends like Hank Williams, Jelly Roll, and Brad Paisley inject some serious energy into the tracks with their powerful voices, helping elevate the songs. The inclusion of these voices adds life and dynamism to the album, though not every feature hits the same high notes—some range from solid to just okay. Regardless, Post’s ability to bring together such an eclectic mix of country talent adds a special touch, creating a nice pace and flow to the album as it moves from one collaboration to the next.
Vocally, Post Malone truly shines in the country genre. His ability to yodel and stretch his voice in ways that feel genuine and fitting for country is impressive. He holds his own against some of the biggest names in the industry, which is no small feat. His voice blends seamlessly with the genre, and you can tell he’s truly invested in this project.
Lyrically, Post Malone delivers a blend of fun and heartfelt moments throughout the album. Tracks like “Yours” and “Losers” showcase a more personal side of the artist—touching on themes like fatherhood and feeling like an outcast. They may come across as cheesy to some, but they carry a lot of emotional weight, and there's a vulnerability in his delivery that makes them stand out.
One unexpected highlight of the album is the drums. They have a punchy, dynamic quality that adds a certain "boom" to each track, energizing the listener and building anticipation for each new song. Surprisingly, even with an 18-track standard edition and an additional 9 tracks in the deluxe version, the album doesn’t suffer from fatigue. It’s a long album, but it maintains a level of excitement and variety that keeps you engaged from start to finish.
While Post Malone may not be reinventing the wheel with this country album, it’s refreshing to hear him take on something new while staying true to his roots. There's no groundbreaking musical innovation here, but the sheer joy and sincerity that Post brings to the genre make this a fun and enjoyable listen. It’s great to see him stepping into the world of country music on his own terms, and his passion for the genre is palpable throughout the album.
RATING: 8/10
NOTABLE TRACKS:
Finer Things
Won't Don't Belong To Me
Losers
Ain't How it Ends
Two Hearts