Walker Hayes has unleashed his unique and fresh brand of country in his new album – Country Stuff – available everywhere now. Here, we break down our thoughts on the divisive new album.
Let’s preface this with the obvious, Walker Hayes’ unique brand of country is not for everyone. Just as TikTok is not for everyone, yet the app is used by more than 700 million, so ‘Fancy Like’ will not be to everyone’s taste yet the track has been viewed over 737,000,000,000 times on the app. The song has become a viral sensation – thanks to the viral video of Hayes and his daughter Lila dancing to the track – and though it is not a clever or sophisticated track, the likability and relatability of the track smacks you in the face. It’s through this lens that you should view Country Stuff that never pretends to be more than it is, just as Hayes never claims to be more than he is.
Throughout Country Stuff, Hayes has certainly imbibed a lot more of the ‘country stuff’ and feel into the project, infusing a more traditional instrumentation and production into the project than his debut releases. Of course, there are weak points on the project – ‘U Girl’ could have easily been cut – but there are also notable highs, like in the mid-tempo collaboration with Carly Pearce and the stunningly reflective, stripped-back ‘Briefcase,’ in which Hayes reflects on his relationship with his father. ‘Drinking Songs’ is another easy standout as Hayes sings over a guitar loop for forgiveness. This, alongside following track ‘AA’ show Hayes ability to pack in the charm in a self-deprecating manner.
For fans of Hayes, Country Stuff is an easy win as he continues to carve his own path in an often closely guarded and gated genre. It is a breath of fresh air.
