Album Review: Tim McGraw’s ‘Emotional Traffic’

Tim McGrawImmediately, I was struck by the musical depth of this highly-anticipated album by Tim McGraw This new release entitled ‘Emotional Traffic’ has been described by Tim McGraw as his best ever and I have to say I would have to agree.  Slated for a release of January 24th, this 12-track album will surely appeal to country fans, as well as, the masses and be a huge crossover hit.

It’s not an album that will probably appeal to a real country traditionalist-type, but Tim McGraw fans, contemporary country, and simply fans of great music will appreciate this.   I believe Tim was spreading his musical wings and exploring creatively without constraints.  He’s reached that point in his career that he can do that.

Track by track review:

“Halo”:  The first track “Halo” gave me chills from the beginning to end.  It’s a dark, mid-tempo song about love going wrong.  This was a hauntingly-beautiful song and I would say this is my favorite song ever by Tim McGraw.  This is a crossover hit in the making that would appeal to the pop world.  Very contemporary feel to this song.

“Right Back Atcha Babe”:  I wasn’t quite as crazy about this one when I first listened to it.  It is my least favorite of the album.  It’s ok, just not my favorite.  It grew on me more the 2nd and 3rd time I listened to it.  I guess there are just some songs that you have to listen to a couple of times before you fully appreciate it.  Now, it puts me in mind of a song that might have been by the Little River Band, and I love them! So, I think I’ve now been converted to liking this song.Tim McGraw

“One Part, Two Part”:  I really enjoyed this mid-tempo song.  Kind of a soulful feel to it and just an all-around feelgood song about love.  This one makes you want to grab a loved one, dance, and sing along.  I like it especially when they break it down near the end.

“I Will Not Fall Down”:  This ballad brought me to tears and gave me chills.  Beautifully written with emotional depth…another crossover hit that many will enjoy.  Another favorite.

“The One”:  Enjoyed this one, too.  Simply a light, bluesy, feelgood, mid-tempo song about “the one” you love and how they make you feel.

“Better Than I Used To Be”:  This song would appeal those fans of traditional country.  Mid-tempo, reflective, and honest.

“Touchdown Jesus”:  Not my favorite on the album, but still a good one.  More in the traditional country vain.  A lot of religious references in this mid-tempo tune.  Many will appreciate the uplifting message in this tune.

“The One That Got Away”:  Powerful, radio-friendly ballad that country fans will love.  It’s slightly dark and melancholy, but filled with hope at the same time.  This song tells a story like many great country songs do.

“Felt Good On My Lips”:  Uptempo, playful, fun, and another favorite on the album.  A great summer song for those long roadtrips and very country radio-friendly.

“Hey Now”:  More of a pop, bluesy-feel.  Enjoyable.  Not the strongest on the album, but still enjoyable.

“Only Human”:  Powerful and thought-provoking ballad featuring pop/R&B star, Ne-Yo.  Sure to be a cross-over hit that will reach into the hearts of many.

“Die By My Own Hand”:  Another powerful ballad with thought-provoking, beautiful lyrics that will surely be a hit on country radio.

This whole album is my favorite release of Tim McGraw’s to date and I strongly recommend it when it hits stores January 24th.  Not just country fans will enjoy this album, but simply fans of great music.  Well-done, Tim! Well worth the wait.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars.

 

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