Immediately, 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.
“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.
