Luke Grimes. Photo Credit: Hank Chafin

Singer-songwriter and actor Luke Grimes (“Yellowstone”) released his breakthrough eponymous country album on March 8 via Mercury Nashville/Range Music.

Dave Cobb served as the producer, and Grimes co-wrote 10 out of the 13 tracks on the CD.

This musical effort opens with the midtempo “Burn,” where he displays his crisp, gravely tone, and it immediately breaks into “Playin’ On The Tracks,” which has a stirring vibe to it.

Equally noteworthy is “Hold On” and the spitfire follow-up “Black Powder.” He slows down the pace on the tender ballad “God and a Girl.”

Grimes also allows his harking voice to shine on “Ghost of Who We Were,” while “No Horse to Ride” is lyrically and sonically stunning.

The highlight tune on this collection is “Oh Ohio,” which will resonate with anybody who has ever let their hometown to pursue a dream, which may or may not work. The lyrics are conversational but not contrived. This song is an apology to his hometown, and it will certainly strike a chord as he connects with the hearts of his listening audience.

After the unapologetic and harmonica-driven “Ain’t Dead Yet,” the record closes with the haunting ballad “South on 75” and on a fitting note with the eerie “Worst Of Me,” where he leaves his listeners and fans wanting to hear more.

His self-titled country music album is available on digital service providers by clicking here.

The Verdict

Overall, Luke Grimes’ newest full-length studio offering is highly eclectic, where each song has its own identity. His vocals are gritty and resonant. Grimes is not afraid to be raw and vulnerable on this project, which has a lot of musical variety, and his vulnerability is the listener’s reward.

Grimes is able to take his fans on a journey through his music. Thus far, it is one of the most compelling country album releases from the first quarter of 2024.

This LP is recommended for fans of neo-traditional country music, and for anybody that enjoys such artists as Eric Church, Chris Stapleton, and Kip Moore. Grab a bottle of wine or bourbon, and let Luke Grimes lure you in. This new album garners an A rating.

For more information on Luke Grimes and his new album, follow him on Instagram, Facebook, and check out his official homepage.