Quick Reasons to Listen:
-For Those Tired of the Mainstream Country's Typical Formula
-Emotional Introspection
-Expertly Infused Horn Section
-Heartfelt Orchestra
-Kurt Cobain Approved
Country music has always been a genre plagued by its narrow generalization that it can only be enjoyed by a certain group of people. The majority of the population believes that country music is only limited to the same sound and topics. Sturgill Simpson's 2016 release "Sailor's Guide to Earth" is a tasteful defense of country music being a sophisticated art form. This album is a concept album that was inspired by the birth of Sturgill's son. The album as whole can be viewed as one long letter he is sending to his wife and son for all the times he isn't around. This letter is filled with advice, encouragement and fatherly love. This concept of a father writing a letter could easily become too sentimental and cheesy, but Sturgill maintains a passion for what he is singing and it is sincere. But be prepared this isn't the country album you think you know.
Over the entire album, the music production doesn't just stay in the bubble of country influences. It reaches out to soul music, orchestral, and even some electronic atmospheric music. The first track, "Welcome To Earth" opens with ambient "at sea" noises and follows with a wobble synth which could be taken for, "You are about to listen to some nonstop EDM". But we are brought into a simple piano part and we transition into the emotional Sturgill opening up his heart to his wife and son. It is a beautiful opener and prepares the listener for what's in store. The next track, "Breakers Roar" enters a more dreary tone as far as sound. We hear a string section that goes into a toned down guitar part. We listen to Sturgill explain how life is one big illusion. A pessimistic track that fits the tone. Another highlight is actually a cover of the Nirvana song, "In Bloom". Now in words it sounds pretty stupid to say, "I think a country artist should definitely cover a grunge band's song". But Sturgill proves that statement wrong with a classy rendition that fits well within the scheme of his album. The last song highlight I'll mention is "Oh Sarah". A song that is directed toward his wife. It is a testament how she has helped him through the storms of his life. It is very heartfelt and backed up well by the chorus of strings emotionally driving the song.
There are times where Sturgill has an unapologetic country flavor. Thanks to his guitar tones, vocal delivery, and country infused percussion rhythms. But overall he pushes the boundary of what people have labeled the genre, yet pays homage to the traditions of the genre. I'm a hip hop head myself and I'm surprised. Sturgill's masterpiece might have snuck it's way into my top five albums of the year.
