Music review: Garth Brooks — ‘Gunslinger’
It was two years ago that Garth Brooks launched a country music comeback with his first new album in 13 years. With “Man Against Machine,” Brooks was reintroduced to a new generation of country music fans. The Oklahoma native followed with a tour and all was right in the cowboy universe.
Brooks continues to build off the momentum with his latest studio album. “Gunslinger” is a return to the glory days of albums like 1990’s “No Fences” and 1991’s “Ropin’ the Wind.” The 10 new tracks flow easily and possess the charismatic charm that fueled an iconic career.
“Honky-Tonk Somewhere” opens the set with Brooks pleading, “Help me 911 operator got a Friday night emergency/I need nursin’ cause I’m hurtin’ from a long week workin’/And I’m thirstin’ for a remedy.” The infectious number about finding the right place to have a good time carries the same feel and energy as “Papa Loved Mama” and sets the stage for the relaxed party anthem “Weekend.”
The guitar-driven sound of “Pure Adrenaline” and the sugary hooks found on “Bang! Bang!” show Brooks mixing his country with a heavy dose of rock with a little bit of roll.
“Baby, Let’s Lay Down and Dance” serves as the album’s lead single with its catchy dance groove sprinkled with pure pop flavorings.
Perhaps the strongest song of all features the lovely voice of Trisha Yearwood. The couple’s pairing for this duet simply shines on this tender power ballad. The husband and wife also recently released one of the best Christmas album’s of the year. “Christmas Together” is a delightful collection of holiday favorites as well as the original arrangements “Ugly Christmas Sweater” and “What I’m Thankful For (The Thanksgiving Song).”
The artist that became a world-wide celebrity by blaming it all on his roots for the reason he showed up in boots and ruined a black-tie affair has been certified by the Recording Industry Association of America as the top-selling solo artist in U.S. history with 138 million albums sold.
“Gunslinger” continues Brooks’ knack for working a room and winning friends in both low and high places.