Jan 24, 2019 By Clint Rhodes for The 3 min read

For his first new album since 2016’s “Fired Up,” Randy Houser delivers an engaging set of entertaining storytelling that’s authentic country through and through.

The Mississippi native, cut from the same country cloth as Eric Church and Chris Stapleton, continues to stay true to his craft by refusing to succumb to the contemporary country formula followed by many of the cookie-cutter acts churned out of Nashville each year

“Magnolia” is the 43-year-old’s fifth studio album and contains 12 new tracks all co-written by Houser.

“I’m drawn to the chaos and the wind/Can’t help but take a look around the bend/And one day I’ll probably settle down/But there’s still a lotta lost to be found,” declares Houser on “No Stone Unturned.” This stirring opener detailing the process of self-discovery speaks directly to those of us trying to find our place in this world.

Serving as inspiration after meeting his wife, “Our Hearts” is a charming love song about making a permanent connection and features Lucie Silvas.

Next up, Hillary Lindsey joins Houser for a tear-in-my-beer ballad as alcohol is called upon once again to comfort a tortured heart on “What Whiskey Does.”

The album’s standout performance comes on the heartbreaking “What Leaving Looks Like.” It’s a number that describes the moment when you realize the relationship is over for good this time. It’s a feeling Houser has felt before as he sings, “I’ve seen that door from both sides/You can’t fool me/I know what leaving looks like.”

“No Good Place to Cry” is another moving performance with Houser offering up a soulful take on finding a good place to hide after love has walked away as he sings, “And I don’t want anyone to see/And I don’t want anyone to pity me.”

Don’t fret. The album isn’t all about heartbreak. Tracks like “Whole Lotta Quit,” “New Buzz” and “Nothin’ on You” are enjoyable numbers that are sure to raise a smile or mischievous grin.

“Evangeline” brings the set to a pleasant close by declaring the need to escape the daily grind with an impromptu road trip. “If we leave right now, they’ll never even know we’re gone,” sings Houser.

Indeed, “Magnolia” is an enjoyable ride and one of Houser’s best efforts.

Clint Rhodes is the Herald-Standard music reviewer. He can be reached at clinton43@me.com.