Album Review: RaeLynn’s ‘WildHorse’
RaeLynn's life has changed dramatically since her reality-television days, including a marriage and a record label change, all of which and more she documents on WildHorse.
Fans have been waiting for RaeLynn’s debut album ever since she first appeared on the country music scene as a contestant on The Voice in 2012. The “God Made Girls” singer’s life has changed dramatically since her reality-television days, including a marriage and a record label change, all of which and more she documents on her coming-of-age album, WildHorse.
“This album contains songs I’ve written over the last four years, from when I was 18 to 22” RaeLynn shares. “So I like to think of it as my college record. The person you are as a freshman is very different from who you are as a senior and in these four years, I’ve gone from a teenager who moved to Nashville, to writing and recording an album and getting married.”
Producers and co-writer contributors, Nicolle Galyon and Jimmy Robbins, blend RaeLynn’s undeniably country voice with pop-themed production to create a fresh sound all her own. She is a featured writer on 11 out of 12 tracks on the project, showing off her ability to create catchy melodies while telling her own story.
The autobiographical title track sets the tone of the record as RaeLynn is unapologetically herself in this cut and throughout the entire track list. “WildHorse” is destined to be the theme song for the Texas native’s female fans as they relate to the poppy tune with the confidence-boosting message.
“Diamonds” is a love song for her husband, Josh Davis. “A diamond is just a diamond until you put it on the right left hand,” the chorus sings. The intimate track is light and airy, making it fun to sing along with. Label mates Dan + Shay make a guest appearance on fellow love song, “Say.” Both parties take turns providing harmonies and taking choruses for this ballad and the result is magical.
On the contrary, RaeLynn also uncovers the complications of relationships on the album in tracks “The Apple,” “Lonely Call,” “Trigger” and “Graveyard.” The latter stands out for its interesting sound and unforgettable imagery. The premise of the track is she’s burying her heart because of someone that broke it, a gripping concept on such a common situation.
“Young” is sure to be a fan-favorite and potential follow-up single. The live-while-we’re-young mentality shines through and is relatable to her audience that is deciphering the in-between of figuring it all out and having it all together.
The lead single from WildHorse, “Love Triangle,” is the focal point of the record and stands out among the rest for its clever play on words and brutal honesty about a tough reality. “Love Triangle” is country music storytelling at its finest and country radio is better because of it.
Overall, RaeLynn’s WildHorse serves as a standout debut and was well worth the wait.
WildHorse is available at digital retailers now.
