Montgomery Gentry, a duo consisting of Eddie Montgomery and Troy Gentry, has become one of the most identifiable duos in the history of country music. Known for their outlaw-meets- gentleman sensibilities and their energetic live performances, the duo has been making music together for over 15 years. Among the duo’s many accomplishments are 20 plus charted singles, inductions into the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame and the Grand Ole Opry, and countless CMA, ACM, and Grammy awards and nominations. Folks Like Us is Montgomery Gentry’s first album in over 3 years and their first for Blaster Records. The duo relies on their usual Southern Rock meets Country sound they’ve always had for this record, refusing to give in to the Bro Country and R&B trends plaguing mainstream radio today.The album kicks off with a standard reflective hometown anthem song, “We Were Here”. It celebrates old stomping grounds, and is sung from the point of view of mature men looking back on the marks they left on their hometowns. The main focus of the record is that of a reflective one. Both “Two Old Friends” and “That’s Just Living” follow in the footsteps of “We Were Here”, reflecting on past memories and acquaintances. But for those hoping for a few party worthy tunes, fear not! “Headlights” features electric guitar riffs and drums, but there’s a twist! The track also features a repeating banjo figure. By far, the most radio friendly song on this album, “Headlights” is all about a good time. The favorite topics throughout this record are back roads, hometowns, and good times. Most Montgomery Gentry fans will love this album, as it’s like all their other albums. One thing you can count on is the duo remaining consistent with the material they put out. I’m down the middle, I like a lot of their singles from the past, but as a whole not a huge fan.
As a whole, the album is alright, not bad, but not stellar either. The first single “Headlights” basically flopped at radio and on the charts, which is surprising considering it’s very radio friendly. The track contains all the stuff mainstream hits are currently made of. The fate of their second single, “Folks Like Us” has yet to be seen, but I doubt it will fare any better. Radio has evidently decided that anyone who was making music before 2008 shouldn’t be played on radio ever again… which is sad. I honestly think Montgomery Gentry has more to offer, better material. But we’ll probably never hear it on radio.
To Sum it up: Montgomery Gentry fans should buy this album. Everyone else? Might as well pass it by.
