Song Review

Morgan Frazier's new single 'Hey Bully' is a neat and tidy soundtrack for an anti-bullying PSA. The singer shares a story she seems intimately familiar with, but the scattered lyrics don't quite latch on as tightly as one hopes.

Luke Bryan plays it safe on 'Crash My Party,' his new album and the follow-up to the tremendously successful 'Tailgates and Tanlines.' With the exception of the infusion of hip-hop on two songs, there is little to differentiate the two projects.

'Don't Let Me Be Lonely,' the third single from the Band Perry's 'Pioneer' album, is thematically similar to their biggest hit, but few will confuse this song with 'If I Die Young.' The latest track may not be as instantly catchy, but it's every bit the sharp songwriting effort the cut from the trio's debut album was.

The Zac Brown Band's new single 'Sweet Annie' is another vocal and lyrical showcase for the singer. The collaborative spirit that defined them early on is missing, making the ensemble sound more like Zac Brown's band instead of the Zac Brown Band.

Austin Webb's soulful new ballad 'Slip on By' will catch you off guard if you let it, and that's not such a bad idea. Webb sings a familiar, but not overdone, lesson about appreciating every moment we have on this Earth.

Buying a full album from a new artist is something like a trust fall. Typically you've heard one or two songs, leaving nine or 10 question marks. Breathe easy putting down cash for 'Bring You Back,' the debut from Brett Eldredge. The Paris, Ill.-born singer will catch you.

'I Can't Change the World' is Brad Paisley's anthemic ballad from his 'Wheelhouse' album. As a vocalist, he rarely soars like he does on this sonically complex, but lyrically simple love song. His performance as a singer and guitarist actually overshadows the strength of the song.

Luke Bryan's new single 'That's My Kind of Night' promises to be his most controversial release to date. The singer goes all-in on the country-rap style that -- despite loud objections from traditionalists -- is covering the radio like kudzu. He sounds both horribly out of place and right at home.

Cole Swindell's debut single 'Chillin' It' isn't about the words or the musicianship. It's about the vibe and the sweet groove this Georgia-raised singer lays down patiently.

'Drivin' Around Song' is Colt Ford's best chance for a radio hit, something the singer would likely be willing to shave his body hair for. Jason Aldean's chorus is smooth and memorable, and his presence on the track from 'Declaration of Independence' gives Ford superstar credibility.

Does anyone in country music sing heartbreak quite like Blake Shelton? 'Mine Would Be You,' the third single from 'Based on a True Story ...' adds to a strong collection of Shelton tracks that will rip your heart out if you don't try to protect yourself. The turn in the last verse is devastating.

On 'Crushin',' the debut single from newcomers Bush Hawg, one can't hear the "blend of backwoods, blue collars, bar fights and bibles" they describe themselves as in their artist bio. The mid-tempo love song is a generic first-timer effort that relies on a big hook instead on lyrical depth or distinctive attitude.