CRAIG CAMPBELL

                                                                "What I Thank (When I Drank)" 

                                                                Grindstone Recordings

Craig Campbell continues to spoil fans with dozens of new songs.  Following the release of his ‘The Lost Files: Exhibit A’ album in February, the singer-songwriter and Grindstone Records label-head is set to offer another collection later this summer, headlined by his new single, “What I Thank (When I Drank)”.

Written with Wyatt McCubbin, Craig is sharing a tune that is unapologetically 90’s country, with its throwback nature, delivery, sound, and fun-loving, twangy resonance that will enthrall his current fans while garnering new admirers.  This is a head-bobber and toe-tapper from start to finish, perfectly fit for a road trip, backyard party, or a night at the line-dance club.

“If you know me, you know I love 90’s country, and when Wyatt and I wrote this, I knew immediately it had to be that kind of song,” Craig said.  “From the chicken pickin’ to the squeezebox, if this song don’t get you fired up…nothing will!”

The lyrics are craftily clever but simple in their storytelling nature, painting a picture of a night out on the town that we have all inevitably experienced, for better or for worse. 

“This barstool is getting wobbly

That dance floor is all alone

I don’t have two left feet

And I sound just like George Jones

What I thank, when I drank”

Not to state the obvious here, but, as is the case with any genre, country music has evolved over the years, incorporating elements of pop, rock, R&B, and more.  But there has been a gradual yet undeniable return to the musical fundamentals of the traditional country sound.  And while some artists have ventured into other realms of the genre, Campbell has remained true to who he is as a person, a songwriter, and an artist.  His heart lies in traditional country music.  It’s who he is and what he knows, which makes his songwriting so honest and true, and his songs relatable and irresistibly catchy.

Campbell released his album, ‘The Lost Files: Exhibit A’ in February, consisting of 16 tracks that were recorded during the course of two label deals and others he cut independently over the years.  Self-described as “unfiltered, unapologetic, and from my heart”, the collection was first represented by its first single, “Tractor Songs”.  ‘Exhibit B’ follow up release is scheduled for later this summer.

Craig has been enjoying the musical freedom and confidence to deliver the style of country music on his own terms since he launched his own label, Grindstone Records, in 2020.  Of course, he first made a name for himself on the mainstream country scene with a successful stretch of singles including “Family Man, “Outta My Head”, “Fish”, and “Keep Them Kisses Comin’”.  In addition to a few appearances at special events and festivals, Campbell will also be headlining gigs across the country this summer.

(Review Written By: Chad Carlson)

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