Dan Smalley If I’m Being Honest Review
Dan Smalley If I’m Being Honest Review
Dan Smalley is a Country music singer that is making a name for himself. The Alaska native who came of age in Shreveport, Louisiana is gaining fans everywhere. Smalley has been working with producer Keith Stegall, known for his award-winning work with the likes of Alan Jackson and Zac Brown Band. His songwriting has caught the attention of Ashley McBryde and Dillon Carmichael. Both have included his songs on their recent albums. Smalley’s writing style is confessional, soul-baring, and with deep conviction. Smalley’s fresh take on Country music has sounds of tradition but is also inspired by the swampy sounds of his roots, the Gospel of hardwood church pews, and the impassioned delivery of R&B. He channels artists like Merle Haggard, Ray Charles, Al Green and Willie Nelson against-the-grain success of Chris Stapleton, Jason Isbell and Sturgill Simpson. If I’m Being Honest is Smalley’s debut EP out via Big Machine Records.
About the Album
If I’m Being Honest draws candidly on Smalley’s life story to deliver compelling tales of tenacity, love, and deliverance. The four-song EP is short in minutes but significant in musical moments. “If I’m Being Honest is just that,” expresses Smalley. “I write what I know, what I’ve lived, so hopefully these songs will find people who too need the real, the forgiveness, and the gratefulness.” The band is outstanding and the recording quality is clear and balanced. Together with Smalley’s smart country sound, this is something special.
Our Favorite Tracks
“Till Country Comes Back” has a swaggering country beat, banjo, and slide guitar. Smalley’s singing is a mixture of old and new, his slight country draw is authentic. The chorus is very catchy, and the lyrics will sink in and grab your emotions. The guitar solo is musical and fits the mood. The song form has all the little details that make a great song. Some of the details are the varied instrumentation of acoustic and electric sounds, a modern country beat and of course, a great singer.
“Rich and Famous” has a rowdy country shuffle with excellent chicken pickin’ guitar. The lyrics are authentic, and the melody is a definite earworm. Smalley’s voice is always in control, and he has a smooth timbre that will provide hours of listening pleasure. The band is supportive, energetic, and always aware of Smalley’s vocal line. This is a seriously good country song.
In Conclusion
There is nothing better than a country artist that instills their roots in their tunes. Smalley’s small-town authenticity is dripping with genuineness. His soulful renderings easily communicate his storied songs with conviction and charm. If I’m Being Honest is a worthy listen throughout.
Dan Smalley
If I'm Being Honest
Big Machine Records, LLC
March 20, 2020