EP Review - Dirt Road Therapy - Clayton Smalley

 

I couldn't help but open the ep after reading Clayton’s own words:

When I turn on the radio I want to hear the country music I grew up listening to, the music that moulded me when I was a kid, now I want to make that same country music that is a part of who I am now as a man and a musician. I feel like this EP is a step in that direction.

 Utah-based country music artist, Clayton Smalley, has teamed with hit Nashville songwriter Steve Dean for four songs on Smalley’s second EP, Dirt Road Therapy.  Having listened to the songs sent to us, it is safe to say that they have covered all occasions with a ballad to a party song.

The title track has a big bold opening that promises something good, and instantly transports you state side.  With his voice, the steel and the rest of the instrumentation, this track feels like Country Music all wrapped into one package

Phoenix Rise - a beautiful ballad take on that country favourite - loss. The pedal steel adds the drama to the talk of burning it all down and don’t look back but see what rises out of the ashes, just like the phoenix. 

Modern Day Merle is a nod to new country artists who carry on the tradition of iconic artists like Merle Haggard, who toured the country playing music for the love of music.  Great fiddle opening, it tells the tale of the singer on the road, they do what they do for the music, not the money. 

Live your life according to I Never Let A Good Time Get Away, this is a warm-up song for a night out, Friday night! Dance around whilst getting ready, you'll soon pick up the lyrics and start to feel better. Smalley's deep voice starts the record off without introduction, the guitar rules the track.

The EP features excellent song writing from Steve Dean that sets the scene with great musical interpretation. 

This is the therapy we all need!

Dirt Road Therapy, the new EP from Clayton Smalley is available now to download and stream on all major platforms

Find and follow Clayton on Facebook, his website and on Spotify