Three new alt country tunes that will have you reconsidering what defines the country music genre

Meagre Martin – “Never Thought”
-There’s a hint of gruffness in the lead vocal here that caught my attention right away. The more I listened, I really appreciated the unique melodic structure as well. The genre blend here is really interesting; there are some chill guitars that give it a sense of adult contemporary, yet in the background the energy feels a bit like folk rock in some places. The combination has some late 19th century country vibes to it as well. The lyrics are more emotional than you might think at first blush; it’s a song about the perceptions that other people have and how they impact our self worth. It’s introspective and bright, a mature song in a way that doesn’t feel old fashioned.

Aaron Acapella – “Prairie Dogs”
-Sometimes a song comes along that’s just so good I can’t say no. I mean, I like this song… I like the harmonies and the throwback campfire cowboy song style, of course. But it’s just a sound that demands you pay attention. It’s like sitting around and NOT singing the chorus of “Home on the Range.” Everyone in the room participates. This song has that same kind cut time beat that invites everyone to tap their toes… and a melody that demands we all sing along. It’s not inherently a fun lyrical message, but I bet at the two minute mark you are smiling. It’s a song about finding a new start, complete with all of the optimism of a new beginning and a delicate piano riff at the end.

Rumour Mill – “Wild and Strange”
-If you’re a fan of folksy harmonies, you may already know the band Rumour Mill. The overall sound here gives me some Fleetwood Mac energy. The genre conventions feel like a bit of folk rock, a bit of adult contemporary, and when they said it was alt country, I couldn’t help but nod with approval. You can feel shades of country instrumentation and style, yet it’s not exactly strict country music. It’s got some alt production elements that definitely make for a unique style. It’s ultimately a song about reconciling with the concept of “home” and anyone who can write about that without calling the song “Home” (there are a million of them) is already interesting in my book. This is a good tune for your autumn playlist.

Image courtesy: Rumour Mill IG