Chuck Wicks' new single 'Salt Life' buries the singer's uniquely talented voice in favor of a more spoken-word style that he introduced on 'Old School.' He's a decent storyteller, but not strong enough in that arena to not rely on his impressive high end and gift for pouring through a melody.

The song doesn't feel like Wicks' story, either. The Delaware-born and raised singer may relate to life on the beach, but it doesn't blow in like the scent of Panama Jack cooking beachside.

"Where the sun sets on tan lines / Footprints on low tides / Boardwalk band pluggin' in for the night / Party boats are tyin' up / Cabo drinks are gettin' drunk / It's all good, it's all right / Just getting high, on a salt life," Wicks sings during each chorus.

The second verse is stronger than the first, but neither puts one there on the beach with little but sunset and the next drink to worry about. "Cool breeze, palm trees / Start to feel the ease of a beer buzz and I like it / A little too much / And all I wanna do is stay right here right here with you and baby soak it up / Aww, don't you love days that end like this."

The easy groove of this song is pleasing, but overdone. Wicks doesn't add much new to savor on 'Salt Life,' a song that is far from offensive, but far from satisfying.

2 Stars
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Listen to Chuck Wicks, 'Salt Life'

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