Granger Smith is comfortable in his own boots through each of the 15 songs on Remington, his debut album on Wheelhouse Records. Each song is as straight as ... well, the barrel of a Remington. Fans won’t have trouble attaching themselves to a collection of mostly mid-tempo stories of love and loss.

The Texan is at his best during during songs that look back. "Tailgate Town" is a slow-building, dusty piece of nostalgia that sets roots deep before he begins the first verse. "Tractor" is the best example of how he'll hook you, and the best song on Smith’s new album. The song is the story of his late father and how he learned all about life from a seat on his Massey Ferguson 240.

“Up on that tractor / Things might be faster in the world / But big wheels rollin’ slow / Help you see what’s important / What really does matter / Up on that tractor."

Midway through, "Tractor" twists to become a circle-of-life song, and it’s there fans find a lesson to store for later. Along with his chart-topping hit "Backroad Song," these songs are arranged to highlight the natural yearning and hurt in Smith's voice. He’s not a singer that’s going to blow the straps off a pair of overalls, but he is a skilled storyteller. On Remington, he proves that again and again.

Uptempo rockers like “If the Boot Fits” and “Blue Collar Dollars” make sure the album doesn’t descend into 45 minutes of minor chords and memories. Each is as accessible as green trees and sunshine in May, but they’re presented with just the right amount of an artist’s touch.

Key Tracks: "Remington," "Tailgate Town," "Tractor," "'Merica"

Did You Know?: Smith says writing songs for Earl Dibbles Jr. is easier and more fun than writing as Granger Smith.

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