Frankie Ballard, ‘Sunshine & Whiskey’ [Listen]

‘Sunshine & Whiskey’ is Frankie Ballard’s follow-up to the chart-topping ‘Helluva Life.’ The song rides a similarly quiet euphoria. It’s catchy and easy to appreciate from the very first listen.

A few cheeky lines type a signature on the title-track from Ballard’s new album. It’s a summer love story between the singer and his “sweet Georgia peach.” The warmth of the wind blowing across the beach almost brushes one’s shoulder as his smokey tenor drives the melody. Credit producer Marshall Altman for that.

“You gave me that look, you licked them lips / I said Hang on baby, better pull over for this / I don't wanna get DWK, driving while kissing they'll put you away,” he sings during the second verse.

The verses are almost spoken-word, with the 31-year-old sounding like fellow Michigander Uncle Kracker. At the chorus his licks are more mellifluous.

“You hit me like fire, shot me like a bullet / Burned me up and down, no way to cool it / But every time you kiss me it's like sunshine and whiskey,” Ballard says at each chrous.

Ballard has a unique voice but thus far he’s found success with songs that rely on familar themes and feelings. ‘Sunshine & Whiskey’ should help him establish himself as a newcomer to watch in 2014.

Why Fans Will Love It: The time is right for an easy, carefree country groove. Ballard's new single is a good fit for summer love.

Key Lyrics: “It's like a bottle of Jack straight to the head / One shot, two shot, coppertone red / Every time you kiss me it's like sunshine and whiskey”

Did You Know?: The first album Frankie Ballard ever bought was a greatest hits package by George Thorogood and the Delaware Destroyers.

Listen to Frankie Ballard, ‘Sunshine & Whiskey’