Lady Antebellum, ‘Compass’ [Listen]
Lady Antebellum have found a new direction for their blend of pop-flavored harmonies. 'Compass' walks into the forest of alt-bluegrass that's quickly growing in popularity. Heavy banjo and mandolin drive a foot-stomping beat as the group sings about staying true to one's heart.
The trio offers advice for the masses when they sing: "So let your heart sweetheart be your compass when you’re lost / And you should follow it wherever it may go / When it’s all said and done, you can walk instead of run / ‘Cause no matter what, you’ll never be alone."
It's not clear what darkness the band wants you to keep pushing through, but the energy and vitality that's on display work to make that something of an afterthought.
"Forgot directions on your way / Don’t close your eyes don’t be afraid / We might be crazy late at night / I can’t wait till you arrive / Follow stars you’ll be alright," Charles Kelley sings.
Comparing Kelley, Hillary Scott and Dave Haywood to Mumford and Sons may seem like a stretch, and vocally it is. However, the production that both employ is similar. That thumping bluegrass sound is on the verge of being embraced by mainstream country audiences -- perhaps 'Compass' will be the song to push it over.
Why Fans Will Love It: 'Compass' is a burst of positive energy -- a true ray of sunshine that relies on traditional country instruments.
Key Lyrics: "You want to give up cause it’s dark / We’re really not that far apart"
Did You Know?: Lady Antebellum stepped far outside the oft-used group of Nashville songwriters to find this song. The Stargate songwriting team join Robopop, Ammar Malik, Ross Golan and Emile Haynie (Eminem) to write this song. Stargate also penned a lyric about using your heart as a compass for Mariah Carey earlier this year ('Almost Home' was on the 'Oz the Great and Powerful' soundtrack), but the two songs couldn't be more different.
Listen to Lady Antebellum, 'Compass'