Review
Ernest's "Flower Shops" arrives like a gentle breeze through the screen door, carrying with it the kind of honest storytelling that makes country music feel like home. The album's crown jewel, that platinum-selling duet with Morgan Wallen, sets the tone perfectly - it's tender, raw, and absolutely magnetic. Working alongside producer Joey Moi, Ernest has crafted something that feels both polished and wonderfully authentic, like finding a perfectly worn leather jacket that fits just right.
The beauty of this collection lies in how Ernest weaves together threads of folk and world music into his country foundation, creating something that feels both familiar and fresh. Songs like "Some Other Bar" and "Feet Wanna Run" showcase his ability to capture those universal moments of heartache and restlessness that we all know too well. His voice carries a distinctive warmth that draws you in, making each track feel like a conversation with an old friend who's been through it all.
Following up his earlier work "Locals Only," Ernest has clearly found his stride with this release. The album's climb to number 12 on the country charts speaks to its genuine appeal, but more importantly, it demonstrates Ernest's growth as both a songwriter and performer. There's something refreshingly honest about how he approaches themes of love and longing - no pretense, just pure, unfiltered emotion that resonates long after the music stops playing. - Maggie
