Review
Tyler Childers' 2019 gem "Country Squire" is like a love letter to traditional country, bluegrass, and honky-tonk, all sprinkled with Childers' unique storytelling magic. With the legendary Sturgill Simpson in the producer's seat, the nine tracks—including heavy-hitters like "Country Squire," "Bus Route," and "Peace of Mind"—immerse you in an authentic Appalachian soundscape. The richness of Childers' voice paired with witty and profound lyrics really makes you feel each story he's spinning.
This album is not only a hit among fans but also a critical darling, boasting an impressive Metacritic rating of 85. It made quite the splash by debuting at No. 1 on Billboard's Top Country Albums and American/Folk Albums, selling a remarkable 24,000 traditional albums and 32,000 equivalent album units in the first week. It’s a modern classic that hits all the right notes, pairing crisp, balanced production with emotive performances, making it a can’t-miss for any country or bluegrass aficionado. - Alex
Artist Bio
Tyler Childers hails from Lawrence County, Kentucky, and his music draws heavily on his Appalachian roots, blending country, folk, and Americana sounds. He began his career releasing music in 2011 with *Bottles and Bibles*, but it was his 2017 album *Purgatory*—produced by Sturgill Simpson—that brought him broader recognition and platinum status. Known for his storytelling and gripping lyricism, Childers has released a string of well-regarded albums including *Country Squire*, the reflective *Long Violent History*, and his ambitious 2022 triple album *Can I Take My Hounds to Heaven?*. Though he hasn’t racked up major mainstream awards, his reputation within Americana circles is strong, and his live shows are lauded for their authenticity and energy. Fans of artists like Jason Isbell, Chris Stapleton, and Sturgill Simpson will find a kindred spirit in Childers' music.