Palomino rising

 

It’s a widely known fact that Miranda Lambert stands as one of country music’s greatest voices — of all time. In her 20+ year long career, with 9 solo albums now released not to mention her band the Pistol Annies and side projects like 2021’s The Marfa Tapes, the singer has clearly established herself as a major force in the genre. To the point of becoming one of its biggest ambassadors, surpassed only by the likes of Garth Brooks if we’re talking veteran performers and Morgan Wallen — who turns 29 today — in country’s new talent wave. Not too shabby.

The newly released Palomino is no different: for this new project, the musician is back with everything that makes her a standout creative force. For one, there is depth in everything she touches, lyrics that are imbued with stories, experiences and a real life feel to them. Which is not necessarily a given after so many years of being a global superstar, yet Lambert has somehow succeeded in keep her feet (and boots) resolutely on the ground. Second, the crisp quality of her composing as well as the performing, by herself and her trusted group of accompanying musicians, is truly remarkable.

We have grown accustomed to modern productions being spotless, but Lambert still manages to surpass herself here: virtually every song on the album, from opener “Actin’ Up” to lead single “If I Was A Cowboy” to her intriguing cover of Mick Jagger’s “Wandering Spirit” (incidentally the only song she didn’t co-write on the LP) is a bona fide country gem. All musicians involved, starting with producer and multi-instrumentalist Luke Dick, elevate these powerfully written tracks.

And then you have true moments of grace: the beautifully contemplative closer “Carousel”, with its acoustic guitar arrangements. And our personal favorite: “Geraldene”, a perfect modern nod to Queen Dolly‘s “Jolene” if there ever was one. Proof that you can still create country classics in this day and age…