The Band Perry - Pioneer

Wow! That was my reaction after opening the new album from The Band Perry and listening to just the first two tracks. Just wow! Those first two tracks, "Better Dig Two" and "Done" also comprise the first two singles released from this, their sophomore effort, Pioneer. The two tracks are up tempo, fun and just in-your-face-raucous. With Pioneer, The Band Perry have given us a solid and enjoyable record with just enough of a pop sound to provide for the Nashville crossover strategy, however, it does so without compromising the true art form that is country music; storytelling.

The Band Perry first hit the scene in 2009. The three siblings hail from Mississippi, Alabama and finally Tennessee so their country roots have grown deep and are well-watered. They hit country radio with their first single "Hip to My Heart." I recall playing it for a minute or two but their second single, "If I Die Young" cemented their stay on the charts as it became their first number one single. They have also won both new artist categories for the CMA and ACM organizations. All told, The Band Perry to date has released seven singles; 3 of those seven have gone on to reach number one on the singles chart. Having 50% (almost…so far) of released music reach the top of the charts is a tremendous feat and it does not appear that The Band Perry is going anywhere but to the top anywhere soon.

Pioneer is a terrific blend of country, rock and pop that flows together easily. There is nothing that feels terribly out of place for this group. The production is top-notch with great care given to the mix of vocals to instrumentation; nothing feels or sounds overpowering; nothing feels "klugy" or out of place to the ear. Kimberly delivers solid, powerful and effortless vocals. Her lyrical voice is such a good fit in style and emotion during the ballads and ramps up to great energy and heights during the up tempo numbers. Brothers Neil and Reid are excellent musicians. The three of them go together so well; it must be the sibling thing. They are on the same page in every aspect of this record. The aforementioned first two tracks are great songs that are radio-friendly and presented with tremendous energy and passion. Other favorites on the album include the sweet and endearing title track, "Pioneer." The strong, independent "I'm a Keeper" and the Mother's Day themed "Mother Like Mine."

Call me a fan of The Band Perry. In the country music world of today…dominated by a pop-ish sound…these three have not strayed far from the art form of country music and its great ability to tell a story and consume the listener on a great emotional and sometimes spiritual level. Pioneer displays great discipline in staying true to themselves and their roots of country music, but it also allows them to leverage the strength of the country music brand and still invite others into the fold. Pioneer is not just a record name but a fine example from The Band Perry in demonstrating great ability to forge a path for the music industry to follow.