Lady Antebellum is back with their eighth album, “Ocean,” and it’s a collection of songs that are mostly ballads. The great part is that ballads are what this group does best.
The group wanted this album to be titled “Ocean” because the members wanted to sing about the ups and downs of life as if a person were riding a wave. They also wanted listeners to pay close attention to the track “Ocean” because of Hillary Scott’s vocals. Band member Charles Kelly believes it’s one of Hillary Scott’s best vocals – and I agree. It’s a gorgeous song that listeners should take their time with and enjoy.
“All I want is to fall in deeper,” Scott sings, “Than I’ve ever been. Why won’t you let me?”
Lady Antebellum is known for pulling at the heartstrings. Their single “What If I Never Get Over You” starts off the album. One of the songwriters on this song is newcomer Ryan Hurd. Ryan Hurd is from Michigan, and it’s cool to see him as one of the songwriters on this track.
“It’s supposed to hurt, it’s a broken heart,” Charles Kelley sings. “But to movin’ on is the hardest part.”
The second track “Pictures” is a wonderful track, but a sad song once again. The group sings about how you may look happy in pictures, but you are falling apart on the inside. Not only is the song well-written and sung well, it’s also relatable. In the age of social media, we are constantly looking at pictures and thinking a person is happy. We have no idea what is behind a smiling face or the filters people use.
“Crazy Love” sounds like it will be the first dance song at many weddings in the next year. It’s a gorgeous ballad about falling in love.
“Thank God for you,” Lady Antebellum sings, “Thank God for us. Thank God for crazy love.”
“Be Patient With My Love” is a stunning track that everyone should hear, especially if you are a fan of sappy country music. It is like looking at the ocean and seeing the waves rise and fall. It’s breathtaking and takes the listener on a journey.
“Always push until you cry,” Lady Antebellum sings. “And I just don’t know why. Tell me there’s a way to turn around on this way to goodbye.”
A track that would be perfect for country radio is “Boots.” It’s a fast song that is very catchy, and it be would a great track to roll the windows down to. “Boots" would be a wonderful song for the group to release as one of its singles next Spring.
“Mansion” is a fabulous track that would also be great for country radio. Country songs are known for the topic of wanting a simple life and just needing the one they love.
“I don’t need a mansion,” Lady Antebellum sings. “Baby, I just need you.”
This album is a beautiful album that the group should be proud of. It gets better and better with each listen, and these waves are worth the ride.
