"The Way I Am plays like an hour of prime contemporary country radio: It hits the expected marks crisply and efficiently, sometimes even memorably."
"Combs has a honeyed rasp that commands attention, particularly since he chooses to keep his power in reserve. He's a storyteller who knows when to not telegraph a twist."
"When '15 Minutes' reveals that the titular phrase refers to the amount of time a prisoner receives for a call while serving a life sentence, Combs delivers the denouement without irony or melodrama."
The Way I Am, Luke Combs' sixth studio album, marks a return to mainstream country with polished production and familiar themes. While his previous album, Fathers & Sons, was a reflective side project, this new release is designed for radio success. The album features a mix of ballads and upbeat anthems, with songs about whiskey, love, and life experiences. Combs collaborates again with producers Chip Matthews and Jonathan Singleton, creating a clean sound reminiscent of '90s country. His storytelling shines, particularly in tracks like '15 Minutes,' where he delivers poignant twists with subtlety.
Read at Pitchfork
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