Lady Antebellum have no intention of slowing down as they introduce their sixth studio effort 747. Although the UK’s country scene may not be as widespread as it is in their home ground, we’ve come to embrace the trio thanks to crossover hits ‘Need You Now‘ and ‘Just a Kiss‘.
Having the album named after an airliner, the group set themselves a high standard and first track ‘Long Stretch of Love‘ definitely brings that sort of energy. Lead single ‘Bartender‘ follows, and if you’ve ever gone on a night out to celebrate getting over someone, this song is just that – the banjo also makes a nice accompaniment to Hillary’s country twang.
The lyrics of ‘Lie With Me‘ echo A Great Big World’s ‘Say Something‘ in asking someone to give that little bit more, yet, the track itself isn’t entirely convincing. Unfortunately ‘Freestyle‘ also falls into the same category, the band tells us to “find a little rock ‘n’ roll hallelujah” yet with outdated lyrics and one too many instruments, our finger skips to ‘Down South‘ where the group reminds us of those exceptional harmonies they’re known for. The dedication to their roots is one of the album’s lighter, cheerier moments.
As cliché as the title of ‘One Great Mystery‘ sounds, the slow ballad is both sweet and actually believable, asking that question, “What did I ever do to make you fall for me?” Definitely more likeable than the two side-by-side fillers ‘Sounded Good At The Time‘ and ‘She Is‘.
The nostalgic ‘Damn You Seventeen‘ looks back on the complexities of their young romances and seems very much the aftermath to ‘Dancin’ Away With My Heart‘. ‘747‘ finally makes its appearance at number ten, and the guitar-driven anthem seems the perfect soundtrack to Ross’ infamous pursuit of Rachel on ‘Friends‘; trying to reach her before she got on that plane. ‘Just A Girl‘ finishes off the album nicely, Hillary shakes off her man, refusing to be his booty call – you can’t help but cheer her on!
Though 747 tries to steer away from Lady Antebellum’s previous records with a set of tracks predominantly on the more lively side, it is the softer balladry which stands out – it always has been their forte. Fans are sure to remain pleased, but in the end, are maybe left wanting a classic Lady Antebellum serenade to finish it off.
