I've got to say hard country rock has seen some great bands in the last few decades. In the last few years we've seen the genre constantly evolving and throwing us some great artists with some incredible cross over between country, rock, metal and rap.
Nate Pennington's latest entry to the BEAT100 music charts "Southern Belle" epitomizes everything that is great about heavy country rock - Great lyrics, a strong deep voice and classic, driving rock beats. It's like Kid Rock meets Everlast meets The Chili Peppers - just a little harder; which, judging by Nate's tats and muscles, sounds about right.
The lead singer Nate Pennington has got a truly epic voice. He's somewhere between Erik Schrody (Everlast) and Anthony Kiedis (Red Hot Chili Peppers). He's got depth and power that few vocalists can even approximate. It's absolutely brilliant and his tone and drawl are simply perfect. He switches perfectly between the southern drawl and Anthony Kiedis style vocals throughout the verses and chorus; which gives him a great range and helps create a truly unique style. Few vocalists can perfect two distinct styles of vocals but Nate manages it impeccably.
In terms of lyrics these are, perhaps, even better than the music and the vocals. If you have a penchant for funny, clever and thoughtful lyrics Nate manages to tick all three boxes - despite it really being a love song at heart. The lyrics are clever, thought provoking and filled with a top level of emotion that covers the deeper thought beneath. Nate has a great sense of absolute perfect delivery and timing. So good, I’m going to give some examples;
I got a girl that knows how to get it right
Can find her way through the woods by the moonlight
A little swag with a little bit of country
A little class, with a little bit of funky
The chorus is catchy and uplifting with a sing along style and great pace. Its good old fashioned rock country fun and we love it!
Then there’s the music itself. It’s grinding, rolling rock with a very slight country edge. The guitar work is a mixture of classic rock fretwork (think GNR et al) and driving riffs. It works perfectly with Nate’s vocals and gives the song a great energy and rock vibe. The bass and drums are equally rolling. The drums in particular emphasize the lyrics perfectly – giving them some extra depth and accentuation. There’s something great about this blend of styles and the way they come together perfectly with the lyrics and vocals forming the central focus.
“Southern Belle” is a truly great song and, here at BEAT100, we’re really hoping to see great things from Nate. So go on and have a listen! Now!
