Review - Jerrod Neimann - Judge Jerrod & The Hung Jury
For years, Jerrod Niemann has had to go the route that many singer-songwriters are forced to go by their labels – singing a deal, and writing song after song for other artists. If those do well, these singer-songwriters might get their day in the sun. After writing for the likes of Garth Brooks and Jamey Johnson, Judge Jerrod and the Hung Jury is Jerrod’s chance to make his own name.
Judge is a country album, through and through. From the instruments to that signature singing style, Niemann plays well to his background, making a debut worthy of praise – and of note. While it is unmistakably country, that doesn’t mean that Niemann has made an album like all the rest; rather, he has gone out of his way to separate himself from the rest of the pack, creating his own subgenre of what seems to be the “easy-listening” version of country.
What becomes quickly apparent is that this album is far from rocking (unlike many of his counterparts). Jerrod chose to go with much more low-key tunes, so as to emphasize both his vocals and his lyrics. Debut single “Lover Lover” shows how the budding singer can create a powerful song without resorting to loud beats or overproduction. Much of the album is similar to this: simple, soft, and meaningful.
About half way through the record, Mr. Niemann also makes it clear that while this CD is his big chance, he is not taking himself too seriously. Funny skits break up song after song about alcohol – all of which make this album light-hearted and fun.
Jerrod has quite the technique, and an unmistakable style. “Do What You Want” and “Come Back To Me” keep his easy-listening style consistent. After years of working behind the scenes, Judge Jerrod finally gets to shine.
3.5 out of 5
Judge is a country album, through and through. From the instruments to that signature singing style, Niemann plays well to his background, making a debut worthy of praise – and of note. While it is unmistakably country, that doesn’t mean that Niemann has made an album like all the rest; rather, he has gone out of his way to separate himself from the rest of the pack, creating his own subgenre of what seems to be the “easy-listening” version of country.
What becomes quickly apparent is that this album is far from rocking (unlike many of his counterparts). Jerrod chose to go with much more low-key tunes, so as to emphasize both his vocals and his lyrics. Debut single “Lover Lover” shows how the budding singer can create a powerful song without resorting to loud beats or overproduction. Much of the album is similar to this: simple, soft, and meaningful.
About half way through the record, Mr. Niemann also makes it clear that while this CD is his big chance, he is not taking himself too seriously. Funny skits break up song after song about alcohol – all of which make this album light-hearted and fun.
Jerrod has quite the technique, and an unmistakable style. “Do What You Want” and “Come Back To Me” keep his easy-listening style consistent. After years of working behind the scenes, Judge Jerrod finally gets to shine.
3.5 out of 5