Riley Greenhas been making waves in the country music scene since his debut single, ‘There Was This Girl' hit the charts in 2019. Known for his strong neo-traditional influences, Green has quickly established himself as a prominent figure among the new wave of country stars. We spoke to Riley recently about this new album and you can read that here.
Green's discography boasts two top 15 albums: ‘Different ‘Round Here' and 2023's ‘Ain't My Last Rodeo.' These albums have produced two top 5 singles, earning him a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim. Throw in a number of EPs, including his most recent one, ‘Way Out Here,' full of authentic sounds and heartfelt lyrics that resonate with country music enthusiasts and a number one hit with Thomas Rhett on ‘Half of Me' and you have a Country artist with the world at their feet. That momentum has only gathered over 2024 after his zeitgeist-grabbing viral hit with Ella Langley on ‘You Look Like You Love Me' and now his ‘Way Out Here' EP has been expanded into his third album, ‘Don't Mind if I Do.'
Riley Green's new album, ‘Don't Mind if I Do,' cements his status as one of country music's rising stars, blending classic country and southern rock with 90s influences. Green delivers a mix of sultry love songs, laid-back good-time anthems, and heartfelt tributes to rural life. The album shows his versatility, with a mix of emotions and moods ranging from wild romance to reflective moments. His knack for storytelling and ability to channel old-school country vibes shine through, giving the album a timeless quality.
The songs on ‘Don't Mind If I Do' can largely be grouped together in three distinct themes. The first theme I'd call ‘Songs about sexy times & good lovin.' Here Green takes listeners on a journey of love and passion, starting with ‘Waitin’ All Day.' This acoustic-driven track captures the anticipation of a night of romance, with sultry electric guitar and Green's smooth vocals creating a seductive atmosphere. ‘Worst Way' stands out as the sexiest track, oozing with pheromones and longing. Green’s rich, moody voice conveys the anticipation of a passionate night, making it a sure hit for romantic playlists.
‘Pick a Place' and ‘Lookin' Back on This' continue the theme, balancing tender acoustic melodies with southern rock energy, offering a raw yet relatable portrait of love and lust. ‘Pick a Place' is a quiet, tender and intense song built around a repeating acoustic guitar melody. Here we find Green pledging to take his love wherever it is she wants to go whilst ‘Lookin' Back on This' finds Green’s painting a picture of a man excited to spend some time with his girl. The song builds to an anthemic, expansive chorus as he sings ‘It’s looking like we’re about to make a memory that we won’t forget.’ Whoever his date is in this song better keep her head down because she will be the envy of women the whole world over!
Green also shines in the second group of songs which I'd title ‘Absent women, fishing, drinking and fun.' Tracks like ‘Damn Good Day to Leave' and ‘Good Morning from Mexico' showcase Green's southern rock influences, blending carefree vibes with catchy, sing-along choruses. The latter, with its beachy, Kenny Chesney-style feel, offers listeners a chance to escape to a sunny getaway after a toxic relationship. ‘Don’t expect me home anytime soon, I threw my passport in the pool,' Green sings, unrepentantly having a great time down south across the border! ‘Too Early to Drink' taps into retro-country, with a honky-tonk vibe reminiscent of Willie Nelson, while ‘Reel Problems,' a fun collaboration with Luke Bryan, brings a bunch of humour to the album. Here we find both singers ironically complaining about about all the problems they are facing: like having cold beers to crack and having a ten pound bass on a 7 pound line! There's a sense of irony and a boozy vibe throughout this song – the girl even leaves in verse two which is Luke Bryan’s verse! ‘Reel Problems' is a must-listen, humorous song with some classic 90s country vibes and a sense of fun throughout.
Stand-out track in this second group of songs, though, is easily ‘Alcohall of Fame,' a Brad Paisley-esque anthem. It's an instant classic, celebrating a man's legendary status in his local bar. Green paints a picture of a simple man living a simple life and there’s also a cracking time change when the chorus arrives which puts a great big smile on your face. Think ‘Friends in Low Places’ meets Brad Paisley’s ‘Alcohol’ as an influence here on this superb song. These tracks emphasise Green’s ability to craft good-time, drinking songs that are both fun and relatable.
In the third group of songs, I've titled ‘Songs about the south, family, the heart and rural life,' Green returns to his roots, delivering heartfelt odes to the south and the human heart. ‘Way Out Here' is a powerful southern anthem, embracing the rugged, self-sufficient mentality of rural America, while ‘Turnin’ Dirt' echoes Jordan Davis' ‘Buy Dirt,' focusing on hard work, faith, and family. ‘Chip off the Old Block' is a funky, nostalgic tribute to Green’s father, with twangy guitars and a catchy melody that gives it a barroom feel. But it's ‘Jesus Saves' that serves as the emotional centre-piece of the album, telling the poignant story of a down-on-his-luck man whose only solace is his faith. The tender acoustic guitars and Green's heartfelt vocals make this song a standout, built on nothing more than a plaintive fiddle, Green's rich vocals and evocative storytelling.
The album’s title track, ‘Don’t Mind If I Do,' featuring Ella Langley, is one of the few heartbreak songs on the record. Green’s rich vocals paired with Langley’s haunting harmonies create an emotional duet about regret and second chances. The album opener, ‘That's a Mistake,' also explores heartbreak, on a song filled with lessons learned and regret. These moments of vulnerability add depth to the album, contrasting with the lighter, more carefree tracks but this isn't really an album about heartbreak, it's an album about the heart filled with southern soul and some fantastic storytelling.
In ‘Don't Mind if I Do' Riley Green successfully channels the spirit of Waylon Jennings, George Jones and Merle Haggard, while adding his own southern charm and modern sensibility. This album proves that Green is more than just a rising star; he’s a true inheritor of classic country music, skilfully blending nostalgic influences with contemporary sound. From sultry ballads to rollicking anthems, ‘Don't Mind if I Do' is a testament to real country music played by a real southern gentleman, making it a must-listen for country fans everywhere.
Tracklist: 1. That’s A Mistake 2. Change My Mind 3. Reel Problems (Featuring Luke Bryan) 4. Turnin’ Dirt 5. Jesus Saves 6. Too Early To Drink 7. Pick A Place 8. Way Out Here 9. Waitin’ All Day 10. Chip Off The Ol’ Block 11. Alcohall Of Fame 12. Rather Be 13. Good Morning From Mexico 14. Torn 15. Damn Good Day To Leave 16. Looking Back On This 17. Don’t Mind If I Do (Featuring Ella Langley) 18. Worst Way Release Date: 18th October Record Label: Big Machine Label Group Buy ‘Don't Mind If I Do' right here
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