Donald Benjamin

In a week which saw the releases of several new tracks, by a "who's who" of artists, including Garth Brooks, one of the most ear-catching was by a breakout artist, not yet featured on the Billboard charts.

Many will remember the name. His most recent album, the acoustic "Reborn" E.P., ranked at number 13, on No Depression's "Top 500 Albums of 2014" list. Featuring the international radio hit, "Last Man Standing," as well as a swanky, acoustic rendition of Stevie Wonder's "Superstition," the album was influential in propelling this virtual unknown to a borderline household name.

Since, not much has been heard from the rising songwriter. He has been busy touring; performing across the United States, at venues such as the Hard Rock Cafe, B. B. King's Blues Club and more. For those of us waiting; wondering... We wait no more!

I was thrilled, this week, to hear about the latest effort Donald and his band have been working on. The upcoming "Southbound 75" album, set for a January release, looks to be a solid effort with an "in-your-face" dose of redneck attitude - which is exactly what you'd expect. So, when I woke to a digital copy of the album's first single, "Lies," you can be sure I wasted no time in firing up the audio.

"Lies" is a big departure from Donald's previous work. The first track/upcoming album to feature his entire band, in a non-acoustic nature, it screams with catchy riffs (banjo, nonetheless), scathing intent and oh, so much of the aforementioned attitude. Finally, in a politically- overcorrect world, where it seems the Dixie Chicks are the only ones who can "off" the famed "Earl" and get away with it, someone comes along to tell the flipside, from a broken man's point of view.

Now, while it may be controversial in today's topic of conversation, take it for what it's worth. It's the story of a man; bitter, betrayed and brooding over his lone act of heartbroken vengence - redneck style. "Lies" is catchy, imaginative and just plain fun. Donald Benjamin delves into the psyche of a man scorned, and brings out the awkward demon within us all.

Listen... and let your imagination set you free.

For what it's worth, regarding this song's release, as compared to others (including "Baby, Let's Lay Down and Dance," by Garth Brooks) released in recent days, "Lies" feels the most genuine. I can only say that, as I anxiously await the rest of Donald's "Southbound 75" album, I am assured of one thing: Donald, and his music, are certain to deliver the goods. - No Depression Magazine