The lead single “Johnny Cash” is a bit misleading in that way. It’s a nod to his success with his first album’s debut single “Hicktown.” “Hicktown” peaked at number ten on the Billboard radio charts but the song (and a fun video) left a large footprint and gave him something to really get into at his live shows.

“Johnny Cash” should have similar chart success but it’s sound isn’t really about classic country music. It’s a rock song disguised as country. It’s actually the least “country-fied” song on the CD. That’s a good thing because Aldean finds his niche on more mainstream fare on the CD like “I Use What I Got” and there’s even the feel of a Kenny Chesney ballad on “Laughed Until We Cried.” (Pictured with Aldean and MJ Colonial Center 10/7/6 )

Aldean – straight outta Macon, Georgia – has paved his way for some great stage shows. He already had a few hits and usually always steals the show when he opens for larger stars. Now he can add “Johhny Cash” (currently climbing at thirteen on the radio singles charts) to the show and there will surely be a hit slow or mid tempo mainstream smash coming. My picks: “My Memory Ain’t’ What It Used to Be” or “Use What I Got” It won’t be long before he’s headlining.

Aldean did not have a hand in writing any of the new songs but opted to try to recapture some of the first album’s magic with two John Rich cuts (actually not my favorites). His record label, the relatively small Broken Bow records, made all the right moves with the first release and will likely find the cuts that will get airplay. He has become the label’s “star act.”

Aldean fans should like the CD and might be surprised how mainstream it is. Newcomers will get turned on to someone that connects with fans and is definitely a rising star.