Tracy Byrd, “Better Places Than This”
Byrd’s drinking funny-man songs have become his signature over the years, with his most popular songs these days being “Ten Rounds With Jose Cuervo” and “Drinkin’ Bone.” His 2006 album Different Things showcases his ability to handle deeper and darker material, but he still finds room for his humor to shine through. As he’s getting out of the bar he’s had one too many in, he lets the bartender know he’s been thrown out of better places. He’s not talking about an uptown bar, but rather the loving woman who showed him the door.
There are some strong emotions hiding just underneath the surface here, and Byrd is able to acknowledge them without overwhelming the cocky spirit of the song. Check out the song, but I recommend the whole album. Byrd was still a kid during his big hit-making days, but he’s fully matured as an artist and is making the best music of his career.
Grade: A-
Listen: Better Places Than This
Buy:
One of the best albums of the past couple of years, and of course, country music just completely ignored it. Love this song, as well as “Saltwater Cowboy”, “Different Things”, “A Cowboy and a Dancer”, and “Cheapest Motel.” If you find this one on the discount rack, pick it up because it’s a great listen.