February 2017 – Country Universe

Artist Spotlight: Barry Zito

February 28, 2017 Sam Gazdziak 4

The latest crossover into country music comes by way of Barry Zito, the Cy Young Award-winning pitcher for the Oakland A’s and San Francisco Giants.

Album Review: Little Big Town, The Breaker

February 26, 2017 Kevin John Coyne 10

The Breaker is a top-notch collection of songs that yearn for a unifying sound.

Album Review: Alison Krauss, Windy City

February 24, 2017 Kevin John Coyne 10

The first great album of 2017 has arrived, as Alison Krauss returns from a long hiatus with a stunning collection of standards.

Single Review: Florida Georgia Line, “God, Your Mama, and Me” (featuring Backstreet Boys)

February 21, 2017 Kevin John Coyne 8

To participate in a Florida Georgia Line record is to voluntarily lower yourself so you can fit in with them.

2017 ACM Award Nominations

February 17, 2017 Kevin John Coyne 10

The nominations have been announced for the 2017 Academy of Country Music Awards.

Single Review: Blake Shelton, “Every Time I Hear That Song”

February 15, 2017 Kevin John Coyne 5

It’s all drum machines and processed vocals and synthesizer sounds.

Single Review: Keith Urban featuring Carrie Underwood, “The Fighter”

February 14, 2017 Kevin John Coyne 15

The chorus of this record is fantastic.

2017 Grammy Winners

February 12, 2017 Kevin John Coyne 19

Here are the winners of this year’s Grammy Awards, which included Vince Gill, Sarah Jarosz, Joey + Rory, Lori McKenna, Maren Morris, Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton, and Sturgill Simpson.

Sunday Selections: February 12, 2017

February 12, 2017 Jonathan Keefe 4

On abbreviations.

2017 Grammy Awards: Staff Picks & Predictions

February 11, 2017 Kevin John Coyne 2

In preparation for tomorrow’s award ceremonies, here are the staff picks and predictions for the 2017 Grammy Awards.