on 150g White Vinyl

Appearing on Father's Day Weekend 2024, Fathers & Sons functions as something of a coda to the twin albums Growin' Up and Gettin' Old -- a record that places a premium on life's continuity by spotlighting the changing of generations. Such naked sentimentality suits Luke Combs, a country singer who always emphasizes tradition without losing sight of modern mores. With its hushed tone and unapologetic earnestness, Fathers & Sons also feels like a sequel to "Fast Car," his reverent cover of Tracy Chapman's contemporary folk classic. Combs rarely picks up the tempo over the course of these 40 minutes, yet he doesn't wallow in a melancholy mire, nor does he drift away in self-absorbed reflection. These 12 songs are sweet and sincere, balancing hopes for the future with stories that are handed down through the generations. The pivot is "Whoever You Turn Out to Be," where Combs talks about his dreams for his children and comes to the realization that it's fine if his kid doesn't wind up sharing the same tastes or lifestyles. That kind of empathy underpins Fathers & Sons, making this quiet record unusually affecting.

1        Front Door Famous
2        In Case I Ain’t Around
3        Huntin’ By Yourself
4        Little Country Boys
5        Whoever You Turn Out To Be
6        Remember Him That Way
7        The Man He Sees In Me
8        All I Ever Do Is Leave
9        Plant A Seed
10        Ride Around Heaven
11        My Old Man Was Right
12        Take Me Out To The Ballgame