Lucero, the renowned alt-country band hailing from Memphis, Tennessee, returns with their latest studio effort, “Should’ve Learned By Now.” Packed with raw emotion, gritty storytelling, and the distinctive raspy vocals of frontman Ben Nichols, this album solidifies Lucero’s place as one of the genre’s true pioneers. With an impeccable blend of Americana, rock, and punk influences, Lucero crafts a collection of songs that both tug at the heartstrings and ignite a fiery energy within the listener.
The album kicks off with the infectious and anthemic “One Last F,” setting the tone for what’s to come. The driving guitars and catchy chorus make it an instant standout track. “Macon If We Make It” follows suit, showcasing Lucero’s ability to seamlessly merge heartfelt lyrics with a rollicking musical backdrop. The heart-wrenching ballad “She Leads Me” brings a touch of vulnerability, with Nichols’ haunting vocals taking center stage and evoking a profound sense of longing.
Throughout “Should’ve Learned By Now,” Lucero proves their versatility as they effortlessly navigate between raucous rockers and tender ballads. “At the Show” is a high-energy crowd-pleaser, capturing the essence of the live concert experience, while “Nothing’s Alright” showcases the band’s knack for crafting powerful hooks and infectious melodies. The brooding “Raining for Weeks” is a slow-burning gem, drenched in melancholy and elevated by Nichols’ evocative storytelling.
“Should’ve Learned By Now” also offers introspective moments that allow the listener to dive deeper into Lucero’s emotional core. “Buy a Little Time” is a soul-searching track, layered with rich instrumentation and introspective lyrics that resonate long after the song ends. The title track, “Should’ve Learned By Now,” is a poignant reflection on past mistakes, featuring poignant lyrics that strike a chord with anyone who has ever experienced regret.
As the album nears its conclusion, Lucero doesn’t let up on delivering powerful tracks. “Drunken Moon” is an energetic anthem that perfectly captures the band’s signature sound, blending country twang with punk rock grit. “Time to Go Home” closes the album on a bittersweet note, offering a sense of closure and reflection as Nichols’ vocals soar over the sweeping musical arrangement.
“Should’ve Learned By Now” is a triumphant addition to Lucero’s discography, showcasing the band’s growth and maturity while staying true to their roots. With their distinctive blend of Americana, rock, and punk influences, Lucero crafts an album that resonates on both an emotional and musical level. From the infectious energy of “One Last F” to the introspective depths of “Time to Go Home,” this record solidifies Lucero’s position as one of the most compelling acts in contemporary alt-country. Fans old and new will find solace in the raw honesty and timeless songwriting that Lucero brings to the table, making “Should’ve Learned By Now” an album worth cherishing. – Jason Felton
SIMILAR | American Aquarium, Corey Branan, Drive-By Truckers, Old 97’s, Son Volt