Athens, Georgia country-folk singer/songwriter Tyler Key follows-up 2020’s Cabin Fever release with Wild Azaleas and Other Tall Tales – a polished collection of stories wrapped in a warm mix of heartland, roots, and southern rock. Wild Azaleas is rich in lyricism, each story comes from a unique character’s perspective which allows Key to express himself through a revolving cast. Key said he was trying to “write about somebody else but make it feel like you’re writing about yourself. Because that’s what empathy is. That’s how you connect to anybody.” Album highlights include: the somber murder ballad “Last Rites”; the punchy rocker “Eyes on the Prize”; the contemplative draft dodger’s tale “Wild Azaleas”; the reflective road jam “’69 Chevelle”; the anthemic fugitive’s tale “Long Run the Fugitives”; the rambling rocker “The Old Hotel”; and the poignant blue-collar tale “Wings.” Tyler Key’s Wild Azaleas and Other Tall Tales is a spirited collection of rock songs and a very satisfying listen. This album has been on heavy rotation at Record Dept. lately and will continue to do so. – Written by JFelton
SIMILAR | Ryan Adams, John Craigie, Jeremy James Meyer, Ric Robertson, TK and The Holy Know-Nothings