It seems odd that a songwriter of Paslay's popularity, with smash hits such as "Barefoot Bluejean Night" (Jake Owen) and "Even If It Breaks Your Heart" (Eli Young Band) (NOTE: This song was also recorded as part of Lady Antebellum's 2011 Own The Night album) has never had success as a solo artist.
With "Friday Night" Paslay has likely found his first solo hit. And he does a hell of a job with it. I found the Lady A's version to be cluttered and loud. Paslay's version is filled with prominent banjo, keeping it firmly in pop-country territory without going over the top with pop-ness.
Because of the uncluttered arrangement, Paslay's soulful voice is able to be heard. The chorus is an earworm if I ever heard one and the melody is great.
It's not a groundbreaking lyric but Paslay and his record label do a great job with what will likely be Paslay's first top 10 hit.
Grade: B+
Listen: "Friday Night"
With "Friday Night" Paslay has likely found his first solo hit. And he does a hell of a job with it. I found the Lady A's version to be cluttered and loud. Paslay's version is filled with prominent banjo, keeping it firmly in pop-country territory without going over the top with pop-ness.
Because of the uncluttered arrangement, Paslay's soulful voice is able to be heard. The chorus is an earworm if I ever heard one and the melody is great.
It's not a groundbreaking lyric but Paslay and his record label do a great job with what will likely be Paslay's first top 10 hit.
Grade: B+
Listen: "Friday Night"
