With the release of his self-titled debut , YouTube sensation Ben Wells is poised to be among the leaders of a refreshing trend in country music. The album is a showcase of songwriting skill and traditional instrumentation that represents a much needed return to the genre’s roots. There is a deft mix of acoustic guitar paired alongside hard driving electric and pedal steel in the 11-song collection. Relatable themes paired with infectious melodies make for an engaging and generous 47 minutes that will please both the ballad lover and the rocker allike. After performing in the church choir and gaining a large following on YouTube performing cover songs, Wells decided to test his mettle and form a band. It has paid off with a #1 rank on Reverb Nation and recent endorsements with Fireball Whiskey and JH Audio.

Song textures range from the hard core partying rocker “Get Down” to the mellow sweetness of “Daddy In Me”

Though the album evokes traces of his influences Brantley Gilbert and Jason Aldean, the sound is distinctly his own. His voice is smooth yet authoritative. The young band is a veteran of the small venue scene and sounds tight and experienced.

The album is a most welcome throwback to the days of good old rocking country music before the genre’s collision course with the pop charts and crossover stars.