Album Review – Keith Urban’s “Graffiti U”
If you’re 17-years-old, can’t wait to get out from under the repressive regime of your parents house, and generally hate country music, Keith Urban’s new album Graffiti U is right for you. Only by the grace of Walker Hayes and the scourge of his music still infecting the populous like a puss-inducing venereal outbreak can we stop short of declaring Graffiti U the worst “country” music album ever unleashed for human consumption since historical stats of such kind were first ascribed.
Holy shit this album’s bad. It’s almost as if in a calculating and maniacal obsession, Keith Urban and his legion of SIXTEEN producers set out on a purposeful mission to make the worst country album they could. You don’t just swerve into achieving this level of cultural depravity and creative suckitude accidentally. After listening to Graffiti U, it would take strong convincing that Keith Urban isn’t outright trolling true country fans, from the disturbed use of Merle Haggard’s “Mama Tried” guitar riff in Urban’s opening track “Coming Home,” to ripping off the sainted Don Williams’ “Tulsa Time” with a track called “Texas Time,” all the way to the confusing hip-hop mush mouth blather at the end of the album’s idiotic hidden track.
Keith Urban’s last record Ripcord was declared the most non-country “country” album in history by Saving Country Music. At this point, it’s not even fair to declare Keith Urban country at all. Instead, what Graffiti U symbolizes is the first ever true monogenre album. It grabs for anything and everything it can for mass appeal and throws it in the hopper, sometimes with individual songs sliding in and out of styles three or four times, sometimes even mid verse. The sheer dexterity it displays in this pursuit would be commendable itself if it weren’t so confusing and busy, with no respect for space, while refusing to deliver anything even resembling a cohesive style. If anything disqualifies Graffiti U as the first honest to goodness monogenre record, it would be there’s not enough country in it to count that as an integrated influence.
We talk about certain mainstream country artists growing old with their music, like we’ve seen with Tim McGraw, and even Blake Shelton recently. This decision doesn’t have to be at the expense of commercial aptitude as some in the music industry love to portray. Often, the approach results in a second wind or a career rebirth. But with Keith Urban, he’s doing an about face from his biological clock. Starting with the stupid cover where he’s trying to portray some angsty 20-something club rat ripped on designer drugs, you can tell that Keith who recently turned 50 is far from ready to embrace the onset of maturing adulthood. He’s fighting it tooth and nail.
Urban’s obsequious obsession with youth on Graffiti U at times veers from the outright deranged to the borderline predatory. You first assume the stupid ‘U’ in the title is some bid for urbanized hipness, but it more aptly stands for “University” since this record directly targets early 20-somethings. There’s a song on here called “Drop Top” featuring Kassi Ashton who is quite literally half of Keith Urban’s age, which unfurls like a police report transcription of a date rape at Coachella. His song “Horses” with Lindsay Ell (whose nearly half Urban’s age as well) would actually be a decent song, but with lyrics like, “So just let your horses run, to the limit like never before, let’s be lost and young…“ it’s clear Keith Urban is outright delusional about how the circle of life works.
You’re 50-years-old Keith Urban. 50 YEARS OLD. Stop it! Embrace the aging process for crying out loud. Your 50s are a great era in life. Yet Graffiti U slavishly tries to keep Urban relevant to some ultra hip demo with things like a ridiculous pseudo beat-boxing collaboration with Shy Carter, “My Wave.” I’m blown away folks are letting Urban off the hook for emulating the rhythm and spirit of “Tulsa Time” by Don Williams in “Texas Time.” Listen Urban, we already have enough Texas Tech dropouts in backwards baseball caps singing odes to the Lone Star State as it is. This shitty attempt to add something resembling “country” to the Graffiti U track list is tasteless.
And you almost forget that Keith Urban started this whole Graffiti U album release cycle off by cutting and releasing the incredibly demeaning and opportunistic single “Female.” This album just keeps on giving when it comes to things to be insulted and appalled by. Women still can’t catch a break on country radio, but they give us Keith Urban braying about how beautiful and special women are in a mawkish song fit for a Scott Baio 80’s after school movie.
It’s not that Keith Urban is a no talent-having son-of-a-bitch. He proves in moments on Graffiti U he can still rip guitar, like on the song “Gemini,” and the final track “Steal Your Thunder”—if you like that John Mayer, Steve Vai style of twang-deprived super-rock wankoffedness. The guy can sing too, but who cares when he’s singing about subjects he has no business broaching, like girls in tight jeans at freaking Coachella.
Keith Urban needs to grow up. Sure, the baseline for his career was never incredibly country in the first place, but what we’re seeing here is an abomination of the country genre, and an embarrassment for Urban himself. You can’t tell me that when he was touring Australia with Slim Dusty in the mid 90’s, or taking “But For The Grace of God” to #1 in 2000, this was the future he envisioned for himself.
Good gosh Keith Urban, have some dignity.
Two Guns DOWN!
– – – – – – – – – –
Taff Martin
May 5, 2018 @ 8:21 am
got to 8 seconds, didn’t even hear his voice before stopping play!
Enough sad.
Lisa
May 5, 2018 @ 10:33 pm
I believe he made his start as a bombshell rocker in the early 90’s which was DOA (some say he was trying to emulate Daniel Johns /Silverchair.
Ryan Dillow
January 13, 2019 @ 8:31 am
I think you AND the writer of this horribly inaccurate article need help. You are so far off base with this it isnt even funny. Go write about something you know…….if there is such a thing
Anthony
May 5, 2018 @ 8:32 am
Theres 2 things that I really believe about this Keith Urban the last couple years. 1. I think he genuinely does want to make this style of music. Lets face it, Keith Urban has always been Pop. And this is just a modern version of that, I don’t think that is where thr comercial catering comes in for him. Butt, the bigger change to me is the lyric content. And that is where I think Keith has changed in an attempt to, like you said, potray this youthful living on the edge image to try to speak to that demographic.
DJ
May 5, 2018 @ 8:34 am
LOL, you go Trigger. I won’t even watch the video. What you’re describing is what happens to people who live in small bubbles. Expectation is greater than realization
Derek Sullivan
May 5, 2018 @ 8:38 am
Is it just me or does he look like Billy Ray Cyrus on the album?
We talk about all the new up and comers who aren’t country but work their way on country radio. They are annoying but for the most part Walker Hayes and Kane Browm will come and go.
Keith Urban songs still dominate the radio, he gets CMA and ACM nods which could go to deserving country artists. He gets to perform on the show when acts like Brothers Osborne get short-changed or ignored.
You can make a case that no one has done more damage to country music in more ways at least that Urban in recent years. While he should be mocked and sent the old folks home by the industry, he still dominates it. This album will have five singles. This album will have No. 1s. Urban will get nominations and fill arenas.
This is bad guys and it’s getting worse and it’s not going away.
Trigger
May 5, 2018 @ 9:13 am
Keith Urban really did creep up on us as a musical scourge. We thought he was just a pop country guy who would slowly drift away. Now all of a sudden he’s challenging for the worst country music has to offer.
Ellen
May 5, 2018 @ 1:41 pm
TRIGGER
KEITH URBAN HAS BEEN MAKING “MUSIC” FOR 25 YRS.
HIS MUSIC IS HIS PASSION-HIS PASSION IS HIS MUSIC.
GO FIND YOURSELF A “REAL” STORY. THIS IS NOT NEWSWORTHY
albert
May 5, 2018 @ 3:28 pm
Like almost every article here Ellen , this one IS important and ‘newsworthy ‘. There are so many amazingly gifted country-music dedicated unknowns struggling to be ” keepers of the flame ” who have far better material than we’ve ever heard from the KU camp . There are also some incredibly talented and gifted pop acts ….strictly POP using all of the current trendy technology and software to create a new soundscape ….some are successfully adventurous .
Then there is KU . Unfortunately Keith Urban is in neither of these camps . His lyrics are trite and immature , repetitious and redundant , weak and hastily constructed…… his music is generic non-descript non-country non-pop and tries to rip off from any and every HONEST GENRE it CAN ( EXCEPT real COUNTRY ) and his image borders on embarrassing to watch . HE’S 50 trying to look and sound 15 . The only thing missing from his get-up is a skateboard .
But the saddest part of all of this shit is that he and Blake and several others COULD be making the most incredible music of their lives if they weren’t so foc ussed on chasing kids to pad their bank accounts and make them FEEL relevant .
At least McGraw throws us a bone once in a while as if winking to say ” Yeah …I know half of this stuff is just nursery rhymes for the mindless demographic that pays the mortgage …..but here’s a good ‘un for the folks who are really paying attention “. Urban , on the other hand , is a Peter Pan rock wannabe who hasn’t had an original sound or song idea in years and makes no effort whatsoever to GROW UP and BE AN ARTIST .
Yes indeed Ellen …these articles ARE important in terms of making us aware of why Keith Urban ISN’T . He’s the musical equivalent of a Marvel comic book super-hero …..he’s got the costume , – the tats , the work boots , the three day growth and the ripped construction site T-shirt -… but his superpowers only exist in the minds of the minions who actually BELIEVE in super-heroes.
If you want to see and hear a REAL super hero , you’re looking for Willie Nelson .
K.Blevins
May 7, 2018 @ 5:44 am
You have never seen Keith Urban live. He does not just play guitar, he can play any instrument. How old are you?As old as ancient history? Keith is so talented, he writes his own music , and each concert is based on the feel of the crowd. No two shows are the same
Who made you the expert? Not…Keith Urban is the best in all genres of music. His music sets the tone for country. I have been to a lot of country concerts and rock, no one is better than Keith Urban!!!!
albert
May 8, 2018 @ 4:05 pm
I’m older than dirt , Kevin …but all that should mean to you or anyone is that as a music lover , writer , teacher, performer and producer for my entire working life , I have heard it ALL .
I’m not contesting or contradicting your assertion that in concert Urban delivers a great show . THAT is not the issue here .
All we are saying ( for the elleventy hundredth time ) is that the man is NOT writing , recording , singing or performing COUNTRY music .
Ryan Dillow
January 13, 2019 @ 8:34 am
It mustt be difficult. Having a articulate vocabulary but having factual to use it on
Tyrone
May 5, 2018 @ 7:00 pm
Calm down, aging soccer mom. You don’t have to yell.
Christian Calderas
May 6, 2018 @ 9:42 pm
Lmao good one
Chris
May 5, 2018 @ 10:51 pm
Caps lock key stuck?
racer53
May 6, 2018 @ 10:12 am
Ellen
We’re passionate about music too! Keith’s new album is NOT country. It shouldn’t be played on country radio, shouldn’t be on country charts, and shouldn’t be eligible to win country awards. Yet it is. There in lies the problem. On the brighter side Hellbound Glory just put out a new album!
Olivia Penrod
September 20, 2018 @ 9:07 am
Not to be rude… I am a college student, a music major, and I love Graffiti U. Country music styles have been changing since country music began. I think that we shouldn’t try to live in the past and expect every artist to create the same kind of music for his/her entire life. It’s not fair to put limitations on musicians. If a musician wants to blend country and pop then let him do it! Who cares what genre it’s put in to. It’s still music. I admire Keith Urban for experimenting with different sounds…that is the mark of a true musician. Plus, he’s doing a way better job of it than most country-but-going-pop artists these days… And finally, to the people who complained about him seemingly trying to hang on to his youth…who doesn’t? There is nothing wrong with not wanting to be old lol. I think Keith Urban is incredibly talented musician and I support him all the way.
Richard Ellison
May 5, 2018 @ 2:18 pm
he looks like Miley Cyrus with stubble
Susan Keehn
May 5, 2018 @ 6:20 pm
Basing talent on looks is like basing perfume by the pretty bottle only. Sadly, your comment stinks too.
Ryan Dillow
January 13, 2019 @ 8:33 am
And you are an immatue fool
Gina
May 5, 2018 @ 8:47 am
Yeesh. Tha sad thing is that he does have talent but he’s just been so bad these last years.
GrantH
May 5, 2018 @ 8:56 am
I saw the title and the cover artwork and immediately thought, “How did I get transported back to 2002?”
albert
May 5, 2018 @ 7:35 pm
……..quite the ‘country’ looking photo and album title isn’t it ?…looks like a stalker lurking in the shadows ……wtf..?
C
May 5, 2018 @ 9:24 am
I think he is obsessed with trying to be the voice of a generation. He must think a hell of a lot of himself if he thinks he can push the genre so much in an attempt to speak to a younger audience. It’s like he thinks he is John Mellencamp or Tom Petty and is trying miserably hard at it but is failing. It’s becoming absolutely ridiculous. He isn’t pushing the genre, he is doing exactly what everyone else is doing.
Raymond
May 5, 2018 @ 9:26 am
I will say I like Kassi Ashton and she seems really talented imo.
Trigger
May 5, 2018 @ 9:30 am
We shouldn’t judge any of these young ladies based off their collaborations with Keith Urban. Probably the worst stuff they will do in their career.
Raymond
May 5, 2018 @ 12:04 pm
I agree. She’s honestly the best part of this album and she seeems very talented. I think she could be a star
My name? No, your name
May 9, 2018 @ 11:53 pm
*he has done duets with several great female singers who didn’t get very far afterwards..Katrina Elam, and Emily West for example. Maybe he is a curse?
Aggie14
May 5, 2018 @ 9:27 am
At least Taylor Swift had the decency to abandon Nashville and the country scene when her music became true pop. Urban continues to market under the country genre when this is easily his third straight pure pop record. What a sham.
And the song “Texas Time” is the most misleading song title ever!
Tara Danielle
May 8, 2018 @ 10:28 am
Because he knows he’s too old for pop.
Strait Country 81
May 5, 2018 @ 9:53 am
Why are you even giving this Bitch! the time of day?
Kevin Davis
May 5, 2018 @ 10:02 am
Yes, I would have never imagined that Urban would have become this scourge in the genre. I was never much of a fan, but he seemed fairly harmless. And then that damn Ripcord album came out, and, in his red carpet appearances, he started looking more and more ridiculous for a grown man. I’m sure we’ll hear about how he’s the nicest guy in Nashville. And, for all I know, he could be, but — per Derek’s comment above — he is doing more damage to the genre than anyone, thanks to his influence after decades as a country music celebrity. God help us.
I honestly thought Ripcord would be the low point of his career — a sort of one-off, midlife crisis thing. I was horribly wrong, and I also never imagined what I’m hearing on “country” radio right now. So, we can’t even say that this will be the worst of what’s to come.
Ken
May 5, 2018 @ 10:10 am
If you had a couple of teenagers singing that song it would be a reasonable summer pop song but we don’t have a couple of teenagers doing it. Urban is actually old enough to be a grandfather to a teenager. He should know better.
Jim L.
May 5, 2018 @ 10:43 am
Sounds just like his last name. Couldn’t make it past the 2nd song. All this is good for is testing how much bass your speakers can handle. What a fucked up mess!
Marc
May 5, 2018 @ 10:51 am
Sounds like an old Rick Springfield song….
Marky Mark
May 5, 2018 @ 2:04 pm
Rick Springfield is better (I am saying that with a straight face).
William Sloan
May 6, 2018 @ 11:22 am
Do you still perform with the Funky Bunch?
Marky Mark
May 6, 2018 @ 1:42 pm
i am older now, can’t rock the underwear the same way. Now we are called Marcus Mark and the Arthritic Bunch,
Kyle
May 5, 2018 @ 11:01 am
How about you clean this crap out of your ears and review the Hellbound Glory Streets of Aberdeen that came out?
Trigger
May 5, 2018 @ 11:22 am
I may review that album, but I already reviewed many of those songs and recordings when it was released as “LV” back in 2014.
Louise
May 5, 2018 @ 11:09 am
Y’all are crazy. I love the album. Keith Urban is the only male country singer I listen to.
Jim L.
May 5, 2018 @ 11:12 am
Can you please tell us how old you are?
Colter
May 5, 2018 @ 11:44 am
Which actually means you don’t listen to any male country singers
Glen
May 5, 2018 @ 2:11 pm
He’s not a country singer though! This is not country music! His “music” is ridiculous bullshit.
Jackie Treehorn
May 5, 2018 @ 10:07 pm
Please revise your comment and take the word “country” out of it. It’s clear that you have no understanding of what that word actually means Louise.
Ulysses McCaskill
May 7, 2018 @ 1:49 am
You’d be wise to use the term “country singer” loosely to describe Keith Urban, and even more wise to cut out the “male” part. I don’t think Keith is really a man. No self-respecting adult male would go full Justin Bieber and embarrass himself like this.
Jim L.
May 5, 2018 @ 11:11 am
The cover art should have been a warning… he is slyly giving us all the finger.
Susan Keehn
May 5, 2018 @ 11:35 am
I adore Keith Urban. He is always trying and succeeding in being a well rounded entertainer as well as an exceptionally talented musician. In a time when most music is thoughtless, incoherent rambling, Keith Urban puts his heart and soul into his music. It shows, and he wins awards because he IS the real deal. Anyone who dislikes him is in the minority.
Hillbilly
May 5, 2018 @ 1:02 pm
He’s the real deal what?
King Honky Of Crackershire
May 5, 2018 @ 5:16 pm
“Anyone who dislikes him is in the minority.”
Coincidentally, also in the minority, are folks with IQs over 115.
North Woods Country
May 6, 2018 @ 8:24 pm
If popularity was an indication of quality America wouldn’t be the laughingstock of the art world.
My name? No, your name
May 9, 2018 @ 11:58 pm
No kidding! Look at what is popular in this country….angry young men cussing and denigrating women, (rap) city boys singing about tailgates and tractors (bro country) and for God’s sake the Kardashians are still on t.v.!!!!
Sylvie
May 15, 2018 @ 5:48 am
To North Woods Country:
(Funny that you have the word “country” in your nickname).
If popularity was an indication of quality America wouldn’t be the laughingstock of the art world.
(By the way, I do not like Keith Urban at all, musicly, I admire everyone who gets off drugs, but since there are billions of them, he is just one of that bunch).
If the Untied States are the laughing stuck of the world, it is for many things.
Although this is the only article I will write here, here is what is posted on my Facebook wall concerning something that has nothing to do with Keith’s latest album, but as it is often the case, the posts on Trigger,s blogs go very often in every way possible…
TEXT
WRONG TERMS MADE BY WAY TOO MANY PEOPLE – UNITED STATIENS OR NON UNITED STATIENS.
“America / Americans” when talking about United States and United Statiens/ United Statians.”
“African American”. Not all Africans are blacks, nor their ancestors, and they are not all Americans,talking about any of the 35 countries that do make the American continents as a whole, sole and unique America.
The term should be “Black United Statiens”
NOTE: Also, most United Statiens, when they think about their country only see the Continental United States, ALWAYS leaving / forgetting that both Alaska and Hawaii are as much official States as the States in the Continental United States.
Narrow-minded ?
Or way too blind by patriotism ?
Lack of education ?
Lack of reality ?
All these above make most United Statiens’ mentality. (Thank goodness, NOT all United Statiens are false patriotism, I find many that do agree and think that these mentionned above are right).
Instead of taking a few mainutes to try to understand these points of view, these facts, RIGHT AWAY, these people will reply “What?”
Not even taking the time to try to understand what this all says.
That is how patriotism blinds people, we have to take the time to understand – even if we do not agree – what the other’s point of view is…
Sylvie.
NOTES: I’ve mentionned this a million times….
The Toronto Blue Jays are in the Americam leage. Toronto has never been a United Statien city.
In New York City, there is The Avenue of the Americas, with an “s” at the end of the word, saying and proving (do United Statiens REALLY need any proof of this?) that there is more than one single and sole “America”.
Ulysses McCaskill
May 7, 2018 @ 1:32 am
Color me part of the proud and sane minority.
KSU
May 5, 2018 @ 11:43 am
Dude should pull a T Swifty and say he’s pop. But that probably wouldn’t work, since pop radio doesn’t like 50 year old Australians. So he stays with the country format, where he knows he can make money. His wife should bitch slap him.
Gloria
May 5, 2018 @ 11:48 am
You guys make me laugh! Telling Keith to get some dignity is one funny part! You guys add comments that are disgusting and undignified and tell Keith to grow up! What a joke! If you people were to be the only people who could tell the rest of the world what to listen to I would give up on music all together ! Thanks for the laugh though! Think I will go listen to a fantastic album called Graffiti U! Carry on with your so called reviews. Some that I know my pet could do better!
Tyrone
May 6, 2018 @ 12:18 pm
Don’t you have a book club meeting to go to?
the pistolero
May 7, 2018 @ 1:55 pm
That would imply reading, which would imply literacy. Which is highly questionable.
Tyrone
May 7, 2018 @ 1:57 pm
Lol, fair enough.
Marni Schulz
May 5, 2018 @ 11:55 am
You people have no taste. Album is awesome. So shut up.
Tyrone
May 6, 2018 @ 12:19 pm
You tell em Marni, they’re just all jealous haterz
Vickie
May 5, 2018 @ 12:07 pm
Why is everyone like to say such negative things. I love Keith Urban and if you don’t then quit listening quietly.
Fran
May 5, 2018 @ 12:57 pm
I agree and thanks
Jim L.
May 6, 2018 @ 12:06 am
You’ve obviously stumbled across this site by accident.
Dooley
May 5, 2018 @ 12:20 pm
What’s the added value of reviewing an album/artist who has long since moved away from anything close to country? Is it naivety to hope that an album that was never expected nor even indicated of being country to suddenly hold some hidden country-gems or is it simply jumping on the fat chance of slamming an artist and baiting clicks by doing so?!
Wasted time and effort.
Trigger
May 5, 2018 @ 1:07 pm
There are many reasons to review a record like this. First, as you said, you might find something of value. That certainly has happened with records from people like Blake Shelton, Brad Paisley, Tim McGraw, and others we may have thought were done, but proved us wrong. The second is that I believe strong, healthy criticism is critical to the creative marketplace. If all you have is journalists writing puff pieces for artists, who will challenge them to be better? Third is the whole point of reviews is to give an encapsulation of your opinions so help consumers make choices of what to spend their time and money on. In my opinion, this is a project to be avoided. In turn, this props up all the other projects that come recommended. And fourth, as a country music fan, I enjoy sharing my opinions with others. I think it enhances the listening experience, even when it comes to music considered negatively.
Nothing about this article is baiting clicks. The title is as Plain Jane as you can get. That said, posting reviews of big pop country names is a good way to expose listeners to differing viewpoints, and then present them with alternatives.
Marni Schulz
May 5, 2018 @ 1:39 pm
Trigger is just jealous. Keith Urbam is hugely talented in everything music. He is a good human being and a great example to everyone. So Trigger go back to the bitter place you came from and shut it.
Graffiti U is awesome.
Jim L.
May 5, 2018 @ 3:03 pm
He needs to stop claiming to be a country artist.
Queen
May 5, 2018 @ 9:56 pm
Actually, if you research this, he REFUSED to categorize this album… So, he is NOT calling it “Country”, everybody else is. Is he NOT allowed to explore “music”?
Trigger
May 5, 2018 @ 10:15 pm
Awesome, I guess that means he will refuse to be played on COUNTRY radio, turn down any nominations for COUNTRY awards, refuse to play COUNTRY awards shows, and take any videos off of CMT.
Pierre Brunelle
May 5, 2018 @ 3:33 pm
Your taste is different and I respect that but it’s not country.
RWP
May 5, 2018 @ 8:41 pm
Haha there’s the “you’re just jealous” hit.
malea stevens
May 6, 2018 @ 12:11 pm
WAY 2 GO ELLEN!!!! THESE PEOPLE HAVE NO IDEA WHAT KIND of AWESOME AWESOME ARTIST THIS MAN IS! THEY ALSO DON’T KNOW WHAT GOOD MUSIC IS!!! THEY DON’T KNOW ANYTHING ABOUT genres of music!!! I think if you want to hear there is a tear in my beer old outdated country music listen to it!!!! Don’t be downing KEITH URBAN!!!!! JUST BECAUSE HIS NEW ALBUM IS AWESOME!!!! MAL
Teresa Kimberlin
May 6, 2018 @ 6:21 pm
I so totally agree malea. This is the new country. Haggard and Twitty are dead and most of their music too. I ain’t crying in my beer cause I don’t drink. I want music I can move to. Urban cleaned up at CMT awards and an ACM this year. If you want to Drink too much and sit on your bar stool play that old sad stuff. Urban can do either but chooses to move his fans off the bar stool.
Ulysses McCaskill
May 7, 2018 @ 1:36 am
You and Teresa are either teenage girls or middle aged soccer moms who don’t get out enough. Call this music what you want, but it isn’t country.
Tyrone
May 6, 2018 @ 12:17 pm
Don’t you have a book club meeting to go to?
Kelly
May 5, 2018 @ 5:14 pm
Gemini..when the hell did it become okay to Bragg about bangin your wife?
MKat
May 17, 2018 @ 2:30 am
Trigger, your review simply affirmed what I already suspected from the radio singles I have heard off this album – I’m better off putting the money I might have wasted on this towards Ashley Monroe’s newest. So for that I thank you. I made the mistake of buying Ripcord when it was released, only played it once, too disappointed to play it again, so I already had my doubts that this would be any better.
Some may laugh even at this, but I wish the Keith Urban who made Golden Road would come back as a mid-life crisis!
Steve C
May 30, 2018 @ 10:30 am
I enjoy Keith Urban and have for years. I own most of his albums. I own this one too by virtue of buying tickets to see him in concert. He is incredibly talented and I think he is capable of playing good country music.
That said, I have to agree with Trigger. I was hoping his last album was his mid-life crisis and this would be a return to something resembling country. It’s not. It’s not even good. There aren’t even catchy tunes (like “The Fighter”) or decent lyrics (“Break on Me”).
I’ll tell you what would be refreshing: Keith apologizing for this record and recording some kind of “country roots” LP. It really is that bad. In fact, It’s so bad, I can’t reconcile this album with the guy who played “To Love Somebody” in that BeeGees special. Are they even the same guy? This isn’t even a good pop album. Forget his fans; he owes himself more than this.
When Trigger’s right, he’s right.
Pat
May 5, 2018 @ 12:29 pm
Absolutely nothing illegal about liking shitty music. Takes all kinds. I will pop in a shitty movie every now and again for laughs, myself. I may give this one a go just to test my will.
Fran
May 5, 2018 @ 12:55 pm
I’ve been a fan for years and love Keith Urbans music and style. Graffiti U is a great country pop sound. Love it!
CountryRoads
May 5, 2018 @ 2:32 pm
You can’t be much older than 14 if you actually listen to this stuff. So, using the term “years” is a bit of an overstatement.
Louise Dover
May 5, 2018 @ 4:06 pm
I’m 56 years old and have been a Keith Urban fan since he started. I’ll be a Keith Urban fan until I die. He’s a great guy with a great voice, and I enjoy his music. So rant away all you haters! Won’t change my mind one bit.
Tammey A Bazinet
May 5, 2018 @ 7:44 pm
I am also 56, don’t bash Keith Urban because he is keeping up with the competition. Do all of you also slam Thomas Rhett, Jason Aldean and Florida Georgia Line or do only listen to Chris Stapleton. Diversity is good and so is Keith’s album!!!
Trigger
May 5, 2018 @ 8:13 pm
“Do all of you also slam Thomas Rhett, Jason Aldean and Florida Georgia Line”
Yes.
albert
May 5, 2018 @ 8:22 pm
absolutely we slam those guys . THEY DON’T PLAY COUNTRY MUSIC TAMMY
albert
May 7, 2018 @ 8:43 am
I think that ensuring that other options to KU’s music exist is utmost to our ‘ mission , Louise .
I would not want to have a young person feel that writing and performing REAL honest authentic country music is a waste of time because radio won’t play it due to the pop success of KU or Rhett or FGL. I want to hear music from young talent that is totally inspired by authenticity found in REAL country music and experience and she will never find that on mainstream if the industry keeps chasing $$$ and embracing the success of pop singers .
Fran
May 5, 2018 @ 5:01 pm
Sure am older than that and I know what I like! Fan of Kenny Chesney Brothers Osborne Carrie Underwood Little Big Town Eric Church and so man others.
albert
May 5, 2018 @ 7:28 pm
so……not a country fan , then Fran . this would explain why you might like KU . Most of those acts are not making country music , with the exception ( occasionally ) of , perhaps , Eric Church . well ok ….we get where you’re coming from . …the point here is that KU is not making country music , like him or not . NOTHING he brings to the table has any connection to authentic country music .THIS concerns many of us and is why this site exists. Every song KU and radio pass off as ‘country’ takes exposure from a REAL country act and jeopardizes the future of the genre .
OlaR
May 5, 2018 @ 12:59 pm
The Keith Urban fan-girl brigade is storming SCM.
KU is taking the place on “country” radio, TV, award shows & artists who make real country music have no chance to display their talent. The format is (still) called Country & not Fiddle-Pop or Banjo-EDM.
Keith Urban can record what he wants…rap, heavy metal or free-jazz.
But get the f*** out of the format. Leave the Opry & Nashville. Take Sam Hunt, Walker Hayes & Chris Lane with you. Make place for the real talents.
Much Better Music:
Josh Ward – More Than I Deserve – Album – Released (05/04) – Texas
Brad Cox – Brad Cox – Album – Released (05/04) – Australia/Debut
Not Good With Horses – Faultlines – Album – Released (03/29) – Australia/Alt-Country
Emma Dykes – Pay It Forward – Album – Released (2017) – Australia/Country-Pop
Genevieve Allen – Damn This Rodeo – EP – Released (05/05) – Texas
Catherine Britt & The Cold-Cold Hearts – Single – Released (04/19) – Pure Australian Country
Tyrone
May 5, 2018 @ 1:12 pm
I would say “unleash the aging soccer moms” but it looks like some of them are already here.
RWP
May 5, 2018 @ 8:44 pm
Wonder if Their vibraters are named “Keith”
Kevin Davis
May 5, 2018 @ 1:15 pm
It’s pretty funny that we got comments from Louise, Susan, Gloria, Marni, Vickie saying that Keith is awesome, you shut up, yada yada. I guess some Keith fangirls got wind of this negative review.
albert
May 5, 2018 @ 8:24 pm
…or they are all the same person …?
GrantH
May 6, 2018 @ 10:56 pm
They always do. Keith Urban reviews on this blog always seem to get the most attention from non-regulars.
Steve
May 5, 2018 @ 1:37 pm
I really, really, really want to like Keith Urban. His earlier stuff ranged from extremely good (“But For the Grace of God”) to just a fun listen. And I really admire all his fundraising work for the Country Music Hall of Fame (which makes his current direction even more of a headscratcher). But with every album I find less and less to like. It’s a shame.
PSU Guy
May 5, 2018 @ 1:51 pm
Yeah…this review is right on the money. When the most country sounding song on an album is a tune penned by Ed Sheeran (“Parallel Line”), you’ve got problems. And that song isn’t particularly that “country”, but at least it isn’t insanely overproduced, like most of the tracks here. Even his ballads, which I think he normally excels at…just aren’t sparse enough to be effective here.
I”ll probably get the wrath of some that post here for saying this, but…I really, really enjoyed some of Urban’s earlier albums (“Golden Road” and “Be Here”, in particular). He was never going to confuse anyone with George Strait, but I thought he did pop country in the 2000s as well as anyone, and was a breath of fresh air when he started. But, he’s had a career that’s lasted from 2000 until now for a reason…he’s been able to chase trends, and adapt his material to country radio. Hence why his last couple of his albums have become up straight up pop, with “Graffiti U” being the most stark example. Sadly, he seems to anticipate that the type of music on this album is going to be the future of country music…and I think he’ll probably be right. Heck, you can argue it already sounds like this now…since bro country has lessened in popularity, the trend seems to be to go with straight pop…catchy melody, meaningless lyrics about relationships between drunk young folks, and the previously faint banjo/fiddle/steel guitar that was once a requisite in all pop-country songs seemingly becoming less prevalent. So, by going into this direction…he’ll probably last longer on country radio than most of his peers who have been around a while. There aren’t too many folks still on the charts from when he started…Blake Shelton and Kenny Chesney are still fairly successful, but Tim McGraw, Rascal Flatts, and Brad Paisley have absolutely seen their careers fade a bit. Going this route is probably self-preservation on his part, so he still has a seat at the table. But, I agree with Trigger’s main point…it’s silly to see a 50 year old guy writing/singing this type of material.
It doesn’t really bother me, because I don’t listen to the current stuff much anymore (have Sirius/XM radio, so I can avoid this stuff like the plague now). I don’t begrudge Urban his money, b/c the record will sell…nor do I begrudge his fans for listening to it if they enjoy it. It’s just not my taste in music, either lyrically or production wise. But as someone who thinks the guy can do better than this…I do think it’s a bit of a shame.
Trigger
May 5, 2018 @ 2:01 pm
But one trend we’ve also been seeing lately from artists like Luke Bryan, Blake Shelton, and Tim McGraw is more of a rootsy sound, and even a bit of steel guitar. The artists in Keith Urban’s age group are getting back to the roots and having radio success with it. Keith Urban is going in the opposite direction.
PSU Guy
May 5, 2018 @ 8:08 pm
Trigger, I totally agree with that statement. I still think the rootsy stuff is more in the minority, at least as far as radio success is concerned. I recently went to check out the mediabase country charts, and just clicked on the 20-30 second clips from each song in the top 20. Blake Shelton’s “I Lived It” was the only song I could see myself listening to again, and honestly…it felt like it didn’t even belong with most of the other songs in that top 20. It almost feels like a relic from the 1990s or the 2000s, in comparison with such gems as “Singles You Up”, “Up Down”, “Take Back Home Girl”,”Meant to Be”, etc. Keith apparently seems to think those songs are the future of the genre, based on the bit I’ve heard of this record…and that’s scary. But, it also explains why he would create this record.
I also think you made a great point with the age appropriateness of his current songs. It’s almost like the guy is having a midlife crisis, and feels he has to record this junk in order to continue to be relevant at country radio…because he’s afraid he could lose that spot at any point. It’s an extreme reaction, given the fact that other veterans are having hits with quality material. Additionally, he could snap out of it too…Tim McGraw also went through his “Truck Yeah” and “Lookin for That Girl” phase. But, this is two albums of this now, and this is even more of a departure from country music than “Ripcord” was. At some point, if you’re Urban…you have to decide whether you want to age gracefully, or whether you want to be the dude that, as soon as he turns 50, dyes his hair and buys a motorcycle on a whim.
albert
May 5, 2018 @ 4:32 pm
”……..meaningless lyrics about relationships between drunk young folks, …….”
right on
DJ
May 5, 2018 @ 5:00 pm
Maybe chasing trends is considered the thing to do. Personally, I prefer trend setters. Anybody can follow, few can lead.
LoYo
May 5, 2018 @ 1:59 pm
He’s making country music tolerable.
M.
May 5, 2018 @ 5:03 pm
Which is to say, you don’t like country music. That’s fine, but bear in mind, you could just as well take a different viewpoint and claim that he makes rap tolerable.
Jackie Treehorn
May 5, 2018 @ 10:12 pm
I guess, but only for those who have no earthy clue of what country music actually is. Fuck this guy and the shitty music he makes. Fuck all artists who waste their talents making garbage drivel, and fuck the fact that an album like this has be reviewed on this site.
Ulysses McCaskill
May 7, 2018 @ 1:51 am
There are a number of artists making country music tolerable right about now, but Keith is not one of them.
Ellen
May 5, 2018 @ 2:02 pm
FUNNY
KEITH IS IN THE PORT
DOES ALL FOR THE HALL
IS A TRUE “ABASSADOR FOR MUSIC IN SCHOOLS”
HAS WON COUNTLESS AWARDS.
YEAH HE SWAYS FROM REGULAR COUNTRY MUSIC DOES THAT MAKE HIM LESS TALENTED
NO NOT AT ALL
Colter
May 5, 2018 @ 2:14 pm
Someone didn’t read the entire review
Chris
May 5, 2018 @ 10:54 pm
Someone also needs English grammar lessons and to fix her stuck Caps Lock key.
Jackie Treehorn
May 5, 2018 @ 10:14 pm
A gold medal at the special olympics does not make one a world class athlete Ellen.
Tyrone
May 6, 2018 @ 12:21 pm
Stuck on the caps lock?
Ulysses McCaskill
May 7, 2018 @ 1:28 am
WHY ARE YOU SHOUTING???
Ulysses McCaskill
May 7, 2018 @ 1:52 am
Was that your attempt at poetry, Ellen? If so, beautiful. I actually cried a little bit before I went back to listening to Waylon Jennings and regained my masculinity.
Ellen
May 5, 2018 @ 2:04 pm
Yeah Triggerman and he’s BEST FRIENDS WITH ALL YOU MENTIONED. GET YOUR INFO START
HE IS PART OF THE OPRY
Rachel
May 5, 2018 @ 2:51 pm
Maybe Keith and all his BEST FRIENDS could actually make some visits to the Opry at some point.
Ellen
May 6, 2018 @ 7:30 am
Rachel
Your point is????
Ulysses McCaskill
May 7, 2018 @ 1:53 am
The Opry has become a joke.
JB-Chicago
May 5, 2018 @ 3:15 pm
I was waiting for the review. I got through the whole album once just to say I did about a week ago, it’s a shame really. Like others said “at least Taylor said she was leaving”. What a waste of guitar talent. This is an embarrassment and to market it as Country as well as taking up precious airtime so little girls can say they listen to and like “Country music” is fuckin ridiculous. I had to go listen to I’m Not The Devil just to get the taste out of my ears. “Graffiti U”? He should’ve called it “F**k U at least then he’d shown he still has some balls.
Desperado Destry
May 5, 2018 @ 4:29 pm
He don’t have no balls… you can tell when you hear him sing.
Bill Weiler
May 6, 2018 @ 8:30 am
Any club that feels that Jimmy Martin and Hank Sr. weren’t up to their hypocritical standards is irrelevant in my mind. The Opry is as big a joke as commercial “Country Radio”.
Bill Weiler
May 6, 2018 @ 8:32 am
Should have been a reply to Ellen.
Gerald
May 5, 2018 @ 3:21 pm
I’m surprised you review this album without “WARNING: HEAVY LANGUAGE” or ranting and completely going off on Keith Urban. I’m actually surprised you even reviewed this at all. It’s not even close to country which is probably why I’m not that pissed off about and haven’t given it much attention. Probably why you didn’t use HEAVY LANGUAGE either. It’s not worth going off on Keith Urban anymore cause you know what you’re gonna get. All you can do is give a long sigh of disappointment and move on.
I hope he gets those angry kangaroos we were planning on mailing to his house. Maybe they could knock some country back into him. Cause kangaroos are more badass than Keith Urban anymore.
Gerald
May 5, 2018 @ 3:26 pm
I wouldn’t be surprised if Urban has a “Fuck this shit!” moment on stage while trying to play this crap and lights his guitar on fire and obliterates it on the stage because he realizes you can’t play guitar with music that has no guitar. Then he’ll go through a mid-life crisis and come out of it as the old Keith Urban.
Kevin Davis
May 5, 2018 @ 8:07 pm
Nope, unfortunately, Gerald, this is his mid-life crisis. How could it possibly get worse? How could it get more embarrassing? But, more importantly, your scenario of Keith having a sudden realization that this is crap is never going to happen because Keith is the “creative” force behind all of it. He’s not one of those countless young males doing whatever Music Row tells him to do. He’s Keith Urban. This is all his own doing — very consciously, very deliberately — including the producers and the cowriters he chooses for his current projects. This is why I hold Keith to a higher standard than Sam-Kane-Walker-Dumbass-Generic-Dude. He knows better, he’s talented, he’s older, he’s a statesman in the genre, and that’s why his current output is so extravagantly pathetic.
MH
May 5, 2018 @ 3:26 pm
He should’ve never given up coke.
Dave
May 5, 2018 @ 4:15 pm
I’ve been an Urban fan since The Ranch album (still the best of his career) but with Ripcord and this, I’m done with him. It’s too bad, he’s a fine singer and excellent guitarist but why does he need to make stuff like this? He’s had a long career and could totally live on his past hits but he’s putting out these godawful songs. Also, just wondering if there’s any song here that has production as bad as The Fighter had. That song made me so angry.
King Honky Of Crackershire
May 5, 2018 @ 4:33 pm
If there’s anything I disagree with here, it’s the underlying implication that Keith Urban was ever country, or ever worth listening to as a Country artist.
It made me sick when he first exploded on the scene in ’99. I remember desperately hoping he’d flop outta the gate. He didn’t, and he’s been pissing on the grave of Country Music ever since.
Desperado Destry
May 5, 2018 @ 4:38 pm
Damn… after listening to this shit I know why Sears is going under and why I quit shopping there. Keith needs a slap in face (more like a kick in the nuts) by reality. His 50 year old self should feel like an a**hole for putting out this kind of crap at at his age and trying to pass it off as country music to all of the teenage girls out there who are too busy getting down to the beat and thinking “look how cute his ass looks in those jeans” to really pay attention to
KM
May 5, 2018 @ 4:54 pm
Personally love the album myself. And all of Keith Urban albums. He’s the only country artist I can even stomach to listen to these days.
Trigger
May 5, 2018 @ 5:21 pm
That’s because you don’t actually like country.
Mary
May 6, 2018 @ 2:53 am
It is sad that some “country music fans” have gotten used to bad music so much that they can’t tell when the music is very sub-par. As someone who only listen to only select country artists who make good music, I feel I have a better ear for shitty music just because I have not been exposed to it a lot. Its artists like this one that give country music a bad name and prevent people from discovering good country artists. And all the blindly loyal fans makes me pause before I admit I listen to country music to people who think its lame.
albert
May 7, 2018 @ 8:15 am
Mary you’ve NAILED it with this …..
“It is sad that some “country music fans” have gotten used to bad music so much that they can’t tell when the music is very sub-par.”
Many folks are ‘conditioned ‘ to accept this sub-par pop as country music and have lost perspective . Excellent point .
Desperado Destry
May 5, 2018 @ 4:54 pm
Darn thing posted… continued.
what he’s singing about. He’s one of the artists that at his age could set country music back on the the right track and call out the ones that are mucking it up… but he’s not. Also as a side note… this is worse than Taylor Swift in my opinion. At least her first couple albums… I think until Red… she kept the instrumentals country and at least kept the songs pop-country. When you put the two side by side here Keith wins hands down for running country music into the ground because at the end of the day… he’s only 50 (or 18 depending on how you look at it) and still has a lot more time to f up country music.
DJ
May 5, 2018 @ 5:09 pm
I’ll admit I liked him as a judge on American Idol- as a judge. Seems like a nice guy with a really bad hair cut. When he performed I found something else to do and never have heard what makes him country.
Aggc
May 5, 2018 @ 6:24 pm
“The Ranch” and “Be There” were so damn good. A shame he couldnt keep the momentum going.
Corncaster
May 5, 2018 @ 6:36 pm
This music is about Keith’s mortgage.
Jim L.
May 5, 2018 @ 8:08 pm
And I’ll bet it takes a substantial income to keep Nicole satisfied. How’s her movie career doing?
Wild Billy
May 5, 2018 @ 6:49 pm
Hmmmm, by my count, it seems we have been visited by about 10 or 11 members from the Keith Urban fan forum boards… Must be a slow day over there.
Joe Cool
May 5, 2018 @ 7:47 pm
I like that viewpoint, trigger. It is a review. You have positive ones, and negative ones, this one falls into the latter. I’ll be honest, I do like some, actually a lot of Keith Urban’s music. And although I respect that he is following his “passion”, ultimately this album falls short in the country category. It is by no means one of his best. And he really does need to grow up. And for all of you women on here defending Mr. Urban, frankly he doesn’t need it. This website is dedicated to , as the name suggests, real country music. So if you like the album, that’s fine. If you want to leave a fangirl review, go to YouTube. Sorry Keith. You really gotta recognize that you’re 50. I hope the old Keith comes back soon. Until then, I’ma go listen to George Strait.
albert
May 5, 2018 @ 8:30 pm
George Strait . He’s a COUNTRY singer , girls .
Joe Cool
May 6, 2018 @ 1:23 pm
Amen. George Strait, Alan Jackson, Merle Haggard, and heck, I’ll throw in some David Lee Murphy for good measure.
Bill
May 5, 2018 @ 8:50 pm
Wow. I see the Keith Urban fan club is out in force.
Jim L.
May 6, 2018 @ 12:26 am
Wait ’til you see the Amazon reviews!
Ulysses McCaskill
May 7, 2018 @ 1:54 am
Teen girls and the soccer moms who act like teen girls.
Shastacatfish
May 5, 2018 @ 8:53 pm
So far no one has claimed that he is still more country than Sam Hunt. Perhaps we have finally reached the limits of that assertion.
Jim L.
May 6, 2018 @ 12:23 am
No one is more country than Midland. They’ll kick your ass if you disagree.
James Ewell Brown
May 6, 2018 @ 8:43 am
I’d disagree, but I don’t have the time to wait on them to get thru costume & makeup…
the pistolero
May 6, 2018 @ 3:15 pm
Perhaps we have finally reached the limits of that assertion.
I think that limit was reached with Walker Hayes, but this is right up there.
Pete Marshall
May 5, 2018 @ 9:10 pm
I have no desire to buy this crappy cd/album.
Adrian
May 5, 2018 @ 10:17 pm
He definitely picked an urban title for his album.
Cody
May 6, 2018 @ 9:04 am
As a big fan of his early records (Golden Road, Be Here, Love, Pain, & The Whole Crazy Thing) I can honestly say this is a confusing, messy, and disappointing effort. Where we used to hear tastefully mature real-life lyrics, toe tapping melodies, and ripping guitar solos, we are now hearing lyrics from a recovering alcoholic about ‘taking shots with the night owls’, partying in Cali, and ‘maniacs in the bed’ matched with overproduction effectively squandering the talent of a world class musician. It’s truly tragic.
What we have here is an example of how drastic modern music can influence today’s artists. Keith Urban made the record he wanted to make. Not the record he was coerced into making from the powers that be. If you listen to him talk about the evolution of the record you’ll see that this was a pure artistic reflection of where he is at right now, based off of his current musical influences. He cannot be faulted for making the music he wants to make. The bummer for his early fans and for country music is that record happened to be Graffiti U.
PSU Guy
May 6, 2018 @ 11:06 am
I listened to the amazon previews of these songs, so I only got 30 second clips of most of these…but I laughed out loud at the “she’s a maniac in the bed, but a brainiac in her head” line. Poetry at it’s finest.
Also, the “recovering alcoholic” point is a good one too. The persona of the artist doesn’t always have to match the material, especially when you’re just trying to sell music…but it just reinforces that the dude is too old for this stuff, and is (hopefully) not living his life like the character in these songs is.
albert
May 8, 2018 @ 12:47 am
“she’s a maniac in the bed, but a brainiac in her head”…wow ..lol
this surely must have been written by a 6 year old …
how the hell can all of you KU fans defend THIS ‘lyric’ .??
in the most respectful sense possible I’m glad Merle isn’t around to hear THAT as an example of what ‘country’ radio has stooped to playing .
the pistolero
May 6, 2018 @ 3:21 pm
we are now hearing lyrics from a recovering alcoholic about ‘taking shots with the night owls’, partying in Cali, and ‘maniacs in the bed’ matched with overproduction effectively squandering the talent of a world class musician.
And that’s all the worse when you compare this to the music that Jason Boland made after he stopped drinking. It’s like night and day.
Lindsey
May 6, 2018 @ 10:53 am
I couldn’t believe I actually found 3 songs of his from the past 5 years that I don’t mind listening to. They aren’t part of this, though. Geez. Quit embarrassing real country music fans. Call your crap something else.
D Ray White
May 6, 2018 @ 10:54 am
Not to be a d1ck or nothing, but commenters seem to be divided into two camps:
1: Older women/ STANS who think Keith Urban is cute and listen exclusively to hot country radio.
2: People who enjoy country music played by a band full of musicians who do not rip off other country music songs.
Rhonda
May 6, 2018 @ 6:26 pm
Really? This reviewer just ripped to shreds something that I very much enjoy and I responded. That doesn’t make me a maniacal crazy person. And could you stop the ageism comments.
Ulysses McCaskill
May 7, 2018 @ 1:56 am
You see Rhonda, I had a feeling there was an “ism” coming in your post. Surely you are not familiar with this site. Most of the readers here are fans of country music, not teenage pop.
Rhonda
May 7, 2018 @ 6:05 am
If you don’t want “isms” stop taking unnecessary shots at older women. It does not further your point.
Donny
May 8, 2018 @ 5:16 pm
Hahahahah “ageism”
the pistolero
May 6, 2018 @ 11:48 am
This is by no means a slam at you or this review, Trig, just a general observation:
I really get tired of people rebutting criticisms of Keith Urban with “but he’s a great guitar player!” Well, whoop-de-shit. As I have put it before, he uses that talent so little anymore that it might as well not exist. Maybe if he’d made his name with said guitar skills instead of with his musical mystery meat that he mischaracterizes as country, he wouldn’t catch so much crap from so many of us.
Carol
May 6, 2018 @ 12:04 pm
Each to their own…..if you don’t like this album of Keith Urban … no one is forcing you to listen to it!! And furthermore…who cares what YOU think.
the pistolero
May 6, 2018 @ 2:40 pm
no one is forcing you to listen to it
No one’s forcing you to read this blog either, but here you are.
Ulysses McCaskill
May 7, 2018 @ 1:57 am
WHO CARES WHAT YOU THINK C TO THE AROL.
SwedishMattias
May 6, 2018 @ 12:13 pm
This is proof that music genres is out of date!? Or that we need more genres!? More specific label what you actually listen to, or as a musician – if it’s important? – what you do. A long time ago it was easier cause there was not so many subcategories as it is today, and not so money-driven. Is it record companies who is the ”bad guy”, forcing artists to do something they don’t really want to do? Or is it both? Some just do a stereotype thing and put some pop and rock into it, that always works. People consume and money flows, business as usual. I never liked Keith Urban and never will. Pure Poop!
J
May 6, 2018 @ 1:14 pm
Kylie Minogue’s new album is more country than this!
Mike
May 6, 2018 @ 2:17 pm
Jesus Christ on a Crutch!!! Can someone please get Keith Urban back on cocaine again?? At least he made somewhat tolerable music when he was hoovering booger sugar.
Tim
May 6, 2018 @ 4:48 pm
Hi. This is an outrage. The ‘U’ isn’t about University or targeting people that age – its for the fans ‘YOU’ was originally the title (Graffiti You) but he shortened it to ‘Graffiti U’ to symbolise his surname and his fans. He isn’t a disgrace and you should think before you post because all of this text is incorrect. Get your facts right. He isn’t terrible – he knows what he is doing. Show some respect.
Trigger
May 6, 2018 @ 6:50 pm
Nobody is saying the ‘U’ is actually for “University.” Was simply an analogy.
Ulysses McCaskill
May 7, 2018 @ 1:58 am
Tim, a paper bag and a few deep breaths will help you tremendously.
Corncaster
May 8, 2018 @ 5:37 pm
It’s a sexual innuendo, Tim. Part of a Masonic plot.
Rhonda
May 6, 2018 @ 5:39 pm
I love this album and I loved Ripcord! I believe that Keith Urban
has been successful for so long because of the niche his music fills. His music is uplifting, fun and inspiring. Attending one of his concerts makes me feel good! It’s as simple as that. And apparently the positive energy he gives in his performances is appreciated by a wide age range of people. What exactly should one write about at age 50?
I am 62 and the last thing I want to listen to is “age appropriate “ subject matter. I live that everyday. Keep ‘um comin’ Keith Urban!
albert
May 6, 2018 @ 9:08 pm
rhonda rhonda……whatever keith urban does musically is his choice …whatever YOU listen to and enjoy -keith urban or arcade fire or whomever -is YOUR choice.
but this is a website that supports and promotes country music artists . COUNTRY music artists . ku is NOT a country music artist and should not be getting exposure from country radio or ‘country’ sources at the expense of ACTUAL country music artists who are doing their best to survive by keeping the traditions of the genre alive . certainly this makes some sense to you and would , hopefully , seem an important and fair concern on the part of people who LOVE and are cncerned for the welfare and survival of authentic COUNTRY music .
does it seem remotely fair to you that keith urban’s music should get exposure on a country station while Alan Jackson , George Strait , Joe Nichols and countless other ACTUAL country singers can’t ? should ku not be competing for exposure in a pop market if he’s intent on making pop songs ?
Rhonda
May 7, 2018 @ 6:00 am
Albert Albert…Protest all you want about Keith Urban’s music not being country. You are right. I have no problem with that. What I do object to is declaring that this album has absolutely no redeeming qualities. If artists like Keith Urban were not getting exposure on mainstream country radio, those stations would probably not exist. As for your examples, I don’t think Alan Jackson and George Strait are complaining. Joe Nichols had his chance. If you and your constituency are so concerned with the welfare of traditional country music start your own station and play whomever you deem worthy.
As for the remarks that have been made on Keith Urbans lyrics; there are plenty of cheesy traditional country music lyrics to go around.
albert
May 7, 2018 @ 8:03 am
”remarks that have been made on Keith Urban’s lyrics; there are plenty of cheesy traditional country music lyrics to go around.” My point exactly . Contemporary country radio is riddled with weak , poorly written song lyrics . KU just adds to the problem with his
Alan Jackson has indeed spoken out about radio not playing COUNTRY music anymore …..as have many other REAL country singers/writers. Music row has 80% fewer songwriters on staff deals than it did 10 years ago because the industry is promoting a pop sound and demands the ‘artists’ write their own material . Hmmm?
You are a KU fan and I somewhat respect that . But his fans need to understand why so many of us are concerned that the Rhetts and the Urbans and the Underwoods are NOT good news for real COUNTRY music
albert
May 7, 2018 @ 8:12 am
BTW ….I happened to see Childish Gambino on the weekend . He is an incredibly original and gifted artist pushing the envelope on many fronts and I respect that . BUT I’d have serious problems with him promoting HIS music on country radio . KU is no more country than an artist like Childish Gambino or Harry Styles or other hugely popular pop artists and should be promoting his stuff in a pop world accordingly ….NOT helping to undermine country music with his ambiguous sound.
Adam Minter
May 6, 2018 @ 5:41 pm
Predictable slam from a website that represents the most reactionary wing of American music. Do you guys write these things before the album comes out, then switch a word or two here or there, and hit publish? Good criticism is surprising, even if it’s a bad review. It offers insights, not ad hominem attacks that do little but establish that the author is a member of an in-group.
albert
May 6, 2018 @ 9:25 pm
”……website that represents the most reactionary wing of American music.”
Adam ……you realize that in these spineless , anything goes , all’s fair , the dollar- is- all -that- matters times we live in that you have possible just written the best compliment a caring music community could be given ?
We are only hoping that clear, open-minded folks understand our concerns about protecting the possible demise of a genre of music we and much of the world absolutely love .
What is being shopped as ‘country’ music by the likes of the Urbans , the Aldeans , the Underwoods , the Ballerinis and others may seem quite innocuous if it were not for the fact that its mostly inferior elements are usurping the authenticity of ACTUAL country music and consists of little or no redeeming factors to contribute in its place .The music is machine-generated , assembly -line written and vocall tuned to keep a singer on pitch . The lyric for much contemporary fare has thin to no narrative and tells us nothing about country or very much HUMAN experience beyond drinking and hooking up ( Urban , Hunt , Bryan and many others ).
If this music finds a following anywhere but on radio and outlets who CLAIM to be promoting COUNTRY music , fine . But it doesn’t seem to do that OR even try to do that .
”……website that represents the most reactionary wing of American music.”
You bet , Adam . And thanks for recognizing or passion and commitment to the cause .
Adam Minter
May 7, 2018 @ 12:03 am
Hey, if you’re cool being called a reactionary, then I think we’re all good. Cheers.
Rhonda
May 7, 2018 @ 6:20 am
Drinking and hooking up lyrics have been rampant in traditional country music since country music began. A previous poster listed suggestions for traditional artists to listen to. I like many genres of music so I googled. The first artists’ song that popped up was something about whiskey and the second was about being too drunk to drive. Granted I didn’t get very far in my search but these songs are not “poetry”. Try listening to Keith Urbans “Horses”. As I previously stated they are uplifting and inspiring. I’m not sure why anyone would consider that a bad thing.
andie
May 6, 2018 @ 6:43 pm
And yet you praised Carrie Underwoods latest non-country lead single like it was the beacon of light for female country artists. Double standards much?
Adam Minter
May 6, 2018 @ 6:57 pm
For better or worse – and I’d say it’s for the worst – much of the alt-country critique of mainstream country isn’t about the music, but about representations of masculinity. Thus, Carrie gets a pass.
Adam Minter
May 7, 2018 @ 12:02 am
Hey, if you’re cool being called a reactionary, then I think we’re all good. Cheers.
albert
May 7, 2018 @ 8:19 am
And if poorly written pop searching for $$$$$ tries to pass itself off as trad jazz I’ll be just as reactionary Adam . I believe trad jazz is an important artform and needs to be protected . Just like trad country .
Alan Betts
May 7, 2018 @ 1:29 am
Yeah Keith Urban does suck, but why is a spic writing about country music?
Trigger
May 7, 2018 @ 8:32 am
Ah yes, a racial slur. Glad to see Keith Urban fans keeping the conversation dignified.
And for the record, I’m not Hispanic. Not that there’s anything wrong with that.
Rhonda
May 7, 2018 @ 9:37 am
That was not a “Keith Urban” fan. And yes the racial slur was absolutely uncalled for.
the pistolero
May 7, 2018 @ 1:46 pm
Do the names Juan Raul Davis Rodriguez and Baldemar Huerta mean anything to you, sport?
Ulysses McCaskill
May 7, 2018 @ 1:38 am
What’s the most unnattractive name in the English language?
Keith.
-Peter Griffin
Susan Keehn
May 7, 2018 @ 7:15 am
Ulysses McCaskill….jealius much? Do thousands of women shriek when you walk into the room? Lol I doubt it. Just givibg you a little bit of your bullying style back. I think the ckub you want isn’t country music. I think it’s INTERNET TROLLS.
albert
May 7, 2018 @ 8:25 am
”Do thousands of women shriek when you walk into the room? ”
wrong argument Susan.the numbers of women who shriek when Bieber walks into a room does not indicate how COUNTrY Bieber is any more than it indicates how “country” KU is . It just means they both are attractive to women . That’s all .
Jason Hannan
May 7, 2018 @ 8:39 am
Is Walmart closed today? Sure are a lot of angry moms here.
Corncaster
May 7, 2018 @ 8:51 am
Here is Keith talking about this record:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eb_jEfJh1Xo
Noted, that he never uses the word country. He talks a lot about himself, though. The eye in the pyramid is also an unusual symbol to place in a pop recording studio, but perhaps globally-minded people like Adam Minter would claim it’s “reactionary” even to point to such a thing.
Keith Urban is selling the musical equivalent of cocaine, and always has.
Nadia Lockheart
May 7, 2018 @ 10:17 am
My main gripe with Keith Urban since after the “Get Closer” era winded down……………………..actually has less to do with the production (which is indeed a problem too)………………….but more to do with how increasingly douchey his lyricism has gotten seemingly out of nowhere.
For years on end, Keith Urban presented himself as an “Awwwwww shucks!” Adult Contemporary-leaning country pop romeo next door who always wore his heart on his sleeve that you might not love, but couldn’t help but like. But beginning after “Get Closer”, it’s as though his PR team met him behind closed doors and said: “We need you to revamp your personality!”
It was first hinted on “Little Bit of Everything” with lyrics like “I want a cool chick that’ll cook for me but’ll dance on the bar in her tan bare feet and do what I want when I want and she’ll do it with me.” But then after a few harmless follow-up singles, Urban’s singles abruptly grew a LOT more leering and objectionable: from “Blue Ain’t Your Color” and its emotional manipulation to “The Fighter” and its blatant aping of Shawn Mendes’s already uber-douchey “Treat You Better”, to the laughably awful attempt at “being woken” on “Female”.
And “Graffiti U” is oozing with much more of that empty bravado and machismo-flexing. “Gemini” is by far the worst offender of it. But then you also have him aping Migos on “My Wave”, blatant bro-country holdovers on “Texas Time” and “Never Comin’ Down”, and posturing on “Drop Top”………………and it largely amounts to an album overblown with a caricature hardly in sync with the personality of Keith Urban past.
Benny Lee
May 7, 2018 @ 12:18 pm
This record is the strongest case I’ve ever heard for funding music education in our public schools.
Niels
May 7, 2018 @ 1:14 pm
This album is hilarious. But sometimes also really REALLY, bad! I did not like any song of this albums.
marty
May 7, 2018 @ 3:17 pm
the queaf suburban spam bots are out. shut it down!
kapam
May 7, 2018 @ 6:22 pm
Virtually from the time Keith Urban became a superstar in the USA, he has been almost impossible to ignore here in Australia. He is virtually a one-man media phenomenon here. I say “almost” because, with the passing years, I am having less and less difficulty ignoring his output. Not only do I find nothing remotely country, or even rootsy, about his music; the same empty lyrical themes and tropes continue ad-infinitum. The ongoing experimentation (if you could call it that) with synthetic sounds and beats offers nothing new either. Very happy to pass on Keith Urban and take in whatever receives 1-&-3/4 to 2-Guns-Up reviews on SCM.
Mike
May 8, 2018 @ 5:38 pm
The corporate music machine always comes for every type of music to destroy it.
First, they came for Rock and Roll, and I did not speak out—
Because I was not a Rock and Roll fan.
Then they came for the Heavy Metal, and I did not speak out—
Because I was not a Metalhead.
Then they came for Hip Hop, and I did not speak out—
Because I was not into Hip Hop.
Then they came for Country Music—and we were alone…because there was no one left to speak for country music.
Luckyoldsun
May 8, 2018 @ 10:57 pm
Obviously, Keith is making the music he wants to make.
And he doesn’t give a frack what music you think he should be making.
Trigger
May 9, 2018 @ 12:27 am
I don’t know if that’s obvious at all. Don’t we know from history that it’s commonplace that music coming from Music Row is not the will of the artist?
Luckyoldsun
May 9, 2018 @ 4:56 pm
Urban is a veteran multi-platinum superstar. He’s richer than his bosses at the record label are. Nobody can make him record what he doesn’t want to record. The guy’s 50 years old and the album is a commercial hit and he’s a headliner concert act. I think it’s safe to say that he’s doing what he wants to do.
albert
May 9, 2018 @ 3:46 pm
Trend chasing doesn’t guarantee you’re on the right path for YOU . This new KU stuff sounds quite scattershot …like he doesn’t know what to chase or what his musical statement really wants to be . I’d argue that he’s never sounded more confused or musically misguided . Trying to be all things to all people usually means you leave out the only person who counts .
MKat
May 17, 2018 @ 2:56 am
Just for the record here… 44 y.o. female here, what you might consider aging soccer mom if I had kids, and NOT at all fan-girling over this disappointing album. I know, and I hope deep in his heart he knows, Keith is capable of something far better than THIS.
Cheryl
May 30, 2018 @ 9:50 am
First, I will freely admit I’m not a traditional country fan. Never have been. When radio went completely traditional back around Y2K I quit listening to it totally. If radio goes completely traditional again I will again quit listening to it. I do, however, think traditional country should be fairly represented on radio since that’s where the genre started. I don’t want to give up the progressive country though, since that’s what I enjoy (with the exception of rap). Can they both exist in the same universe?
Woogeroo
June 4, 2018 @ 5:02 am
damn, that was terrible.
I didn’t even get through the first verse, sounds like some watered down BAD 80s pop.
gag.
It’s a shame for a guy who can play so well…
Duhamburglar
August 24, 2018 @ 11:07 am
True confession: I took my wife to see him a couple of weeks ago.
I bought the tickets many months ago, before this latest album was released. When I saw this review (the CD’s were included with the tickets), I hadn’t received the CD yet.
It was horrible.
Before the show, I said to my wife, “The number of times ‘country music’ will be mentioned this evening will be zero.” As I suffered through Kelsea Ballerini and then Keith, a few things struck me. First, he is quite an able showman. He’s affable, funny, and more than willing to put unknown people in the spotlight (he had some sisters who came out for a couple of tunes. They’ve been touring with him), including his band.
Second, as Trigger noted, he’s done with the pretense of being a country artist. Oh, there was an “electric banjo” on a couple of tunes, but most all of the older songs that Urban cut that had some semblance of “country” in them were gone. This was a pop show.
Third, the audience was mostly in their 40’s and 50’s, and they seemed to know every word of every song by both artists. I found this bizarre. When I used to go to Springsteen concerts, I knew every word of every song, but they meant something! This songs are lighter than fluff and here are these middle-aged drunks singing along like they are sharing a visceral experience.
Fourth, I am in a post-Urban phase of life. After a few days of detoxing, I listened to his greatest hits album. I thought, “That guy was not on stage the other night.” It’s like he retired or turned into Chris Gaines or something.
Fifth, it’s okay. I’ve got new (to me) CD’s from Cody Jinks, Sturgill Simpson, and Lori McKenna on my desk.
I guess I’ll survive. I do feel like I’ve been to a funeral though.
Frank
August 28, 2018 @ 5:37 pm
It’s amazing how critical some of you are…if you don’t like his music, fine, don’t buy it or listen to it. How many of you are musicians…or really know much about music in general? Not many, I’d estimate. Be that as it may, you must have too much time on your hands to be so ruthless, so condescending. Life’s too short to be so negative. Keith doesn’t claim to be the king of country…his music’s been evolving for years. If you’re looking for straight country, you’re barking up the wrong tree. There’s quite a bit of so-called country that sounds different now…like Sam Hunt, just to name one. It doesn’t mean he’s not a good artist…just means his sound is different. Keith’s always branching out…he has worked with tons of other artists, many of whom he has huge respect for. He may not be everyone’s cup of tea…and that’s fine. He’s still one of the biggest artists in music, and not just country. Deal with it.
Tlr
November 15, 2018 @ 10:55 am
Hummm… he just won the CMA (that’s “Country Music” for those of you that don’t know) Entertainer of the Year award last night.
The Country Music Association is a 7,400-plus-member affiliation of industry professionals from within 17 eligible categories: advertising / public relations / media, affiliated, artist, composer, entertainment services, international, marketing / digital, musician, personal manager, producer / engineer / studio, publisher / PRO, radio, record company, talent agent, talent buyer / promoter, touring personnel and venue. Those who work full-time in one of those categories and earn their income mostly from within the country music industry pay an annual membership fee if they wish to be part of the CMA.
Hummmm….someone likes his music besides his fans!
Enough said.
Dawn Tilley
November 24, 2018 @ 9:31 am
I can’t believe you! I’m 46 and I love Keith’s work! I love country and all kinds of music. Keith’s roots are country and he doesn’t keep himself in the country box! He is phenomenal and samples all kinds of music. He fuses it. Ok you don’t like it. Fine. Don’t discredit a master player because you are jealous. We are his age and he brings us back to the best times in our lives. He is the opposite of preditory. He has girls and wants to make the world better for them. He gives young female artists opportunity. If you followed him, went to a concert, knew ANYTHING about him you would know better. Him and Nicole are super close and his heart is huge!!! Get a life. I will never read another article of yours again. Yes country is changing. Take out your old country and play it but leave the rest of us alone w your hate!