Bottomland Delivers Raw Emotion and Road-Worn Regret in “Sorry State”
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
Texas-based country-rock duo Bottomland, comprised of Cannon Brand and Justin Lane Gates, continues to solidify its place in the country-rock scene with their latest single, “Sorry State.” Known for their electrifying live shows and honest songwriting, Brand and Gates offer a soul-searching anthem that delves deep into the ache of regret and the longing for a second chance. This isn’t a press release; it’s a look at a band that’s quickly making waves with their unique blend of Southern rock swagger and heartfelt narratives.
“Sorry State” embarks on a restless, emotional journey, tracking the lonely path of a lost love from the familiar landscapes of Texas to the distant reaches of Tennessee. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a wanderer grappling with the consequences of past actions. The line, “I bounce around from town to town / Still ain’t got where I need to be,” is a gut-punch of raw honesty, echoing the bittersweet reality of attempting to right wrongs when it’s already too late. It’s a relatable sentiment that resonates with anyone who’s ever wished they could rewind time.
According to Justin Lane Gates, the title itself struck a chord. “The second we heard that title, we knew there was something special there,” he shares. “It captures so much—being in a rough emotional place, life on the road, and the weight of regret. It’s one of our favorite songs we’ve ever written.” This enthusiasm for the track is palpable in its execution.
The genesis of “Sorry State” came during Bottomland’s inaugural trip to Nashville, a fertile ground for songwriting inspiration. Cannon Brand sheds light on their collaborative process: “We walked in with a head full of ideas, just trying to find the one that felt honest.” He adds, “Cannon brought up flipping the usual heartbreak script—what if the song wasn’t about someone doing you wrong, but about owning up to being the reason they left?” This fresh perspective on a classic theme elevates “Sorry State” beyond typical heartbreak fare, showcasing the duo’s maturity as songwriters.
Bottomland’s Meteoric Rise
Since their debut on March 7, 2025, Bottomland has experienced a rapid ascent in the music world. Their sound, a gritty, high-energy collision of storytelling and rebellion, has clearly resonated with a broad audience. They’re currently boasting nearly 230,000 monthly listeners on Spotify, a remarkable feat for a relatively new act. Their breakout single, “Over You, Over It,” has already racked up over 1 million streams, further solidifying their growing fan base.
This impressive momentum hasn’t gone unnoticed by the industry. Bottomland has landed on several of Spotify’s influential editorial playlists, including Homegrown, All New Country, Fresh Finds Country, and Next From Nashville. These placements are crucial for emerging artists, providing significant exposure to new listeners.
Beyond the digital realm, Bottomland is also making a significant impact on the live circuit. They have a packed schedule of major festival performances lined up, including appearances at Tanglefoot Festival, Larry Joe Taylor’s 36th Annual Texas Music Festival, and Bulls, Bands, and Barrels. Their reputation for electrifying live shows undoubtedly fuels this demand.
“Sorry State” perfectly encapsulates Bottomland’s signature style: a powerful blend of honky-tonk grit and heartfelt introspection. It’s a testament to their ability to craft songs that are both deeply personal and universally relatable. For fans of modern country and southern rock looking for authentic storytelling backed by raw energy, “Sorry State” is an absolute must-listen.