Tanner Adell’s ‘Don’t Pet (Sampler)’ Ignites the Summer with a Bold and Refreshing Sound
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
The dog days of summer are upon us, and the air is thick with the promise of long nights and new beginnings. But this Fourth of July, one artist decided to add a little extra sizzle to the season. Country-pop renegade Tanner Adell surprised fans with a firecracker of a release: Don’t Pet (Sampler). This four-song collection isn’t just a teaser; it’s a declaration. It’s a testament to Adell’s evolving artistry and a generous gift to the loyal fanbase that has been clamoring for more.
The very existence of this sampler is a nod to the power of a dedicated following. Adell herself acknowledged the fans’ persistent requests, stating, “You wanted new music, and I heard you loud and clear.” The surprise drop feels less like a calculated industry move and more like a heartfelt thank you. It’s a rare and refreshing moment in an era of meticulously planned album cycles.
The sampler opens with the audacious “Giddy Up Gorgeous,” a track that immediately sets the tone. Written solely by Adell, this song is a confident strut, a playful blend of country swagger and pop production. The lyrics are clever and sharp, delivered with a wink and a smile. It’s a perfect opener, a high-energy anthem that’s sure to become a staple on summer playlists. Produced by Cambo Bartolini and Liam Kevany, the song’s sound is crisp and layered, with just enough twang to anchor it firmly in the country-pop genre.
Next up is “Side Peach,” a collaboration with Andrew Baylis and Michael Whitworth. This track explores a more vulnerable, yet still fiercely independent, side of Adell. The title itself is a cheeky twist on the classic country trope, and the song’s narrative is both relatable and empowering. The production, a collective effort from the Bartolini brothers, Liam Kevany, and Andrew Baylis, is a masterclass in subtlety. The song builds slowly, with a hypnotic rhythm and ethereal synths that create a dreamy, almost cinematic, atmosphere.
The energy kicks back up with “Tap That,” co-written with Nate Campany, Elizabeth McQuiston, and Patrick Mencel. This song is pure, unadulterated fun. It’s a bop, a dance-floor filler with an infectious beat and a chorus that’s impossible not to sing along to. The production team, including Cambo and Louis Bartolini, Liam Kevany, and Patrick Mencel, has crafted a soundscape that is both slick and expansive. The track’s pop sensibilities are front and center, but a clever use of guitar riffs and a driving rhythm keeps it from straying too far from its country roots.
The sampler closes with the poignant “Do Angels Drink Whiskey,” another track penned entirely by Adell. This song is a beautiful and introspective moment, a thoughtful rumination on love, loss, and the eternal questions we all face. The production is sparse and delicate, allowing Adell’s raw, emotive vocals to take center stage. This track showcases a depth and maturity in her songwriting that hints at the rich lyrical tapestry we can expect from her in the future. It’s a quiet, powerful end to a collection that is otherwise filled with bangers.
Don’t Pet (Sampler) is more than just a collection of songs; it’s a statement of intent. Tanner Adell is not just a singer; she is a storyteller, a pop visionary with a country heart. This release proves that she is an artist who listens to her fans, trusts her instincts, and isn’t afraid to break the mold. It’s a perfect snapshot of an artist at the peak of her powers, and it leaves us begging for more.
Don’t Pet (Sampler) Tracklist:
- “Giddy Up Gorgeous” (written by Tanner Adell)
- Produced by Cambo Bartolini, Liam Kevany
- “Side Peach” (written by Tanner Adell, Andrew Baylis, Michael Whitworth)
- Produced by Cambo Bartolini, Louis Bartolini, Liam Kevany, Andrew Baylis
- “Tap That” (written by Tanner Adell, Nate Campany, Elizabeth McQuiston, Patrick Mencel)
- Produced by Cambo Bartolini, Louis Bartolini, Liam Kevany, Patrick Mencel
- “Do Angels Drink Whiskey” (written by Tanner Adell)
- Produced by Cambo Bartolini, Liam Kevany