Finding Freedom in the Backwoods: Thomas Rhett’s ‘ABOUT A WOMAN (& A Good Ol’ Boy)’
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
Multi-platinum country star Thomas Rhett continues his mission to keep fans’ playlists fresh with the release of his second set of three new tunes, ABOUT A WOMAN (& A Good Ol’ Boy). The EP sees the artist reveling in a rootsy abandon, blending mood-boosting reflection, gratitude, and good-timing mischief into a playful and daring form of freeform country. This collection showcases a more uninhibited side of Rhett, embracing a sound that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly modern.
The EP kicks off with “Ain’t a Bad Life,” a soulful collaboration with Jordan Davis that flashes an uncommon depth. The track taps into the sunset-level beauty of ’70s Southern rock, with a laid-back, grooving melody that feels like a slow drive down a backroad at dusk. Thomas Rhett trades the rat race for a profound sense of contentment, finding true wealth not in a bank account, but in simple pleasures and a 12-string guitar. The song is a sun-drenched anthem of gratitude, a reminder to slow down and appreciate the richness of a life lived on your own terms.
Next up is the joyful sing-along, “Old Tricks,” featuring the unmistakable voice of Blake Shelton. This track is a lively, feel-good tune that toasts to honky-tonk hangovers and youthful memories. While Rhett may be “wiser by the day,” the song confirms he is still young at heart, ready to let loose and embrace the joyful messiness of a good time. Shelton’s contribution adds a perfect dose of seasoned country swagger, making the song feel like a timeless anthem of camaraderie and good-spirited mischief.
The EP concludes with the flirtatious stomp-and-clap banger, “Bottle With Your Name On It.” This song is a shining example of Rhett’s signature small-town funk, a playful track that evokes the spirit of a “backwoods Bruno Mars.” With its infectious rhythm and swaggering charm, the song is a confident and lively expression of pure, unadulterated fun. It’s the kind of track that commands a dance floor and leaves you with a smile on your face, solidifying Thomas Rhett’s place as a master of crafting feel-good anthems.
ABOUT A WOMAN (& A Good Ol’ Boy) serves as more than just a musical stopgap; it’s a statement of artistic freedom. Thomas Rhett demonstrates his versatility, effortlessly moving from soulful reflection to joyful celebration. This EP is a perfect summer soundtrack, proving that even as a seasoned star, Thomas Rhett is still capable of surprising his audience with a raw, rootsy, and beautifully unpolished sound.