Tim Easton’s 2013 album Not Cool is a refreshing dive into the world of folk, Nashville country, and Americana music. With a collection of poignant songs that capture the essence of life, Easton delivers an engaging and heartfelt musical experience. Recorded over five days in 2013, Not Cool is the album that Easton says is his best album from start to finish. It’s no wonder, as the album spans a wide range of emotions and themes, from personal reflection to societal commentary, all expertly showcased through his evocative songwriting. Long out of print, Not Cool is being reissued for its tenth anniversary by Black Mesa Records along with Easton’s debut Special 20.
The album opens with “Don’t Lie,” a captivating folk-country ballad that sets the tone for the entire record. Easton’s raspy yet tender voice draws you in, as he laments the pain of deceit. The song’s acoustic instrumentation and relatable lyrics make it an instant standout on the album. On “Troubled Time,” a country dancehall beat backs Easton’s distinctive vocals as he sings ‘Troubled times, don’t worry/I’ll love you even when you’re down.’ Throughout Not Cool, Easton’s songwriting shines brightly. His lyrics are filled with honest introspection and personal reflections. ‘I just put another state or three in-between me and my sweet one’s bed/I’m not in the mood for talking and my hand cannot by lead’ he sings on “Tired And Hungry.” This sense of self-exploration and introspection adds depth to the album and resonates with listeners on a profound level.
The album also displays Easton’s musical versatility. Tracks like “Four Queens” and “They Will Bury You” lean more towards the blues, with their riff-laden guitar strumming, stripped-down instrumentation and raw emotional delivery. In contrast, “Lickety Split” and “Crazy Motherfucker From Shelby, Ohio” incorporate elements of rock and roll, showcasing a full-band sound that adds energy and excitement to the record. The title track is a beautiful, stripped-down track where Easton sings of the loss of a relationship due to deceit and mistrust. The production quality on Not Cool is top-notch, allowing each instrument and vocal nuance to shine through. The album maintains a warm and organic sound that complements Easton’s songwriting style. Whether it’s the twang of a slide guitar or the punch of a drumbeat, every element feels meticulously crafted.
Tim Easton’s “Not Cool” is a captivating album that showcases his songwriting prowess and musical versatility. The album’s blend of folk, country, Americana, and blues elements results in a diverse and emotionally resonant collection of songs. It’s an emotionally charged and introspective journey through the heartland of American music, and it’s sure to resonate with fans of Americana, folk, and indie rock. With its genuine storytelling and well-crafted melodies, the reissue of Not Cool is an album that deserves a place in your music collection.
