Canadian/Australian country artist Robert Ross returns with his latest single, “Drink ‘Em Down,” from his anticipated sophomore album, “Better With Time.” With a release date set for July 26, 2024, Ross continues to echo the rustic vibes of North American country music, blending his unique bi-continental influences into a song that’s both refreshingly genuine and profoundly relatable.
“Drink ‘Em Down” identifies itself as a classic country tune, both in melody and subject matter. Its lyrics narrate the timeless theme of heartbreak and the attempt to drown sorrows in alcohol, a storyline that country music has long embraced and celebrated. The song commences with a situation familiar to many – the shock and betrayal of love lost, discovered through the painful revelation of a partner’s infidelity.
Ross’s songwriting shines through in “Drink ‘Em Down,” demonstrating his ability to draw on personal experiences and transform them into universally relatable stories. The lyrical journey in this single is profound yet accessible, as Ross juxtaposes his emotional ordeal against a backdrop of traditional country music elements. His choice of simple yet poignant phrases like, “Well, she was here but now she’s gone,” and “Long as her memory hangs around, just set em up and I’ll drink em down,” captures the raw emotion of coping with lingering memories.
“Drink Em Down” by Robert Ross delves into the classic theme of heartbreak and the struggle to move on after betrayal. The lyrics portray a man drowning his sorrows in alcohol to numb the pain of a love lost, betrayed by a partner he once trusted. The repetition of “drink ’em down” emphasizes his determination to forget, using drinking as a temporary escape. The vivid storytelling captures the emotional turmoil, from disbelief to the desperate attempt to “chase that hurtin’ outta town.” The song’s raw honesty and relatable narrative make it resonate with anyone who’s faced heartache.
Beyond the lyrics, Ross’s vocal delivery is both gritty and tender, perfect for the theme of the song. His voice carries the weight of the narrative, with a timbre that seems to have lived through the lyrics he sings. This authenticity is paramount in country music, and Ross delivers with a performance that feels both worn and spirited.
Musically, “Drink ‘Em Down” is rooted in classic country instrumentation. The twang of the guitar and the melancholic wail of the steel guitar envelop Ross’s vocals in a warm, familiar embrace. The composition sticks to traditional country structures, which works to the song’s advantage by not complicating the direct emotional delivery of the lyrics.
Interestingly, the song also includes a vibrant guitar solo that adds a layer of complexity to the otherwise straightforward musical narrative. This solo acts as a moment of catharsis, mirroring the lyrical themes of drinking to forget and the chaotic swirl of emotions that follow a painful breakup.
The production, handled by Gil Grand, an award-winning artist and producer, complements Ross’s vision perfectly. It’s polished enough to appeal to modern listeners while retaining enough raw edges to keep it grounded in the roots of country music. Grand’s experience in the industry and his understanding of the genre’s core values play a crucial role in bringing out the best in Ross’s vocal and lyrical expressions.
“Drink ‘Em Down” is not just a song but an experience. It’s a musical journey through heartache and recovery, a common human experience told through the unique lens of Robert Ross’s cross-cultural background. This single is likely to resonate with anyone who has faced the pain of lost love, providing a soundtrack for those who find solace in music.
Ultimately, Robert Ross’s “Drink ‘Em Down” is an exemplary piece of modern country music that respects its roots while speaking directly to the contemporary listener. It’s a track that aims to be a standout in his forthcoming album, “Better With Time.” Ross has indeed shown that like fine wine, his musical craftsmanship only improves as time passes, setting high expectations for his future works.
Published By: Aize Perez
