Nate Smith refuses to be confined by genre labels. The Paradise, California native, who boasts over 2 billion career streams and three No. 1 country hits, released his sophomore album, California Gold, on October 4. This 16-track project sees Smith boldly experimenting with genre-crossing sounds, from rock to EDM, showcasing a dynamic range reminiscent of Charlie Daniels’ iconic musical battles.
Among the standout tracks are “I Like It,” a collaboration with EDM powerhouse Alesso, and his second duet with Avril Lavigne, “Can You Die from a Broken Heart.” Smith also delivers hard-hitting rock tracks reminiscent of earlier hits like “Bulletproof,” “Whiskey on You,” and “World on Fire.”
Smith explained his vision for the album’s heavier tracks. “When we were working on songs like ‘Goodbye Again’ and ‘What Alone Looks Like,’ I told my producer, there’s not enough guitars here,” Smith said. “We need heavier, baritone guitars. It has to hit harder.”
Smith and producer Lindsay Rimes worked relentlessly, layering and refining the sounds until Smith was confident they had achieved their rock-infused edge. The result is a collection that unapologetically amplifies his rock influence while retaining the heart and soul of country music’s best choruses.
Related Topics
Sodom Unleashes Remastered Single and Video for “Wachturm”
Tony Iommi Names Deep Purple’s “In Rock” as His Top Album
Sandveiss Ignites the Scene with New Album “Standing in the Fire”
