1. Entertainment

James Otto - Sunset Man

About.com Rating 4.5 Star Rating
Be the first to write a review

From

James Otto - Sunset Man

James Otto - Sunset Man

Warner Nashville
Bottom Line:

As a member of the Muzik Mafia, James Otto has served his time and finally has his chance to shine. He brings a fresh new sound to country music. He generates a mixture of classic rock and modern country that attracts fans from all spectrums. Even if you've never heard of James Otto, you need to give him a chance. People will be gathering from all over the globe once his new album Sunset Man is heard.

Have you ever heard a new singer that just grabs your attention? It's not that there is anything specific that stands out, it's just you tune in on them and realize just how much talent they have. Although James Otto has been around for years, many people, myself included, have overlooked him until now. He brings to life a whole new meaning of rockin'.

Once I had the record in my hand, it was headed for the CD player. James had some special friends help him out when producing this album. John Rich lent his magic, but so did Rascal Flatts' member Jay DeMarcus. Having these two guys in your corner will prove to be a big help.

The first song off this album is a great tune called "Ain't Gonna Stop," which could also be his theme song. He has had some rough times, and just when it looked like he was going to shoot to the top, something would happen. Hearing this song, you will understand that no matter what gets in his way, James will never give up. It's great to see a newer artist remain true to himself and keep his dreams shining bright.

The debut single off this record seems to be playing on every country radio station you turn to. "Just Got Started Loving You" is turning into a fan favorite. This is one of those songs that may never hit number one, but it needs to. It's already in the Top 5, so it has a great chance. If you've already heard this song and love it, the album is just as good.

James slows it down quite a bit on "For You." This is a tough tune. As soon as it starts, it's obvious that the meaning is much deeper than the title. You can hear the similarities that James and Gary Allan share in their musical styles. This is a song about a man who has always said he would do anything for his better half. Well, now things are over and she wants him to move on. He explains to her that she's "asking too much." If you're a fan of great country music, this will be a classic.

Speeding it up a bit on "These Are The Good Ole Days," James describes that there is no looking back on the past, the good times are right now. This is not one of the best tunes on the album, but it is worth mentioning.

If you're looking for a song that will bring tears to your eyes, "Where Angels Hang Around" will do it. Trying to describe this song is tough. It's about a family who is driving back and forth to children's hospital with their child in the back. He describes that "one word knocked our lives off track and one word keeps us coming back." When describing the hospital, it's never called St. Jude or the Ronald McDonald House, but simply "a place where angels hang around."

"Drink & Dial" is a great party song. When you have a friend that is guilty of calling people when they're drunk, you really understand how true this song is. Some people are fine until they get some "liquid" courage. James is an awesome country artist and if your mind is not made up, go out and get his new album Sunset Man, you'll change your mind.

Release Date - April 8th, 2008 - Warner Brothers Records

Song List:

  1. Ain't Gonna Stop
  2. Just Got Started Loving You
  3. For You
  4. These Are The Good Ole Days
  5. Where Angels Hang Around
  6. Sunset Man
  7. You Don't Act Like My Woman
  8. When A Woman's Not Watching
  9. Drink & Dial
  10. Damn Right
  11. The Man That I Am

©2012 About.com. All rights reserved.

A part of The New York Times Company.