There is nothing better than coming across a new metalcore or deathcore release that is full of breakdowns, blast beats, and all-around hardcore vibes. That being said, having lived in Texas for over 5 years now, country is slowly starting to grow on me. I won't lie and tell you I am a hardcore country fan, but I think I found just the thing that might convert me. International superstar Yelawolf and rising country star J. Michael Phillips are teaming up to release the collab album of the decade. The album, Whiskey & Roses, showcases the hip-hop and country musical ability of both artists, staying true to the roots of the music while sprinkling in a breath of freshness that sets this album apart in the vast sea of music. None of the ten songs on the album seem fake or forced for the sake of streams, as both artists give it their all in this recording process.
When this album came across my lap, I truly didn't know what to expect. I've been familiar with Yelawolf for a few years now due to his work with Eminem back in the 2010s and his joint EP with Travis Barker back in 2012, but I really don't know all that much about the artist. The same holds true for J. Michael Phillips. With just one full-length album released back in 2023, the artist has already amassed a few hundred thousand monthly listeners on Spotify alone, so I obviously had some work to do.
I would have to say this genre-blending joint album has the makings of being the next Collision Course EP, as Yelawolf and J. Michael Phillips seem as though they were destined to make this album. From the vocal styles to the tone to the country/hip-hop rhythm present across the entire album, any music fan can see this is a masterfully done recording. Each lyric, each note, and each sound on this album seems as though an immense amount of time, thought, and consideration was taken to ensure a worthwhile result. Take the song "I Swear." Simply put, it is an absolute banger as feelings of Outlaw Country through J. Michael Phillips' low voice and poetic singing dance in contrast to the upbeat feelings of Yelawolf's rapping and singing. You cannot tell me that this song wouldn't be used in an action movie as the hero is ready to take on the villain after a tough defeat in the first act. The cinematic music video that accompanies the song is also nothing short of amazing, as I find myself getting lost each and every time I watch it.
The only thing that could possibly make this EP release any better would be the potential to hear a few of these songs played live. For many fans, this might just be a reality since the two are on tour right now. Tickets to see Yelawolf and J. Michael Phillips on the 45 Tour can be found here.
