Ronnie Dunn '100 Proof Neon' Album Review

Ronnie Dunn, one-half of the iconic duo Brooks & Dunn, has released his brand new solo album 100 Proof Neon. Dunn successfully reimagines the current country landscape with every song on the record.

Dunn has released solo material before; his first album came out in 2011. Three more LPs would follow. The singer of course made his name by working alongside Kix Brooks. The duo became one of the best-selling acts of the '90s, generating several memorable hit songs. Dunn's dynamic vocals have always been loved by fans, so his solo material is never bound to disappoint.

"This is an album i've wanted to make for a long time. I purposely reached for late '80s / '90s country. Honky Tonks, whiskey, neon lights, and lost love," shared Dunn via Instagram. Lost love is felt on the track "Somethin I Can't Have." The violin throughout the song with the soaring melody makes you feel every line Dunn sings. It's about wanting someone so desperately, but being unable to attain them.

"Road To Abilene" featuring superstar in the making Parker McCollum is the perfect drifter song. There are many great country songs that include cities where love runs deep, and this can be added to the list. McCollum adds his signature vocals to capture the essence of this track. "She's Why I Drink Whiskey" takes the heartache theme to the next level. "That song playing on the jukebox / Keeps tearing at my heart / That's why all those empty glasses / are lined up on the bar."

The aura shines bright on "Where The Neon Lies." The melody alone will stay in your head long after you stop listening. "Cause I believe she'll come back in time, where the neon lies." Dunn is able to bring back the nostalgic sounds and make them contemporary. This will be marked as one of the most cohesive albums of the year.

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