For over 25 years, Massachusetts native, Aaron Lewis, lead vocalist, guitarist, singer and songwriter has been known for being a founding member of Alternative Rock group Staind. Over the years he has released seven albums with the band making them a fan favorite in the world of Rock music.
In 2011, Lewis decided to get his feet wet and step into the world of Country music with his first solo EP, Town Line. It would be a year later when he would debut his full length Country album, The Road. Although, since the age of seventeen Lewis has performed solo shows acoustically and still does, with the start of his Country career he has embarked on pursuing a passion and love of the genre of music.
Lewis released his latest album, Sinner, on September 16, 2016. What makes the new material special is most of it was tracked with one take during an eighteen hour recording session. Some of the unreleased songs were performed during live shows during his set while on tour during The Road.
Sinner is a true Country album. Lewis seems to truly understand and love the music that he grew up hearing played during his youth. From the first song and title track off the album “Sinner” featuring the legendary Willie Nelson it showcases duets and amazing harmonizing while including some stunning sliding guitar and even a harmonica breakdown.
Keeping with the theme of true Country Western sound tracks “Whiskey and You” along with “Lost and Lonely” will be fan favorites of the traditional sound. Speaking of fan favorites, for those fans who want a little more Rock vibe “That Ain’t Country” and “Northern Redneck” will get listeners on their feet. The two songs provide upbeat and double time guitar playing, slide guitars, steady bass and percussion mixed in with some sarcasm.
Lewis gives a more personal view into his life and upbringing with “Mama” and “Stuck in these Shoes” which seem to embrace the true nature of traditional Country songs musically and lyrically with a bit of sadness mixed into these heartfelt tunes. Lewis gives a very honest and raw view of what life has been like.
The last song on the album, “Travelin’ Solider” seems to be fitting and an emotional ending to Sinner. It might be Lewis’ prize piece. Not only is the song a stunning tribute to the troops and that special someone who loves them, but the song feature’s Lewis’, 13 year old daughter, Zoe. Her stunning voice cares the powerful message with grace and strength mixed with her father’s alongside her.
Lewis has been praised over the years for his personal, honest and emotional lyrics and music as a singer and songwriter. However he has seemed to have found his niche by channeling his strong and powerful lyrical content mixed with traditional Country and Rock alike with Sinner. Lewis although hailing from the New England, has a heart rooted in the South with embracing the true Country sound and tradition of the music.
