Brooks & Dunn Return with ‘Reboot II’: A Journey Through Country Classics

Brooks & Dunn, one of country music’s most iconic duos, have released a new album titled «Reboot II.» This marks their first album of new material since 2007’s «Cowboy Town.» Recognized for their substantial contribution to country music, the duo has capitalized on their impressive catalog by inviting the biggest names in today’s music scene to breathe new life into their classic hits.

«Reboot II» is the follow-up to the successful «Reboot» released in 2019. The latest album reimagines 18 of their classic tracks, with artists such as Morgan Wallen and Riley Green lending their voices. This concept allows contemporary stars to offer their interpretations of Brooks & Dunn’s most beloved songs like «Neon Moon» and «She Used to Be Mine.» As Ronnie Dunn describes, the project adhered to a «no rules» philosophy, allowing artists creative freedom in their renditions.

Some of the standout performances on the album include Megan Moroney‘s take on «Ain’t Nothing ’Bout You,» which transforms the song into an emotive, piano-driven ballad. Dunn, at 71, still showcases his vocal prowess, complementing Moroney’s style. Wallen’s interpretation of «Neon Moon» strips back his usual bravado to embrace the song’s themes of solitude and reflection.

Other noteworthy performances include Riley Green’s melancholy rendition of «She Used to Be Mine» and Mitchell Tenpenny’s soulful version of «That Ain’t No Way to Go.» These tracks emphasize emotion over the traditional country bravado, offering fresh takes on the classics. Meanwhile, Jake Worthington and Anderson East stay true to their roots with faithful renditions reminiscent of 90s country.

The album also explores experimental avenues with some tracks. The Cadillac Three reinterprets «She Likes to Get Out of Town» with a unique, slower tempo, while the Earls of Leicester offer a bluegrass touch to «How Long Gone.» Halestorm’s version of «Red Dirt Road,» featuring Lzzy Hale’s powerful vocals, stands out as an exhilarating entry.

However, not all experiments hit the mark. Artists like Hardy and Warren Zeiders deliver less successful reworks of «Hillbilly Deluxe» and «Brand New Man,» respectively, with arrangements that fall short of capturing the originals’ spirit.

«Reboot II» is not without its critiques. Some argue that its extensive tracklist, featuring 18 songs, results in a scattered experience. Six songs are repeated from 2019’s «Reboot,» inviting questions about the necessity of re-treading old ground.

Despite these criticisms, «Reboot II» exhibits Brooks & Dunn’s willingness to collaborate with new talent, pushing the boundaries of traditional country music while celebrating its roots. According to Rolling Stone, Ronnie Dunn expressed hopes for exploring new horizons beyond relying on past successes.