I’ve been known to say that when listening to music I listen for songwriting first, then vocals, then the music itself. When all three are outstanding in one musician or musical act, it’s something special. Nashville native Gabe Lee released Honky Tonk Hell, his sophomore album, on March 13, 2020, and something special happened.

The follow up to his praised 2019 debut album, farmland, demonstrates Lee as a singer-songwriter with staying power. Even with its strong lyrics and impressive vocals, farmland feels like a warm up to Honky Tonk Hell. The 11-track album is a fusion of classic country, southern rock, and soul that still feels cohesive. Lee’s seemingly effortless vocals emphasize the storytelling of living in Nashville, being a musician, and experiencing heartbreak.

The title track, co-written by Marcus King, fits the bill as an outlaw country anthem, feeling a bit rowdy and gritty. The lyric, “seats reserved for all the folks down in Nashville writing phonyass country songs,” gives a hint of how they feel about the quality of mainstream country.

Lee shows a softer side with the waltz, “Piece of Your Heart.” The vocals on “Babylon” feel comfortable – like something one would listen to on a long drive. Both are songs about a type of heartbreak, just from different perspectives. “Heartbreak doesn’t necessarily have to apply to romantic love,” said Lee. "[It can be] the relationship between an individual and a community, family, and society.” “Heartbreaker’s Smile” is a song most will find relatable – continuing to revere someone who brings us heartache.

The big sound of horns and piano are matched by Lee’s powerful vocals in “Great Big River,” which gives a nod to gospel influence, asking to be cleansed of past sins. The beautiful production by David Dorn and Alex Torrez enhance the authenticity of Lee’s vocals, and the impressive instrumentation found throughout includes organ, steel guitar, harmonica and lap steel, among others.

“30 Seconds at a Time” tells three stories connected by the realization that nothing is here to stay. It’s a good representation of the album as a whole, intertwining musical styles and stories for a cohesive album. Lee said the album is “about the relationship of the songwriter to the scene, the thrill and the burden — the heaven, the hell — and all in between.”

Lee’s parents immigrated from Taiwan to pursue higher education and eventually landed in Nashville, where he was raised. His mother is a classically trained pianist, an influence evident in many tracks, perhaps none more than “Emmylou.” It’s the first song Lee wrote on the piano – something he should definitely do again and often. The absolute heartbreak of someone you just can’t forget is beautifully executed with the lyrics: “I can see the tattoo on your shoulders / every night that mockingbird still haunts my dreams / He gets to chirping and a calling whenever I’m not around / Raggin on me every time he sings.” Lee’s impressive vocal range punctuates the angst of the song. This will be one played again and again.

Lee’s classical music training is evident in his precise vocals and instrumentation. Lee also cites classic rock influences like Bob Dylan, Fleetwood Mac and Creedence Clearwater Revival. The latter is heard in “Susannah.” The upbeat song allows the listener to determine exactly who or what Susannah is in the series of unfortunate events. “Imogene” isn’t a who but a where - a tiny town where someone is trying to survive. It was inspired by a town that burned down several times and never had more than 100 residents.

Country music isn’t lacking in songs about dogs, but few have the dog as the narrator. While maybe not as introspective as some of the other tracks, “All Dogs Go to Heaven” is a mischievous song all dog lovers will appreciate. After losing one of my beloved canines last month, it especially made me smile.

A fitting closing song, “Blue Ridge Goodbye” isn’t so much about a heartbreaking goodbye, but about saying goodbye to a former self, seeking growth. “In this short stretch of time, we’ve shared this old ride / And I sure do hope to see you again," is a great analogy of the album as a whole. Lee takes us on a beautiful musical ride and we hope to hear from him for years to come.

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