I’m not telling any secrets when I say that the first time most of us heard Miles Miller sing, he was contributing backup vocals on Tyler Childers’ debut album. While the last several years of Miles Miller’s life have been spent behind the kit backing another titan of the alt-country world in Sturgill Simpson, the first time that I heard Miles sing and thought, “why isn’t this guy putting out material of his own?” was an Instagram post, singing a Don Williams song. Luckily, for all of us the universe was apparently whispering the same thing in his ear.
There’s something quintessentially Kentucky about the release of the somehow seasoned and still young veteran of the road. Produced by Sturgill Simpson, the record is littered with sounds that are familiar and also feel fresh given the current landscape of country music. I don’t know how you could miss sonic references to Keith Whitley in this record. There’s a cleanliness and sharpness to this record that immediately calls this fellow Kentucky native’s work to mind.

In the recent movements of country music, artists have leaned on the “outlaw/alt” feel in order to cash in on appeal; this record never steers into that territory. Instead, this record relies on the traditions of Bluegrass and gospel. There’s an authenticity in the way that this record comes together in that it’s an amalgamation of influences without forcing any of them into a box to make the record feel complete.

Miles is in an interesting position with this release. He’s associated with two acts that are goliaths in the current non-radio country music landscape. A lot of people will show up because of his association with Tyler, and some will show up for his association with Sturgill, but thankfully Miles has firmly planted his feet on a patch of earth that he can call his own. It’s clear that Miles has a lot to say, choosing to do so following his first love in playing guitar and singing. There’s a quiet lonesomeness on this record that cuts deep without relying on gimmick.

Miles doesn’t shy away from his background, his faith, his voice, his talent and there’s a bravery in the way this record is put together. I hope people who came looking for something else stay to appreciate what they find instead. When people pull their “country cred” card, they lean on tropes and stereotype themselves. Miles instead just tells the truth, in his voice, with his words and for anyone who digs in they have a host of beautifully sculpted music in store. I’ll say the controversial: this is the most country music record I’ve heard in a very long time.

Lyrically, the record is full of (I hope you’ll forgive me, kind reader) Solid Gold. The lead single, sharing the title of the record. A simple, longing love song, opening with, “I got to get on back to you, let my sins unfold / Show me what I want to see, baby it’s solid gold,” carries a classic groove that is immediately inviting, and if you aren’t moving to this song, see a therapist, a doctor, just seek medical help, because the groove in this track is so deep you could get lost and never find your way out.

‘Highway Shoes” is a self-proclaimed love song about the road; knowing that there’s a toughness and bitterness to the road. Instead of getting lost in the darkness of that, it explores the freedom and joy of directionless, hazy town to town living.

“Seeing Clear” reminds you after a few slower songs, that Miles Miller’s sense of “the pocket” is second to none. A rhythm section that could live in any Motown record. There’s a bouncy joy here that almost forces you to smile. It’s an example of the exposure of this young man with an old soul who has experienced being on the road backing an ever evolving band.

Make no mistake, this is a breakout where we are having the pleasure of experiencing a man coming into his own. An exploration of a new voice. A new beautiful landscape painted with a palette gathered throughout a series of classic works. Oscillating back and forth from classic Kentucky country, to bouncy rhythmic art. It’s a truly unique record that doesn’t pretend to be anything it isn’t, and basks in the glow of everything it is.

Solid Gold drops shortly after Independence Day on July 7th. Take the opportunity to recover with an album that expresses sorrow and joy, celebration and longing. It’s time you won’t want back!

Find out more about Miles at the links below:

Spotify