CD REVIEW: Tim McGraw’s ‘Damn Country Music’ a celebration of his heritage

Tim McGraw

“Damn Country Music” (releases Nov. 6)

Big Machine

Louisiana’s most famous son fires up the country barbecue once again with “Damn Country Music,” a celebration, not a damnation, of the Southern strains that made Tim McGraw one of country’s most popular darlings. Album kicks off with the celebratory “Here Tonight,” featuring Mr. McGraw’s talented 18-year-old daughter, Gracie, on duet with her famous pop and doing the family name proud. “How I’ll Always Be” is an unapolegtic celebration of the Southern-fried lifestyle favored by Mr. McGraw and so many of those who helped make him a music icon. The tune features such gem lyrics as: “I’m a little more Hank Williams than that indie crap. … Fast cars and motorycles and raising hell in cowboy boots.” Other highlights include the love song “What You’re Looking For,” the optimistic “Top of the World” and “California,” an uptempo ode to the Golden State featuring Big & Rich on vocal backup. “Humble and Kind” is a lulling confection that closes out the album with the conclusion that, in the midst of phenomenal success like Mr. McGraw’s, humility and gentility can indeed keep you grounded.