| Trace Adkins As he has gained autonomy, Trace Adkins has proven his ability to cut consistently first-rate country music that is both aesthetically and commercially viable, and the resulting trajectory is unmistakable. "I've never had this much momentum," he says, relishing the moment even as he looks for ways to build on it. At a time when the Louisiana native's engine is hitting on all cylinders, it's no surprise his new CD represents yet another major step forward. Dangerous Man is a collection that proves once again that Trace is a master both of the rowdy-that place where fun, sexy and rocking come together-and of the searingly honest slice of life. Working with a team that includes producers Frank Rogers and Dann Huff, songwriters Craig Wiseman, Rivers Rutherford, Tony Lane and Racal Flatts' Jay Demarcus, and a stellar crop of Nashville's top session players, Trace has strengthened his position as one of country music's most versatile and powerful artists. That versatility is once again strongly in evidence. With "Ladies Love Country Boys," "Swing," "Southern Hallelujah" and the title cut, Trace is back in the territory that has made his rowdy take on love and romance a staple of honky-tonks, dance floors and video screens. Then there are songs like "Words Get in the Way" and "I Wanna Feel Something," in which he explores that place in the male psyche that recognizes and struggles to rise above its own limitations, reaching out in pure need across the chasm that can exist between a man and a woman. "The Stubborn One" and "I Came Here to Live" are Trace at his emotional best, bridging generations to talk about those things we take from and give to each other, and the beautiful bond those interactions build through time. Through it all, Trace proves himself again to be one of the most engaging singers in the industry, with an eye for songs that draw power both from their sweep and from their telling details. In addition, Trace makes his debut as a producer, teaming in that role with Casey Beathard and Kenny Beard on "I Wanna Feel Something."
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