New Relics continue W.Va.’s music tradition with new album

Despite being a small, rural state, West Virginia seems to consistently produce some of the most talented country music entertainers in America.

With renowned acts like Brad Paisley, Bill Withers and Little Jimmy Dickens calling the Mountain State home, musical talent seems to flow through this state like Natural Light flowing through a Mountaineer football tailgate participant.

One band (whose roots delve deep into the Morgantown landscape) attempting to get its name listed among the likes of Paisley, is The New Relics.

The New Relics have been performing in the Morgantown area since its inception.

However, the group has yet to reach critical and commercial acclaim in the rough and tumble Nashville music scene.

The group is hoping to change its fortunes with its latest release, "Monongalia."

With a title paying homage to their home county, "Monongalia," The New Relics attempt to bring its down-home country sound to mainstream audiences.

The final result is a pleasant country music effort.

Showcasing country sounds reminiscent of modern day acts like Pat Green and Keith Urban, The New Relics have thrown out all stops on this album – at least in regard to perfecting its sound – and it really shows.

One song I believe showcases The New Relics better than most is "Middle America."

Describing U.S. small towns as "four churches, three stoplights and a bar," The New Relics show signs of a group on the rise in the song.

With lyrics one would expect in a John Mellencamp album, the group really makes the song true to its title, utilizing an interesting choice of lyrics that conjure up images of small town life.

Another song that really seems to jump to the top on this album is "Shotgun," a simple country/southern rock anthem that takes into account the American tradition of long road trips with somebody you love.

"Shotgun" stands out to me the most as a possible breakout single for the group. With a catchy melody, great lyrics and an impressive concept, it is a song you should be hearing on the radio soon enough.

The New Relics seem to encompass every section of country music – from the slow, catchy ballad "Fast Lane," to the high-tempo "Shotgun" and everywhere in-between.

While the album has its flaws, – there are overused cliches throughout, and a few songs sound extremely similar to one another – "Monongalia" is an impressive effort for the local group.

A few more performances like this and who knows how successful The New Relics will be.

It's just another success story based in the hills of "West By God Virginia."