Nate Smith – California Gold

Introduction

Released on October 4th, *California Gold* marks an exciting addition to Nate Smith’s discography. As a subscriber to SiriusXM, I’ve become quite familiar with Smith’s impressive catalog, which consistently delivers engaging tracks. While my knowledge of his work has mostly come from radio hits, I’m eager to dive into this album, particularly because I know it showcases his rock-influenced style, especially evident in songs like “Bulletproof.” In this post, I’ve compiled a list of my favorite tracks from the album, along with brief insights into what makes each one stand out.

Want Me Back

This track captivates with its relatable message and infectious vibe. The line, “Take whatever you want, baby, I just want me back,” resonates deeply and reflects a sentiment often expressed in songs by female artists. It’s refreshing to hear a male perspective that acknowledges similar feelings, breaking away from the traditional narrative that often idolizes women.

Can You Die from a Broken Heart 

Naturally, this song features Avril Lavigne, whose talent for duets is unmatched. The opening lines “My flowers in the hallways died about two weeks ago, and just like you, I didn’t have the heart to see them go” set a poignant tone. Nate Smith masterfully transitions from laid-back melodies to raw, gritty emotion, showcasing his ability to convey depth and intensity throughout the track. 

Carry You Home

The rhythmic guitar at the start immediately grabs your attention, laying down a captivating groove. The verse features intriguing vocal runs that hint at a rap influence, offering a fresh sound. Smith paints an exciting picture of the thrill that comes with meeting someone new in the city, making this track an exhilarating listen.

Perfect

Describing what makes this song exceptional is a challenge, as it excels in all areas. The lyrics are relatable, painting a picture many men can connect with. Smith’s emotional delivery is spot-on, and everything flows seamlessly. It captures the struggle many face when viewing themselves as imperfect compared to the seemingly angelic figures in their lives.

Goodbye Again 

I love the rock-infused energy of this song, which features impressive lead guitar work. As a guitarist myself, I appreciate the skillful playing here. I aimed to highlight newer tracks, and this one stands out with its dynamic guitar parts, making it a refreshing choice amidst his radio hits.

Not of This Earth

The rhythm guitar in this track is simply outstanding. I’m eager to learn how to replicate it on my own guitar. The lyrics are both creative and well-constructed, with the memorable line, “Deeper than oceans and sweeter than words, the way that you love me is not of this earth.” Nate Smith’s vocal phrasing adds an extra layer of richness to the song.

Faith

With the line, “I lost hope on a Friday night, found grace, almost made her mine. Tonight, I need a little faith,” this track stands out as one of my favorites. Although the song as a whole is solid, that lyric truly elevates it in my eyes.

Bittersweet 

Among the ballads on the album, this one shines as the standout. Its composition is beautiful, melodic, and deeply moving. This song evokes the strongest emotions for me, making it perfect for moments of reflection, even if it may leave you feeling a bit melancholy.

Gave It All

Coming from a rock and metal background, I’m drawn to upbeat, aggressive songs, and this track delivers just that. It’s my favorite on the album, with a catchy melody and an energetic chorus that stirs the soul.  

I Like It (Party Song)

For those who love to celebrate, this track is the perfect anthem. While I don’t have much to add, it fits seamlessly into any club or bar setting, promising a fun time.

Summary 

Selecting standout tracks from *California Gold* was a challenging task because the entire album is filled with quality. While “I Like It” might not resonate with me personally, it’s clear that Nate Smith is an underrated artist. With only 170k subscribers on YouTube, it’s astonishing given his remarkable talent. As one of the leading new voices in country music, his ability to convey genuine emotion makes every song memorable. I highly recommend giving this album a listen, regardless of your preferred genre, as Smith expertly blends elements of rock and metal throughout.