Sam Outlaw's new wave-inspired record 'Popular Mechanics' is due on November 12th, and today (10.8), he's sharing another preview of what to expect from the ambitious project with the release of "Sun Ain't Set." Written solely by Outlaw and produced by Cheyenne Medders, the song is a prime example of Outlaw's creative evolution. A folk-rooted tune with an aesthetic makeover, the track pairs fretless bass and subtle synths with an effortless, Lauper-inspired hook that feels just as fresh as it is nostalgic.
"This story is all about choice -- specifically, that each one of us can decide to linger in the pain of the past, or process it, learn from it, and step out into the new day," Outlaw explains. "The lyrics took on new meaning during the seemingly endless 'Groundhog Day' effect of the COVID lockdown, and after reworking the track with Cheyenne [Medders], we ended up with a pop song that perfectly fits into the album's ecosystem, while also staying true to my voice."
LISTEN TO "SUN AIN'T SET" HERE
"Sun Ain't Set" is one of seven tracks written solely by the LA-turned-Nashville resident on his forthcoming album 'Popular Mechanics,' out Nov. 12th and available for pre-order today (10.8). The song follows in the footsteps of "For The Rest of Our Lives," the project's romantic debut.
Earning praise from NPR Music, Rolling Stone, The New Yorker, LA Times, Wall Street Journal and many more - with LA Weekly hailing him as a "contender to be the biggest country star L.A. has produced since Dwight Yoakam," Outlaw has continued to make waves since the release of his debut album 'Angeleno' in 2015, landing tours with Kacey Musgraves and Yoakam and making his TV debut on CBS Saturday Morning.
Now, just weeks away from the release of 'Popular Mechanics,' he’s celebrating this new musical chapter in true Outlaw fashion, lining up three back-to-back shows at his own neighborhood bar in East Nashville, The Underdog. Kicking off the special performances on Thursday evening (10.7), the intimate setup will continue with shows tonight (10.8) and tomorrow (10.9). Outlaw has also joined the acclaimed Grand Ole Opry lineup on Saturday, where he’ll hit the stage prior to his final performance at The Underdog that evening. Tickets are on-sale now at samoutlaw.com/tour.
'Popular Mechanics' Track List:
1. Here On a Mission (Sam Outlaw)
2. Popular Mechanics (Sam Outlaw, Cheyenne Medders)
3. Half a World Away (Sam Outlaw)
4. For The Rest of Our Lives (Sam Outlaw, Steven Fiore)
5. Sun Ain't Set (Sam Outlaw)
6. Polyamorous (Sam Outlaw)
7. Stay The Night (Sam Outlaw)
8. Bad Enough (Sam Outlaw)
9. Language of Love (Sam Outlaw)
10. Daydreaming (Sam Outlaw, Cheyenne Medders)
11. When You Feel It (Sam Outlaw, Sean Van Vleet)
