Album Review: Lawrence Maxwell, Ballad of Miles

“I’ve been running for so long / I wrote the ballad of miles,” croons Lawrence Maxwell on his third country album release, Ballad of Miles. This 13 track album is rooted in themes of love, heartache, and wry humour, and ultimately reflects Maxwell’s old soul voice and presence as a storyteller. 

“Listening To Keith Whitley” serves as the opening track, and sets the tone for good-natured twang that prevails throughout the album. Maxwell explores a faster pace and toe-tapping infectious rhythms with “Back To Cape Breton,” “Hurry Up & Hurt Me,” and includes flashes of Southern Rock influence in “Baby-Makin’ Music.” 

Also prominent in the album is Maxwell’s poetry and lyricism. Soulful ballads such as “Smile” and “Bouquet of Flowers” showcase his sensitivity, while “Better You” offers unsentimental truths such as “you can’t fix a broken heart until you learn to love your own.” The eponymous “Ballad of Miles” is a strong stand out for its casual elegance, serving as an offering to fans of classic country, while taking listeners on a journey filled with self-reflection.  

The biggest strength of this album is Maxwell’s ability to both break your heart and make you want to square dance. Never afraid to punch above his weight class, Ballad of Miles proves that Maxwell has an appetite for themes of a heavy heart. 

Ballad of Miles was released January 21, 2022.
Listen to it here.