“Charleston, SC 1966” is the new album from former HOOTIE & THE BLOWFISH front man Darius Rucker. Just about everybody knows of HOOTIE and his BLOWFISH as they sold umpteen millions of albums in the 90’s. That band never seemed to top its debut record but after a handful of studio records the band went on hiatus in 2008 and Rucker embarked on a solo career in country music.

“Charleston, SC 1966” is the second solo country effort from Rucker and it really hits a sweet spot for me. I’ve listened to many different styles of music and although I am not a hardcore country music fan I have liked some of the modern country music as it harkens back to an 80’s feel with its feel-good harmonies and melodies, lush production and top-notch musicianship. This new record has the same sound as Rucker’s previous effort but the songs on “Charleston, SC 1966” are much stronger and catchier. The immediate nature of tracks like the opener “This” and first single “Come Back Song” are clear. The country vibe is there but it’s not too in your face and the album as a whole even has some AOR overtones, which is very prevalent in the modern country sound these days. Also, if you are an AOR-aficionado you will appreciate the fact that bass player Mike Brignardello of GIANT fame plays on the record!

It’s only a slight miscalculation that this album dropped in the US fall season as songs like “Might Get Lucky”, “Southern State Of Mind” and “The Craziest Thing” are perfect summer fodder for cruising with the top down. Other tracks like the soulful “Whiskey And You” or heartfelt ballad “Things I’d Never Do” and the loving “She’s Beautiful” are pure class.

There are a few moments when the country overtones show a little brighter than others and a song like “I Don’t Care” showcases that as country superstar Brad Paisley lends a hand on the song. Rucker and Paisley trade off on a fun set of lyrics in the tune.

“Charleston, SC 1966” is a strong step up from the debut and a fine, well-crafted modern country affair with some AOR overtones and plenty of melody and great harmonies. It’s a fun record if that sound is your cup of (sweet) tea…