Gone Country: “Change My Mind” – Billy Ray Cyrus

Photo Courtesy of Blue Cadillac Music

Step 1: Shave the mullet

Step 2: Keep a little scruff

Step 3: Insert braless bombshell just young enough to be a 51 year-old’s daughter.

And… Welcome Billy Ray Cyrus back to the 21st Century. You know what? Despite the lack of mullet (yes, I’ve been holding on to that one since its departure), I ain’t mad.

I was hooked on the record at first listen, thanks to the restive banjo and haunting guitar. “Change My Mind” could potentially be a great path for Billy Ray, if he so chooses to maintain it. The title track off Billy Ray’s forthcoming album, offers a sultry story of a cowboy who leaves his woman, then unapologetically changes his mind, returning home without promise he won’t turn to leave once more.

The forthcoming album, with its title track as proof, hints towards an assurance that the outlaw from the “Back To Tennessee” days may have returned. For good? Well, we’ll just have to see. Taking into account his track record of new haircuts and variated sounds with each unleashed album, means I won’t be getting my hopes up farther than I can reach (read: I’m five foot nothing).

I will say, however, that I think it’s finally time for me to retire my father/daughter collaboration disgust. Please excuse the automatic gag-reflex. I know, I know. Trying to let it go.

Either way, “Change My Mind” is a little refreshing taste of outlaw in the grand sea of mainstream country music. Hats off to you, Billy Ray. Please cement those boots.