Dierks Bentley, ‘Country & Cold Cans’ EP to Release in August
NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- A few years ago Dierks Bentley went hard against country music convention by releasing a rockin' bluegrass-roots album. He's decided to break the rules again.
This time around, Bentley is releasing a new four-song EP called "Country & Cold Cans" even while his last album continues to chart hit singles. Turns out Bentley just wanted to have a little fun with his friends.
"Sometimes that should be the driving force in your decisions, you know?" Bentley said. "It doesn't always have to be a business decision or well-thought-out plan. Just go out there, have fun, do it with some friends and put out some new tunes."
"Country & Cold Cans" is out Aug. 21. The EP will be a digital-only release available on iTunes initially. Bentley will support the EP with a quick three-date tour Aug. 20-22 at the University of South Carolina, the University of Georgia and the University of Mississippi. Tickets go on sale Friday.
Bentley released his last album "Home" earlier this year and "5-1-5-0," his 10th No. 1 country single as both artist and songwriter, reached the top of the charts this week. It's the third No. 1 from "Home."
Normally, competing music would be considered a hindrance to the success of that album. But in this case, Bentley welcomes the interruption in business as usual. The music was written on the road, then recorded over a two-day period with his touring band and produced with Jaren Johnston, a member of The Cadillac Black – Bentley's opening band on tour this year.
The music is meant to be loose and off the cuff. With songs like the title track, "Grab a Beer" and "Back Porch," the aim is clear.
Bentley said he's targeting the same kind of kids curious about country music like he was as a teenager growing up in Arizona.
"It's called 'Country & Cold Cans,'" Bentley said with a laugh. "It's not called Beethoven."
Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. The information contained in the AP news report may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or otherwise distributed without the prior written authority of The Associated Press. Active hyperlinks have been inserted by AOL.
Watch Dierks' Video for "5-1-5-0"