JT Hodges

On his self-titled debut album, JT Hodges leans toward the rocking side of country while presenting himself as a restless romantic navigating the highs and lows of love. The Texas-born singer/songwriter works within Nashville boundaries but still puts an individual stamp on these tracks, thanks to his well-crafted tunes and earnest vocal delivery. “Rather Be Wrong Than Lonely” recalls the aching passion of a long-lost Roy Orbison tune, while “Right About Now” and “Hunt You Down” have a playful swagger worthy of John Mellencamp. “Sleepy Little Town” pushes the mainstream country envelope with its depiction of scandal in heartland America. Balancing the edgier elements are personalized takes on familiar country themes, like the openhearted “Goodbyes Made You Mine” and the upbeat, twang-filled “Give Me One More Night.” Vince Gill lends his guitar and vocals to “When I Stop Crying,” a smoldering lovelorn ballad. Producers Mark Collie, Don Cook, and Mark Wright enhance Hodge’s music with tasty arrangement touches, like the sparkling, mandolin-powered “Rhythm of the Radio.”