Jason Aldean

iTunes Review

You can never go wrong on country radio singing the praises of dirt roads, beer and bingo. Jason Aldean found this out when the success of the cartoonish (but genuinely clever) “Hicktown” kick-started his recording career, and this rambunctious slice of Americana is among the highlights on his 2005 self-titled debut album. The distinctive imprint of MuzikMafia mavens Big Kenny and John Rich is evident on various tracks — besides penning “Hicktown,” the duo (together or separately) contributed “Amarillo Sky” (a soaring farmer’s prayer), “Why” (a troubled love ballad) and “You’re the Love I Wanna Be In” (a boisterous tune sparked by slide guitar). The rest of Jason Aldean treads familiar country terrain. There’s a nostalgic look back at sexual awakening (“She Loved Me”), a lonesome trucker’s lament (“Asphalt Cowboy”), and a song of gratitude for everyday blessings (“Good to Go”). Aldean’s vocals balance Dixie-fried charm with hints of yearning and inner doubt and deliver an enjoyable ride through “Hicktown” and points South.