Paul Cauthen has had an interesting road to his solo country music career, and it seems like both his past experience as an Indie Folk artist (Sons of Fathers) along with his recent collaboration with music producer Diplo has him leaning into a funkier sound.
Diplo released his innovative, genre-bending album Thomas Wesley: Chapter 2- Swamp Savant back on April 28th, and though it may be a little odd in parts, the music does seem to grow on you with each listen.
The album called upon well-known country artists such as Ernest, Koe Wetzel, Morgan Wallen, Parker McCollum, and Sturgill Simpson just to name a few.
It also featured Paul Cauthen on a track with Sierra Ferrell titled “Rain On My Mind,” which is (as the kids call it now a days) a “certified banger,” and actually sounds more country than this new song from Cauthen.
Let’s dive into this funky, hip-hop country (?) song that the 37-year-old Texas native just put out.
That question mark after country above is a rather important disclaimer as music within the massive collection of country music gets harder and harder to identify as “country” or “not country.” This song, “Hometeam,” is very difficult to place a genre on.
I think I can confidently say two thing about the Cauthen project:
First, it’s safe to say that the background instrumental of this song is not country, and it doesn’t take a genius to figure that one out. The beginning of the song is actually very reminiscent of Macklemore’s “Thrift Shop,” so do with that what you will.
And second, I’m not upset about it at all. Portions of the lyrics (as well as the fashion it is sung) definitely sound like a classic country song, but then other parts stray far away from the “southern sound” that many have come to know.
I do have to say, the accompanying music video is very fun to watch and looks as if Cauthen did it all in one take as he drove around on his motorcycle. The video is simple, yet matches the beat and lyricism perfectly (and allows Cauthen to show off his personality).
Whether or not it is country, give it a listen and see what you think:
Not bad right?
Or is it really bad?
I feel like people will only swing one way or the other, so if that one wasn’t particularly for you, check out this other Paul Cauthen song that was featured on Diplo’s newest album:
