He doesn’t miss.
Without a doubt, the alternative country scene is the most exciting it’s ever been. You truly don’t have to look far to find someone to latch on to. From the folk stylings of Zach Bryan and Dylan Gossett, to the southern rock-inspired sound from Whiskey Myers and The Red Clay Strays, to the heavy grunge influences on Treaty Oak Revival and Koe Wetzel, there’s a lot to love lately.
With that being said, however, one of the most underrated and talented artists in the new batch of young stars is none other than Kashus Culpepper.
Since breaking out upon the release of his debut single, “After Me?,” back in June of 2024. Culpepper has been one of the hottest young stars in the alt. country scene. Of course, this was best shown on his brilliant debut album back in January, Act I, which showcased his beautiful blend of country, blues and soul on standout tracks like “Cherry Rose,” “Alabama Beauty Queen” and “Southern Man” featuring Marcus King.
He’s kept the pedal to the floor since Act I’s release, getting booked to open for the likes of Jelly Roll, Charley Crockett and Thomas Rhett on their current tours. In case that wasn’t enough, he also scored a headlining spot at the best-kept secret in the entire country/folk world, Laurel Cove, in Pineville, Kentucky, last week and absolutely crushed his set on night one.
Wasting no time, Culpepper is following up January’s debut album today with an extension of sorts in the form of a brand-new EP, Act I: Summer Nights, which contains a soulful reimagining of Glen Campbell’s 1977 smash hit, “Southern Nights” along with three originals.
Starting the EP is none other than the “Southern Nights” cover, and I must say, it is quite good. There’s no doubt that it’s a bit risky covering (and further reimagining) a beloved classic. With that being said, the Alabama native truly makes the track his own. Though the melody stays the same, Culpepper and Co. add some flavor to the Campbell classic. Beyond his buttery vocals that simply glide over familiar lyrics, some subtle additions of piano in the production truly breathe life into the tune and make it incredibly fun.
From there, Culpepper follows it up with a tried-and-true R&B track on “Let Me Show You Love,” which sees the Navy veteran plead for his lover to give him one more chance, noting he’s “not the devil you know.” These slick lyrics are backed by a truly infectious drum beat, coupled with some slick guitar work that is sure to play well at live shows and get people moving.
“Those ain’t my sins
I’m different
And I swear on Heaven above
Hey, angel
Won’t you let me show you love”
Act I: Summer Nights is then followed up by a sultry tune about missing ‘lovely Maria’ on “Miss You Much Longer” and another melodic, atmospheric track on “Til The Sun Goes Down.” Here, Culpepper seems to be on the other side of leaving, telling his former lover that “loney’s got a gun,” noting that she’ll only miss him more when the sun goes down.
Overall, Act I: Summer Nights is yet another impressive outing from the rising star. It’s clear that Culpepper wanted to explore his R&B roots more on this project. And while that will certainly turn off some of the staunch country traditionalists out there, this EP is nothing short of a homerun that proves why Culpepper is one of the most exciting voices in the alternative country scene today.
“Southern Nights”
“Let Me Show You Love”
Kashus Culpepper Tour Dates
June 19 – Greenfield, Massachusetts – Green River Festival
June 20 – Bangor, Maine – Maine Savings Amphitheater
June 23 – Syracuse, New York – Empower Federal Credit Union Amphitheater at Lakeview
June 27 – Stuttgart, Germany – US Army Garrison Stuttgart
July 4 – Calgary, Canada – Atco Field at Spruce Meadow
July 9 – Nashville, Tennessee – Geodis Park
July 11 – Greenville, South Carolina – Bon Secours Wellness Park
July 15 – Portsmouth, New Hampshire – Prescott Park
July 16 – Hartford, Connecticut – The Meadows Music Theatre
July 17 – Gilford, New Hampshire – BankNH Pavilion
July 18 – Hershey, Pennsylvania – Hersheypark Stadium
July 25 – Macon, Georgia – Captiol Theatre
