Artist: Kenny Chesney

Title: Hemingway's Whiskey

Label: Sony Nashville

Getting off the road and rediscovering what really makes a good song has done Kenny Chesney a world of good. Thanks to a well-stocked selection of songs that celebrate the virtues of laidback living and his beach bum vibe, Kenny Chesney has practically become country music's answer to Jack Johnson and Jimmy Buffet in recent years, rather than the multi-faceted artist who wowed audiences with 2002's No Shoes, No Shirt, No Problems.

But thankfully, that perpetually chill vibe has changed dramatically with the superbly crafted Hemingway's Whiskey, an album that's chock full of the lyrical depth and musical surprises that endeared Chesney to fans in the first place.

Turns out, a self-imposed hiatus from his rigorous tour schedule was just what the doctor ordered. Like the best country songs, Hemingway's Whiskey is rich with nostalgia and ripe with heartbreak, best illustrated on the album's engaging lead single "The Boys of Fall," an ode to those Friday night football games that are the backbone of many communities and "Round and Round," a rootsy, reflective little number about the often-dissatisfied nature of humanity.

Digging deeper into his own life, "Where I Grew Up" is a thoughtful coming-of-age tale that encourages listeners to make the most of the time we've got, while "You and Tequila," a stunning duet with fellow artist Grace Potter, has all the makings of a big hit as these two perfectly matched voices sing about the joys and struggles of particularly volatile relationships that are fun in the moment, but not exactly destined for the long haul.

Perfectly complementing the more well-rounded storytelling style is equally diverse accompaniment that keeps the listener engaged for the duration. While there's certainly no shortage of upbeat, rock-inspired cuts on the 11-song set, it's ultimately the stripped-down acoustic moments where Chesney's honeyed vocals shine the brightest.

More than anything, it's nice to see that Chesney's career has bright new life beyond the beach, something that should delight both old and new fans alike.

**This review first Published October 14, 2010