Is Something's Going On a good place to start with Trace Adkins?

Yes, Something's Going On is recommended as a starting point for new Trace Adkins listeners. A blend of traditional country storytelling with modern production, steeped in themes of love and resilience. Released on January 1, 2017, 'Something's Going On' is Trace Adkins' first album since 2013's 'Love Will'. At this point in his career, Adkins was reestablishing himself in the industry after a brief hiatus, having returned to the studio with a renewed focus on personal storytelling and contemporary sounds.

Who is Something's Going On for?

Something's Going On works well if you're into steady mid-tempo storytelling flow, personal reflections on life and heartfelt themes of nostalgia.

How many songs are on Something's Going On?

Something's Going On has 12 tracks, running approximately 43 minutes.

Something's Going On

Trace Adkins · 2017

43 min · 12 tracks · country music

A blend of traditional country storytelling with modern production, steeped in themes of love and resilience.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Ain't Just the Whiskey Talkin' Start here — This track serves as a powerful opener, combining catchy melodies with heartfelt lyrics that explore the complexities of love and regret.
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Still a Soldier — A poignant tribute to veterans, this song resonates deeply with listeners by addressing themes of sacrifice and honor, highlighting Adkins' commitment to military issues.
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Jesus and Jones — This track cleverly juxtaposes faith and earthly struggles, using relatable storytelling that reflects Adkins' signature style while connecting with a wide audience.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

46 /100

Foothills

Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The album blends traditional and modern country elements but lacks standout compositions.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features upbeat tracks that maintain a consistent tempo, while the second half shifts to more reflective ballads.
Several songs incorporate traditional country instrumentation, such as steel guitar and fiddle, blending with modern production techniques.
The lyrics often employ storytelling elements typical of country music, focusing on themes of love, loss, and resilience.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 5/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo storytelling flow
personal reflections on life
heartfelt themes of nostalgia
for casual gatherings

Maybe skip if you

seeking high-energy tracks
prefer experimental soundscapes

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Late Career Highlight — Marks Adkins' return with a strong entry after a brief hiatus.
Themes: military sacrifice· small-town love stories· faith and struggle
Career context: Released on January 1, 2017, 'Something's Going On' is Trace Adkins' first album since 2013's 'Love Will'. At this point in his career, Adkins was reestablishing himself in the industry after a brief hiatus, having returned to the studio with a renewed focus on personal storytelling and contemporary sounds.
Stylistic neighbors: Toby Keith· Blake Shelton· Kenny Chesney

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Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Still a Soldier

The bridge shifts perspective to reflect on the ongoing struggles faced by veterans after returning home.

This change in focus deepens the emotional impact and emphasizes the long-lasting effects of service beyond just physical combat.