Started with a Song
Brett Kissel · 2013
38 min · 10 tracks · country music
A vibrant blend of contemporary country sounds infused with heartfelt storytelling and infectious energy.
Top tracks — play these first
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Started With a Song — This title track encapsulates Kissel's narrative style, celebrating the power of music in shaping memories and experiences, setting the tone for the entire album.
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Tough People Do — With its uplifting message about resilience and strength, this track showcases Kissel's ability to blend personal storytelling with universal themes.
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Canadian Kid — This track serves as an anthem of national pride, reflecting Kissel's deep connection to his roots while resonating with listeners across Canada.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album features strong storytelling but follows familiar country templates without significant innovation.
What we noticed
- The first three tracks maintain a high energy level with upbeat tempos, while the subsequent tracks introduce more reflective themes and slower rhythms.
- Several songs feature a call-and-response structure between the lead vocals and background harmonies, enhancing the storytelling aspect.
- Composition 25% of the score
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6/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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7/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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5/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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5/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Known within its scene. 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
- uplifting melodies for celebrations
- heartfelt storytelling with nostalgia
- for sing-along moments
- great for road trip vibes
Maybe skip if you
- prefer complex, abstract themes
- seek experimental soundscapes
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released on September 30, 2013, 'Started with a Song' marked Brett Kissel's debut album, establishing him as a significant voice in Canadian country music. This album followed his participation in various songwriting camps and performances that helped hone his craft and connect with a broader audience.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Dean Lewis· Jordan Davis· Michael Ray
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Started With a Song 4:21
- 2 Tough People Do 3:34
- 3 3-2-1 3:35
- 4 Something You Just Don't Forget 3:09
- 5 Raise Your Glass 3:51
- 6 Country in My Blood 3:50
- 7 My Cowgirl 3:34
- 8 Girl in a Cowboy Hat 3:04
- 9 Canadian Kid 3:12
- 10 Together (Grandma & Grandpa's Song) 6:13
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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