The mountain

"Bentley's new album The Mountain certainly doesn't completely spurn mainstream country radio, but it does have a relaxed, rock-solid vibe that would stand out among the heavily processed arena-ready anthems that fill those playlists ... Across these 13 songs, he sounds refreshed, enlightened and ready for another however many years as a bright spot in mainstream country music".

"Bentley avoids both the humor and boozing that characterized his hits of the first half of the 2010s, choosing to pepper his songs of gratitude and love with earnest passion and telling little details (he falls in love on the L Train on "My Religion"). Generally, The Mountain is so skillful and polished, the songs glide by without effort, so it takes a little close listening to realize how well crafted the individual songs are, and how they combine together to make one of Bentley's best records".

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