Darius Rucker – Learn to Live

Darius Rucker, who made his name in the music industry as the frontman of folk-pop band Hootie & the Blowfish, is now making the cross-over in to the country music scene. Rucker has been infusing the country sound to his band for some time now, and bas been attempting to make country music for some time now unlike most other pop stars who cross over late in the game.

Still banking on his distinctly rustic and low sounding voice, his vocal work is soulful and filling with “Learn to Live”. Tracks from the album that stick out include “Forever Road”, a catchy love song that can be a bit too sugary at times. “If I Had Wings” is another track, complete with a string section piece.

There is however a feeling that Darius Rucker has not steered clear of his old Hootie & the Blowfish sound. There are still some similarities, and listening to the album sometimes gives a feeling that you’re just listening to a new Hootie album.

The album is a good listen-through, working excellently as background for those work-at-home kind of days, but Darius Rucker still has miles to go before he gets the recognition that he wants in the country music world. There is talent, but a lack of authenticity, which only time and experience can generate.