By Joshua Wallace

Bettin’ Away My Life is the debut EP from independent Nashville recording artist Austin Lee.  I first heard of Austin due to his name being on the lineup for Tumbleweed 2018. When I went to create the playlist for that festival, there was nothing available from him for me to put on it.  Well, now there is. This six record is long for an EP clocking in at 23 minutes. It’s got some amazing production and big names behind it for a debut release. Robby Turner who you all know has worked with the likes of Waylon Jennings, Chris Stapleton and Colter Wall does pedal steel on the album and it was recorded in Nashville, TN at Dogfox Studio.

The EP opens up with a hot track called “Reckless”.  This is a more rocking track with a lot of twang. This is a good opener and lets you know what you’re in for with the rest of the album.  Another favorite is “Too Damn Long” which leans heavily on Robby Turner’s pedal steel for a great sound. If by this point you get the idea that Bettin’ Away My Life is all about relationships and breakups, then you wouldn’t be far from right.

The title track takes a break from relationship troubles to turn to the troubles of a young country singer in Nashville who is betting away his life in a town where dreams come to die.  I love that line and it’s a true depiction of how hard it is to “make it” in Nashville. Finally, another favorite is “You And Jack”. This is another song that pairs women and whiskey. This time the hurt comes from both.  It’s a nice ballad that doubles as a good drinking song too.

I really like what I’m hearing in this debut EP from Austin Lee.  He has a good sound and good songwriting skills that show he can go places.  I look forward to what is to come for Austin and hope to get a full length album soon.  In the meantime, I will be seeing Austin Lee at this year’s Tumbleweed Country Music Festival.  I will have more to say on this young artist then. Be sure to check out Austin Lee’s Bettin’ Away My Life where ever you get digital music and pick up a CD from Austin at shows.      

Favorite Tracks : Reckless, Too Damn Long,  Bettin’ Away My Life, You And Jack

Austin Lee – Bettin’ Away My Life (2018)

  1. Reckless
  2. Let Go
  3. Too Damn Long
  4. Bettin’ Away My Life
  5. You And Jack
  6. Drive
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