Country music fans are sure to be pleased with Blake Shelton’s newest album, _Based on a True Story_. The record includes 14 brand-new tracks with everything from slow love songs to upbeat summer anthems. Although the tracks are similar to current country hits, the record certainly does not lack variety. Through lyrics in “Ten Times Crazier,” “Lay Low,” and “Doin’ What She Likes,” Shelton shows off his soft side and highlights his marriage to country music star Miranda Lambert.

But songs like “I Still Have a Finger” and “Boys Round Here” are anything but romantic. “I Still Have a Finger” can tell your boss exactly where to go, while “Boys Round Here” is a tribute to small-town country boys. “Boys Round Here” is the latest track released to the radio (along with “Sure Be Cool if you Did”). In this song, Blake raps the phrase “chew tobacco, chew tobacco, chew tobacco, spit,” creating a new sound and adding an edge to the record. The track also features Miranda’s band, Pistol Annies.

For even more variety, in the heartwarming track, “Granddaddy’s Gun,” Shelton sings about family and tradition. “Small Town, Big Time” provides a rock ‘n’ roll feel perfect for back roads and bonfires. Finally, “Sure Be Cool if You Did,” was the first single on the album released and has already reached No. 5 on the charts this week.

This album continues Shelton’s country music career, holding true to his signature sound and wide variety of themes. Although nothing on the album is particularly original, if you enjoy today’s country music, Blake Shelton delivers.