Ricky Montgomery’s vulnerability and authenticity shine through new album “Rick”

Ricky Montgomery’s sophomore album has arrived after seven years of preparation. “Rick” is a seminar in emotional storytelling. The album is an introspective story that explores depths of personal experiences with love and loss.

The album opens with “One Way Mirror”, immediately immersing the listener into the album’s sheer beauty. Montgomery takes this song of solitude and makes it a love letter to his past self.

“I haven’t felt myself since I can’t say when / But I want to get you back”, sings the chorus. Shifting the energy, “Boy Toy” is a pop anthem. Montgomery revealed in an Instagram post that the song “uses the allegory of unrequited-love-turned-willing-booty-call” to let go of jealousy or perfection within relationships. The success that has come so early on from “Boy Toy” deems it an instant and exciting classic in Montgomery’s discography.

“Truth Or Dare” opens, “Trying cocaine in a frat house basement”, begging listeners to wonder where the song will go. Essentially, the track is about growing up in a small town and having nothing to do but get into trouble, only to keep things thrilling, of course. It feels comforting, like a childhood friendship, making it the perfect pop song.

“In Your Pocket” frames the idea of a perfect situationship. Montgomery sings, “Don’t play with my emotions / It’s not fair”, perfectly encapsulating the state of pleasantry that our delusions bring us. Meanwhile, “Eraser” has more of a hollow and mystic touch. With it having been the first single from “Rick”, Montgomery shares that it’s the “sonic center of the album”.

“Sometimes I Need To Be Alone” is easily the most flexible song on the record. The verses contrast with the chorus, both lyrically and sonically. The mellow track gives the album room to breathe, and it’s easy on the ears.

As the album progresses, it becomes clear that “Rick” isn’t just a collection of songs, but a cohesive narrative that takes the listener through a journey. Lyrically, Ricky Montgomery’s songwriting continues to shine. His approach to telling this story is on full display throughout the record, particularly in “Black Fins”, which may be Montgomery’s most vulnerable song to date.

“Black Fins” stands out as the poignant ballad of the record. Montgomery has shared that it took him 14 years to be able to make this sensitive track. “Ever since I was 15 I wanted to tell a story about my dad washing up on a beach in Mexico”, he says on an Instagram post. He sings, “I guess we’ll never know / I’ll just be here wondering / What made you choose to go / The day that you went down to Mexico”. This powerful song is a heartbreaking experience.

“Rick” is a solid addition to Montgomery’s discography, with his lyrics being as compelling as ever, and will undoubtedly find its audience. The album maintains a consistent quality without straying too far from Montgomery’s established style. The cohesiveness feels safe and comforting to longtime, as well as new fans. Montgomery has always connected with his fans through his vulnerability and authenticity, which shines through on this record, more so than before. It’s an album that deserves to be savored, offering a deeply emotional experience that will leave an impact on listeners.

You can check out the album here.