On Max McNown’s sophomore album, Night Driving – released on January 24 on Fugitive Recordings – the Oregon native effortlessly blends raw alt-country, soulful folk, and a hook-driven country sound that permeates the radio dial. The rising country star first found viral success on TikTok with songs featured his 2024 full-length debut, Willfully Blind, and on his new record McNown took inspiration from contemporary folk and country luminaries such as Noah Kahan, Zach Bryan, and Tyler Childers. Standout tracks like “Better Me For You (Brown Eyes)” and “Hotel Bible” showcase his heartfelt songwriting and emotional depth, while reflecting the many influences that shape his modern sound. “There’s a ton of freedom now in the country space. It hasn’t always been that way,” McNown reflects. “Country is much bigger than it used to be and there’s a lot more variety. I like that country is becoming wider-reaching.” (Holler)