Album Review: Richard Lynch “Some Days are Better Than Others” LP
Veteran country artist Richard Lynch is back, armed with fresh tales from the heartland on his newest album, Some Days Are Better Than Others, set to release November 8, 2024. Known for staying true to traditional country music, Lynch continues his legacy of storytelling with a touch of grit, humor, and nostalgia, bringing listeners along for a ride that celebrates the beauty of everyday life and the strength of human connections.
The album opens with its title track, “Some Days Are Better Than Others,” a reflective, warm-hearted tribute to life’s simple joys, inspired by a chance encounter with two elderly friends at a local donut shop. With lines like, “They’d say every day is a good day, but some days are better than others,” Lynch paints an honest picture of aging with grace and gratitude—a sentiment echoed throughout the album’s thirteen songs.
The track perfectly encapsulates the spirit of this record: everyday heroes, treasured memories, and the enduring bonds of family and friendship.
In “All Good Things Come Back Around,” Lynch reminisces about his roots, guitar lessons with his father, and the timeless charm of classic country. This song pays homage to the genre’s legends, blending warm nostalgia with a message of faith that Lynch’s brand of country is here to stay.
Meanwhile, the poignant “Never Made Colorado,” co-written with VL Haywood, explores the end of a relationship with raw vulnerability. The song’s melancholic lyrics, *”No, we never made Colorado, but we sure crossed that great divide,”* underscore Lynch’s skill at capturing heartbreak in its most relatable form.
Another standout is “Jesus and Bocephus,” a deeply personal song dedicated to Lynch’s late bandmate Tim Bennington. It’s a gentle, heartfelt tribute that blends humor with reverence, highlighting Lynch’s knack for writing songs that evoke laughter, tears, and memories all at once. Then there’s “Right Where He Ought to Be,” inspired by the extraordinary life of stuntman Kim Kahana.
Lynch turns a biographical tale into a reflective ballad on fate, resilience, and purpose—a theme that runs like a lifeline through much of his work.
Yet, Lynch doesn’t just tug at heartstrings; he knows how to have a little fun too. Tracks like “That Gal of Mine Frying Bacon” and “Ruckus Rufus” add a touch of lightheartedness and humor to the album. “That Gal of Mine Frying Bacon” is a playful ode to domestic life, complete with flirtatious lyrics and an irresistible hook that will leave you smiling.
In “Ruckus Rufus,” Lynch spins the story of a larger-than-life friend who lives to the beat of his own drum. It’s these characters, these folks from Lynch’s life and imagination, that fill the album with authenticity and charm.
Beyond the music, Some Days Are Better Than Others is a testament to Lynch’s dedication to his roots, his fans, and his craft. Released through his own Fence Row Records and distributed by MTS Records/Virgin/Universal, this album stands as a heartfelt celebration of real, unfiltered country music.
Lynch’s longstanding commitment to preserving traditional country shines through, with each song telling a unique story of resilience, humor, and love. Fans of classic country will feel right at home, while newer listeners will find themselves charmed by Lynch’s sincerity and down-home wisdom.
Lynch’s music isn’t just for listening—it’s for living alongside, like an old friend who understands the ups and downs of life. So if you’re looking for an album that feels like a conversation on a porch swing, a reminder of simpler times, or just a comforting slice of country, Some Days Are Better Than Others is here to welcome you home.