Old Dominion 'Memory Lane' EP Review

Old Dominion is one of the most celebrated groups in all of country music. They are known for countless hits like “One Man Band” or “Hotel Key.” The legendary group released their latest EP, Memory Lane, on June 23rd, 2023. The collection contains six tracks along with previous releases “Memory Lane" and “Ain’t Got A Worry.”

The album opens with “I Should Have Married You,” where the iconic country group explores the complexities of timing in a relationship. The song brings up sentimental topics like letting a loved one get away. Lead singer, Matthew Ramsey, gets deep, singing, “I should have seen it through / I should have let you know / I should have said ‘I do’ / Back when I still had a chance, yeah / I should have married you.” The track features an upbeat melody that juxtaposes the mature and vulnerable themes found in the storyline. This tactic is commonly deployed by Old Dominion, exploring intense emotional themes through light and catchy melodies.

Tracks four and five share a similar, slowed-down, sound. “Love Drunk and Happy” is a testament to the writing ability of Old Dominion. With a melody that progressively builds and lyrics that set the tone perfectly, “Love Drunk and Happy” talks about being ready to go when your time finally comes. They sing, “Nothing sad, nothing sappy / When I go, I'm goin' love drunk and happy.” “Easier Said With Rum” carries a similar tune but sets itself apart completely with a unique resolution to the verses and chorus. The tune explores the mature ideas of delivering an apology and how alcohol can act as a social lubricant. Ramsey sings, “Guess it’s easier said with one / Or two, to take off the edge / I’m sorry ‘I’m sorry’ took so long to roll off my tongue / Guess it’s easier said with rum.”

Another one of the slower entries from Memory Lane is “Some Hoses.” By far the most gut-wrenching track, “Some Horses” talks about letting go of someone who was never meant to stay. The lyrics explore the idea of being a "runner" or a wild horse and feeling hopeless against change. Ramsey sings, “I love you forever / You should’ve known better / Some horses can never be tamed.” This track stands out on the EP as an emotionally charged break in the action.

“Ain’t Got a Worry” is a perfect example of what Old Dominion does best. This song is a complete summer masterpiece, with an upbeat melody and a positive message that makes listeners just want to smile. It's filled to the brim with positivity; the entire point of the song being the exuberance that comes with being carefree. They sing, “Ain’t nowhere to be / That I care to be / Ain't no rain around / That can bring me down right now / I ain’t got a worry, ain’t got a worry / Ain’t got a worry in the world.” “How Good Is That” is another bright spot on the project. The rolling nature of the chorus sets this instant classic apart. Ramsey sings about some of the things that make life great, singing, “Baby it ain’t all good, but I swear it’s alright / Take a big ole swig of the simple life / How good is that?”

The record closes with its most unique track, “Freedom Like You.” “Freedom Like You” takes a clear influence from both rock and roll and classic country. With a rocking melody full of swinging guitar and upbeat harmonies, “Freedom Like You” feels like a song that has always existed, begging to be listened to. “Freedom Like You” is a celebration of just how life-changing it can be to find the right person

Old Dominion continues to show the world why they constantly dominate the country music scene. Each track is full of heart and explores mature and vulnerable themes while still being catchy in true Old Dominion fashion. Memory Lane is Old Dominion at their best. The project shows maturity and evolution for Old Dominion as a group, each track building upon the themes of the last, allowing the record to work as a unit that tells a larger story. Matthew Ramsey, Trevor Rosen, Whit Sellers, Geoff Sprung, and Brad Tursi show the world yet again that they are the best in the business, and never fail to produce a quality product.

Do you like going to concerts? You can get $20 OFF your first order at SeatGeek! Use promo code: THENASHNEWS at checkout.

To hear more of country music’s best new releases, head to our Playlists Page and follow The Nash New Releases playlist on Spotify. For the latest in country music news follow The Nash News on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok, and don’t miss our brand-new newsletter!

Please note that this article may have affiliate links or The Nash News may receive compensation. We are independently owned and the opinions expressed here are our own.