On Disc: Colter Wall – ‘Memories and Empties’

Producers: Colter Wall and Patrick Lyons

Singles: “1800 Miles,” “Back to Me,” and “The Longer You Hold On”
Release date: November 14, 2025
Label: Black Hole/La Honda/RCA
CD Catalog #: 19802964572

The Skinny: Recorded at the famed RCA Studio A in Nashville, Memories and Empties is country singer-songwriter Colter Wall’s fifth studio album. Wall wrote all but one of the 10 tracks, and he is accompanied by his touring band of crack musicians. Highly recommended for fans of ‘60s and ‘70s classic country.

Sounds like: Merle Haggard, Waylon Jennings, Charley Crockett, Orville Peck

Deeper Thoughts: Wall is only 30 years old, but he has a voice well beyond his years. With his slightly craggy yet rich baritone, the Saskatchewan, Canada native sings like an outlaw country troubadour who’s been at it for decades. This is an album for those who prefer classic country, or as some say, “real country.” You won’t hear any arena rock choruses and hip-hop beats as is found in much modern country, just straightforward, twangy tunes delivered earnestly.

There’s plenty of pedal steel, some tears-in-the-beer ballads (“My Present Just Gets Past Me” and “The Longer You Hold On”), and some upbeat numbers ready to dance to at the honky tonk (“1800 Miles” and “It’s Getting So”). At a mere 33 minutes, the record doesn’t overstay its welcome. What you see is what you get with Wall, and if you were a fan of his earlier albums, odds are you’ll dig this one too.

The Sonics: Wall’s vocals are forward in the mix and leap out the speakers. The CD sounds great with a good pair of headphones, but I prefer listening to it through loudspeakers for a wider soundstage and more instrument separation.

Packaging: Digisleeve. No liner notes, lyrics, or booklet. Credits provided.

Track Listing:
All songs written by Colter Wall, except “Summer Wages”