Jake Worthington may only have a few years’ experience under his belt, but the Texas-born artist sings with the kind of voice some artists take decades to develop. On this sophomore album, Worthington shows off his formidable range, channeling the nimble playfulness of Alan Jackson as easily as he dips into his lower register, which could rival Josh Turner’s. When I Write the Song kicks off with “It Ain’t the Whiskey,” a foot-stomping slice of neotraditionalism with the charm of Dwight Yoakam and the chops of George Strait. “King of the World” is a timeless, two-stepping ballad with heavily Western influences, while “My Home’s in Oklahoma” could be a long-lost Time Jumpers track with its quick, almost jazzy swing—appropriately, Time Jumpers mainstay Paul Franklin plays steel on the standout tune. In addition to players like Franklin and renowned bluegrass guitarist Bryan Sutton, the record boasts an impressive guest list of featured performers. Miranda Lambert joins Worthington on “Hello Shitty Day,” a tear-stained ballad with a humorous bent that makes ample use of both singers’ ability to wrench heartache out of any note. Living legend Marty Stuart lends his voice and guitar to “I’m the One,” a swaggering, winking ode to “true blue” bravado that Stuart also co-wrote. And up-and-comer Mae Estes duets with Worthington on “I Feel You,” accenting his deep croon with high, lonesome harmony.