Though this is only his debut EP, Jacob Hackworth had already made quite a mark in Nashville by the time of its release. The up-and-comer from Missouri had notched a handful of hits as a songwriter for other artists, including Bailey Zimmerman’s “Rock and a Hard Place” and Tucker Wetmore’s “Wine into Whiskey.” On What Took You So Long, Hackworth shows he’s more than just a pen for hire. The opening title track is lush and melodic, with a subtle but commanding vocal performance from Hackworth. His vocal control and tasteful phrasing set him apart from many of his contemporaries, sounding more like old-school Rascal Flatts than go-for-broke country rock. His pop sensibilities really shine on this project, too, like on the heartache anthem “I Wanna Quit,” which has definite crossover potential, and the propulsive “Help Yourself.” “Mess That Marlboro Made” is the twangiest tune in the bunch, with acoustic guitar from roots wizard Bryan Sutton adding a bit of grit to Hackworth’s tale of trying to quit an ex-flame.