I'm a Fire

David Nail’s third album delves into bittersweet memories of the past as well as romantic dreams of the present. The Missouri-born singer draws on his own married life for inspiration as he balances traditional and contemporary country sounds with the help of producers Chuck Ainlay and Frank Liddell. Rather than indulge in faux-rebel posturing or party-hearty clichés, the album’s songs offer honest glimpses of relationships, small-town life, and the struggle to learn from one’s mistakes. Whether he’s falling under the spell of a fascinating woman (“Whatever She’s Got”), looking back on old flames with fondness (“Broke My Heart”), or celebrating his better half (the title track), Nail brings natural warmth and sincerity to his performances. The twang-filled “When They’re Gone (Lyle County)” recalls the joys of young love with the help of Little Big Town, while the piano ballad “The Secret” reflects on the price paid for bad choices. Nail blends voices with Lee Ann Womack on a heartfelt cover of “Galveston” (a Jimmy Webb tune that Glen Campbell took to the top of the charts in 1969), adding a note of heroism to this radio-friendly yet highly personal release.