Robert Ross’s latest single, Drink ‘Em Down, is a spirited dive into heartbreak and resilience, a quintessential country anthem that combines raw emotional storytelling with infectious melodies. Co-written with renowned Canadian artist and producer Gil Grand, the track blends Ross’s signature vocal grit with polished production, resulting in a song that’s both deeply personal and universally relatable.
The lyrics, steeped in betrayal and longing, center on a narrator drowning his sorrows after discovering his partner’s infidelity. Lines like, “Long as her memory hangs around, just set ’em up and I’ll drink ’em down,” encapsulate the pain of heartbreak while embracing a cathartic release through the titular act. The storytelling, vivid and conversational, pulls listeners into the protagonist’s emotional spiral, making the song feel like a shared experience at the barstool.
Musically, Drink ‘Em Down strikes a perfect balance between traditional country and modern sensibilities. The rhythm section provides a lively, toe-tapping backdrop, while the guitar solo adds an edge of rockabilly flair. Ross’s rich, textured vocals stand out, delivering each line with authenticity and emotion that feel earned from life experience.
What sets the song apart is its ability to inject levity into a heavy theme. While the narrative explores heartbreak, the upbeat tempo and sing-along chorus infuse the track with an almost defiant energy. It’s the kind of song you’d expect to hear at a honky-tonk, where sorrow meets camaraderie and music becomes a salve for the soul.
The collaboration with Gil Grand pays off immensely, elevating Ross’s storytelling with a polished but not overly commercialized sound. The production respects the song’s rootsy origins while ensuring it remains accessible to a contemporary audience.
Overall, Drink ‘Em Down is a standout entry in Robert Ross’s catalog, reinforcing his position as a rising voice in country music. The single not only showcases his growth as an artist but also sets a promising tone for his upcoming sophomore album, Better With Time. Whether you’re nursing a broken heart or just enjoy a good country tune, this track is sure to hit the spot—and maybe inspire you to raise a glass yourself.
–Tim Stevens
