Jason Boland’s latest album, The Last Kings of Babylon, serves as a significant point of reflection for the artist, who has been active in the music industry for over twenty-five years. Boland describes the album as a snapshot of his current life stage, explaining, “As a songwriter, I have found that — for bands that record and write most of their own music — if the album doesn’t have some great force behind it, like a concept record, then it’s just what you’re going through.” His new album is both a personal exploration and a broader commentary on country music.

Embracing Change in Country Music

In a time when the country music landscape continues to evolve, Boland’s sound appears increasingly relevant. Tracing his roots back to Oklahoma, he has long been a pillar of the Red Dirt music scene—a genre he helped pioneer. Boland expresses excitement that country music may finally be ready for an artist like him, noting that many of the influences revitalizing the genre align closely with his own style.

Authenticity and Tradition

Known for his commitment to authentic sound, Boland has consistently incorporated traditional instruments such as steel guitar and fiddle into his music. His writing often features a mix of ballads, waltzes, and two-steppers delivered through his commanding baritone voice. He reflects on the changing landscape of country music, citing his lyric, “Every generation has it figured/then in the middle of the game/the rules have changed,” in his track “The Next to Last Hank Williams.”

Notable Collaborations and Songwriting

Throughout his album, Boland penned or co-wrote eight out of the eleven tracks, featuring covers that hold personal significance. This includes “Drive,” originally by Jason Eady, Jamie Lin Wilson, and Kelley Mickwee, “Ain’t No Justice” by Randy Crouch, and a rendition of “Buffalo Return” by Jimmy LaFave. He acknowledges the contribution of his peers, indicating that collaboration with fellow songwriters like Adam Hood and Mando Saenz prompted the creation of tracks that blend varied influences while maintaining core themes.

Upcoming Recognition

A few days prior to the album’s release, Boland received the honor of being inducted into the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame, alongside notable bands such as Cross Canadian Ragweed and the Great Divide. This acknowledgment emphasizes Boland’s longstanding impact within the Red Dirt genre. He recalls a conversation with Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame executive director Tony Corbell, who remarked on his enduring presence in the music scene.

Live Performances and Future Aspirations

Boland, alongside his band, is set to tour extensively in support of The Last Kings of Babylon. He expresses enthusiasm for the live music experience, which he describes as dynamic art, always evolving with each performance. Despite his induction into the hall of fame serving as a reminder of his longevity, Boland maintains a humble perspective, stating, “I still feel like I’m in the middle of it, creating stuff.” He continues to engage in songwriting as he looks towards his next project, reaffirming his dedication to the craft daily.