By Billy DukesOriginal Source: tasteofcountry.comWalker Hayes wears scars like they're badges of honor. He talks about his faults like someone else would brag about their kids. He'll sing about having his van repossessed or being an alcoholic like another singer would croon about a winning over a pretty girl.Poetically, rhythmically, matter-of-factly Hayes brings fans so close to the truth that he needed to double check with his wife Laney to make sure she was comfortable with the level of voyeurism on his just-released Boom album, an album made possible by the progressive strides of artists like Sam Hunt. On "Halloween," a duet with songwriter Nicolle Galyon, he's just telling his great love story. With "Craig" he's saying thank you. On "Beer in the Fridge" he's shedding the shame that often comes with admitting and accepting an addiction.

"Talking about my addiction to alcohol is therapeutic. Most definitely telling...click here to continue reading