Lead single and clear album standout Ex's and Oh's is a big, bouncy, swaggering and stomping boot of a country song, driven by King's retro roar and some slick, punchy production.
Unfortunately, its greatness makes everything else feel a little smaller, with King falling back on well-worn Americana tropes and letting her persona do the grunt work instead of relying on quality songwriting.
Promising, fun, but maybe not essential.
• Elle King. Love Stuff. Sony Music NZ.
• Three stars (out of five)
Single download: Ex's and Oh's
For those who like: Gin Wigmore, Mumford and Sons
- Sam Valentine
