IT IS hard to believe that it is 12 years since Brad Paisley launched his first album on the unsuspecting public. Eight studio albums, two compilations, 28 singles, 19 number one records and a multitude of international accolades and awards later, he has earned the superstar status.

His last release in the UK was This Is Country Music and the title track went to the number two in the charts. I have yet to hear an album from Paisley that could be criticised, and this release is no exception. There’s brilliant instrumentation throughout, great choice of material and it’s sung and played to perfection with a great overall production. Guests appearances include Carrie Underwood, Alabama, Clint Eastwood, Blake Shelton, Marty Stuart, Carl Jackson and Sheryl Crow. Paisley returns to Britain next month for tour dates of: August 17 London O2 Arena, August 19 Dublin, Olympia Theatre; August 20 V Festival, Chelmsford, and August 21V Festival Staffordshire. If you’re a musician, especially a guitarist, this album could make you want to burn your guitar, either that or save up for extra finger transplants. I’ll be playing three tracks on this Saturday’s American Connection on euvue.co.uk