After a lengthy wait, Brent Cobb has returned with new music. His latest single, “Snakebite” marks his first release since the critically acclaimed Southern Star debuted last September, making its much-anticipated arrival on streaming platforms last Friday.
Co-written by Cobb, Channing Wilson, and Jeremy Spillman, the track is spare, featuring only acoustic guitar and vocals. But as always, Cobb does a lot with a little. Sung in first person, he paints the picture of a dark and malignant world, with each verse narrating a hero who anticipates danger around every corner. In the chorus, with his gruff, soulful voice, Cobb offers a grave warning: “watch your step; boy don’t let your guard down around here; the devil always plays for keeps.”
The song’s toned-down production, which perfectly captures Cobb’s raw performance, is sure to make it a favorite. And despite its dark theme, it offers a glimmer of hope for those of us who are eager for more new music. At the same time, it’s not like Cobb has taken any time off — he has been, and continues to be, heavily touring, and he’s a sought-after songwriter, recently landing a cut on Miranda Lambert’s new album, Postcards from Texas (“January Heart”).
Meanwhile, his (Southern) star continues to rise — he’s headlining Ryman Auditorium for the first time on December 5, so if you’re local, be sure to grab a ticket. For non-Nashvillians, check if he’s coming your way here, and listen to “Snakebite” below.