Get That Man a Beer EP (Big Machine, 2019)

Riley Green's "Get That Man A Beer" EP includes a strong quartet of modern country songs. None better than "Numbers On The Cars," though. It's the perfectly appropriate song to pull out whenever arguing the case for what real country music does best. Chronicling the trials and tribulations of an Alzheimer's-afflicted father, it's difficult to imagine any other genre bettering this one. Its various lyrical scenarios spotlight the confusing inconsistencies often found in those suffering from this crippling ailment. This father may tragically no longer recognize his own son, but he'll never forget the numbers for his favorite NASCAR drivers, nor the sound of Merle Haggard's voice. It's so sad, it could make Tim McGraw cry.

On a slightly lighter note, "Get That Man A Beer" salutes another guy for taking a troubling woman off his hands. "In Love By Now," a midtempo country rocker that namedrops Tom Petty, bemoans one - and a much better one - that got away. "Bettin' Man" is about a guy who's so sure he knows what his ex is doing now, he could put money on it.

Green's music incorporates just the right balance of modern production, with traditional elements - like steel guitar - to appeal to a wide range of country music fans. For making music this satisfying, someone should buy Riley Green a beer.