Running Out of Memories by Amber Hayes: A Country-Folk Gem That Sticks Like Glitter on a Cowboy Hat
Let’s cut to the chase—Amber Hayes’ Running Out of Memories isn’t just another country album; it’s like sipping sweet tea on a porch swing while life buzzes around you. Released in 2014 under GMV Nashville, this record blends Country, Folk, and even some World vibes into a sound that feels both nostalgic and fresh. And yeah, there’s something about those tracks that’ll have you humming along before you realize you’re singing into your coffee mug.
Now, let’s talk standouts. First up is “If I Were In Your Boots.” This song hits different—it’s got that twangy wisdom mixed with heartache, like when your ex texts “we need to talk” but then ghosts you anyway. The lyrics are clever without trying too hard, painting pictures so vivid you can almost smell the barn wood and dusty boots. It’s one of those songs where you think, “Man, if only I could write breakup lines this good.” Plus, it shows up twice on the tracklist (once as a remix), which honestly? Bold move. But hey, when it works, it works.
Then there’s “Me & Loretta (Remix).” Oh boy, buckle up because this one’s a love letter to all things classic country. If Dolly Parton and Loretta Lynn had a musical baby, this would be its theme song. It’s playful yet deeply respectful, like wearing your grandma’s pearls to a honky-tonk bar. You feel connected to the roots of country music here, but with a modern twist that keeps things interesting. Also, who doesn’t love a remix done right? It’s like finding an extra fry at the bottom of the bag—a pleasant surprise every time.
The rest of the album has its moments too. Tracks like “Cotton Eyed Joe” bring back memories of line dancing awkwardly at weddings, while “Running Out of Memories” pulls at your heartstrings harder than a sobbing pedal steel guitar. Sure, not every track will make you wanna buy a cowboy hat and move to Nashville, but overall, it’s solid gold.
What sticks with me most about Running Out of Memories is how genuine it feels. Amber Hayes didn’t set out to reinvent the wheel here—she just polished it till it shone brighter than a new belt buckle. There’s no pretense, no overproduced nonsense. Just real stories told through killer melodies.
So yeah, give this album a spin if you’re looking for tunes that feel like home—even if home is just a playlist on shuffle. Because let’s face it: we’ve all been running out of memories sometimes, haven’t we? Except maybe mine involve more tacos and fewer cowboy hats.
Final thought: If this album were a person, it’d be the friend who always remembers your birthday but forgets they lent you five bucks last week. And honestly? We need more friends like that.