As someone who grew up listening to country music, Blake Shelton was always a big name in my household. From listening to “I’ll Name the Dogs” on road trips with my grandparents or “Sangria” at the beach with my siblings, his songs were always on repeat.

Four years after his last album release, Shelton released his latest album, “For Recreational Use Only” May 9. The album is an emotional roller coaster — riding through the country lifestyle and the heartbreak of grief.

I’ve listened to my fair share of emotional country music, but I have yet to hear a song as gut wrenching as “Let Him in Anyway.” The song walks through the grief after losing a close friend, begging God to let him into heaven regardless of not being a perfect person. It’s one of the most vulnerable songs Shelton has released, and will break the hearts of everyone listening.

The album features a collaboration with his wife, Gwen Stefani, in “Hangin’ On.” The song is about holding onto a previous love and not wanting to let go of each other. It is another emotional ballad, but the most impressive part is the vocals. The couple’s voices blend together well, and Stefani’s voice was a perfect addition. 

For those who enjoy happier songs, “Stay Country or Die Tryin’” and “Texas” embody the love of country living. With references to George Strait and lyrics about patriotism, a love for life and confidence, the songs are the perfect vibe for sitting by the lakeside with a fishing rod in hand.

This album has a song for everyone — whether it’s a heart-wrenching song about loss or an uplifting song for the love of nature. As someone who grew up listening to Shelton and other country artists, this album takes me back to my childhood with an overwhelming feeling of nostalgia. “For Recreational Use Only” was the perfect comeback album and will be on repeat in my headphones.