Miranda Lambert’s 'Crisco' Blends Country and Disco, Drawing Mixed Reviews
Miranda Lambert released her 11th major-label album, 'Crisco,' on October 2, 2026. The 12-track project marks a significant stylistic shift, fusing traditional country with late-1970s disco influences. Produced by Jesse Frasure, the album features collaborations with Chris Stapleton and Ella Langley. While praised for its polished production and nostalgic appeal, critics note a lack of lyrical depth compared to Lambert’s previous work.
Key points
- The album 'Crisco' was released on October 2, 2026, and consists of 12 tracks.
- It features a duet with Chris Stapleton titled 'A Song to Sing' and a collaboration with Ella Langley on 'Snakeskin Boots.'
- Lambert described the album as a 'honky-tonk-meets-Studio-54 fever dream,' aiming to balance country and disco influences intentionally.
- The title 'Crisco' is a portmanteau of 'Country' and 'Disco,' a term Lambert noted she was surprised no one had coined before.
- Lambert is currently the most nominated female artist in CMA Awards history, with 70 career nominations, including a record 19th nomination for female vocalist of the year.
Background
This release follows Lambert’s recent work co-producing and writing for Ella Langley’s 'Dandelion' album. It also comes after a period where Lambert advocated for shelter pets through the MuttNation Foundation. The album’s release coincides with Lambert’s upcoming performance at The Truth venue in Nashville, where she will reimagine her catalog with a full string orchestra.
How outlets are covering it
Saving Country Music criticizes the album for its lack of lyrical substance, arguing that while the concept is fun, the songs often say 'so much nothing.' The reviewer compares it unfavorably to Lambert’s deeper works like 'The Weight of These Wings' and notes that the disco influence, while nostalgic, lacks the poetic depth of classic tracks like 'Islands in the Stream.' In contrast, USA Today highlights Lambert’s creative freedom and her intention to 'operate in her gifting,' emphasizing the album’s polished production and the personal stories behind the songs, such as the origin of the title track and the use of Dolly Parton’s jewelry in the 'A Song to Sing' video.
Why it matters
The album represents a bold attempt by a country icon to redefine the genre by blending it with disco, potentially influencing future trends in country music. It also highlights the ongoing debate about the balance between nostalgic aesthetics and substantive songwriting in contemporary country music.
What to watch
Lambert will open The Truth venue in Nashville on October 1 with a show featuring her catalog reimagined with strings. She is also set to receive CMA Awards on November 18, where she is nominated for female vocalist of the year for the 19th time.
- Album Review – Miranda Lambert’s “Crisco” - Saving Country Music
- How Miranda Lambert Went From ‘Gun-Toting Redneck’ to ‘Choosin’ Texas’ and Joy nytimes.com
- Disco, Drag Queens, and Hairspray: Miranda Lambert Is Ready to Party Rolling Stone
- Miranda Lambert shares the real stories behind her new hits | Exclusive USA Today
- The record-breaking, genre-melting, career-redefining evolution of Miranda Lambert npr.org
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