Average. That is the word I would use to describe Sister Hazel's new album Heartland and Highway. It's not terrible, but it's also not anything worth buying. A year or two ago, I bought Sister Hazel's song "All For You" and really liked it, but I was not impressed with their latest album.

Filled with a heavy influence of country and bluegrass — the band has not stayed true to the rock style that I originally enjoyed.

With no pun intended, "At Your Worst" is one of the worst songs in the album. Its quiet guitar and monotone lyrics make me envision a cowboy that has run out of stamina. "Where You're Going" is better, but is still too country-influenced and relies too much on lyrics to keep the musical flow. My final complaint is the lack of diversity in the album. "Stay Awhile," "Far Away," and "Let the Fire Burn" all sound like the same song and lack unique or catchy lyrics.

The album is partially saved by the "Great Escape" and "The Saddest Song," which have a slower musical quality and really focus on the meaning of the lyrics which I found touching — but still could not make them amazing songs.

In short this album is a skip. Buy "Great Escape" and "The Saddest Song" individually, but don't buy the full album as there is better rock, as well as better country, out there.

Alex Wirth is a senior at Santa Fe Prep. You can reach him at AlxWirth@gmail.com.