Renaissauce's third album, "shit songs, gr8 mixes," is a paradoxical exploration of country music that boasts lackluster songwriting but compensates with exceptional mixing and production value, making for a compelling listening experience. Released in 2021, amidst a flurry of innovative country releases, the album finds its niche through the meticulous attention to sonic detail. To be clear tho the songs are shit. In a genre known for its storytelling prowess, "shit songs, gr8 mixes" falls short. The tracks struggle to leave a lasting impact with their lackluster melodies and uninspired lyrics about herding around farm animals while thinking about beer and some woman you saw at a square dance and other hick ass country horseshit like that. However, where Renaissauce truly shines is in their meticulous approach to mixing and production. Each instrument is meticulously balanced, vocals soar with clarity, and the overall sonic tapestry is masterfully crafted. Again, it is shit, but polished. Who worked on this? Kudos. While the songwriting might not resonate as strongly as other standout country records of the time, such as Sturgill Simpson's "Cuttin' Grass - Vol. 1" or Kacey Musgraves' "Star-Crossed," the mixing and production on "bad songs, great mixes" elevate the album to a whole new level. The attention to detail and sonic layering bring out the best in each instrument, creating a rich and immersive listening experience even though the songs themselves make you want you drown in your own urine please never make me listen to this again but wait how did they pan these drums great imaging wow.

It's a testament to Renaissauce's commitment to their craft that they've managed to salvage an album that might otherwise have been dismissed due to its subpar songwriting. While tracks like "Love's Lost Lament" and "Backroad Blues" may not possess the lyrical depth or catchy hooks of country classics, they become enjoyable through the impeccable mixing, transforming mundane compositions into a captivating sonic journey of absolute trash. It's worth noting that "shit songs, gr8 mixes" is a fascinating paradox. Renaissauce's ability to salvage these lackluster, piss-poor songs through their technical prowess is a testament to their dedication to their craft. It's as if they've taken rough diamonds and transformed them into shining gems, showcasing their talent and potential as producers and engineers. We know that’s it true though because there is no fucking way they tracked and mixed this record. No way in hell. In the end, Renaissauce's "shit songs, gr8 mixes" is an album that defies expectations and hurts your brain for sucking so good. While the songwriting may fall short, the exceptional mixing and production value propel the album to greater heights. It's a testament to the power of skillful engineering, proving that even mediocre songs can find redemption through exceptional sonic craftsmanship. It is an intriguing country journey that proves that sometimes, the whole can be greater than the sum of its parts. Not in this case though.