Cory Marks’ Sorry For Nothing, Vol. 2 isn’t just a sequel; it’s an evolution, a statement, and a near-flawless execution of his genre-defying “outlaw rock” vision. Where the first volume introduced his potent blend of country storytelling and hard rock ferocity, this album perfects it. This is the sound of an artist not just finding his lane, but paving his own goddamn highway.
From the opening chords of the incendiary “Hangman,” it’s clear that Marks is operating at a new level of confidence and musical prowess. The production is colossal, a wall of sound that feels both meticulously crafted and wildly explosive. His signature gravel-and-grit voice is no longer just a compelling instrument; it’s a commanding force, carrying tales of rebellion, regret, and resilience with an authenticity that’s impossible to ignore.
The album’s brilliance lies in its dynamic range and refusal to be pigeonholed. The track, “Wild Ride,” is a blistering rock anthem with a chorus designed for stadiums, its defiance palpable. This is immediately contrasted by the nuanced storytelling of “The Heart Breaks When It Wants To,” a track that marries Southern rock swagger with the heart of a classic country ballad, showcasing Marks’ exceptional songwriting depth.
Then there’s “Whiskey River,” a track that stands as one of the more country side of the album. The concept is clever, and the execution is perfect. It’s a prime example of how Marks pushes the boundaries of what modern country-rock can be.
The Verdict:
Sorry For Nothing, Vol. 2 is a triumph. Cory Marks has not only avoided the “sophomore slump” but has arguably crafted a definitive album for the modern rock-and-country landscape. The songwriting is sharper, the hooks are more massive, and the musical ambition is through the roof. It’s an album that respects its roots while fiercely charging into the future, offering something for everyone: headbangers, honky-tonkers, and anyone who appreciates music delivered with unapologetic passion and supreme skill.
This is more than just a great album from Cory Marks; it’s a landmark release that sets a new benchmark for what’s possible at the intersection of rock and country. An absolute must-listen.
In 2019, Billboard deemed Cory Marks’ top 10 Rock Radio single “Outlaws and Outsiders” (which features country music icon Travis Tritt, Ivan Moody of Five Finger DeathPunch, and Mick Mars of Motley Crue) the “hit that couldn’t be confined”. The same statement could be said about Cory himself, who has exploded onto airwaves and tour stages over the past few years, establishing himself as a forefather of the popular Country Rock Fusion sound that has become so popular with artists like Hardy, Bailey Zimmerman and Brantley Gilbert storming the charts in 2022 and 2023. Mixing the storytelling tradition of country music and the loud, unapologetic sounds of heavy rock; Cory’s music blasts with an aggressive, soulful edge. 2020 saw the release of his critically acclaimed debut album WHO I AM – spawning fan favorites like “Devil’s Grin” and “Blame It On The Double”. In 2021 Cory released his complimentary EPs “Nashville Nights” and “Nashville Mornings” and in 2022 Cory released his rock-focused “I Rise” EP on the heels of his feature-film debut in “The Retaliators” with Jacoby Shaddix of Papa Roach, and labelmates Five Finger Death Punch, The HU, and Eva Under Fire. Despite his recent achievement of eclipsing 188 million career streams and a Platinum certification in his home country of Canada for “Outlaws & Outsiders”, Cory remains grounded and grateful. Rooted in the influence of his hometown in North Bay, Ontario, where he grew up surrounded by its salt-of-the-earth residents, Cory is undoubtedly himself, not just as a musician, but as a person. He continues to be influenced by the acts that drew him to writing and performing in the first place: Bryan Adams, The Rolling Stones, Deep Purple, Rush, Ozzy Osbourne, Brad Paisley and most notably Merle Haggard, who Cory embodies in his own 21st century way.
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