A Rock (stylized in all caps) is the debut studio album by American country music singer Hardy, released on September 4, 2020, via Big Loud Records.
Content Joey Moi and Derek Wells produced the entire album, with co-production from David Garcia on "Where Ya At" and from Jake Mitchell on "Unapologetically Country as Hell" and the title track. The album is a followup to Hardy's EP Hixtape, Vol. 1. "One Beer", featuring Devin Dawson and Lauren Alaina, is the lead single.
Critical reception Jeff Lincoln of Country Standard Time reviewed the album favorably, complimenting Hardy's unconventional appearance for a country musician, as well as his lyrical skill and combination of country and rock influences. He concluded his review with "it's got authentic appeal, and Hardy's found the right label at Big Loud Records. Country music was always more than the hats anyhow". Zackary Kephart of Country Universe rated the album one out of five stars, stating that "he's a detailed writer, and that's why, I think, most people haven't immediately written this off as an attempt at any sort of revival of the trend itself. It's just that his details are completely unlikable". He also criticized the mixing and production of Joey Moi and Hardy's limited vocal range.
Track listing
Notes All track titles are stylized in all caps.
Personnel Credits adapted from Tidal. Hardy – lead vocals Joey Moi – production, mixing Derek Wells – production David Garcia – production on "Where Ya At" Jake Mitchell – production on "Unapologetically Country as Hell" and "A Rock" Ted Jensen – mastering Andrew Mendelson – mastering Jeff Balding – engineering Ally Gecewicz – editing, studio assistance Elvind Nordland – editing Scott Cooke – editing Ryan Yount – engineering assistance Sean R. Badum – engineering assistance Tori Alamaze – art direction, design Tanner Gallagher – cover photo, photography Chris Hornbuckle – photography
Charts
Weekly charts Chart (2020) Peak position Australian Country Albums (ARIA) 20
Year-end charts Chart (2020) Position US Top Country Albums (Billboard) 63
Chart (2021) Position US Top Country Albums (Billboard) 30
Chart (2023) Position US Independent Albums (Billboard) 38 US Top Country Albums (Billboard) 36
Certifications
References