[tweetmeme]Nashville singer-songwriter Dave Barnes must be one of the best singer-songwriters that none of your friends have ever heard of.  No doubt they’ve heard his writing, though – he was nominated for a Grammy® last year for his song, “God Gave Me You,” — yeah, that’s right — the song that Blake Shelton covered and made a hit on Country radio.

This week, Dave is releasing his latest full-length record.  Stories to Tell is an ecclectic mix of songs from a versatile songwriter.  ”How Long” is a percussive little pop tune.  ”Heaven Help Me” seems to be a little bit more experimental instrumentally for Barnes and it’s a lot of fun.

With songs like “Love Will Be Enough For Us” and “Stories To Tell,” it’s easy to recognize the multitude of influences that must come with being surrounded by music in Nashville.  After all, though it’s known for its overwhelmingly famous country scene, Nashville is a budding hub for alternative rock and pop musicians like Mat Kearney, Madi Diaz and Katie Herzig.

“Warm Heart In A Cold World” shows Dave’s versatility with its R&B inspired riffs and velvety beat.  It’s a nice little contrast from the rest of the record.

The verdict: Dave Barnes is a genre-blending mass of talent and he won’t be a secret for long.  Check out the record.