Album Reviews
Whiskey Lies & Alibis: William Beckmann’s Bold New Album
Whiskey Lies & Alibis, the newest album of William Beckmann is officially out, and it’s a heartfelt 12-track collection full of heartbreak, healing, and the kind of honest storytelling that makes country music so timeless.
With its blend of rich, traditional sounds and deeply personal lyrics, this project feels like Beckmann’s most intimate work yet.
Hailing from the border town of Del Rio, Texas, Beckmann brings a rare perspective to country music. He draws from a wide range of influences — from icons like George Strait and Johnny Cash to the mariachi tradition and artists like Vicente Fernández. That cultural blend gives his music a sound that’s both fresh and rooted in something much deeper. It’s no wonder critics have called him “one of the premier traditional country singers of the new generation.”
William’s journey has taken him from dusty Texas dancehalls to a Grand Ole Opry debut in 2023. He’s shared the stage with big names like Parker McCollum and Hank Williams Jr., and he’s hitting the road again in 2025, continuing to grow a fanbase that stretches across generations and state lines.
Whiskey Lies & Alibis is easily Beckmann’s most personal and mature work yet. He co-wrote 8 of the 12 songs with songwriting heavy-hitters like Jessie Jo Dillon, Rhett Akins, and Jesse Frasure.
It’s got everything: heart-wrecking ballads, honky tonk bangers, moments of quiet reflection, and even a Spanish-language showstopper at the end. It’s the kind of album you want to play front to back, preferably with a drink in hand.
A Few Album Standouts We Can’t Stop Playing:
“Makin’ Them Hate Me” – One of the most fun tracks on the record, this one’s pure confidence and swagger. Co-written with rising star Matt Roy, William sings about walking into the bar with someone who turns every head in the room. It’s bold, cheeky, and has that grin-inducing line: “I’m the one you wanna tear down the town with.” It’s country cool at its finest.
“California Quake” – This one hits hard emotionally. It’s about pretending you’re okay after a breakup — but inside, you’re shaking like the song’s title. There’s something about the way William delivers this one that makes the heartbreak feel all too real. It’s sad, strong, and unforgettable.
“Neon Sounds” – This track is a whole mood. Slower and stripped down, it captures that last-call energy in the most cinematic way. You can see it all: the bartender wiping down the bar, a 21-year-old taking their first legal sip, a maybe-something brewing in a corner booth. All of it glows under soft neon lights, as the night hums with memories, regret, and the hope of something new. It’s one of the most vivid and emotional moments on the album.
“Por Mujeres Como Tú” – Beckmann ends the album with this gorgeous Spanish-language cover of Pepe Aguilar’s 1998 hit, and it’s more than just a tribute — it’s a proud moment that honors his Latino roots. Sung entirely in Spanish, it shows a whole other side of his artistry. His voice is smooth, emotional, and full of respect for the original while still making it his own.
With Whiskey Lies & Alibis, William Beckmann doesn’t just showcase where he’s been — he hints at where country music is going. His ability to bridge tradition with new perspective makes this album a must-listen for longtime country fans and new listeners alike. From honky tonk highs to heartbreak lows, this one’s got it all — and we’re here for every second.
WHISKEY LIES & ALIBIS Track List:
- Honky Tonk Blue (Chris Stapleton, Brice Long)
- Makin’ Them Hate Me (William Beckmann, Matt Roy, Daniel Ross)
- California Quake (William Beckmann, Ryan Beaver, Chris LaCorte)
- Lonely Over You (William Beckmann, Jessie Jo Dillon, Jesse Frasure)
- Neon Sounds (Dean Dillon, Brice Dillon)
- Whiskey Lies & Alibis (William Beckmann, Jessie Jo Dillon, Jesse Frasure)
- Game I Like To Play (Jessi Alexander, Ryan Beaver, Jessie Jo Dillon)
- Be Your Man (William Beckmann, Neil Medley, Andrew DeRoberts, Brinley Addington)
- Not That Strong (William Beckmann, Brice Long, Lindsay Rimes)
- Starting Over Again (William Beckmann, Harper O’Neill)
- Borderline Crazy (William Beckmann, Rhett Akins, Rian Ball)
- Por Mujeres Como Tú (Enrique Yanez Guzman)
Twitter ⎮Instagram⎮Youtube⎮Spotify⎮
0 comments