Janet Devlin emerged as a standout talent on the UK X Factor at the age of sixteen, immediately capturing audiences with her ethereal vocals and introspective songwriting. Hailing from Belfast, Northern Ireland, Devlin has consistently demonstrated an ability to transform personal experiences into art that resonates broadly. Her debut album, “Running With Scissors”, marked a defining moment in her career, establishing her unique artistic identity with an elegance and maturity beyond her years. She further cemented her reputation with her follow-up project, “Confessional”, a deeply personal folk-pop exploration that translated her struggles into a compelling musical narrative. Alongside the album, Devlin released her book “My Confessional”, offering fans an intimate window into her creative and emotional world. Her singles have achieved notable chart success, with tracks reaching number thirty-one on the Big Top 40, number fifteen on the UK iTunes Charts, and number four on the iTunes Country Charts, while also receiving extensive radio airplay across national and regional platforms. Notable highlights include month-long placements on the BBC Radio 2 B List Playlist for songs like “Red Flag” and “Best Life”, which also peaked at number thirty-eight on the UK Radio Monitor Airplay Top 100. Complemented by extensive press coverage from outlets such as the Daily Express, The Irish Post, and Wonderland, as well as appearances on programs including The Late Late Show Country Music Special and RTE1’s Ray D’Arcy Show, Devlin has established herself as a significant voice in contemporary music with a cross-genre appeal spanning pop, folk, and country influences.
Released on October 24th, 2025, “Not My First Emotional Rodeo” marks Janet Devlin’s continued evolution as a distinctive presence in the UK country and Americana scene. The album is a deluxe expansion of her earlier critically acclaimed record “Emotional Rodeo”, and it builds on its predecessor’s success with a collection of new tracks that explore both musical and emotional range. From the upbeat swagger of songs like “Candy” to the reflective mid-tempo rhythm of “If He Wanted To He Would”, Devlin demonstrates an ability to balance accessibility with narrative depth. Tracks such as “Plastic Pistol” introduce darker, western-inspired tension, while “Psycho Ex” offers playful bite and “Hooked” and “Houston” reveal wistful, melodic sensitivity. The inclusion of a live rendition of “I’ll Fly Away” recorded at Nashville’s Blackbird Studio and an acoustic reimagining of Kenny Rogers’ “The Gambler” highlights Devlin’s versatility, connecting traditional country influences with contemporary interpretation. These additions do more than extend the album, they reinforce her commitment to crafting a coherent, immersive musical journey.
Musically, “Not My First Emotional Rodeo” is characterized by a rich interplay of instrumentation and production choices that enhance the storytelling without overshadowing Devlin’s vocals. Acoustic guitars form the backbone of the arrangements, supplemented by subtle steel flourishes and nuanced percussion that add texture and depth. Melodic lines shift between contemplative melancholy and spirited uplift, mirroring the lyrical content and emotional trajectory of the songs. Devlin’s voice remains the centerpiece of the album, offering nuanced phrasing, authentic vulnerability, and confident bursts of strength that draw listeners into her world. The production is polished yet restrained, preserving the organic warmth of the instrumentation and allowing each song to breathe naturally. The balance between clarity and emotional depth ensures that every lyric, harmony, and instrumental detail contributes meaningfully to the album’s overarching narrative.
Not My First Emotional Rodeo Album Track List:
Cigarette Sweets:
“Cigarette Sweets” opens the album with a poignant reflection on youthful innocence and the bittersweet lessons that come with growing up. Janet Devlin uses the imagery of candy cigarettes as a metaphor for early rebellion and the inevitable consequences of adulthood, crafting lyrics that balance wistfulness and irony. Lines such as “Now there’s baccy in my lungs / No sugar on my tongue” reveal a subtle tension between memory and reality, capturing both nostalgia and the quiet regrets that accompany personal growth. The song immediately establishes a reflective tone that invites the listener into the album’s broader exploration of emotional evolution.
Musically, the track is grounded in warm acoustic guitars, with subtle steel guitar flourishes that evoke dusty roads and sunlit summers past. The melody alternates between sing-along accessibility and minor key melancholy, perfectly mirroring the duality of sweetness and sorrow embedded in the lyrics. Devlin’s vocal performance carries the emotional weight of the song, moving effortlessly between soft, intimate vulnerability and moments of register-driven strength. This dynamic ensures that the listener is not only hearing the story but feeling it in every note and phrasing.
The production of “Cigarette Sweets” emphasizes organic authenticity, beginning in an intimate, stripped-back manner before gradually building into a richer ensemble that reflects the lyrical journey from personal reflection to universal resonance. The track succeeds as both an emotional and thematic entry point for the album, setting the stage for a narrative of self-discovery, nostalgia, and emotional sophistication. Through its melodic charm, thoughtful instrumentation, and nuanced vocal delivery, “Cigarette Sweets” perfectly introduces the listener to the world of “Not My First Emotional Rodeo” while capturing the bittersweet essence of growing up.
Whiskey on My Breath:
“Whiskey on My Breath” is a haunting portrayal of self-destruction and regret, capturing a protagonist ensnared in cycles of addiction and emotional isolation. Janet Devlin’s lyrics are unflinching and vivid, with lines like “there’s whiskey on my breath / chaser of regret” presenting raw images of estrangement and alienation. The song does not sensationalize pain but instead embraces a human vulnerability, allowing the listener to empathize with the character’s struggles. Through her storytelling, Devlin conveys the tension between resignation and the desire for change, establishing a deeply introspective tone that anchors the album’s emotional landscape.
Musically, the track leans into traditional country balladry, employing slow, soulful tempos, twanging guitars, and layered pedal steel textures that evoke expansive emotional loneliness. The deliberate pacing of the melody mirrors the cyclical nature of the protagonist’s despair, giving Devlin space to deliver a vocal performance that is simultaneously gritty, weary, and profoundly expressive. Her phrasing captures the song’s heaviness without sacrificing clarity, allowing every note to resonate with the weight of lived experience. The instrumentation reinforces the narrative, creating a musical environment that feels both intimate and cinematic.
The production of “Whiskey on My Breath” emphasizes dynamic contrast, with sparse verses that gradually swell into layered choruses. This arrangement mirrors the emotional journey from quiet resignation to painful self-awareness, ensuring the vulnerability at the song’s core remains central. The combination of lyrical candor, restrained melodic development, and textured vocal delivery makes the track a standout emotional centerpiece of the album. Through its immersive storytelling and nuanced musicianship, “Whiskey on My Breath” solidifies Janet Devlin’s ability to convey complex, human emotions with both authenticity and artistry.
Houston:
“Houston” is a standout highlight of the deluxe edition, celebrating the exhilaration of solitude and self-reliance. Janet Devlin transforms the city’s name into a metaphor for personal freedom and introspection, with lyrics such as “Me myself on the intercom” reflecting both playful imagery and thoughtful reflection. The song explores the joy of independence without succumbing to loneliness, capturing a delicate balance between self-assured liberation and emotional authenticity. Through this lens, Devlin crafts a narrative that is both relatable and aspirational, inviting listeners to embrace their own journeys of self-discovery.
Musically, “Houston” leans into upbeat country rock, employing rhythmic handclaps, driving guitar riffs, and energizing percussion that evokes the sensation of open roads and boundless possibility. The melody reinforces the song’s celebratory tone, while Devlin’s vocals carry warmth and confidence, blending subtle country twang with pop sensibility. Her phrasing and dynamic control communicate a sense of joyous momentum, perfectly complementing the lyrical focus on independence and empowerment. The instrumental arrangement maintains a buoyant energy without overwhelming the story, allowing each element to contribute to the track’s spirited narrative.
The production of “Houston” emphasizes clarity and depth, layering instruments thoughtfully so both narrative and musical textures can breathe. The result is a cinematic, uplifting experience that draws the listener into the song’s world of self-reliance and exploration. As an empowering and infectious anthem, “Houston” successfully infuses modern country with reflective storytelling, creating a track that is memorable, dynamic, and emblematic of Janet Devlin’s evolution as an artist. Its vibrant energy and lyrical sophistication make it one of the deluxe edition’s most compelling additions.
Plastic Pistol:
“Plastic Pistol” introduces a playful and cinematic energy to the album, centering on a bold, flirtatious protagonist whose “plastic pistol” serves as a symbol of whimsy and daring. The lyrics skillfully balance dramatized danger with playful irony, creating a memorable character study that feels both theatrical and engaging. Set against a western-inspired backdrop, the song blends narrative intrigue with cheeky humor, giving listeners a sense of adventure while maintaining a lighthearted charm. Devlin’s storytelling allows the protagonist to come alive, offering a blend of confidence and narrative depth that draws the listener directly into the scene.
Musically, the track thrives on taut, cinematic guitar arrangements and steady, galloping rhythms that convey motion and tension while retaining a sense of fun. The instrumentation mirrors the protagonist’s swagger, providing both structure and momentum to the narrative. Devlin’s vocal performance is animated and confident, imbued with flirtation and spirited expression, complementing the song’s theatrical tone without descending into caricature. Her phrasing and dynamic control enhance the storytelling, ensuring the energy remains playful and compelling throughout.
The production layers guitars and percussion thoughtfully to create a textured, soundtrack-like soundscape that amplifies the cinematic quality of the track. “Plastic Pistol” succeeds as both a musical and narrative showcase, blending instrumental sophistication with bold vocal expression. The track adds a distinct theatrical flair to the album, expanding the emotional and stylistic palette of “Not My First Emotional Rodeo” and offering a vibrant contrast to the record’s more introspective moments. It stands as a confident, dynamic addition that highlights Devlin’s versatility as both a storyteller and performer.
Thematically, “Not My First Emotional Rodeo” navigates introspection, personal growth, resilience, and self-awareness, tracing the emotional highs and lows of Devlin’s experiences. The songwriting demonstrates sophistication and narrative craft, with vivid imagery and clever lyricism creating a cinematic atmosphere. Tracks shift fluidly from intimate reflection to dynamic intensity, sustaining engagement while maintaining authenticity. The deluxe format allows for the inclusion of tracks that had long been fan favorites, bringing songs that were central to her live performances into a studio context, thereby honoring both artist and audience. Devlin’s reinterpretation of “The Gambler” exemplifies this approach, transforming the well-known classic into a tender, slow-burning ballad that juxtaposes acoustic minimalism with vocal intimacy, creating a focal point that resonates across the record.
Not My First Emotional Rodeo Is A Richly Textured And Emotionally Honest Album That Transforms Personal Growth, Reflection, And Resilience Into A Warm, Cinematic Country Americana Experience Grounded In Authenticity And Storytelling
In sum, “Not My First Emotional Rodeo” solidifies Janet Devlin’s position as an artist of emotional depth and musical versatility. The album is a cohesive, immersive journey through country and Americana soundscapes, blending reflective lyricism with textured, dynamic instrumentation. It showcases her ability to balance vulnerability with artistic confidence, creating music that feels both personal and universally relatable. From the high-energy tracks to the contemplative ballads, each song contributes to a narrative that is at once cinematic, intimate, and deeply human. This record demonstrates Devlin’s ongoing mastery of storytelling through music, affirming her reputation as one of the most compelling voices in contemporary British country and Americana music.
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