On Change My Mind, Billy Ray shows off the bluesy, barrelhouse rocking style that really suits him best. Particularly on the title track and “Once Again,” Billy Ray’s smoky vocals are matched by power guitar riffs that play into his rock sensibilities.

The title track does pose an interesting point to ponder as far as what Billy Ray might be changing his mind about—there are those who have surmised retirement, for example. But perhaps analysis is not required. You can appreciate the tune for its soulful vocal and cool instrumental combination of pounding guitars and rolling banjo.

But Change My Mind has its tender moments as well. “Tomorrow Became Yesterday,” a poignant story about children, and “That’s What Daddys Do” both tap into family life and may even be a bit autobiographical.

“Hope Is Just Ahead,” however, is full of the airy philosophical meanderings that Billy Ray has seemed to favor over the years. And “Hillbilly Heart” serves as nothing more than the now-obligatory ode to country living.

Billy Ray’s at his best on bluesy offerings like the Elmore James-ish “I’m So Miserable Without You” and the album’s closer, “Stomp.”