And I'm pretty sure he's not too hip in that crowd. I'd suggest that most EDM purists have no idea (or simply don't value) what a proper song is. So they're not gonna be impressed by the compositional value. I'd imagine they'd be more focused on critiquing the tonal quality of the synth patch that drives the chorus in 'Hey Brother'. Admittedly, it's a pretty cheesy patch but there's more to music than tone.

My interest is simply that the songs are undeniably 'effective' in the way Quest has advocated in evaluating music. They pull off exactly what they're trying to do and I'm suggesting it's a first in combining country with electronic dance pop. Specifically, that it's respectable/authentic in the contexts of both genres. It kinda bodes well for future endeavors in a hybrid sound of this type. I know I'm game to hear more attempts along these lines.

Sounds like the writing team (4 people) and the artists/vocalists let everyone do what they do best. Don't let the EDM producer write the chord changes....don't let the songwriter program the drums....let the singer utilize their style without trying to change what they do....To get a final product like that you need proper boundaries and delegation of roles. Imo, they nailed it.