Jeff Bates Back with Jeff Bates

2/22/2008 Meaghan Mitchell After spending some time away from the country music limelight, Jeff Bates is making a return with an upcoming album release set for April 8. The new album is simply titled Jeff Bates, and Jeff says it afforded him the opportunity to spotlight his songwriting ability. “It's the most honest and accurate representation of me and my music yet,” says Jeff, whose first album, Rainbow Man, featured the hits “The Love Song” and “Long, Slow Kisses.” Jeff’s latest album was produced by songwriter Kenny Beard, who wrote “The Rest of Mine” and "Where the Stars and Stripes and The Eagle Fly,” Mickey Jack Cones, who's worked with Blaine Larsen and Billy Gilman, and keyboard player Jimmy Nichols, who's played on hits by Faith Hill and Reba McEntire. “Working with Jeff on this new album reminded me of why I came to Nashville,” says Jimmy. “Great songs, great singing, and passion for the music. Jeff is the future of country music, but he never lets us forget its past.” The first single from the self-titled album, “Don't Hate Me for Loving You,” is set for release next week.