It's been almost three years since Kellie Pickler released her second album -- but the wait for new music is almost over.

Pickler, who recently wrapped up recording on her next release, says fans can expect to hear her adopt a more traditional sound this time around.

"I really hope people dig the direction we are headed," she said during a recent interview with Taste of Country. "There’s lots of fiddle, lots of steel, and some of my favorite instruments. So I’m happy with where we are and where we are headed."

She reflected on her time in the studio, saying, "I’ve been able to work with some amazing musicians and writers. We’ve had so much fun in the studio. It’s really been such a blessing. It’s really been an incredible experience so far. We are very close to wrapping this whole thing up. We’ve still got the photo shoot and the artwork and what not, and then it will be ready to set out on the shelf after they distribute it all and make all the copies. I’m excited."

Her audience seems excited, too -- her latest single, 'Tough,' went to radio in June, and has already cracked the top 40 on Billboard's country chart.

Listen to Kellie Pickler's 'Tough'

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