Country And Western

1. Home on the Range

2. Skip to My Lou

3. Shenandoah

4. Strawberry Roan

5. Pretty Red Wing

6. Sweet Betsy from Pike

7. Yellow Rose of Texas

8. Oh, My Darling Clementine

9. Cowboy's Prayer

10. O' Bury Me Not on the Lone Prairie

Country And Western,David Allan Coe,King,Country,Country & Western,Pop

Average customer rating: Bon Jovi does The Jayhawks How about NO? Never Disappointed Jon Bon Jovi just keeps getting better Bon Jovi delivers

Lost Highway Bon Jovi Manufacturer: Mercury Nashville ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Contemporary Country | Country | Styles | Music General | Country | Styles | Music Contemporary | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Similar Items: My December It Won't Be Soon Before Long Big Dog Daddy 5th Gear Have a Nice Day ASIN: B000P2A24W Release Date: 2007-06-19

Tracks:

1. Lost Highway
2. Summertime
3. Make a Memory
4. Whole Lot Of Leaving
5. We Got It Going On
6. Any Other Day
7. Seat Next To You
8. Everybody's Broken
9. Stranger (feat. Leann Rimes)
10. The Last Night
11. One Step Closer
12. I Love This Town

Amazon.com

Given the chart success of their Grammy-winning country single "Who Says You Can't Go Home," it's no surprise Bon Jovi upped the ante by recording an entire album paying homage to Nashville. In some ways, it's amazing they didn't do this sooner, given the way Keith Urban in particular is blurring country-pop lines, much as Garth Brooks and others did in the 1990s. To their credit, you won't find predictably shallow invocations of past country icons or any self-conscious, in-your-face down-home twang added strictly to remind the listener of the musical premise. In fact, Lost Highway isn't "Bon Jovi goes country" so much as a meaningful tribute to the Nashville ethos done on their own terms. They honor the spirit of the town through 12 simple, direct originals. The intimate, smoldering "(You Want To) Make a Memory," the ballad "Seat Next To You," "Lost Highway" and its roaring celebration of freedom, and "Stranger," an effective duet with LeAnn Rimes, all invoke country's spirit, and "I Love This Town," an eloquent nod to Nashville itself, ties it together admirably. --Rich Kienzle

Album Description

"Artistic freedom made this record possible," says Jon Bon Jovi. "Musical freedom to explore--and emotional freedom to express what was in our hearts."

The result of that freedom is Lost Highway, an album Jon describes as "a Bon Jovi record influenced by Nashville."

Bon Jovi explains. "Nashville is all about songs and songwriters. If you're someone like me who loves songs and hanging out with songwriters, Nashville is the place. I thrive on that feeling and I'm inspired by that creative ambience."

The result, a haunting set of 12 new and original sounding songs, is a stunning, multi-layered look into the nature of love and life in all its glory. Love, like life, is lost, found, forgotten and reclaimed in this collection.

The moods are many, but the core feeling is pure Bon Jovi.

"Writing this record with Jon was deeply cathartic," says Richie Sambora, who collaborated on ten of the songs. "I was going through emotional changes that were new for me. An ailing father. A painful divorce. The start of a new chapter in my life. I poured everything I had into this project, every last bit of soul at my command."

"For over twenty years now," Jon explains, "Richie and I have been close collaborators. Even when our songs create fictional stories, they reveal our states of mind. To a large degree, Lost Highway focuses on the light that love brings. When you shine the light on love, you see the chinks in the armor. You see every crevice, every crack. And that's all right".

Lost Highway is Bon Jovi's tenth studio album since the band formed in the early eighties. One hundred and twenty million albums and 2500 concerts in over 50 countries later, Bon Jovi is enjoying the greatest popularity in their history.

Customer Reviews:

Bon Jovi does The Jayhawks.......2007-07-18

Yeah, if I'd never heard this sound before I may have given it 5 stars, because it sounds very good.

However, if you're at all familiar with The Jayhawks, especially the brilliant and criminally overlooked "Smile" then you've heard this before.

They may call it country in some reviews but others have identified this sound as "Americana" and that's what I'm going with. Harmonies, strings, beats and rhythms, it's all here as clear and crisp as Bon Jovi can give it.

Go ahead and give it a whirl and, if you like it, listen to "Smile" by The Jayhawks also.

Nice stuff.

How about NO?.......2007-07-18

Wow, I can't believe all the glowing reviews for this album.

Heres my quick review of it - you don't have to agree with everything I'm saying:

1. If you likes Bon Jovi's work so far, then you would love this. Its more of the same, nothing Groundbreaking, nothing revolutionary.

2. This is one of those `flavor of the month' albums that garner a lot of blog praise, but later in the year no one will even remember it.

3. Though some of the rock tunes here are good (in an `averagey' sort of way), none of them are memorable (even after three listens)

4. Theres this OVERWHELMING feeling of `been there, done that'. In fact, the entire album sounds very tired to me.

5. You could do much better than fall for the hype.

I would highly recommend the new White STripes album over this one, anyday.

Two Stars. Skip this one.

Never Disappointed.......2007-07-18

I absolutley love this CD, even with the country sound. I have been a fan of Bon Jovi for a very long time, have every CD they have ever made (plus DVD). This is way better than the last CD.

Jon Bon Jovi just keeps getting better.......2007-07-17

Country music done Bon Jovi-style is something worth investing in. Though a lot of people feel that Bon Jovi has `sold out', the truth is that this is a very solid country-rock album, in the best sense of that term.

Credit Jon Bon Jovi for knowing exactly what to do with the right tune. Every song here is a killer, and don't judge the album by the merits of the first single (as great as the song is). "Lost Highway" only suffers when it tends to get a little sappy for its' own good (the lyrics tend to veer toward Richard Marx territory every so often), but the core of the album screams `country'!

The standout tracks are "Stranger" - a strangely successful duet with LeAnn Rimes, and "I Love this Town", where the boys sing to Nashville.

Everything on this record just WORKS. Yes, its no `Slippery When Wet' or even `Blaze of Glory', but if you like tuning into an artists' evolution, then this is the album for you. Just can't go wrong.

Bon Jovi delivers.......2007-07-17

I had not hear any of the songs from the album before I bought it. But being a long time Bon Jovi fan, I figured I couldn't go wrong. I was right. Just 30 seconds into the title track and I could tell this was a winner. After listening to it a few times I start to hear some of the country influence, but trust me, it rocks in typical Bon Jovi fashion. Every track is fantastic! If you're a Bon Jovi fan, buy this album. You won't be disappointed. They definitely have "Got it going on!"

Nice job Jon and company. Keep 'em coming!

Average customer rating: Just Brad Two Thumbs Down Brad is always great 5 STARS hands down! Includes two bonus tracks ... No filler here!

5th Gear Brad Paisley Manufacturer: Arista ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Contemporary Country | Country | Styles | Music New Traditionalist | Contemporary Country | Country | Styles | Music General | Country | Styles | Music Contemporary | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music Similar Items: Big Dog Daddy Between Raising Hell and Amazing Grace Let It Go Lost Highway Relentless ASIN: B000PFUA9G Release Date: 2007-06-19

Tracks:

1. All I Wanted Was A Car
2. Ticks
3. Online
4. Letter To Me
5. I'm Still A Guy
6. Some Mistakes
7. It Did
8. Mr. Policeman
9. If Love Was A Plane
10. Oh Love Featuring Carrie Underwood
11. Better Than This
12. With You, Without You
13. Previously Featuring Kung Pao Buckaroos (Little Jimmy Dickens,
14. Bigger Fish To Fry Featuring Kung Pao Buckaroos (Little Jimmy Dickens,
15. When We All Get To Heaven
16. Throttleneck

Amazon.com

Like his friend Vince Gill, Brad Paisley has achieved the often-difficult feat of reconciling being an entertainer and world-class guitarist. He's proven that on four admirable albums, and 5th Gear follows in that vein. Certainly "Ticks," an airy, radio-friendly ditty, is not the true substance here. That comes with such superior fare as the insightful "All I Wanted Was a Car" and "Online," a sly satire of people's Web facades. While his duet with Carrie Underwood ("Oh Love") is a bit cut and dried, Paisley ably handles "Letter to Me," "It Did," and "Mr. Policeman," a 21st-century outrun-the-law tune. The closing hymn, "When We All Get to Heaven," and ripping instrumental "Throttleneck" are Paisley at his best. It's admirable that he invites his venerable buddies, Little Jimmy Dickens, George Jones, Vince Gill, and Bill Anderson, along with Dolly Parton, to join in, but the obligatory "Kung Pao Buckaroos" skit is wearing a bit thin. Better to feature them musically, the way he includes Dickens, Gill, and Anderson on "Bigger Fish to Fry." In a time where lines between county and pop are blurring far too much, it's comforting to know Paisley still realizes and respects the differences. --Rich Kienzle

Customer Reviews:

Just Brad.......2007-07-18

I suspect the reviewer who gave the album one star doesn't know what he's talking about!

5th Gear is just Brad. It's a Brad Paisley record, it's fun, serious, romantic and sweet and all in a perfectly shaped package. The only big disappointment is that there was nothing to match "She's Everything" from Time Well Wasted, but all in all, an amazing album, and deserves one of my album of the year accolades.

Two Thumbs Down.......2007-07-17

I haven't heard anything like this since Ashlee Simpson was on Saturday Night Live. Indeed, I suspect this guy lyp syncs at concerts. In fact, someone else sings for him in the studio and he pretends to sing on stage. His music is not true to the great rock and roll tradition handed down to us from Chuck Berry and his contemporaries. Anyone who already has this should throw it on the floor and stomp on it.

Brad is always great.......2007-07-16

Probably not the most magnificent Brad's album, but it's only a pleasure to hear he play and sing.

5 STARS hands down! Includes two bonus tracks ..........2007-07-16

This CD is one of the best country albums I have bought in a long time. This is a complete work that will keep you entertained and laughing many times over.

The album begins with `All I Wanted Was A Car,' which is the twangy feel good song featured on the beach commercial on TV. `Ticks' is the smash hit, similar in nature to his previous hit `Alcohol.' `Online' is a hilarious parody to everyone taking their lives online, and lying about it! Although this song will become quickly dated, it is still a great song that reflects our current times.

After working past his more serious song `Letter to Me,' Paisley quickly jumps back to his funny and entertaining style with `I'm Still A Guy.' This song is one of the best on the album. "These days there's dudes getting facials / Manicured, waxed and botoxed / With deep spray on tans and creamy lotiony hands, you can't grip a tackle box / ... I don't highlight my hair, yeah honey I still got a pair .... My eyebrows ain't plucked, theres a shotgun in my truck ... thank God I'm still a Guy!"

`Some mistakes' are too much fun, and `It Did' are serious songs that almost anyone can relate to: from getting married, to having kids.

`Mr. Policeman' is a brilliant display of Paisley's fretwork on the guitar, and it doesn't stop until he goes to the pen!

`If Love Was a Plane' and `Oh Love' (featuring Carrie Underwood) add the sappy relationship material to the album, which is necessary for some folks!

Paisley shines once again in `Bigger Fish to Fry.' This song plays off of `I'm Still A Guy.' "I cuss. I smoke. I laugh at dirty jokes ... I've closed down bars. My x's think I ought to burn in hell. But the devil, he won't notice when I die ... don't ya figure he's got bigger fish to fry!"

Interestingly, Paisley completely shifts gears by adding in `When we All Get to Heaven' before ending with his brilliant instrumental titled `Throttleneck.' What a way to end!

Overall, this album is 5 STARS WITHOUT A DOUBT! With a mixture of a little bit of everything ... from just fun rocking songs, to sappy love songs, to a church Hymn, to more comical ideas, Paisley is sure to make you sing along, laugh, and reflect on life. There is a song for everyone on this album ... and you would really be missing out if you only downloaded the hit songs recommended on iTunes.

Furthermore, there are two hidden tracks at the end of the album! Enjoy!

No filler here!.......2007-07-13

Brad Paisley has always made good, cohesive, filler-free albums, and this is no exception. In fact, there's only ONE song I'm not crazy about. The other 14 or so are SO GOOD, that this CD has not come out of my player since I got it two weeks ago!

Nowhere in country music will you find someone as talented at singing, guitar playing, and songwriting as Paisley. He makes everything seem effortless, which allows for a very enjoyable album. Start to finish, it's the best album release this year.

Some of the highlights are the singles (or obvious future singles) "Ticks", "Online", "I'm Still a Guy", and "All I wanted was a Car". I have to say, however, that my favorites are the more powerful ballads like "It Did" and the outstanding "With You, Without You" (which includes a two minute guitar masterpiece at the end). The lyrics in this song will make you misty eyed, no doubt.

It's true that "Oh Love" could've been much more of a song, but it's still good. And the Kung Pao Buckaroos skit is wearing very thin in my eyes, but the collaboration on "Bigger Fish to Fry" is an outstanding display of talent. It's especially fun to hear how good Paisley's voice is compared to everyone else's.

I can't rant enough about this album. Brad has always made strong, consistently fun and thoughtful albums, and this is no exception. Don't hesitate to pick it up!

Average customer rating: Relaxing Music Not a traditional bluegrsss album, but worth listening to several times before judging Alison Krauss CD Buy Two Can Allison get any better?

A Hundred Miles or More: A Collection Alison Krauss Manufacturer: Rounder / UMGD ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Contemporary Country | Country | Styles | Music New Traditionalist | Contemporary Country | Country | Styles | Music General | Country | Styles | Music General | Traditional Country | Country | Styles | Music General | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music Contemporary | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music Traditional | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music General | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Traditional Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Rounder Records | Specialty Stores | Music Similar Items: The Calling Waking Up Laughing Not Too Late West Call Me Irresponsible ASIN: B000ND91SG Release Date: 2007-04-03

Tracks:

1. You're Just a Country Boy
2. Simple Love
3. Jacob's Dream
4. Away Down the River
5. Sawing on the Strings
6. Down to the River to Pray
7. Baby Mine
8. Molly Bán
9. How's the World Treating You (duet with James Taylor)
10. The Scarlet Tide
11. Whiskey Lullaby (duet with Brad Paisley)
12. You Will Be My Ain True Love
13. I Give You to His Heart
14. Get Me Through December
15. Missing You (duet with John Waite)
16. Lay Down Beside Me (previously unreleased duet with John Waite)

Amazon.com

A Hundred Miles or More carries the subtitle A Collection, and what a curious collection it is--cuts from soundtracks, side projects, and tribute albums, plus guest duets on other artists' albums and five previously unreleased tracks. In other words, this is a collection of Alison Krauss performances that have never appeared on an Alison Krauss album, though it holds together better than such a grab-bag approach might suggest. Highlights such as her duet with Brad Paisley on "Whiskey Lullaby" and her a cappella rendition of "Down to the River to Pray" from O Brother, Where Art Thou? will be familiar to most Krauss fans, though it's doubtful that many share her infatuation with retro rocker John Waite (with whom she revives his "Missing You" and duets on a cover of Don Williams's "Lay Down Beside Me."). Other projects represented range from Disney to the Chieftains to the Louvin Brothers (she duets with James Taylor on their "How's the World Treating You." There's minimal contribution from her Union Station band--making this a solo release by default--and little information to indicate whether the previously unreleased tracks were outtakes from earlier releases or recently recorded for this one. --Don McLeese

More Alison Krauss

Lonely Runs Both Ways

Live

Now That I've Found You: A Collection

Album Description

"A Hundred Miles or More: A Collection" is comprised of 16 tracks, highlighting Alison Krauss's career outside of her traditional releases with longtime band Union Station. The album features Krauss's collaboration with John Waite on the single "Missing You," as well as Krauss's contributions to film soundtracks, including the Oscar-nominated songs "The Scarlet Tide" and "You Will Be My Ain True Love," written for the motion picture "Cold Mountain," and "Down to the River to Pray" from the film "O Brother, Where Art Thou?" Known for her collaborations, Krauss also includes several duets in the collection such as the 2003 hit with Brad Paisley, "Whiskey Lullaby," and her duet with James Taylor for the tribute album "Livin', Lovin', Losin': Songs of the Louvin Brothers," "How's the World Treating You." The collection debuts five new songs: "You're Just a Country Boy," "Jacob's Dream," "Simple Love," "Lay Down Beside Me," and "Away Down the River," all of which feature Krauss as a producer.

Customer Reviews:

Relaxing Music.......2007-07-18

This cd is wonderful. It is great to listen to in the car when you need something soft and relaxing. Alison Krauss has the voice of an angel. I highly recommend this cd.

Not a traditional bluegrsss album, but worth listening to several times before judging.......2007-07-17

Many remakes dot this album. Some very surprising collabrations. AK could have done very standard remakes, but instead reinvented many songs. I prefer Simple Love, which is not a remake, Sawing on Strings, a very traditional bluegrass song. These are two songs she is singing on her current tour with Union Station. She does not sing any of the duet songs on this album on her current tour.

Alison Krauss CD.......2007-07-15

Beautiful voice and great songs, but somewhat melancholy. You have to be in the right mood to listen to it.

Buy Two.......2007-07-14

If you like Alison Krauss, you had better buy two of these. It's fabulous.
You'll wear it out.

Can Allison get any better?.......2007-07-11

Just when I think she can't get any better - this CD blows me away! Incredible music - partners in duets. All I can say is GET IT!

Average customer rating: high maintenance woman LOVE TOBY KEITH GREAT AS USUAL Big Dog Daddy Big Dog Daddy

Big Dog Daddy Toby Keith Manufacturer: Show Dog Nashville ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Contemporary Country | Country | Styles | Music New Traditionalist | Contemporary Country | Country | Styles | Music General | Country | Styles | Music Contemporary | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: 5th Gear Between Raising Hell and Amazing Grace Let It Go Lost Highway One of the Boys ASIN: B000NIBV0C Release Date: 2007-06-12

Tracks:

1. High Maintenance Woman
2. Love Me If You Can
3. White Rose
4. Get My Drink On
5. Wouldn't Wanna Be Ya
6. Big Dog Daddy
7. Burnin' Moonlight
8. Walk it Off
9. I Know She Hung the Moon
10. Pump Jack
11. Hit It

Amazon.com

On his first totally controlled album for his own label, Toby Keith adds another title to his résumé: producer. Throughout, the former Oklahoma wildcatter, who's taken heat for his blustery patriotism and outspoken remarks, seems to be seeking new respect, shifting the focus off of politics and grandstanding and back to his talents as a musician. While his last album, White Trash with Money, found him flirting with R&B and adding horns for a bit more bump, his latest effort finds him nearly in a singer-songwriter mood, taking more time to craft the sound of the tracks and laying down his own harmonies. He's still relying on gimmicky wordplay and cartoon puffery for his full-tilt radio numbers ("High Maintenance Woman," "Big Dog Daddy"), but he also showcases the sensitive, ballad-heavy side of his personality that hasn't been as apparent since the '90s ("Does That Blue Moon Ever Shine on You," "We Were in Love"). He achieves this with some fine cowriting--the winsome "I Know She Hung the Moon" and "Walk It Off," and the lusty "Burnin' Moonlight." He also finds two excellent covers, Fred Eaglesmith's "White Rose" (which combines nostalgia for full-service gas stations with that of a teen's coming of age) and the thoughtful Craig Wiseman/Chris Wallin ballad "Love Me If You Can." The latter, a quiet social commentary, revisits Keith's familiar theme of holding one's ground, but with a far more compassionate approach than he's tried before. Consider it a meditation from a brash king of the hill who hasn't forgotten how to be humble. --Alanna Nash

Customer Reviews:

high maintenance woman.......2007-07-19

My stepson said he really enjoys this CD, especially the song about a high maintenance woman.

Gunner July,2007

LOVE TOBY KEITH.......2007-07-17

I love this cd,of course I love Toby Keith and his music.Great songs on this CD.

GREAT AS USUAL.......2007-07-15

As always Toby does not diappoint, this one great CD. All the songs are great.

Big Dog Daddy.......2007-07-13

As a longtime fan of Toby Keith I found this to be a great cd to listen too. Toby has a rich, deep voice that makes any song beautiful. I couldn't pick a favorite because I loved all of them!!

Big Dog Daddy.......2007-07-06

I was skeptical about purchasing yet another Toby Keith CD but am glad I made the purchase. Once again, Toby comes through with his distinct voice and ear catching tunes. Toby is by far one of the best song writers yet in country music. I went to see a concert at the Tweeter Center in NJ and let me tell you, I am still impressed with the show he performed. The song "High Maintenance Woman" is cute and funny. The cd was a very good buy.

Average customer rating: AWESOME Amazing debut! Definately Recommended Carrie Underwood cd Boring

Some Hearts Carrie Underwood Manufacturer: Arista ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Contemporary Country | Country | Styles | Music General | Country | Styles | Music Contemporary | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music Pop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Country | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Daughtry Enjoy The Ride Fireflies Twice the Speed of Life Me and My Gang ASIN: B000BGR18W Release Date: 2005-11-15

Tracks:

1. Wasted
2. Don't Forget To Remember Me
3. Some Hearts
4. Jesus, Take The Wheel
5. The Night Before (Life Goes On)
6. Lessons Learned
7. Before He Cheats
8. Starts With Goodbye
9. I Just Can't Live A Lie
10. We're Young And Beautiful
11. That's Where It Is
12. Whenever You Remember
13. I Ain't In Checotah Anymore
14. Inside Your Heaven

Amazon.com

Would American Idol winner Carrie Underwood have landed a major-label recording contract without winning the hugely popular television contest? Probably. The big-voiced Oklahoman has the pipes, the look, the pedigree, and, most important, the emotional resonance to sustain a professional career. As an investment in her future, her label eschewed the easy path in putting out an album to take advantage of her publicity, going for a name producer, Dann Huff (Keith Urban, Faith Hill, Lonestar), to handle half the tracks. It also solicited material from the same top songwriters (Diane Warren, Brett James, Troy Verges, Rivers Rutherford) who stock albums by Hill, Martina McBride, Trisha Yearwood, and Wynonna. "Jesus, Take the Wheel," the hit first single, shows off the best of Underwood's power vocals, while the sexy rocker "We're Young and Beautiful" pulls her out of her ballad-heavy comfort zone, and her autobiographical "I Ain't in Checotah Anymore" bolsters her authenticity. If the young performer oversings on occasion (the overwrought bonus track, "Inside Your Heaven"), and settles for too many generic themes, she still surprises in her ability to go head-to-head with country's reigning females. Will Underwood really survive to be a contender for the Martina throne? Let's just say that American Idol judges and voters picked the right contestant. If the posturing Bo Bice had won, rock stars would hardly be quaking in their boots. --Alanna Nash

More American Idol Winners

Breakaway, Kelly Clarkson

I Need an Angel, Ruben Studdard

Free Yourself, Fantasia Barrino

Customer Reviews:

AWESOME.......2007-07-16

It's a great CD. Carrie Underwood has an incredible voice. I listen to this CD everyday. It's amazing!!!! I strongly recommend that you buy this CD!!!...it's great!!!

Amazing debut!.......2007-07-11

I'm one of those people who followed Carrie on American Idol and just had to get her debut album, whether it was good or not. Although I've found that most debuts from AI stars tend to be nothing special, Some Hearts sets itself apart from the rest of the crowd.

Here's a rundown of the songs and my rating:

Wasted-4.5/5
Don't Forget to Remember Me-3.5/5
Some Hearts-4/5
Jesus, Take the Wheel-4/5
The Night Before (Life Goes On)-4/5
Lessons Learned-4.75/5
Before He Cheats-4.5/5
Starts With Goodbye-4.5/5
I Just Can't Live A Lie-4/5
We're Young And Beautiful-3.25/5
That's Where It Is-3.75/5
Whenever You Remember-3.25/5
I Ain't in Checotah Anymore-3/5
Inside Your Heaven-3.75/5

Although my ratings above don't average to be 5 stars, the entire album is worth 5 stars, if not more. There's something truly amazing about Carrie's voice. She has the ability to soothe and yet can drill an important message loud and powerfully. Carrie is known to be a country music artist but a lot of the songs on Some Hearts aren't extremely country-sounding. I'm not a fan of country music so I was pleasantly surprised that both fans of country music and fans of good music in general can find this album entertaining.

Those who only know Carrie from her singles will be content with songs like "Jesus, Take the Wheel", "Some Hearts", "Don't Forget to Remember Me", "Before He Cheats", and her American Idol single "Inside Your Heaven". Thankfully, the rest of the songs on this album are just as good (if not better) than the singles.

Although most of the songs are considered "slow" (mainly due to the violins and piano), there's plenty of guitars and drums to kick up each and every song. Lyric-wise, I can't think of any good albums other than Some Hearts that have real, relatable messages. From "Wasted"'s message about learning to get over alcohol problems, to "Before He Cheats"'s message about getting back at a cheating boyfriend, to "Lessons Learned"'s message about being positive even with the changes life throws you, it's obvious that there was a lot of heart put into this album.

The highlights of this album are "Wasted", "Lessons Learned", "Before He Cheats", "Starts With Goodbye", and "I Just Can't Live A Lie". Listen to this album while driving with your windows down with a couple of close friends. Or listen to it when you need a pick me up. It's truly a breath of fresh air.

Definately Recommended.......2007-07-09

I bought this album for my sister and pretty much only for the song Jesus Take The Wheel, which I love! I didnt think I would like the rest of it as I am not much of a country music fan, BUT I was pleasantly surprised and really enjoy this album, so I would definately recommend this to all country music fans and anyone else who just feels like something different! I even got my neice bopping away to it and that is saying something!

Carrie Underwood cd.......2007-07-05

young lady with a strong voice, great for listening if traveling. Not great if you wish a softer relaxing easy listening type of cd. It rocks if you like country, but do not like the whinning that most country singers seem to have. Carrie does not. Her voice is clear and right on key. Fast paced cd with good music. It crosses both boundaries of rock and country in a good way.

Boring.......2007-07-03

I was very disappointed with this and so was my wife! We expected much much more. We have buried this and probably won't ever play it again. A waste of money.

Average customer rating: Between Raising Hell and Amazing Grace THE BEST BIG AND RICH ALBUM YET!!!!!!!! Between Raising Hell and Amazing Grace Big Disappointment Big and Rich

Between Raising Hell and Amazing Grace Big & Rich Manufacturer: Warner Bros / Wea ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Contemporary Country | Country | Styles | Music General | Country | Styles | Music Contemporary | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music Country | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Big Dog Daddy 5th Gear One of the Boys Relentless Pure BS ASIN: B000OCXM6I Release Date: 2007-06-05

Tracks:

1. Intro
2. Lost In This Moment
3. Between Raising Hell And Amazing Grace
4. Faster Than Angels Fly
5. Eternity -- featuring John Legend
6. When The Devil Gets The Best Of Me
7. Radio Intro
8. Radio
9. You Never Stop Loving Somebody
10. High Five
11. Please Man -- featuring Wyclef Jean
12. You Shook Me All Night Long
13. Loud

Amazon.com

At the height of their 2004 "Save a Horse (Ride a Cowboy)" fame, Big & Rich's one lament was that radio didn't know what to do with them, even though they sold two million copies of their debut album, Horse of a Different Color. Their follow-up, 2005's Comin' to Your City, likewise failed to score a Top 10 single, but still went platinum. Now comes their third album, and their first single, "Lost in This Moment"--an overtly emotional ballad about getting hitched--is selling like Gatorade at a chili cook-off. Are Music City's most likeable lunatics playing it safe? Well, it sounds that way. And if that's a disappointment, given their initial rollicking (and much needed) assault on staid Nashville, there's more bad news. Big Kenny's loopy songs of peace, love, and hippified unity (especially the overblown "Eternity," featuring John Legend) now sound so familiar, replete with Pentecostal blathering ("Brothers and sisters..."), you can sing along the first time you hear them. The duo sequences the album like a vinyl disc of old, with a virtual A-side (ballads) and B-side (rockers). Not surprising, the B-side wins, even if "Radio" owes too much to the self-aggrandizing hullabaloo of Comin' to Your City and Wyclef Jean drops by to rap a few country clichés. It takes an awfully long time for this album to be fun, but it eventually does, with an AC/DC cover ("You Shook Me All Night Long") and a Brooks & Dunnish turbo-tonker ("Loud"). Fans of Big & Rich already understand that they take their spirituality as seriously as their sinning. But next time, here's hoping they spend more time in Saturday night, and less in Sunday morning. --Alanna Nash

Album Description

On their third album, Big & Rich bust down the doors of country music with new sounds, new energy and new audiences. The title Between Raising Hell and Amazing Grace describes not only this collection but also Big & Rich themselves. Thank heaven for Big & Rich!

Customer Reviews:

Between Raising Hell and Amazing Grace.......2007-07-19

Between Raising Hell and Amazing Grace

This is a killer CD with lots of emotion and true straight-from-the-heart songs. It shows a side of Big and Rich that was not present before.

THE BEST BIG AND RICH ALBUM YET!!!!!!!!.......2007-07-15

wow wow wow! Big & Rich are musical marvels. This album may be more tame than their last two but they still tip the scales and turn you upside down. Here's my best proffesional review on it;

Lost In This Moment:
The first single from this album showcases John Rich's pure country vocals. A very touching song that will toss Lonestar's 'Amazed' out the window on best wedding songs. Well written and well sung.

Between Raising Hell And Amazing Grace:
This is my personal favorite on this album because it's me! Big Kenny and I must have the same thoughts. The best lyric in there is "May be passing out on friday but come sunday i'll be passing the collection plate'. The perfect anthem for any hell raising christian.

Faster Than Angels Fly:
As soon as I heard the opening melody I had chills. Then I heard 'modern day romeo and juliet' and my heart stopped. A very intriguing song about a young couple living in a bad neighbourhood!

Eternity:
This has Big Kenny written all over it. It's a great chorus with gnarley lyrics lol! He paints quite the picture in your mind about what he sees in 'eternity'

When The Devil Gets The Best Of Me:
Another chilling song about temptations. It should speak to a lot of angry people. A great acoustic track.

Radio:
The most Big & Rich flavoured song on the record. Just rock out with the boys in this one. Starting with Big Kenny preaching about prejiduce then just the most rockin' grooves ever. Radio is a future hit single.

You Never Stop Loving Somebody:
This is another neat song. It's just a simple truth and Big & Rich make it so much fun to listen too.

High Five:
This is the only song I am not crazy about on the album. It reminds me alot of a song on the 'City' album called 'Blow My Mind'

Please Man:
The first time I heard this I thought it was weird. The second time I started singing, the third time I was rapping. A great cameo performance by Wyclef Jean. With his country breakdown, you start enjoying the diversity and it just gets better.

You Shook Me All Night Long:
You can't beat an original .......... NOT!(quote Borat lol). I never really cared for Ac/DC's version of the song so I didn't rush to this track but when it came on I just had to listen. And now it's the first song I play when I pop the album in. B+R you amaze me

Loud:
What can I say. It's a song that i'm sure B+R are gonna rock out to on stage. The lyrics are so Brooks & Dunn, but the guitar in it is Big & Rich!

BUY THIS ALBUM AND YOU WILL NOT REGRET IT AT ALL

Between Raising Hell and Amazing Grace.......2007-07-12

I absolutely love this CD. Every song on it. Another big hit from Big & Rich.

Big Disappointment.......2007-07-07

I was excited for the release of the latest CD from John & Kenny, even with the toned down and boring lead off single "Lost In This Moment" played on the radio.

This is Big & Rich, they can't let me down.

Well they did.

They present this CD as if it was an old vinyl LP album, with "side one" loaded with strange and short intros into rather forgetable slow tunes.

It's only till you get to "Side B" that they duo tries to redeem itself with a more familiar style and a few rockin' uptempo tracks like 'Radio', 'Loud', and a remake of the AC/DC classic 'You Shook Me All Night Long'.

If I could buy just one "side" of this latest effort, I would pay half the price and go for side two.

It's this sellout to commercialism that also ruined another favorite band of mine, Lonestar, who bore me now with every song and CD they release.

Hmmm... John Rich used to be in Lonestar. Things that make you go hmmmm.

Big and Rich.......2007-07-06

Between Raising Hell and Amazing Grace...perfect title for this CD. Lost in this Moment - if I was getting married again, would be my song...it is perfect for a wedding and if you are so much in love! Between Raising Hell and Amazing Grace is yet another great song...very catchy tunes and glad I made the purchase. The best cd by far that Big and Rich has produced.

Average customer rating: Great album I'd Give it 6 Stars if I could Still Amazing Dixie Chicks at their best Love it

Taking The Long Way Dixie Chicks Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Contemporary Country | Country | Styles | Music New Traditionalist | Contemporary Country | Country | Styles | Music General | Country | Styles | Music Contemporary | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music Pop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Alternative Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Country | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Home All the Roadrunning Not Too Late Wide Open Spaces Continuum ASIN: B000F7MG4G Release Date: 2006-05-23

Tracks:

1. The Long Way Around
2. Easy Silence
3. Not Ready To Make Nice
4. Everybody Knows
5. Bitter End
6. Lullaby
7. Lubbock Or Leave It
8. Silent House
9. Favorite Year
10. Voice Inside My Head
11. I Like It
12. Baby Hold On
13. So Hard
14. I Hope

Amazon.com

Nothing changes folks like babies and war, and since the release of their last album, 2002's Home, the Dixie Chicks have been forever altered by both. If that album showcased the trio as precocious young adults, Taking the Long Way finds them sobered and matured, and in a grown-up state of mind. Produced by the celebrated Rick Rubin (Johnny Cash, Red Hot Chili Peppers), who saw the Chicks as "a great rock act making a country album, not a country act making a rock album," their new record impresses both as beautiful sonic tapestry (peppered with myriad Beatlesque hallmarks) and forthright yet vulnerable portrait of three women shaken by the personal and political events of the past few years. As they make clear in the defiant "Not Ready to Make Nice," they still smart over the backlash from their 2003 Bushwhacking. But as they assert on the equally autobiographical "The Long Way Around," they could never "kiss all the asses that they told me to" and just follow others aimlessly--and silently--through life. This means that the Chicks are simultaneously prideful and scornful of celebrity ("Everybody Knows"), and that as new mothers they increasingly treasure the refuge they find in life with their families, out of the spotlight ("Easy Silence," "Lullaby," "Baby Hold On"). The push and pull of both passions drive this record, which also touches on the personal issues of infertility (with which sisters Martie Maguire and Emily Robison both dealt) and Alzheimer's (from which Natalie Maines's grandmother suffers). The trio crafted all 14 cuts with the help of such writers as Sheryl Crow, Gary Louris, Mike Campbell, and Keb' Mo', laying out their lives as honestly and intimately as they might in their diaries. For that reason, on first listen, Taking the Long Way seems too somber--in need of a bit of levity and more than a couple of uptempo songs (like the sexy, '60s-flavored "I Like It") to resonate for the long haul. It also seems to lack the writing quality that Darrell Scott, Patty Griffin, and Bruce Robison brought to Home. But on repeated plays, those concerns dissipate. By the last cut, the R&B/gospel offering "I Hope," the Chicks have chronicled their journey with as much spirituality as spunk, their pain deeply ingrained in their protests. --Alanna Nash

Description

With Taking The Long Way, one of the most anticipated albums in recent years, the Dixie Chicks are putting themselves out there like never before. For the first time, every one of the disc's fourteen songs are co-written by the Chicks themselves, exploring themes both deeply private and resoundingly political. Collaborating with legendary producer Rick Rubin (who has worked with everyone from Johnny Cash to the Red Hot Chili Peppers, from Run DMC to Neil Diamond), the biggest-selling female band in history has truly pushed themselves to new heights both as writers and as performers.

"Everything felt more personal this time," says Maines. "I go back to songs we've done in the past and there's just more maturity, depth, intelligence on these. They just feel more grown-up." Inspired by such classic rock artists as the Eagles, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, and the Mamas and the Papas, Taking The Long Way adds a sweeping, Southern California vibe to the Chicks' down-home intimacy. That ambition is matched with lyrics addressing everything from small-town narrow-mindedness ("Lubbock or Leave It") to the psychology of celebrity ("Everybody Knows"). "This album was about finding a balance in the different aspects of our lives," says Emily Robison, "but there's something thematic there, too--it's really about being bold."

Dixie Pics

Dixie Discs

Home	Wide Open Spaces	Fly
Top of the World Tour (Live CD)	Top of the World Tour (DVD)	An Evening with the Dixie Chicks (DVD)

Customer Reviews:

Great album.......2007-07-17

I heard of the Dixie chicks when their lead singer Natalie Maines voiced her opinion against President George Bush's Iraq policy at a concert in London. I thought they were a girl Rock band because they look more like Pop/Rock artists than a Country music group. I have listened to their previous albums but I have never bought them because I am not a Country music fan. I like 'Taking the Long way' best because their new style of music is more to my taste than their 'twang' music. Although it has a 'Country' feel it sounds like 1970's classic Rock. This mix of different genres makes their music original. They said they were influenced by the Eagles and California Rock. This type of music appeals to me. It is why I bought this album. Nothing to do with their anti-Bush comment ( with which I agree ). Some people bought their cd in support for them but I don't purchase an artist's record for political reasons. The Dixie Chicks have talent and it shows in their music. I was glad to hear that they had won 5 Grammys.
My favourite songs are 'The Long way round', 'Silent House'( they co-wrote this song with Neil Finn of Crowded House. It is also on the new Crowded House album called 'Time On Earth'), 'Voice Inside My Head', 'I like it' and 'I Hope'.

I'd Give it 6 Stars if I could.......2007-07-08

That's how much I LOVE this record! Myself like others I've read, have never purchased a Dixie Chicks record before. I have to admit I only bought it because I'm a huge Jayhawks (Gary Louris) fan, and wanted to hear his contributions. Well, even if Gary had never ever written with these women, I would give this CD my highest rating.

Best tracks are "I'm Not Ready to Make Nice". This song give me chills every time I hear it, never fails to produce that effect. "Everybody Knows" is my next favorite. I'm not going into detail on each and every one, but if you've not heard the DC before or are a long-time fan, this record is for you, trust me.

It's a record that I find fresh and exciting every time I play it, still. The Chicks are wonderful musicians, and Natalie has one of the best voices around! This was my favorite record from last year and truly deserved it's title of Best Record from the grammys.

Still Amazing.......2007-06-26

I bought this when it was first released, and I love it just as much as the day it arrived--maybe more. I often get sick of albums that seemed great in the beginning, but I don't think that could happen with this one. It is too perfect.

Dixie Chicks at their best.......2007-06-24

I find it unbelievable that the Dixie Chicks are still not played on country radio stations (on the Internet anyway). Country musics' heart and soul is telling stories; sad, happy, and everything in between. This album tells the 'story' of the Dixie Chicks in an awesome way. It brings chills to hear how real their story is. The way they have brought the emotion and challenges they faced out through their songs shows unbelievably talent and courage.

As far as still not being played goes, here in NZ we only know what we see on the news and as far as I can tell their are plenty of you Americans who have said and done a lot worse than what the Chicks ever said. I think not playing them is very one-eyed and narrow minded. You just have to look at some of country music's icons to see they have rebelled against the 'government.' Willie, Waylon, Merle, Hank Williams Snr, just to name a few.

Go the Chicks, I will always buy and play their music.

Kia ora

Love it.......2007-06-22

I loved the Chicks' first 3 albums, and though this one is very different from those, I love this one too. It has such a different context, and is not all carefree and fun like some of their other stuff, but for obvious reasons with everthing they've gone through. They really are very respectable artists and people.

Average customer rating: Sparkling melodies and lyrics on Martina's newest CD ! Martina! Great songs Brilliant CD !! Solid McBride Release

Waking Up Laughing Martina McBride Manufacturer: RCA/Sony/BMG ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Contemporary Country | Country | Styles | Music New Traditionalist | Contemporary Country | Country | Styles | Music General | Country | Styles | Music Contemporary | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music $9.99 and Under | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Country | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music $9.99 and Under | Prices | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: A Hundred Miles or More: A Collection Let It Go 5th Gear Big Dog Daddy Live at Texas Stadium ASIN: B000NOKAPI Release Date: 2007-04-03

Tracks:

1. If I Had Your Name
2. Cry Cry (Till The Sun Shines)
3. Tryin' To Find A Reason
4. For These Times
5. Anyway (Album & Digital Single Version)
6. How I Feel
7. I'll Still Be Me
8. Beautiful Again
9. Everybody Does
10. House Of A Thousand Dreams
11. Love Land

Amazon.com

Martina McBride has long been a champion of music as social consciousness, particularly for abused women ("Independence Day") and children. On Waking Up Laughing, her ninth album and the follow-up to Timeless, her platinum-selling album of country classics, she advances the theme while expanding it. While two songs explore the issue of unwed mothers (particularly the exquisite "Love Land," which closes the album), and another, "Beautiful Again," touches on child sexual abuse, her overall repertoire embraces the wholeness of family, and of standing strong together in the face of adversity and defeat. Musically, McBride has always proved to be an elegant thorn--her song selection is often inspired (and here, she co-wrote three tunes, including the skyscraping single "Anyway"), but she has tended to use her huge, ride-the-wave soprano full-tilt, without employing the subtle shadings that would make her even more emotionally resonant. On Waking Up Laughing she seems to have worked on the problem, yet in her second foray as solo producer, she still tends to gild the lily instrumentally--inflating string bridges between choruses, for example, or loading the opening country-pop track, "If I Had Your Name," with a Southern-rock guitar break, a listen-to-me fiddle showcase, a Celtic guitar intro, and a close that brings to mind George Harrison's sitar in play-it-backward mode. That said, she makes fine use of what sounds like a black female choir on the uplifting "For These Times," and wisely keeps the haunting break-up ballad "Tryin' to Find a Reason" (with Keith Urban's harmony vocals and guitar solo) lean and affecting. As McBride works to refine her pastiche of creativity, commerciality, and social awareness, she slyly takes more chances than one might think, all the while rallying old fans and making new ones. --Alanna Nash

Album Description

After 16 million in sales and 22 top 10 singles, some artists might be afraid to tinker with success and tempt fate. But not Martina McBride. Following up on her platinum-selling Timeless album, a poignant collection of country classics representing her first effort as solo producer, she's at the production helm again for her ninth studio release, Waking Up Laughing. Since her debut in 1992, McBride has maintained a consistent presence on the country charts, including six number one singles, and has also enjoyed crossover success in the pop and adult contemporary genres. Always striving for new artistic heights, McBride is breaking new ground by serving as producer, writer and artist for her latest album, which includes three songs she co-wrote with the Warren Brothers and other top songwriters.

Customer Reviews:

Sparkling melodies and lyrics on Martina's newest CD !.......2007-07-05

I first became acquainted with Martina McBride's beautifully expressive voice through listening to her sing "Valentine" on one of Jim Brickman's albums... Instantly smitten, I began buying her music and have been happily listening every since then... This newest CD has a wealth of good music... with the incredibly lyrical "Beautiful Again", "House Of A Thousand Dreams" and "Anyway"... as with any new CD, I kept waiting for the few songs that I didn't care for... but this never happens to me with Martina's insightful song selection and soaring vocals -- I find myself listening to this album for hours at a time... and know that it is indeed a golden nugget for Martina to cherish always...! Most impressive A++++++!

Martina!.......2007-06-27

I just love this CD! Martina McBride has appropriately named this CD "Waking Up Laughing". After listening to it I feel upbeat and happy. She's the best to come along in many years!

Great songs.......2007-06-27

I love Martina McBride. This cds have lots of good songs. It's a must buy for any fan of hers. She's awesome in her concert I just went to a few weeks ago...

Brilliant CD !!.......2007-06-23

There are some artists whose albums I buy without even hearing a note. Brad Paisley, Tim McGraw and especially TRACE ADKINS, TRAVIS TRITT and RANDY TRAVIS. There are very few female artists who I buy as I usually only end up liking 2-3 tracks. Martina McBride is changing that and becoming one of those artists who I automatically buy.

Here in NZ we don't have country radio stations so we don't get to hear new tracks and artists unless we do so online (which I do). In some ways this is great because we don't hear songs thrashed until all the meaning and life have been wrung out of them.

Having said all that, Waking up crying is a great CD. I played it through 4 times without skipping through any tracks. I loved every track. Although 1 or 2 were a bit "poppy" it just shows Martina's versatility. My all time favourites are I'll still be me, Love land, House of a thousand dreams and of course the track Anyway which gives me goosebumps every time I hear it.

5++ for this album which will not disappoint new and old fans

Kia ora

Solid McBride Release.......2007-06-21

Martina McBride has become one of the most dependable artists in country music, and "Waking Up Laughing" continues her streak of releasing enjoyable, entertaining records.

She ranges from sentimental love songs to heartbreak songs to survivor songs, and maintains her soulful, powerful voice on everyone of them.

"Anyway," "Tryin'To Find A Reason," "Cry Cry," and "House of a Thousand Dreams" should not disappoint too many, if any, of her fans.

Average customer rating: Awesome Great voice...but Aussome Keith!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Love this guy! This Pretty Boy Country Rock moves this Cowboy

Love, Pain & the Whole Crazy Thing Keith Urban Manufacturer: Liberty ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Contemporary Country | Country | Styles | Music General | Country | Styles | Music Contemporary | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Pop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Country | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Enjoy The Ride Be Here These Days Taking The Long Way Like Red on a Rose ASIN: B000ICM5QW Release Date: 2006-11-07

Tracks:

1. Once In A Lifetime
2. Shine
3. I Told You So
4. I Can't Stop Loving You
5. Won't Let You Down
6. Faster Car
7. Stupid Boy
8. Used To The Pain
9. Raise The Barn (featuring Ronnie Dunn)
10. God Made Woman
11. Tu Compania
12. Everybody
13. Got It Right This Time

Amazon.com

It's tempting to read these songs--many about hope in the face of potential heartbreak--as an adjunct to Keith Urban's own tabloid-fodder life, which lately reads "ex-junkie country star marries Nicole Kidman, enters rehab." But his three previous albums have similar dark undertones. That would also be an underestimation of Urban's creative powers, which are broad enough to balance assembly-line Nashville pop with emotionally fine-tuned artistry. Breezy rockers like "Faster Car," sweet hooky ballads like "Shine," and readymade big-chorus hits like "Once in a Lifetime" rub elbows with more complex numbers like "I Can't Stop Loving You"--an essay about sad courage that starts with an acoustic guitar and adds instrumental textures as it unfolds--and "Stupid Boy," a tale of loss and self-discovery. It's no coincidence that both those songs climax with Urban's own crying guitar solos. As a player, his bold, midrange-heavy tone complements his most nuanced vocal performances. Another highlight is "Raise the Barn," which Urban co-wrote and sings with Ronnie Dunn. The cheerful tune, inspired by the survivors of Hurricane Katrina, is a tribute to the durability of the human spirit--a subject Urban seems to know more than a little about. --Ted Drozdowski

More Keith Urban

Be Here	Golden Road	Keith Urban

Customer Reviews:

Awesome.......2007-06-28

I have to say, for not being a huge fan of most of what i have heard on the radio, this album has definately changed my mind about this guy. It is Great!

Great voice...but.......2007-06-27

I love Keith Urban, but this is the first album I've purchased of his. I love "Stupid Boy" along with a number of others, however some of the songs just didn't really do much for me. I was just a tad disappointed. It was a good album but not a great one.

Aussome Keith!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.......2007-06-19

Love, Pain and the Whole Crazy thing is a great album. There are love songs filled with the emotions that I can relate too. There are sad songs and there are silly songs. Its is a true compilation of the emotions that we all feel every day put to great tunes. I personally feel that Keith's poetry is beautiful. He is the whole package. The passion that he feels for life and his music come thru loud and clear. Love his look, love his voice, love his talent. Can't go wrong with this album whether you are a country music lover or rocker.......its all here. Rock on Keith and keep sharing your love, pain and crazy things :)

Love this guy!.......2007-06-08

He can do no wrong! I love most all of the songs on this CD. Can't stop listening to them!

This Pretty Boy Country Rock moves this Cowboy.......2007-06-01

Now I'm a hardscrabble, no holds barred, put up or shut up kind of dude. So, I didn't think these poignant ballads and mid-tempo rockers would agree with my aggressive and in-your-face attitude. Boy was I wrong!

By the end of this CD, I was just twirling round the room thinking about how my life would have been different, if I hadn't been too proud to take that drama class I wanted to. So yes, there is some regret. I think I could have been a powerful performer along the lines of Rob Lowe in St. Elmo's Fire or Freddy Prinze Jr. in the ABC smash hit sitcom, "Freddie."

Not sure why a film star of Prinze's magnitude would take a sitcom role, but what do I know. I'm just a rough cat from the badlands of Brentwood.

Anyway, I want to thank Mr. Urban for giving me the courage to see that my life has been a waste. It's time for me to take that drama class. Look out Mr. Lowe!

Average customer rating: Best Yet!! Really nice... Queen of sensation A song of hope BEST TRUE FOLK SONGS--the calling

The Calling Mary Chapin Carpenter Manufacturer: Zoe Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Contemporary Country | Country | Styles | Music General | Country | Styles | Music Outlaw & Progressive Country | Country | Styles | Music Contemporary | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Country Folk | Country | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: A Hundred Miles or More: A Collection West Not Too Late Waking Up Laughing Between Here And Gone ASIN: B000MNOXI0 Release Date: 2007-03-06

Tracks:

1. The Calling
2. We're All Right
3. Twilight
4. It Must Have Happened
5. On And On It Goes
6. Your Life Story
7. Houston
8. Leaving Song
9. On With The Song
10. Closer And Closer Apart
11. Here I Am
12. Why Shouldn't We
13. Bright Morning Star

Amazon.com

In recent years, Mary Chapin Carpenter--once among the most promising stars of the folkie infiltration of Nashville ("Down at the Twist and Shout," "I Feel Lucky")--abandoned all desire to dot the country music charts. Free of that ill-fitting yoke she returned to being what she really was all along: A literate acoustic singer-songwriter. In 2004, she released a tour de force, Between Here and Gone, which combined affecting social commentary on the events of 9/11 with personal meditations on her changed life as a married woman living in rural Virginia. The Calling picks up where that album left off, using the same co-producer, pianist Matt Rollings, and core musicians, including John Jennings, who helped Carpenter shape her sonic landscape some 20 years ago. If the new album goes farther in advocating a political conscience--"On with the Song" takes jabs at the jingoistic rubes who dissed the Dixie Chicks, while "Why Shouldn't We" insists we'll have worthy heroes in office again one day--it largely invokes the same quiet, warm, and conversational tone as its predecessor. On the whisper-soft "Twilight," which frames a perfect, peaceful evening with a nearly spiritual grace, a listener might easily imagine himself chatting with the artist about long-held secrets and shared experiences, the Blue Ridge Mountains looming in the background. That is part of Carpenter's gift--connecting with her audience's shadow self, using her deeply nuanced alto to fill even the simplest words with profound knowing. As a pure craftsman, however, she ranks with the giants of past generations in capturing the small, bruised hearts seemingly lost in the chaos of a catastrophic event. "Houston," one such song here, recalls Woody Guthrie's great "Deportee" in its power and the pathos of the Hurricane Katrina victims who were forced to evacuate their homes, leaving everything behind but fear and hope. "Mama's got her baby/Sleeping in a grocery cart," it begins, at once setting up a picture of wrenching desperation. Carpenter, no stranger to blue moods herself, knows how tough it is to emerge from a dark period of pained restlessness to find one's very self again. The album's soothing closer, "Bright Morning Star," like much of the record as a whole, offers a beacon of light and safe harbor for those shipwrecked on life's rocky shores. --Alanna Nash

Album Description

As a songwriter and performer, Mary Chapin Carpenter has long since transcended the traditional notions of genre and style, finding widespread acclaim for her poetic, elegantly - observed compositions. The Calling, her first release for Zoë/Rounder, is the most topical album she's made in her twenty-year career. While it unequivocally addresses issues both public and political - from the after-effects of Hurricane Katrina to religious zealotry to the trial-by-radio of the Dixie Chicks -- there is also something deeply personal about this extraordinary collection of songs. The album is a powerful, provocative meditation on the mysteries of fate and circumstance, which mingles timeless questions with contemporary issues. Introspective, defiant and deeply resonant, The Calling is a profound set from one of modern songwriting's most distinctive voices.

Featuring "It Must Have Happened," "We're All Right," and "On with the Song."

Customer Reviews:

Best Yet!!.......2007-07-10

I have been a huge Mary Chapin fan since her career began. I have to say that this Album is one of the best. She uses her voice to speak out against the fear-based prejudice that has gripped our country. Thank you Mary Chapin Carpenter!

Really nice..........2007-07-08

I recommend this cd to anyone who likes good country/folk music. Mary Chapin Carpenter's voice is really nice.

Queen of sensation.......2007-06-27

This album is so good words cannot express how this dear lady sings (she is a life saver).

A song of hope.......2007-06-27

I heard her song Why Shouldn't We on local independant radio and it knocked me over. An inclusive song of hope for the young and old, Why shouldn't we believe in things that give us hope, why shouldn't we. Her other songs are lovely also I listened to it in my car over and over again for weeks. I still love it.

BEST TRUE FOLK SONGS--the calling.......2007-06-06

I have been a MCC fan for some time. I have all her cd's. The calling has excellent music and is equal or better than Stones in the Road. These songs have political and personal messages which move one to think. The music is awesome and the tunes stick in your brain for some time. I listen to the cd when I work out and find myself humming or singing aloud. Again, Mary has created an album for our times with lyrics and music of the highest quality.

Music Album:

1. Country Classics: Songs of America
2. Cowboy Poetry
3. Damon Bramblett
4. Day in the Sun
5. Essential Selections: Texas 1947
6. Forever & Ever: The Best Of Randy Travis [Import]
7. Get Back Change
8. Ghost of Things to Come
9. Goin' Back to Texas [Original recording remastered]
10. Grounded Centered Focused

Music Album