Next Big Thing –
Vince Gill
Where’s this guy been the last few years? On this return CD, Gill performs a batch of fine songs, singing in an honest and unaffected voice and playing guitar leads that sting like nothing he’s done in years.
The rejuvenation in Gill is self-evident. Gill’s initial single – the title track – is a fun look at swinging country. “Young Man’s Town” could easily be a commentary on today’s Nashville. Co-writing with pop-ballad king Richard Marx provides a unique twist to this head-turning CD. With 17 songs present in more than 65 minutes of music, this is the kind of album the doctor ordered for Vince and all of country music. A
The Dreamer –
Blake Shelton
With his 2001 gold debut album and the No. 1 country hit “Austin,” Blake Shelton helped lead the back-to-country movement. R&R’s 2001 Breakthrough Artist of the Year once again sings earnestly and passionately about family and best friends, hard work and dreams on his second album, with the No. 1 hit “The Baby,” a tune about being the youngest child, leading the way. Unfortunately, the other nine cuts on The Dreamer don’t add up to an album with the same power. It’s packaged with songs that are less than crafty and lack real emotional oomph.
Songs that are halfway OK to listen to include “Asphalt Cowboy” and “My Neck of the Woods.” The title track comes and goes on you. “Georgia In A Jug” is an unusual cut that shows off a bit of cleverness. Luckily, “The Baby” is a strong enough cut to salvage a rather dull CD. B-
Steal Another Day –
Steve Wariner
He’s been cranking out hit tunes for four decades now, but this is the first time Steve Wariner is completely doing his music his way. Launching his own label, Selectone, Wariner’s home studio recording is reminiscent of his work in the ’80s with mega-producer Jimmy Bowen.
