As a rule, I do not choose to listen to Country music. With its sing-song melodies, reflections of Christian hegemony, and often reactionary politics, country music ranges from nauseating to downright offensive. Nevertheless, as a man both catholic in music tastes and in love with a woman that chooses Country for her listening pleasure, Country is a regular part of my world (and I am compelled to spend money on it). Sometimes, these forays result in pleasant surprises.
This morning, I chose to listen to Kathy Mattea, Roses. There's not a bad song on the album, and several songs make my list of those I will choose to hear over and over again. "Junkyard" offers provcative lyrics and compelling music. "Ashes in the Wind" and "Till I Turn to You" reveal that the Country love song--so often overdone--is not yet without the potential for music that aspires to art. "Guns of Love" may be the most original and compelling anti-war song produced in the past few years, and we certainly need more of these in all music genres.
Four stars (and I've never given five to a country album).
Originally posted by Wulebgrnot sure if you'd call them "country" per se-"newgrass" is the term, i think-but nickle creek are quite good. well, musically they are excellent. not quite my thing, but still rather good all the same...
As a rule, I do not choose to listen to Country music. With its sing-song melodies, reflections of Christian hegemony, and often reactionary politics, country music ranges from nauseating to downright offensive. Nevertheless, as a man both catholic in music tastes and in love with a woman that chooses Country for her listening pleasure, Country is a regular ...[text shortened]... ese in all music genres.
Four stars (and I've never given five to a country album).