Chely Wright - Lifted off the ground

It always makes me smile when I hear new music from mainstream country artists who are able to keep a hint of the "country" in their music.

Thus is the case with Chely Wright and her new release, Lifted Off The Ground. It's been five years since Chely has put out a new album, but it seems that she hasn't changed what got her to where she is today. With this album, you get a touch of the mainstream mixed with a touch of the country, and definitely ALL Chely - including writing all of the songs on the album, with one of them co-written by Rodney Crowell.

It's not much of a surprise to hear the country sounds when you see that the album was produced by Rodney Crowell. In fact, Rodney even makes an appearance on the second track, "heavenly days".

The album, as a whole, is a great compilation of melodies, lyrics, and production.
Take a listen to some of the standout tracks:

Heavenly Days:


Notes to the coroner:


That Train:


Damn Liar:


Shadows of a doubt:



This album should be a 'must' for your albums to get this year. It's on my Top 5 of 2010 list so far.

New music

A duo of Dixies are howling as “Hounds” (and doing it extraordinarily well). Sisters Martie & Emily of the Dixie Chicks have a new album out tomorrow (without Natalie) and call themselves the Court Yard Hounds. So far, reviews I’ve seen are mixed, however, I do enjoy their sound. I’m also pleased to see the two are getting a bit of recognition for themselves. As the Dixie Chicks, they’re usually overshadowed by Natalie most of the time.


I'm working on an album review right now and it should be up soon.



A little more music talk includes a little Q&A with Melissa, and a new album for Toni Braxton. I’ll admit that I’m only a semi-casual fan of Toni’s music, as I have enjoyed a few of her songs through the years (“breathe again”, “unbreak my heart”, and “he wasn’t man enough for me”). This new album is pretty decent. A few songs that I enjoy from this one include “yesterday”, “hands tied”, “wardrobe” and “hero”. Be sure to check it out.


Another album that’s out tomorrow, but I haven’t had a chance to listen to yet is Chely Wright’s new one, “lifted off the ground”. Can’t wait to hear that one!