This decades Queen of Country, Carrie Underwood has another multi-platinum record on her hands. Play On that hit stores this past Tuesday, shows Miss Underwood's growth, maturity in writing and vocals, and her long awaited willingness to let people in and know more about her. The current ACM Entertainer of the Year and three time CMA and ACM Female Vocalist of the Year, doesn't look like she will be giving up the Vocalist titles anytime soon. She may have been out of the loop for a bit, but it was well worth the wait Play On is the best of Underwood's three albums. Underwood stated that "this is my most versatile album, and has a little bit of something for everyone." That sum's up Play On perfectly, There is something for everyone.
There is definitely a bigger country presence on this album compared to the two previous. Although there are distinct mixes with pop and rock, the country sound seeps through it all, and I believe Nashville living is wearing off on Underwood's vocals, you can hear more twang and she hits all the right classic country notes in many of the songs. You can clearly pick out the songs that were influenced by her newly gone public beau Mike Fisher, who she public thanks in print for his influence in the Thank You's of the cd's jacket.
I've already reviewed Cowboy Casanova, Mama's Song, Temporary Home and Undo It. So on to the rest of the ear candy where easily eight of the thirteen songs could be singles and most likely #1's at that. I could dissect each song, but i will let you all come to your own conclusions about the album and only make a few comments about each, cause this is worth discovering for yourself.
Quitter is and uptempo song letting someone know that you are not going to just quit on them like you did the others because this person is worth all the ups and downs that come with relation ships. The mandolin and steel guitar are jumping out of the speakers and give the song its hook.
Change brings Carrie back to a familiar place, with this inspirational ballad. She made people think with Jesus Take The Wheel, and So Small, now she is making people see the you can "Change" the world with every little act of kindness.
Someday When I Stop Loving You is just a perfect ballad that could have easily had Martina McBride's stamp on it.
Songs Like This The gist's of it, "If it wasn't for guys like you, there wouldn't be songs like this." The triplet banjo pattern takes the lead then there is a "Single Ladies" style J-stepping groove, the chorus brings a delightful organized ciaos. The instrumental bridge ups the ante again, and sounds like the country version of something that belongs on a Cheap Trick record. Great Tune all around!
This Time a quieter ballad that really brings on the romance when you hear it.
Look at Me a cover of Alan Jackson's (who is one of Underwood's favorite artists) original, it lives up to the challenge and possibly then some. With Vince Gill backing Carrie's masterful display of vocals, this could be a winning single, not to mention a good old fashioned country love song, or possible wedding song. Maybe she could duet with Jackson!
Unapologize is a ballad that says I'm taking back my sorry for saying I love you and telling you everything that s great about you. I'm not sorry, I'm proud.
What Can I Say which features Sons of Sylvia is a big duet ballad where both parties are wishing there goodbye would have been better even though they agree they will stay apart.
Play On the title track is yet another inspirational song, telling people to "Play On" through it all, no matter what happens, ups and downs, just "Play On".
This is most definitely a cd worth picking up and will undoubtedly be at the top of all charts this week.
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