Following the success of their hugely successful debut album 'Wide Open Spaces' the Dixie Chicks second album 'Fly' is yet another phenomenal collection of songs. Personally I didn't think it were possible for them to replicate the amazing sound of the first album with tracks such as 'There's Your Trouble', 'You were mine' and the title track itself 'Wide open spaces'. However, with 'Fly' they have managed to recreate the foot tapping, catchy beats, rhythms and harmonies that make their sound so unique. As a fan of Country as a genre, and having witnessed many country acts live, I certainly have a penchant for such music, however I have yet to hear anybody who has the ability to deliver upbeat numbers that you can dance to, mixed in with soul searching tear jerking ballads, like these girls. Whether you like Country or not.
The first song on the album (featured in the movie, "Runaway Bride') is classic Dixie Chicks. 'Ready to Run' is a feisty number and a wonderful introduction to what will follow. 'If I fall…' and 'Cowboy take me away' are truly exceptional songs, not just because of the amazing vocal prowess of Natalie Maines but also because the instrumentals of Emily and Marty Robinson are so prominent and breathtaking in their delivery. Following these songs 'Fly' does not at any point in time disappoint. There is no instance when you think 'I've heard this one before', there certainly is not a track that is too 'hardcore' Country to scare off non Country music lovers. Throughout the album, they really do produce a stunning sound.
One notable mention must also go to the song 'Goodbye Earl' which at the time of release and for a few months after was questioned by mainstream Country critics and radio for its lyrical content and meaning. (It tells the story of two women who devise a plan to kill one's abusive husband and get away with it). Some think the Dixie Chicks are singing about an issue that is too serious for country music, even though they state on the cover that they "do not advocate premeditated murder." In this regard the Country music scene of the mid/southern states of America needs to get a grip! This song is meant to be humorous, anybody can hear that in the way the lyrics have been delivered by Maines, and certainly in the way the video was shot. It is another classic 'foot tapper' plain and simple.
Everything the Dixie Chicks do is 'edgy'. That is what makes them refreshing and unique. Their pitch and delivery is phenomenal, and a true testament to their abilities is the way they sound exactly the same live as they do on a recording. With 'Wide Open Spaces' they introduced themselves with a solid debut album, with 'Fly' they established themselves as a top tier Country music act. I would even say this album elevates them beyond that, to the point where, Country music lover or not, you will sing a long and tap your feet, even pull on those heart strings. Whatever the emotion, whatever the mood, the Dixie Chicks stir emotion. Isn't that after all what good music should do?
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A much better album than 1998's multi-platinumWide Open Spaces, the trio refused to rest ... more
on their commercial laurels and pushed the envelope in several directions. The first US single "Ready To Run" and the second track "If I Fall You're Going Down ...
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A much better album than 1998's multi-platinum Wide Open Spaces, the trio refused to rest ... more
on their commercial laurels and pushed the envelope in several directions. The first US single "Ready To Run" and the second track "If I Fall You're Going Down...
Postage & Packaging: Free! Availability: Usually dispatched within 24 hours...
Ready To Run If I Fall You're Going Down With Me Cowboy Take Me Away Cold Day In July ... more
Goodbye Earl Hello Mr. Heartache Don't Waste Your Heart Sin Wagon Without You Some Days You Gotta Dance Hole In My Head Heartbreak Town (untitled) Let Hi...
Postage & Packaging: £0.00 Availability: 3-5 working days
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