The Innocent Years

by

Kathy Mattea

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It's too bad the mass buying public seems to be drawn toward ear candy, as in Shania, Faith etc. It is also too bad that country radio and the country music fans don't get to hear enough of Kathy Mattea. She is the genuine article. This is what country music should be, meaningful, thought provoking, sung with so much feeling. This cd is definitely her best yet. There are no throw aways on this one. Her voice just gets better and better. Standouts are That's the Deal and I Will Always Love You. These are love songs. I think even if you are not a country music fan you will thoroughly enjoy this collection of songs with intelligent lyrics and performed by one of the best singers in any genre. I have just turned 50 and these song speak to me.

I think Mattea's "Love Travels" CD is excellent - a selection of great songs - pity she couldn't repeat the trick on "Innocent Years". Instead she puts her money on a bunch of third rate no hopers out of the Nashville Hit Factory stable. The lyrics are crass, tired, sentimental cliches and the melodies are completely forgettable. Even the musicians seem uninspired. It sounds a bit like a poor imitation of Mary Chapin Carpenter (many of the same backing band members). Mattea's own composition "Innocent Years" is probably the best of a bad bunch with the gospel flavoured "Why Can't We" a close second. The rest are non-runners. I've tried to listen to it again several times but each time I have to skip to the next track. What a waste of a great voice. Don't waste your money - buy Erica Wheeler, Cheryl Wheeler, Gretchen Peters, Carrie Newcomer ...........