Carrie Underwood: another simple country gal just trying to make it big? I think not.
Even if you’re not a pop/country fan, and even if you find American Idol repulsive, you can’t deny an amazing singer like Underwood doesn’t deserve to have a No. 1 hit.
The 21-year-old country vocalist from Checotah, Okla., won the hit Fox talent show American Idol back in May of this year. She has sneaked her way into the hearts of many young girls with her debut single “Inside Your Heaven,” and understandably so.
Underwood’s voice is powerful and clear. Her high notes take her up to a level that is equal to her predecessor, the original pop/country princess Martina McBride. In fact, both of their ranges are incredibly similar, and the two produce the same empowering, strong country girl sound.
Underwood’s debut album, Some Hearts, is 14 tracks of what is to be expected from the humble country star. There are lots of songs about love won, lost and hated, one or two about just being a happy, wholesome girl, and others about the hardships of life in general. Basically, it’s what every other country star is singing about, but Underwood’s energetic voice distinguishes her from the rest.
The one song that makes you stop and press repeat is “Before He Cheats.” Not only are the lyrics fresh and saucy, but Underwood’s voice changes from that of a sweet choir child to a sultry, feverish intonation with true soul behind it.
The song is about bashing a boyfriend’s truck while he’s inside a bar cheating on the singer. “I took a Louisville Slugger to both headlights/Slashed a hole in all 4 tires/And maybe next time he’ll think before he cheats.” Her vocals almost have a smoky feel to them on this track that feels fortifying. Rather disappointedly though, the next two songs on the album, “Starts With Goodbye” and “I Just Can’t Live A Lie,” are back to the depressive sounds of, “Oh, how can I make this work, I love him so,” very much like McBride’s “How Far.”
Another track you’ll be begging the radio to play over and over is “Lessons Learned.” It’s more pop than country, and the lyrics aren’t going to win any awards, but it’s about how Underwood is grateful for the hardships that help her know how to pick herself up and move on. It makes you want to belt it out and say, “Yeah, I’ve been there too.”
What’s refreshing about Underwood is that she’s one of those artists who doesn’t tell listeners what they should be doing in her songs. It’s just about her experiences. She’s not saying, “Appreciate what you have while you have it!” She’s just sharing her life.
If you’re a Martina fan, this one’s definitely for the girls. Some Hearts is a good listen for all who enjoy the sweet country sound of simple lyrics, a little bit of feminine strength and genuine feeling.
Contact reporter Lauren Effron at effrondbk@gmail.com.
