Customer Reviews

Aces

5 star:		(6)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

There is an honest and straightforward quality to this album which sets it apart from others I own. There are no flashy arrangements or glitzy orchestrations and no over-emoted vocals. Instead we get Suzy Bogguss' beautiful warm voice over rich band accompaniment. Steel guitars, violins, and the occasional harmonica give the music its gentle country feel. Thematically this album deals with separation - leaving, being left, being alone. The lyrics are remarkably uncliched, describing emotions and emotional situations in simple unadorned language. I have owned this album for many years, and it still seems remarkably honest and true.

Of the individual songs, "Outbound Plane" hits closest to home for me, reminding me of one of the most difficult breakups I have ever been through. "Letting Go", which deals with both a mother's and a child's emotions as the latter prepares to leave for college is a remarkably accurate description not only of the conflicting emotions I felt when I first left home for college, but of the similar feelings I had leaving college for grad school, and those I feel now as I contemplate my upcoming move to start my first job.

I consider this album to be an excellent, well-crafted, poignant piece of work. There is nothing which mars it in any way, it is pleasant to listen to, and most importantly, it speaks to my heart.

Suzy Bogguss had already released two mostly overlooked records by the time ACES arrived back in 1991. As the saying goes, the third times often the charm, and that was the case for Bogguss, who finally garnered not only long overdue airplay, but commercial success as well. It was also fortunate that this project arrived at a time when the term "country music" encompassed a wide variety of styles. Bogguss was, and never has been, country in the strictest sense--her tastes run more towards a hybrid of country, pop, and folk--she's actually very similar to early Ronstadt, if you have to categorize. No matter the category, all of Bogguss' strengths finally got noticed with what was arguably her best release yet. Among the several astute song choices, special attention must be paid to 'Outbound Plane', 'Someday Soon', and 'Letting Go',all well-deserved hits.ACES remains one of Bogguss' best records, and one of the better country-pop albums to come out of the nineties.

I have had this CD for several years and I am not disappointed. When I bought it, I was a teenager and didn't have the maturity to comprehend some of the subjects Suzy sang about, but now that I am in my 20's and have lived some more, I totally feel where she is coming from. I hear a woman who is mature and really knows and feels what she is singing about. She doesn't resort to fake histrionics, but tells it like it is. For that I commend her. Even though she hasn't had a hit in a while, I'll always remember her. I think being remembered is more important than scoring all the number ones in the long run. This isn't a traditional country album, but country music isn't all about twang, cowboy hats and bars. It is also about singing real life sentiments experienced by real people. Suzy Bogguss captures that beautifully and understatedly.

Suzy Bogguss is probably one of the best kept secrets in country music. She has never really been a huge superstar like some other female artists, but her music is perhaps more real, heartfelt and honest than some other singers. She does not have a belting, shrieking voice like Martina McBride or Reba McEntire. And she is not as flashy or "pop-sounding" like Shania Twain or Faith Hill. She just sings pure, simple songs with her rich, textured voice.

This is probably her best studio album with strong cuts such as "Outbound Plane", "Someday Soon", "Letting Go" and the title track "Aces". I first bought this CD back in the early 90's when it was originally released. The tracks don't seem a bit dated all these years later.

If you are just looking for a Suzy Bogguss hits package that incorporates all of her hits, check out her "Greatest Hits". Recommended.

Suzy has an appealing voice for country music: it's mature, strong and clear. Curiously, what's missing is the slightest hint in country "twang." The country atmosphere (albeit light) of Aces is the result of delicate caresses of fiddle and lyrical theme. Speaking of lyrics, Aces has nothing to do with gambling, it's about "leavin'." I'm sure that Nancy Griffith would give a nod of approval for Suzy's rendition of `Outbound Plane.' The light country tune `Someday Soon' recalls Judy Collins of course, and Kim Carnes' should-I-stay-or-go ballad `Still Hold On' outstrips the original. In fact, Suzy does a top-notch job on all them "leavin' " ballads especially `Aces' and `Let Goodbye Hurt.' The highlight of Aces is `Letting Go.' If anyone has raised a child to a young adult, then said goodbye, this composition is quite poignant. Suzy tries her hand at songwriting, but the placid two-step `Yellow River Road' is simply generic. Aside from this cut, Aces is a pleasant album. I hope that Suzy Bogguss isn't "leavin' " us for a long time - she's a fine singer.

Technical note: This is a noiseless DDD recording. Capital is a bit stingy with the recording's length - a disappointing 36 minutes.

Suzy Boggus combines great country style with intelligent lyrics, and a unique voice and style that really make her one of the most distinctive female singers in Country. This Album is such a classic one, not dated in any way. Its commercially sound and would appeal to modern country fans, yet its also honest and sincere. All the tracks are great. The best songs being "Aces"- a great song about a trouble relationship, yet not sappy; "Outbound Plane"- a romantic upbeat tune, with an interetsing aviation theme, and the cathchy "Drive South"- a number sure to get you moving. Suzy is intelligent Country music with a crystal clear as sparkling water vocal tone that is sure to win over non-Country fans and true Country fans alike.

Aces is a great intro to Suzy, and also an excellent way to get a non-country listening friend into the genre. It's not full of the typical C&W brawl and drawl; her voice is crystal-pure and the lyrics thoughtful. "Outbound Plane" and "Music on the Wind" will get your toes tapping. The rest of the songs are quieter; "Part of Me" talks about the reminders around us of our past loves, and "Letting Go" captures the essence of young Freshmen leaving home for college. And "Let Goodbye Hurt" packs the biggest wallop. Truer words were never spoken about ending a relatioship...

This cd rocks because Suzy Boggus rocks.All the music on this cd is interesting and doesnt bore you. Especialy ACES which i think is the best song on this cd. You dont forget this voice or these songs. So if you like REAL country music or contemporary youll probalbly still like this cd.

The tracks "Let Goodbye Hurt" and "Still Hold On" must strike a chord with most listeners. "Letting Go" will haunt any parents who children have left home. Simply her best yet, the range of themes and tempo show her full talents. If you need an intro, buy this first.

It just doesn't get any better than this. Suzy Bogguss has the voice, the delivery and really knows how to choose a song. (and can write one to compete with the best of them) There are certain CD's you listen to again and again and ACES is one of them. Probably one of her best along with "Voices in the Wind". Check out her remake of "Someday Soon" to experience the fluidity of her singing. You'll find "Letting Go" released on two CD's and deservedly so. If you have never heard her before, you are in for a treat. Just be prepared to buy the rest of her CD's.