Customer Reviews

Innocent Years

5 star:		(19)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

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.

"The Innocent Years" is the best new country CD I've heard in years. Maybe even one of the best any style! What we have here is a mature and passionate performance by a lady whose voice has long been underrated and lost in the shuffle of the new "young and pretty" singers like Faith Hill, Shania Twain, Leann Rimes, etc. This album's songs are very well written and impeccably produced and performed. She'll have you tapping your foot and swaying to such delightful tunes as "The Trouble with Angels" and the hilariously clever "BFD." She'll then bring you down to some wonderful introspective moments on such tunes as "I Have Always Loved You," "That's the Deal" and "The Innocent Years". Truly, a remarkable performance by Kathy Mattea---her voice has matured with a stunning result. This is a must have CD!

While I have never been a country music fan, I am definitely a Kathy Mattea fan. She has an exceptionally strong voice and the lyrics aren't the run of the mill pap that I normally associate with country music (there are no songs about killin' Earl). Songs like "Why Can't We" really shine. This CD, like the last few that she has released, is fantastic. I place her in the same category as Matraca Berg; a wonderful voice that deserves a much wider audience. Please tour Minnesota!

Kathy's music and voice have done nothing but improved over time. The effort that was put into not only the song selection but arrangements, puts this album into a "must have" catagory. Kathy's voice is richer then ever and what part of your heart the words don't touch, her vocals will. "Out of the Blue" and "I Have Always Loved You" are songs that if you have someone special to thank, they are perfect for them. "That's The Deal" is surely the most heart touching song since "Where Have You Been." Kathy not only sings about keeping a promise but of walking away with a deep impression from that promise. There isn't a throw away song on the whole album.

This album is magnificent. Every song is a winner--I particularly liked "Calling my Name", but the more I listen to "That's the Deal" the better I like that one, too! Kathy Mattea's voice is so rich and expressive, listening to this CD will bring tears to your eyes, and beautiful memories back in your heart. The Innocent Years is a CD you will enjoy, both in music and lyrics.

In someone of lesser talent than Kathy Mattea I might think her continuing turn to smoother pop sounds was at the behest of her record label. But given the quality of her songs, and those she's picked from other writer's pens, and the emotional depth of her singing, I have to believe the continuing distance from anything twangy is her own choice.

Which isn't to suggest that this is completely devoid of country instrumentation - there are hints of her bluegrass background here and there, and the "bonus track" (so labelled because it's so out of character with the rest of the LP), one of her concert staples, is country to the core.

The bulk of the LP, however, rests more on smoother pop sounds. That's not a slight, as it's high-quality pop, just an observation of where Mattea is going with her music. The subject matter is highly introspective, sung by a woman with some maturity and perspective -- highly refreshing amongst the raft of younger country stars.

Kathy Mattea fans will have no trouble following along to her expanded horizon, and pop fans who've eschewed Mattea's country material in the past may also find this to their liking.

"The Innocent Years," the much anticipated, eagerly awaited, NEW ALBUM, from one of Nashville's finest. Kathy's music defies classification, and she is easily one of the most eminent interpreters of a song, with her expressive, sumptuous voice VERY prominent on this album. Ms. Mattea has long been making mature, reflective music, and this album is NO exception. A remarkable collection of songs, that encompasses the joys and sorrows that life has to offer. Running you thru all the emotions with comforting vocals and amazing craftsmanship. (Backed by some of the best musicians around.) Her most personal album to date, with two self penned songs in the midst. Like an old friend, this album will live in your heart and mind LONG after you've heard it. This is a must have for anyone that appreciates GREAT music.

This is a wonderful introspective work. Her voice is still excellent. The choice of songs deals with very mature emotions and realizations. A welcome change from the teeny-bopper country music that seems to be everywhere today.

Kathy has made another incredibly classy record. Her songs tell such vivid stories of real people and feelings we all can relate to. This album shows what a great artist Kathy is and how perfectly she can deliver meaningful and timeless songs. It's a must have CD for people who love good music! Check out Callin' My Name - my favorite new song.

This CD is amazingly stong. Kathy's voice seems to just get better. She has such a wonderfuly expressive clear voice. And the songs are all gems.....two which she co-wrote. Do yourself a HUGE favor and buy this CD....you will se so happy you did.