Women of Country - The Internet's #1 Guide to Female Country Music

Album Review

Allison Moorer - Alabama Song
MCA Records

1998 ended with a surge of new artists breaking on to the scene sporting a traditional flavored sound. Allison Moorer was one of those artists and on her debut album for MCA records she has assembled a solid package of traditional country songs.

Moorer's deep expressive voice is timeless. It captures all the elements of a classic country artist yet manages to sound fresh and modern at the same time. A perfect example is the title track. An acoustic guitar and Moorer's vocals are about all you hear for most of the cut. Stunning.

With "The One That Got Away (Got Away With My Heart)," Allison moves you into some road side honky tonk. "Long Black Train," follows in the same footsteps. The single "Set You Free," is one of the albums best fast tracks.

Moorer also proves that she can sing ballads with songs like "Pardon Me," where she takes on the role of a confused woman who can't figure out when her relationship took a turn for the worst. Other stand out ballads include "I Found A Letter," and "Easier To Forget."

The album isn't flawless. "A Soft Place To Fall," is a lifeless ballad. It shocked me when it was the albums first single (found originally on the "A Horses Whisper" soundtrack). "Is Heaven Good Enough For You," doesn't have a whole lot to offer either.

Allison Moorer has put together a solid collection of country music. It's refreshing to see a new artist who still holds on to her musical roots. If you're tired of today's pop saturated country do yourself a favor and go pick up a copy of Alabama Song.

Album Review by Jeff Krasky

The WOC Rating Scale

The album stands above the rest. This is a record that every country music fan needs to have in their collection.

This album is better than the average release. A strong record with some flaws that keep it from reaching that 5 star level.

This album is an average country release. Doesn't posses qualities that make it stand out among all the other albums out there.

A weak record that lacks solid songs or good vocal performances. Sample before you buy.

This record is a bargin-bin reject that just isn't worth the time or the money. Completely misses the mark.