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

Album Review

Mandy Barnett - I've Got A Right To Cry
Sire Records

There is no doubt that Mandy Barnett has one of the most unforgettable, timeless voices to hit country music since the likes of Patsy Cline. Barnett even got her start playing the role of Patsy Cline in “Always Patsy Cline.” The problem is that Mandy can’t seem to let that comparison go and it is hampering her growth as an artist.

During Mandy’s short stint with Asylum Records she released a ten-track self-titled effort that was truly exceptional. It took traditional sounding country songs, put a unique twist on them and made them sound like something totally new. I played the hell out of that album. It was like looking back in time, but not quite. Now on her debut record for Sire Records, Barnett teams up with Owen Bradley (worked with Patsy Cline and other legends) and has turned out an album modeled so closely after Patsy Cline that you can’t help but notice that Barnett isn’t quite at Cline’s level.

Don’t get me wrong; I’ve Got A Right To Cry is a solid collection of classic country tunes. However I couldn’t stop thinking about the complete lack of creativity. This album is simply a “make it sound like Cline” effort.

The album opens strong with the title cut, a beautiful song that really shows off the maturity of Barnett’s vocals. She seems to know right when to nail a note and when to sit back and take it easy. The current single “The Whispering Wind (Blows On By)” shows once again that Barnett is an exceptional vocalist. Her performance takes on an airy feeling that fits the song perfectly. When she sings the opening line of the chorus, you’ll swear you’ve died and gone to heaven. “Trademark” will keep you in good humor, laughing at this playful song. Bluegrass influences are apparent on “Falling, Falling, Falling.” Mandy does it so well, it’s scary.

The rest of the album comes off a little bit boring. Perhaps it’s because Mandy doesn’t mix it up well. You’re in for a lot of slow, moody ballads. It worked all to well for Cline but Barnett is better off with a more distinct, one of a kind type song she can put her own touch on.

Mandy Barnett could be one of the artists to save country music from it’s own self-destruction. She hasn’t forgotten her roots, which is always nice to see. In fact, she is one of the best vocalists in country music. However, she needs to develop her own style before she can claim her place in the upper levels of country music greatness. When that happens, everyone watch out. She’ll be unstoppable.

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.