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

Album Review

Suzy Bogguss - Suzy Bogguss
Platinum Entertainment

Suzy Bogguss has been ignored so much that it's just wrong. Her crystal clear voice and solid material should have been noticed more than it was. We could all sit and debate if it was due to lack of advertising support from Capitol Records or if it was just bone-headed radio programmers. I have a feeling it was a combination of the two. Suzy decided it was time to leave Capitol and try something new. Platinum Entertainment picked her up and the result is her new self-titled release. The album is definitely a strong release, yet it doesn't rival her best work. However it would be a worthy stocking stuffer for any country music fan.

The first four tracks on the album are exceptional. "Taking That Red-Eye Home" is a classic "running for your problems" country tune. The debut single "Goodnight" is a unique sounding mid-paced tune that has the ability to grab your attention. Good material. "Love Is Stronger" tackles the power of love and it's ability to push people through hard times. The duet with T. Graham Brown titled "Love Is Blind" showcases two outstanding voices, even if the chorus has a few laughable phrases. "It's A Perfect Day (For A Little Rain)" features some great writing and a funky guitar. It easily my favorite track. If you're looking for blues flavored country music the Tony Arata penned "Love Every Time" will suit you perfectly. It's one of the most traditional tracks found on the album.

The only problem with the album is that everything eventually seems to blur into the same thing. Especially towards the end of the album. It's the only thing keeping it from achieving 5 star status. The energy found on her last two releases isn't found here and it's missed.

Suzy Bogguss has put out another solid album. If you're a Bogguss fan you'll find everything on this album that made you like her in the first place. If you're just getting to know Suzy, you won't be disappointed. Maybe radio will take notice this time if the right song hits the airwaves at the right time. You'd have to be a fool to write her off.

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.