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

Album Review

Meredith Edwards
Reach
Mercury Records

Meredith Edwards is the newest addition to the teen artist scene and she's got one hell of a voice. In fact she's even got some real winners on her debut Mercury Records release Reach.

"A Rose Is A Rose" and "The Bird Song" which have both been singles are absolutely fantastic songs. Meredith's powerful vocals make these songs soar. The upbeat "You Get To Me" is another winner. The constantly changing speed of the tune makes for an enjoyable and unique listening experience. Edwards tackles the almost Dixie Chicks sounding "Slow Learner" with ease.

The problem with Reach is the same problem that plagues so many new releases that have hit the shelves this year. The songs are all pretty similar and most of them are fairly forgettable after a few listens. Make no mistake about it not all of the ballads found here are on the same level as "A Rose Is A Rose" and not all of the upbeat tunes are as distinct or as clever as "The Bird Song". There are a lot of tunes here that sound great and are fun to listen to. The problem is they have been done before and they will be done again. That fact alone makes them grow stale after awhile.

Reach is a fun album and it's good listening. In fact I would even recommend going out and picking up a copy. Meredith Edwards has a shot at going places. Enjoy it while it's new and fresh. That won't always be the case. If Meredith can put together an album of unique songs like the few mentioned above nothing will be able to stop her. Until then enjoy Reach for what it's worth, an average country release (before I get blasted by people again an average release is not a bad thing, it just isn't something that is heads and shoulders above the rest) from a promising new talent.

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.