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

Album Review

Chalee Tennison
Parading In The Rain
Dreamworks Records

Chalee Tennison has one of the most distinct voices in country music and put out two solid records on Asylum Records that won her a fan base but little commercial success. When she found herself without a record deal it was unsure what would become of Tennnison. Now three years after the release of her last Asylum album Chalee is on a new record label, has a new producer, and a brand new record. The good news is that Chalee is making the most out of this second chance with a record which both is trademark Chalee Tennison but also a little more radio friendly than her first two albums.

Working with James Stroud in production has resulted in a larger sound for Chalee. There is simply a bigger wall of sound behind her on this record and it makes the songs jump out at you more. Yet, it’s done tastefully enough that Chalee’s voice is still the center piece of the album and not stuffed on the back burner like with so many other mainstream country releases put out in the last few years. It’s a hard balance to strike and they nailed it here.

Parading In The Rain contains a predictable array of mid-pace modern country tunes and heart break ballads. It’s a predictable collection of tunes but Chalee’s vocal performances save the album from being run of the mill. She covers the Lonestar’s “Cheater’s Road” and makes it even better than the original. She follows a broken love down to Mexico only to find the strength to let it go in “Me and Mexico”. Then she tells the tale of an abused wife who finally finds the strength to get up and leave in “I Am Pretty”. You’ll have a hard time not thinking of Reba McEntire when you listen to that song. The upbeat single “Parading In The Rain” is worth multiple listens. The Carolyn Dawn Johnson and Gary Burr penned “More To This Than That” is also a winner and my personal pick for the next single.

Parading In The Rain is a rare album that manages to be more commercial while not selling out what makes a vocalist truly unique. Chalee’s voice shines on this record and she has put together another worthwhile collection of songs. Parading In The Rain is an enjoyable listen. If you haven’t had the good fortune to hear Chalee Tennison sing before she only gets better with time and now is the time to get familiar with her 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.