Women of Country - Album Reviews

Album Review

Kathleen Edwards
Back To Me
Zoe Records

Kathleen Edwards generated substantial buzz with the release of her debut album for Zoe Records, Failer. If you’re an alt-country fan these claims weren’t far from the truth. Kathleen has a rough around the edges voice that will bring Lucinda Williams to mind and her music is equal parts rock and country. It’s a combination which has worked well for other artists and that alone is nothing distinct but when you add to it Kathleen’s unique style of dark songwriting and you’ve got something special. Very few artists tell a story like Kathleen Edwards does. When you find yourself being billed “the next big thing” after your debut record it can make the process of recording that sophomore album a real daunting task but Edwards has delivered the goods again with Back to Me putting to rest any doubts that she was a one album wonder.

On Back to Me Edwards pushes her music further into Sheryl Crow territory, turning up the volume quite a bit on many of the albums finer tracks. This move will surely alienate her more to fans of traditional country music but it brings her voice and her music to life in a way which was lacking somewhat in Failer. The only flaw that album has was a general sameness of sound throughout. That problem has been resolved here.

The album opens with the rocking “In State” which could very well be the second half of the story told in “Six O’Clock News” on her debut record. The song shows off Edwards trademark attitude and sets the tone for the rest of the album. The title track will have you singing along as Kathleen taunts a former lover about all the things she could do to bring him back. “Independent Thief”, “Old Times Sake”, and “What Are You Waiting For?” are all great examples of Kathleen’s newer, louder, in-your-face version of her music. Any one of the songs would make a great choice for the follow-up single. The laid back “Pink Emerson Radio” shows the softer, slower side of Edwards music and it’s also a winner.

Kathleen Edwards tells unique, dark stories in a songwriting style that country music could use more of. There is no holding back found here, just plain-spoken tunes about people a little down on their luck and fighting their way through it. Back to Me shows promise for a future of great music from Ms. Edwards. It’s a solid collection of rock infused country songs from one of alt-country's most distinct and promising artists. This record bound to appeal to a wide range of music fans. Take this one for spin, you won’t regret it.

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.