Every November, my family gathers around our Thanksgiving table and takes turns explaining what they are thankful for. This year, I can imagine my turn sounding a little something like this: “Right now, I’m especially thankful for… the best month in country album releases this year!” Despite the stunned look on my family’s faces, I stand by my some-what shallow decision. And once you hear the three upcoming CD’s debuts, I’m sure you’ll be revising your Thanksgiving monologues as well.
Look for this in the CD aisle!
For our first course of November music bliss (arriving November 3rd), we have the delicious Carrie Underwood serving up her third album, Play On. Having mastered the art of balancing ballads of heartbreak with upbeat toe tappers, Underwood’s new release will not let fans down. Her recent single, “Cowboy Casanova” is a small glimpse of what this power-packing diva has to offer country radio with her new album. Underwood began making waves after winning American Idol in 2005, but her ten Number 1 singles and Academy of Country Music’s Entertainer of the Year award, proves she is the real deal. With Play On, we can only hope that she continues her streak as the reigning queen of country music.
Up next is a dish best compared to your aunt’s new casserole recipe that she is “testing out” on
Can she hack it in country?
your Thanksgiving table. On November 10th Michelle Branch, who has dabbled in pop as well as country, is coming out with her first solo country record, Everything Comes and Goes. During her stint in The Wreckers with friend Jessica Harp, Branch achieved a Number One country single with “Leave the Pieces” so her future seems promising. Since the duo’s demise, both members of the pop-rock/country duo have plunged head first into solo careers in country. The first single off the record, “Sooner or Later” certainly has the potential to garner Michelle new fans, while hopefully proving she can stand on her own in the country music community. Maybe her CD will become a staple for long car drives, study sessions,or party mixes, just as your aunt’s recipe could become a new family favorite.
Country gold, Josh Turner
Now for dessert. How about a helping of soul food? Just take a taste of Josh Turner’s soulful baritone with his new album, Haywire, also due out November 10th. With two of his three albums already achieving certified Platinum status, Josh is no stranger to quality work. On this new record, songs like “Why Don’t We Just Dance” indicate that Turner is getting back on the Platinum pony. Turner has proudly stated that this album is the first one that he feels truly explores his vocal range. But, from what I can tell, the entire album will be one continuous, successful high note.
No matter what you choose to feast on this month, from cooking to country, make sure you truly savor your selection. With such a fine buffet of available treats, there is no reason your ears, or taste buds, should be left unsatisfied.
Look out Country Channel! Branan Logan is here and he’s ready to take over the country community. His twangy voice and classic country lyrics team up to make his songs something worth tuning into. The potential for stardom is both tangible and undeniable for this songwriter. Branan’s tunes have garnered so much attention in Nashville that his tunes have been pitched to superstars like Brad Paisley and Rascal Flatts. His sound is totally his own, and he is sure to be noticed for his unique approach to country music.
