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CD Review: Lee Ann Womack I Hope You Dance

Dateline: 07/24/00

Lee Ann Womack - I Hope You Dance



I Hope You Dance Cover

This is the first CD I've bought from Lee Ann, so I can't compare the music to her previous releases. I do think that the combination of songs she has here is a real winner, and think that this will continue to sell well, as word of mouth spreads on the quality of the album. Also, having the title cut stay at #1 for four weeks is no easy feat. (This is as of July 24th.)

Below you can see my feelings on each of the cuts on this cd.

The Healing Kind - I've always thought Lee Ann sounded a lot like Dolly Parton, until I heard this song. She definitely has some of the same vocal afflections as Alison Krauss. She also has a very expressive voice, and in this song, you can hear the pain in her voice. Great ballad, and worthy contender for upcoming single. Adding background vocals here is Ricky Skaggs.

I Hope You Dance The buzz around town is that this song is a career song for Lee Ann, and might possibly be a "Song of the Year" contender at this Fall's CMA Awards. At the time of this review, the nominees weren't announced, but I would not be suprised if it was one of the nominees for "Song." The song is touching, and has such a great message. Plus, having the Sons of the Desert on the record really adds a different sound to the song. It wouldn't be the same without them.

After I Fall - This song questions, "After I fall where do I stand, after I've loved you all I can. Will I still stand tall after I fall?"

Stronger Than I Am - This song was written by Bobbie Cryner, and it really tears you apart. The woman in the song is separated or divorced from her husband/boyfriend, and she's having a hard time of it. She says that the little girl is stronger than she is at accepting things.

I Know The Way The River Runs - Anyone that's ever broken up with someone (and isn't that everyone?) can relate to this song about how you feel after the relationship is over.

Why They Call It Falling - This is a fun song that talks about the metaphor 'falling' in love doesn't really fit because "It's like floating, it's like flying through the air."

Ashes By Now - Really like this one. It's a cover of a song Rodney Crowell recorded (as well as wrote) back in the 70's. Hope she'll release this as a single.

Thinkin' With My Heart Again - Love this ballad. This is another one that I hope Lee Ann will release. This song talks about meeting up with a former love, and reliving all the happy memories in your mind.

I Feel Like I'm Forgetting Something - Lest you think Lee Ann is a ballad singer, she hits you with this great uptempo song, which she also co-wrote with her ex-husband Jason Sellers and Wynn Varble. Jason also sings background vocals on this.

Lonely Too - This is a real pretty ballad written by Bruce Robison. "The water is rising, the water is wide, and you're always standing on the other side."

Does My Ring Burn Your Finger - This is another one of those "in your face" songs. "Did my love weigh you down, was a promise too much to keep forever?"

Lord I Hope This Day Is Good - Lee Ann does this classic song previously done by Don Williams well. It's different to hear it sung by a female, but she makes it her own.

Lee Ann Womack Audio Clips

I'd rate this CD 4 3/4 out of 5. This album blends traditional stylings with a contemporary feel. I'd definitely recommend it.








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