Bottom Line:Big Kenny & John Rich have done it again. This is a very well put together album that completely suits their vocal styles. Their voices blend into music that is as smooth as good whiskey. Even those who decry the whole Muzik Mafia movement can't argue with the talent. While they definitely throw in some innovative music arrangements, they also bring out the raw country lyrics with a delivery only they can pull off. It is an excellent CD and well worth checking out.
Warner Brothers recording artists Big & Rich have released their third album and it is amazing. They hit the country scene hard a few years ago with their cult hit
"Save A Horse Ride A Cowboy." With the bling bling craze and freaky circus-like atmosphere of their shows, they almost seemed more of a hip hop type duo than a country duo. The lines were solidly drawn between people who jumped on the fan bandwagon and the people who totally discounted them as all show and no talent. Three albums later there is absolutely no question as to talent, it is there in spades. While they still enjoy the flash and the unexpected at their shows, they have also proven that they are also not short on talent.
The chemistry between one-time Lonestar band member John Rich and Big Kenny is simply electric. Their voices blend so perfectly that it is sometimes hard to tell where one leaves off and the other takes over. They weave in and out of the music effortlessly, adding arrangements that suit them perfectly and are cutting edge. Things that wouldn't work for anyone else seem to work perfectly for this duo. Both are talented songwriters and write most of their own material. They also produced the album. I will admit to being on the side of the unbelieving at first, but the last couple of years have swayed me to appreciating their talents. This album has more than cemented me as a fan of their talent.
So, what can you expect to hear on this album? The short answer would be simply some great music. And that is very true. However, the more involved answer is that you will be treated to an inside look at the personalities of both John Rich and Big Kenny as they perform music they have written. Guest appearances by John Legend and Wyclef Jean only add to the unique flavor of what this duo is all about. Their current single is "Lost in this Moment," and it is a beautiful ballad from the point of view of a lucky bridegroom waiting at the alter for his bride. The title track is all about finding a good balance in living your life. I think my favorite song was "Faster Than Angels Fly." It is a story about two lovers who live in a rough neighborhood and a tragedy that so often happens in the city streets of America. The song "Radio" starts off with a fun little intro. Written by Big Kenny, John Rich & Tebey Ottoh it is uniquely geared to the duo on the road and their shows and is very upbeat. Wyclef Jean appears on "Please Man" and they throw a little rap in the country. It really isn't that bad and talks about everyone enjoying music for what it is without separating into special groups. Overall this was a great CD and is one I'll enjoy listening to frequently.
Track List:
- Intro
- Lost in this Moment
- Between Raising Hell and Amazing Grace
- Faster Than Angels Fly
- Eternity Intro
- Eternity
- When the Devil Gets the Best of Me
- Radio Intro w/John Legend
- Radio
- You Never Stop Loving Somebody
- High Five
- Please Man w/Wyclef Jean
- You Shook Me All Night Long
- Loud
Listen to the full-length version of "Lost in this Moment" by clicking the link above.
