A much anticipated and, so far, well received addition to her already stellar career, Fireflies lives up to its demands. A few songs have been picked out in advance; along with the title track "Fireflies," "The Lucky Ones" from the video and political statement "We've Got Nothing But Love To Prove" have all seen a warm reception across the board, but there is so much more to this CD indeed.
"Mississippi Girl," in traditional Faith Hill style, is an anthem to her roots of growing up in rural America, and an inner look at her grassroots value system, never pretentious, and always in touch with her fan base of common people. As I listened to the songs I remembered the small Texas towns I grew up in as a preacher's kid, very simple times listening to very good music. While I will listen to everything from classical to punk, and like them all in their own ways, I have a special place for country and western, especially the ladies! I love a great voice.
The sad ballad "I Ain't Gonna Take It Anymore" has that magical piano and guitar percussion/melody upfront that underlines a familiar cry from a woman scorned and tired. Paul Franklin's steel guitar sets the mood and the soft mandolin from Aubrey Haynie sells the misery so well, and still sets up hope for times to come, and so a story is told. I like to look inside the CD liner notes for quotes, and this quote from Faith is an amazingly well seen view for any artist today:
It all begins with a song. A lesson I learned 18 years ago upon arrival in Nashville. The songwriters on this album have given me the most amazing gift of all and I feel honored to bring their work to you.
Article comments
1 - rhiannon
I hate this