Carrie Underwood Album: “Play On”

I am a huge Carrie Underwood fan and was filled wih high anticipation for the release of her 3rd cd PLAY ON. As with any of my favorite performers I always listen the first time with a critical ear and upon first play I was not sure what I thought. I've now played it at least 5 more times and have certainly developed some feelings about this release. First, I must say that I think it is still shocking just what a true broad range Carrie has both with musicality and emotional delivery when tackling a song. And when a listener finds themselves listening to a new release real close with a critical ear that means you know you are listening to major talent and have expectations.

I agree that CARNIVAL RIDE was an advancement over the crital debut SOME HEARTS but I felt in some ways it did follow the same formula. On this, Carrie's 3rd venture we really see her taking creative chances and stepping out over that small country line. I always wonder who decides what is country, what is country pop and when is it a crossover. Country pop and crossover are often used as negative terms and to me any true artist needs to take chances as they spread their message and define their identity thru music. For me, Carrie Underwood possesses a natural, raw voice that delivers openly and honestly whether soaring with the high notes of a belter or caressing a gentle note of a ballad. Whatever she sings she brings her emotional interpretation and that honesty rings true. To me this is what country music is. Songs that tell stories and speak of strong feelings. Yes, some songs may lean more towards pop but you may be able to take the girl out of country but you can't take the country out of the girl.

Highlights here are the country pop COWBOY CASANOVA, SONGS LIKE THIS and UNDO on which her vocals are remarkable. Her tender vulnerable takes on SOMEDAY WHEN I STOP LOVING YOU, TEMPORARY HOME and LOOK AT ME are truly inspiring. WHAT CAN I SAY is a duet with Sons of Sylvia and interestingly I find it sounds country when Carrie sings but then it seems to change to rock when the group joins in. I love the song but they are no match for Carrie. I find the closing number PLAY ON to also be strong.

Bottom line, Carrie Underwood is a truly gifted vocalist with an amazing range. Whether belting or ballading her voice turns any song into a magical journey. Her voice is not put through machines to sound stronger or to use for dance tracks. What you hear is Carrie, pure and true. This is my favorite cd by Carrie and I give her the highest kudos for venturing out and taking chances on this cd. She is a true artist and I look forward to the rest of her career. This cd is a must buy and if you are wondering whether to buy it or not all I can say is THAT VOICE !! That is reason enough. Quality music from a quality artist.

Carrie's new album is very solid from top to bottom, and it contains quite a wide range of music. From pop-country crossover hits like "Cowboy Casanova" and "Undo It" -- to classic country ballads like "Look At Me", and "Someday When I Stop Loving You". Carrie's vocals on the ballads are nothing short of breathtaking, and she also co-wrote over half the songs on this album -- more than she has ever written before. There seems to be more slow ballads on this CD than her previous releases, but they are very strong and enjoyable if you're a Carrie Underwood fan!

"What Can I Say" is a super powerful future single, with a very strong vocal performance. "Mama's Song" has gorgeous vocals, and very sweet lyrics. "This Time" and "Quitter" are fun, relaxed, and nice simple songs. "Change" is a catchy song, with lyrics that make you think about how we live, and what we give. The title track - "Play On" - is very radio friendly, super catchy, and will likely be another huge hit.

To me, "Temporary Home" is the highlight of the CD...and it's one of my favorite songs that Carrie has ever recorded. This is simply an amazing gem -- lyrically, vocally, and acoustically. Carrie co-wrote the song -- and she says that the idea for the whole song just came to her 'in a flood' one morning after reading a book called 'The Purpose Driven Life'. "Temporary Home" has a message that a lot of us can relate to, and I think it's easily the standout single on this album.

Overall, I think this is an outstanding album, and it will be very successful once again for Carrie. Another 4 or 5 #1 singles should be likely on here! I would highly recommend picking up a copy of the album for yourself -- and it would make a great Christmas gift for any Carrie fans that you know! ~9/10~

Best songs to check out:

---beautiful: ~Temporary Home~

---powerful: ~What Can I Say~

---crossover: ~Undo It~

---upbeat: ~Play On~

---ballad: ~Someday When I Stop Loving You~

Carrie Underwood, is undoubtedly one of the best vocalists of all time, and Underwood's impeccable vocals on 'Play On' attest to that statement. Her growth from American Idol to 'Play On' is remarkable in that her voice is stronger , and her ability to better convey emotion captivates the listener.

With the diverse selection of songs on Play On, there is a song on this album that everyone can enjoy. Whether you're happy, sad, or any feeling in between, there is a song that suits every mood. Hence why Play on is the one CD to have on a desert island. The rockier songs such as 'Cowboy Casanova' and 'Undo it' make you want to get up and dance; Where as the softer songs such as 'Temporary Home' and 'Look at Me' provide for a more reflective and calming listening experience. Looking for a little inspiration? Try 'Change' or the title track, 'Play On,' both of which are motivating to any listener.

From start to finish, 'Play On' is a masterpiece. You will thoroughly enjoy your purchase.

I absolutely love this amazing album Play On by Carrie! From the first song Cowboy Casanova to the last track Play On...there is something for everyone! Carrie has an amazing voice. I love the arrangements on the ballads...the uptempo songs keep you moving and she even has a wonderful duet! I can't stop listening. Once you have listened a couple of times...you will be hooked. Even the songs I wasn't sure of at first are becoming my favorites. Carrie and her team have outdone themselves. Awesome album. A must buy!

I have been a Carrie Underwood fan since American Idol Season 4. The second I heard her audition. I turned to my husband and said she will win. I voted like crazy the whole season, and with the release of Play On she is still on fire. I adored every song on her last two albums, and this one is the same way. The songs and lyric are amazing, but what really sells it for me is her phenomenal vocals. Cowboy Casanova, Undo It, and Songs Like This will have you tapping your feet; these songs are so infectious they stay in your head for hours after. Changes hits you right in the heart, and will really get you thinking. Mama's Song is a sweet ballad about a girl convincing her mother that the boy she loves is right for her. Unapologize is definitely going to be a chart topper; Carrie's beautiful vocals just blew me away on this one. Temporary Home will most likely bring you to tears, I have lost two grandparents recently, and this one hit home for me. So Beautiful! Play On, the final song on the album, make you think about life in a very motivational way. Overall this album will be one I will play over and over again. If you haven't bought it yet, or the digital version, it is well worth it. Every song is worth a listen. The standouts are: Cowboy Casanova, Mama's Song, Undo It, Temporary Home, Unapologize, and Play On!