“American Idol” has churned out great artist after great artist, and the fourth season was no different after Carrie Underwood won the title. She has now released her third album, Play On, with a mixture of love ballads, inspirational songs and, of course, some for sure top hits.
While a few songs may sound instrumentally similar and more than likely will not appear on the radio, every song’s lyrics are amplified by Underwood’s dazzling voice, making the entire album that much more intense and emotional. The album as a whole will pull on heartstrings everywhere, making up for any flaw there could possibly be.
The first track, as well as first single off Play On, is a very effective attention grabber.
“Cowboy Casanova” has a fun, pop-country feel, warning girls everywhere of the “devil in disguise.” The guitar in this song is particularly strong and clear, and pairing Underwood’s glorious voice with the backup singers’ fun addition of “whoa” really adds to the song and sets it apart from other songs on the album.
Another angry breakup song to revive the tone and lyrics of “Before He Cheats” is “Undo It.” With fast-paced instrumentals and a quieter beginning that leads into the angry chorus “You stole my happy/ You made me cry/ You took the lonely and took me for a ride/ And I wanna un un un un undo it/ You had my heart now I want it back/ I started to see everything you lack/ Boy, you blew it” gives off an “I’m over you” air and is one song that is sure to be quite popular.
“Look at Me” was originally by Alan Jackson, but Underwood’s version is more emotional and has a little more soul. She varies her voice with octaves, an aspect Jackson’s version was lacking. Both versions are great songs, but Underwood’s just has a little something extra that brings the song to it’s full potential.
In traditional Underwood style, there are also a couple of inspirational songs on Play On. “Change the World” talks about how anyone can help with just 39 cents — “Don’t listen to them when they say/ You’re just a fool/ Just a fool to believe/ You can change the world/ Oh, the smallest thing can make all the difference” — showcasing her magnificent vocal range right along with encouraging people to help out.
“Play On” is another inspirational song encouraging those going through a tough time to keep at it, and Underwood’s soulful and emotional voice really helps convince listeners she is serious.
The sad yet beautiful ballads on Play On come in two different forms. One is a song about looking forward to and hoping for something better in “Temporary Home.” The other form is a love ballad in “Someday When I Stop Loving” and “What Can I Say.” In “What Can I Say,” Underwood is joined by Sons of Sylvia, three brothers who also sing country. This song is really unique, because the powerful voices of the brothers really enhance the song and play off Underwood’s unbelievable talent and beautiful voice, making the song sound genuinely sad.
While some of the Underwood’s newest songs will be hits only on a fan’s iTunes playlist, her third album will be no letdown. With beautifully crafted songs to reinforce her undeniable talent and relatable, genuine lyrics, no one will regret voting for Miss Carrie Underwood and making her one of the best and most successful “American Idols.”
4 stars out of 5.
