CD Review: Some Hearts; Carrie Underwood

Wow! Thank you American Idol. All of the fodder and foolishness has paid off in one winner: Carrie Underwood. "Jesus Take the Wheel" is the song for which Underwood is best known. It was performed on American Idol in March 2006. In a record setting run, it hit the Top 40 within its first week of release. The song also won Carrie Underwood Best Female Vocal Performance and Best Song at the Grammy's. The awards didn't stop there, as Carrie Underwood was named artist of the year in 2006.

"Don't Forget to Remember Me," a single from the platinum CD Some Hearts, is currently enjoying national playtime all over the United States. Some Hearts is Underwood's debut album and the public is eating it up like crazy. The CD includes "Jesus Take the Wheel" among other songs that show off Underwood's talent. Arista producers and Carrie Underwood deserve kudos for the song selection and composition of this album. It shows off her talents hitting highs, lows, and even demonstrating her ability to deliver gravely country.

Although Underwood offers a decidedly new country album, it wouldn't be surprising to see other songs cross-over to the Billboard pop charts just like "Jesus Take the Wheel" did. Carrie's voice is so strong, sweet, and well rounded it draws the listener into the songs. Rarely do we hear a CD that has such strong lyrics and vocals that the music falls into the background, but that is what happens on this album. Underwood's voice is rich and amazing, and she delivers each song convincingly.

"Before He Cheats" is for every girl who has ever been cheated on. This is the song that shows off her country grit, and ability to tell a convincing story in song. "Some Hearts" is an upbeat song that also has pop potential. It glorifies love and a romantic relationships. By the end of this song, the listener is convinced that they, too, will be one of the "lucky hearts."

"Inside Your Heaven" is the most convincing love song I have heard in a while. It is alive with feeling, vibrancy, and romance. This is the song you want to hear when you are in your lovers arms, or just dreaming about being there.