Search - Lorrie Morgan :: Show Me How

Lorrie's Back - Big Time!

burtmont | Indiana | 02/06/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Having read all of the impressive media reviews of Lorrie's new album, I was eagerly awaiting my initial impression upon plopping this CD in my player for that first-time spin. Let me say, wholeheartedly, that I was not disappointed! Releasing a new CD on a "not major" label when you're a veteran female in the world of country music may not be cause for much excitement in some circles; however, when your vocal talent has matured to a higher plane and you have a whopping amount of life's lessons to express in your music (to an audience hungry for some real "grit" in their country songs) well, it's cause for a real celebration! But let me say that this CD is not strictly country in its production. I feel like Lorrie has reinvented herself somewhat with this collection--giving her fans what we have come to love about her best music in the past, but adding another dimension musically and lyrically that makes you do a double take and say, "Gee...I didn't know she could do that!" I loved the title cut, "Show Me How" with its fresh, pop arrangement. Likewise, "Us Girls" is a song you'll be humming long after the last line...a real female "buddy" tune without a doubt (I can see a great video based on this one!) "Frank" is cute and playful--a tune many women can identify with. And "Bombshell" sounds like the lament of every woman over 40, a humorous comparison of effortless youthful attraction vs. the bodily trials of getting older. But the one tune that moved me the most is probably, "I Can Count On You". It's not what you think based on the title, and the simple arrangement with just Lorrie's haunting voice and piano will really tug at the emotions. This song also shows her vocal power, persuasiveness and range more than any other song I've ever heard her perform. When she hits those low notes--well, you really feel how "down" bad love can take you. No, I didn't like every tune here, but 90% of them are gems. Teaming with her one-time producer, Richard Landis, was a smart move, and it shows. To sum it up, buy this if you're a Lorrie fan. If you've never experienced her music, this is the right place to start. Laughs, heart, admirable honesty, and some good music--all in one CD!"

Objectively: Her strongest work to date

burtmont | 01/29/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I was a fan of Lorrie during her prime, but like many...I drifted away after her "Shakin' Things Up" album in 1997. It was a good record..but the subsequent works were uninspired both in song selection and performance. Lorrie's voice is so interesting..it was a shame to see her even sound bored. Furthermore..the duets with Sammy Kershaw lacked any personality..with the exception of the minor hit "He Drinks Tequila".Luckily she has redeemed herself with "Show Me How". Her baritone is completely intact and stronger than ever. Song selection is her strongest since "Greater Need" in 1996..and could be her most solid work to date, in my book only rivaling her 1992 smash "Watch Me".I hope this gets some spins because it's as good as anything that come out of Nashville by a female performer in a while. I'm a diehard fan of both Martina and Reba, and this album is better than either of their recent efforts. "Frank" deserves more airplay than it's getting - this ranks as one of Lorrie's finest moments. But if you aren't Toby Keith or Tim McGraw, you can't get on country radio. Shame..I heartily recommend this cd. If you love country music by contemporary female artists, you will not go wrong with this album."

10 stars out of 5

JW | Scottsdale, Arizona USA | 01/21/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"If you are a fan of Lorrie this CD is a must. If you are a fan of female country singers but never really listened to Lorrie before, this CD is also a must! Lorrie's performances on this CD are some of her best ever and prove she is not only at the top of her game, but that she can hold her own and then some with any of the current big selling country ladies like Martina or Shania. The great reviews of this CD from Billboard on down the line are dead on. I can't remember when I have seen so many glowingly positive reviews about one CD in such a long time. Everyone is loving it! This is a great collection of songs and Lorrie does an awesome job delivering them with heart and sometimes with a bit of humor thrown in for good measure. The entire CD is outstanding, but the first 5 songs are just about the best of Lorrie's career. "Do You Still Want To Buy Me That Drink (Frank)?" is a hoot taking up where "What Part Of No" left off with Lorrie fending off a male admirer at a bar telling him all about her life as a divorced, single mom. "Used" is a song about living life and learning to not be so critical about your mistakes and your past thinking you are "Used", because "who isn't?". It's amazingly touching without being the least bit overdramatic, mostly because of Lorrie's amazing delivery of the lyrics. And on "Bombshell" Lorrie delivers a funny, but yet still poignant performance, about getting older, "...bathing suit season is creepin' up like an assasin. Can't help but wonder how I'm gonna fit my...Aaask me not what I'm gonna do, It appears to be all going down hill. And that's hard on a bombshell." This CD is outstanding. Buy it and enjoy!"