"Neal McCoy never really disappeared...he just hit a run of bad luck. Well, that depends on who you ask. Country Radio hasn't heard much from him, until "Billy's Got His Beer Goggles On;" yet, he's been touring almost nonstop, and he even won a fan voted CMT award (over Brad Paisley, believe it or not). And he's just released THAT'S LIFE, his best and strongest album to date.
Let's face it--his song selection skills have often left a lot to be desired. But his crooning voice made the tunes listenable. This time around, he picked some well-written songs, and even co-wrote a couple himself (a first for him, I think). Songs such as "The Last of A Dying Breed" (with an intro by General Tommy Franks) declare the last stand of farmers and hillbillys and people who deal in handshakes. "All Over Again" and "You Let Me Be The Hero" are genuinely romantic tunes, and McCoy's voice (plus the well-organized harmony vocals) will melt even the coldest heart. "Tailgate" takes a look at the REAL reason we have pick-ups ("Been a lot of tail on the tailgate/Bumpin' on the bumper"). "Head South" is a Texas swing delight; "Hillbilly Rap," a fan favorite, is still enjoyable and infectious. One of the best tracks, though, is "You're My Jamaica," a spirited duet with his mentor/long-time friend Charlie Pride.
THAT'S LIFE is definitely Neal McCoy's best to date. Full of strong material, performed by one of Nashville's best singers, this is an album that's certain to please. There's something for everyone on here, really, and Neal McCoy is just one of the best there is. Why not buy the record? You'd be doing yourself a huge favor."
Best one yet
Lesley Smith | Amarillo, TX | 09/07/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I have enjoyed each and every one of Neal's cd but this one is truly amazing! Every song brings something new and different. He does the fun loving songs like "Billy" and "Tailgate" all the way to the slow love songs like "All Over Again" and "You Let Me be the Hero" like each one was his favorite. I can't wait to get the opportunity to go see him sing them in person very soon!
Everyone should buy this CD! It is fantastic!!!"
Incredible
Candy J. Aurand | 09/05/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Once you hear "That's Life" you will want a copy for the car, one for the house, and several to give as gifts! The emotion in every song reaches out and touches your life in some way. You will find yourself laughing, crying, dancing and singing along. Neal has incorporated so much of himself into the music. The introduction to "Last of a Dying Breed" by General Tommy Franks is quite impressive and so is the fact that Neal himself co-wrote two of the songs on this CD. From the fun loving "Got Mud?" and "Tailgate" to the romantic strains of "All Over Again" you will discover that this is a CD that you will definitely want to play over and over again. "Jessie" has a surprise ending that will bring a tear to your eye, and the duet with Charley Pride is special because Neal used to travel with him and open his shows. You won't be sorry if you buy this one from the best vocalist and entertainer out there!"
That's Life, you have to hear it!
Bellas Country Music Editor | Alvin, TX | 09/19/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Missing in action for too long, Neal McCoy is back in a big way. I love this entire CD. From "Got Mud" to "Hillbilly Rap" you can hear the fun Neal had making this latest offering. It doesn't hurt that he now has his own record label and can record what he wants, not what the suits want."
What a great new CD!
HMDearborn | Fort Worth, TX | 09/06/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This CD is fantastic. It covers so many of Neal's styles of singing. Whether you want rocking country, a ballad or some lively swing music, it's all there!"