One listen to Randy's soulful singing is enough to convince you that you are listening to a star. His deeply felt lyrics are proof, that Randy Houser has not only lived the life of a true "Paycheck Man", but is major song... more »writing talent. His open-hearted, charismatic personality shines through in his debut album. Whether getting his "Boots On" to party Country style or plunging into sadness, Randy Houser has what all great country artists have- believability. Thanks to his riveting vocal prowess, Randy is receiving great responses from both fans and radio programmers with his first single, the strikingly emotional ballad "Anything Goes". As illustrated in his breakthrough single, Randy Houser is a breathtaking vocalist with fire and conviction at his core. Both the songs he has written and the songs he has chosen from other talented Nashville writers for this album are superb showcases for the vocal side of his talent. In addition to "Anything Goes," they include the sensual "Strange" and the ultra-cool, groove-saturated "How Many Times," the latter featuring harmony vocals by superstar Vince Gill.« less
One listen to Randy's soulful singing is enough to convince you that you are listening to a star. His deeply felt lyrics are proof, that Randy Houser has not only lived the life of a true "Paycheck Man", but is major songwriting talent. His open-hearted, charismatic personality shines through in his debut album. Whether getting his "Boots On" to party Country style or plunging into sadness, Randy Houser has what all great country artists have- believability. Thanks to his riveting vocal prowess, Randy is receiving great responses from both fans and radio programmers with his first single, the strikingly emotional ballad "Anything Goes". As illustrated in his breakthrough single, Randy Houser is a breathtaking vocalist with fire and conviction at his core. Both the songs he has written and the songs he has chosen from other talented Nashville writers for this album are superb showcases for the vocal side of his talent. In addition to "Anything Goes," they include the sensual "Strange" and the ultra-cool, groove-saturated "How Many Times," the latter featuring harmony vocals by superstar Vince Gill.
"I remember watching David Letterman and catching the opening to "Anything Goes," and if my eyes were closed I would've sworn it was Ronnie Dunn! Houser can definietly sing and for the most part that gift is on display. The downer is that the material depends upon it. Houser has crafted a solid album to showcase his voice but he ends up squeezing in the arrangements around it and nothing on it sounds organic. And from seeing him on Letterman and catching him alive, it's a shame.
What does work here are the ballads. The piano laced "Something Real" is a show stopper, almost reaching its heights is, "I'll Sleep," with Houser's voice reaching and achieving some great high notes.
I don't want to dismiss the fast tracks, at times they are formulaic, but I have a soft spot for, "My Kind of Country," but I wanted more, I think I'm just being greedy. It's a great debut disc and is more than worth picking up. It's nice to hear a man in country music who's young and has such a command of his vocal ability. Houser has an extreme range and I hope he gets more exposure."
Amazing CD That Bypasses The Nashville Cookie Cutter
Brian B. Stephens | Sugar Hill, GA United States | 12/22/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I've known this guy and have played gigs with him back in MS since the 90's. He is amazing, the real deal. And this CD is a very good representation of the kind of talent he has, both as a singer and a songwriter. Great songs, great singing, great production.
Do I think that the mainstream will get this album and REALLY latch on to it? Not really. It's not the standard pop/country fodder of the day so it probably won't, on the whole, appeal to the lowest common denominator. Do I think that people who appreciate great talent and great songs (and ignore pop culture accoutrement) will love this CD? Absolutely."
Randy Houser -- Anything Goes
Laura Pandanell | TEXAS | 08/01/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This is an excellent song. Love it. Hope he puts out a complete music cd soon....."
Great music, great price!
Jil Watson | Detroit, TX USA | 12/19/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I'm not a big country fan, but I really enjoyed this CD. Awhile back, iTunes had the single "Anything Goes" for free, and I really liked it. I thought about buying the whole CD back then, but I'm glad I waited since it only costs $1.99 today. "Back To God" is really good, and "Lie" made me laugh out loud. It is a very enjoyable CD. Thanks for the great deal, amazon!"