Review
Jake McKim
Staff Writer
Refusing to break from his roots and let go of his classic crooner sound, George Strait's latest album, One Step At a Time (**1/2 out of *****), will no doubt please faithful fans' ears. But something seems to be missing from this legend's newest collection, which at times almost begs for a little Garth Brooks-type rock.
Strait sings his customary tales of pain as well as happiness in addition to songs about one-night stands, advice for young lovers and negative experiences with past loves.
He starts the album off with "I Just Want To Dance With You," which incorporates the usual soothing background instrumentation and soft vocals Strait is known for. It isn't until the fourth track that listeners will feel the emotional ride Strait's lyrics can take people on. "Remember the Alamo," a powerful, meaningful song, will undoubtedly melt the hearts of Strait-worshippers across the world. But just as soon as visions of the George everyone knows and loves have returned, they are quelled by sleep-inducing songs such as "Maria" and "You Haven't Left Me Yet."
"We Really Shouldn't Be Doing This" sounds like Strait's attempt at a bad Elvis Presley impersonation, but cuts like "Why Not Now" and "Neon Row" do seem to even out the disappointing songs.
Luckily for Strait, he consistently puts out a new album every year. Let's hope One Step At A Time is simply a temporary lapse.