The Background:Celebrating 25 years in the music business, Wynonna's 7th solo album includes a stunning collection of multi-genre standards from musical legends that have impacted Wynonna's personal life. Wynonna explains, 'Every genre of music is represented on this record. It's all the different chapters of my life. These are the songs that represent snapshots or chapters of everyday life in the Judd family'. Produced by the Grammy Award winning Brent Maher (The Judds, Nickel Creek, Kenny Rogers) and lifelong Judd family friend Don Potter, Sing- Chapter 1 has become known as Wynonna's musical DNA.
The Review:
There is no doubting Wynonna’s vocal impeccability. Since she arrived on the scene in the early 80’s, she has always set the standard for her voice. Sing- Chapter 1 is a great showcase for a remarkable vocalist. It highlights her range from the throaty growl on Fats Domino's "I Hear You Knockin'" to the sorrow in her voice in her version of "Ain't No Sunshine.” Her gives a haunting rendition of Dusty Springfield's "Anyone Who Had a Heart" and showcases her sass and swagger on "I'm a Woman." It’s an interesting collection of songs- at once a collection of tunes that are and obvious passion to the artist but also an uneven group of songs that crisscross decades like a time machine. That being said, it’s easy to hear that there is an uninhibited sense of joy that comes across on the album's best performances like The Andrews Sisters “That’s How Rhythm Was Born.” Her record label, Curb Records, is the perfect setting for Wy. There are few labels that would allow her to bring this largely non-modern non-radio friendly group of songs out on a CD in 2009. (Curb is commended for being one of the few major labels to allow album’s like this to see the light of day.) Sing- Chapter 1 illustrates—again- that Wynonna continues to set the standard in class. And while not perfect with song selection, it’s a very enjoyable listen and a fresh change to what other artists are bringing forth to the record stores.
Sounds Like:
Ella Fitzgerald Meets Patsy Cline
Track Highlights (suggested iPod adds):
Till I Get it Right
That’s How Rhythm Was Born
Sing
The Verdict:
Four Stars Out Of Five
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