A much better album than 1998's multi-platinum Wide Open Spaces, the trio refused to rest on their commercial laurels and pushed the envelope in several directions. The first US single "Ready To Run" and the second track "If I Fall You're Going Down With Me" offer the same commercial appeal as before, but from there the Chicks up the ante. Not only does it contain more mainstream pop and traditional country sensibilities than virtually any other major label Nashville release in1999, ballads such as "Cowboy Take Me Away" and "Without You" steer clear of the slushy side of Nashville. The album also rocks into the territory of alternative country on the mischievous murder song "Goodbye Earl", a tale of revenge on an abusive husband. It might be a shock to those who like the more formulated radio-friendly country of Wide Open Spaces, but on the other hand it has got the ability to appeal to a much wider audience. --Tim Perry
