Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that there is one instance of "ass-kissing" in the lyrics as well as one or two uses of "hell" and "damn." The Dixie Chicks are not afraid to discuss their politics; not all families will be comfortable with their liberal views. Non-Christian listeners may notice a subtle assumption of universal Christianity.
Families listening together can talk about "Not Ready to Make Nice," an apparent response to the reaction the Chicks got after criticizing the Bush administration a couple of years ago. Should entertainers talk about politics, or should they stick to entertaining? Do you think Natalie Maines should have apologized for her comments or not?
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Kathi Kamen Goldmark
You may remember a little uproar over the Dixie Chicks' criticism of Presidential policy a few years ago. Addressed on the new CD in the song "Not Ready to Make Nice" ("I'm not ready to make nice/I'm not ready to back down/I'm still mad as hell..."), it's clear that these women stand by their convictions while expressing them with a more adult perspective.
This new sense of maturity brought into play on beautifully crafted songs makes TAKING THE LONG WAY one of the year's best new albums. More glossy and elegant than in the past, the performances still slyly address issues both personal and public, with excellent musicianship setting off gorgeous vocals. Family life and motherhood seem to have affected the Chicks' songwriting and performances as much as the world's reaction to their politics, imparting sentimental warmth and depth without getting cloying.
In the hands of producer Rick Rubin (who's also worked with Johnny Cash and the Red Hot Chili Peppers) the Chicks can also rock on songs like "Voice Inside My Head," the bluesy "I Like It," and the gospel-tinged "I Hope."
Non-Christian listeners may notice that subtle assumption of universal Christianity so prevalent in contemporary country music. The Chicks don't hit you over the head, but it's there, in lyrics like "Temptation's strong (salvation's gone)/I'm on my way to hell's half acre/how will I ever...get to heaven now" or "Sunday morning/I heard the preacher say/Thou shalt not kill/I don't wanna hear nothing else/about killing and that it is God's will."
No judgments made, just that pure message of treating each other right, universally important for listeners of any faith.
Fans of this CD might also want to check out Neil Young and Sheryl Crow.
Rate It!
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ViolenceAnti-violence message. |
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Language"Ass-kissing" is mentioned; "hell" and "damn" used once or twice. |
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Social BehaviorPositive messages about taking care of each other in a scary world. Not all families will appreciate the Chicks' politics, though. |
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Drug/Alcohol/TobaccoOne reference to wine. |
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