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Detours (by Sheryl Crow, Pop)

common sense media says

Self-indulgent message songs about war, the Earth.

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What parents need to know

Parents need to know that Sheryl Crow isn't shy about expressing her anti-war political views. "God Bless this Mess" references the events of 9/11 and the Iraq War, and "Gasoline" raises environmental concerns. In the explicit-language department, the words "bitch" and "bastard" are both used once or twice.

Positive messages: Subtle message of stepping up in spite of difficulty and standing up for your beliefs: "I won't back down/I won't turn around...doesn't matter what comes crashing down/I'm still gonna stand my solid ground."
Violence: An anti-violence message, if anything. References to 9/11 and the war in Iraq ("Heard about the day/that two skyscrapers came down/firemen, policemen/and people came from all around/The smoke covered the city/and the body count arise/The president spoke words of comfort/with tears in his eyes/then he led us as a nation/into a war all based on lies").
Sex: Nothing explicit -- more about the complexities of relationships.
Language: "Bitch" and "bastard" are used a couple of times.
Consumerism: Not applicable.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: One song ("Drunk With the Thought of You") equates being in love with being drunk.
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More on Detours

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about rock stars making political commentary. What do you think Sheryl Crow is trying to say with her lyrics? Do you agree with her take on the Iraq War ("a war all based on lies")? Also, "Make It Go Away (Radiation Song)" seems to have been inspired by Crow's experience with breast cancer. Do you think this song will resonate with others who have had health challenges?

What's the story?

What's the story?
Though some of the songs are wonderful -- evocative, subtle, and irresistibly rhythmic -- others veer dangerously close to self-indulgent preaching. "Make It Go Away (Radiation Song)," about the artist's experience with breast cancer, is an admirable thematic attempt, but a musical low point. "Peace Be Upon Us" works better due to complex, hypnotic percussion tracks, not the repetitive, simplistic lyrics.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 

Music themes & details

Music Details
Released on: February 5, 2008
Label: A&M Records
Genre: Pop
This review was written by Kathi Kamen Goldmark
 
 

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Most useful reviews by all members

williela
adult
 
Play, listen, enjoy.
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helped me decide (1) | had useful details (1) | read my mind (1)
Pony21
teen, 14 years old
11
 
Catchy political songs
Some house hold may not agree with lyrics. A obscure mentions of sex, drugs, and drinking. One swear word (f**k) that I can think of.
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helped me decide | had useful details | read my mind

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