Terri Clark Gets Fresh on The Long Way Home
Terri Clark has finally made the record I knew she had in her all along. It's called The Long Way Home and I feel like she's finally fully embraced her songwriting. If you've been following her for the last 14 years, you've seen that talent surface occasionally (especially on the Fearless album), but never to this degree. I'm so pleased, too. I've always appreciated Clark's traditional approach and her reverence for the country music she grew up on (the Judds, Reba McEntire, Ricky Skaggs). Now that I've been playing this album for a few weeks now, I've realized just how much I've missed having her around and how she's continuing the musical thread of her heroes.
The first track is the bluesy "Gypsy Boots" but I'm drawn to "If You Want Fire" because of the killer lyrical hook and those awesome harmonies. She's smitten on "What Happens in Vegas (Follows You Home)" but there are several tracks that aren't quite so cheerful. Clark dropped out of sight for a while to take care of her mother, who was diagnosed with cancer and living in Canada, but eventually set aside two days to make The Long Way Home in Nashville. Calling in some of her favorite studio musicians, the new music feels fresh and new, not overly processed. It's a side of Terri Clark that we haven't seen as much, but one that I hope sticks around for a long time.
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Lynn T. says:
I had not one worry when I started hearing the snippets. Then I heard the buzz, this is going to be Terri’s year for sure. I am glad that this article was written. Thank you Mr. Shelburne, for giving Terri the recognition she deserves.
Cindy Lou says:
I too would like to thank you, Mr. Shelburne, for your review of “The Long Way Home.”
In a day and age when country is sounding a lot more like pop and overproduction of albums makes them all sound the same, this album really showcases how great an artist Terri Clark really is - not to mention her gifts as a songwriter, producer, and guitar slinger!
J.R. Journey says:
… you took the words right from me. This is my favorite release of the year so far. Excellent album.
Miranda says:
Keep it country!! Great CD!! Can’t wait for those American Idol winners and losers to go away
Big AJ fan says:
uh oh, if it’s that good (and I’m sure it is) and that country (thank goodness) it probably won’t get much radio play (unfortunately). we will see.
Big AJ fan says:
but let me add Gypsy Boots rocks out!
The Long Way Home – Terri Clark « The Long Way Home – Terri Clark says:
[...] Terri Clark Gets Fresh on The Long Way Home | CMT Blog Terri Clark has finally made the record I knew she had in her all along. It’s called The Long Way Home and I feel like she’s finally fully embraced her. [...]
rebelyell says:
I seen this video for Gypsy Boot. I love the song. I beleive many people are getting tired of the same ole crap. Terri I will buy your record before I do others. Welcome back. Keeep the songs real. Thanks Terri.
rebelyell says:
Play the song. Again.