Carnival Ride, whose name is derived from lyrics in the album's final song, consists of a little bit of everything that is contemporary country. There's the opening track, "Flat On The Floor." It's a high-energy declaration of independence that showcases the powerful voice that impressed even Simon Cowell. It sounds like something one would expect from Shania Twain. Then there's the essential inspirational ballad. Here it's in the form of "So Small," a track with the similar sweeping sound of her first hit single, "Jesus Take The Wheel." She sings, "And when you figure out love is all that matters after all / It sure makes everything else / Seem so small." There's also a tell-tale song of young love, "All-American Girl." It's an upbeat account that sounds a lot like her own proclaimed idol, Martina McBride. Then there's the gritty, bad-girl anthem, "Last Name," in which she channels Gretchen Wilson.
One of the album's strongest contenders is "Just A Dream." Here, she takes on heavier material, singing a heartbreaking, Faith Hill-esque ballad of a young soldier's widow in denial. With excellent control of her impressive range, she belts out, "Why'd you have to go / I was counting on forever / Now I'll never know / This can't be happening to me / This is just a dream."
Though these comparisons demonstrate that her sound is not necessarily original, Carnival Ride is a strong album nonetheless. With such a powerful voice, it's her delivery that compensates for the lack of originality. The small-town Oklahoma girl who first captured voters' attention on the Idol stage has lost none of her charm as she remains faithful to her roots. Best of all, she has lost none of the relatable charm that she is known for, cheering "Here's to you long shots, you dark horse runners / Hairbrush singers and dashboard drummers / Here's to you wild magnolias just waiting to bloom / There's a little bit of all that inside of me and you / Thank God even crazy dreams come true." Carnival Ride reminds us why America chose Carrie Underwood as their Idol to begin with. B
Spring Break
