Totally Country, Vol. 3by Anonymous

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October 15, 2003: Drawing from the catalogs of Warner Brothers, Sony, BMG, and Curb, volume three in this series collects seventeen modern country hits from the past couple of years. This is a great way for those who love the current Nashville sound to get a quick fix of songs that topped the charts and spent time in heavy video rotation on CMT. ¶ For the most part, these are all middle-of-the-road, crossover-styled tunes. There’s an element of twang, and the lyrics, though not plumbing the depths of human behavior of yesteryear’s country songs, retain some downhome sentiments. What really makes these songs distinct are the great voices. Whether or not you’re pleased with the centrist leanings of Faith Hill and Martina McBride, there’s no arguing that they’re both enormously talented singers. ¶ Highlights include Randy Travis’ first #1 hit in nearly a decade, the Christian-themed "Three Wooden Crosses," Blake Shelton’s steel-lined weeper, "The Baby," Tim McGraw’s power-country-pop "Unbroken," and Phil Vassar’s proud-to-be-born-in-the-USA, "American Child." The inclusion of LeAnn Rimes’ passable teen-pop tune, "Life Goes On," is a mystery. Is it considered country because Rimes once-upon-a-time recorded country music? ¶ 3-1/2 stars, if allowed fractional ratings.