Charlie Landsborough: Still Can't Say Goodbye (Ritz)
This English singer/songwriter, now stretching into his 50s, has become - courtesy of Kenny Live, a supportive record company and a receptive audience - a fixture on easy-listening radio, with his albums selling in bucketfuls in this country. But he longed to record in Nashville. Step forward Jim Rooney. The esteemed country producer, who winters in the west of Ireland, met Landsborough and was so impressed that he agreed to organise and produce, along with ace guitarist Arty McGlynn, a Nashville session. The result is this excellent production of mostly soft, warm songs wrapped in Landsborough's unhurried voice. Cynics might howl MOR, but this, despite a tendency towards the sentimental, is a class performance from all involved.
Joe Breen
The Dixie Chicks: (Monument)
Although the title of the second impressive collection from this feisty trio is presumably inspired by the final track, Let Him Fly, it could also refer to their ability to remain high above the determined attempts to bring them down to earth after the phenomenal success of their debut. While this is as near to post-pubescent perfect pop crossover music as Nashville has ever aspired, the three young women's strong country credentials provide a credible base on which to build their undoubted spirit, strong pop sensibilities and sheer sassiness. Natalie Maines, Martie Seidel and Emily Robison make a sweet sound, while the playing, even the Corrs-inspired Celtic twists, is zippy and appealing. But most of all the songs are good, and none better than Hello Mr Heartache, an unlikely piece of honkytonk theatre.
Joe Breen