Album Review: ‘100 Miles From Memphis’

By Kathleen Loughran

For the most part, Sheryl Crow and I seem to see “Eye to Eye” on her newest album, “100 Miles From Memphis.”

Though I’m not entirely sure why the album is called “100 Miles From Memphis” — it definitely wasn’t one of the best songs, I don’t even remember how it sounded — the album is a solid effort.

The upbeat swing of the songs provides the perfect complement to a happy-go-lucky summer afternoon. They’re the type of songs you can’t help snapping your fingers to.

It’s the ideal album to tune into when you want to unwind and relax and don’t want to listen to someone trying to pass screaming for music.

It’s refreshing to hear a voice like Crow’s, one that hasn’t been modified or altered. It sounds true and natural — and beautiful.

Then there are the lyrics of her songs. I’m a huge fan of her ability to remain G-rated in her choice of words. Color me innocent, but there’s something nice about not incorporating vulgar terms and actually relaying a strong message, like Crow does in her song “Peaceful Feeling.”

But my personal favorite song on the album is “Stop.” I love how she slows down to provide a contrast to the other more upbeat songs. And call it cheesy, but I also like how the song actually stops whenever she sings “stop” — it’s the simple things that make the difference.

However, if you’re looking for the perfect summer song, make sure to check out “Summer Day,” because it is exactly what the title says. It’s the kind of song that I would like to listen to while driving my make-believe convertible along a vacant highway next to the beach.

But the album has its downsides as well.

First off, some of the songs seem a tad too long, especially when she’s not saying too much. Cue the first song of the album, “Our Love is Fading”: It’s more than six minutes long. I’m sorry, Sheryl, but my attention span isn’t that long for one song.

Though I like the lyrics, sometimes they sounded repetitive and a tad meaningless. How many times can one person sing “nah, nah, nah, nah…” without it getting annoying?

Overall Crow’s album is one to consider purchasing, especially if you’re looking for some music that can instantly put you in a good mood.

Grade: B

Download: “Summer Day,” “Long Road Home,” “Peaceful Feeling” and “Stop”

Read more here: http://www.collegian.psu.edu/archive/2010/07/23/100_miles_from_memphis.aspx
Copyright 2024 Daily Collegian