Chipmunks In Low Places

And it was much better than I expected. The Chipmunks are not the kind of act I would listen to very often but they make a change from conventional singers. Originally, I steered well clear of their music but they turned up as guests on (for example) Christmas albums by Alan Jackson and Jaci Velasquez so I got used to them that way. There are some good original songs together with some entertaining covers, sometimes featuring the original singer.

Guests featured on their own songs are Billy Ray Cyrus (Achy breaky heart), Aaron Tippin (There ain't nothing wrong with the radio), Tammy Wynette (Stand by your man), Alan Jackson (Don't rock the jukebox) and Waylon Jennings (Outlaws - my favorite track here). Charlie Daniels also puts in a guest appearance, but on an original song - Brothers and old boots. There are two covers of Mary Chapin Carpenter songs - Down at the Twist and Shout and I feel lucky - but Mary does not put in a guest appearance.

The other three songs are all originals without guests. Country pride is one of those name-dropping songs paying homage to country singers old and new. Gotta believe in pumpkins at first appears to be a piece of nonsense, but it has a serious message about faith and hope. I ain't no dang cartoon appears to be autobiographical.

If you have not heard the Chipmunks, I recommend that you hear some of their music before considering buying any of their music. If you enjoy their other music, your enjoyment of this album will depend on whether you like country music or not.

This album is really great. I would have never guessed I'd like a "Chipmunks" album so much. The production is first class. Sound quality and performaces are dynamite. You'll have so much fun listening to this one, you'll do it again and again. Some big country hits are included and done to perfection. It's especially hilarious to hear the girl chipmunk do Mary Chapin Carpenter's "I Feel Lucky". Alvin and the guys have outdone themselves with this one. There's also guest appearances by Country's biggest stars.

Now this is where the dialogue fits the album. Since there were a whole lot of guest appearances, the dialogue was just right, and nicely done too. However, "Stand By Your Man" was a little cheesy. Nonethless, it gets better at the end of the song. Until now, I'm still wondering how old the Chipmunks are in this album. 12? This album is very enjoyable. Very very enjoyable. Finally, Simon gets to take the spotlight, and sings solo these days (Yay, Simon!). :p