SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: SHERYL CROW – BE MYSELF

Sheryl Crow
Be Myself
Warner Music

Sheryl Crow is back and better than ever. Be Myself was released on April 21st and is the songstresses’ ninth studio album.

Jeff Trott, producer, musician, and songwriter, worked on the album with Crow. In the past, Trott and Crow worked together often, and Trott co-wrote hits like “If It Makes You Happy” and “My Favorite Mistake.”

Fans of Crow’s distinct country vibe will love the dominant sound on the album. But there is also a maturity to the album, a sense that while the songs remind listeners of older Crow classics, Crow has pushed herself on this album to create something artistic and memorable. Be Myself is very much an album created in response to the world around the creator.

The majority of the songs seem to address the usual themes that Crow often sings about: love, loss, connection, etc.. These themes are in the tracks “Halfway There” and “Be Myself.” Even the quirky and upbeat “Roller Skate” approaches the need for connection. Those who appreciated Crow’s earlier hits will find similar appeal in the majority of the album.

But then there is the song “Love Will Save The Day” with its dramatic beats and melodies that linger on the edge of a jazz-inspired track. The lyrics are hopeful, a sense that in a troubled world everything may just be alright if we loved a little more. It is this track that gives the sense that Crow has matured as a songwriter, and as an artist, and is not afraid to tackle a bigger theme that can appeal to a wide audience.

Yet, true to Crow’s style, the album ends with the dance ready track “Woo Woo.” This fun number is sure to have crowds up and dancing, and singing along loudly with its catchy chorus and sway-worthy beats. It is definitely a great summer time track.

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