Patriotic Country three-quilled
Various Artists
Patriotic Country 3
(Razor & Tie)
America is under siege. That’s the message emanating from this 17-track compilation, proceeds from which will benefit the families of the National Guard and other military reservists.
Striking a heavily defensive tone for the Bible, the flag, and being politically “Uncorrect” (as Gretchen Wilson jokes), the compilers perpetuate the cynical myth that all Southerners wish the country would make a social return to pre-Brown vs. Board Of Education. It’s not the only message, however. Kenny Chesney gets as in-depth as he possibly can on “A Lot Of Things Different,” and Randy Travis’ resonant baritone slam-dunks themes of brotherhood and resolve on “Heroes And Friends.” Otherwise the compilers have assembled something mainstream country fans will adore and detractors will ridicule. LeAnn Rimes turns in a heartfelt but rote rendition of “God Bless America”; Neal McCoy failed to anticipate the clash of his lyrics and lite-rock arrangement on “Last Of A Dying Breed” (see Drive-By Truckers’ “Bob” for how to do this right). There’s a void where songs supporting families and soldiers should be (Martina McBride’s “Blessed” barely qualifies), and that doesn’t do justice to the slice of the country Patriotic celebrates.
— Steve Forstneger
