Epic debut on Epic label

Review Score: (10/10)
Patty steadily built her career during her time on MCA but that label was not short of talent - Reba McEntire and Trisha Yearwood were among those who were also signed to MCA at the time. With less competition at Epic records, Patty made the switch. This particular album, whose recording and subsequent release was delayed by throat surgery, showed Patty's traditional roots within a contemporary country framework.

The album is dominated by ballads but there are some up-tempo and mid-tempo songs (Blame it on your heart, How about you, All I need is not to need you, You will). It yielded three big country hits, these being Nothing but the wheel (about going on the road to drive a man out of her mind), How can I help you say goodbye (about coping with death) and Blame it on your heart (one of the up-tempo songs). All three later appeared on Classics, a greatest hits compilation that I've already reviewed.

Apart from the hits, there are other excellent songs here including Love builds the bridges pride builds the walls (about two stubborn people), You don't know how lucky you are (on the old theme of love being more important than riches) and What's a broken heart (on another old theme - coming to terms with a broken relationship).

As ever, this is a top quality album - Patty has never recorded anything else - but if you are new to her music, you might be better to buy Classics as a starter.

More Reviews:

• Classic Patty
• Solid comeback from throat surgery
• "Only"As Good As It Gets
• A Great Album On Epic Records.
• Great for dancing with the one you love.
• Great