Classic Patty

Review Score: (10/10)
Patty Loveless left MCA Records after five albums, feeling that she was getting lost in the shuffle known as Reba McEntire, Wynonna, and Trisha Yearwood. 1993's Only What I Feel - her sixth album and Epic label debut - was her most traditional sounding to date. This is appropriate, as Loveless is the most traditional of all recent female country vocalists, sort of a modern day Loretta Lynn. Unlike Lynn, Loveless doesn't write most of her own songs. But she relates to her material well enough that she more than makes it her own.

Feisty upbeat numbers had given Loveless her biggest hits at MCA ("Timber I'm Falling In Love," "I'm That Kind Of Girl," etc.) and the leadoff single "Blame It On Your Heart" is just as catchy, with "All I Need (Is Not To Need You)" and "You Will" also getting the adrenaline flowing. The slower numbers, however, are ultimately the most memorable. The reflective "What's A Broken Heart" packs a wallop of emotion, while the achingly hushed "How Can I Help You To Say Goodbye" can be related to by anyone who has ever lost someone dear to them. The latter elevated Loveless to the top of the female country pack where she remained for a few more Epic albums.

There are a couple of bland numbers found here ("Love Builds Bridges," "Mr. Man In the Moon") but most of the album is extremely well done. On a side note, a ruptured blood vessel on her vocal chords occurred during the initial recording of this album, which led to its re-recording following successful laser surgery.

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