Twice the Speed of Life

Editorial Review

A surprise hit in 2004 and 2005, this Atlanta-based threesome arrived on the scene at precisely the right time--when country trios (Dixie Chicks, Rascal Flatts, and to a lesser extent, Trick Pony and SheDaisy) had proved themselves in the marketplace. Like those acts, Sugarland trade on solid and sometimes intricate harmonies and a killer lead vocalist. In this case, the full-tilt Jennifer Nettles plays Natalie Maines to Kristen Hall and Kristian Bush's Emily and Martie. And while it would be lovely to hear another member of the trio out front occasionally, Nettles, a deep-dish Southerner who knows no one-syllable words ("air" is "aye-er"), is a commanding presence. Stylistically, the group mixes it up, from the folk-rock of Hall and Bush's backgrounds to the driving pop that dominates much of contemporary country radio; thematically, the songs largely revolve around restlessness, the need to escape restrictions and find one's self, and the faith that things will work out. "Baby Girl," the hit about an itinerant musician writing home for money and emotional connectedness, is but one of several surefire winners here, which include "Something More," a mid-tempo quest for a more meaningful life, and "Tennessee," in which a radio request line rescues true love. The quieter songs ("Fly Away," "Hello") are no less well written and affecting, even as the barnburning "Down in Mississippi (Up to No Good)," about housewife ennui and riverboat gambling, falls embarrassingly flat. Does this triad have staying power? Well, just as their name implies, they're a little too sweet to equal the Chicks' gravitas, but there's no denying they've got energy to burn. --Alanna Nash

Customer Reviews:

• Avg. Customer Rating: 4.5 / 5.0
• Wonderful CD
  I actually acquired the second Sugarland album first, and loved it so much I went for the third and first. I am not a particular Country fan, but I love Jennifer Nettles' voice and the sound of the band. Even my husband, who definitely isn't a Country fan, has had to admit that "They have a really good sound." His favorite is "Stand back Up". I love them all. Listen to the samples, and if they appeal to you, then you'll enjoy the album.
• I ain't settlin
  This is a great cd. As a person who hardly ever listens to country music, I'm really enjoying this. Great vocals, great music...lets dance! Can't wait for more.
• Great cd.
  This is a great cd! Every song is great!! It is too bad that Kristen Hall left but they are still GREAT!!
• Sugarland is breathing new life into country music!
  There is no doubt about it, Sugarland is breathing life into country music- and it surely needed it!! With relatable lyrics, great instrument play and the mesmarizing voice of Jennifer Nettles; Twice the Speed of Life is a hit for Sugarland.
  Like many first CDs, I wouldn't say this is their best, already having bought Enjoy the Ride I have something to compare it to. But, this CD was a great addition to my collection and one I've been enjoying listening to. Sugarland seems to be a mix between... more info

Tracks:

1. Something More
2. Baby Girl
3. Hello
4. Tennessee
5. Just Might (Make Me Believe) - Sugarland, Hall, Kristen
6. Down in Mississippi (Up to No Good)
7. Fly Away
8. Speed of Life - Sugarland, Hall, Kristen
9. Small Town Jericho
10. Time, Time, Time
11. Stand Back Up

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