CD Review of Brooks and Dunn: Steers and Stripes

The dynamic duo is at it again. Late last year, Brooks and Dunn released their eighth album , Steers and Stripes, which is now on its third hit single. Steers and Stripes proves to rank with the rest of their catalog, as it is as just as versatile, complete with the hardcore country rock and honky-tonk tunes they became famous for, right down to sexy ballads and even a salsafied Spanish-tinged romp.

The album kicks off in high gear with anthem "Only in America." Eerily, this song was released just before the 9-11 attacks. Its patriotic ring spawned an instant radio hit and even became highly recognizable among those who aren't typical country fans, as it was blasted at baseball and football stadiums throughout the fall. The song pretty much says that we all get a chance, everyone gets to dance, in America.

The current smash of a single, "The Long Goodbye" is a touching ballad about hanging on to love that you know may not last, thus making the relationship nothing but a long goodbye. With excellent background vocals and an amazing string arrangement, this is one amazing power ballad.

Other cool tracks include, "My Heart is Lost to You" which exudes a real Mexican feel that you and your amigos will enjoy. "Good Girls Go to Heaven" is a fun and fiery romp, more about where bad girls go. (Everywhere, incase you are wondering!) The honky-tonky "Lucky Me, Lonely You" includes two studio bloopers which makes for a fun track. The album ends in high gear as well with "See Jane Dance," a very rockin' tune reminiscent of their past hit, "Rock My World Little Country Girl."

The real gem of the album is the incredibly sexy "Ain't Nothing About You," which displays the ultimate desire for someone. "There ain't nothin' bout you, that don't do something for me," rings the chorus. This song is being used in a national Coors Light television campaign. I heard a caller on Froggy 101, a local country station, ask a few weeks ago, "Can you play that song from the Coors Light commercial with the hot girl? I don't listen to country, but I think this is the only station that plays it."

That proves once again that Brooks and Dunn can appeal to everyone...Football fans, beer drinkers, Americans...

That said, Brooks and Dunn are truly your all American music duo. Hey, Steers and Stripes forever!