July 16, 2008
By David Pierce, Editor
“Goddess” is Shawna Russell’s debut album, but she is certainly not a newcomer. Her past includes live performances at well-known national venues like Billy Bob’s, The Wildhorse Saloon, Grizzly Rose, etc… And she has spent the past three years touring with Ty England before deciding to take a stab at a solo album. She is more than ready to be one of country music’s top rising stars if “Goddess” is any indication and it is evident the minute that you hit play and are met with the upbeat “Back on My Feet,” which begs to be compared to the likes of “Beautiful Goodbye” era Jennifer Hanson. The guitars smoothly deliver the licks that will have you bouncing along with Russell’s crisp radio friendly vocals; a trend that continues on tracks like the roadhouse flavored “Should’ve Been Born With Wheels,” and the honky tonk tinged album closer “Little Dixie.”
Russell hasn’t forgotten about the ballad though as she displays her ability to let her voice carry a great lyric on “The Only One,” a love song that offers hope to the rejected, and “Shed A Tear,” an outstanding song with a lyric paying tribute to women that serve in the military offering a different look at a solider then we are used to hearing in most songs. From the upbeat, pop driven songs, to great ballads, to a voice that shines throughout, Shawna Russell has put out a very solid debut effort that encompasses everything modern country is. This is a must have album for any fan of modern country and Shawna Russell is an artist to definitely keep an eye on.
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