Hope Partlow – Who We Are

Artist: Hope Partlow

Title: Who We Are

Label: Virgin

Rating: 7/10

FILE UNDER: COUNTRY POP

CORPORATE LINE: Though Partlow spent her early years singing the country and gospel songs that were native to her Tennessee roots, her musical tastes now veer more toward pop and rock. “I love country music,” she says, “but I feel that I am at a place in my life where I can better express myself through pop music.”

The songs on Partlow’s debut album arose from a series of intimate and creative collaborations with a group of specially-selected songwriters. Through long talks with the singer–and an occasional peek into the contents of her private diary—the writers were able to fashion songs that matched the strength and power of her voice but also conveyed the very palpable sensitivity of a girl digging down deep, getting in touch with feelings of love and loss for the very first time. “When you’re just starting to mature as an artist, it’s helpful to be writing with people and telling them what you’re going through,” says Partlow. The sessions proved to be extraordinarily productive—and cathartic—for the singer, yielding an array of uncompromisingly affecting songs by such accomplished tunesmiths as Angie Aparo (Faith Hill’s “Cry,” Big & Rich’s “Big Time”), Kevin Kadish (Stacie Orrico’s “More To Life,” and Dan Wilson (Semisonic’s “Closing Time”).

After songwriting was complete, Partlow moved to New York City to record with Grammy-winning producer Serletic, whose credits include hits by matchbox twenty, Rob Thomas, Santana, Aerosmith, Celine Dion, and Willie Nelson. “Matt is a dream to work with,” she says. “He really helped me dig down and discover more of myself as an artist.”

THE GREAT:
“Crazy Summer Nights” – No doubt that if Sheryl Crow sang this song it would be a huge hit. Can Paltrow do the same with it? We’ll see.
“Like You Do” – A pretty song that doesn’t get out of your system.
“It’s Too Late” – Faith Hill has a real threat here. Look out!
“Everywhere But Here” – This song is one-half pop, one-half country and a whole lot of fun.
“Let Me Try” – A love song that makes Paltrow seem much older. This is purely country but pop fans will surely fall head over heels.

THE AVERAGE:
“Who We Are” – The first thing that comes to mind is “I’m sure this will make a nice track during a scene on the OC.” Whether that is good or bad depends upon your taste.
“Girlfriend” – Perhaps if I was fifteen I’d dig it even more. Irregardless the song is infectious and will no doubt have teen girls everywhere dancing and singing along.

THE BAD:
Nothing terrible. There are some songs that are rough around the edges but still have enough to keep you listening.

FRANKLY: Hope Paltrow has a big voice and a infectious spunkiness. She has what it takes to become a huge star. Don’t underestimate this talented teen—this is just the beginning. Look out world Hope Paltrow has arrived!

+ Rae Gun