In the Mark McGuinn-penned "Unusually Unusual," lead singer Richie McDonald swoons over a girl who's "absolutely unpredictable." If only the same could be said of I'm Already There, which fulfills every expectation one cou... more »ld have of a Lonestar album. As usual, the band's ordinariness is delivered at a highly competent level, and the recordings here are all catchy all the time. The band rocks out in an agreeably familiar way, making equal use of country, pop, and AOR conventions, and McDonald can hit any note he wants if he's given a running start--as on the romanticized rationalizations of a power ballad called "I'm Already There," this album's bid for a hit of "Amazed" proportions. The disc's most surprising moment, "Without You," is also its most disappointing. After a mumbled, emotionally complex verse ("Hurt, cry, pray to die / That's all I've got left to do"), McDonald and his mates suddenly launch into an inexplicably bombastic chorus that sounds like its never even been introduced to its own depressive heart. --David Cantwell« less
In the Mark McGuinn-penned "Unusually Unusual," lead singer Richie McDonald swoons over a girl who's "absolutely unpredictable." If only the same could be said of I'm Already There, which fulfills every expectation one could have of a Lonestar album. As usual, the band's ordinariness is delivered at a highly competent level, and the recordings here are all catchy all the time. The band rocks out in an agreeably familiar way, making equal use of country, pop, and AOR conventions, and McDonald can hit any note he wants if he's given a running start--as on the romanticized rationalizations of a power ballad called "I'm Already There," this album's bid for a hit of "Amazed" proportions. The disc's most surprising moment, "Without You," is also its most disappointing. After a mumbled, emotionally complex verse ("Hurt, cry, pray to die / That's all I've got left to do"), McDonald and his mates suddenly launch into an inexplicably bombastic chorus that sounds like its never even been introduced to its own depressive heart. --David Cantwell
Candice C. from DENVER, CO Reviewed on 9/5/2006...
I really liked this cd, however, these days country music reminds me of walking through ankle-deep mud, and is about as enjoyable, so I'm going to let this one go.
CD Reviews
There are certain things you need to consider;
markoni | Switzerland | 10/19/2001
(4 out of 5 stars)
"If you were a fan of Lonestar because of their Lonely Grill album, then do not buy this CD. Lonely Grill was much more "country" than this one. Except for "I'm already there", this CD is not typical Lonestar. I must say, I was a little dissapointed at first, however the more I listened to this CD, the more it grew on me. It's an interesting new sound you cant dismiss, but I hope they come back to their original sound on the next CD. I would buy this CD if you're a big fan, however those who like their past songs better stick with the old CD, they wont find it here."
Another great CD for Lonestar
markoni | 08/18/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Lonestar's new "I'm Already There" album is a great follow-up to "Lonely Grill." I love it!! "Not a Day Goes By" and "I'm Already There" are Lonestar's bids for another hit like "Amazed." "I'm Already There" is my favorite song of the album. It tells a great story, and Richie McDonald's voice is wonderful in it (as it is in every song.) The album also has plenty of good upbeat songs, such as "Out Go the Lights" and "Unusually Unusual." "Unusually Unusual" is a fun song, and I like its message, too. Overall, a great new CD from Lonestar!!"
Don't listen to critics, this CD is awesome.
Tim Cunningham | Carlsbad, CA United States | 07/06/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"They soar on power ballads "Not a Day Goes By" and "I'm Already There". "Without You" is the surprise of the CD not the disappointment. This song will have AOR fans blushing. "I want to be the One" and "Unusually Unusual" are super catchy and addictive. This CD has something for all fans of music: Soaring vocals, upbeat country rock songs, power ballads, etc.This could be album of the year at the awards show."
Out go the lights...but this CD is sure to stay on
Tim Cunningham | 06/27/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I just picked up "I'm Already There", popped it in the CD player, and I guarantee it's not coming out any time soon. I was hooked on the title track the first time I heard it, but every song on this album, top to bottom, is great. Very rarely do you find a CD where every song is worth listening to...but I guarantee you won't be playing with the skip button too often. "Unusually Unusual" is a terrific cut for this group of guys known more for their ballads than their up-beat tunes. The song is cute, catchy, and a guaranteed radio hit if it's ever released. "With Me" is in the same boat.Did I say ballads? "Not A Day Goes By" is one of the highlights of this CD.Go out and buy "I'm Already There". You won't be disappointed."
Amazed
Linda Hartley | Arizona, United States | 08/18/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Who would believe that Lonestar could capture the magic of Amazed so soon! Amazing! I was listening to the radio and the meaning of the words in I'm Already There totally captured my attention! What a powerful song! Richie McDonald wrote this from his experience and personal experience is always the best in that it gives such strength and emotion to a song when it is really felt in the heart. Just a note...when our songs start reflecting where science is leading us a wonderful thing happens. The fact that this song is understood and appreciated by so many really shows that we are collectively understanding that our lifes essence includes much more than meets the eye and swirls around us in a world we sometimes cannot see...what in the world am I talking about? Try reading "The Living Energy Universe" by Gary Schwartz and Linda Russek and it will explain that energy and information is alive and surrounds us and everything in the universe and that we are so connected that there is never a time when we are alone for we are a part of everything there is according to Gods plan for all creation. Pretty heady stuff but it seems everything is interconnected and everyone will "get this" ......"