Messina shines on new album
Jo Dee Messina opens her new album, “Me,” with a song title that declares she’s “Not Dead Yet.” The veteran country singer proved just that when fans rallied behind her Kickstarter campaign, helping her raise more than $100,000 for the recording of this 12-song collection.
Messina’s declaration comes across clearly on this vibrant album. “Me” repeatedly speaks of second stages in life. Messina, 43, continually addresses the value of experience in her songs, as well as in co-writing seven songs and in co-producing the album with Julian King.
The songs “Love On A Maybe” and “Breakin’ It Down” confront a partner about commitment, making it clear she needs more from him, and “A Woman’s Rant” wittily rips at the fast pace of modern-day life for a working mother.
The album’s ballads slow things down – not just in tempo, but in quality, too. However, whenever the beat kicks in, so does Messina’s entertaining style.