Sugarland - Twice the Speed of Life

A surprise hit in 2004 and 2005, this Atlanta-based threesome arrived on the scene at precisely the right time--when country trios (Dixie Chicks, Rascal Flatts, and to a lesser extent, Trick Pony and SheDaisy) had proved themselves in the marketplace. Like those acts, Sugarland trade on solid and sometimes intricate harmonies and a killer lead vocalist. In this case, the full-tilt Jennifer Nettles plays Natalie Maines to Kristen Hall and Kristian Bush's Emily and Martie. And while it would be lovely to hear another member of the trio out front occasionally, Nettles, a deep-dish Southerner who knows no one-syllable words ("air" is "aye-er"), is a commanding presence. Stylistically, the group mixes it up, from the folk-rock of Hall and Bush's backgrounds to the driving pop that dominates much of contemporary country radio; thematically, the songs largely revolve around restlessness, the need to escape restrictions and find one's self, and the faith that things will work out. "Baby Girl," the hit about an itinerant musician writing home for money and emotional connectedness, is but one of several surefire winners here, which include "Something More," a mid-tempo quest for a more meaningful life, and "Tennessee," in which a radio request line rescues true love. The quieter songs ("Fly Away," "Hello") are no less well written and affecting, even as the barnburning "Down in Mississippi (Up to No Good)," about housewife ennui and riverboat gambling, falls embarrassingly flat. Does this triad have staying power? Well, just as their name implies, they're a little too sweet to equal the Chicks' gravitas, but there's no denying they've got energy to burn. --Alanna Nash Amazon.com

Sugarland is breathing new life into country music!

There is no doubt about it, Sugarland is breathing life into country music- and it surely needed it!! With relatable lyrics, great instrument play and the mesmarizing voice of Jennifer Nettles; Twice the Speed of Life is a hit for Sugarland.

Like many first CDs, I wouldn't say this is their best, already having bought Enjoy the Ride I have something to compare it to. But, this CD was a great addition to my collection and one I've been enjoying listening to. Sugarland seems to be a mix between mainstream country, yet at times reminds me of the "old school" country. It's a fine balance and they seem to have found it, as they have become quite the popular hit. Some of my favorite songs are: Baby Girl, Something More, Hello, Tennessee, Fly Away, Time, Time, Time and Stand Back Up.

I'd definitely recommend Sugarland to a country fan. I think that they've found a nice mix of songs for this CD- fast paced, slow crooning songs, catchy beats...and each song highlights both the voice as well as the instruments. Amen, this is what country music needed, a band to breath some new life into it- I for one appreciate it! July 8, 2008

knock off the accent!

I want to like sugarland!! But the way the lead singer (Jennifer) keeps pushing her voice and 'accent' it is impossible for me too. Not only is she making their songs sound twangy, dated, and annoying- she' pushing her voice too much!! Ugh- go back to their first cd for her real, pure voice. June 25, 2008

Love it!

I love Sugarland and I've seen them twice in concert. They are great. I am looking forward to their next release. June 18, 2008

Whole CD Fantastic!

Jennifer Nettles showcases her tremendous voice on this CD. It consists of songs that range from fun to pointant. For a country fan, it is what you listen to when you roll down the windows in the spring and turn up the radio! May 20, 2008

I love this CD!

Jennifer sounds amazing and all of the songs are great! I love this CD and would highly recommend it to everyone! January 18, 2008

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