Sisters Wade

Album Review

As the first act besides the Charlie Daniels Band to be signed to the young Blue Hat label, (co-owned by Charlie Daniels and David Corlew) Julie and Debbie Wade came out of the chute wide open, with a sound that rivaled that of any of Nashville's hot young country performers. While there are certainly similarities to acts like the Judds, the Dixie Chicks, and Shania Twain, there is something very special and absolutely unique about the music these young women produce. Charlie Daniels said, "These girls remind me of a babbling brook out back of my house when I was a kid - so fresh you could drink from it." Daniels pretty much hit the nail on the head. The Wade's band, the Hipwaders, is tight and smooth, backing some fine country vocals. The CD opener, "Don't Let Me Down," written by Debbie and Julie, is a sure-fire dancefloor smash, uptempo with a catchy hook and soaring melody. The honesty and passion carry over into the rest of the album as well, with songs like "I'm Not Over You," "I Told Him All About You," and "You're All I Need," with it's Eagles-sounding music and pure country melody. Produced by Bill Halverson (Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young; the Texas Tornados), Sisters Wade is a record filled with heart. Part Emmylou Harris and part Alison Krauss, with mandolins, dobros, and standup bass, the music is acoustic and fresh, and very radio friendly. The first single, "How Much Longer," climbed country charts around the country, breaking ground for an inevitable success for the two Massachusetts natives turned Nashville girls. When all is said and done, Sisters Wade will remain a force to be reckoned with on the country music charts. ~ Michael B. Smith, Rovi