One of the freshest, most vibrant and dynamic female singer/songwriters in contemporary American music is Mary Chapin Carpenter. Her unique brand of country-rock music consistently displays a keen sense of intelligent aloofness, combined with an unintentional sensuality, that results in an always- entertaining assortment of songs. An excellent acoustic-guitar player, Mary Chapin Carpenter also possesses a beautiful singing voice, which is instantly- recognizable to legions of fans around the world. Since the release of her first album, Hometown Girl, in 1987, Mary Chapin Carpenter has emerged as one of the most talented and entertaining contemporary American musicians to engage both country and rock audiences, in decades. Presented here, is one reviewer’s guide to ten great songs by Mary Chapin Carpenter.
How Do..
An upbeat, jazzy and snazzy song from 1989’s State of The Heart album, How Do is a somewhat Cajun- sounding number that in some ways is a song of empowerment and role reversal. Even when she’s sounding sexy, as she does in How Do, Mary Chapin Carpenter still exudes an air of intelligence and class. In this song, she is a “Local girl who wants to show you around”. When she sings ” I’m sort- of in the mood to speak some French tonight”, one wishes they knew the language.
The Bug..
This Mark Knopfler song is covered brilliantly by Mary Chapin Carpenter and her band on 1992’s Come On, Come On album. This well- written, humorous song is filled with analogies that impel the listener to ponder their significance. Musically, this song really rocks, without being overdone and the musicianship is first- rate. with lines such as ” Sometimes you’re the windshield, sometimes you’re the bug”, this song is memorable.
Passionate Kisses..
A great example of Mary Chapin Carpenter’s trademark acoustic- electric sound, Passionate Kisses is an always- fresh sounding song from 1992’s Come On, Come On album, that spotlights her sultry / intellectual sexiness. In this song, Mary Chapin Carpenter aspires to have a “Full house and a rock and roll band. Very tight musicianship, sparkling vocals and intelligent lyrics make this song a keeper.
Down at the Twist and Shout..
With an instantly- hummable melody and toe- tapping velocity, Down at the Twist and Shout is a bright and happy song from 1990’s Shooting Straight in the Dark album that evokes lots of celebratory imagery. In this fiddle- inflected work, Mary Chapin Carpenter is in search of ” A two- step partner and a Cajun beat.” Repeated listenings of this song may inspire listeners to become a member of a band or musical group.
You Win Again..
A very atmospheric song brimming with stark imagery, from 1990’s Shooting Straight in the Dark album, You Win Again is a fine example of Mary Chapin Carpenter’s exemplary word- play, great vocals and excellent musical skills. In this song, she’s freezing at a phone booth in the middle of nowhere, with only one quarter left. Although there is a tone of world- weary resignation, the listener can’t help but feel that Mary Chapin Carpenter will pick- up the pieces and move- on again.
Halley Came to Jackson..
A warm and engaging song with an interesting topic, Halley Came to Jackson tells the tale of when Halley’s Comet came to Jackson in 1910. Propelled by a complex, yet hum-able melody, this song from 1990’s Shooting Straight in the Dark album is also filled with imagery such as rocking babies and neighbors on the front porch, in simpler times. Mary Chapin Carpenter’s voice is magnificent in this song.
I Take My Chances..
When Mary Chapin Carpenter intones ” I don’t mind working without a net” and “I take my chances every chance I get,” in this song, the listener can’t help but believe her. Her voice is in fine form on this number from 1992’s Come On, Come On album, which is highlighted by first- rate lyrics. The rythym section and keyboard work on this Mary Chapin Carpenter song is also excellent.
The Hard Way..
A bright, upbeat and inspirational song from 1992’s Come On, Come On album, The Hard Way features Mary Chapin Carpenter’s trademark acoustic guitar backed by a top- flight, full- band sound. When she sings ” Actions speak louder” and “Listen to your heart”, it is sage advice. The cheerful optimism of this song is exemplified by the refrain, which in part, exclaims “Everything we got, we got the hard way.”
Shut Up and Kiss Me..
Aside from having a fantastic title, Shut Up and Kiss Me is a first- class song from 1994’s Stones In The Road album, that consistently sounds fresh and exciting. A country- rock- pop hybrid that features Mary Chapin Carpenter in a sexy and provocative mood, this song really rocks, with the help of a stellar band backing her. With a refrain that says in part “It’s been too long, since somebody whispered ” Shut- up and kiss me,” it’s easy to like this song.
I Feel Lucky..
To this reviewer, I Feel Lucky is one of the freshest, most exciting and interesting songs recorded by an American female singer in many years. Featuring great lyrics, smart musical breaks, tight musicianship and superb vocals, this song from 1992’s Come On, Come On album displays Mary Chapin Carpenter at her rockin’ best. In this song, she speaks of a lottery jackpot worth $11 million dollars, “A pack of Camels, a burrito and a Barq’s,” among other things. A true gem.
