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Set This Circus Down Review
07/13/2005 7:40 AM, AMG
Tim McGraw's first studio album on Curb Records after his multi-platinum A Place in the Sun delivers a more polished and diverse collection of 14 quality tunes with producers Byron Gallimore and James Stroud. From the energetic honky tonk sound of "Forget About Us," to the upbeat tempo of "Telluride," to the Latin-laced "Let Me Love You," McGraw masterfully flows from one sound style to the next. Yet McGraw's familiar country-pop sound remains evident throughout, especially on the title track, "Set This Circus Down," about a fast-paced couple yearning to kick back and relax by the countryside. Sung with such confidence, one might believe it's a self-imposed goal set by McGraw. Just as convincing are the heartfelt ballads of "The Cowboy in Me" and "You Get Used to Somebody," along with riveting guitar solos and synthesizing techniques heard on "Angel Boy." McGraw's wife, Faith Hill, contributes subtle harmonic vocals on the emotionally compelling "Angry All the Time," written by Bruce Robison. It portrays a relationship gone sour, which McGraw claims is a far cry from his own marital bliss, but was added to digress from his usual proverbial love songs. Although the sentimental "Grown Men Don't Cry," written by Steve Seskin and Tom Douglas, was the first official release from the album, McGraw's uplifting performance of "Things Change" at the Country Music Awards mysteriously found its way onto Napster first. Subsequently, "Things Change" hit the country radio airwaves, where it received rave success. McGraw's aggressive approach with this album is also a success; Set This Circus Down is one of his finest efforts and one you won't want to miss. ~ Deborah Wong, All Music Guide
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