CD Review: Rascal Flatts “Changed”

When I think of the hottest Country Music stars of today, Rascal Flatts immediately comes to mind. They’ve sold more than 21 million albums and 25 million digital downloads, have seen 13 singles hit the top of the charts, and they’ve won more than 40 major awards, including seven ACM trophies for “Vocal Group of the Year” and six trophies for CMA “Vocal Group of the Year”.  Rascal Flatts is comprised of Gary Levox, Jay Demarcus and Joe Don Rooney, three guys who combine exquisite musicianship, incredible harmonies and the down-home charm of the boy next door.

Their newest album, just released on April 3 and produced by Big Machine Records, is called Changed.  After having the chance to review it, I’m convinced that there’s nothing Rascal Flatts doesn’t do well.  The guys are back again with their thoughtful lyrics and stirring harmonies that have made them superstars.  Their single “Banjo” is already a Top 10 Country Hit, and I’ll bet they see at least a couple of others off of this album.  My personal favorites are “Lovin’ Me”, a simple, upbeat song about the staying love of a longtime partner, “A Little Home”, a heartfelt piece about carrying the love and simplicity of one’s home with you wherever you are, and the title track “Changed”.  This one was a surprise for me.  I have long known the guys of Rascal Flatts to be faith-filled men, but this song about being changed for the better after committing to a life lived in God’s sight is a bold step for a mainstream group.  I was deeply touched by that song, and have listened to it multiple times since receiving the CD, reflecting on my own faith journey.  No matter from where you come, Rascal Flatts’ CD Changed is heartfelt and identifiable; many, like me, will feel that a page has been taken right out of the listener’s own life story and put into beautiful, thoughtful words and harmonies.

Even if you’re not a Country Music fan, I encourage you to check it out!  Changed retails for $11.88, and Rascal Flatts’ energy, musical quality and vulnerability in the lyrics will move you and have you singing along in no time.  Visit RascalFlatts.com for exclusive downloads, tour dates and more!

Want to win tickets to see Rascal Flatts in concert? Be sure to enter the Rascal Flatts Fly Away Contest.

-Jessica

* We did not receive monetary compensation for this review. That’s IT Mommy are members of the One2One Network and participated in their Rascal Flatts campaign. We received a copy of Rascal Flatt’s Cd “Changed” free of charge to facilitate this review. This in no way swayed our opinion of the product or service.
 The review is in our own words and is our opinion. Your results and opinions may differ.*