Overview of "The Metropolitan Hotel" by Chely Wright
"The Metropolitan Hotel" is the sixth studio album by American country artist, Chely Wright. Released in 2005, the album features twelve tracks that display Wright's talent as a vocalist and songwriter. The album was produced by Wright herself, Jeff Huskins (known for his work with Little Big Town and Clay Walker), and Anthony Smith. Following its release, "The Metropolitan Hotel" received favorable reviews from critics and fans, with some songs charting on the Billboard Country Chart. This album marks a turning point in Wright's profession, showcasing her development as an artist and developing her as a respected singer-songwriter in the c and w market.
Tracklist and Highlights
1. "It's the Song" - This positive track, co-written by Wright, celebrates the power that music has on our lives, the relationships we form through it, and its ability to stimulate feelings.
2. "Back of the Bottom Drawer" - Penned by Wright and Liz Rose, this tune touches on the memories and mementos that we hold within the bottom drawer, which tells our life's journey.
3. "Sex, Drugs and Rock & Roll (Ain't No Cure for the Summertime Blues)" - An appealing tune that includes a strong expression of rebellion. This song is a cover of the 1958 track by Eddie Cochran, bringing a country twist to the timeless rock and roll single.
4. "The Bumper of My SUV" - Inspired by Wright's real-life experience, this sincere song handle the sensations associated with the display screen of patriotism throughout wartime and dividing opinions.
5. "The River" - This wholehearted ballad highlights Wright's emotions and vulnerability through her expressive vocals and storytelling.
6. "Just the Way We Do It" - A feel-good song that commemorates the easy delights and worths of country living.
7. "The Metropolitan Hotel" - The title track of the album is a powerful ballad, where Wright narrates a story about a lady finding solace and recovery in a hotel room.
8. "Bumper of My Heart" - This upbeat, tongue-in-cheek tune is about commemorating a strong, long lasting love.
9. "Your Shirt" - A tender ballad about the envigorating comfort and memories that come from wearing a lover's shirt.
10. "Between a Mother and a Child" - An emotive tune exploring the complex relationship in between moms and their children, dealing with the struggles of letting go and moving on.
11. "Southside of Lonesome" - In this melancholic ballad, Wright records the isolation and discomfort felt by those who miss their lovers.
12. "Wheels" - The closing track of the album is a poignant ballad about the cynicism and journey of life, leaving an enduring impact on the listener.
Chart Performance and Reception
"The Metropolitan Hotel" reached # 18 on Billboard's Top Country Albums chart, while 2 of its singles, "The Bumper of My SUV" and "The River", made their method to the Billboard Hot Country Songs Chart, peaking at # 35 and # 49 respectively. The album garnered positive reviews from critics, praising Wright's songwriting, vocals, and the album's varied soundscape. "The Bumper of My SUV" ended up being particularly popular among marines and military households, getting considerable airplay on c and w stations.
In conclusion, Chely Wright's "The Metropolitan Hotel" is an effective, emotive, and well-crafted album that showcases her development as an artist and her credibility as a storyteller. Through the varied collection of songs, from fun and defiant tunes to deeply psychological ballads, Wright establishes herself as a respected singer-songwriter in the c and w genre.
Artist: Chely Wright
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