Search - George Strait :: Holding My Own

Lorelie L. from CLINTON, MA
Reviewed on 12/5/2006...

Another great album from Country Music Artist #1.

Great Strait At A Bargain Price

James E. Bagley | Sanatoga, PA USA | 02/27/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"For over twenty years, George Strait has been cranking out an album a year with a nice balance of upbeat western swing and moving ballads of a romantic or mournful nature. 1992's HOLDING MY OWN has its share of both. "You're Right (I'm Wrong)" and the leadoff single "Gone As A Girl Can Get" are worthy additions to his uptempo formula while "All Of Me (Loves All Of You)" and the title track are certainly pleasant ballads.What makes this album such a treat - and one of Strait's best - is his ventures into new areas of music. The domestic tale - and second single "So Much Like My Dad" is the album's finest track. Strait's voice has rarely revealed so much sensitivity as he sings the most heartfelt "mama" this side of Wynonna Judd. The popish "Wonderland Of Love" would be right at home on a Kenny Rogers CD, but provides new territory for Strait. It is interesting to hear him sing an upbeat tune without much emphasis placed on his trademark Texas twang (as endearing as that twang may be). It shows that Strait could excel in the Adult Contemporary format if he so chose (which he doesn't).HOLDING MY OWN creates the overall impression that 11 years into his major label career, Strait was truly enjoying his music and felt secure enough to give anything a try that he liked. "It's Alright With Me," for instance would be right at home in a '60s Elvis movie. While the potential is there for cheesy disaster, Strait's effortless and joyous delivery makes one forget what a mindless romp it is and instead creates the urge for the listener to join in.While not one of his best selling albums, HOLDING MY OWN is one of Strait's best, most diverse efforts. Get it now while it is available at a budget price!"

Too bad that Pure Country bulldozed this one's potential

Jonathan Lammert | 06/09/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Like has been said before, it's unfortunate that this solid album immediately preceded George's most popular one, Pure. Only two songs were released from it. Several potential singles did not get the chance they deserved. The first four songs are impressive. You're Right and Holding are great contrasts in tempo, with both containing great choruses and melodies. Gone As a Girl is about as catchy as a single can get, and So Much does a great job in lookng at a relationship from a different perspective. Other highlights include It's Alright With Me, which is a solid rocker, and I love the "Throw another log..." line. Wonderland is not bad, but a little too much fluff. The weakest songs are probably Here We Go and All of Me. They are both missing the extra texture that other ballads of George have."