Unstoppable

Rascal Flatts’ winning combination of high-gloss harmonies, guitar heroics and achingly romantic songwriting comes through once again on 2009’s Unstoppable. Lead singer Gary LeVox is a master at capturing yearning and regret without falling into self-indulgent despair. “Here Comes Goodbye,” “Forever” and “Once” are dramatic country-pop arias, building from wistful openings to big emotional crescendos. “Why,” a poignant remembrance of a suicide victim, is an especially effective statement of loss. Not all is sorrow here, though — the full-throttle party anthem “Summer Nights” and the sunny, almost hedonistic “She’d Be California” offer fast relief from the doldrums. Somewhere in between these extremes are thoughtful, delicately-textured midtempo songs like “Things That Matter.” While Rascal Flatts’ smooth vocal blend remains the focal point, Joe Don Rooney’s muscle-flexing guitar is a key element in giving these tracks punch and definition. Whether they are embracing sadness or celebrating a day at the beach, these Rascals remain at the top of their game.