It's Not About You

Even before the listener plays the first track on the Ennis Sisters' album, he or she is struck by the title. It's Not About You has a vague feminist ring to it: These three sisters may seek love like other women, but they also have individual existences beyond any love interest in their lives. As one might expect, the sisters — Maureen, Karen, and Teresa — flex a lot of vocal dexterity, trading leads and intertwining their voices for high-flown harmony. The bluesy "Turn up the Radio" sounds like a good radio track with a singalong chorus. The singer isn't against love, but declares: "Maybe someday we'll be ready for this/A white picket fence and a couple of kids/I know what I'm not and I know what this is/And I'm not doin' it yet." For listeners accustomed to Rounder's mostly acoustic acts, country-pop tracks with a full-blown production like "Knocks Me off My Feet" may come as a bit of a shock. The sisters balance these upbeat songs of independence with sad ballads like "All Over Again" and "If Only": Freedom is a wonderful thing, but it leaves one lonely. The album ends by including remixes of the title track, "I'd Never Walk Away," and "Without You," each with bigger productions and a more pop-friendly sound. The Ennis Sisters have crafted a confident and radio-friendly album. It's Not About You will please fans of the group's self-titled album and fans of female groups like the Dixie Chicks. ~ Ronnie D. Lankford, Jr., Rovi