The primary criticism of Kacey Musgraves' career to-date, through two studio projects, is the fact that, both sonically and lyrically, she has rarely stepped outside her comfort zone. That's not to say that the vast majority of her limited catalog isn't very good to great, because it is, but it's hard to argue that she's put a varied style of music thus far. However, "Dime Store Cowgirl" finds Musgraves leaning towards a more pop-country style melodically and production wise, with astonishing results.
"Dime Store Cowgirl" is an auto-biographical tune that vividly paints, what one would assume, the life of the young Musgraves', with little tidbits such as "I've had my picture made with Willie Nelson" and "I felt really small under Mount Rushmore" adding depth an intricacy to the listening experience. Unlike much of Musgraves' past work, "Cowgirl" focuses on personal experience rather than social commentary, which she tackles with just as much, if not more, proficiency.
From a sonic standpoint, "Dime Store Cowgirl" is easily Musgraves' finest moment to-date, with twangy guitars and an addictive melody mixing to make for a record that is both radio friendly, and at the same time undoubtedly country. Throw in Musgraves' light-but-commanding vocal, and you have a single tailor-made for repeat listens.
As good as her past singles have been - namely "Merry Go 'Round" and "Follow Your Arrow" - "Dime Store Cowgirl" is an outstanding listen on all fronts, and may just be her best radio single yet.
Grade: A
Listen: "Dime Store Cowgirl"
By Markus Meyer
"Dime Store Cowgirl" is an auto-biographical tune that vividly paints, what one would assume, the life of the young Musgraves', with little tidbits such as "I've had my picture made with Willie Nelson" and "I felt really small under Mount Rushmore" adding depth an intricacy to the listening experience. Unlike much of Musgraves' past work, "Cowgirl" focuses on personal experience rather than social commentary, which she tackles with just as much, if not more, proficiency.
From a sonic standpoint, "Dime Store Cowgirl" is easily Musgraves' finest moment to-date, with twangy guitars and an addictive melody mixing to make for a record that is both radio friendly, and at the same time undoubtedly country. Throw in Musgraves' light-but-commanding vocal, and you have a single tailor-made for repeat listens.
As good as her past singles have been - namely "Merry Go 'Round" and "Follow Your Arrow" - "Dime Store Cowgirl" is an outstanding listen on all fronts, and may just be her best radio single yet.
Grade: A
Listen: "Dime Store Cowgirl"
By Markus Meyer
