Album Review: "Love, Pain and the Whole Crazy Thing" by Keith Urban (2006)

Mr. Nicole Kidman, now drying out in rehab, has just released his fourth (and best) disc. "Love, Pain and the Whole Crazy Thing" is both consistent and strong, except for the embarassingly hokey "Faster Car" and the five years too late "Tu Compania". His guitar work is smoking throughout, and each song molds together, making this an "album" in the truest sense of the word (while at the same time allowing for each tune to stand on its own without getting lost in the mix). A lot of these tracks are going to be amazing live once Urban gets his issues worked out and hits the road, especially the lengthy "Stupid Boy" and perfect opener "Raise the Barn" (presented here as duet with Ronnie Dunn, one-half of the legendary duo Brooks and Dunn).

An all-around excellent effort from this country rocker who once again proves that he is far more than just a pretty face. (If you're looking for a comparison, I'd say Blue Rodeo's Jim Cuddy in his more melodic moments is a poor man's Keith Urban.)

Overall rating: 8/10 (with a loss of two marks for the overly sappy lyrics.)