The Incredible Machine

Country music fans have been waiting two years for Sugarland's newest, and they will not be disappointed - unless, that is, they expect more of the same. This CD is nothing like the three albums they released in 2004, 2006, and 2008. It's far less twangy and far more rocking, as much Melissa Etheridge as Dixie Chicks.

This may be good or bad news, depending on how you feel about the change. Incredible Machine has the biggest sound the band has ever produced: sweeping, stadium-filling anthems that show off Jennifer Nettles' commanding voice, especially the first two tracks, "All We Are" and the title song. The third track is the already-released single, "Stuck Like Glue," a radio-friendly hit that epitomizes country-pop, with a brief, strange detour into reggae-rap.

The fourth track, "Tonight," is a heartfelt ballad that bears an uncanny resemblance to the aforementioned Etheridge. The fifth, on the other hand, contains the harmonies and themes we've come to...Read more

Why does everyone seem to be getting hung up on genre ?

This album is nothing less than spectacular. I liked back in the day when artists like Queen, Prince & David Bowie [to name but a few] would have a a diferent sound on each album, yet still sound like themeselves. Sugarland has done this w/ The Incredible Machine. I would rather an artist give the fans something new and intersting, thus helping them grow, rather than xeroxing what previously worked [i.e. taylor swift .. all of her tunes sound almost exactly the same].
Sure The Incredible Machine isn't a country album by any means but it is great. The title track is very atmospheric and moody and for being 5 min goes by way too quickly. Little Miss will work well on country radio. Shine The Light is this album's Stay, moving and heartfelt.
To those that expect a certain sound from an artist I say: OPEN YOUR MINDS and do not pidgeon hole YOUR music tastes.
My only complaint is that the cover...Read more

Sugarland has done an amazing job evolving with each album. You never get the same thing, which I think, is a really good thing. If you're expecting a true country album, this may not be for you. BUT this album is so inspiring and so much fun! I pre-ordered it and it hasn't come out of my CD player or off my iPod since October 19th. I highly recommend it!