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Phillip and Natalie LaRue, the brother and sister duo more commonly known as LaRue have just released their full-length follow-up to their debut EP, The Waiting Room. These two very young artists (both are still in their teens), have talent far exceeding their age. A maturity of style and lyrics is felt throughout the record. Flawless production and a fair budget help fuel this album to something that will make many a listener a fan. The lyrics are set out nicely, alongside portraits of Phillip and Natalie. One negative point for background colors, they've chosen light blue and pink, which, in my opinion, is too feminine and will therefore alienate a large audience. The music immediately redeems this negative aspect. Relying largely upon guitars, LaRue write and perform radio-sensible pop that isn't ground-breaking but also not too similar to everything else. Natalie's and Phillip's vocals blend nicely into solid harmonies. The best tracks, however, are those with solos by Natalie, whose captivating vocals are strongly reminiscent of LeAnn Rimes. Natalie and Phillip wrote all the songs, which is the most impressive part about this record. The lyrics may not be the most in-depth you'll hear, but for the young audience they were intended for, they are relevant and a positive alternative to a lot of the junk that is currently popular. On one of Natalie's solos, 'Someday,' she talks about meeting her future spouse. I don't know if you're near or far awayThis is a lot more mature approach to love than what the media tells this generation. LaRue also talk about true friendship on "Always Be." On "One Day of the Week," they sing about being totally committed to God, every day of the week. "Stars," while musically one of the best songs, fails to make a point lyrically, besides saying a lot of negative things about stars (the people). The rest of the record explores such topics as dealing with sin ("Fallen King") and remembering we are loved by God, even when humans can't offer us this love ("As She Cries)." A little more creativity could be the last ingredient required to make this a great album. However, Natalie and Phillip have plenty of time to work on that aspect of their music. Everything else works for me. Except for those colors. So do yourself a favor... Eric Daams 11/27/99
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