When you think of Carrie Underwood nowadays, do you think “American Idol” or do you think “country superstar”? Half the time, I don’t even remember the fact that she’s an Idol winner because she’s become a huge star in her own right. After listening to Kate & Kacey’s debut album, “Crossroad,” I feel the same way. They got their start on CMT’s “Can You Duet?” in 2008, but they are so much more than “those twins from that CMT show.” Kate and Kacey Coppola sound like seasoned pros on this record.

The album’s first single, “Gypsy Soul (You Again),” is a fun, upbeat song that’ll get your foot tappin’. If country radio gives these girls a chance, this song ought to get plenty of spins. Call up your radio station and ask if they have it. If not, tell them to get it.

“Whole Lotta Gone” is a song that appeared on their EP as an acoustic track. Hearing it with an electric guitar, bass, and drums really livens it up. My favorite line? “Jesus may love you and God knows I tried, but I’ve finally seen the light. You ain’t got a prayer tonight.” Word of advice: don’t piss these girls off. The album continues its party vibe with an anthem for honkytonk goers everywhere, “Honkytonk Party Song.” I guarantee this will be a fan favorite in their live shows.

The album’s true masterpiece is a song called “Weak.” Don’t let the title confuse you, as the song is anything but weak. It’s a big power ballad that shows off a softer, more vulnerable side of the girls. The vocals are absolutely flawless. Every lyric conveys genuine, heartfelt emotion. There is nothing remotely contrived about it.

To quote their song “Once”…

“Breathe it in. Soak it up … But don’t forget, this only happens once.”

It’s rare to come across a debut album that is this solid from start to finish. It “only happens once” in a blue moon.

There is currently no release date set in stone, but look for “Crossroad” to be released on iTunes in the near future. Hard copies will also be available via Kate & Kacey’s online merchandise store. In the meantime, make sure you download “Gypsy Soul (You Again)” on iTunes and/or request it at your local radio station.

Kristi Olson
CMTT New Music Contributor