Sali Hagan's new CD UNDERLAY is an accomplished work from a great singer and song writer. I get a number of CD's from female artists and most of them never get to the review process because they either can't sing or the subject matter is lacking any imagination. The usual, boy meets girl, boy cheats on girl, boy leaves girl, girl cry's theme.

OK, this CD doesn't quite break that mold but the loneness and torment of life being unfair theme is not overwhelmingly obvious. You would have to dive into the liner notes and read the poetic lyrics to get to the heart of the matter. Today people do not buy CD's like they did 10 years ago. They simply download songs and play them on their MP3 player or iPod. That means that very few people will get the opportunity to really read the lyrics and that is unfortunate.

I was taken by the lyrics in 'Lovely'..Feelings come naturally what it takes for you to believe, in me. I'm letting go of all the shit and what it's worth to make you see, I'm me..ME" as Sali wants to be herself and not someone that she is being molded into. This is the lyrics of a strong person that just wants to be "ME" (herself).

This CD offers intellectual content, great song structures, wonderful musicians and the incredible voice of Sali Hagan. If you like listening to singers like Fiona Apple, Sarah McLachlan or Jewel I would highly recommend this offering. Sali has a voice that is well defined and breathtaking at times. She offers 9 songs that are all amazing listening experiences.

Sali has soul, especially on the final track 'Believe' which is straight out of the Janis Joplin mold of combining gospel/blues with a bunch of soul. The song features Regina McCrary on the B3 and electric guitar by Rick Watford. This song is worth owning the whole CD as Sali really let's her hair down and gets it all out on the table. The song sounded like everyone involved in this recording took it up one more notch. This was already a first class offering and the final track UNDERLAY takes it over the top.

I've been so impressed with the recording quality of the last batch of CD's I have recieved. This CD was no exception. Recorded in Franklin, Tennessee at 13 Degrees Studio and mastered at French Beach Studios, also in Franklin, Tn.

Sali's voice was crystal clear in the mix. On a revealing audio system you could actually hear her take a breath or wet her lips before she begins to sing. This kind of resolution was reserved for the major label artists but with today's modern technology even a quality independent artist can enjoy top drawer records.

Nothing but high praise for a CD that is well written and every nuance is captured in the studio. Even the CD package was well thought out and first class. If Sali never records another CD she can be proud of this landmark achievement but I think she'll be back with more in the future.

This CD is available from CD Baby at: Sali Hagan CD... BUY IT!!!!