Taking The Long Way
by Dixie Chicks
  • Record Label: Sony
  • Release Date: May 23, 2006
User Score
8.2

Universal acclaim- based on 142 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 118 out of 142
  2. Mixed: 7 out of 142
  3. Negative: 17 out of 142

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  1. Patrick
    Jun 29, 2007
    10
    Anybody who gives it a 0 or 1 obviously holds a huge bias. There are so many great songs on this album. 10 because it deserves it
  2. AllenK
    May 24, 2006
    10
    Surprisingly and impressively mature. Those looking for cowboy balladry and apologetic musings need to look elsewhere. They may never get country airplay again, but as artists, the Chicks are now on a whole different level. The music is in turns tough, uncompromising, thoughtful, and somber. They take on their critics directly, while at the same time revealing the pain the rift with Surprisingly and impressively mature. Those looking for cowboy balladry and apologetic musings need to look elsewhere. They may never get country airplay again, but as artists, the Chicks are now on a whole different level. The music is in turns tough, uncompromising, thoughtful, and somber. They take on their critics directly, while at the same time revealing the pain the rift with friends and the public has wrought. The production on this album is flawless--the layering of vocals and textured instumentation beautiful. Again, there are no weepy ballads here. It does take some getting used to, but after a couple of listens, the New Chicks' carve out a place firmly and permanently in your ear and gut. Those who tune out are losing out on one of the finest cd's of the year--a bravely carfted/won triumph. Welcome back ladies. We missed you. And congratulations.… Expand
  3. Nick
    May 23, 2006
    10
    I honestly didn't expect much; I loved the bluegrass-tinged Home and thought their next album would find them reverting to earlier (albeit still good) form. Instead it's their best, most cohesive, hook-filled album to date - even better than Home. Enough about the politics; this is just damn good music.
  4. JudyL
    Jun 7, 2006
    9
    This is music for music fans who are not in the top 1% economically in this country. If you are part of the 99%, and not listening to this, you are simply a fool. You are being played for a sucka.
  5. LisaL
    May 23, 2006
    10
    This album is an undeniable masterpiece. Music with this much honesty and integrity, and above all, talent, is certainly a rarity in the music industry.
  6. LuisG
    Jul 5, 2006
    10
    ....dixie chicks show promise as musicians and as commentators....judging the MUSIC !!! i say by far the best album of the year.... im glad it debuted at # 1 and is now PLATINUM rick rubin provided his genious to great writing ...light at the end of the tunnel....for those of you bashing take a moment and think how ugly it is to spread hate around words are powerful so it showed but what ....dixie chicks show promise as musicians and as commentators....judging the MUSIC !!! i say by far the best album of the year.... im glad it debuted at # 1 and is now PLATINUM rick rubin provided his genious to great writing ...light at the end of the tunnel....for those of you bashing take a moment and think how ugly it is to spread hate around words are powerful so it showed but what behaviour breads behavior teach yourself about choice off words....agree to disagree ....IN ALL AN AMAZING ALBUM FROM START TO FINISH !!!! A+… Expand
  7. AdamM
    Jul 8, 2006
    9
    Excellent to have them back! Different from earlier work, but that's all right. Melodic, thoughtful, compelling work. And they're still country gals - always will be.
  8. S.J.Donovan
    Oct 10, 2006
    10
    It's a relief to hear this after their first three albums. Gone are the melodically challenged tunes of the nineties, though they were pretty good, and out we come with this amazing album. Personally, I like the alternate country maturity of "Long Way" compared to the pop country monotony of their prior albums. They have pretty good lyric ability, even if "Favorite Year" and It's a relief to hear this after their first three albums. Gone are the melodically challenged tunes of the nineties, though they were pretty good, and out we come with this amazing album. Personally, I like the alternate country maturity of "Long Way" compared to the pop country monotony of their prior albums. They have pretty good lyric ability, even if "Favorite Year" and "Everybody Knows" could use some work. "I Hope" is a gorgeous gospel ballad, while "Not Ready To Make Nice" and "Silent House" are the best tracks by far, especially the imagery of "Silent House". Well done, Dixie Chicks.… Expand
  9. MattM
    May 23, 2006
    9
    For the first time they sound 100% engaged with the emotional base of each song. It's touching, poignant, and only lacking a great Patty Griffin tune. These are the Dixie Chicks of "Goodbye Earl," but with an experience that rings more true and a melody far more wispy and lovely. For the funtime rockabilly it eschews "Taking the Long Way" recasts the Chicks as songwriters and For the first time they sound 100% engaged with the emotional base of each song. It's touching, poignant, and only lacking a great Patty Griffin tune. These are the Dixie Chicks of "Goodbye Earl," but with an experience that rings more true and a melody far more wispy and lovely. For the funtime rockabilly it eschews "Taking the Long Way" recasts the Chicks as songwriters and musicians determined to avoid knee-jerk punditry for profound art.… Expand
  10. SuzieK
    May 24, 2006
    10
    I Love It! Forget they hype. These are just great songs.
  11. EricS
    May 24, 2006
    10
    Absolutely beautiful! I've always been a fan of the Chicks and have been eagerly looking forward to this cd for a long time. They have truely outdone themselves with this album. Anyone who won't listen to great music simply because they don't agree with the artists political views is an idiot. I have just one thing to say to those people... Grow Up!!! And a big THANK YOU to Absolutely beautiful! I've always been a fan of the Chicks and have been eagerly looking forward to this cd for a long time. They have truely outdone themselves with this album. Anyone who won't listen to great music simply because they don't agree with the artists political views is an idiot. I have just one thing to say to those people... Grow Up!!! And a big THANK YOU to the Dixie Chicks for this album.… Expand
  12. Spiffy
    May 25, 2006
    9
    Finally the Chicks are more than just pleasant sounding--they're relevant. It only misses a 10 becuse it's a few songs too long. Not that 14 tracks is INHERENTLY too much, but making it this long (and they apparently had more that are going to be bonus tracks in some packaging), is a mistake if they aren't all winners. Well one or two of these songs are just slow. Finally the Chicks are more than just pleasant sounding--they're relevant. It only misses a 10 becuse it's a few songs too long. Not that 14 tracks is INHERENTLY too much, but making it this long (and they apparently had more that are going to be bonus tracks in some packaging), is a mistake if they aren't all winners. Well one or two of these songs are just slow. That's mostly balanced out by at least four brilliant songs, and a lot of good and very good ones, but if they'd merely shaved a bit of fat off, it would have been perfect.… Expand
  13. veronicac
    May 25, 2006
    10
    I have been a long time Chicks fan and this album blew me away. They seem to have raised the bar on their musicianship. Unapologetic and straight forward, it is their very best effort to date
  14. zeldar
    May 25, 2006
    10
    These songs blow away the tripe Nashville is spewing out these days. It's nice to see mainstream country show some guts. Damn pansies! -mainstream Country Fans that is. Dixie Chicks Kick it!
  15. MattB
    May 25, 2006
    10
    This is a beautiful album! First off, I disagree completely with their political views, but they have a right to say what they want. And people have a right to hate them and not buy their cd's if they want to be crybabies. Everyone who doesn't hear this because of what Maines said is missing a fantastic cd. The first 11 (of 14) songs are all excellent. Personal fav might be This is a beautiful album! First off, I disagree completely with their political views, but they have a right to say what they want. And people have a right to hate them and not buy their cd's if they want to be crybabies. Everyone who doesn't hear this because of what Maines said is missing a fantastic cd. The first 11 (of 14) songs are all excellent. Personal fav might be Everybody knows. I hope grammy doesn't shun them like the Country Music Awards did for Home. That was childish.… Expand
  16. PatT
    May 25, 2006
    10
    Just a great album. Period. The melodies are fantastic and every song drips with passion.
  17. DanW
    May 26, 2006
    10
    Glad they didn't go crawling back to the people that treated them like dirt for expressing an opinion. They were bold enough to continue to express themselveson this album. In a time when the country charts are polluted with songs like "Tequila Makes Her Clothes Fall Off" and "I Ain't As Good As I Once Was", it's good to see that the Dixie Chicks are still writing songs Glad they didn't go crawling back to the people that treated them like dirt for expressing an opinion. They were bold enough to continue to express themselveson this album. In a time when the country charts are polluted with songs like "Tequila Makes Her Clothes Fall Off" and "I Ain't As Good As I Once Was", it's good to see that the Dixie Chicks are still writing songs about something MEANINGFUL. In truth, I was disappointed with the backlash against them; I always thought that the negative stereotype of country music fans was just a stereotype; but it seems a large number of them fit the "ignorant and angry" archetype well, including many of its singers. However, the Dixie Chicks have put that behind them, and this album has many close-to-the-heart, thoroughly enjoyable songs on it. Get it today!… Expand
  18. JohnT
    May 26, 2006
    10
    Their talent, heart, and values shine through this spectacular CD. It is music with warmth, but it is also written with a thouhtful artistic depth that separates the "Chicks' from the musical formulas that characterize so many other recording artists.
  19. RobertS
    May 27, 2006
    8
    Sounds a lot like Sheryl Crow (which is good ). Ultimately "the thing" is going to prove to be a major career boost as it's forcing them to seek a wider audience outside the traditional country demographics. They aren't completely there yet, but if they keep going this direction they end up being a whole lot bigger than the country stars who were criticizing them.
  20. MarkA.
    May 28, 2006
    9
    I can't say it any better than Entertainment Weekiy, "Finally, they put their music where their opinionated mouths are".
  21. rudib
    May 29, 2006
    10
    Country music has long celebrated "the rebel." But apparnetly not when the rebel is a strong, free thinking woman (or three) who's willing to speak honestly when public opinion is running the other way. The Chicks' honesty and heart shines through in this album. Thie music will move you.
  22. TommyT
    May 31, 2006
    10
    This album is their best yet. I think it shows the real maturity of the Dixie Chicks. Natalie Maines still has the best voice in America; regardless what she thinks about the president. I think many people would agree with her today.
  23. ValarieS
    May 30, 2006
    10
    It really saddens me that the people who the Dixie Chicks really could speak to and make a difference with have chosen to bury their collective heads in the sand. This CD is incredible, and they don't even care. Blind patriotism was big in Germany not so long ago too!
  24. WiltD
    Jun 1, 2006
    10
    Further proof that creative talent is not Republican in the least. The only thing the Republicans have talent at is manipulation and scamming. Thank GOD the Dixie Chicks are here & maybe will wake the masses from their blinding coma.
  25. RandallA
    Jun 13, 2006
    9
    Having not been a Dixie Chicks fan in the past they finally got me on this one. I loved the overall feeling. With head bobbing and foot tapping I was left wanting more.
  26. JerryP
    Jun 1, 2006
    10
    I've been listening since the debut and this is a great album with at least 5-6 solid singles. It has a true Chicks sound, despite the hype of a depature from country. A few riffs and elevated drums and background aren't enough. This is great Country Music. Not Ready To Make Nice is a high flying accomplishment, I liken it to Johnny Cash's Hurt. You can hear Rick I've been listening since the debut and this is a great album with at least 5-6 solid singles. It has a true Chicks sound, despite the hype of a depature from country. A few riffs and elevated drums and background aren't enough. This is great Country Music. Not Ready To Make Nice is a high flying accomplishment, I liken it to Johnny Cash's Hurt. You can hear Rick Ruben's contributions in many songs and those contributions serve to elevate the already soaring vocals of Nat and the Chicks. Love, like or hate the President; the music transcends the "controversy". If the Chicks simply let it lie at "I didn't vote for Mr. Bush" like Johnny Cash did, this album would have sold 1 million last week instead of 600,000. But it still had a number 1 debut with virtually no radio play. Not only does that say something about the Dixie Chicks, it says quite a lot about the "influence" of radio.… Expand
  27. Mike
    Jun 20, 2006
    10
    awesome. each song is better than the next.
  28. SethB
    Jun 2, 2006
    9
    Almost Perfect! It was really a great listen! I must add to that I bought this record in support of DC. I never bought any of their records before (i downloaded) but this one I was sure to BUY! I wanted to support their right to have their own opinion in country music because so much country has become like rap; bunch of look-a-likes and sound-a-likes saying the same thing!!! At least I Almost Perfect! It was really a great listen! I must add to that I bought this record in support of DC. I never bought any of their records before (i downloaded) but this one I was sure to BUY! I wanted to support their right to have their own opinion in country music because so much country has become like rap; bunch of look-a-likes and sound-a-likes saying the same thing!!! At least I can hear the other side of the coin, I don't have to agree with them to sway along to the music!… Expand
  29. KethryG
    Jun 20, 2006
    9
    As someone who have been listening to the Dixie Chicks since their first album - they sounded different in this album which I gladly welcomed. Getting new people to work with (such as Rubin, Wilson, and Crowe) worked for me but tehre are times when I do miss Griffin's touch. Also, I am offended that someone would imply that I am a communist for listening to them.
  30. AndyZ
    Jun 20, 2006
    9
    This is an outstanding album with a number of great and memorable songs. The best Chicks album ever and a moving declaration of defiance.
  31. MorganF
    Jun 26, 2006
    9
    Bitter-sweet melodies with conviction. A cross-over success / will not dissapoint.
  32. kevinb
    Jun 2, 2006
    8
    Great CD. I'm not a country fan at all, but this is damn good music. So melodic and catchy. Very soothing. Good stuff!
  33. GlennM
    Jun 3, 2006
    10
    Best country album since the last Dixie Chicks album.
  34. ChrisJ
    Jun 6, 2006
    8
    A very fine record. I agree with the one poster who wrote the 1st track is a stone-cold classic. It is indeed, the most artful new track I've heard from anyone the whole year. The first 1/2 the record is particularly strong, the 2nd half starts to wear a little thinner except the outstanding "Favorite Year." I have to laugh about the few negative comments, most of them the bleeting A very fine record. I agree with the one poster who wrote the 1st track is a stone-cold classic. It is indeed, the most artful new track I've heard from anyone the whole year. The first 1/2 the record is particularly strong, the 2nd half starts to wear a little thinner except the outstanding "Favorite Year." I have to laugh about the few negative comments, most of them the bleeting sheep that Orwell warned us about in Animal Farm. You know, the kind that has no individual identity of their own and can only listen to and enjoy entertainment products from performers whose ideology matches their own. I find it remarkable that one writer criticized the band for using the incident as a point to promote the record. Why the hell shouldn't they? They're suddenly not allowed to be played on the radio the old-fashioned way, they need all the marketing stragedy they can get, I'd do the same. I have a feeling the Dixie Chicks are going to totally reinvent their audience, exchanging the morons who bought their previous records for those who champion democratic principles like freedom of speech. I want this record to fly, not only because of its artistic merit, which is substantial, but also on principle. I bought a copies for myself, my sister and a friend. I hope others do the same.… Expand
  35. JyotirmayaD
    Jul 22, 2006
    8
    When the Dixie Chicks first came out I found their name ridiculous and their pop-country boring. Then the famous "Bush" bashing statement onstage in London. That statement and the afterlash of what they went through after it, has given these girls some much needed attitude -- it's punk! (well, not really "punkish" is more like it.) It's an album full of things to get off their When the Dixie Chicks first came out I found their name ridiculous and their pop-country boring. Then the famous "Bush" bashing statement onstage in London. That statement and the afterlash of what they went through after it, has given these girls some much needed attitude -- it's punk! (well, not really "punkish" is more like it.) It's an album full of things to get off their chests, minds and hearts. I am now a Dixie Chicks FAN! Four years ago, I would NEVER have thought that could possibly happen. Maybe his being President sucks for the country but it's not doing country-music (in this case) very bad at all! (Did I just SAY that? Yech!)… Expand
  36. MelissaP
    Aug 30, 2006
    10
    Although not the usual twangy get up and dance tunes the new CD is fabulous and very mature and has substancial heart felt meaning! A classic in it's own right!
  37. CaryS
    Jan 20, 2007
    10
    I am not a country music fan. Nor was I a DC fan before this album. This album has the guts to tackle personal issues (Voice inside my head) and of course political issues. No other group I know has the guts to challenge its listeners to think like the DC have on this CD. I guess that explains why some don't like it.
  38. QIM.
    Feb 22, 2007
    9
    It is truely a great album ,so meaningful,chicks go down ur own way like this ,I will show my best support,PS,bush goes the hell
  39. AaronL
    Mar 7, 2007
    10
    Another amazing album by one of the most incredible groups to date.... Taking The Long Way is sure to hold a place in my cd player for a long time to come... "Taking The Long Way", "Not Ready To Make Nice", "Silent House", and "I Hope" are certainly heart felt, personal works of art!! Enjoy!
  40. franciscog
    Apr 10, 2007
    10
    The best album of the year without a doubt.... flawless!!!
  41. NormaR
    May 23, 2006
    10
    I love it and I am glad that they are so defiant. It gives them a new breath of life. I love, love, love this album.
  42. JoeJ
    May 24, 2006
    10
    Earthy, gritty, melodic and memorable--as only three really pissed-off Texas gals can make it!
  43. Geoff
    May 24, 2006
    7
    This is a qualified commentary given that I've only heard 2 songs off of the 'net. But I gotta say 2 things.....1) good on ya, ladies, for kicking around Dubya and givng middle America the middle finger, but 2) those lyrics! Gack! No poetry, just a diary set to music. Blah. This is not the recipe for timeless music. Too bad. Is the rest of the thing the same?
  44. KenJ
    May 24, 2006
    10
    Their best yet. Not one "throwaway track" on the entire album. Destined to be a classic even without country radio support.
  45. RasieDae
    May 24, 2006
    10
    It amazes me that these girls are villianized and spat at by country fans. These 'Chicks' are the ones looking out for the working people of America and are the real PATRIOTS. What a shame that people vote against their BEST INTERESTS and don't even realize it!!! I vote to give this album 10 plus. These songs are timeless. WAKE UP Country fans, and buy this album.
  46. ScottO
    May 24, 2006
    10
    To Don C, your loss. One of the best records of the year.
  47. SethM
    May 25, 2006
    10
    A very good album. It is consistently well done unlike some of their previous work that had a couple of songs and others not so much. I must add that it is not the Dixie Chicks who are idiots, but rather the head-in-the-sand "fans" who are mad about the Chicks telling the truth. Wake Up!
  48. FineTuned
    May 25, 2006
    10
    These American ladies have more integrity than most every Country artist working today. They write IMPORTANT music and don't cater to the whims of your WalMart Wilma's. The music is much more focused this go-round. I Love the Dixie Chicks.
  49. KateDid
    May 25, 2006
    10
    Their BEST YET!!!!!!
  50. AndyF
    May 25, 2006
    10
    Excellent album. I'm glad to hear that they are staying true to themselves and not pandering to those former fans who used to like them, but now stop listening to the stations playing them because their political views are different than the Chicks. I find it interesting that some people will give them a "0" rating, especially if they've stopped listening to their music long Excellent album. I'm glad to hear that they are staying true to themselves and not pandering to those former fans who used to like them, but now stop listening to the stations playing them because their political views are different than the Chicks. I find it interesting that some people will give them a "0" rating, especially if they've stopped listening to their music long ago.?. I doubt they even heard it...… Expand
  51. AshesOfCash
    May 25, 2006
    10
    It really is very sad that Country music has been sooooo dumbed-down that the fan base doesn't even recognize a gem until it's too late. Loretta Lynn, Johnny Cash anyone. These two were all but sent to pasture by the country powers only to be recognized by those outside the country world (Rick Rubin & Jack White). Well Dixie Chicks, you are in good company. Keep up the awesome work.
  52. Anne
    May 26, 2006
    10
    Positively fabulous from start to finish.
  53. SeanL
    May 26, 2006
    10
    It's a shame country stations are denouncing the chicks. Who would have thought that the world would come to this. Finally a true, emotional, original country album is released, and people scoff. Why? Why are country stations afraid of originality and individuality? It's ok to sing about killing a husband, but it's not ok to have an opinion on the president? It's a It's a shame country stations are denouncing the chicks. Who would have thought that the world would come to this. Finally a true, emotional, original country album is released, and people scoff. Why? Why are country stations afraid of originality and individuality? It's ok to sing about killing a husband, but it's not ok to have an opinion on the president? It's a bunch of crap, and I'm glad the Dixie Chicks are moving on. It just goes to show who's mature in the industry and who isn't.… Expand
  54. DebbieM
    May 27, 2006
    9
    Even the rednecks in my office are liking me playing this new album. I love "Taking the Long Way", "Silent House", "Peaceful Silence", many, many of them.
  55. KennyC
    May 31, 2006
    10
    What makes the Dixie Chicks so good? Simply put, their music sends a message! When so many Americans are searching for answers to their own questions about this tragic war, and about our president, the Chicks stand up and shout about thier passionate defiance to his stature. I've purchased thier cd's before, yet this one has the very best message! We're all somehow What makes the Dixie Chicks so good? Simply put, their music sends a message! When so many Americans are searching for answers to their own questions about this tragic war, and about our president, the Chicks stand up and shout about thier passionate defiance to his stature. I've purchased thier cd's before, yet this one has the very best message! We're all somehow searching for the truth and these girls have seen it square in the face. Let their story be told!… Expand
  56. DanM
    May 30, 2006
    10
    Both powerful and personal. My wish is that other singer/songwriters create with such passion and heart.
  57. TammyC
    May 31, 2006
    10
    It rocks!!!!!!!!! GO CHICKS!!!!!!!!! UR THE BEST!!!!!!!!!!!!!
  58. TammyH
    Jun 13, 2006
    9
    Because of reduced radio play, this album took a few extra listens to really enjoy. And now just like their previous album Home which spent at least 16 months in my car cd player this too has become an outstanding favorite.
  59. ClaytonS
    Jun 14, 2006
    9
    This is an excellent album by a very fine Texas group. Go Chicks!
  60. JaneB
    Jun 18, 2006
    10
    Best female group ever. Chicks kick a**.
  61. RussellL-H
    Jun 2, 2006
    10
    There best effort yet. amazing.
  62. Donna
    Jun 20, 2006
    10
    The best of 2006 so far!
  63. MARKL
    Jun 22, 2006
    9
    "Silent House" has been overlooked - it bears close listening.
  64. JDWilliams
    Jun 23, 2006
    10
    EVERY SONG ON THIS CD PLEASES MY EARS! everyone should own this cd i havent heard a cd this good in so long.
  65. Comebackkid
    Jul 24, 2006
    9
    slant magazine can eat it
  66. tomhunnicutt
    Jul 5, 2006
    10
    Great!
  67. jennifers
    Aug 16, 2006
    10
    I give this alblum a 10 because these girls finally said what no one elese had the guts to.And for this alblum good lyrics good music as always girls keep truckin' you are awesome.The home album by the way all who doubt is a great alblum and the rest as well i have all their cds and i will buy them to the end.
  68. JeffN
    Sep 11, 2006
    10
    GR8! This album really lets you in how the girls have been reeling about those well-known events, in a way that's appealing and appreciated.
  69. debm
    Feb 3, 2007
    10
    dixie chicks rock!
  70. HectorC
    May 22, 2006
    10
    It rocks from beginning to end.
  71. MattD.
    May 22, 2006
    10
    I'm proud of the Dixie Chicks. These true patriots are beating country at its own game on this stellar album. It is something that a country/pop artist like Faith Hill would approach if she went beyond Nashville boundaries - but this CD is something only the Chicks can do. Great job!
  72. susana
    May 22, 2006
    10
    Powerful!!! Glad to see the Chicks are back making great music. I have never been a fan of country music but I have always loved the Dixie Chicks. I am very pleased with this new release. The range and musical acuity demonstrated has long been missed by this listener.
  73. JimmyD
    May 23, 2006
    10
    Excellent! Killer music and a bold message, flying in the face of war-mongering criticism. A must buy.
  74. ChrisK
    May 23, 2006
    10
    Taking the Long Way is a more mature album than their previous ventures, but their heart and soul still shines through. My favorite track has to be "Voice Inside My Head," a song about regret and wonderment. All the other tracks are excellent though, and it's a shame that radio will not support this. This is easily their best album with 14 of the best songs of 2006.
  75. JaneD
    May 24, 2006
    10
    Shameful, don't they know this is wartime? Nah, I'm just playing, this is rocking stuff, not to mention catchy. DC rules!!!!
  76. DavidB
    May 25, 2006
    10
    It's nice that you can both respect these ladies as artists and as people. This is their best album yet. And if radio won't play it -- they'll just sell more.
  77. RicM
    May 25, 2006
    10
    You can almost taste the passion that is going into the performance of each piece. This has to be recognized as the Dixie Chick's best, and undoubtedly, it is the best country album release in several years. There is nothing formulaic about it;each song puts the group's heart and very substantial soul on display. The Chicks are artists willing to sacrifice radio popularity to You can almost taste the passion that is going into the performance of each piece. This has to be recognized as the Dixie Chick's best, and undoubtedly, it is the best country album release in several years. There is nothing formulaic about it;each song puts the group's heart and very substantial soul on display. The Chicks are artists willing to sacrifice radio popularity to provide creativity and a much needed jolt to the country music scene. I'm thankful they've chosen to take the long way...they are a far more interesting group because of it.… Expand
  78. MegT
    May 26, 2006
    9
    I just love the earthy feel of this album. I have been a fan since hearing There's your Trouble on the radio several years ago. I love the Jayhawks influence. This album feels full of life and truth. My favorite song is Bitter End. I love the old bluegrass undertones. The only thing that I miss a little is the twang. Other than that it is great to have you back chicks. Keep I just love the earthy feel of this album. I have been a fan since hearing There's your Trouble on the radio several years ago. I love the Jayhawks influence. This album feels full of life and truth. My favorite song is Bitter End. I love the old bluegrass undertones. The only thing that I miss a little is the twang. Other than that it is great to have you back chicks. Keep makin' music and don't listen to the establishment. There are country music fans out there that want to listen to what you say. Ask Ryan Adams...… Expand
  79. JamesB
    May 27, 2006
    10
    I was happy to hear this album. I was worried that with all the hype the album might not live up to the expectations of the girls past work, but it blew me away. The lyrics, harmonizations, instruments and emotion combine to make this one of the best albums of the year. Congratulations ladies! You deserve continued success.
  80. [Anonymous]
    May 28, 2006
    8
    Mature melodies, crafty lyrical ability, but much more toned-down than Wide Open Spaces. If you're a fan, grab it...if not, it won't change your mind.
  81. BrandonS
    May 28, 2006
    8
    I always found the Dixie Chicks' music to be adequate but not outstanding. The more they criticized Bush and the war, though, the more I liked them as people, so I've kept my mind open to them being able to grow as musicians. When I heard of all the artists I'm a fan of that appear on this album (Louris, Tench, Campbell), I thought I'd give it a chance. I'm glad I I always found the Dixie Chicks' music to be adequate but not outstanding. The more they criticized Bush and the war, though, the more I liked them as people, so I've kept my mind open to them being able to grow as musicians. When I heard of all the artists I'm a fan of that appear on this album (Louris, Tench, Campbell), I thought I'd give it a chance. I'm glad I did. This group has made an excellent album, and they've won over a new fan. (The first track, in particular, is an absolute, stone-cold classic, right off the bat.)… Expand
  82. KMcCarthy
    May 28, 2006
    9
    Best album yet. Let's hope life inspires the DCs to more great work.
  83. kellyl
    May 31, 2006
    10
    just outstanding. loving every song. hasnt left my cd player since the day i bought it. the best release of the Chicks yet.
  84. SamD
    Jun 24, 2006
    8
    It's good, but the fact that it has ONE amazing song just makes the album. FUTK!
  85. DineshP
    Jul 12, 2006
    8
    Good Overall. Not a country fan. But good music. lot of power and emotion. Valid points, Beautiful arrangement with the typical DC delivery makes this one a must have. And more importantly they made a point and stuck to it. Bush should listen to this and Pink's Im not dead.
  86. ArielG
    Jul 15, 2006
    10
    I'm not a big fan of country music, so I approached this album with a little caution. I've heard some of their songs on the radio and they were all very fun and melodic. I bought the album today and it has turned me into a total fan. I'll be buying their Home album tomorrow. Rock on, girls!
  87. izata
    Aug 11, 2006
    9
    these chix rocks!!!!! absolutely better than home!!
  88. TomP
    Sep 13, 2006
    10
    The Chicks' best work so far. Every piece of music on this CD is powerful enough to stand alone. Together, they are a powerful statement about talent, anger and love. Superb!

Awards & Rankings

21
#21 Most Discussed Album of 2006

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
72

Generally favorable reviews - based on 18 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 14 out of 18
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 18
  3. Negative: 1 out of 18
  1. Entertainment Weekly
    100
    Finally, they put their music where their opinionated mouths are.
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  2. Amazon.com
    70
    On first listen, Taking the Long Way seems too somber--in need of a bit of levity and more than a couple of uptempo songs (like the sexy, '60s-flavored "I Like It") to resonate for the long haul. It also seems to lack the writing quality that Darrell Scott, Patty Griffin, and Bruce Robison brought to Home. But on repeated plays, those concerns dissipate.
    Read full review
  3. Blender
    70
    This album has some of what was missing from Home: fire, ugliness, resentment. [Jun 2006, p.135]
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