CD review: Rascal Flatts 'Changed'

Despite its title, Rascal Flatts' eighth album “Changed” doesn't tinker much with the band's highly polished, country-pop penchant for earnest power ballads, mournful breakup songs and uplifting anthems.

Sure, the contemporary country trio's sound has grown up a bit in the dozen years since Picher-bred guitarist Joe Don Rooney, lead singer Gary LeVox and bassist Jay DeMarcus released their 2000 debut album. Their voices and harmonies have deepened, LeVox has toned down some of the over-the-top vocal gymnastics, and their songwriting and selections have matured.

While the title may suit the Flatts' decision to assume the producer role, along with Dann Huff, of their new album as well as the group's switch to a new label and management, even sharp-eared fans won't discern many real sonic differences on “Changed” that they haven't already heard.

The trio did try out a more down-home, rootsy sound with the buoyant first single, “Banjo,” which has become a top 10 hit and my new favorite Flatts song. But that doesn't mean listeners should expect an Earl Scruggs acolyte picking along on the album's other 10 tracks.

Still, a pretty mandolin accents the tender sentiments of album closer “A Little Home,” which not only features the group's signature pleasing harmonies but also gives each member a vocal spotlight.

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Rooney shares songwriting credit with Nathan Chapman and his skillful guitar work takes the starring role on the romantic vow “Sunrise.” LeVox co-wrote the fervent title track, arguably the band's most overtly religious song since its 2004 smash “Bless the Broken Road,” and DeMarcus' pen is apparent on the wistful piano ballad “Let It Hurt.”

Unfortunately, the Flatts seem to have spent a bit too much time with Justin “Baby Baby Baby” Bieber, as repetitive lyrics are an unfortunate theme on “Changed,” with “Hot in Here,” “Lovin' Me” and especially “She's Leaving” all sharing this annoying trait.