Since Brad Paisley's 1999 debut, fans have come to expect three things from him: a sly sense of humor, stirring vocals and nimble, impressive guitar work. All three characteristics abound on Paisley's best effort to date, Time Well Wasted. His previous release, Mud on the Tires, was the sort of landmark album nearly every artist has difficulty topping. Not so this time. On Time Well Wasted, Paisley's voice – never overwhelmed by overmixed instruments (a problem dogging many current vocalists) – remains keenly focused. This album reunites Brad with producer Frank Rogers for a 21-track collection sporting 10 selections from Paisley's pen, including first single, Alcohol, the fastest-rising chart single of his career. There's quality material in abundance, heavy on originals and delightfully quirky bonus tracks. Guest shots from both Dolly Parton and Alan Jackson show that Paisley's work has earned respect from disparate corners of the country scene, a respect that's amply justified by Time Well Wasted.

The songs range from roadhouse twang-o-ramas (Alcohol, You Need a Man Around Here), well-rendered sentimental ballads (Waitin' on a Woman, Out in the Parkin' Lot with labelmate Alan Jackson) and radio-ready romance (The World, She's Everything). But Paisley is stylistically adventurous and a picking fiend on cuts like I'll Take You Back and the jaw-dropping instrumental Time Warp. He's also a superb songwriter capable of looking at familiar themes from different angles on cuts like Flowers and his duet with Dolly Parton When I Get Where I'm Going. As always, Paisley is a top-notch humorist: check out Cornography with Grand Ole Opry members George Jones, Little Jimmy Dickens, Bill Anderson and Parton. Paisley's singing is relaxed and assured. These are welcome subtle improvements, but what makes Time Well Wasted Paisley's best record yet is the writing. Song for song, this is his best set of tunes, whether it's one of his ten originals or the sharply selected professionally written numbers that round out the album.

Brad Paisley consistently turns out some of the most diverse and creative albums in mainstream country music. With four #1 hits, nine consecutive Top 5 singles, and more than five million albums sold, he has emerged as one of country music’s most popular and respected young talents, earning critical acclaim on disc and in concert, both of which showcase his top-flight guitar work, as well as a keen sense of songwriting and a performance style infused with Paisley's musical blend of heart and humor. Each of his prior albums gained stature with repetition, but Time Well Wasted is not only richer than his first three records, it's more gripping upon its first play. Paisley couldn't have chosen a better title for his album. Listening to the set is definitely time well wasted. A totally satisfying record on every level.

02.09.2005