Always Never the Same

The problem with George Strait is this: His albums are so consistently good that a fine effort like Always Never the Same runs the risk of getting overlooked simply because it's not a masterwork like 1996's Blue Clear Sky (to pick but one). Of course, we should wish that all artists could have such a problem. With his smooth, emotive voice, George Strait continues to show the rest of the pack how country music can (and should) be done. Always Never the Same, like the rest of his albums, never panders to the latest trend that happens to be sweeping Nashville at the time. Strait has always remained true to his country roots, and here they are in evidence once again. Songs like "Meanwhile," "What Do You Say to That," "That's the Truth," and the title track are classic Strait songs, building on the 20 years of success he's had as a pure neo-traditionalist. Always Never the Same doesn't offer anything new from George Strait, just the same great voice put to work singing solid songs in a pure country style. ~ Martin Monkman, All Music Guide