Refreshing, fluent, and mature, country trio Lady Antebellum’s self-titled debut album qualifies itself as a top country album thanks to the brilliant combination of vocalists Hillary Scott and Charles Kelley along with multi-instrumentalist Dave Haywood.

The name Lady Antebellum provides an image of the graceful old South, but the trio proves its style to be as contemporary as country music can get by beautifully blending traditional country elements with a deep rock sound throughout the album.

As with Sugarland and Little Big Town—two other country groups made up of both men and women vocalists—the album’s emphasis is placed on self-empowerment through upbeat rhythms and soothing harmonies.

The theme of self-empowerment is pertinent throughout the majority of the album’s songs. In their first single titled Love Don’t Live Here Anymore, the two sing: “I’ve been doin’ fine without you, forgettin’ all the love we once knew, and girl I ain’t the one who slammed that door,” demonstrating this ever-present notion of freedom in this album.

Although similar in overall style, the singing/songwriting trio’s unique vocal arrangement sets them apart from other current country artists; Kelley’s sound, deep and soulful, leads on several songs, while Scott shines on other tracks such as the defiant “Long Gone” and the romantic “Can’t Take My Eyes off You.”

The two collaborate on “Love Don’t Live Here”; however, they usually split the lead vocals amongst themselves while the other sings a backup harmony; Kelley’s powerful vocals dominate several tracks, while Scott shines on the defiant “Long Gone” and the romantic “Can’t Take My Eyes off You.”

While this is their first album under Nashville Records, Lady Antebellum has already gained plenty of experience. They were the opening act on Martina McBride’s 2008 arena tour and opened shows for country stars such as Kenny Chesney, Carrie Underwood, Tim McGraw, Alan Jackson, Taylor Swift, Josh Turner, Phil Vassar, Rodney Atkins and Little Big Town.

Hannah Muenzberg, staff writer