Albert and Gage

Albert and Gage

Cry Love (MoonHouse)

Over the course of nearly 10 years and five releases as a duo, Christine Albert and Chris Gage have developed quite a fan base among lovers of Texas music. Cry Love is sure to keep that audience satisfied as it keeps their professional demeanor and unquestionable musical talents at the fore. As a whole, the disc is a paean to their relationship. When they sing of love, it's obvious they're addressing each other as much as the listener. That said, the overly mushy sentiment is a little hard to take. Following the stereotypical country pop of "But I Love You" with a treacle-filled take of Mickey Newbury's "I Still Love You (After All These Years)" is enough to make your teeth hurt. Then there's the title track, a cover from John Hiatt's songbook, which lacks the required deep soul, something Albert's clear vocals have always been devoid of, to make it palatable. With another married couple providing the rhythm section, Lisa Pankratz on drums and Brad Fordham on bass, Albert and Gage have created quite a lovefest; one that will enthrall the already converted. Those with more discriminating taste might want to go back to their Carpenters records.