The title of Carlene Carter's first release in over a decade points to her living through the deaths, in stunningly swift succession over a nine-month period in 2003, of long-time partner Howie Epstein, mother June Carter, stepfather Johnny Cash, and sister Rosey. But it could just as easily refer to the quality of what's within, because musically speaking, Carter sounds as strong as she's ever been-stronger. Carter's stock in trade, particularly during her heyday in the early '90s when mainstream country radio was, for a brief time, accommodating to artists of her ilk, was a beguiling mix of country and poppy rock that was equal parts buoyant and twangy. Stronger is stuffed to the gills with more of the same, full of lightning fluid guitar runs, hooky turns, soaring choruses and Carter's own edgy growl, along with occasional detours through slowdowns like the Carter Family echo of "To Change Your Heart." A magnificent, and welcome, return.

-Harp Magazine, March/April 2008