What makes Taking the Long Way by The Chicks notable?

The album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart and won five Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year, highlighting its critical acclaim. Notably, 'Not Ready to Make Nice' became an anthem for defiance against censorship and was praised for addressing the backlash the group faced following their political statements. Taking the Long Way marks The Chicks' seventh studio album and their first release after the controversy surrounding lead singer Natalie Maines' criticism of President George W. Bush in 2003. This album comes four years after their previous project, Home, and showcases a significant evolution in their sound and lyrical approach as they navigate through themes of betrayal and resilience.

Who is Taking the Long Way for?

Taking the Long Way works well if you're into steady pacing with reflective peaks, poignant themes of personal resilience and for introspective road trips.

How many songs are on Taking the Long Way?

Taking the Long Way has 15 tracks, running approximately 71 minutes.

Released 20 years ago

Taking the Long Way

The Chicks · 2006

71 min · 15 tracks · country music

A bold fusion of country and pop that confronts personal and political struggles with raw honesty.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Not Ready to Make Nice — This track directly addresses the fallout from the group's earlier political comments, showcasing their emotional struggle and determination to stand by their beliefs.
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The Long Way Around — The title track encapsulates the themes of self-discovery and perseverance while blending elements of folk and country in a reflective narrative.
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Easy Silence — This song's haunting melody complements its introspective lyrics about seeking peace amid chaos, reflecting the band's growth over time.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

63 /100

Treeline

Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

The album combines personal themes with polished production, making it both engaging and reflective.

What we noticed

The first three tracks establish a strong thematic arc, with 'Not Ready to Make Nice' serving as a pivotal emotional centerpiece.
Several songs feature layered harmonies and intricate instrumentation, blending traditional country elements with pop sensibilities.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady pacing with reflective peaks
poignant themes of personal resilience
for introspective road trips
captivating storytelling throughout journey

Maybe skip if you

seeking quick, upbeat tracks
prefer standalone singles over albums

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This album marked a significant return and established renewed recognition after controversy.
Career context: Taking the Long Way marks The Chicks' seventh studio album and their first release after the controversy surrounding lead singer Natalie Maines' criticism of President George W. Bush in 2003. This album comes four years after their previous project, Home, and showcases a significant evolution in their sound and lyrical approach as they navigate through themes of betrayal and resilience.
Stylistic neighbors: Little Big Town· Pistol Annies· Kacey Musgraves