'Sun' and sentimentality

The themes of every country album are simple: nostalgia, love and plenty of beer. But Kenny Chesney manages to put a new spin on the same old country boy ideals. Distinctive reggae and rock sounds give When the Sun Goes Down an edge among all those sappy country records. \nThe title track displays Chesney's ever-present beach bum attitude and even features an appearance by Kid Rock protégé Uncle Kracker. The twang of Chesney's guitar is mixed with the ring of a steel drum recalling a night on a Florida beach you hoped would never end. Between that and the escapist attitude of "Outta Here," you'll be ready to pack for Spring Break tomorrow.\nOnce again, memories of the good ol' glory days pervade Chesney's lyrics. He even pays homage to hometown favorite John Mellencamp in "I Go Back." Any kid from a small Midwestern town can definitely identify with his portrayal of life on the outskirts.\nAt some points however, the lyrics become overwhelmingly sentimental i.e. the sickeningly sweet and hard to stomach "Some People Change." \nThe most redeeming aspect of the album is the new college anthem, "Keg in the Closet." It paints the perfect picture of the carefree collegian days we're all cherishing -- or at least should be.