The Chase

by Stephen Thomas Erlewine The Chase is Garth Brooks' most ambitious and personal album. Not coincidentally, it is one of his least popular releases, selling about half of what the previous Ropin' the Wind had. But in its own way, The Chase is more rewarding and deeper than Ropin' the Wind . That's partially due to Brooks' naked ambition; not only does he record "We Shall Be Free" with a gospel choir, but he tackles deeper social and personal issues than he has before. However, the true key to the album is Brooks' conviction; even when his musical experiments don't quite work, it's easy to admire and respect his ambition. Although there are light moments like "Night Rider's Lament" and a cover of Little Feat 's "Dixie Chicken," The Chase is a more somber, reflective record than his previous three albums; but given a bit of a time, it's as satisfying as anything he's ever recorded.