Billboard, February 7, 2009

ERIN McCARLEY
Love, Save the Empty
Producer: Jamie Kenney
Universal Republic
Release Date: Jan. 27
Before any of her music hit pop radio, singer/songwriter McCarley’s wares were delivered to TV staples “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Ghost Whisperer” and “One Tree Hill,” while the title track is featured in the movie “He’s Just Not That Into You.” At 29 McCarley’s no newbie, coming at her craft sounding smart, with a kind of versatility that few artists are allowed. But Universal Republic promised to leave her alone and let her sell herself. “Empty” is the initial emphasis track, though album opener “Pony (It’s OK)” is more likely to open doors at radio. This is not a single-heavy album; rather an artist to be discovered for her depth.—CT

NICK LACHEY
Patience (3:22)
Producer: not listed
Writers: various
Jive
In late 2006, Brit boy band Take That scored a career-redefining comeback with “Patience,” which spent a month at the top of the singles charts at home and won record of the year at the BRIT Awards. It’s now recast as the first single from Nick Lachey’s third solo album, following his 2006 gold showing “What’s Left of Me” and the No. 6 Billboard Hot 100 title track. His reading is awfully close to the original, but Take That is pretty much an unknown in the United States (having scored just one hit, 1995’s “Back for Good”), so most stateside listeners won’t even know it’s a cover. It’s also a quintessential fit for Lachey’s rep as a master balladeer. His version turns up the guitars a few degrees and chugs with more urgency, while showcasing a vocal that demonstrates the innate control he proved a decade ago as a 98 Degrees lead. While solo white males remain the exception at top 40 radio, Lachey has the advantage of a major label in his corner. “Patience” sounds like the start of a promising new chapter for a deserving interpreter.—CT