Joined by his new bride, singer Faith Hill, McGraw credits her love with making him “happier than ever” (“It’s Your Love,” which spent a month as country’s top single). The sweet “You Just Get Better All the Time” sends a similar message. Amicable partings and sacrificial love dominate “Just to See You Smile” and “For a Little While.” “Where the Green Grass Grows” longs for the simple pleasures of rural life, including knowing one’s neighbors and raising children “where the good Lord’s blessed.” The artist struggles to forgive himself and find peace, plagued by memories of the emotional pain he caused others (“One of These Days”).
A philanderer is condemned less for his behavior than for his carelessness (“Ain’t That the Way It Always Ends”).
An extremely positive effort by McGraw. With the one subtle exception noted above, Everywhere‘s down-on-the-farm charm makes it a worthwhile option for fans of this genre.
