Fame doesn’t change a homespun “Mississippi Girl.” Hill salutes her man (“The Lucky One”) and couples who battle their way through life’s struggles (“You Stay With Me”). She tells nations to put aside differences and learn to love on “We’ve Got Nothing But Love to Prove” (“What if no one would kill for their religion/What if no one had to go to war”). “Wish for You” imagines a beautiful, laid-back world full of love and divine oversight as the singer prays it would become reality for a loved one. A wife forgives her mate’s transgressions, but …
The singer needs to develop self-respect and administer a dose of tough love on “If You Ask.” The joy of “Sunshine and Summertime” includes “ice-cold Coronas” and sexy people “showin’ what they got.” A desperate housewife calls it quits (“I Ain’t Gonna Take It Anymore”), while a lonely lady makes a lustful proposition (“I Want You”). Drinking beer is just part of teen life on “Stealing Kisses.” Although a cautionary tale of sorts, the cynical “Dearly Beloved” takes an unflattering look at nuptials.
Fireflies provides flickers of light, but several tracks are either mournfully disenchanted with marriage or insolently pessimistic about it. A cheap fling and brief nods to alcohol also spoil an otherwise sweet effort.
