Paula Cole's new album, 'Amen' not on the same par as 'This Fire'

Paula Cole's intimate performance at Portland, Maine's State Theatre in 1997 was my first concert ever, and it still remains my favorite. Even those who didn't fall for the hits "Where Have All the Cowboys Gone" or "I Don't Want To Wait" would have been enthralled by this show. Cole used her voice, her hands, her instruments, and even her feet to deliver an incredible performance that grabbed your emotions and wouldn't let you go. Having seen her incredible talent firsthand, I am especially disappointed in Cole's latest effort, Amen, because I know she can do so much better. Abandoning the intrigue and captivation of her last album, This Fire, her new Amen stumbles through its paltry nine tracks in a failed attempt at being "uplifting."