Beautiful Mess, The Story of Diamond Rio

I've heard the song many times and fell in love with the meaning behind the tune, so what better book to choose for my first review for than this, right?

Publisher Description says: "What made it possible for Diamond Rio to weather the storms inherent in the fickle world of fame and fortune and go more than two decades without a single lineup change? Any reader in search of transparency and a behind-the-scenes look into the life of the band as a unit as well as the individual lives of the players and singers will be well satisfied. Can true loyalty exist within the competitive, seemingly unforgiving music industry? In A Beautiful Mess, Marty Roe, Dan Truman, Jimmy Olander, Brian Prout, Gene Johnson, and Dana Williams each has an entire chapter devoted to his personal and professional life. A Beautiful Mess is a wild ride from the edge of disaster and a little-known secret to an ongoing heart-warming revival."

But you know what I think? Well I'm going to tell you anyways smartypants! I think while it's a nice story about a fabulous band, it's sort of a yawn. Yeah guys, I need to be honest here and tell you I found it a tad slow. Even so, its very sweet and humble and for those of you who love Marty, Dan, Jimmy, Brian, Gene, & Dana - you'll enjoy the fact that they each have their own chapter. The story begins during an uneasy time for the band, not so long ago, when the members needed to face their lead singer with the fact that his vocals were nowhere near what they should be for their caliber of celebrity. But they banded together (no pun intended!) and faced the issue as a family, which I find admirable. Especially when so many musicians out there seem to be eager to branch out as solo artists the minute the band gets noticed. (I'm talking to you Black Eyed Peas. But I still love you Fergie!)

I don't want to say the story of Diamond Rio felt contrived, but I did feel it was guarded, each detail carefully thought about before it was shared. Perhaps that is a good thing, but I didn't find myself fully engaged or riveted.

All in all, I give it 3 out of 5 stars, and I would recommend it only for the for the diehard country music lover in your life. Maybe paired with a CD, though, for good measure.

That's my review and I'm stickin' to it. ;)

What the guys lack in book writing skills, they make up for in abundance in the music studio: