Sheryl Crow- There Goes the Neighbourhood

This single was released in 1998, shortly after her smash hit My Favourite Mistake. In fact, I mainly bought this single for the acoustic B-side version of Favourite Mistake.

So, what about There Goes the Neighborhood itself then? Well, in my opinion it is overblown pop cheese with all of the pop smoke and mirrors trying to hide a fundamentally bland song. Ouch! Also, the song gets quieter for each chorus, which is very strange. For me, the only thing that saves it are the obscurely non-sensical lyrics (I'm a sucker for confusing lyrics for some strange reason!). It seems like those lyrics are hardly a fluke, though, since all of the songs on this single have wonderfully vivid yet obscure lyrics.

Straight to the Moon is more of the same, but actually a lot better in my book. The groove and hooks are a lot catchier, and the song is hiding behind a lot less pop glitter.

Finally, the acoustic version of My Favourite Mistake is fantastic. The rawness gives the song a more honest feel, and enhances Sheryl's lyrical variety by adding wonderful huskiness to the verses.

Favourite songs

Straight to the Moon, My Favourite Mistake

Would I buy it again?

Ironically, the B-sides put together a compelling case. But in the end, it's more of an enjoyable oddity than a "must have".