Lying to the Moon And Other Stories (RCA, 1999)

Though she hasn't logged a lot of air time on country radio as a singer, Matraca Berg is a familiar name to most of today's country singers. Berg is one of the most successful country songwriters of the 1990's, writing smashes like "The Wrong Side of Memphis," "Strawberry Wine" and "That Kind of Girl."

Her latest CD is a re-issue of some of her best, but lesser-known, creations from previous albums, ranging from the tender title track and "Back When We Were Beautiful" to the more raucous and sassy "Back In The Saddle," "Baby, Walk On" and "Things You Left Undone." Her songs are not of the Music Row, cookie-cutter variety. They are intelligent, interesting and convey emotions most other Nashville hit makers can't come close to. Berg's singing talents are often overlooked, but her voice is more than adequate, especially when it comes to delivering her own songs.

Country fans looking for more than just a 'catchy tune' will enjoy this excellent showcase of her work.