Greatest Hits Collection (RCA, 2000)

Lorrie Morgan's association with RCA is now over with the swan song being this "greatest hits" plus disc. There are the catchy songs like "We Both Walk, " "Half Enough"and "Something in Red" along with five new songs.

Morgan always has possessed a strong set of chords, turning in readings with a good deal of emotion tossed in without being overwrought. Sometimes the singing is almost too perfect, sacrificing intensity in the process.

What has not served Morgan as well is the failure at times to pick exceptional songs. While many of her hits suit Morgan quite well, the new songs never rise above the mediocre.

But more condemning is the conspicuous absence of such big hits like "Except for Monday," "I Didn't Know My Own Strength," "What Part of No," "Watch Me" and "Five Minutes." Four of them hit number one. To call this a greatest hits collection is not exactly truth in advertising.

Morgan's career has not fared as well in recent years, but this may be more the closing of a chapter than a career. In the future, though, Morgan ought to be more honest.