This sophomore effort from Carolyn Dawn Johnson is more of a tribute to her unsullied songwriting ability than to her vocal ability. The sassy Canadian co-wrote 11 of the 12 middle-of-the-road tracks and mostly what you'll hear in the first half of the album are fun and playful songs that don't demonstrate the vocal talent Johnson is known to ha...

This sophomore effort from Carolyn Dawn Johnson is more of a tribute to her unsullied songwriting ability than to her vocal ability. The sassy Canadian co-wrote 11 of the 12 middle-of-the-road tracks and mostly what you'll hear in the first half of the album are fun and playful songs that don't demonstrate the vocal talent Johnson is known to have. Dress Rehearsal lacks the enthusiasm 2001's Room With a View so unashamedly articulated. The second half of the album seems to be ballad heavy, with a reserved Johnson sounding a little gray. Unfortunately, Dress Rehearsal is not an overly impressive second attempt and leaves you wanting more from the amiable Johnson. ~ Maria Konicki Dinoia, Rovi