Let me begin here by pointing out that I do love Christine Lavin and have effusively stated that in previous reviews to the point of mockery by friends and readers alike. Having covered myself with this statement (I hope!), I must admit that this CD did not send me into the state of idol-worship to which I have become accustomed.

Ahh! Even admitting this to myself caused great consternation, yet now I must admit it to all of you as well.

But here is the problem as I see it: repetition. Too many of these songs have appeared on previous albums, and while a new verse has been added here and there, it isn't enough to justify a re-exploration. Like several of Christine's other albums, this one was recorded live (at the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center) and the feedback from the audience is sometimes the only distinguishing difference between this and her last few CDs.

"What Was I Thinking" has become a catch-phrase around my house, but a bit about Martha Stewart doesn't add so much that I need it on CD for the third time. "Wind Chimes" was funny the first time, mainly because of the element of surprise when it turns out to be a diss. Second time around, no surprise, no appeal. It continues this way through "You Look Pretty Good for Your Age" and "Strangers Talk to Me." "The Tacobel Canon" is funny and clever, sort of a new twist on an old classic -- and new to me, although it did appear on her last album, The Runaway Christmas Tree.

But! There are some bright points. "Planet X" attempts to prove the legitimacy of Pluto's claim to planethood, despite swirling controversy in the scientific world. In the title song "Sometimes Mother Really Does Know Best," we witness a dispute between a mother and daughter about vanity, where the audience gets to choose whether or not the younger can get body piercings if the elder has a facelift. And to all of us who were never chosen for teams in gym class, "Ballad of a Ballgame" tells of our enduring pain. And occasional victory.

The audience interaction is terrific as always. The explanation to "The Legal Ramifications of a Crackerjack Vendor Who Works in Yankee Stadium" is actually funnier than the song itself. Following "Planet X," we enjoy several minutes of a contest ending in a "science prize," but I'm not telling whether it's Bernice, Carol or the audience as a whole who wins.

Now, if all of these songs are unfamiliar to you, by all means, buy this CD! But if, like me, you can sing all the words and even know where the audience response goes, maybe hold off for the next one.

In the meantime, though, go to your music store, click online, trade with friends, do whatever you must do to pick up every last CD Christine has previously recorded.

[ visit Christine Lavin's website ]