Audiences and critics check in on Carrie Underwood's new album, "Denim & Rhinestones."

Carrie Underwood hasn't slowed down since winning American Idol 17 years ago. Denim & Rhinestones, the 8-time Grammy Award winner's latest album, comes nearly four years after her last solo country record, Cry Pretty. It shot to the top of the iTunes rankings rapidly, and with good cause. From start to finish, the album is described as a high-energy production with a nostalgic 90s country flavor. It was a deliberate decision on Underwood's behalf. According to Country Swag, she noted ahead of the album's release, "I really just wanted to produce an album that felt like fun." "This one, I believe, ended up being a more accurate portrayal of who I am as a person and as an artist. We have a number of tunes that may be classified as throwbacks, yet they sound really contemporary. These are internal impulses that work their way out, and I've resolved not to be in the way this time."

Underwood and David Garcia collaborated on the album's production. There are 12 songs on the album, 11 of which were co-written by Underwood with Josh Kear, Hillary Lindsey, Ashley Gorley, and Chris DeStefano. In terms of her mindset when it came to recording the album and truly immersing herself in the wiring process, ""We covered a lot of territory," the star of "Before He Cheats" stated. Hopefully, it will just be enjoyable to listen to. It's the sort of album where you sing into your hairbrush, in your house, in your room, and I believe it'll transfer nicely."

In conjunction with the album's release, Underwood will embark on an eight-month tour. She'll be joined by Jimmie Allen. Meanwhile, fans and reviewers alike can't get enough of the record.