Customer Reviews

Blessing in Disguise

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(2)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

The first time that I heard Annie Haslam, was in the CD "Tribute to Yes - A view from the Southside of Sky". She sang with Steve Howe. Ever since I was impassioned by angel's voice that she has. To leave of that day, I began to accompany its career, besides in Renaissence. In that album, in particular, Annie shows because it deserved my five stars. Hear "Pool of Tears" or "In another Life" and if by chance not to agree, also hears the album "Still Life". Annie has a voice that speaks direct to the heart, sweet and melodious. I believe that as well as me, when hearing those cds, you will want to buy all the other albums of her. If really you like she, and want to talks on Annie Haslam, or music in general, writes to me. Enjoy it.

Having known and loved Renaissance's music for quite some time, I was uncertain what to expect from Annie on her own. I shouldn't have worried. Beauty, feeling, her amazing voice, everything is still there. The music is a little less classical/folk-influenced and more diverse. "Love Lies Love Dies" annoys me a little.. probably because the word "love" pops up in almost every line. The same is true of "A New Life" - possibly the most cliched song Annie has ever done. But these are minor complaints. When you're in the right mood, this music is simply perfect.

This album should have been called Renaissance in Disguise. I only bought this because I love Renaissance (until they betrayed fans with disco/pop) so I thought I would give it a try. This in no way resembles Renaissance other than the fact that the lead singer went solo. There is no doubt Annie has an angelic voice but the music behind her songs has no depth and is mediocre at best. I agree with another critic's label of elevator music. I listened to the first few tracks hoping they would have more substance but they were so shallow I started skipping to the next track before one was finished. The only songs that I can actually listen to the whole track are ones written by proven talented composers: "Love Lies, Love Dies" by Michael Dumford and "The Sweetest Kiss", an arrangement of "Pavane" written by the classical composer Faure. If you simply love Annie's voice, you'll love this album. If you want some really special music enhanced with her voice, you will be greatly disappointed. Some say she is New Age, but I beg to differ. She is nothing like Enya or Loreena McKennitt who are not only superb singers, but also superb instrumental composers.

This was one of the biggest disappointments in my music buying history. The first track is acapella which proves she can sing, but we already knew that; can we have some real rock music please! Without rock influences around her Annie drifted into some kind of new age lounge act. It sounds like elevator music. There are about 3 songs I liked which is why I gave it 2 stars.I have never been able to listen to the whole CD in one sitting since I bought it. The word Renaissance on the cover is misleading. That is not what you will get here.

Annie has always had an angelic voice,is still fabulous,but who are the other members of this "Renaissance"(it is actually credited to Annie Haslam's Renaissance,not as a pure solo effort. While her voice soars,is soothing and this makes for a great meditational piece of music,the musical backing lacks what vintage Renaissance had(chops I guess are out of style). This is more new agey than prog,which is good and bad (for old Renaissance fans).She was never a writer;I don't think she plays any instruments,and I don't see any songwriting credit on this (my copy is a promo). So, who is really behind all this ?

Her range and beauty of tone is unrivalled. A major talent that should be releasing MORE albums. Any collection from Renaissance to this solo album clearly showcases her amazing abilities and achievements. We all would love to hear this gorgeous voice more often.

Having been very UNimpressed with Annie's second solo album released in 1989, I was pleasantly surprised by this third offering. Her voice, of course, is as perfect as ever and the songs are more varied and better arranged than previous albums. Best songs: Blessing in Disguise; Love Lies, Love Dies; A New Life.