Customer Reviews

Nature Boy: The Standards Album

5 star:		(16)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(4)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

R&B legend Aaron Neville's return to the recording studio with NATURE BOY finds him mining, as a lot of modern-day pop and R&B artists have done for some time, the Great American songbook. For this project, though, Aaron seems to mine a jazz sound less akin to the World War II era and more to the 1960s, and the tactic, works quite well. Among the musicians onboard for this album are Ry Cooder, Roy Hargrove, Michael Brecker, and jazz drumming great Grady Tate (the latter of whom worked on Wes Montgomery's classic 1967 album A DAY IN THE LIFE).

His version of "Summertime", from Gershwin's great American opera "Porgy And Bess", is one of the best this warhorse has ever received. He also invites his longtime duet partner Linda Ronstadt in for a wonderful rendition of "The Very Thought Of You." And although we've had many fine versions of such classics as "Our Love Is Here To Stay", "Since I Fell For You", and "Come Rain Or Come Shine", Aaron puts his signature mark on those too. In the way these twelve songs have been arranged and performed, they don't seem old, but they retain their timelessness nonetheless. This is easily one of the best such Great American Songbook revival projects out there, and merits the five-star rating.

My wife and I just saw Aaron and his Bros in concert last week and I can say the songs on this album he did were fantastic. You will love every track. It was great to hear Linda and Aaron's voices together again. The music, the lyrics, we play it all the time.

If you ever have a chance to see Aaron or the whole family in person...don't miss it!!

We are Neville Bros fans forever.

I have not always been a fan (although he sings perfectly, he normally sings in a range that's a little high for my personal taste). However, this album has confirmed my interest. The material selection is flawless, and the arrangements are sophisticated, interesting and natural. The Ronstadt pairing works very well. While the album is relaxing, it keeps you very engaged. I highly recommend this album.

This is the most interesting standards record yet. It's absolutely beautiful! Aaron Neville's vocal performances are extraordinary. His interpretations of these simple solid songs are like nothing else you've ever heard. The song selection is great and the new arrangements of these old songs are extremely cool! Especially Summertime and Who Will Buy. Impeccable sounding. This is one of the nicest cd's I've purchased in a long time. Very hip!

Aaron's voice was not over-pitch-corrected. He really sings this way. "a music fan" from PA is incorrect. I'm sorry that he, or she, didn't enjoy the record -- we're all very proud of it.

Rob Mounsey, producer

Over the years, I have been a great fan of Aaron Neville, but I cannot recommend this CD. Sure there are some highlights (Summertime and The Shadow Of Your Smile), but most of the Cd seems to lack emotion.
This Cd is not in the same league as Grand Tour or Tattoed Heart.

Aaron Neville glides his way through sweet dreamy renditions of songs we've heard a million times before. On the surface, it's breezy and beautiful, tastefully produced, yet the album never exhibits any depth of interpretation or emotional nuance, with the exception of "Danny Boy" which benefits greatly from Ry Cooder's haunting guitar work. Dissapointingly, his duet with Linda Ronstadt - who sounds terrific - doesn't create the emotional spark their past pairings have had. Neville's simple approach fits best on a light inventive version of "Who Will Buy?", but the rest whizzes by without much impact, making it "light jazz" ear candy.

First off, Aaron Neville has a beautiful voice, so he gets points for having such a unique voice.

However, I found nearly all of this album "Nature Boy" to be way too slow. This is almost sleep-inducing music.

I've heard a lot of these standards before and they are not usually done this slow. So I would be listening to a familiar song, waiting for it to pick up anytime now, but it never did.

+'s Neville's voice, the selection of familiar songs, Roy Hargrove sounds great as a guest on trumpet/flugelhorn

-'s The whole pace of the album. Just generally too s-l-o-w.

Overall, I'll have to disagree with the majority and say this one's not worth the money.

I buy everything by Aaron Neville but was not prepared for how truly soothing and wonderful this CD is. I first listened to it in the car line waiting to pick my daughter up from school. The music started, and all my tension just drifted out the window. This CD should be a must have for anyone who is stressed out and trying to find a little relaxation. My usual chatty 10 year old was quiet on the ride on home. When asked why, she simply said, "I love this music!!!" Young or old, you will love this soulful CD filled with the beauty of Aaron Neville's one-of-a kind voice. Like me, you won't be able to pick a favorite song either! A bountiful feast for any weary, stressed out soul!

For those who thought Aaron Neville couldn't sing like this: SURPRISE!! The first hint of his "jazzy" style came on his "Grand Tour" CD, when he did "These Foolish Things Remind Me of You."

This album is proof that he can sing ANYTHING he wants to sing. It's a mellow, romantic CD, perfect for candlelit dinners. It also helps mellow me out during the morning commute in rush-hour traffic.