Outside In [Import]

Russell Watson | Format: Audio CD

Product Details

• Audio CD (January 6, 2009)
• Number of Discs: 1
• Format: Import
• Label: 101 DISTRIBUTION
• ASIN: B000W9CJ2G
• Average Customer Review: 4.9 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (16 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #29,272 in Music (See Top 100 in Music)

Editorial Reviews

2007 release, a crossover collection of popular music and classical songs that really show off Russell Watson's incredible versatility and range. Featuring classical favorites, Pop standards and a 2007 recording of 'Nessun Dorma' in honor of the late Pavarotti. 14 tracks including 'La Califfa', 'Have I Told You Lately That I Love You?', 'Love On The Rocks' and more. Universal.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

43 of 44 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars He is back!, December 9, 2007

By 

N. Mendes (Pawtucket, RI USA) - See all my reviews
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This review is from: Outside In (Audio CD)

This CD is excellent. It may just be the last time Russell sings since he had very invasive surgery through his mouth and radiation therapy on top of that. I'm so glad he worked incredibly hard to prevent the delay in its release. His contemporary songs are melodious. He performs the opera pieces with amazing control and POWER. He blows me away. It's so good to hear him do a new version Nessun Dorma in honor of Pavarotti. He nails it beautifully. During the first verse I actually thought it was Pavarotti singing. Russell is amazing and an inspiration!

24 of 26 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars It's sure it will keep his fans happy., January 29, 2008

By 

tois (France) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Outside In (Audio CD)

Singing star Russell Watson has survived a life threatening illness. This brave and talented million-seller has released this follow up to the lacklustre That's Life.
This time though, he attempts to please all comers with a mixture of the traditional opera that made his name, like his tribute to Pavarotti (Nessun Dorma) and pop, like Richard Marx's "One More Time".
It works, as his voice is being stretched here to his amazing potential, whereas singing Rat Pack tracks was never going to have the emotional resonance that the fans expect. One nice touch is his duet with his old colleague from the singing celebs show, "The Two Of Us", Jocelyn Brown, on a stunning version of "Amazing Grace".
"Have I Told You Lately" has been done better by both Van Morrison and Rod Stewart, although Watson has a good stab. As Christmassy as his "Baby It's Cold Outside" (a duet with Denise Van Outen) sounds, it does not show off 'The Voice' in his full glory.
"Love On The Rocks" also misses the raspy vocals of Neil Diamond. Russell is technically perfect but when you tackle a song like this synonymous with an artist of Diamond's stature, you have to be prepared for comparisons and it's just inferior, compared with Neil's rough and ready version.
Ultimately, it's the Russell Watson of old that sets this CD alight. "Time To Say Goodbye" (with the chanteuse Hayley Westenra) ups the ante on Russell's section, even though Westenra's part is not as emotional as Sarah Brightman's original. Watson, though could break a wine glass with the power displayed here.
However, Watson has hits and misses on both sides of the pop/opera split. For example, while his take on "Have I Told You Lately" is afflicted with a very questionable electric keyboard interlude which takes the shine off an otherwise solid tune, his emotional version of "Nessun Dorma" is one of the highlights of the album.
Like many operatic artists, you can see why Watson attempts pop, but the classical numbers are the ones that will have you reaching for the repeat button.
Overall, Watson has proved that he is capable of dabbling in both pop and opera, and while there are a number of tracks that aren't quite pulled off to their full potential, collaborations with high-calibre vocalists and the sentiment with which he signs make this a solid album, which is sure to delight his fans.
Track listings:

1. La Califfa
2. One More Time
3. Amazing Grace Feat: Jocelyn Brown
4. Have I told You Lately
5. Jill's America
6. On The Street Where You Live
7. Baby Its Cold Feat: Denise Van Outen
8. Unforgettable
9. Love On The Rocks
10. Time To Say Goodbye Feat: Hayley Westenra
11. O Holy Night
12. Adeste Fideles
13. Nessun Dorma

12 of 13 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Outside In is right on, January 24, 2008

By 

Jake D. Huff "Herr Director" (Eugene, OR) - See all my reviews
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This review is from: Outside In (Audio CD)

Russell Watson wanted to send a message to his fans: he loves and appreciates their support. He knew when he started recording this cd that he was in rough shape. But he wanted desperately to finish this recording for his fans. Listening to this cd, you'll hear a broad spectrum of styles and voices - he has many of both. My daughter asked if one song (I Can't Help Falling in Love With You) was actually Elvis. On every track you'll hear heart, courage, and greatness. "The Voice" is strong and incredibly beautiful. This is a great cd. Listen and enjoy.