Customer Reviews

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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!

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

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.

Wow! I purchased this disc as soon as it came out hoping that it would match or perhaps even exceed his previous ones but my gosh this was beyond all expectations. I've actually worn out a new cd player listening to it. This is the greatest cd I've eved heard. His voice is richer than ever and I LOVE the song selection. It's hard to explain. It's like a giant magnet. The songs are beautiful, inspirational and if you have ever loved (which most of us have) they seem to draw you back through the best memories of those times. Don't deprive youself. This is definitely worth it.

I purchased this CD after reading a review on Amazon.com and was extremely happy with his style.He has a rich, mellow, and haunting voice. I especially enjoy listening to him sing "To All THe Girls I've Loved Before" with Alexander O'Neal.

Russell Watson continues to deliver the goods in his latest release. Great song selection and wonderful singing. He's still got it!

I already owned four CDs of Russell Watson when I purchased this CD. It was even more wonderful than the ones that had made me a fan. I have listened to it countless times and have yet to tire in the slightest. His voice is one of the greatest, and his story is without equal.

Russell Watson demonstrates his versatility in this album. It is a nice blend of styles that shows his ability to handle all kinds of music. I enjoy his popular songs, but especially appreciate his classical interpretations. He truely deserves the title "The Voice." I hope next year he produces a Christmas album.

Russell Watson's voice is heavenly, beautiful, unique, to say the least! Such warmth and passion in every track, whether operatic or pop. I prefer his operatic side but this whole CD is exceptional. It's not 'background' music though - listen carefully to the stunning depth of his voice - you won't be disappointed.

As usual russell watson delivers a beautiful performance. I wish he could have come up with other songs other than the christmas songs towards the end. Is it possible that he may record some songs from Les Miserables? I hope he can come up with a new release this year.I never get tired of listening to his songs.