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Review of Kevin McMahon's MIRROR

B. Serena | Indio, CA. | 09/19/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"While Kevin McMahon's debut album, MIRROR, is certainly a collection of many composers, it is a well thought out mix of music that really tells a story. However, before one is treated to the wonderfully executed songs on the CD, you must take a good look at the whole package from the front cover thru to the special suprise under the actual CD, to truly appreciate what class, sincerity and all out effort went into producing this project.I think it will help give one a better insight into who this person is with the beautiful crisp voice, that has just a touch of the "Irish", that is part of his heritage. Also, don't overlook the clever way the actual title of the CD is incorporated into the face of it. Every detail was thought of and well planned.Then once you start listening to each song, a real picture begins to emerge. I felt it was a reflection of the life of someone who is / was looking for that special,lasting, relationship, and has finally found it.Each song is well placed and tells the story in a manner that makes you believe he has lived it. His choice of musical accompanists complements the sensitivity and sentimentality of each number, and does not overpower the voice or the words of the songs. All of the new material is just lovely, and presented with such class and respect for the writers.I especially enjoyed and had nostalgic flashbacks, when he did CRY / CRYING, and DOWNTOWN, but never really listened to the words as closely before. Now they were part of a story and as such had much more meaning.LOVE ME, was another song that gave a warm fuzzy message, and put me right there with Grandpa bringing my attention to the meaning of love that grows deep and strong.While each and every song has it's story and is done with such sincerity, the one that is a must for everyone to hear and digest, is JOHN and FRED. This lighthearted, darling song is one that packs a powerful message about real families, but leaves you with a smile and just shaking your head and saying "YES" that's what a family is.This would not be complete without mentioning Kevin's delicious rendition of DANNY BOY. What Irishman would dedicate the album topt he memory of his parents and not include this number? This is a beautiful rendition that would please his parents, I'm sure.So, buy the album, listen to it while relaxing, or curled up in front of a warm fire and enjoy! You will find you will want to listen to it again and again as something different is realized each time you hear it. Eventually you will also realize that it probably reflects the soul of a pretty special person, who believes in the words, and while it is certainly entertaining, it leaves you wanting to hear more. It certainly did that to me."

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B. Serena | 09/20/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"We need more of this kind of music. Touching, meaningful and soul-lifting in a clear, endearing voice."

"Mirror" Reflects Very Well on Kevin McMahon

John Dodge | Southern California | 09/17/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Although Kevin McMahon has been a fixture in the New York and Los Angeles musical theatre scenes for nearly two decades and has been featured on numerous compilation CDS, he has yet to release a solo CD -- that is, until now. "Mirror," which was released just last week, is an eclectic collection of songs by the actor/singer that will satisfy both his biggest fans and anyone unfamiliar with him who appreciates a soaring tenor voice and songs from the heart.In the accompanying liner notes, McMahon states that the songs are a mirror of himself, leaning a bit to the sentimental. True, there is a great deal of personal emotion in the songs he has chosen, but it never crosses the line into sappiness -- he has found just the right balance which enables every song to stand on its own while collectively providing a deeper picture of the artist.The 12-track CD (which actually features 14 different songs) was expertly produced by David Snyder, who also did all of the arrangements and wrote the song "Waiting For You." McMahon skillfully demonstrates his range (and personal musical interests) by performing everything from American folk to classic rock, from musical theatre to 60's pop, from original pieces to traditional Irish folk. His version of Stevie Wonder's "Lately" is breath-takingly beautiful, punctuated with raw emotion that builds throughout the piece. On "Cry/Crying," he cleverly combines his signature song from the musical FOREVER PLAID (in which he is currently performing with the San Diego company) with the Roy Orbison classic. "John & Fred" by Los Angeles composer Dale Gonyea is a sweet and surprising exploration of contemporary family life. And paying tribute to his strong Irish heritage, his extraordinary and very original version of "Danny Boy" will leave a tear in your eye.Throughout, McMahon's voice soars and takes the listener to wonderful new places. This is an intensely personal project, and we should be very thankful that McMahon has chosen to share his gift with all of us."