Search - Rod Stewart :: Great American Songbook Collection

Dan A. from CARRIZOZO, NM
Reviewed on 11/26/2006...

This is a special 2 disk album with Volume IV included. HCCD disks, enjoy!

Even if you don't previously know Rod Stewart....

Grady Harp | Los Angeles, CA United States | 06/20/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Ever happen along a collection of songs that bring back memories all the way back to childhood and through the how-ever-many-years that follow? Songs that just make you breathe dseply, smile, tear up, and just sit back and enjoy the special genius of American songwriters? Well, this collection fits every corner of the construct.



Not familiar with his previous style of singing made this listener even more aware of how sensitively sung are these oldies but goodies. Stewart's voice is high tenor to almost mezzo-soprano at times and that enhances his presentation. The songs range from Cole Porter to Gershwin to Rodgers and Hart and so many more. Stewart pays attention to the 'verse' of each song - a fact that very few singers take the time to do - and that verse is often a surprising adjunct to the 'chorus' that follows it is so well known that it is tempting to sing along. His interpretations are clearly his own and word changes are made to update some of the real oldies, but never does he allow his superimpositions to hamper the composers' intended messages.



Stewart is joined in duets by such luminaries as Queen Latifah, Cher, Eric Clapton, Bette Midler, and Dolly Parton and the result is fun and adds a bit a variation to the recital. The orchestral arrangements are excellent and the recording itself is superb. This is a wonderful bit of nostalgia exceedingly well performed. Perfect for a long car trip and just an easy afternoon around the house. Highly recommended Grady Harp, June 05"