George Michael has garnered more notoriety for his personal life than for his music in recent years, yet despite the headlines he remains an exceptional artist. His voice is among the purest in the modern pop era. Twenty Five, a new compilation of hits and newer tracks, serves as a sufficient, albeit not comprehensive, sampler of the versatility and sophistication that underscore his talent.
Released on the heels of a much-anticipated North American tour announcement, the set reflects all phases of a career spanning a quarter century, hence the album title. Early hits with Wham! mix among solo works and various duets. Six tracks previously unreleased in North America – the best of which is a duet with Mary J. Blige on the Stevie Wonder classic, “As” – round out the considerable 29-song tracklisting.
In highlighting all stages of George Michael’s career thus far, the cumulative impression is one of a gifted artist often overshadowed and underrated by his enigmatic image. Reconsidering the context of their respective eras and original albums though, several of these songs, particularly “A Different Corner” and “One More Try,” reveal thematic depth and maturity seldom expressed by his pop contemporaries (Prince being the most obvious exception). As evidenced by later introspective ballads like “Jesus To A Child,” “Older,” and “John And Elvis Are Dead,” Michael’s youthful sophistication evolved over time to yield songs of even more refinement and distinction.
Of course, not all of Michael’s work bears such lyrical contemplation or musical nuance; nor does it always require them. “Too Funky” and “Faith,” for instance, bask in their licentious glory, drawing more on raw emotion and groove than on concentrated songwriting. “Everything She Wants” still sounds modern and hip with its thick and synthesized beats. And “Feeling Good,” a recent cover that recalls its former rendition by Nina Simone, features Michael crooning over a billowing brass romp.
As with any retrospective compilation, though, omissions often stand out as much as what ultimately make the final cut. Songs like “I Want Your Sex,” “Monkey,” and “I Knew You Were Waiting For Me” – all number one hits – are conspicuously absent here. Also missing is Michael’s towering performance of “Somebody To Love,” recorded at the Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert and released on the EP, Five Live.
Even keeping such exclusions in mind, though, Twenty Five still makes for a respectable collection and, by extension, a welcome preview for George Michael’s long-awaited return to the North American concert stage.
![Chicago: Live in Concert [Blu-ray] Starring Robert Lamm, Lee Loughnane, James Pankow, et al. (Nov 1, 2011)](http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/5198vHFv5UL._AA115_.jpg)
Article comments
1 - Glen Boyd
See, and I thought this was an album of new material, but at least now I understand the title a bit better. I mean, like he is ever going to see 25 again right? Not that I should talk of course...
He's playing here on the tour (at WAMU, which is the same venue I paid through the nose to see Neil Young at last year).
I doubt I'll be buying any tix for this. But as always, great review Mr. Gibson.
-Glen
2 - Donald Gibson
Yeah, I wanted to clarify the title because it confused me at first too, especially given that there are 29 tracks in the set.
I got my concert tickets the other day, opting for the 2nd-tier priced seats, which turned out rather well (front row of the balcony next to the stage). He's one of the few big stars I've never seen in concert, so I'm looking forward to this one.
- Donald
3 - Josh Hathaway
Well done, Donald. I'm not a Michael fan and that's not likely to change but you've done a fine job with your review.
4 - Donald Gibson
Thanks for the kind words, Josh. I appreciate it.
- Donald
5 - Julie Salerno
Mr. Gibson ~ What a wonderful review for this exceptional artist. What is even better then the release of his 25 cd, is the anticipation of him touring the states. Of course, I have 6 tickets to his up-coming shows. His live performances are incredible, he is a one man music machine.
His recent Europeon tour took him to 12 countries, selling out stadiums and arenas for over 80 shows in minutes; even breaking U2's record in two cities.
In all, he performed for over 1.5 million people. Once again, thank you for a great review!
6 - Janet Aldorisio
Mr. Gibson,thank you for such a perceptive review. People not familiar with the depth and variety of George's work definitely underrate him. And not only does he have a voice that could melt butter, but he also writes his own material (both lyrics and music) and produces all of his work - to perfection. And I am always impressed with the range and diversity of his music. I'm sorry if you are disappointed with some of the songs not included; given the abundance of his repertoire, I'm sure selecting those to be included was a difficult choice. Enjoy the CD and I hope you have tickets to his concert. I'm in Boston and have great seats! Thank you again.
7 - Lisa Damian
Great review. I haven't listened to George Michael in quite some time, but it sounds as if this might be a good CD to add to the collection.
My favorite appearance of late is his guest appearances on the TV show "Eli Stone."
8 - WFK
I saw him in Vegas this past weekend. It was absolutely brilliant. Flawless voice, great performances, stunning visuals. And he's still hot. ;-)