There are a couple of missteps, however, like "Weeping," wherein Groban sounds restrained in the presence of the gospel choir, as well as on his rendition of the Charlie Chaplin song, "Smile," which is just unsuited to his vocal style. Glitches aside, though, it's an exemplary collection.
Whether this release will give Groban's career a boost overseas is debatable. There's certainly a market for his style of music — and he's probably the best currently around — but it's a crowded field. His profile over here in the UK is arguably as high as it's ever been, coming off the back of appearances at the Classical Brit Awards, his Royal Albert Hall performances of Chess and Nelson Mandelas 90th Birthday concert; so if he's going to make it, then this will be the time.
Article comments
1 - Britt
Very good review. But there is no gospel choir in the song 'Weeping.'
2 - Harriet C.
There IS a gospel choir on "Weeping." It's from Soweto, South Africa, and is named the Soweto Gospel Choir. Also singing with Josh and the choir on this track is the very famous African singer, Vusi Mahlasela.
3 - Stuart A Hamilton
Thanks, Harriet. Indeed there is, on this live performance.
4 - Susan
Odd, Weeping in one of my top two favorites, the other being Anthem.
5 - Al Divo
It's official, Josh Groban makes Iggy Pop sound like Tina Turner on a Saturday night. Groban is the best singer in the world. Nice review.
6 - Britt
If your talking about Ladysmith Black Mambazo they sing on weeping, but their more of an a capella singing group than a gospel choir.... and yes there is a difference. That is what I was referencing to anyways. And I completely agree, Josh sounds AMAZING live!!!! It is so rare for someone to sound even better live than they do on their studio albums
7 - Mr H
As mentioned above it's the Soweto Gospel Choir.
8 - Britt
ok relax...
I'm glad he chose to release this in Europe that was an excellent idea and will definitely boost his career over in Europe. Can't wait for Chess next year!!!
9 - Katie
Very nice review, however Josh himself has said that he doesn't consider this a "Best Of" album. Instead it's an opportunity for him to give people not familiar with his music a taste of what he's about, It represents his journey so-far and he doesn't feel like it's a 'best of' as there's still so much left to do.
The album contains some of his hand-picked favorites that will give people who don't know him an opportunity to get to know him before the next album comes out.
The CD is well worth it for "Anthem" alone.