Who knew that the Eagles can swing?
Michael Bublé answers that question and more on Crazy Love, his first album in two and a half years. The Canadian crooner has established himself as a first-class vocalist who brings the Great American Songbook to younger generations. At times it seems as if he was born in the wrong era, that he should have been a member of the Rat Pack. But he has one foot set firmly in contemporary music, having recorded both new material and reworked jazz covers of rock songs. Like his previous albums, Crazy Love contains both standards and modern songs, proving that Bublé can handle both with ease.
Standout cuts include "All of Me," with Bublé belting out the lyrics with the confidence of a seasoned pro. "You're Nobody Till Somebody Loves You" also receives a traditional treatment, while his vocals on "Stardust" are exquisite (the addition of a capella group Naturally 7, however, was superfluous—such a delicate tune deserves a minimal arrangement). It takes courage to cover "Georgia on My Mind," as Ray Charles' bluesy rendition has become the standard. Still, Bublé's performance stands on its own; he clearly considers every word he sings.
Crazy Love also marks Bublé's welcome attempt to expand his range, mostly to positive effect. Electric guitars accent his enjoyable cover of the Eagle's "Heartache Tonight," but the majority of the song skews toward big band jazz. It's as fun a mashup as his previous version of Queen's "Crazy Little Thing Called Love." Retro soul and blues group Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings make an appearance, collaborating with Bublé on "Baby (You've Got What It Takes)." He and Jones engage in spirited vocal repartee, with both parties sounding like they had a fantastic time during the recording session. Canadian singer/songwriter Ron Sexsmith also guests on "Whatever It Takes," Bublé's cover of Sexsmith's 1995 tune. The duo's voices blend together beautifully, and the song should introduce Sexmith's music to a wider audience. 80s music fans should approve of his interpretation of Billy Vera and the Beaters' "At This Moment"--he manages to bring out the blues elements of the pop-rock classic.
Article comments
1 - Rita Weisburgh
Love the new CD. I like the feel of this one, it is a good mix of songs and Michael's voice has matured with his music. Love it
2 - Bobby Major
Enjoyed the review. I have not listened to the album yet, but will. I agree that Michael has not found his own unique spot yet. He has done some really good stuff but in my opinion he stills need to get inside the lyrics more and maybe a change of producers would be the answer but I believe he has tried a few different producers already. However, I am not sure about leaving David Foster, he is still the best there is! The answer for Michael might be bring in Diana Krall and her band. I think if Diana would do it, the results would have a potential for greatness.
3 - chris esmond
I've never heard Michael Buble, but the day I do is coming closer, I reckon...
One small point though: 'Whatever It Takes', the Ron Sexsmith song on this album is from Ron's 'Retriever' album of 2006, not 1995!
4 - Kit O'Toole
Thanks, everyone, for your comments!
@Chris: According to All Music Guide, Sexsmith may have performed the song in 2006, but wrote it earlier.
5 - Christine
Thanks so much for writing this positive article about Michael. I live him so much! My husband and I have seen him twice in concert and it was the best ever! Can't wait for his next tour!
6 - chris esmond
Hi Kit,
I was wrong about the Date of the Ron Sexsmith song, it was on his 'Retriever' album of 2004, not 2006!
Doubt very much that he wrote it as early as '95 though, as that was when his first major cd came out.
I know, I'll ask him via his website (he makes himself very available there).
7 - Kit O'Toole
Cool, thanks Chris. I know I didn't pluck that date out of nowhere. I'm looking forward to delving more into his catalog at any rate.
8 - TN
Thoughtful review. I saw Michael Buble at the Paramount Theater in Seattle at the end of his last album tour, and he was the best live performer I've seen - he made an amazing connection with his audience - it was a truly magical evening.