Disco de Anne Murray: “What a Wonderful World”

Descripción (en inglés) :

Personnel includes: Anne Murray (vocals); Tommy West (vocals, organ, keyboards); Dawn Lanstroth (vocals); Aidan Mason (acoustic, electric, slide & classical guitars); Michael "Pepi" Francis (acoustic & electric guitars, mandolin); Marie Berard, Adele Armin (violin); Steven Dann (viola); Richard Armin (cello); Vernon Dorge (soprano & alto saxophones); Doug Riley (piano, organ); Steve Sexton (organ, keyboards); Brian Barlow (vibraphone, marimba, percussion); Peter Beakney (fretted & fretless basses); Peter Cardinali (bass); Barry Keane, Gary Craig (drums, percussion); Tuka Matthews, Amy Sky, Dawn Cumberbatch (background vocals). <p>Recorded at Metalworks Studios, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada. <p>WHAT A WONDERFUL WORLD was originally released as a two-CD set of spirituals and inspirational pop songs in 1999. The 2008 edition cuts the selection from 26 to 14 songs, eliminating most of the classic gospel hymns and focusing primarily on Anne Murray's sweet-toned easy-listening versions of stalwart pop tunes like the Beatles' "Let It Be," Jackie DeShannon's "Put A Little Love In Your Heart," and Simon and Garfunkel's "Bridge Over Troubled Water." The elimination of most of the straight gospel material (cut down to a handful of songs in the disc's second half, including "Amazing Grace," "The Old Rugged Cross," and "How Great Thou Art") brings the set more in line with Murray's usual secular releases, which have a similar focus on well-known pop covers.

Anne Murray's pipes are in great working condition on this new CD. Not only are the songs inspirational, but Anne is also an inspiration to all other "older" singers. Over the past decade, Anne has diversified her recording and strayed away from the formulaic same-sound-as-the-last-CD that perpetuates so many younger singers CDs (Shania Twain, Celine Dion, Mariah Carey to name a few). The result is confirmation of her status not only as a great singer but one with artistic integrity. Though many songs on this CD are of the religious variety, there are plenty more contemporary tracks here to satisfy all - including one of the best tracks off of her previous self-titled studio album - "The Other Side" (hopefully the second single). "Let There Be Love" and "Elijah" will please her younger fans. Classy and confident. Good show Anne.

A long-time fan of Anne Murray, I was naturally delighted to see this 2 CD set appear. As someone homebound by illness, I've played it frequently to keep up my spirits and keep down the self-pity. I originally bought it for the familiar songs, such as the title tune. I find, however, that I'm even fonder of the new (to me at least) songs. "Elijah" rocks. "The Other Side" carries an important message in its memorable lyrics and melody. If you're a fan of Miss Murray's or songs of inspiration, you'll find this CD money well spent.

Anne's voice just keeps getting better and better! This album combines tender hymns and upbeat standards. The arrangements are simple and tasteful in that great Anne Murray style. "Song of Bernadette" is one of Anne's finest performances to date. Once again she proves that she is still the best female vocalist in the world! Buy this album!

I've long been a fan of Anne Murray's music, but had not listened to any of her work in many years. When I saw the ad of TV for this CD, I had to have it. It is glorious! Her best work ever. My father-in-law keeps borrowing it! Fantastic work, a keeper!