By: Olivia Newton-John Average Rating: Binding: Audio CD Format: Original recording remastered Number of Discs: 1 Release Date: May 07, 2002 Studio: Hip-O Records
Amazon.com: Pop stars never tread on more dangerous turf than when they mount the soapbox of their popularity to assuage their own regrets about fame, express some burning personal issue, or, worse, take a political stand. What are folksingers for, anyway? This 1994 album by Australian singer Olivia Newton-John, one of the most successful pop icon-sex symbols of the '70s and early '80s, was a Top 10 hit in her homeland, but has long been considered a "lost" album by Newton-John's American fans; this marks its Stateside debut. Inspired by the cruel, dueling fates of her father's death and being diagnosed with breast cancer at virtually the same moment, Newton-John claims this self-penned and self-produced album, which ranges across topics from romance to the environment ("Gaia" represents the Spirit of Mother Earth), represents the "first time" she's expressed her true feelings--which may come as a shock to admirers of "I Honestly Love You." Perhaps ironically, the breathy, fragile voice of her pop prime convincingly wraps itself around these confessionals with determination and occasional muscle. Rife with melodic echoes from her easy-listening country past ("No Other Love," "Why Me," "I Never Knew Love"), Gaia is variously infused with mildly exotic touches, from the metaphysical "Pegasus," South American-flavored "Not Gonna Give In to It," and Hindi undercurrents in "The Way of Love" to the rainforest ambience of "Ruin" and the title track. Fans and casual listeners alike will find the album more than just a reassuring return to form; it's a bold and often surprising attempt to recast her pop legacy. --Jerry McCulley
Had DD buy me 2 of this cd when she was in Australia - LOVE it! ^ The original "Gaia" (means "Goddess") came out several years ago in Australia and a friend of mine happened to have a copy that we listened to and I fell in love with. But it was not available in the US. My daughter had to go to Australia for business/vacation and I had her look it up and buy me two cd's - an extra one in case anything happened to the first one!
All the songs tell a beautiful, deep and meaningful story of Olivia's life and outlook. If I had to choose only one song as my favorite, it would definitely be "Why Me." Hopefully the insert explaining what was happening in her life when she wrote these songs is included.
Olivia's Best! ^ I've been a huge ONJ fan since 1980. This is her best work in my opinion. She wrote and coproduced this CD shortly after her recovery from breast cancer. Each song is an expertly crafted pop gem...beautiful, tuneful and often haunting. Her lyrics are from the heart and sincere. Her voice in fine form...glorious and strong. If you've ever been a fan of her's, however casual, you should definitely check it out. Even if you're not, you might be moved and impressed.
Incredibly Inspiring... ^ It took me quite a long time to actually find a copy of this, (4 years after it's release if you want specifics) but it was definitely worth the wait. Listening to this Cd, you "feel"... pure and simple. Most of Olivia's songs don't come across so emotionally empowering. This one's definitely from the heart. What touched me the most were the dedications and inspirations for each song that preceded the lyrics in the cd jacket. Knowing why a song was written, or what it meant to her (Olivia) made it all the more thought provoking and personal. All of us have fears we have to face, and embodied in Gaia, is the inspiration to stand up and face those demons, or at least, remind us that we are not alone in feeling them. If I had to name a favorite song, I probably couldn't. Each one has been a favorite for different reasons and at different times. Which reiterates my earlier point-- listening to this cd will make you feel. You will probably find yourself relating to some facet of emotion as you listen. From the upbeat "Not Gonna Give In To It" to the heart wrenching "Don't Cut Me Down", I found myself on an emotional roller coaster. I've been a fan for a long time, and I love everything I've seen and heard to date, but I don't think anything tops Gaia: One Woman's Journey. This is definitely a MUST have.
remarkable ^ a cd I have put off getting until today....all I can say is if you are a fan of Olivia you will absolutely love this cd. Very exotic and worldlike in style - a great cd that came without much fanfare at an extremely difficult time in the artists' life - a statement of faith from the soul and heart....get it and you won't regret it.
"I honestly thank you" ^ There comes a time in ones life when we are all questioned with the reality of WHO we are, WHY we are, and WHERE we are . This album is an inspiration to all who listen to it. I know Olivia speakes for us all with this album, even though we are too afraid to ask or feel we have no right to question.It helps me get through...... the tough times.
Anything Goes Trivia
Last Kiss
Megaton Man
Trevor
