An Excellent Comeback from Michael McDonald After three mediocore albums in the 1990s. Michael McDonald chose to go back to his roots. Having been a long time admire of Stevie Wonder and Marvin Gaye as well as other artists he seems to top the originals. Despite the fact that following the release of this album he had been ridiculed on TV (Family Guy), moviesThe 40-Year-Old Virgin (Unrated Full Screen Edition) and the popular Internet series Yacht Rock he doesn't seem to mind at all and that's why he did a second one. Don't let the cover fool you, there is an earlier American pressing.
MICHAEL McDONALD AND THE MOTOWN SOUND ! (it works) As a child growing up in the 1960s, I have memories of us kids sitting in the back seat of the family car and listening to "The Motown Sound" on the car's AM radio. Berry Gordy, Jr.'s Motown Records empire dominated AM radio playlists in the sixties, and you didn't have to wait very long to hear a Motown song. Dad always drove, Mom rode shotgun and us kids were all in the backseat. We had a lot of fun back in those days, and the world seemed dependable and carefree. The sweet and soulful "Motown Sound" made it all that much better.
Michael McDonald takes us back to Motown's glory days and the 1960s and 70s with his excellent album, Motown (2003). Not every singer could do a Motown tribute album like this, but Michael not only does a respectable job here, he gives a lot of these songs a lift right into the 21st century. It's a wonderful tribute! Now, some of you will say that the original versions are better, and I'll be the first to admit that in most cases that's true, but that's not really "what's going on" here. This is Michael McDonald doing an album of updated versions of Motown songs (although most of the arrangements are true to the originals). The production is pristine, full of pop orchestration and soulful female backing vocals just like the original Motown, and in most instances the only difference between the songs on this album and the originals is Michael is doing the singing. Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell's Ain't No Mountain High Enough and Ain't Nothing Like The Real Thing are both notable, but certainly not the only highlights here. Stevie Wonder's All In Love Is Fair gets an emotionally soulful interpretation from Michael and sounds great, even rivaling the original. The cover of Marvin Gaye's I heard It Through The Grapevine is excellent, and I like this heartfelt version of The Temptations' Since I Lost My Baby, too.
No, these aren't the originals, but if you like Michael McDonald and you like Motown, you get both with "Motown". Plus a trip back to a magical time in popular music history.
An amazing performer! This man has the kind of voice which sends chills up your spine. He is such a talent - how can you possibly ever get sick of listening to him. This CD features all the most popular Motown titles and Michael certainly does a good job of it. Do yourself a favour and purchase it.
A good listen Wow - some mixed reviews here. Have to say if you are a fan of "the voice" you will be a fan of this. Great music to sing along to and a smooth voice singing it. If you want the originals, buy the originals! If you want a nice grouping with a superb voice, this is it.
Look for a new group of R&B covers with 3 new originals from Michael 3/11/8. "Soul Speak" has already charted 3 songs simultaneously on Billboard the first week of singles release so once again - you'll like it.
Competent, Alluring Covers with a different Voice.... People. I forgot to mention that during my stay at the beach this summer, there came a hoard of baby-boomers who took up residence at this exclusive beach house not far from beloved sand castle. It did not take me long to realize that they were going to party until 3 o'clock in the morning everyday (sometimes 4 or 5!). I was invited once, and given a potent martini to mellow me into a party mood. I admit I was lost. With Guido being in California and the rest of my guides attending to saving Britney, my concerns were of no concern! Needless to say- I stayed and partied. If I am being all things to all people- then I had to. Maybe I should run for political office. Hmmmm....maybe it could work. Anyway- one selection that they seemed to love was this one. And, as you know, Metamorpho is not opposed to any music (unless he hates it-of course). But, since I don't have a hateful bone in my body - I took it all in good stride. But, let's get to Michael McDonald, shall we? I think this album is NOT really reflection in it's highest form. However, that said, he makes a concentrated stab at classic Motown tunes and does a more than respectable job at that. You all may think it's a sell-out and that nothing could compare to the originals. But, I don't think that is the point of the album. I think, instead, he gives a lift to the originals, making you realize what a glorious wealth of music Motown produced. Alot of these tunes are classics and, undeniably, an essential part of American music that was produced in an incredibly fertile time. Expertly produced, and with the distinct voice of Michael, you wind up with an album that satisfys on every level. I could never have imagined "Reflections" sung by anyone but the Supremes. But, he does it, and very well at that. He's got the back-up singers and everything shines through with amazing accuracy. This is not only very listenable- but at times a positive charge to the system and you find yourself glady giving up your spirit to the groove. I see the advantage of this album in many ways. If anything- if you don't own the originals, you will seek them out. He brings your attention and his talent to wonderful arrangements of classic songs. It is a nice excursion and a very listenable c.d. He has picked a genre for his inimitable voice-soulful,smokey, and with all the nuance you would expect. The downside for me is that these can't compare with the originals. They are for all time. But these are respectable covers done extremely well. It is a joy in many respects and, I can tell you, after a few martinis it only gets better and better. (Well, doesn't everything? :)). It falls short of 5 stars, but not by much- and if you're having a party- it is a good slection to play. It is not a classic-but a good reflection of the classics and Michael deserves accolades for the effort. I guess that's it for now. I must go and figure out what album I will review next and find those guides who have deserted me. They mean well-but just haven't learned that my needs come first! Oh well... Ain't no mountain high enough... to keep my reviews getting to you.....Cheers-Metamorpho
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