I don’t think anyone cannot like Michael Bublé. I first heard him on a British TV show and fell instantly in love. He has found a formula for creating good solid albums and his latest one To Be Loved is no exception. His blend of covers, collaborations and original songs make for an awesome combination – and the general consensus is to have it on repeat.
Like in his 2009 album Crazy Love with “Cry Me a River”, Bublé has released another big brassy hit that’s bringing in the radio plays. The recognizable song “It’s a Beautiful Day” has not only the singalong feel that is so particular to his style, but also has relatable lyrics that will always call for a volume change.
Many of you will buy the album after only hearing his one track “It’s a Beautiful Day”. But, despite it being an awesome song, it is definitely not the best. It’s one of the collaborations that makes this album shine. The track “Nevertheless (I’m in Love With You)” where he duets with the incredible Puppini Sisters (an a cappella group who pride themselves on unique covers of classics) is amazing. The addition of the female voice compliments Bublé’s deep sound so well that I’ve had it on repeat for two days straight. Furthermore, he made the excellent choice of joining up with fellow Canadian Bryan Adams in a song named “After All”. A wise decision, as Adam’s husky voice twinned with Bublé’s leaves you feeling happy and patriotic.
The final duet where he teams up with Hollywood actress Reese Witherspoon is… okay. I suppose “Something Stupid” is the song where Bublé could face the most criticism. Covering a Sinatra song is difficult, especially when they both have such similar voices. You would hope that the accompaniment of a female voice would strengthen the track, but in my opinion, it falls flat. A song that has such sweet lyrics, and should sound cheerful and happy, is sung out by Witherspoon in a bland monotonous tone that brings a lull to the middle of the album. Never fear though, as it is just one “stupid” track surrounded by 13 great ones.
Unlike some bands who change their sound from album to album, Bublé hasn’t. He’s found – or in some peoples opinion remastered – a great sound and is plugging it for all he’s got; and I’m not complaining. You know where you stand with him. You know what kind of mood his music creates, and you learn his words. So, if you’re hoping for different Bublé than you have seen before, you might be let down. If you like his old stuff, pick this latest release up, because it’s still the Bublé we know and love.
