From his childhood on the family farm in rural Tuscany to the worldwide stage, Andrea Bocelli has achieved phenomenal success. His singing is only partially the point, and his fame owes much more to the aura of romance and... more » the romantic archetype that's attached to him. Romanza is by far Bocelli's largest success, winning adoration thanks to the swooning vocals and the easy, sometimes lush, always pop-safe instrumental textures and melodies. As far as his opera chops go, Bocelli has won the approval of Pavarotti but likely will not wow enthusiasts. The upside is that Bocelli will likely grow the opera pie, convincing labels to take on more operatic projects. --Andrew Bartlett« less
From his childhood on the family farm in rural Tuscany to the worldwide stage, Andrea Bocelli has achieved phenomenal success. His singing is only partially the point, and his fame owes much more to the aura of romance and the romantic archetype that's attached to him. Romanza is by far Bocelli's largest success, winning adoration thanks to the swooning vocals and the easy, sometimes lush, always pop-safe instrumental textures and melodies. As far as his opera chops go, Bocelli has won the approval of Pavarotti but likely will not wow enthusiasts. The upside is that Bocelli will likely grow the opera pie, convincing labels to take on more operatic projects. --Andrew Bartlett
"While walking the Strip in Las Vegas I heard the most beautiful music I have ever heard (I'm a mobile D.J. I've heard a lot) It sounded like Angels singing. Across the street the Bellagio fountain show was in progress and they were playing "Time to Say Goodbye". I bought the CD the next day. It is now used for background music at the wedding receptions I D.J. Many people have come up to me and asked who this is and where can they find the CD. If only all the good things in life were under $20.00"
The best music you'll ever hear - Heaven on Earth!
01/15/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"From the moment I heard Andrea Bocelli singing "Con Te Partiro" on public TV, I have been totally captivated by this remarkable voice and its delightful owner. There aren't enough superlatives in the English language to describe Sr. Bocelli's magnificent musical gift, which is beautifully presented by "Romanza". This music will reach the depths your soul and virtually transport you to Heaven. Bocelli stirs the emotions as no other singer ever has.Whether it is the soothing, romantic ballads of "Romanza" or the emotion-filled arias of "Viaggio italiano" or "Aria-The Opera Album", Bocelli's music is enjoyable listening for all ages and all occasions. Beware: this music is extremely addictive - happily, there are only pleasant side effects! You will never tire of listening to it. I ardently recommend "Romanza".I thank God every day for Andrea Bocelli - a gift to music fans all around the globe."
GLORIOUS!!!!!!
aceAge1@webtv.com | Florida U.S.A. | 03/19/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I have never liked opera style music because of the kind of performers that sing opera. I can't get past their egos and large straining, sweaty necks. Andrea opens his mouth and ever so effortlessly, (at least that is the way he makes it look), out comes the most romantic and over-all beautiful notes that truly transport you to Italy 300 years ago to the remote villages of the Cinque Terre, (Italian Riviera). I also love his pop songs as well, but he is bringing people to opera in a way that has never been done before. All opera stars should be thanking him for putting their style of music on such an extended global map.Pavarotti is wonderful in his own right, and should be congratulated on his work for suppressed people of the world. But, this is not the time for jealousy, as there is room for everyone. I hope they will compliment each other and support each other in the music world. Bocelli has catapulted opera into the 21th century like no one else could have. Let us relish the beauty of the voice and the man. I am not so musically ignorant that I don't know not every note Bocelli sings is perfect. But, we would be hard pressed to find anyone who is flawless. Bocelli comes pretty close.And lets give this man his due when it comes to holding a note. He must have the lungs of an elephant. Blows me away every time. Thank you Bocelli for all the joy and tears of happiness you have brought to the world. A special thanks to your wife and son for sharing your life with everyone else. Their sacrifice does not go unnoticed, and I for 1 want them to know this. Thank you."
A must have CD! Botecelli at his best here in both Italian
Jana L. Perskie | New York, NY USA | 08/25/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Romanza" was my first Andrea Boticelli album and still remains my favorite. I think this is the tenor's most definitive collection, showcasing his sweet, rich sound, powerfully held long notes, and exquisite sense of cadence. Supposedly, this was the CD geared to "bridge the gap" between pop and opera. Boticelli certainly exhibits a diverse style with this top-notch selection of romantic songs. I also prefer the mix of both Spanish and Italian lyrics.
When I originally bought "Romanza," back in the 20th century, I did so because of Botecelli's interpretation of "Con te Partiro," (Time To Say Goodbye"), which is still an exceptional song after all these years. It is dedicated to German World Light-Heavyweight boxing champion, Henry Maske and was performed at his farewell contest. Botecelli begins the album with his superb rendition of this piece, and ends with a duet of same with soprano Sarah Brightman. Simply outstanding!! The chorus was rewritten for the CD to incorporate the lyrics, "Time to say goodbye."
Other favorite cuts include: "Vivere," also a duet, this time with Sicilian soul songstress Gerardina Trovato; "Per Amore" is an intense and intensely beautiful ballad, as is "El Silencio de la Espera," which I simply love. When the song comes on I belt-out the lyrics along with Botecelli - when I am alone with him, of course; "Caruso" is poignant, emotional, poetic, with a wonderful piano backup; "Vivo per Lei" features Giorgia. Her voice blends almost seamlessly with Andrea's in this romantic cut. "Miserere," a live duet featuring John Miles, is wonderfully bluesy and one of my favorite tracks. The contrast between Miles' raspy voice and Boticelli's soaring tones is fantastic!
Andrea Boticelli's classically trained, expressive voice combined with the lush instrumental melodies and elegant material make this CD a must have!
JANA"
Can't get enough!
Roger W. Bruener | 03/01/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I was visiting a friend in Cleveland and we went to her mother's house. This CD was playing. I was spellbound. I had never heard of Andre before. She had several of his CD's. When I got home I had the tune Time to Say Goodbye stuck in my head. I just had to have that CD. I emailed my friend and she told me Andre's name and what CD to get. I listened to the selections on Amazon and found the song I wanted. Since I bought this CD last month I can honestly say I have probably listened to it over 100 times and could listen another thousand or so. You can just feel his voice in your heart. He stirs your emotions and you just want to close your eyes and soak up the music. This is a gorgeous CD. It is beautiful. I have recommended it to all my friends! Even though I don't understand one word of it, I love it! Even my husband and children love it!"