+ 1/2 star excellent--as far as it goes, that is
Matthew G. Sherwin | last seen screaming at Amazon customer service | 11/22/2009
(3 out of 5 stars)
"They may say that this is a "career spanning CD;" but for a talent like Andy Williams it's tough for me to accept this as a real "very best of" retrospective of Andy's wonderful singing. Yes, we do indeed get nothing but superb music here; and Andy's voice is enchanting. Unfortunately, however, if any record label wants to release music that covers the best of Andy's entire career, they would have to release at least a two CD set. This is best seen as a type of retrospective of Andy's career geared toward the more casual fan who wants some of Andy's best songs. On the bright side again, however, the quality of the sound is excellent and that artwork is really nice.
All of the songs on this album are fantastic--there's not a dud in the bunch. "Moon River," a song that Andy always likes to sing, starts off the track set with Andy squarely in the spotlight; and he sings this faultlessly. The strings enhance the musical arrangement, too; I really love Andy's version of "Moon River." The theme from the movie "Love Story" charms me with its beauty; Andy delivers this like the master he always was and always will be! This number leaves nothing to be desired--this music is all THAT good. In addition, "Can't Get Used to Losing You" is a gem; Andy makes this shine brighter than silver and gold combined! He handles key and tempo changes like the master he is. "Born Free" and the love theme from "Romeo and Juliet" also impress me greatly.
I like the love theme from "The Godfather;" and there's yet another highlight when Andy performs "Days of Wine and Roses." "Days of Wine and Roses" is a stunning tune that I could never tire of hearing when Andy sings it. "Music to Watch Girls By" is a "hip and happenin'" tune even after all these years; I really like "Music to Watch Girls By."
"Can't Take My Eyes off You" offers up another beautiful love song; and how's about that brass? The CD ends very well with Andy Williams performing one of his best holiday songs entitled "It's The Most Wonderful Time of the Year." What a great way to end the CD!
If you like Andy Williams you may well have these songs already; but this is great for newcomers to Andy Williams or people who just want some of Andy's best. Unfortunately, however, it's just not enough of a retrospective to qualify in my book as a "very best of" CD. You'll need at least two CDs for that!"
Moon River: The Very Best of Andy Williams
C. Ukers | New Milford, Ct. USA | 11/24/2009
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This is another great CD of Andy Williams select songs and his beautiful voice. This CD also goes along with is new book that just came out. If you want a relaxed Andy Williams singing to you, you won't
go wrong with this CD. The book and CD are wonderful, I am glad I have both, and I am sure anyone buying this CD will enjoy it also."
Andy is the Best!
R. Myers | Marion, IN United States | 12/11/2009
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I've been a fan of Andy Williams for years and have almost all of his albums and songs - from his 25+ years with Cadence and Columbia (Sony), to later labels. This is a pretty good collection of many of his best and better known songs --- missing are his wonderful and very popular recordings like "More", "Lonely Street", "Are You Sincere", & "Canadian Sunset".
In a recording career that spans more than 50 years, I'm sure it's a bit difficult to choose songs as "the very best". All in all - a great collection and will give newer listeners a great appreciation of this wonderful singer, star, and person."