Search - Crystal Gayle :: In My Arms

Album Pleasant Surprise

paul | St. John's, NF Canada | 02/12/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I was prepared to accept the fact that "In My Arms" was a children's album and so the material and music would be simplistic. I was wrong."In My Arms", the latest offering from Crystal Gayle, is a sophisticated album that blends the wonder and innocence of childhood with an adult contemporary sound. Reminiscent of Dave Koz or Kenny G, the arrangements are filled with saxophones, horns and smooth background vocals. Gayle's vocals are the clearest and most articulate they have been since her Cage the Songbird days - and help in making this album a listening treasure. Yes, this is a children's album - so you won't find songs about the latest heartbreak or cheating love. What you will find are simple lyrics about childhood innocence and wonder - which makes it pleasurable for reminiscent adults along with children. It's soft, smooth and the continuity is wonderful - all track changes are accompanied by childrens laughter and playfulness and the entire feel of the album is linked very well. If you are a Crystal Gayle fan you will love to add this to your collection of albums that signify the more diverse Gayle who has made her career more about exploration and trying new things (usually successfully) since the end of the "hit single" years. (Which is fine, Gayle really has nothing left to prove on the charts - been there done that - many times). This is a great follow-up to last year's successful "Heart and Soul". Bottom line - Great sounding album - fantastic and exceptional vocals by Gayle and wonderful orcehstration/arrangements by the producers from Panda Music. WARNING: There is absoloutely nothing country about this album - so if you are looking for a kid-version of honky tonk or twang - this isn't it!"

Yet another area for Crystal to take on!

Chris/Sean Avidano | Roanoke, VA USA | 01/12/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is a woman of many talents, and this CD shows yet another one of them. When it comes to singing, Crystal can sing just about any material she is presented with, beit Country, Pop, Standards, Gospel, and now Children's! At first, I had mixed emotions. I knew it was a CD I would pick up for my collection, but since I don't have kids, one that would probably sit by and collect a little dust. However, after getting it, I realized that in true Crystal style, she captivates me with whatever music she lends that angelic voice to. All my reservations were vanished as soon as I heard her voice come on for the first note. Crystal sings a wonderful Children's classic. This is a must for anyone that has kids! They will love to listen to these tunes, and parents will enjoy listening to them with their kids. She shines on each one she sings. My favorites instantly were "In My Arms," "What Will I Be Tomorrow?," and "Panda Prayer." Crystal never fails to amaze me with the many genres she can pull off. What is next for her to tackle? Rap? Probably not, but I bet it would be another stunning release from the Country legend!!!!"