Search - Johnny Mathis :: All About Love

Mathis Gets Room To Stretch Without Hurting Himself

11/02/1997

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Johnny Mathis has enlisted the talent of legendary producer Phil Ramone and a host of wonderful studio musicians to create a jazzy-feeling, contemporary-sounding recording featuring the songs of Carole King, Steven Bishop, Burt Bacharach, Brian McKnight, and others. Mathis likes to break from tradition every now and then, stretching his wings and his voice to explore new styles, as he's done with this recording. Reminiscent of "Right From The Heart" (1986) in that regard, the difference here is that there aren't any songs on "All About Love" that Mathis can't handle, no notes he shouldn't try to sing, at least not in public! Every song, from the reggae-flavored "Let Your Heart Remember" to the introspective "Could It Be Love This Time", is well-delivered. The background singers actually complement his voice, for a change, and the production is clean. Not as clean as the last studio album, 1993's "How Do You Keep The Music Playing", but nevertheless very listenable. Cover artwork is beautiful. Instead of the ubiquitous glamour shot, the foldout booklet actually sets the appropriate mood for the recording for a change. It's reminiscent of the good old days when cover art really was artwork and, frankly, makes me long for the larger, frameable LP format. If there is a complaint to be had, it concerns the ridiculous pricing for 10 songs. There's little more than 45 minutes worth and room for 20 minutes more. Don't look for songs from this one on the "memory music" stations. This recording is a perfect fit for the "smooth jazz" format. Although contemporary, it's possible to push the repeat button and leave it on all day without getting tired of it. Try this one in your Walkman® at work. But be warned. Mathis traditionalists accustomed to his cabaret-style vocal performances will be caught by surprise by "All About Love". On the other hand, even I, an ardent fan of the "new Mathis style", was shocked at first by the hint of Jamaica in the lead tune. But the disbelief soon faded to pleasant surprise as the seconds passed. All it takes is an open mind and a love of Mathis and the beautiful music he performs. It's a much-needed creative stretch for the older Mathis, but he doesn't hurt himself, and he won't hurt your ears, either. If you liked 1988's "Once in a While", you're going to like this one even better. This is one of my favorite Mathis recordings of all time. My song pick: Carole King's "I Will Walk Away". END"

Easy listening

LARRY C RUSSELL | WENATCHEE, WA United States | 02/17/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This album was well put together, and for the most part, the lyricists and composers plied their work successfully. Mathis sings these songs easily and with his traditional interpretation pleasantly presented.I have had this album since it was released in 1996 and enjoy it more with each listening session. The album offers a variety rhythms and moods, though all are about love, as the title says."

All About Love

G. Carter | Temple Hills, maryland United States | 03/02/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Phil Ramone did a great job producing this cd on Johnny, Johnny as always is in great voice, this is a nice mixture of songs on Johnny, nice romantic ballads & a mix of uptempo tunes."