Search - Lesley Garrett :: When I Fall In Love [United Kingdom]

A Love Struck Garrett Impresses

T. Yap | Sydney, NSW, Australia | 06/07/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Prime Cuts: More, La Mer, He Was Beautiful



Though many of these paeans have been perennially recycled on countless numbers of jazz and standards CDs, Garrett's latest effort is so beautifully created that any previous renditions just pale in comparison. For starters, this English soprano is more than your average cabaret vocalist. Rather, being someone whose roots are in classical music, Garrett not only is able to soar to great heights vocally, but she also possesses a vocal agility permitting her to maneuver with the melodic fluidity of a tune that few can only dream of doing. Further, thanks to producer Tolga Kashif and the Filharmonic Orchestra, the well-tailored lush backings give the impression that these were pieces of soundtracks lifted straight out of those sepia-toned silver-screened romantic epics of yore. Even more exquisite are Garrett's seasoned and considerate interpretative skills--never forced or contrived, she nuances each syllable as though they are her very heart's cry, making these standards palpable with an affecting élan.



Of all the love songs written from the viewpoint of a woman, Shirley Basssey's "He Was Beautiful" brims with limpidity and realism. Though few can rival Barbra Streisand's signature sound on her hit "The Way We Were," Garrett comes close especially in the way she purposefully holds and releases her notes. For those who love over-the top performances check out "Where Do I Begin" where the gentle opening burgeons up to a crescendo of declaration of love. Crooner Michael Ball joins Garrett on the equally lovely "Come What May" which again ends on a powerhouse high.



Never restricted by linguistic boundaries, Garrett has a duo of songs that utilizes the language of love that is French. "Ler Mer," a simple descriptive ballad extolling the beauty of the sea, becomes an elegant animated ballad that only proves that in the hands of a great vocalist even a single blade of grass can become the subject of a musical opus. "Non, Je Ne Regrette Rien," with its marching drums and horns sounds, has the feel of a 19th Century English waltz. While on the title track, Garrett drips with elation in the euphoria of love created by some amorous-sounding strings.



Perhaps also noteworthy of mention are the photos that come with the CD booklet: courtesy of Simon Fowler, they are of Garrett in various posses at a French Cafe. Like the songs of this CD, these photos are classy, elegant and poignant. For fans who love romantic ballads from a lady who is in command of her material and who is not afraid to sing her heart out, "When I Fall in Love" is a treat. In the venerable haute monde of Streisand, Brightman and Eder, Garrett comfortably finds company.

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