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Melanie: A Great Interpreter of Songs!

Dennis Lee Cleven | Madison, WI | 10/07/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This CD is an expanded version of "Moments From My Life" and the added songs are a great gift. Melanie is an artist who doesn't simply cover a song; she interpretes it in her unique way. Many people are put off by albums that are all cover tracks but this one is not Melanie trying to sound like the original artist who had a hit with it; she makes these songs her own. "Come Softly to Me" has unique production that is not at all like the original and the same goes for "Ain't No Sunshine". She puts her soul into "As Tears Go By" and it is as strong as both versions by Marianne Faithfull and the one by The Rolling Stones. "Peace Train" is beautiful and "Dust in the Wind", "Broken Wings", "To Love Somebody", "Those Were the Days" all take on a very different meaning by Melanie's interpretations. When she sings "You Keep Me Hangin'On", there is an intensity not found in the original version when she belts out the lyrics, "get out of my life!"

If you ever liked any Melanie recording, this will be a treasure for you. Time has not diminished her great vocal abilities at all. She is a great artist. I cannot recommend this CD enough. There are a lot of songs and it is a full CD: 79 minutes. It goes by fast! Enjoy the artistry of Melanie!"

America's most under rated Singer/Songwriter

D. Honour | South West Florida | 07/02/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Melanie has always been one of those performers who can sing any song and make it magical - maybe that is why her fans refer to her talent as "Melanie Magic". She hasn't been standing still singing "old" songs but she has modernized her sound and "feel". This album is all Covers - and she updates them as only she could. If you buy this recording expecting to hear the old "folk" Melanie - you will be surprised at how up to date she is. She can rock with any of the "flavors of the month girls" currently on the charts. Although her appeal in America has faded to obscurity - she is still a huge draw in Europe and Asia (guess they can recognize talent when they hear it). Give this Singer/Songwrite who has been performing for over 40 years a listen - if you knew her music 20 years ago - you will be amazed at what she is up to now. By the way - her next world tour will be for the 40th anniversary of the release of "Candles in the Rain". Great stuff here - give it a listen."