Search - Neil Diamond :: Love Songs

Classic Diamond

Lee Armstrong | Winterville, NC United States | 10/04/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"While "Love Songs" is certainly not the only Neil Diamond compilation on the market, MCA did an excellent job of assembling Neil's more romantic efforts from their catalogue. The packaging and digital remastering give a high sound quality. Both as a songwriter and interpreter, Neil's classic songs boast unique melodies and expressive vocals. "Sweet Caroline" is as gorgeous a melody as it was when it first played. "Juliet" is filled with such loving yearning that when Neil hits the "la la la la" chorus, we find a superb release. Buffy Sainte-Marie's "Until It's Time for You to Go" is one of the most beautiful melodies & Neil nails the lyric, "We'll make a space in the lives that we've planned." "Brother Love's Travelling Salvation Show" was my favorite of Neil's albums; and "If I Never Knew Your Name" from that set floats gracefully above the strings. "Play Me" & "Cracklin' Rosie" still sound fresh to my ears. Roger Miller's "Husbands & Wives" sets your mind to thinking while it sets your toe to tapping. Neil's version of Leonard Cohen's "Suzanne" doesn't quite edge out Jennifer Warnes, but it's certainly a joy. From his "Velvet Gloves & Spit" album, Neil's "Modern Day Version of Love" is wistfully romantic, "Gave not at all, got back as much." The CD closes with two classic live versions from his "Hot August Night" album of "Red, Red Wine" & "Girl, You'll Be A Woman Soon." "Love Songs" is not startlingly new, but it is technically excellent as well as some of Neil's best romantic material on one disc. Enjoy!"

Sweet Music To My Ears

Darcy Tucjker | London | 06/16/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This compilation of some of Neil Diamond's love songs is first class. The only thing that I would have liked was to have the studio versions of Red Red Wine & Girl You'll Be A Woman Soon.
Neil Diamond has been a favourte of mine since his first recordings back in the sixties and even though I have most of these songs on other CDs, it is a nice collection to listen to in the car or just for relaxation."