Search - Olivia Newton-John :: You Have Never Been Me

Contender as her best

Stephen Lloyd | London. | 12/15/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"If it's not her best then it's one of the top three - a smart and sharp album which opened her up to the world, the big US breakthrough, even if I Honestly Love You was from a year earlier. Borrowing from artists like John Denver (the version of Follow Me is awesome) this is one truly superb collection of songs."

"Kick Your Shoes Off...Close Your Eyes"

DP | Pompano Beach, FL USA | 10/24/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is the first album I stumbled upon just after seeing the worldwide cinematic smash "Grease." I was fascinated by just how beautiful the cover photo was and while I explored the musical content, I became content myself with how good her expression of these songs made me feel. Olivia's vocals have always held a very special place in my heart and she was always there for me to comfort me during times of adversity."Have You Never Been Mellow" came in a point in her career immediately after she captured the 1974 Grammy awards with her heart wrenching #1 "I Honestly Love You." And similar to this ballad, the title track contains ethereal, breathy vocals that proceeded to make the song her second US #1 in a row (This was also the second consecutive #1 album from the songtress as well.)Olivia has some wonderful covers here with "Follow Me" and "Goodbye Again" penned by the great John Denver. She also covers Rick Nelson's "Lifestream" which ease and finesse. The cover of The Hollies "The Air That I Breathe" shines with Olivia's saccharine signature vocals. Other ballads includes the consummate country/pop classic "Please Mr. Please," which went to #3 pop. "Loving Arms" and "And In The Morning" are also delivered with a sweet tenderness that onlyolivia can do. "It's So Easy" is a fun, bouncy pop song, while "I Never Did Sing You A Love Song" is another beautiful country tune. The only track I didn't seem to care for is "Water Under The Bridge," which is a bit more upbeat that doesn't seem to coincide with the "mellow" tone of the album.This album is a bit of a challenge to find. I suggest checking ebay.com for starters. It was released with a special book about Olivia's life and career called "More Than Physical" that had a limited release several years ago, which even more difficult to find. This album is a worthwhile light FM 1970's classic that is worth seeking out. "Kick your shoes off, close your eyes," and enjoy."

A Breathtaking Voice

Crazy_Daisy | 09/24/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is clearly Olivia's best album, because my father bought it for me as a gift for my 11th birthday back in 1975. Her voice is so full of emotion and vulnerability especially on "The Air That I Breathe". She definitely knows how to interpret a song and make it her own. I would say every song on this album is quite beautiful and haunting. She has one of the best voices in the business ever! We have Britney Spears now? No comparison to Newton-John. This is her masterpiece and you have to listen to it to really appreciate her talent. Her earlier stuff is her best."