cd reviews
Newcastle Herald
Thursday March 24, 2011
IN BOSTONChris Botti * * *AMERICAN trumpeter Chris Botti teamed up with the likes of Josh Groban, Sting, John Mayer, Steven Tyler, Katharine McPhee, Yo-Yo Ma and Lucia Micarelli to record this album over two nights in September 2008 at Boston's Symphony Hall. Featuring classics and well-known pieces, In Boston is soothing and mesmerising, with backing from the Boston Pops Orchestra.Botti's rendition of Leonard Cohen's Hallelujah is a highlight. The recording seems to build towards If I Ever Lose My Faith In You, featuring Sting and Dominic Miller, before ending with Time to Say Goodbye, a final focus on Botti and his trumpet.This combined CD/DVD edition has a bonus Behind the Scenes feature.- Kerrin ThomasGOING OUTIN STYLEDropkick Murphys * * * *THE Irish rockers are back with their seventh studio CD, a concept album covering the life of fictional character Cornelius Larkin.It has been close to four years since we heard from the Dropkick Murphys, but they still know how to create a party vibe. Going Out in Style has an "I don't care" attitude that permeates throughout. Highlights include Take Em Down, an anthem for anyone facing tough times at work, while 1953 is a song of dedication between lovers.The Dropkick Murphys employ traditional instruments such as an accordion, whistles and bagpipes to help deliver the upbeat punk sound they are known for.- Kerrin Thomas21Adele * * * *FROM the opening notes of Adele Adkins' latest offering, listeners will be spellbound by the powerful pipes that brought her to the world's attention on the release of her debut album, 19.Now that she's a little older, Adele's voice has matured into something even more impressive. The bluesy, foot-stomping opening track Rolling In The Deep and the sassy Rumour Has It get the album off to a brilliant start before the emotive, piano-driven Turning Tables.The album loses some of its steam when it arrives at country ballad Don't You Remember, which doesn't quite deliver the shivers intended. Thankfully 21 lifts again with He Won't Go, I'll Be Waiting, Someone Like You and a cover of The Cure's Lovesong.- Anita Beaumont
© 2011 Newcastle Herald