SUMMARY: RUNNING TIME: 4:21 Min.
For her 2008 album, “I Am … Sasha Fierce,” Beyonce Knowles recorded this pop track.
REVIEW:
Beyoncé Knowles delivers a knockout vocal performance, as her voice sends “Halo” soaring above the simplistic lyrics. Further bolstered by an uplifting R&B/gospel melody, “Halo” is an ideal sample of Knowles’ capabilities as a solo pop artist following her run with Destiny’s Child
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 8 Stars
IMAGE NOT AVAILABLE
SUMMARY: RUNNING TIME: 4:20 Min.
First released in 1989 by Van Morrison, his song subsequently appears on the 1996 One Fine Day movie soundtrack.
REVIEW:
Unlike Rod Stewart’s radio-friendly cover, Van Morrison’s low-key original sounds like it’d more likely be heard in a church. Very much resembling a hymn, the instrumentals (including a wonderful piano accompaniment) are timeless. Judging by its artistic style, one might guess this song was recorded in the ‘60’s or ‘70s rather than 1989. For easy listening and/or gospel-themed playlists, Morrison’s “Have I Told You Lately” is a gem.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 8½ Stars
IMAGE NOT AVAILABLE
SUMMARY: RUNNING TIME: 3:24 Min.
Originally from 1992’s Hero soundtrack, this upbeat, gospel choir-flavored tune sung by Luther Vandross is a pivotal theme for the film starring Dustin Hoffman, Geena Davis, and Andy Garcia. This song was later included on 1999’s All-Time Greatest Movie Songs compilation album.
REVIEW:
Luther Vandross, with back-up from a stellar gospel choir, unleashes an ode to the unselfish spirit of heroism. Including a reference to “It doesn’t take Superman” to be a real hero, the tune’s inspirational aura makes great use of a catchy melody. Its best asset is an exuberant effort by Vandross and the gospel choir delivering what this song needs at the right moments. Despite some clichéd lyrics, the rousing “Heart of a Hero” is a nice addition to any playlist (including workouts).
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 7½ Stars
IMAGE NOT AVAILABLE
SUMMARY: RUNNING TIME: 4:56 Min.
From her 1988 album, The Lover In Me, Sheena Easton would perform this ballad in character as singer Caitlin Davies-Crockett in the Miami Vice TV episode, “Deliver Us From Evil,” serving as its fourth season’s ominous finale. The song also appears on 1988’s Miami Vice III soundtrack album and 2004’s Miami Vice: The Ultimate Collection CD.
REVIEW:
Oddly contradicting the steamy sex appeal theme imbuing The Lover In Me album, Easton’s effervescent “Follow My Rainbow” is an underrated gem. Treading on gospel-like optimism, this soaring pop ballad delivers Easton’s voice in vintage form. Its poignancy re: following one’s ‘rainbow’ to save a troubled romance by staying on course with resilient personal faith makes for an uplifting listening experience. Even if this effervescent song doesn’t age too well, it’s a reminder of Easton’s considerable talents when she is supplied a worthy song.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 8 Stars
IMAGE NOT AVAILABLE
SUMMARY: RUNNING TIME: 3:17 Min.
“Every Heartbeat” first appeared as the second release from Amy Grant’s successful 1991 pop crossover album, Heart in Motion. In a slightly edited form (it’s about seventeen seconds shorter), the song subsequently appears on Grant’s 2004 Greatest Hits: 1986-2004 album. Grant also co-wrote the song.
REVIEW:
Much like “Baby, Baby,” no, this bubblegum romantic pop tune won’t likely age well for non-fans. Yet, Amy Grant’s effervescence on “Every Heartbeat” remains a terrific asset. Balanced with a sunny up-tempo melody, her classy vocals are endearing for listeners in the right mood. “Every Heartbeat” certainly deserves a shot at re-discovery, as it would be a worthwhile choice for ultra-clean pop/easy listening playlists.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 7 Stars
IMAGE NOT AVAILABLE
SUMMARY: RUNNING TIME: 5:19 Min.
This romantic R&B track was recorded by Lisa Fischer for her 1991 album, So Intense. The song went on to win Best R&B Female Vocal Performance at the 1992 (34th Annual) Grammy Awards.
REVIEW:
It’s hard to believe that this seemingly routine R&B tune is a Grammy winner — a nomination, sure, but winning such an award seems something of a stretch.
Anchored by a Japanese jazz fusion-style melody, this somewhat sultry ballad showcases Lisa Fischer well enough. Expressing a wide vocal range reminiscent of Mariah Carey of that same era, Fischer’s style also throws in some vintage Patti LaBelle for good measure. Another asset is that the funky melody enhances “How Can I Ease the Pain,” in such a way that it’d make a great instrumental tune alone. Judging by this track, it might worth exploring more of Fischer’s playlist.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 7 Stars
IMAGE NOT AVAILABLE
SUMMARY: RUNNING TIME: 4:51 Min.
Released in 2017, Natalie Mendoza (aka Natalie Louise Mendoza) recorded this single.
REVIEW:
Including its mostly acoustic sound, this coffee house-style song is reminiscent of mid-90’s Jewel Kilcher – and, to a degree, a softer version of Stevie Nicks. Natalie Mendoza’s appealingly low-key vocals contribute another vital creative element, making “How Do You Breathe?” a viable contender for soft rock/easy listening playlists. Nicely played!
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 7½ Stars
IMAGE NOT AVAILABLE
SUMMARY: RUNNING TIME: 3:56 Min.
Performed by The Girl and The Dreamcatcher (a duo consisting of actors Dove Cameron and Ryan McCartan), this upbeat 2016 romantic pop track is also included on their album, Negatives, released the same year.
REVIEW:
Buoyed by an exuberant melody, this youthful love song is ideal for a Disney Channel movie, i.e. Descendants, which isn’t likely a coincidence. The peppy instrumental work adds another nice touch for undemanding kids. However, despite pleasant chemistry shared between Dove Cameron and Ryan McCartan, “Glowing in the Dark” won’t likely age well in a decade. Considering its intended audience is strictly pre-teens and maybe some middle schoolers, parents hearing this bubble-gum tune once or twice will be plenty before the excessive perkiness starts grating fast.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 4 Stars
IMAGE NOT AVAILABLE
SUMMARY: RUNNING TIME: 3:24 Min.
Released in 2016 as a single, this instrumental cover of Rachel Platten’s 2015 radio hit, “Fight Song (This is My Fight Song),” is from Abtmelody.
REVIEW:
For a karaoke rendition of Platten’s “Fight Song,” this energetic cover by Abtmelody makes a solid choice. Boasting excellent production quality, this cover its most of the nuances of Platten’s signature hit. Abtmelody’s version also contributes a somewhat generic dance-flavored remix to the tune.
BRIAN & JAYNA’S 10-STAR RATING: 7 Stars
IMAGE NOT AVAILABLE
SUMMARY: RUNNING TIME: 3:54 Min.
Originally released in 1996, this low-key tune is the primary theme of the John Travolta sci-fi/fantasy film, Phenomenon. Among other albums this song has appeared on is 2007’s Complete Clapton CD. This version of the song is considered Eric Clapton’s “standard release” edition.
REVIEW:
Imbued with a low-key Clapton performance, its leisurely-paced melody is blessed with thoughtful lyrics that any romantic daydreamer can relate to. “Change the World” is well-composed, as Clapton’s distinctive voice brings this love song to life with the right degree of poignancy. The track is certainly worth re-discovery.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 8 Stars
IMAGE NOT AVAILABLE