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
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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
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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
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SUMMARY: RUNNING TIME: 4:44 Min.
This electronic jazz track was first released on Paul Hardcastle’s First Light album in 1997. It would later resurface on Hardcastle’s The Chill Lounge (Volume 1) album in 2012.
REVIEW:
Between a bevy of synthesizer sound effects and funky choral-style chanting in the background, “First Light, Part 1” is a curious listening experience. Its slower New Age jazz vibe resonating with European-style dance elements makes it frankly hard to define further. The closest comparison re: “First Light, Part 1,” is that Hardcastle’s trajectory resembles a similar style of electronica associated with Jan Hammer or the late Robert Miles. This casually-paced tune is initially enjoyable in its entirety, but “First Light, Part 1” might not be an ideal choice for frequent rotation on playlists.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 6 Stars
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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
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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
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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
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SUMMARY: RUNNING TIME: 5:51 Min.
Also known as a ‘Top Model 2007 Remix,’ this dance reboot of Sylvester Levay’s Airwolf TV theme was utilized as a runway accompaniment by the Polish TV series, Top Model (Poland’s equivalent to America’s Next Top Model). This European house music remix is evidently credited to René de Versailles. This track was released as a single in 2007.
REVIEW:
Much like how decades ago Meco imaginatively remixed some of John Williams’ Star Wars themes into gimmicky disco classics, the same concept applies applies to René de Versailles’ snazzy reboot of Sylvester Levay’s Airwolf. Beginning with some brief sound effects, this six-minute reboot of Levay’s instrumental work offers undeniable fun. Upon hearing it, de Versailles’ version makes sense why this catchy, techno-flavored theme is an ideal accompaniment for glamour modeling. Beyond its appeal to Airwolf enthusiasts, downloading this “Theme from Airwolf (Dance & Disco Version)” makes a terrific addition to any electronica-themed playlist
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 8½ Stars
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SUMMARY: RUNNING TIME: 2:58 Min.
Written by Billy Hill, this jazz standard dates back to 1936 where Benny Goodman first popularized it. For the 1996 One Fine Day comedy starring Michelle Pfeiffer & George Clooney, Keb’ Mo’ covers the tune for its soundtrack.
REVIEW:
Seamlessly blending jazz with R&B (including some great solo harmonica action), Keb’ Mo’ breathes fresh life into this oldie-but-goodie. Sounding at the top of his game, Keb’ Mo’ makes “The Glory of Love” a delight of a download.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 9 Stars
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SUMMARY: RUNNING TIME: 5:25 Min.
By the Jazz At the Movies Band, this instrumental jazz standard is from their 2005 album, White Heat: Film Noir. The theme dates back to composer David Raksin for extensive use in the 1944 romantic mystery film, Laura, starring Gene Tierney, Dana Andrews, and Vincent Price.
REVIEW:
Lacking the lush Hollywood magic heard in the original’s haunting sound, this low-key tune is still a solid interpretation. Reminiscent of the classy jazz sound that Dave Grusin is known for, The Jazz at the Movies Band admirably breathes sp,e fresh life into the “Theme from Laura.” Their lounge style-effort is worth checking out as a supplement to any instrumental jazz playlists, including who have enjoyed The Fabulous Baker Boys soundtrack.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 7½ Stars
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