CD REVIEW: JACKIE EVANCHO – Awakening

Label: Portrait Records

Release Date: September 23, 2014

Rating: 8.5/10

Reviewed by: Todd “Toddstar” Jolicoeur

Even the most die hard metal listener needs to cleanse the palate occasionally.  The latest from Jackie Evancho does that and more.  “Think Of Me” is a classic track from The Phantom Of The Opera, and Ms. Evancho stays true to the original, including the strong vocals she lends this track.  “Your Love” follows the strong opening and builds the feels and direction of the disc nicely with a more tempered track that highlights her voice.  “Take Me There” is a lighter track that borders on crossover, much like a cover track later in the sequencing.  This song, while mild, adds depth to the collection.  Another classic, “Ave Maria,” is a perfect selection for Jackie, as it fits well within her abilities and offers a slightly different interpretation that most of us are accustomed to.  “The Rains Of Castamere” is a good track that was new to me (as I don’t partake in the madness that is Game Of Thrones).  This song flexes the classical side of Evancho’s vocals.  “Vocalise” is a clever device that allows Jackie to demonstrate the strength and emotion in her vocal chords.

“Je T’aime” is a great piece that gives the disc its first foreign language track, but doesn’t detract from the quality of the music or the vocals despite the language barrier.  “Open Fields Of Grace” gives Jackie room to spread her wings a bit with a track that tests her lower register as well as letting her run at the higher end as well.  “Memories” has a cool groove underneath that gets the foot tapping and shows that despite the operatic and classical tones and textures of Evancho’s voice, she still has a ‘cool’ sound when allowed to stray from the path.  “Dormi Jesu” is the other foreign track, and it benefits from the youthful yet strong tones in the vocals, as well as the mix of orchestration and Ms. Evancho.  “With Or Without You” is a cool remake of the U2 classic that reflects the pop sensibility of Jackie’s voice hidden underneath the operatic vibratto.  This version is as enjoyable, even without the heavy guitars and rhythm section.  Disc closer “Made To Dream” is the perfect way to end this collection, as it puts a fresh sound to a classic style.

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Category: CD Reviews