Audio CD review:
Justin Hayward - Classic Blue

Justin Hayward - Classic Blue

Band: Justin Hayward Title: Classic Blue Rating: Release Date: 1995-06-06 Media: Audio CD Tracks:

One voice, thirteen songs, and endless accolades, it is a classic Justin Haywood's brilliant 1994 album "Classic Blue" has thirteen cover tunes from songs that had garnered his attention over the years. As the author of the Jefferson Airplane book "Take Me To A Circus Tent" and a former radio disc-jockey, I am often asked to write and or discuss various music supplies and recordings from the 60's and 70's. With the help of Mike Batt and the London Philharmonic Orchestra, Haywood takes us on a musical odyssey that is magnificent. It would not be poetic license to put this at the top of any Moody Blues solo projects. Justin's voice is in terrific form. What will impress any Moody Blues fan is how he was willing to take on such diverse tracks from the Beatles to Led Zeppelin and the superlative fashion of his vocal representations. The difference between a musical genius and a critic with an agenda is the musician knows that there is nothing uncool admitting a performer outside your forte is impressive. Robbie Robertson from the Band had no problem with Neil Diamond partaking in the "Last Waltz" and Justin didn't think twice of covering the Richard Harris mega hit "MacArthur Park. " Opening with the Miracles worldwide smash "Tracks Of My Tears", Haywood immediately impresses the listener by going outside the progressive rock comfort zone for his version of the rhythm and blues classic. "MacArthur Park" (All seven minutes) is stunning for the arrangement and complexity. Haywood pays homage to the Beatles (Lennon & McCartney) with a wonderful vocal on "Blackbird. " Don McLean's "Vincent" is powerful enough to stop time. He has taken the song to a greater level. The production on the Beach Boys "God Only Knows" is flawless. There are no imperfections as Justin holds our attention during very note. "A Whiter Shade Of Pale" (Procol Harum) is delivered with such precision it is scary that one singer can excel on so many levels. Simon & Garfunkel are known for the timeless version of "Scarborough Fair. " Haywood proudly unveils his tremendous rendition. "Forever Autumn" is recognizable from "War Of The Worlds. " We are offered another opportunity to hear the song with spectacular results. As the journey reaches the end one of the most famous songs ever penned "Stairway To Heaven" (Led Zeppelin) leaves us shaking our heads with amazement. One voice, thirteen songs, and endless accolades, thank you Justin. Enjoy the music and be well, Craig Fenton Author of the Jefferson Airplane book "Take Me To A Circus Tent" . You can see a complete list of all Justin Hayward discography, or go back to the Justin Hayward tabs