by Josh Groban List Price:$18.00 Our Price:$13.00 Availability: Usually ships in 24 hours
Product Details
Media: Audio CD
Release Date: Tuesday, November 11, 2003
Label: Warner Brothers
Average Customer Review: 4.5 Based on 497 reviews.
Sales Rank: 101
Tracks
1.
Remember When It Rained
2.
Hymne a l'Amour
3.
You Raise Me Up
4.
Never Let Go
5.
Caruso
6.
Broken Vow
7.
All Improvviso Amore
8.
Per Te
9.
When You Say You Love Me
10.
Si Volvieras a Mi
11.
Il Postino (Mi Mancherai)
12.
My Confession
13.
Oceano
14.
Hymne a l'Amour
Editorial Review
Thanks to a fortuitous intersection of talent and fate, 22-year-old Josh Groban hasn't finished his senior year in performing arts school but has already released his sophomore effort on a major major label. Fans of the young vocal phenom's debut will find much to enthrall them here, even if it nudges the singer closer to the center of producer/mentor David Foster's MOR pop sensibilities. Eschewing much of its predecessor's more overt classic-lite pretensions and pop-rock covers for a slate of dramatic, Eurocentric ballads that serve as a showcase for the singer's inviting baritone, Groban shrewdly positions himself as the American alternative to the Bocelli-Watson crossover axis. "Caruso" may find the singer falling short of its operatic inspiration, but "Oceano" and "My Confession" quickly showcase his true dramatic range (which seems to all but yearn for a bona fide Broadway musical challenge), while a vocal take of Bacalov's graceful "Il Postino" theme uses classical virtuoso Joshua Bell's violin flourishes to good effect. To his credit, Groban displays some promising efforts at songwriting collaboration on the bittersweet "Per Te" and "Remember When It Rains," while the ambient/ethnic soundscape of Deep Forest's "Never Let Go" offers a teasing alternative to the record's otherwise melodramatic production formula. Groban has found commercial triumph via Foster's mentoring, but there remains a nagging sense here that he hasn't truly pushed himself as an artist--yet. --Jerry McCulley
Top Customer Reviews
Rating:
5 Architecture and Josh are Relative
If you haven't heard of Josh Groban, then this is the perfect time. "Closer" is a wonderful place to start. It's a great introduction to a new type of pop music by someone with a classically trained voice. It has a different sound, but it's refreshing. If you have an open mind then this will be a rewarding experience.I once thought that pop music had to be a collection of catchy slick tunes, just as I thought a staircase's purpose was to only serve my feet. But architecture school changed the latter view. I now know that a staircase can stand alone as its own piece of architecture. But I had to see it in photos and do a staircase project in school in order to believe it. I never would have thought otherwise. It's the same with Josh's music and voice. If you've never listened to it in its entirety, then it's easy to form a sour opinion. If you play his CD only willing to accept Justin Timberlake as the outcome, then it will be a great disappointment. "Closer" does represent contemporary pop music, just not in the form that most are used to. But it's no less valid because it's in a different package or contains an unfamiliar sound.I traditionally buy R&B first, but that doesn't mean that those CDs are the favorites in my collection. It doesn't guarantee a particular status over another style or genre. I watch MTV all the time, and I have Justin Timberlake's CD. Therefore, I am capable of liking his interpretation of pop music and Josh's. I'm glad there are recording artists willing to take us down a more traditional path, and others that will take us on a journey that we never expected.Architecture school freed my mind and so has Josh's music. Even though I have altered my career path, the experience was priceless. Once you listen to Josh, your universe will never be the same shape again.
Rating:
5 A stunning masterpiece!
I haven't heard a new artist come forth with incredible music in many years up until I got a chance to listen to Groban's second album entitled "Closer" and what I have to say is is that WOW! I had lost much of my faith in newer younger artists who have been breaking onto the music scene. Around 99 percent of them just sell themselves to being poseur rappers (yergh) or generic commercial pop, rock bands with little to no uniqueness in their styles. The result is just bland, forgettable and sometimes just awful music in my part. Josh Groban though blows all of his peers right out of the water and into the trash with his second album "Closer" and I can't believe that I'm saying this but he is already rising into becoming a favorite of mines for the year 2003 and 2004 and with "Closer" I could very well consider myself a fan of his. He brings forth among the greatest singing skills that I haven't heard by many artists in many years and to back that up, he selects the perfect styles of music to go along with it: Opera, pop, with some classical spice thrown in and the result is one of the best albums I've heard in a long time, possibly in years. A lot of this album benefits from David Foster's production whose production is among my favorites of modern music producers. Go and check out his 1986 self-titled and "River Of Love" album as they are both incredible. What's even better is that Josh in fact wrote and composed some of the songs on this album! This album opens with a stunning snowstorm of beauty with the bittersweet "Oceano" and ends with a stormy bang with the ethnic "Never Let Go". "Oceano" starts as a tender ballad with haunting opera vocals and tender piano and then rises into a dramatic power pop ballad with a classical pop sound to it. This album also has songs in four languages: French, Spanish, Italian and English but even with the confusion in translating, the songs are all amazing like as if you could still understand them and break down the language barriers. In between the first and final songs
Rating:
5 You have to get this one
This man is INCREDIBLE! The voice is like a smooth wine and the lyrics speak to you i a personal way. There is something in here for everyone. Some happiness and some pain in the one that got away. Can't wait to get his other cd's in the mail.
Rating:
4 This follow-up album exceeded my expectations...............
I became a Josh Groban fan after I saw his PBS concert special. His voice just takes my breath away. He has such a mature voice despite his young age. I wasted no time getting his second album. I have no regrets purchasing "Closer". Often artists change their musical formula either too much or the other main complaint is lack of variety and not evolving enough musically. I think Josh's cd has an excellent balance between the two. His first album was sung mostly in italian and english. Closer has a variety of songs sung in italian, english, spanish, and french. Definitely a good move in a positive way because I can appreciate his voice in that many more languages. His voice is beautiful and he has a powerful range. "Remember when it rained" is a very slow and tender ballad which is wonderful to listen to. I didn't know he wrote the lyrics until I saw it in the cd cover. It is one of my favorite songs. "You Raise Me Up" is also a good song- very patriotic sounding. "My Confession" is also great- the texture and rhythms make it sound incredible. I enjoyed the opening track "Oceano", Si Volvieras a Mi, All Improvisio Amore, and Mi Mancherai (with the beautiful violin accompaniment). Overall, I was very impressed with Josh's second album. Although I have absolutely no understanding of what he is saying in the foreign songs, he still sounds great. Get "Closer" to Josh and you won't be disappointed.
Rating:
5 Excellent!!
This CD is amazing! I was speechless when I heard it for the first time! Josh has an wonderful voice and he is so talented!! All I can say is that I hope we are so lucky to get another, new Josh album! Proudly Grobenite!!!
Rating:
5 Incredible--You Will Not Be Disappointed!
Once again, Josh Groban has put together another fabulous collection of songs, co-writing three of them and playing piano on "Remember When It Rained" (one that he co-wrote). His rich, soothing baritone voice has gotten stronger and even more beautiful since his debut. On this CD we are treated to songs in Italian, English, Spanish and French. Even though we can't understand the lyrics, the meaning of the songs shines through. This second CD from Josh is an enchanting collection of romantic, emotionally charged music-I think it is even better than the first, if that is possible. After seeing him in concert, all of the songs have been brought to life-there is not one that I will skip! I listen to it constantly-on the computer at home, work, and the car. I'm sure that anyone who liked the first CD will fall in love with this one, and he should gain some new fans with it. If there aren't any Grammy nominations for closer, I will be surprised!
Rating:
5 A little range reach but "Closer" to roots of appeal.
I love music - all kinds of music. But the music on this cd seems almost tailor made for what my heart loves to hear best. David Foster has this incredible way of building a movie set of music around a spectacular voice. The effects are dramatic and to Josh Groban's interprative credit not melodramatic. Josh Groban really took a couple of risks here, he cowrote and plays piano on "Remember When It Rained". It's great to hear something a little different from him even if it isn't the best track on the cd. Some of the tracks sound a little saccharin like "Broken Vow" - the live version on the cd/dvd was better but "My Confession" is a wonderfully elegant ballad that takes Josh's voice to a higher range and works majestically well. Some of the tracks are absolutely spectacular like "Mi Mancherai" which includes some of the most expressive violin from Joshua Bell and "Oceano" which also includes musical arrangements that compliment and frame Josh's exquisite voice. Josh Groban's absolute pitch, warmth and power are showcased so well but this cd illustrates some lovely diversity not seen in the debut. It's hard to ascertain what Josh Groban is conveying when he sings but the aura of emotional distancing doesn't interfere with the extraordinary delivery on each track, it creates an appealing mystique. Even if a couple tracks are skippable - the cd overall is a demonstrative delicious big bang.
Rating:
5 there's no need to think twice.
josh groban has toppled his entire career with such an album as CLOSER. intricate violin, incredible piano, and the gorgeous language of italy compile to create an amazing experience. there is also a rare french song in there which is just indescribably and inescapable. it is an aura that sets your mood to the friday night candlelit dinner while you fall asleep in the most peaceful and beautiful manner possible. if you had thought you had to think twice before you got this album being afraid that a few tracks would only count as something to your liking, fortunately, you're wrong. it is an album in which every song is spectacular.josh groban is simply fantastic and this is an album worth getting if you want something to completely dive into.
Rating:
5 I love his voice
This man has so much class and style. I just love his voice. I love it so much that I actually bought a voice lesson CD on Amazon, Voice Lessons To Go by Vaccarino, so that I could train my own sound to sing along with him ( I think it's working!). Am I crazy? If only he would ask me to sing back-ups on his concert tours!By the way I love to play this music while I am cooking a big meal it is so relaxing!
I first became addicted to Josh Groban's voice when he released his first album. After this one they may have to put me in rehab! ;) Each and every song on this album is experatly crafted and (most importantly) sung with powerful emotion by a beautiful voice. From the first track "Oceano" to the last track "Never let Go," I was spellbound. Each and every song is amazing. Some of my personal favorites include: "When you say you love me," (really how could you NOT love that song?), "per te" (i had no idea what the words meant but I was moved to tears neverless), "broken vow" (bitter sweet and moving), "remember when it rained" (probably my favorite-Josh wrote, sung and played the piano for this song...ah a man of many talents!) "you raise me up" (I cried over the super-bowl appearance), and of course the opening and closing songs with all other in between. I love this CD and know that anyone who listens to it will too.Btw- anyone who wants to know translations to josh's lyrics (from both albums) can easily search on a search engine such as google for josh groban lyric translations and tons of sites will pop up with what you want. (i do recomend that you listen to the song first, otherwise you'll be mentally translating the lyrics into english in your head without hearing the song.)
Rating:
3 You hear one, and you hear them all
I expected to see some variety in Josh Groban's second solo album, but I was disappointed. Even with French and Irish tunes exploited, still they were arranged in the same style and therefore sound very much the same, plus the over producing, in the end it is Josh Groban debut all over again. Some tracks, had they been produced simpler, could retain more individuality and the beauty that comes with it. Having said this, I think Josh Groban has obviously put more of himself into the singing, and we now hear more of his high register. His "Caruso" is good, although really not in the same league as Andrea Bocelli.
Rating:
5 absolutely spectacular
I have been hooked on Josh Groban's voice since I first heard him sing on Ally McBeal some 2-3 years ago. I practically wore out my first Josh CD because I loved it so. Closer is a good CD, but probably not as good as the first. His voice is spectacular and his delivery is impecable. The only thing I was disappointed by was that it seemed that most of these songs were slow and less upbeat then the first CD. I would love to hear Josh just cut loose and sing the things he really loves. I was lucky to get the internet limited edition CD that has 4 extra songs on it, he does an interesting arrangement of Lincoln Park's " My December" and a melancholy rendition of the old Micheal Jackson song "She's Out of My Life". I am trying to get everyone I can hooked onto Josh because it's so rare to find someone with real talent in today's music world of prefab groups and artists. Josh is the real deal, he doesn't need fancy dance steps and lipsyncing, his talent stands alone. I have my ticket and am looking forward to seeing him in concert. I have no doubt that he will continue not to disappoint. To make it simple: BUY THIS CD!
Rating:
1 0 Stars
What the world needs now is NOT an opera version of Clay Aiken! or should I say opera-wannabe version. Do yourself a favor and get the "Cabaret" soundtrack of the movie for some REAL MUSICAL TALENT. F-(-)
Rating:
5 AN ABSOLUTE MASTERPIECE !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I was wondering how Josh could possibly top his debut album, but HE HAS DONE IT!! Closer is stunning!! I have been playing this non-stop since I got it-- the day it came out. There is only one song that I would have left off the album: 'When You Say You Love Me'. For some reason, that song does nothing for me. ALL of the other tracks are wonderful, especially Mi Mancherai and Per Te. Mi Mancherai is the FIRST MUSICAL PIECE EVER to bring me to tears! The combination of Josh's voice and the brilliant violin work of Joshua Bell is BEAUTY BEYOND WORDS!! Also the diversity of this CD is amazing: Everything from an "Irish gospel" sound (You Raise Me Up) to a song that sounds like something Sting would sing (Never Let Go). I hope Josh writes more songs for his next album, because the three songs on Closer that he co-wrote are outstanding ('Per Te', 'Remember When it Rained', and 'Never Let Go').I would like to clear up something that another reviewer said. The internet version of Closer (that contains 'My December') is NOT available 'only to Grobanites'. ANYONE can order this version by going to JoshGroban.com. It's just not available in stores. I would also HIGHLY RECOMMEND the Limited Edition of Closer (available here at amazon)--the extra cost IS DEFINITELY worth it! The DVD is outstanding, and the track 'Mi Morena' is worth the extra cost alone! Gorgeous! It is unfortunate that this track was not included in the regular version of Closer.Josh Groban is a blessing to the world!
Rating:
5 Another Excellent Album
For those of us who have been fans since the beginning, two years seems like an eternity for new material. Though he released a little tibdit, "Josh Groban in Concert", we've all been waiting for the next cd. Well, it's finally arrived. I am a fan of Classical music and vocals, and the way Josh combines them is so unique, in that he makes classical music appealing to a wider audience. Even if you can't understand exactly what he saying, whether he's singing in Italian, English, Spanish or French, he expresses so much emotion that you don't have to know what he's saying to understand. I enjoy this cd even more than the first, if possible, because it has a more diverse selection than the first, while still staying with what he's known for, his own brand of "pop-op" (pop opera, or classical pop). Tracks like "Oceano" "Broken Vow" and "Hymmne A L'Amoure" show the diversity in tone and feeling the human voice can convey. Overall, another EXCELLENT album.
Rating:
5 An absolutely breathtaking voice!!!
I think there is no sound more beautiful than Josh Groban singing in Italian. "Closer" once again proves why. "Mi Mancharai," probably the song with the most classical influences, sends shivers down my spine. Josh's phrasing in this song shows just how much he has grown musically. The opener "Oceano," a programmatic song reminiscent of a John Williams film score, finds Josh's voice undulating between major and minor with absolutely perfect pitch. "Closer" reveals many songs that sound like they are from a grandiose film score.Two of the English songs, "When You Say You Love Me" and "Broken Vow" have a pop appeal and have great potential to become hits on Adult Contemporary radio. These songs do not have the expansive sound as some of the others, but they embody a simpler, more intimate sound.Perhaps Groban should have waited a few years to record "Caruso," a tribute to the great tenor, and "Hymne a l'amour," originally sung by the great Edith Piaf. These songs call for more emotion than he is able to muster.Overall, this CD is a huge leap for Groban. The song choices are stronger and his voice sounds more mature. In fact, Josh's compelling voice alone makes this CD well worth purchasing.
Rating:
5 What a voice!
I have to say, this cd took my breath away!!! This was my first cd of his that I listened to (my aunt gave it to me b/c she had extra copies) and I completely fell in love with his voice. The first cd is also excellent, but I think I like this one more. I think what makes this cd so wonderful is the level of passion that Josh puts in to each and every song. Some of my favorite songs are "Oceano", "My Confession", "When You Say You Love Me", and "You Raise Me Up" However, my absolute favorite is "Mi Mancherai" especially with the beautiful violin accompanying it. That song especially has so much passion, you just want to start singing with him! He sings in Italian, Spanish, French, and English, and let me say he sounds like he was born speaking each of these languages. For those that have complained in their reviews that you don't like this cd b/c he doesn't sing in English and you can't understand...maybe you should try exposing yourself to more cultural things. For one, it's not that hard to look up the translations on the internet. Also, even without understanding the words, I can still interpret what he's singing about. Josh has the wonderful ability to convey emotion and passion through his voice and music, he doesn't need the words to do that for him. I still want to laugh or cry when I hear his songs, regardless of whether or not I understand the words. I also think it's great that the other languages help make the cd appeal to other cultures, not just english speaking countries.He wrote the lyrics to "Remember When It Rained", which is an absolutely stunning piece, and coproduced 2 other songs I believe. I think it's great that he helped with at least a few songs, it shows that he's dedicated to his work. I strongly recommend this cd, it's definitely worth it! I definitely expect to be hearing more from him in the future, he's an incredibly talented young man and I highly recommend this cd!
Rating:
5 A Voice For Your Soul...
This cd is amazing! Josh Groban has the most beautiful voice I've ever heard and if he doesn't move some part of you, you must be made of stone! My favorite song on this cd is "Si Volvieras A Mi" This song is about a lost love. The title means loosely "Return to me" It's so beautiful and powerful! He sings it with such feeling that you can't help but despair for him!"Per Te" is another beauty. It means "For You" It's basically a song about how much he loves someone and what he'd do for them to show that love. Josh co-wrote the music for this song and he did a beautiful job. "Mi Mancherai" is the theme from "Il Postino" made into a love song. Joshua Bell plays the violin so beautifully on this song. His part was specifically written for this song and it melts in with Josh's voice so well! "Remember When It Rained" is an original song by the master himself with some help on the music from Eric Mouquet. He also plays piano on the track. There is also a song on here, a duo with Deep Forest called "Never Let Go" It's a great song, kind of slow and electronic sounding. He wrote the words for this song while Eric Mouquet wrote the music. This album definitely shows how much Josh has grown as an artist. It's a beautiful collaboration of music and voice, one that you won't be disappointed in! If you can swing it, you should get the special editions with the extra songs. "Mi Morena" is typically Spanish sounding and beautifully sang in a falsetto voice in certain parts. It's one I find myself repeating over and over. There's also "You're the Only Place" which was barely sung on his PBS special and also sang by Nick Lachey (though Josh does a MUCH better job) That song is so incredible! You can feel the pain of loss as he sings it and you wish for him to reunite with his love again. This cd is so amazingly done, you'll be remiss if you pass up the opportunity to buy it either for yourself or a loved one!
Rating:
5 Blew me away
This guy and I are the same age and I cannot believe that wonderful voice comes out of him. This CD is a must get and I am glad I bought it. It is a perfect way to relax after a long day- his voice just soothes you. Favorite tunes are of course Oceano- also Mi Mancherai, Per Te, and Remember when it rained. He packs so much power into his music and Thank God for whoever discovered him!
Rating:
5 Magnificent voice!!! I love Josh's voice & this CD!
This 2nd CD is even better than Josh's first, and that was a great CD itself! Josh's voice itself is an incredible instrument! His talent, especially at a young age, is nothing but awesome! His songs move me, reach inside my heart, & touch me deeply. Some have brought me to tears simply because they are so achingly beautiful. Josh has nowhere to go but up! I eagerly await his next CD! As I said, I also have the 1st CD, including the DVD with the concert from PBS. It's FANTASTIC! And he, unlike other so-called singers, did the most magnificent job of singing at Super Bowl XXXVIII. His song was absolutely the highlight of the entertainment! No one can touch him--Josh has such an incredibly beautiful voice! I don't even mind listening to him sing in other languages...I just love to hear his magnificent instrument of a voice! There's no one else like him & the sky's the limit for him! Thank God for such an amazing voice & talent! Truly breathtaking! I will ALWAYS be a fan (& I'm not young--I'm 43 but his songs transcend age or background). Buy this CD if you love absolutely haunting, achingly beautiful music! You will NOT be disappointed! I can't recommend it highly enough!
Rating:
5 Music at its best!
To describe this CD, only one word comes to mind: amazing. Being familiar with Josh's first album, the growth in his already extraordinary voice is more than evident to me on "Closer." He challenges himself with higher notes and more powerful melodies, along with more sensitive and seductive ballads - and does it all with supreme skill and grace. To speak the truth, I am not a huge opera fan, but Josh's voice is so clear and beautiful that you cannot help but marvel at it. Josh adds a modern edge to classical-sounding pieces, with contemporary beats and innovative orchestral arrangements. While this album obviously leans more into a more edgy, modern-pop feel with songs like "Never Let Go" and "My Confession," "Closer" certainly does not lack Josh's trademark tender ballads. His velvet voice soothes the soul on romantic tracks like "Hymne A L'Amour" and the magnificent "Mi Mancherai," featuring talented violinist Joshua Bell. And while about half the CD is in a foreign language (either in Italian, French, or Spanish), the English songs are truly breathtaking, with touching lyrics and flowing melodies. On "Closer," Josh adds to his already promising potential by showcasing his songwriting talent, composing the music for "Per Te" and the lyrics on the moving "Remember When It Rained" (where he also plays the piano) and "Never Let Go." Overall, Josh straddles the pop-classical-opera line with captivating ease and beauty. This is truly a wonderful album, and it leaves the listener with an insight into the amazing potential of this extremely talented young artist.
Rating:
5 Better Than Ever
I've adored Josh Groban's rich tenor voice from the first time I heard it a few years back. I was floored by his first record, and on "Closer", the singer is back - and better than ever. It's obvious that Josh has matured over the last few years, and the inclusion of so many Italian - language pieces are a testament to his growth. Hearing the beautifully - pronounced lyrics only adds richness to the deepness found on English - language songs.Every track on this record is amazing, but some simply deserve spotlight recognition. In no particular order:'All Improvviso Amore': This is easily my favorite piece on the album. It is both fiesty and uplifting, and brings to mind images of ships on the high seas. There is a vitality and rawness to the song, yet it is still gentle.'My Confession': Reminiscent of a Spanish love song, 'My Confession' is heartfelt, passionate, and even sensual in its lyrics and message. Josh's tender vocals only add to the emotion.'Oceano': The first track on the record, 'Oceano' makes Josh's maturity immediately recognizable. His comfort and fluency with the Italian language is evident here, as is the power his voice has.'Remember When It Rained': Written by Josh, it is a heart - breaking song of love lost. This one may well be his next big hit, as it is tender, soft, and so beautiful it's nearly painful.'You Raise Me Up': His current radio hit, 'You Raise Me Up' is a beautiful cross between southern gospel and Irish mysticism. It is a warm song detailing the greatest of all relationships.As amazing as his debut album was, Josh Groban has outdone himself with "Closer". It is a record that will go down as one of the best ever made, full of beauty, passion, and a tremendous voice.
Rating:
5 Josh's sophomore album well worth the wait...
On "Closer," Josh Groban's second album, the young singer had much more influence over the final product, including songwriting collaboration (Per Te, Remember When It Rains). His surprisingly quick rise to stardom was aided by multiple guest appearances on now-defunct Ally McBeal, several primetime interviews, and performing at the Winter Olympics. Far from a one hit wonder, Josh's talent continues to mature. "Closer," like his eponymous debut, has managed to top the Billboard Charts. None too shabby for a 22-year old who's still a senior at his performing arts school (Josh also attended two summer sessions at the prestigious Interlochen Arts Camp in Michigan).The thirteen tracks on "Closer" again showcase Josh's mature tenor on the variety of songs he performs best: Italian film music (Mi Mancherai, from Il Postino, with musical guest Joshua Bell on violin), lush Italian ballads (All'Improvviso Amore, Caruso, Per Te), a Spanish ballad (Si volvieras a mi), a cover of an Edith Piaf classic (Hymne a l'amour), and a beautiful cover of Brian Kennedy's (with Secret Garden) "You Raise Me Up." There are markedly more English-language songs this time around, including a collaboration with the French Deep Forest (Never Let Go). Again produced with the help of legendary Canadian producer David Foster (Lara Fabian, Roch Voisine, CTline Dion, Michael BublT), the orchestrations enhance without overwhelming, creating a dreamy, romantically charged soundscape.The limited edition features two exclusive songs, Mi Morena and She's Out Of My Life, along with a DVD featuring the EPK (Electronic Press Kit) and a behind-the-scenes look at Closer. Mi Morena is one of my favourite songs on the album, and the extra songs and bonus DVD pay for themselves. Josh fans will want to buy the limited edition (there is also an Internet edition with two exclusive songs, My December and You're The Only Place, available from Josh's official website). A wonderful gift for anyone who appreciates classical crossover, a touch of romance, or for the Grobanites in your family who've been waiting impatiently for Josh's new album :-)
Rating:
5 WOW WHAT AN AMAZING ARTIST
This guy is amazing and i think that anybody that disagrees with me is crazy. This is a true artist and it is a GOD given talent also. You have to buy this CD if you really want to hear good music.
Rating:
4 Remarkable voice
My four star rating is given because Josh Groban has, in my opinion, the best male voice out there right now. I bought this CD strictly to hear him sing. In that I wasn't disappointed although some of the song choices leave me somewhat less than thrilled. "Mi Mancherai" is done so beautifully. It is by far my favorite. The collaberation of he and Joshua Bell was genius. Tracks 2,4,6,7, and 11 are also lovely. "Remember When It Rained" was written by Josh Groban and is quite pretty. He plays the piano on that song and does so very well. I hope he will do more playing in his future projects. As for the opinions about "Caruso" being less than well performed, I would have to disagree. The pop sound in some of the songs I could gladly do without. Ideally, he would stick to a more classical sound with the instruments adding to the beauty of his voice rather than detracting from it. This is the only CD I've ever bought the day it came out. I will likely do the same next time. And if there are more violin or piano or cello accompaniments and fewer by electric guitars and drums, I will be thrilled!
Rating:
5 Josh's new album is even Closer to perfection
From the moment I hit "play" with this album in the stereo, I knew I'd never listen to music the same way.Every measure, every note, and every word brings us infinitely closer to musical perfection.Josh's melliflous voice transports you to a world of beauty and art; a comfort zone of incredible harmony and unbelievable range.I was surprised that this album was even better than the first, yet upon more listening it seems natural.Josh has grown as an artist and songwriter,and his voice shows new dynamics on this sophmore effort.He seems to find that spot in the heart that causes your whole body to shiver; he crawls into your spirit and teaches you things about life and love.It's more than a cd; it is a soul-searching experience and a new level of self-actualization.I was particularly impressed with the track "You Raise Me Up."Backup vocals by a full gospel choir, this song WILL raise you up.It's spirituality is impossible to describe.This track is reminiscent of "To Where You Are" on the debut album.And like it's predecessor, "You Raise Me Up" will give you goosebumps everytime.The first English track on this cd is "My Confession", and if no other track on Closer moves you, this one certainly will.It's powerful lyrics are merely a backdrop for Josh's exquiste voice.The song will keep you breathless from beginning to end; you'll hit the repeat button at least three times before you're satisfied to leave "My Confession" behind.The subtle nuances and bufferings in the cd give it polish and pizazz; but without the raw emotion of Groban's vocal acrobatics we would never truly understand the meaning of the word "Music.""Closer" gives us a glimpse into ourselves and the surrounding world. Indeed, it's one step Closer to heaven on earth.
Rating:
5 This is his best CD yet!!! Amazing and brilliant!!
First off, I just want to say how beautiful his music is. I seriously cant belive that at his age he has such an amazing voice!! My fav songs from this album include: My confession, Mi Mancherai, when you say you love me,Per Te, broken vow, remember when it rained, and you raise me up. These songs are beautifully written and sung. He has so much passion and depth to his music. <br /> Someone I saw in here wrote a preview saying " I cant believe he sang, "Theres more to love than only bitterness and lies". I think you are confused about that line. I think you should read the words as you hear the song and you would get what hes trying to say. Its actually a sad yet beautiful song! Anyways, I think the CD is wonderful and I listen to it most everyday........I give it 5 stars!!!!!!!!
Rating:
1 The singing robot
Josh gorban has the most boring voice i ever heard it is so perfect pristene and boring. I would like this sissy to show some emotion when he sings. This guy is popular becasue middle age house wifes and lonely old hags like his boring music. Also this guy is in his early 20s why does he sound like he is 60. Old ladies there is better music out there but this review would be longer than war and peace if i were to name all of them
Rating:
1 This Is About As Stupid As Horse Poop
Bah, bah, bah kiss my ass this is the worst crap in the world why can't Josh Groban just go do some real music like Manson and NIN
Rating:
5 The next Andrea Bocelli?
I first heard Josh Groban on his album JOSH GROBAN, and decided, hey, I should check this other one out. CLOSER is incredible! His voice is incredible. Josh Groban can SING. Holayyy. And it isn't even just the strength of his voice; it's his range, and his tone. He's probably the best tenor of recent years.
