Still enchanted
maggiepb | Florence, sc United States | 09/08/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I was introduced to Chuck Mangione and his incredible talent while taking a music appreciation class in 1971/72. That introduction began a love affair with this musician and jazz. I had the pleasure of seeing him in concert last evening in an intimate outside venue and he was great! He performed a few of the cuts from this CD and no one was dissapointed after braving the rain to attend. This one reminds you of his earlier days and there is a peace and maturity here that is welcomed after his temporary absence.I asked him about the possible re-release of Friends and Love and he answered "I wish I could. I don't own it and haven't been able to get the record company to release it again but I sure wish I could. I can't even get it myself!" For those of us who long for a second chance to hear that concert, perhaps a write-in campaign to Mercury is in order!If you have a bottle of wine, a few candles, and an hour or two to just relax, this one will complete the setting and take you to wonderful places."
Getting Better With Age!
Dave Eden | Crofton, Maryland | 04/15/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I'm compelled to write a review of this CD, after having seen Chuck in concert last night (April 13th, 2003) in Frederick, Maryland. I listened to the CD on the way to the concert and on the way home."Everything for Love" is a bit slower than what many might be used to from Chuck. It is, in my opinion, almost a night CD -- one that is great for settling-in for the evening. Tracks 2 and 3 showcase Chuck on the trumpet, which is a rarity in his recordings. But he is impressive on the trumpet, too -- especially on Track 3, "Amazing Grace." Last night, at the concert, he dazzled the crowd with his trumpet prowess.Chuck is simply a great musician. (I never realized that he is very active on the keyboard during his concerts!) Plus, he surrounds himself with the best. The live performance was simply amazing -- he seems to have gotten better with age! This latest CD is a must have, if you at all appreciate good jazz, but especially if you appreciate solid musicianship.If you get the chance, go see him in concert. He is on tour throughout the U.S. during spring/summer 2003. It will be well worth your money! (For his tour schedule, see [his website]"
Chuck Mangione Plays the Blues
10/21/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This album really is a pure soft blues album (except maybe the Fox hunt). The cover of Amazing Grace is wonderful, Slo Ro and Viola haunting, Peggy Hill even a throwback to Feels so Good, and the list goes on.
The album is extremely laid back so maybe he's aging a bit but his playing is still solid but even more subtle and lyrical.
An album that is , overall, oh so sweet.
A simple ensemble, exquisite guitar playing, and wonderful organ playing."