Search - Don Mclean :: Classics

New version of "Vincent" makes "Classics" a collectible.

Jerald E. Mills | Santee, CA, USA | 02/01/1998

(4 out of 5 stars)

"For someone mildly to moderately interested in the music of Don McLean, "Classics" will provide just about anything the listener desires. The original versions of "American Pie", "Crying", "Since I Don't Have You", "Castles in the Air", and "Jerusalem" are all here. For the ardent McLean fan, the album's value is in the new version of "And I Love You So" and a moving new rendition of "Vincent", in which McLean displays a more mature and developed voice than in the 1972 original. Rounding out the album are the lesser-known "It's a Beautiful Life" and a forgettable new version of "Pie". All in all, though, any fan of Don McLean will enjoy this album. END"

Redoing the classics was a mistake

Stephen R. Drake | Phoenix, AZ USA | 09/13/2000

(1 out of 5 stars)

"This CD is false advertizing. I bought it expecting to be getting some of Don McLean's classics. Instead, what I got were only 3 originals and 7 re-dos. The package of the CD doesn't warn you about this and the title "Classics" implies that inside are the classic versions. The re-do of "Vincint" is slow like a funeral procession with a different guitar arrangement. Songs 8 and 9 are extremely boring. If you want classic Don McLean, buy one of his other releases."

Great artist, messed up album

Stephen R. Drake | 05/22/2004

(1 out of 5 stars)

"Don McLean is one of the finest artists ever. This album does not reflect that. Seven alternate takes. The worst one is Vincent. The main line is screwed up, and many songs are totally out of rhythm. Don't Buy this."