Search - Jimmy Roselli :: Mala Femmena

"the dynamic belter of songs"

Alejandra Vernon | Long Beach, California | 09/12/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"That is what many people call this phenomenal singer, and dynamic he is. There have not been too many non-operatic singers with the power and huge range of Jimmy Roselli, and the selections on this CD show the full extent of his voice, which is unique in sound and style.
The songs:
"Passione" is my top choice of the selections gathered here. The intro alone would make this a 5 star CD; it is a great performance with emotion pouring forth in every phrase of this Italian favorite.
"Mala Femmena" is a signature song for Jimmy, and it is a winner.
"The Sheik of Araby" is a fun song, and somewhat reminiscent of Bobby Darin's version of "Mack the Knife".
"I Get the Blues When it Rains" is a big band show stopper, and one where I marvel at Jimmy's breath control.
"(Just) the Way You Look Tonight" would be my least favorite track, even though it is still a marvelous song, because of the tight rhythmic pattern, which seems to rein in some of the usual effluent Roselli passion.There are no liner notes enclosed, the sound is fine, and the total time is an all-too-short 34'42, so it usually gets at least three consecutive plays once it hits my CD player.
Now at the ripe age of 77, Roselli has had a full life, with throngs of devoted fans, and though there are many reasons why he did not achieve the world-wide fame many felt he deserved, his voice isn't one of them. Listen and believe !"