Search - Randy Crawford :: Through the Eyes of Love

Sweet Vocal Jazz Sound From Randy Crawford

Vannie Ryanes | South Orange, New Jersey United States | 10/16/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"If you have never really listened to Randy Crawford or are not sure which CD to buy. Start with 'Randy Crawford, through the eyes of love.' Crawford has a pure 'don't need a microphone' voice. There is a very early Dinah Washington quality to Ms Crawfords voice and style. Be prepared to sing along even if you don't know the words, especially when she sings "Hold On, Be Strong" or "Shine."Crawford's soft 'Diamante' duet with Zucchero is awesome. Buy this CD, you will play it again and again.Vannie(~.~)"

Wonderfully Smooth And Mellow Album

Eric D. Harris | Chicago, IL United States | 08/31/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

""Through The Eyes Of Love" ranks among my personal favorites among my Randy Crawford collection; the atmosphere on this album is one of total relaxation and subtlety. From her re-working of the Journey tune "Who's Crying Now", Randy takes the song, a power ballad for Journey lead singer Steve Perry and transforms it into a Smooth Jazz rendering and perhaps in the process widens the song's appeal to a whole new audience.The talent Randy surrounds herself with on this album is quite formidable and she never squanders it; from producer Michael J. Powell, best known for his stellar work with Anita Baker ("Rapture", "Giving You The Best That I Got", "Compositions"), keyboardist Vernon D. Fails, alto saxaphone great Sadao Watanabe to songwriters Allee Willis, Zucchero, Jermaine Jackson (the glorious "If You'd Only Believe") and even herself, Randy utilizes this wonderful assemblage to her best advantage. The wonderful "It's Raining", a song about lovers making it through a rough spot in their relationship simply shines; Randy's vocals never resort to cheap theatrics, rather her voice tells the story without embellishment."When Love Is New", a song about the newness and mystery that encompassess the beginning of a love affair, has a gorgeous, laid-back minimalist appeal, especially the percussion; defintely a song to listen to with the top down. "Just A Touch", with liberal alto sax phrasings from the great Sadao Watanabe, is another standout track on this album, as is "Diamante", a duet with Italian singer Zucchero (who also garners a co-writing credit), has a great life-affirming message woven throughout it."A Lot That You Can Do" has a funky, groove-laden feel from beginning to end and Randy's vocals make you feel that she really enjoys this song in particular; same goes for "Rhythm Of Romance", another top-down, wind-in-your-hair driving song.Overall, a splendid album, as evidenced in Randy's vocals, the musicians and production. A great Smooth Jazz album by a wonderful and eclectic song stylist. Definitely worth owning."