Michael Buble’ (pronounced Boob-ley) has been around for a couple of years, instigating a revival of “crooning” evoking memories of Frank Sinatra and other greats of the 40s and 50s. I must admit that I had not listened to his work that much, partly because I usually have 70s or 80s stations on my radio all the time, and also because his first album achieved greater success in Europe and Australia than in the US. In addition, my inclination towards original work may have contributed to my ignoring the Buble’ oeuvre until recently.. to be precise, until I heard the single “Home” that started its rounds of the airwaves sometime last year..

“Home” is an original song written by Mr. Buble’ himself, about someone who longs to go home as he travels the world incessantly. The song was obviously inspired by his travels around the world as he toured to promote his first album.. and it has a sincere ring to it. As someone with an itinerant lifestyle myself, the song immediately struck a chord with me and I would welcome it each time I heard it. I kind of adopted it as a “theme song”, of sorts. “Home” should also appeal to anyone who has been away from their loved ones for long stretches of time, which is pretty much anyone, at least during some time in their lives.

And that no doubt explains why it has been the most requested song on the album, and it has been staying on the charts for so long… though I’m sure Michael’s rich voice and soulful rendition had something to do it as well.. the arrangements are subdued, and the vocals take center-stage. 

What sets Michael Buble’ apart from the younger artists of the day is his obvious talent. During his younger days growing up in Canada, he won a local talent competition for young singers, only to be disqualified for being underage! He won several accolades during his youth, before catching the attention of music producer David Foster who is also credited with discovering Josh Groban, another phenomenal voice.

To come back to Michael, his smooth tenor does justice and more to the standards of the likes of Sinatra, James Taylor, the Beatles and more. His speciality seems to be to take the standards and give it his own twist whether it’s a big-band feel or infusing a little bit of the blues. While “It’s Time” is dominated by “Home”, the rest of the album has a refreshing sound to it, much like his self-titled debut album. “I’ve got you under my skin” stays true to the Sinatra sound, while the Beatles’ “Can’t buy me Love” and James Taylor’s “How Sweet it is” are taken on an exciting trip down “swing lane”. Latin rhythms are introduced into the album with “Quando, Quando” a samba-based duet with Nelly Furtado, adult alternative/hip-hop queen.

Every track on the album stays true to its purpose… let Michael’s voice do the talking.. but the arrangements, though not overpowering, are lush and soothing as well, resulting in a smooth, rich production… one that could set the tone for a quiet evening whether you’re with a special someone, or just savoring the memory of that special someone as you let the music take over your senses..

Web Site: www.michaelbuble.com