One of the most talented musicians in the last fourteen years, GINO VANNELLI is nothing short of a genius.
He has played with the greats and cemented an impressive solo career covering many styles, all with class and finesse. Most of his work has given Vannelli a place in the hearts of all Westcoast / AOR / AC fans.
On this “Still Hurts To Be In Love” Gino has re-recorded 13 songs from his long career. You get stuff all the way from his early days in the mid-’70s and onwards.
This is an excellent re-arrangement of his favorite songs; Gino doing what he does best. I truly enjoy many of Mr. V’s later work, but here is something about the songs of his youth; the passion of his youth.
He’s returned to these compositions with a new respect and the wisdom of a man who has honed the instrument of his voice. Props to his talented musicians and back-up artists, but as always Gino and his vocal passion are the star of the show.
I did not think “Brother To Brother” or “I Just Wanna Stop” could be done any better, but I was wrong, they are beyond wonderful here.
“Crazy Life” is better than the re-recorded version on ‘Live in Montreal’ and not nearly long enough. I just wanted him to sing it on and on and on. It is a spectacular lead-in to the ’80s classic “Black Cars”.
Talking about “Black Cars”, you’ll be surprised by this new version, in fact, seems a completely new song. I just love, love, love, this arrangement. The musicianship is terrific and Gino’s vocal talents are front and center.
On the other hand, “Wild Horses” (another true classic) is quite faithful to the original with the addition of some vintage keyboards and horns.
All tracks are just marvelous, but the last one “Put The Weight On My Shoulders” is breathtaking. It is a vocal masterpiece, dripping with emotion without any pretense or fabrication. Pure genius.
“Still Hurts To Be In Love” is not another cash-in album of re-recorded old hits. This is an absolute delight.
Recorded at his 59, Gino Vannelli must be one of the best singers around. His voice has never been better, and the musicians are equally great. Production is awesome, deep, organic and clear like a polished diamond.
If you are new to Gino, make this your first CD. If you are already a fan and you think you already have these songs, think again. These are new arrangements and the performances are incredible.
Westcoast / AOR / Classic Rock fans, you were advised: This is Very Gooood.
01 – People Gotta Move
02 – Wild Horses
03 – Hurts To Be In Love
04 – Brother To Brother
05 – I Just Wanna Stop
06 – Crazy Life
07 – Black Cars
08 – Living Inside Myself
09 – Venus Envy
10 – Wheels Of Life
11 – Just A Motion Away
12 – The Surest Things Can Change
13 – Put The Weight On My Shoulders
Gino Vannelli: Vocals, Keyboards
Allen Hinds: Guitars
Sandin Wilson: Bass
Greg Goebel, Randy Porter: Keyboards
Tim Wilcox, Patrick Lamb, Paul Mazzio: Horns
Reinhardt Melz: Drums
Sean Homes, Ed Conard, Leisa Heart: Background Vocals
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