Traditional pop standout Michael Bublé remains consistent on his 2018 album, Love, featuring classics and a couple of brand-new songs.

Being a traditional pop artist doesn’t naturally lend itself to being incredibly innovative or revolutionary. No, the key emphasis is on ‘traditional’ – reprising, reminding, and re-familiarizing people of the timeless standards of old.  Michael Bublé has been a champion of this throughout his career.  Besides doing a fantastic job of presenting the classics, he’s also been able to slip some compelling originals in, such as “Home”, “Haven’t Met You Yet” or “It’s a Beautiful Day”.  Once again, Bublé maintains consistency on his 2018 album, Love, which arrives two years after Nobody but Me (2016).

“When I Fall in Love”

“When I fall in love / It will be forever / Or I’ll never fall in love.”  Ah, that old traditional standard, ✓ “When I Fall in Love” has been covered by numerous artists.  Even so, it never grows old.  The same could be said of the interpretation in the hands of Michael Bublé. “When I Fall in Love” commences with a ‘lovely’, dramatic string introduction.  As always, Bublé sings with a beautiful, rich vocal tone.  Given the slow tempo, he takes his time singing, truly flaunting the sheer gorgeousness of his instrument.  It takes north of a minute for the jazzy groove to kick in. Regardless, “When I Fall in Love” remains dominated by its lush strings, accentuating Bublé’s sensational vocals.  While it’s arguably a wee bit too slow, “When I Fall in Love” is ultimately and incredible way to kick off Love.

Following the balladry of the opener, the tempo picks up some on the Al Dubin/ Harry Warren-penned 1930s standard, “I Only Have Eyes for You.”  Bublé does the record ‘justice’ vocally, while musically, the backdrop is a lively big band.  The musicianship continues to be impressive.  Following two covers, original ✓ “Love You Anymore” arrives, co-written by Charlie Puth, and co-produced by the legendary David Foster. Expectedly, the record features excellent production.  The bass/guitar tandem is a great accompaniment for Bublé, particularly the chords. The subtlety of the backdrop is one of its biggest selling points.  For the most part, the record remains even keel. Bublé continues to deliver a beautiful, well-rounded vocal performance, never forcing things. Lush and smooth supporting vocals only provide more ‘fuel for the fire’ for Bublé’s lead.

“La Vie En Rose”

The beloved gem ✓ “La Vie En Rose” pairs Bublé with a fellow Grammy-winner, the incredibly gifted jazz vocalist, Cécile McLorin Salvant.  With two high-level vocalists, the vocal chemistry and musicianship exhibited is nothing short of awe-inspiring.  The late, great Edith Piaf certainly would’ve been proud. One of the surprises of Love is a more ‘radical-than-expected’ take on✓ “My Funny Valentine.” Sure, Bublé maintains the sanctity of gem, but the production goes more ‘outside of the box’ at times.  It still brings plenty of traditional elements – strings namely – but also incorporates a unique groove and keyboards/synths.

If “My Funny Valentine” is too liberal for some traditionalists, vintage rhythm and blues classic “Such a Night” (penned by Lincoln Chase) plays directly to the base.  Bublé successfully conveys the ‘tongue-in-cheek’ nature of this rollicking gem, further amplified by the cooking big band.  Bublé contrasts the rock/R&B/swing of “Such a Night” with another original, “Forever Now.” While “Forever Now” isn’t necessarily the very best of Love, it is a thoughtful pop ballad, and another welcome addition to the Bublé collection.

“Help Me Make It Through the Night”  

Loren Allred, known for her performance of “Never Enough” from The Greatest Showman, assists Bublé on the Kris Kristofferson classic, ✓ “Help Me Make It Through the Night.” The country record arrives in timely fashion, providing a fine stylistic contrast.  The vocal chemistry between Allred and Bublé is superb. Bublé doesn’t do anything ‘out of the ordinary’ on “Unforgettable,” but he doesn’t need to.  Ultimately, it’s another radiant performance, further amplified by those magical strings.  He follows balladry with a lively, swinging take on “When You’re Smiling,” the penultimate record on the standard edition of Love. Again, there’s nothing radical or game changing, but it’s another strong offering.  Staying true to the contrast of faster and slower numbers, Hart/Rodgers classic “Where or When” concludes Love respectably.

Final Thoughts

All in all, Love is a sold, well-rounded traditional pop album.  While Michael Bublé doesn’t take a ton of risks, there are enough to keep things interesting.  No, Love (the album) won’t change your life, but it will enhance your music collection, particularly if you are an easy listening enthusiast.  Consistency should be Bublé’s middle name.

✓ Gems: “When I Fall in Love,” “Love You Anymore,” “La Vie En Rose,” “My Funny Valentine” & “Help Me Make It Through the Night”

Michael Bublé • love • Reprise • Release: 11.16.18

Photo Credit: Reprise