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 Has he lost his vocal range? Jun 05, 2009
I've been shocked at the lack of vocal range Neil shows on this CD? Is he losing his voice? Or was it just lazy arrangements?
On the other hand, the clarity of the guitar recordings was very, very strong, and the melodies generally entertaining.
Let's hope this great American singer comes back strong soon.
Paul
 Song Sung Slow Apr 30, 2009
What Rick Rubin did for Neil Diamond is obviously a winning formula, as it scored the 60-ish Diamond his first number one album in his multi-generational career. And for the most part, "Home Before Dark" succeeds in the 12 Songs path, in that Rubin got Diamond to get back to songwriting, then stripped down the production and allowed the songs (and Diamond's rough-hewn voice) to be the focus. It makes the great songs, like "Pretty Amazing Grace" and "The Power Of Two," to shine.
However, someone forgot to remind Rubin and Diamond that some of Diamond's most beloved material is upbeat. Songs like "I'm A Believer" or "Sweet Caroline," be they by Neil or performed by others, were snappy pop with killer hooks. There's nothing on "Home Before Dark" with any snap to it, and after awhile, the album cries for a break from the its repetitive nature. Even the emotional range of co-balladeer Natalie Maines(of Rubin produced Dixie Chicks) can't save an album that rarely even hits mid-tempo. As the arrangements start to meld into each other, you also start to long for the 70's/80's Neil to appear with his spangled jacket and huge orchestral swells, which would have turned the title song into a show-stopper.
"Home Before Dawn" is a pretty good album, and a worthy follow-up to "12 Songs." I just hope that, since Neil has regained his songwriting confidence and commercial footing, he puts a little pep in his step for the next record. Or manybe he and Rubin go the Johnny Cash route and pick some choice material to highlight Diamond's classic voice.
 Home Before Dark is a Gem Apr 24, 2009
Home Before Dark is another great Neil Diamond album, a must for any true Diamond fan. Except for the two bonus tracks on the special edition, all songs were written by Diamond. The lyrics are deep and personal. Pretty Amazing Grace is one of the best Diamond tunes ever. But all the songs are great, and they show the unique song writing and performance talents of Diamond, who has been in the business over 40 years and is still going strong and releasing relevant music. The album debuted #1 both on the US and European charts, an amazing accomplishment. The production is simple and based on acoustic guitars, which allows Diamond's songwriting skills to be in the forefront. Because there is no big production that Diamond has become associated with, many listeners may want more "boom, boom, boom". But do not jump to a conclusion. Listening to 30 second snaps of the songs do not them justice. Each song is unique and special. Listen to the album in its entirety several times through and listen to the lyrics and vocals. This is fantastic, heart felt album that will only grow on you with repetition. Good stuff. Thanks, Neil. I cannot wait until your next album. Keep on rockin'.
Sue Mar 28, 2009
As usual, Neil is great. I thought I had all his CD's, but this has lots of new stuff. Wonderful.
Satisfaction Mar 24, 2009
Product was shipped in a timely manner and in good condition. I like Neil Diamond's music...this ablum was a little slow but he still is a great song writer, singer, and musician.
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