A Broadway star is a breed of singer all his own. He not only communicates emotion with each song, but he tells a story – if not, musicals would make even less sense than they already do. His voice is careful, precise, and clean – a far cry from the raw, ragged talent of rock or pop stars. And as a result, Broadway vocalists don’t typically attain mainstream success. For Broadway vet and Glee star Matthew Morrison, however, it is a whole different story. Morrison’s self-titled debut album was released on May 10 to the delight of Gleeks across the nation.
If I had to compare the album to one of its musical predecessors, I would say that Matthew Morrison most resembles Clay Aiken’s debut Measure of a Man. The album’s first single, “Summer Rain” has reached #21 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary Chart, and had already received airplay on stations like KIIS FM. Admittedly, I was surprised to see the success this track is gaining. Compared to other numbers on the album, the song is bland and weak, not to mention chock full of uncomfortable lyrics. Morrison sings, “Your eyes are begging me to touch you there” with such a squeaky-clean tone that made me wish he’d taken some lessons from the “Sexy” Glee episode 6 weeks ago (yes, I watch Glee). “Summer Rain” has all the trademarks of a Broadway star attempting mainstream success: the vocals are safe, the beats are bland, and the song is – to put it bluntly – lame.
However, I am happy to report that the criticism stops there! Matthew Morrison more than redeems himself with fun, catchy tracks like “Still Got Tonight” and “Don’t Stop Dancing.” What’s more, Morrison has cleverly brought in fellow artists to create a well-rounded album. Sting joins in on the bluesy track “Let Your Soul Be Your Pilot” (off of Sting’s 1996 album Mercury Falling), and the gospel choir singing background makes for a really impressive track. Similarly, Matthew rocks a mash-up of Elton John’s “Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters” and “Rocket Man.” The two incredible songs are made even greater by adding vocals from the man himself, Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (I just love saying his full name… it’s so cool). Morrison wraps up his guest stars with his on-screen love interest, Gwyneth Paltrow, who harmonizes sweetly along with him on a rendition of Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s notoriously beautiful “Somewhere over the Rainbow.”
If you love Glee and think Mr. Schuster can do no wrong, run out and purchase Matthew Morrison immediately. If golden-voiced adult contemporary is your thing, run out and purchase Matthew Morrison immediately. If it’s not your style, hit up iTunes and download “Still Got Tonight” and the Elton John medley. They’ll definitely be worth your while.
