Celine Dion’s new album, You Loved Me Back to Life, is a celebration of diverse talent, reliable vocals and new sounds all rolled into one.
Her first English-speaking album for six years could be perceived as a comeback. The title track (co-written by Adelaide’s Sia Furler) lets the listener know loud and clear that Dion is back, with up-to-the-minute sounds firmly embedded in the style fans know and love.
The album is all about “love” – the ups and downs, the joys and challenges that run hand in hand with the magic. It covers a variety of genres, from pop to R&B and soul, yet Dion’s exquisite trademark tones are well represented and as heartwarming as ever.
This collection is enhanced by two duets: “Incredible” with Ne-Yo, a dynamic powerhouse of a song, and “Overjoyed”, with the incomparable Stevie Wonder. “Water and the Flame” is sultry Celine at her soulful best, while “Didn’t Know Love” explores the highs and lows in a tale of extremes and the places in between.
The life force in Dion’s voice sends a convincing message that she knows every word and has lived every aspect about which she sings, reaching deep into her heart while the listen takes her message straight home to theirs.
“Breakaway” transports to the rock arena, where she changes gears to deliver the full power and control of her vocal gift, while a heartfelt expression of gratitude follows in the moving ballad “Thankful”, which sets the scene for an up tempo version of Janis Ian’s classic “At Seventeen”.
The infectious album finishes on a triumphant note with “Unfinished Songs”, which pumps inspiration through the veins and airwaves.
Dion’s voice is as smooth and palatable as a fine glass of red and her new album, released just in time for Christmas, is a must-add to the collection for existing fans and would be a great gift for new listeners.
