One of the most critically acclaimed records of the year, Neil Diamond's "12 Songs" is now available in a Deluxe Package (just in time for the holidays). A 2-disc limited edition release of the legendary musician's sparse and soulful original album includes never heard before behind-the-scenes material from the Rick Rubin sessions. Disc One is the original cut of the much heralded album "12 Songs" plus two bonus tracks; 'Men are So Easy' and the amazing single; "Delirious Love" featuring Brian Wilson. Disc Two is the special release "Artist's Cut - 12 Sketches". This music lovers' collectible offers a rare and groundbreaking look into Neil's creative process, featuring alternate takes, demos, early versions and an exclusive insight into his first time collaboration with uber hip producer Rick Rubin.
Forget for a moment that you're a sophisticated consumer of music with a mercilessly low tolerance for schlock: Neil Diamond--"Cracklin' Rosie" and "Forever in Blue Jeans" be damned--is going to break your heart. 12 Songs, the hotly anticipated collaboration between Rick Rubin and the formerly jumpsuited Don Juan, exceeds all hopped-up expectations, deflating fans' concerns that their hero might fall flat on the frames of his huge sunglasses in attempting to turn out something hip and harnessing what sounds like decades' worth of untapped, superior songcraft instead. There it is on "Captain of a Shipwreck," a declaration of love that skims the poetic with its promise that "If you're captain of a shipwreck/I'll be first mate to your shame," and around it comes again on "Hell Yeah," a life-affirming, rumor-debunking anthem fairly bursting with bravado (think "I Am...I Said," but with context). Bravado aside, expect no pulled punches here. Rubin's masterful approach is to let Neil Diamond do what Neil Diamond does best, and that is to strap on a loose guitar and let those teflon-ravaged vocals ride over it. Some rides, of course, are smoother than others--Brian Wilson's guest spot on bonus track "Delirious Love" is so melodic and harmony-rich it ought to have sails attached, while "What's It Gonna Be" sounds like something snatched in a pre-dawn lark from a Leonard Cohen disc. All of it is lovely, every last track. A respectful rescripting of the legend, a la the Rubin-aided recasting of Johnny Cash after 2002's American Recordings, is in order. --Tammy La Gorce -- This text refers to an earlier release of this album.
Customer Reviews:
Avg. Customer Rating: 5.0 / 5.0
old time listner:
Just okay for me. A little redundant after all these years. A lot of his music is beginning to run together and not real standouts. He loves his music; I'll give him that. I own most of it!
Simply Brilliant:
Neil Diamonds Twelve Songs Album is equal to his best.
If you loved Hot August Nights youll love this.
Its a much more matured outlook on life with love and wisdom to burn.
Straight talk'n and beautifully mastered a must for all Diamonds fans.
Thankyou Mr Diamond for showing the way once again.
thanks again, rick rubin!:
neil diamond has always had a great voice. what he hasn't always had is a producer who can take that incredible voice and craft it into a great album. well, rick rubin is as good a producer as can be found. his work with johnny cash was astonshing. now mr diamond gets the same treatment. the resulting album is a stunning piece of work, showcasing a stark, uncluttered sound that is pristine and gorgeous. a great set of songs from beginning to end, sung with breathtaking sensitivity and skill. Q magazine... more info
12 (or 14) Songs:
It's been interesting to read the various reviews of Neil Diamond's "12 Songs" album. Opinions are basically unanimous that it's his strongest album in a long time, and I can't disagree with that. Over the last 30 years, the number of albums from which I've really liked most of the songs has been in the minority. That said, there have always been at least a few gems for me, and I've had no trouble remaining a loyal fan, especially since the Internet made it easier for me to attend some concerts (I moved to... more info
