Bob Mundy: Something Beautiful
Bob Mundy
Something Beautiful
September 30, 2014
Reviewed by John Hoglund for Cabaret Scenes
It makes sense that there’s something beautiful about Bob Mundy’s aptly named debut CD: Something Beautiful. He is an easy listen who pours himself into his songs with great flare. The eclectic mix covers a wide range of songs from several genres. And, he does it with class and respect for the songwriters. With an impressive résumé of work in film, theater and the business world, his exposure to cabaret, thus far, has been limited. Hopefully, with this sweet album, that will change.
Recent shows at The Laurie Beechman Theatre have started a buzz, and he seems on his way toward more recognition. He has a lot to offer. Vocally, his is an expressive, lyric baritone that is easy on the ears making for a fine recording with terrific highlights. Among those is a heartfelt delivery on “Laura.” This is also true on a well-crafted “Something Good” fused with an exceptional “Do I Love You Because You’re Beautiful?,” which is one the album’s finest stand outs.
While the mix includes many terrific gems, not all cuts are as carefully thought out as others. “Diamonds Are Forever,” an odd choice, is minus the heft needed, in spite of a showy delivery. Same with “Besame Mucho.” Both are usually reserved for piano lounges where they remain favorites. With his a solid voice, Mundy might have chosen less familiar material that offer more intimate messages. The best example is the excellent job he does on the more weighty “Two for the Road” that emanates from a calm center conveying the soft intimacy of a quiet room with a fireplace glowing. This is also true on a poignant “Pure Imagination” that wraps up the album. Both are beautifully sung using a wide range of emotions. Overall, Bob Munday is off to a great start and deserves credit for a fine disc that shows off his impressive vocal chops.
Category: Music, Music Reviews
