Basile creates lush, romantic atmosphere.
In a pop music universe of monotonous rhythm, nonexistent melody and cynical lyrics, Patrick Basile’s new album “Natural Man” is an island world alive with romance and magic, a lush musical landscape in which anything good can happen — and does.
From the dreamy, mystical “Skylark,” to the bonus track, a wistful rendition of “What Kind of Fool am I,” Basile’s vocals glide and soar over his rich string arrangements in this classic collection of music from the heart. Although the songs all have a distinctive feel that makes them blend together well as a whole, there are also plenty of surprises.
Skylark, jumps unexpectedly out of an arrangement reminiscent of Barbara Streisand’s “The Way We Were” into a few bars of “gypsy blues”…. on cue with the lyric. Just as quickly it’s back into the main theme. The title cut is the best dance tune on the album, with a suspenseful secret-agent movie soundtrack feel, moving into “At Last,” which features Basile’s strong vibrato on some sliding blue notes and a swinging saxophone solo in the middle.
“Nature Boy” has a fairy-tale quality, with classical guitar and haunting bongos. “For Once in My Life,” sounds like a Las Vegas show tune reinterpreted as only Basile could do. The best song on the album is “I’ll Follow You,” an enchanting love song that reaches spiritual heights. Basile bares his soul to deliver a message of commitment so convincing that it can’t help but touch the listener deeply. His video that accompanies this song, filmed in part along the rugged California coast, adds to the poignancy of this tune.
Also worth mentioning is “For My Valentine.” Basile is one of the few singers who could get away with singing of swimming any ocean or climbing any mountain — and make you believe him. “Cry Me a River” is one of Basile’s best vocal offerings on the album, a bluesy tune with a walking string bass line.
One thing can be said with certainty about Patrick Basile: He is truly a unique artist, with a distinctive voice and an unforgettable style. Sit back, turn the lights down low, pour a glass of wine and let yourself be transported to a misty world full of possibilities of love. You won’t be disappointed.
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