5.0 out of 5 based on 1 reviews. – Customer review on 30/05/2011

Raul Malo's latest CD, entitled Lucky One, showcases yet again Raul's superb ability to perform many types of songs and handle them all so smoothly you'd swear he was born to sing and entertain the world. His albums have brought joy to millions of people and this one is surely no exception. The musicians on this CD include the likes of bassist Jay Weaver, saxophonist Ben Graves, trumpeter Jameson Sevitis, keyboardist Chris Tuttle and drummer John McTigue. Of course, Raul's collaboration with Steve Berlin only makes this album even better. The quality of the sound is absolutely excellent and the artwork is very tastefully done.

"Lucky One" features Raul singing beautifully--his voice reminds me of Tom Jones only much BETTER! Raul's manly voice impresses people but he also sings with so much passion that you open up a bit more to him than you would if you were listening to another singer--and that's special. Raul knows how to touch people's hearts--what a rare talent! The guitar work on the song "Lucky One" is outstanding and the melody works well. I could never tire of hearing Raul perform "Lucky One." In addition, "Moonlight Kiss" has an excellent Latin rhythm and Raul sings this well with a splendid male backup chorus that sounds perfect. Raul sings of a man smitten with a woman while the male backup singers warn him that his love may not be reciprocated for very long if at all. The guys on backup harmonize to perfection. "Something Tells Me" is another great ballad performed with a slower tempo. "Something Tells Me" is a moving number and it really moves me with its natural beauty.

Raul bats "Ready For My Lovin'" straight out of the ballpark; he delivers this without a flaw and you can tell he's enjoying himself as well. What a delivery! "Ready For My Lovin'" is clearly a big highlight of this album. "Crying For You" puts Raul Malo squarely front and center; and I really like "You Always Win." "You Always Win" gets the royal treatment from Raul and it's another gem on this CD. Talk about great country music!

"One More Angel" is a strong and moving ballad about the importance of telling people you love just how much they mean to you while they're still living. Unfortunately, life is merely temporary. "One More Angel" is both strong and sensitive at once; and listen for Raul Malo to outdo even himself on the somewhat dark and pensive "Rosalie." "Haunting Me" shows off Raul's ability to tackle complicated tempo changes and the key modulations between major and minor astonish me. The CD ends with a stunning ballad entitled "So Beautiful." "So Beautiful" was recorded by Raul in his living room--but he didn't stop at just singing this number--he played guitar, keyboard, and bass as well! "So Beautiful" just couldn't have been better written or performed; the keyboard work in particular really enhances the musical arrangement for "So Beautiful." I love it!

Raul's fans will clearly want this album--it was worth the wait. Raul Malo possesses great talent and a love of art and life that comes across in every song he sings. If you don't know much about Raul Malo but you like creative country music, try this CD and discover the genius of Raul Malo. The musicians on this album help to make Raul's material shine like the brightest star in the sky; and I for one can't wait for his next CD.