“Matthew Morrison” Matthew Morrison (Mercury) * * * ½
Even as a “Glee” fan I was pleasantly surprised at how enjoyable this album is. And at just 10 cuts, he (wisely) doesn’t over stay his welcome.
For those that don’t know, Matthew Morrison plays Will Schuester on the show. “M-M” is a likeable collection of tunes that will no doubt be welcomed by (I hate to say it) ‘Gleeks’. Matt combines classic crooning with modern pop elements and light jazz undercurrents for a totally refreshing sound. He scored some nice duets for his first time out too; Sting on a sweet remake of “Let Your Soul Be Your Pilot”, a mash-up of “Mona Lisas & Mad Hatters/ Rocket Man” with Elton John, and Morrison recreates the mesmerizing version of “Somewhere Over The Rainbow” with Gwyneth Paltrow that was first heard on “Glee”. Smart-ass critics will likely dismiss “Matthew Morrison” as a fluffy pop confection, but I’ve liked this Broadway vet’s voice since the first show. This is a fine debut that will be spending some serious time in my CD changer.
Sweet Spots: “Let Your Soul Be Your Pilot” (with Sting), “Summer Rain”, “Mona Lisas & Mad Hatters/ Rocket Man” (with Elton)