Michael Crawford - Michael Crawford The Disney Album (2001/2020)

The Phantom has one of the most incredible and powerful voices on the planet, and the pairing of that with some of Disney's top songs (mostly from films of recent years) seems a sure bet. Certainly, it's a beautifully produced collection, with Crawford backed by beautiful strings and a children's choir on "Your Heart Will Lead You Home" (from The Tigger Movie). He's so eloquent and perfect, though, that some of the whimsy and edge of the original songs is lost on his versions. "You'll Be in My Heart" is pleasantly upbeat in an adult contemporary manner, but lacks the percussive fire and vocal edge of Phil Collins' take. Certain elements of "The Lion King Medley" require a little more grit as well, though he shines on the "Can You Feel the Love Tonight" passage. He brings an emotional power to "Colors of the Wind," but not quite enough of the original spirit. Crawford is much more effective on the simpler ballads like "I Know the Truth" (from AIDA) and especially Dumbo's classic "Baby Mine," to which he brings the necessary grace and innocence. Crawford fans will surely love it, and fans of Disney may enjoy adding it to their collections. But fans of many of these original versions will hardly be tempted to stop listening to the source recordings for this project.