DON MCLEAN
Rearview Mirror: An American Musical Journey (Hyena)
Reviewed by Ron Saranich

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Rearview Mirror is an exquisite collection of recordings from Don McLean's extensive library of live tapes and unreleased studio recordings. Produced by the talented Joel Dorn, the music covers folk ("If You Could Read My Mind"), western ("El Paso"), classic rock ("American Pie," "Vincent", plus "And I Love Her So"), early rock and roll ("Love Me Tender" and "Crying"), and ballads ("It Was A Very Good Year"). All the numbers highlight McLean's spot on vocals and superbly crafted arrangements. The songs sound fresh and engaging without straying far from the original recordings. For instance, McLean's versions of "Crying" and "It Was A Very Good Year" come as close as anyone to giving the original artists, Roy Orbison and Frank Sinatra respectively, a good run for their money. Listening to the songs that McLean himself wrote, such as "Vincent," reminds us just how great a story-teller is McLean. As an additional bonus, a DVD is included from a November 21, 1984 session McLean staged with the Jordanaires at his home, performing mostly western and classic Christmas tunes. Get beyond the hype that surrounded McLean after the initial release of "American Pie" and rediscover the man and his music. You won't be disappointed. Rearview Mirror is a constant delight.

© 2007 - Ron Saranich