"Loved Me Back To Life" Album | FAN Reviews

[minolli]

I finally managed to listen to the album just now, and first of all, I am so glad I waited until it was released to listen to it. I've only listened once, so just a few initial thoughts:

• For me, this is far and away her best English album since the 90's. (I'm probably one of the few who puts at ANDHC near the bottom of the list.)
  
• Her voice on Breakaway is amazing.
  
• Overjoyed....whaaa??? Why? So unnecessary and painful. That was probably my first and only time listening to that song. I felt like Stevie Wonder was mumbling through the whole song, and it's just so weirdly out of place.
  
• I LOVE the Grammy Nominations performance of At Seventeen. I think there is such vulnerability and honestly in that performance. So, it's a tremendous disappointment that I feel like the production of the album version is so glossy that it really doesn't fit the subject matter of the song. It feels like a wasted opportunity to me -- the magic of that initial performance is gone, and I really miss the more stripped-down version.
  
• Always Be Your Girl -- beautiful melody and production, awkward lyrics. I'm generally not a fan of the "ode to my children" songs she has become so fond of, so I'm not surprised that I feel kind of "blah" about it.
  
• The new production of Unfinished Songs is heads and tails above the soundtrack version. (And I even eventually grew to like the soundtrack version, too!) I just wish they'd kept that last little "hey, hey, hey..." at the very end of the song.
  
• Lullaby is lovely, but I'm glad it was a bonus track. It would've been just as out of place on this album as Overjoyed; it just feels different from the rest of the songs. That said, it's beautiful, and certainly fits as a part of Celine's catalog.
  

So, all that said, I am so excited for next few weeks, when I can live with these songs and really get to know them. I am already looking forward to my second and twentieth and fiftieth listen of this excellent album!

[mebe]

I just finished listening to the album a few times. I really like it! I like the sound in general. It's fresh! But there are clearly some songs that I already prefer. Here are a few comments about the songs:

 

Loved Me Back to Life: Very good song. Perfect as the first single. Love that modern sound. Too bad we didn't have a real music video for it! 9/10

 

Somebody Loves Somebody: Very catchy! Makes me wanna dance! Love the way Celine sings it. She seems to enjoy singing it. Wish it would be released as a single. 9/10

 

Incredible: This song really grew on me. I love it. Love the blending of the 2 voices. l like the lyrics. Love the part around 2:23! Could be a single for sure! The only thing that annoys me a bit is the sound of the piano which is a bit distorted. 9/10

 

Water And a Flame: Not really my type of song. But I understand why some people like it. The bridge is amazing for sure. In general, I find it boring since I first heard it. However, I surprised myself singing it today. So maybe it's gonna grow more. 6.5 /10

 

Breakaway: Amazing song! Love Celine's voice which appears quite different on that one! Could be a hit too! 9/10

 

Save Your Soul: Love that Maroon 5 sound. Quite catchy! It's good to hear this kind of uptempo songs for Celine. 8.5/10

 

Didn't Know Love: When I first heard the 30 sec. snippet I was not impressed at all with that one. But now I can say I like it. Very Celinish to me. Maybe it's going to grow more on me too. 7.5/10

 

Thank You: Another song I thought was boring from the 30 sec snippet I had heard. But finally I like this mid tempo beat. And I like it more and more. 7.5/10

 

Overjoyed: As many of you already said, this song doesn't fit the album. I think it's ok. They have done a good job with it. Should have been a bonus track. Don't really like the kind of finger snapping sound that reminds me of boring Janet Jackson slow songs! hahaha 6.5/10

 

Thankful: Interesting song. Not my fave but I like it, especially the bridge with Celine's voice that sounds like an angel here! 8/10

 

At Seventeen: Many of you didn't seem to like this one. I don't know why but I love it since she sang it at the Grammy's. This song really suits her. Maybe that's why I like it. It's kinda sad and true at the same time. 8.5/10

 

Always Be Your Girl: A bit disappointed by this one. Not bad but it reminds me too much of old material Celine already sang in the past. 6.5/10

 

Unfinished Songs: The surprise on this album!!! Of course I knew the movie version. I knew I liked it but when I heard that new version I was pleasantly surprised. I love when the beat starts, the melody, the backing vocals, the ending is better...There's something about this song really! It makes me happy! I first put 8.5 out of 10 but I think I need to say 9/10!!

 

How Do You Keep The Music Playing: Again another song that is not so much my type. I don't know why but it reminds me of Tell Him, a song I never really liked either. Some parts I like, some others are boring. It's ok as a bonus track. 6/10

 

Lullabye: Ok another bonus track but I prefer this one over the previous one. Good way to finish the album. 7/10

 

So overall for the album I would say 8/10!!

[J081113]

2nd listen review: This album is great.... vocal brillance yay! I'm unsure about a few songs. Celine sounds just great!

 

1. LMBTL....brillant radio hit but not my fav. song. Is it wrong that I"m skipping it? I guess I overplayed it. 3/4

 

2. SLS: Fun and catchy! I like it better than LMBTL!! Euphoric to me! 4/4

 

3. Incredible: Wow great! Esp. when she belts "IINNCCRRREDDIIBBLEE: out! Ne-Yo is good. 3.5/4

 

4. WAAF: Love it! Celine sounds great! Great R and B vibe! 4/4

 

5. Breakway...no words! the middle to end grew on me (as I thought Celine was oversinging) 4/4

 

6. SYS: Catchy love it! It doesn't' sound like Celine! 4/4

 

7. DKL: MY favorite!! Pure vocals no need to go all power ballad 4/4

 

8. Thank You: A sailing song....filler? Hasn't grown on me yet...BTW NeYo wrote it lol? 2.5/4

 

9. Overjoyed: I loved it! I don't know why some didn't like it......4/4

 

10. Thankful: Church ballad! Love it 2/4

 

11. At 17: I adore this song and like it but LOVE The Vegas the version...this is a salsa version 3/4

 

12. ABYG: Don't like it...don't get it.....but the chorus sound better than the entire thankful song 2.5/4

 

13. US: Like it alot better than the movie version. even though that was growing on me..wonder why the changed it? 3/4

 

I don't have the deluxe version just the MP3/vinyl/cd version....

 

3/4 total......... I hope ABYR and Thankful grow on me....

Edited November 6, 2013 at 06:15 AM by J081113

[izadolphin]

Ok, so I listened to all the songs now and enough so that I have a good feel and idea of the album and all songs in it. So I'll give it a go. I unfortunately have yet to hear Open Arms and since it's not released anywhere near me I'll wait for it to be made available on Youtube and add it separately later. This is what I got for now. Here I go!

 

Loved Me Back to Life - I LOVED this song so much when I first heard it, so different and so new (For Celine) and little too much of the "Liiiiife" but still a very strong and powerful song.. A great song and perfect title song. Good first single too I think. Just enough to wet your appetite for the rest of the singles and album. 8/10

 

Somebody Loves Somebody -Very very good song. Definitely a single contender. I'm truly torn on if this or Incredible should be the next single. Both are GREAT and amazing songs. This one is a little more catchy to me though. It gets in my head and stays there.. FOREVER. I loved it. Much bigger/newer than loved me back to life in my opinion. Very heavy beat. One of her best up-beat songs of her career. 9/10

 

Incredible - The voices match so well in this song, I love it. The piano part is too grainy... Very annoying in my honest opinion. Otherwise the song is so perfect. It's a mix between everything that IS Ne-yo sounding with a touch of Celine and then her amazing vocals. It's an "Incredible" song. One of her best duets.. Definitely! This song would be the best chance of her to get a big hit I think, And if it becomes single #2 and does well, the next song (single #3) is sure to get a better chance at radios and for charting. This album has such GREAT potential. I LOVED this song. This was the song I was most excited for since I first heard they were duet-ing a long long time ago. Well worth it! They definitely did not disappoint me at all. The lyrics are corny but still somehow very well written I think. It was a great song to listen to and easy to put on repeat. I love him and I love her sooooooo much. Great combination. Musical genius lol 9/10

 

Water And a Flame - Ok, I HATED the Daniel Merriweather(can't spell his name nor do I CARE) controversy. It hit a nerve and his attitude just lost me on this song forever. BUT.... As much as I hate to admit it, I'm slowly beginning to appreciate this song. I'll never fully enjoy it, or at least not for a long time. But it's definitely growing on me and she does a very good job with her voice on this song. Very "Adele" sounding, and still hinting at her own sound/old self. Good song in the end and I find myself singing the chorus a lot too lol 7/10

 

Breakaway - Ok, with all the hype of this song from all of the fans here, I was kind of not sure I was going to like it as much as everyone else was. But when I really started listening to the song the WHOLE song from the album, OMG, it's becoming very quickly one of my favorite songs of her entire English career. Sooooo POWERFUL, and even emotional. Which is kind of hard with such a powerful vocal, but she manages to do it just right! Also the lyrics are very sad and emotional!! It's heartbreaking. Everything about this song amazes me! Definitely the best of the album! I would LOVE for this song to be a HUGE hit, and if it wasn't for it being the "NOT cool Celine Dion" and an artist over 40 it could very much be a hit too! Oh how awesome that would be 10/10

 

Save Your Soul - Ok, so this one is a little more difficult for me to rate. I did NOT like the preview when I heard it. The chorus vocals are just not for me, too ... IDK just not doing it. But when I finally heard the rest of the song... The rhythm and pace of the song is really great.. I'm even warming up to the chorus. I love the rhythm of the words as she sings them. It reminds me of a song but I just can't think of which one it is Dx. Anyways. This song is very good. A grower. Very easy to get stuck in your head. 7/10

 

Didn't Know Love - Another one where the 30 second preview made me not too excited. It was not as big of a turnaround as save your soul, but I like the chorus and flow a lot more in general. Definitely more emotional and deep than I expected. A nice song a little slow for me, even for Celine. It just didn't fit. I love/hate this one. One day it's a 5/10 and the next it's a 7/10

 

Thank You - I LOVED the 30 second preview. This song was so smooth sounding. Something I really enjoyed. From the preview I thought this would be my favorite. Though the rest of the song did disappoint me a bit, I still think it's one of my favorites. I love love love the chorus, and when Ne-yo chimes in the background my ears melt.. yes, my ears lol. I love it. Very Adult contemporary, very Celine. I love that there's a song like this in the album, it's not so slow that it drags a very upbeat album down, it gives it a simple and happy mood. We don't want or need an album of 100% slow/soft/ballad/up-tempo/"new"/modern songs. This balances the album nicely in my OPINION lol Loved it! 10/10

 

Overjoyed - This song very much does not fit the album. I would have LOVED it if it was not a duet. Her vocals are great. It still doesn't fit but it's not the worst song ever. I think people are a little bit harsh with it. On an album of classics/covers/Vegas songs it would fit and be a great song I think. I'm not a huge fan but I'm not going to pretend it's horrid either because I would rather have more new songs. 4/10

 

Thankful - Love it, Very soulful song. Great cheesy lyrics, though not nearly as cheesy and many other Celine songs ( which is ok I LOOOOVE CHEESE! lol) Her voice sounds amazing on this. Definitely a "Celine" song. It kind of doesn't fit on the album but like I said with "thank You", we don't need an album that is 100% anything. I like different moods and styles like this anyway. Keeps from getting boring and sounding like one long song or tired formula. And the choir at the end was unexpected and powerful. 8/10

 

At Seventeen - After hearing and watching the Grammy performance I kind of had high expectations of this song. But it's not my favorite. It's a good song, would fit well with Overjoyed on a separate album. It's ok to have on this cd too, but I'm just simply not a fan really. not of this version, the live one was much better. This sounds more tailored for an elevator. Sorry dear Celine 5/10

 

Always Be Your Girl - VERY cheesy! But alas, I repeat. I LOVE CHEESE. VERY CELINE too. I loved it. A great ballad and a good edition to the album. The new songs generally I love a lot more than the covers. The 30 second preview gave me high expectations, and it didn't QUITE meet them. But it has a very very good vocal, and very sweet lyrics. She sings all these songs with such emotion. I'll never understand why so many critics say otherwise (About her and other popular divas). This song was a great addition. again, switching it up and not keeping the song just one flavor. Though it might have been better if it wasn't so half and half with the up-tempo and slower songs. As in the songs could have been arranged more favorably. 8/10

 

Unfinished songs - I was not so excited with the movie version of this song. So when I was reading comments about the "new/album version" I was skeptical that it would be any better. But I was wrong. This is how the song was meant. Fits very well with Celine. Definitely a Celine/Dianne(Diane?) song. A little upbeat, but not "modern/new" compared to others. A great Celine classic sound. Love it. Vocals as good as always. Not single worthy but a great song either way. The lyrics are nice too. 8/10

 

How Do You Keep The Music Playing - I love the piano in this song, for that alone I'm giving it a 7/10.. It's very slow, very Celine, very Vegas. It would fit BETTER on a covers/Vegas album. However, since it's a bonus song it's doesn't throw it off like it could. It's a beautiful cover. Her voice in this song is immaculate. One of her better slow songs post A New Day Has Come. We are all kind of harsh about her not having new songs or singing enough up-beat songs and bla bla blah... but honestly. It is songs like this that made us love her in the first place. Her voice shines regardless. I loved it. 8/20

 

Lullaby - Not a huge fan, a little too slow for me. Another song I loved hearing live better. But it is another GREAT vocal. Very emotionally sung too. I like it a tiny bit less than How Do You Keep The Music Playing, and just like that one I think it would fit better with the other covers and Vegas songs. But also, again, as an addition for the Deluxe version it is perfectly fine and doesn't take away from the album itself. 7/10

 

Overall, I'm going with 8.5/10 for the album. She does a VERY good job with this album. It has a very new and modern feel with a still very "Celine-esque" sound. Some gems and classics in the waiting. And very very good songs with amazing potential as hits. I only hope that they get the chance they deserve, though I'm not too hopefully based on Loved Me Back To Life's performance so far. Anyhow, definitely her best all around album since A New Day Has Come. One of her best English albums in general. I am in love all over again.

 

(Forgive me for any typos! lol)

Edited November 6, 2013 at 08:31 AM by izadolphin

[amelie]

There's really nothing more to add...you guys said it all. Overall, I think this is Celine's best record in a while. I would have preferred 10 songs instead of 13 (I'll let you guess which ones did not overjoy me as I feel they are unfinished and yes I am older than 17). Can't remember the last time that I liked so many songs. Although the only ones that blow my mind are LMBTL (still) and Breakaway. Overall 7.5/10.

 

PS. Although I felt that the original Unfinished Songs sounded dated, the new version sounds disjointed to me. I feel the new production doesn't reflect the original spirit of the song.

 

I agree so much if Overjoyed, At 17 and Unfinished songs were left for the deluxe edition, the album would be even more well received by critics. The sad part is that How do you keep the music playing and Lullabye belong more on the standard edition than the former 3 tracks

[Neddo]

A17 and Overjoyed were actually praised a lot

[amelie]

A17 and Overjoyed were actually praised a lot

 

I know, and they're good songs but break the flow of the album, i'd prefer them in the deluxe edition (and i hope climb every mountain sees the light of day someday too )

[Jessyka]

I know, and they're good songs but break the flow of the album, i'd prefer them in the deluxe edition (and i hope climb every mountain sees the light of day someday too )

Agreed.

[ehild]

After listening to the album in full a few times, I have to say I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE, this album!! At first I was disappointed they delayed it by a year but I'm so happy they did. I love the new material. Overall, it's fresh and a new sound for her, which I really like. I think I'd get bored with the same style/type of songs after 20 years (English career wise). I think they did a wonder full job of giving us a new sound for her but not totally botching her either. (I'm thinking certain new Madonna songs versus old Madonna....I much prefer her 80's & 90's stuff to whatever she's trying to do now. Some songs yes but overall, no). You still know it's the Celine we all know and love. I also like that she's not so perfect and disciplined on every.single.song. LOL

 

1) LMBTL: I love this song and I think it's a great title track and first single. Although I think I may have played it a bit too much when it first came out in anticipation of something....anything.....new. It definitely had me so excited for this album's release. And I still love it, though I'll admit I skip it on occasion now depending on my mood.

 

2) SLS: I love this song!! It's so catchy and I find it stuck in my head. Definitely a good single choice and great for radio, assuming they can get on her radio these days. I love how it just kind of picks up towards the end. Reminds of an old MJ or Whitney song but modernized.

 

3) Incredible: To quote NeYo in a recent interview, if this song isn't released as a single or picked up for the Olympic winter games "somebody isn't doing their job". This song is amazing and has so much potential. I'm loving this unexpected collaboration! I really hope Sony uses this as part of their re-marketing campaign for her and the album going into the holidays.

 

4) WAAF: Even though I don't like what DM said about her I have to admit this song is amazing and totally different for her! I love the bridge, too!!

 

5) Breakaway: Awesome! Beautiful! Great ballad and single potential here. She nails it!

 

6) SYS: I love this song. I can definitely hear this on the radio or in the clubs. I do wish they had included the rap interlude with every album, even if it was a bonus. It just adds a little something extra.

 

7) DKL: Another amazing song! I love the grainy, grity, bedroom voice as she calls it. It's a different style for her and another example that she can truly do just about anything with her voice.

 

8) TY: I like this song and it's a beautiful the way it's arranged. Not sure it's one of my faves, though. Not really sure why.

 

9) Overjoyed: I love her and Stevie together. However, I don't think it fits the rest of the album. I think they should've saved this for a jazz concept album maybe or even the Vegas CD, if that's ever released. And I'm not really sure about the birds.........

 

10) Thankful: I feel the same way about this as I do with TY. Love to hear Celine sing it, just not one of may all time faves on the album.

 

11) AS: I like this song so much simply for the fact that I can relate to it so well. My jr-high years weren't exactly the best. I was a bit of an ugly-duckling then. And Celine sings it beautifully! Live and in the studio. That said, I'm not sure the arrangement fits with the flow of the entire album. I like it, don't get me wrong, but for this album I think they could've added a bit more of a beat to it.

 

12) ABYG: I am in love with this song. As a mom, I think any of us parents on here can relate with the meaning of this song. Yes, some of the lyrics may be a bit cheesy but I think a 50 y/o RC, Nelson, & Eddy would appreciate this and it's meaning. I would have no problem telling my child, son or daughter, that "I'll always be your girl". Of course it's not meant in the way some people are taking it but think about it.....mothers are the first woman (or girl) in any child's life, generally speaking. We carry them, give them life, etc. And we'll always be around for our kids.....that's a given I think for most of us on here. We have our kid's backs, so to speak and will always be there to support them and love them. And our lives definitely wouldn't be the same without them. (even if they can be trying and get under your skin at times lol) And of course, I think her voice is pretty flawless with it.

 

13) US: I don't really remember too much about the original version of this but I love this arrangement so much! It fits so well with the album.

 

14) HDYKTMP: I love this arrangement and that's it's a bonus and not part of the regular album.

 

15) Lullabye: I think I prefer this song live in Vegas rather than on an album. It's just too slow for the album, even if it is a bonus song. I do really like the song, just don't think it fits well with the album.

 

I do like the newer arrangement of Overjoyed but I kind of feel like it and AS, as much as I love that song do kinda break the flow of the album overall. Definitely a better choice for the Deluxe edition than Lullabye. I would've preferred OA and AS than Overjoyed on the regular album. OA could've definitely been made to fit the flow of the album and save the rest of the Vegas or a Live in Vegas CD to go with a DVD. Overall, though, I absolutely love the album! It's well worth the wait!

 

So.....yeah, this may be my longest post here! hahaha

[chocolatechip15]

I LOVE THIS ALBUM!! This is easily her best English album since ANDHC – possibly one of her best ever. It’s coherent and mature – and her voice is in AMAZING shape! And after a 30-plus year career, she is still doing new things with her voice and amazing us all!

 

Loved Me Back to Life – not a high point for me, just because I don’t care for this Rihanna-type sound. But it’s grown on me over the past couple of months, and I do like the message of it – also admire the way it manages to sound 2013 and Celine Dion at the same time. 7/10

 

Somebody Loves Somebody - I cannot even express how much I love this song!!! It is irresistibly catchy, great beat, fabulous melody – and Celine’s interpretation is UNBELIEVABLE!! When Celine tries to do attitude in her songs, it often falls flat or ends up sounding silly (see Treat Her Like a Lady) – but this just WORKS so perfectly! There is such rich color in her voice, and listening is just an amazing experience! Also love how much fun she was having singing this on the Today Show. Hope it’s added to her Vegas show. 10/10

 

Incredible – I so didn’t want her to do a duet with Ne-Yo just for the sake of being “cool” or because he’s in and hot right now . . . and this song surpassed my expectations by a million! Love, love, love, it from the very first note (though I wish the piano weren’t distorted). It’s so catchy and also anthemic (makes me want to march for something!) Celine and Ne-Yo’s voices blend beautifully, and I love the chemistry between them. Deducting a point because the lyrics are kind of trite and repetitive, and it seems like the kind of fluff song you might get tired of quickly . . but it totally hasn’t happened yet for me! 9/10

 

Water and a Flame – For me, the lowest point on the album. Not a big fan of the raspy voice, and it just sounds to me like Celine trying to sound like Adele, and trying to sound edgy, without it really being her. Despite myself, I can’t help but like the soaring chorus (“Now you’re gone . . “) but I don’t think it’s supposed to sound soaring . .it’s supposed to be a song of heartbreak and anger and pain . . .and I just don’t think that comes through in Celine’s interpretation – she’s just trying too hard to be edgy. 5/10

 

Breakaway - STUNNING! MASTERPIECE! I really think this is one of Celine’s best songs ever . The raw emotion that comes through – the pain and the beauty – is amazing. The sound here is all-encompassing – you just have to stop whatever you’re doing and just listen. And the way she says “Breakaway” . .it sounds like a physical break . .it’s unbelievable. 10/10.

 

Save Your Soul – This one is Celine doing the Maroon 5 sound . . .not my favorite type of sound, and I didn’t expect to like it . . . but it’s so catchy, and her voice sounds so amazing that I can’t help but like it. (especially “Kept believing every word you say; wrapped up in every kiss you poisoned" - beyond catchy). 7/10

 

Didn’t Know Love -- This one’s not my favorite, because of the raspy voice and not really caring for the melody. But I still love that Celine is experimenting with new styles, and a rawer, vulnerable vocal, and I love the idea of love being both beautiful and frightening. 7.5/10

 

Thank You -- This is the sort of sappy song with trite lyrics and pretty but forgettable melody that makes people roll their eyes when you mention Celine Dion . . . and yet, and yet . . . her voice sounds so amazing that it elevates the song to a whole different level, and I end up loving it (It’s the “Celine could sing the phone book” phenomenon). She also sings the lyrics with such sincerity, and there’s such a sweetness in her voice (especially in the bridge) – that the song becomes something really special. 8/10.

 

Overjoyed - I love it! Sorry, guys. Ok, so it doesn’t quite fit in the album . .the intro is totally out of place, and the birds and hand-clapping sounds get kind of annoying fast . . but I love Stevie and Celine singing together, love the melody and the blending of their voices, love that Stevie was the first album that Celine bought . . . just would have preferred a different production. 7.5/10

 

Thankful – Classic Celine power ballad – fabulous! And – oh, the bridge, the bridge, the bridge!! I have NEVER heard anything like it. She never ceases to amaze. Love!! 9/10

 

At Seventeen – Another new sound for Celine – almost like folk music, in that the focus is on the lyrics, and the not the vocal gymnastics .. . she’s using the song to tell a story, which is quite unusual for Celine’s English songs. As a bit of an ugly-duckling girl myself, I love this song, love Celine’s vulnerability when she sings it, and the life experience she puts into it (how I melt when she sings “A brown-eyed girl in hand-me-downs”). But the crowning version of this will always be the Grammy nominations concert . .maybe I’m affected by that awkward behind-the-scenes video, but this production sounds a bit uninspired. 8/10

 

Always Be Your Girl – There’s a lot to love about this song . . it’s an intensely personal song for Celine – more unusual for her English songs – and those tend to be her best performances. It’s a beautiful melody, her voice sounds incredible (love the color in her lower notes in the verses; the soaring sweetness of the chorus, and again, the sincerity with which she sings it). I also love her explanation in the Billboard interview of what the song means to her. But I think the lyrics really bring it down . . .I mentioned before how the “button on a sleeve” metaphor makes me want to laugh b/c buttons fall off sleeves really easily . . and as a couple of others mentioned . . . there’s something weird about a mom saying “always be your girl” to describe a mother-son relationship; it just sounds “off” . . .even Celine didn’t use that language when she was describing the song (though I understand that what she means is more of what ehild described above). I also think the bittersweetness of a child growing up -- what Celine talked about in Billboard -- is reflected in the melody and Celine's interpretation - but not much in the lyrics. I think I would have liked this song better if it were in a different language and I didn’t understand the words, because it really is a beautiful performance. 8.5/10

 

Unfinished Songs – fun, uplifting, catchy song. This is totally going on my workout playlist – it always makes me want to get up and dance. But it remains just a very good song in an album with some absolutely great ones. 8/10

 

How Do You Keep the Music Playing – Another classic Celine power ballad – she sounds SENSATIONAL, especially in the bridge. But I find this version a bit slow . .it’s just not completely magical for me. Still love it. 8/10

 

Lullabye – Lovely, sweet, emotional performance, but nothing groundbreaking or extraordinary here - a bit too slow. 7.5/10.

 

I do find it a bit funny how they keep promoting this album as being so edgy . . . because the second half of the album is not remotely edgy in either sound or lyrical content, and I think Taking Chances, as a whole, was a much edgier album. But I never wanted Celine to be edgy (didn't much like Taking Chances), and I absolutely adore this album!! Cannot stop playing it!

Edited November 7, 2013 at 01:22 AM by chocolatechip15

[flutefreak]

I'm enjoying reading all of your reviews. I'm agreeing with a lot of the things said here. I really need to live with these new songs a while to see what grows on me to give a proper review but my initial reaction is that this is such a lush album vocally, regardless of if the song got to me or not her vocals are outstanding throughout the whole album. I have to say there is not really a bad song in here, nothing so bad I have to skip in my opinion. While listening to this album I am reminded of the feeling of just being blown away by how good she sounded the first time I saw her live. A few highlights for me: SLS first reaction reminded me of her singing the MJ tribute in the Vegas show, I love it, perfect for blasting in the car! I am having trouble getting into WAAF, too Adele for my taste and the Daniel Merriweather controversy, but it is growing on me. DKL I think this may grow on me, but right now I just don't know. Breakaway gets better every time I listen to it, this may be the highlight of her English career and is soon becoming my second fav song of her's ever. Her tone on it reminds me of the sad sounding, she is crying while singing sound she had on Fly. I hope we get a making of video of this. ABYG, cheesy lyrics but her voice just melts me, it seems so heartfelt and emotional on her part, I can just tell she loves it so much. Love the way her voice sounds on this song so much.

[A cause, A cause]

Yea so I love a lot of the new album from what I have listened on youtube. I don't own it yet I have it on pre-order though. I really like Loved Me Back To Life, Somebody Loves Somebody, Breakaway, Save Your Soul, Thankful, Incredible, and At Seventeen. However I don't like some of the others. I really don't care for the Eg White songs. I don't like her "new" vocal style on the songs and I feel that he produced her all wrong. It just isn't Celine. It actually sounds like she is trying to sing with imperfections on purpose. It sounds more forced and controlled than when she sings in her top notch, pristine, crystal clear voice. There is just something off about it for me. I am not feeling it. Very rarely do I dislike a Celine song. And it is weird for me to dislike two on an album. I also feel that parts of Water And A Flame, and Didn't Know Love sound the same. Something in the line delivery... I don't know. I am also not liking the Stevie Wonder duet. I really think it sounds dated and bland. And I like the original song and a few other versions of it. I just don't think it serves a point. It's dull, and I actually wish that it had Open Arms on the album instead. My top three are Loved Me Back To Life, Breakaway and Somebody Loves Somebody. And because of that I am pretty sure I won't get a video for any of them.... Anyway, thoughts?

[Christi]

Ok I received my copy yesterday and is ready to give my take on the album. I don't think this is a better album than TC, there are more songs on TC that I really really like than on this album. But overall I'm not disappointed. BTW, did you also get the collectible postcards with you're cd's? Very very nice.

 

Loved me back to life

I don't like this song. When I first heard this song I thought, O NO, if the whole album is going like this I won't buy it. Maybe maybe it will grow on me............don't know, will see.

 

Somebody loves somebody

I really like this song. I like the way they start and end the song, sounds like a vinyl playing. I also love the lyrics.

 

Incredible

I love this one, their voices work very well together, the arrangement is very good on this one. Celine could definitely do another song in the future with Ne Yo. And I like the distorted piano, because when Celine start to sing with her pure beautiful voice I get gooze bumps. Did someone said there is a version with a little rap in this song? I didn't hear it, but I'm glad they didn't use that version on this album, I hate rap.

 

Water and a flame

Also very very surprised by this song. When I first heared the 30sec of this song I thought this is one song I will hate (also because of the whole Daniel saga), but, I love it now. I won't say it's a great song but I will not skip it on the cd. I love her performance of this song.

 

Breakaway

This is one POWERFUL song. This song should have been the first single and also the first song on the album. I love the powerful message of this song, it's just wow wow wow!!!! Much better than LMBTL.

 

Save your soul

Hate hate hate this song, I will never ever listen to it not even on the radio. I will trade this song in a second for 'Open arms' (Still don't know why it's not at least a bonus tract on this cd) I hope someone wil load the sudio version on You tube I would love the hear it. I just loooooove that song.

 

Didn't know love

Now this is the type of song from Celine that I adore!!!! I really love this song, the way she sings it, especially the chorus part. Definitely one of my favs on this album. I will easily put it on repeat. This song will be nice to listen to in a bubble bath with just candlelight and a glass of wine ( doesn't matte red or white as long as it's wine lol)

 

Thank you

Another fav. The lyrics is so beautiful. Nice song to play for someone who is really just there for you no matter what. Love love love it!!!!

 

Overjoyed

Like many of you said, it just dont fit on this album. I like Steve Wonder but like someone said he sounds very whiney on this song. It's not a bad bad song, but I won't listen to it very often.

 

Thankful

I'm not crazy about this one. I won't skip it, but it's not that great.

 

At seventeen

I am so in love with this song, the lyrics really touced me, I can so identify with this song.........so glad those days are looooooooooong gone. Definitely one of my favs.

 

Always be your girl

Although I don't have children I still love this song. Nice lyrics, so sweet awwwwww. 'I can melt the drops of freezing rain, I will fly in and save the day.............so beautiful!!

 

Unfinished songs

Like like like it. The lyrics is perrrrrfect. I just love this song, and the lyrics wow wow wow......o sorry I already said the lyrics............just love love it. Did you hear the lyrics........lol just joking around, but I really like the song, love everything about it. I think this will be my most fav song on this album.

 

How do you keep the music playing

Not a bad song, but I must be in the mood for it.

 

Lullabye

A very soothing song, I will listen to it when I go to bed, lights out, with the moon shining through my window.

 

Overall I will give this album a 8.5/10. The only complaint I have is Celine's pronunciation on some of the words, like in 'Always be your girl' I also heared breasts instead of prayers....lol.

 

PS. I hope we don't wait another 6 years for her next english album.

[jack101]

I truly believe this is her best album since FIY and ANDHC. The songs are amazing and her vocals hasn't been this good since the 90's. It feels as if it's the first time she is actually 'singing' the songs.. Feeling them. Have listened to it about 3 times now and all of the songs is still WOW! Although, all the hype about Incredible? IMO the song has NO impact and deepness, it may be good radio material but that's all.

A few songs that stood out:

Breakaway: Amazing! You could hear the emotion in her voice.. From powerful notes to tender whispers whithout breaking the songs powerful flow.

Thankful: Big ballad.. I like it.

Always be your girl: Soooooo beautiful song. I usually hate her soppy songs but this comes from the heart and it touched mine!

SLS: it's modern, catchy and a really good song!

All of the rest is good but these stood out... WAAF is good and it's bridge just owns the original instantly! I truly thinks this is the highlight of her career since her comeback in 2002. 10\10

 

[Wita19]

Finally! I got my CD today!

 

I'm after first lintening. I'm in heaven!

 

Alll I can say is that it was worth waiting! It's definitely better than TC (I love TC too though).

 

I'm amazed how incredible her voice is!

The lyrics are deep and touching.

Instrumental perfection.

 

I'm so so happy!

 

BTW My aunt (60 years old) after listening to one song (Breakaway) asked me if I could buy the album for her!

[Kong]

Loved Me Back to Life – 9/10

What a grand opening track! It represents Celine Dion is back to the music world!

 

Somebody Loves Somebody – 8/10

The phrase: “Bite your tongue before you explode”, somehow reminds me the temper and anger, which I need to learn how to control it. Nice up-tempo song that put anger away.

 

Incredible – 9/10

The message behind this song is good as Unfinished Songs. The “Oh oh oh…” is very catchy, love this song so much!

 

Water and a Flame – 8/10

Interesting song, the bridge is so cool! I think her dry voice suits well with this song.

 

Breakaway – 9/10

Her voice sounds young here. Love this kind of “heavy melody”, very dramatic!

 

Save Your Soul – 7/10

Playful and different style of Celine.

 

Didn’t Know Love – 7/10

When listening to this beautiful song, I feel like having a drink in the bar, lol. Again, her dry voice makes this song modern.

 

Thank You – 6/10

A joyful song that make me feel good and relax.

 

Overjoyed – 6/10

I feel like celebrating Christmas in wonderland with this song, haha.

 

Thankful – 7/10

This song reminds me the 90s Celine. The bridge and last chorus surprised me! Holy!

 

At Seventeen – 7/10

Lovely song that worth to follow every single word she sings.

 

Always Be Your Girl – 5/10

Not my favourite song.

 

Unfinished Songs – 8/10

At the song’s beginning, I’m like holding a pencil gently knocking on the table. When it comes to the chorus, those background vocals are amazing! After the song end is like I dropped the pencil and going to pick it up and start to write or draw something on a paper. That’s really inspiring!

 

How Do You Keep the Music Playing – 7/10

I miss the smooth and flawless voice so much. It is a beautiful gift for us who can’t see her show in Las Vegas.

 

Lullabye (Goodnight, My Angel) – 5/10

Not my favourite song, should replace with Open Arms…

 

For the album, the booklet design is a bit disappointed, but love those postcards! Most of the songs are great, definitely is the best album since A New Day Has Come!

[zuv]

Loved Me Back To Life: Fresh mordern, loving the dubstep, Its like when she came back with A New Day Has Come, it was a bit unexpected. This one even more. My only hope is that it becomes timeless. This song is so addicting like many other pop songs after few months you never want to listen to them again. We'll see what happens. A Big 9/10

 

Somebody Loves Somebody: Amazing uptempo song, I'm loving Celine's attitude on this one. Makes you want to dance or start an imaginary fight with your imaginary boyfriend, lolll. Best parts: "Cause you know nobody else would put up with your games, Ohh" and obviously her voice when she sings: "Some people live their lives, never believing in love, I don't want that for USSSS" 10/10

 

Incredible: I really loved it at first. I still love it, but the excitement toned down after multiple listening. Good beat, great duet. I hope it will be a great success as second single. 8/10

 

Water And A Flame: Another proof that Celine has the most flexible and versatile voice in the music industry. I thought I was going to hate it because of its songwriter, but i can't help myself from singing along, i'm loving that song so much. I hate that i love it! hahaha 8/10

 

Breakaway: Big surprise on this album. Edgy ballad. I can see this song as being a huge hit single. But Sony is too fcktard, I hate Sony 9/10

 

Save Your Soul: wow, wow, wow, Celine really can sing ANYTHING! Her voice is sooo catchy on this one. How can you not dance or sing along?? So addicting...10/10

 

Didn't Know Love: "My Love 2.0" I love it. 8/10

 

Thank You: For that one I was harsh in other threads, and i'll still be. Like I said, this is a failed attempt to recreate BYLM. The only good thing about this song is the presence of Celine's voice. Sounds like a left over of One Heart. Too many "thank you": I hear and say those 2 words too many times during the day to enjoy listening to them over and over. It's annoying. Filler. 5/10

 

Overjoyed: I don't think there's any male duet I dislike, but this one i do. Water claps are annoying. Stevie Wonder voice is nasal and has a lisp. Underjoyed. 6/10

 

Thankful: Thank god this song saved the disappointing second part of the album. Reminds me of Celine from the 90's. Brigde is just magical, then the choir was this icing on the cake. 10/10

 

At Seventeen: Good.... actually excellent rendition of the song, but its a song I will skip often: listening to Celine talking about how ugly she used to be is a bit depressing. 6/10

 

Always Be Your Girl: Sweet little song, but easily forgettable. Nothing exciting. There are big vocals at the end so it might grow on me some day, we'll see. 6/10

 

Unfinished Songs: Thank god they listened to the fans and rearranged it. Much better than the original! Love the editing at the end, her voice is cut off, it's an unfinished song ;-) 7/10

 

How Do You keep The Music Playing: Sweet, loving the "I Knooooooooooooow" but that's pretty much it. 7/10

 

Lullabye: Wrong wrong wrong. Does not belong on this album. it should have ended with an uptempo song like in "Sans Attendre" Bonus Track song "Les Jours Comme Ca" This is not Miracle!! 6/10

 

OVERALL 8/10

 

Not the come back I hoped for. It's as if they lacked inspiration for the second part of the album. Doesn't beat FIY, LTAL, TCOML, TAST or ANDHC. But beats OH and TC by a little.

Edited November 8, 2013 at 07:29 PM by zuv

[québecflower]

great album to do the house cleaning, and when it is a song you like less, start the vacuum

[dj4celine]

great album to do the house cleaning, and when it is a song you like less, start the vacuum

OMG!

[Jessyka]

great album to do the house cleaning, and when it is a song you like less, start the vacuum

 

[uk28uk28]

Hi guys, here is my review:

 

- Loved Me Back To life: as I said before, one of her best lead since That's The Way...I'm not gonna get into the "If it was Rihanna..." thing. It deserves to be on the top of the charts, and we all agree.

- Somebody...probably my favorite track on the album. Makes me want to dance and sing (though I should definitely not!). And her performances live are amazing!

- Incredible: it's a nice song don't get me wrong, but I just don't see why some fans and the team got so excited about it. It's very much always the same piano, the same words, and from around 2:00 until the end it's only "incredible...ohohoh...incredible..." very repetitive. I much prefer I'm Your Angel, if to be compared to another song with RnB singer.

- Water...sooooo good!!!! Makes me want a jazzy/soul type of album!!! The bridge is awesome!!!

- Breakaway: fantastic power ballad, only Céline can deliver such a powerful song!!! I hope she performs it live sometimes on a TV show.

- Save Your Soul: I love it!

- Didn't you know love: at first, I did not like it so much. After a while, it gets better and the lyrics are powerful.

- Thank you: I found it very boring at first. I like it now, but one of my least favorite though.

- Overjoyed: yay! Summer time!

- Thankful: omg, one of my favorite. Especially the end with the choir.

- At Seventeen: amazing performance.

- Always Be...awesome lyrics about her i guess. Best ballad she made for a long time.

- Unfinished...I preferred the earlier version that was released.

 

Overall, I believe this is my favorite album of the 00's. Don't get my wrong I love ANDHC but there are too many different songs (like TC). With LMBTL there is more of a consistency (but overjoyed and at 17 though).

Edited November 8, 2013 at 10:54 PM by uk28uk28

[zuv]

great album to do the house cleaning, and when it is a song you like less, start the vacuum

 

LOLLLL

I. Love. You!

[chocolatechip15]

great album to do the house cleaning, and when it is a song you like less, start the vacuum

 

i am the EXACT SAME way!! i play the album, and time the things that make noise (washing dishes, whatever) to the songs I like less!!

[soleilgirly]

Ok I received my copy yesterday and is ready to give my take on the album. I don't think this is a better album than TC, there are more songs on TC that I really really like than on this album. But overall I'm not disappointed. BTW, did you also get the collectible postcards with you're cd's? Very very nice.

 

Loved me back to life

I don't like this song. When I first heard this song I thought, O NO, if the whole album is going like this I won't buy it. Maybe maybe it will grow on me............don't know, will see.

 

Somebody loves somebody

I really like this song. I like the way they start and end the song, sounds like a vinyl playing. I also love the lyrics.

 

Incredible

I love this one, their voices work very well together, the arrangement is very good on this one. Celine could definitely do another song in the future with Ne Yo. And I like the distorted piano, because when Celine start to sing with her pure beautiful voice I get gooze bumps. Did someone said there is a version with a little rap in this song? I didn't hear it, but I'm glad they didn't use that version on this album, I hate rap.

 

Water and a flame

Also very very surprised by this song. When I first heared the 30sec of this song I thought this is one song I will hate (also because of the whole Daniel saga), but, I love it now. I won't say it's a great song but I will not skip it on the cd. I love her performance of this song.

 

Breakaway

This is one POWERFUL song. This song should have been the first single and also the first song on the album. I love the powerful message of this song, it's just wow wow wow!!!! Much better than LMBTL.

 

Save your soul

Hate hate hate this song, I will never ever listen to it not even on the radio. I will trade this song in a second for 'Open arms' (Still don't know why it's not at least a bonus tract on this cd) I hope someone wil load the sudio version on You tube I would love the hear it. I just loooooove that song.

 

Didn't know love

Now this is the type of song from Celine that I adore!!!! I really love this song, the way she sings it, especially the chorus part. Definitely one of my favs on this album. I will easily put it on repeat. This song will be nice to listen to in a bubble bath with just candlelight and a glass of wine ( doesn't matte red or white as long as it's wine lol)

 

Thank you

Another fav. The lyrics is so beautiful. Nice song to play for someone who is really just there for you no matter what. Love love love it!!!!

 

Overjoyed

Like many of you said, it just dont fit on this album. I like Steve Wonder but like someone said he sounds very whiney on this song. It's not a bad bad song, but I won't listen to it very often.

 

Thankful

I'm not crazy about this one. I won't skip it, but it's not that great.

 

At seventeen

I am so in love with this song, the lyrics really touced me, I can so identify with this song.........so glad those days are looooooooooong gone. Definitely one of my favs.

 

Always be your girl

Although I don't have children I still love this song. Nice lyrics, so sweet awwwwww. 'I can melt the drops of freezing rain, I will fly in and save the day.............so beautiful!!

 

Unfinished songs

Like like like it. The lyrics is perrrrrfect. I just love this song, and the lyrics wow wow wow......o sorry I already said the lyrics............just love love it. Did you hear the lyrics........lol just joking around, but I really like the song, love everything about it. I think this will be my most fav song on this album.

 

How do you keep the music playing

Not a bad song, but I must be in the mood for it.

 

Lullabye

A very soothing song, I will listen to it when I go to bed, lights out, with the moon shining through my window.

 

Overall I will give this album a 8.5/10. The only complaint I have is Celine's pronunciation on some of the words, like in 'Always be your girl' I also heared breasts instead of prayers....lol.

 

PS. I hope we don't wait another 6 years for her next english album.

 

LOL I heard breasts also instead of prayers. I was like...what???

[LukeD]

10. Thankful: Church ballad! Love it 2/4

 

I think you made a mistake here, as you gave this song 2/4 and said you loved it and then gave 2.5/4 to 'Always Be Your Girl' which you dislike.

[azlan]

_{Celine's best album since "A New Day Has Come".....}

[Nmj]

I hate to say this, and I feel really crazy for saying so but...

 

I LOVE "How Do You Keep The Music Playing".... Never thought I would, but I adore it. I have it on REPEAT. I was never crazy about a "Vegas themed" album idea in the first place but this song is just magical. Her voice is reminiscent of the 90's, I ADORE the arrangement of the song and all I can say is I'm SURPRISED!

 

I know that this song doesn't really fit the flow of the album but in my opinion its SO good that it should've had a spot in the standard edition of the album.

 

10/10

[LukeD]

I hate to say this, and I feel really crazy for saying so but...

 

I LOVE "How Do You Keep The Music Playing".... Never thought I would, but I adore it. I have it on REPEAT. I was never crazy about a "Vegas themed" album idea in the first place but this song is just magical. Her voice is reminiscent of the 90's, I ADORE the arrangement of the song and all I can say is I'm SURPRISED!

 

I know that this song doesn't really fit the flow of the album but in my opinion its SO good that it should've had a spot in the standard edition of the album.

 

10/10

I agree. I have taken out of my track-list 'Overjoyed' & 'At seventeen' and put 'How do you keep the music playing' instead. It fits the album for me, works well..!

[Nmj]

I agree. I have taken out of my track-list 'Overjoyed' & 'At seventeen' and put 'How do you keep the music playing' instead. It fits the album for me, works well..!

 

I agree that it defiantly fits the track list more than than both of those songs, I really wish that instead of "Overjoyed" and "At17" that they chose "How Do You Keep The Music Playing" and "Open Arms".

[Alex_Incognito]

HDYKTMP was such a surprise when I heard at the premiere. It's been one of my favorite songs for years and Celine does it justice.

Note, it's written by the folks who wrote 'I knew i loved you.' Another gem in her career.