Gary Barlow - Open Road

The Take That frontman's 1997 solo album debut. RCA. Album Description

Strong Album - Would Give it 10 Stars if I Could

Having been a fan of Take That, I was quite interested when Gary Barlow released his solo debut. When I bought this CD, I realized what a musical genius he truly is. This entire CD is wonderful. Gary's voice is like an angel. And the fact that he wrote or co-wrote many of the songs proves that he is not just a former boyband pretty face (although he is that as well). His cover of "So Help me Girl" far outshines the original country version and should have been a #1 hit here in America. The follow up single, "Superhero" was equally impressive and should have been a much bigger hit. Other stand-out tracks include "Hang on in There Baby" and the title track, "Open Road". Since the follow up to this album was never released here in the States, I have not heard it. It is a shame that American radio ignored Gary, because I think he is an amazing talent. I like his former bandmate Robbie Williams as well, but why does Robbie get all the press and Gary is overlooked? If you like beautifully crafted pop songs and have never listened to Gary Barlow, I suggest you buy this CD and give him a try. He is every bit as talented as anyone performing on "American Idol". Let's hope he puts out more CD's and finally catches on here in America. March 31, 2005

as beautiful as a sigh

In 1996 upon the split up of Take That the world was watching the moves of the man by the name of Gary Barlow. I for one did not anticipate what the follow was going to entail. When I first heard this earth shattering album I wept for I knew that things could never be the same again. Each track on the album has the ability of conjering up different emotions, and by the end, the emotional wirlwind leaves me dizzy. The album's central theme of encountering genuin beauty in our world of technology, yet being unable to shake a certain feeling of unease, comes across perfectly. It's funny that the people who are angered by this album may be the people it was really geared towards. It attempts to send the message that you don't have to be compliant all the time: treasure your individuality, don't let anyone take it away from you. At least that's what I got from this album, which brings the point across beautifully with it's layered sounds and melodic, peircing, and haunting vocals. I'm genuinly moved by this album everytime I listen to it. For those that think I'm saying this just to be hip, and cannnot and do not want anyone to have opinions different than their own, I'm with Gary Barlow saying 'So lets just keep walking down that Open Road'. Not just that but as Garys pet for his entire life fragments of this album kept on propping up to influence a diverse range of artists from the Beatles all the way to Nirvana to Radiohead. One persistent rumour which keeps propping up is that 'Smells like Teen Spirit' was a throwaway. It pretty much sums all you need to know about this album which is the greatest ever in the history of history
So why does the album only get one star. Because I gave my heart to Gary and he broke it 12 months 11 days later. January 25, 2005

Fine Adult Contemporary

He has more than capable vocals for the music be does. If you like A.C. or romantic and emotionally passionate music, this CD is for you. He has great vocals throughout the entire album. He is a great songwriter as well. January 31, 2004

Is Gary Barlow the most TALENTED person ever?

Is he? Does he have an attractive face shape? I LIKE his face shape.

is this album actually any good? Do I merely give him 4 stars because I feel sorry for him? NO Its because I like his face shape.

Gary Barlow INTENDS to make a HUGE comeback sometime in the near future. I SIMPLY can't wait!.......for the VIDEO.... September 8, 2003

mohamed

THIS IS A REAL GOOD CD. YOU WILL NEVER REGRET BUYING IT.... GOOD MUSIC & WORDS....... JUST TRY IT. May 2, 2002

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