On
The Disney Songbook,
Jim Brickman applies his famously smooth touch to new and old classics from the revered animation studio.
Brickman chooses Disney songs that work perfectly with his style, ranging from the soothing sweetness of "Beauty and the Beast" and "Reflection" to wittier, livelier tracks like "Cruella De Vil" and "Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah." He also recruits a cast of singers to help bring the songbook to life, including
Wayne Brady,
Kassie DePaiva, and two American Idol alumni,
Kimberley Locke and
Josh Gracin.
Brady's "Beautiful" and
Locke's "A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes" compare favorably with Disney's own pop versions of songs like "A Whole New World," while
Gracin's "When I See an Elephant Fly" and
Lila McCann's "I'm Amazed" add some country charm to the album. A good-natured listening experience,
The Disney Songbook may not be among
Brickman's all-time best albums, but it's never less than relaxing and sweet. ~ Heather Phares