One of Branson’s favorite male vocalists and its male vocalist of the Year, Doug Gabriel has just released a new album entitled “Solid Gold Classics.” In reviewing the album over the 2002 Memorial Day weekend the following comes to mind.
Doug’s rich full voice adds strength and vibrancy to old favorites such as American Trilogy, Wind Beneath My Wings, Crazy Arms, He’ll have to Go, God Bless The USA, You Gave Me A Mountain, Pretty Woman, and Release Me. Throughout, the instrumental accompaniment is excellent, is not overpowering, and enhances Doug’s excellent vocal presentations.
Those who know Doug and Cheryl and his mom and dad, Don and Dorothy, know the love they feel for each other. Although admittedly, this writer is probably influenced by such knowledge, he just has to believe that as Doug sings “The Wind Beneath My Wings” and “My Woman, My Woman, My Wife” that the listener will feel the obvious love he feels for his parents and wife. It is definitely an album to be shared with someone you love.
Doug’s rendition of the “American Trilogy” will bring a smile to the face of “Elvis,” wherever he is sighted next, and should provide inspiration to all who hear it and love America. Everyone will have a favorite number and mine is one I don’t recall having heard before, “Just Love Me,” a duet sung by Doug and his lovely wife, Cheryl. It is a beautiful and touching song, obviously sung by two people that love each other very much. When they sing the words, “Love Me Like I Love You” it almost brings a tear of happiness to ones eye as you feel the love they share.
This album combines the best of Doug’s voice, and balanced instrumental accompaniment, on songs that will inspire and entertain the listener, and, maybe, just just maybe, might share a little of that “Gabriel” love and goodness with those listeners who have open hearts.
