Bloom: Remix Album
Many remixed CDs are mildly amusing at best. Sarah McLachlan'sBloom, on the other hand, is a showcase of world-class musicians reworking her timeless compositions to match their compelling styles, rather than just adding dance beats to pre-existing Sarah songs. The list of contributors to this collection is most impressive, likely to bring non-folk fans into her fold. Reggae legendsSly & Robbiehave done some amazing dub-meets-downtempo work on "Train Wreck," arguably improving upon the original cut. DMC (of Run DMC fame) collaborates with Will.I.Am from theBlack Eyed Peasto turn out the very BEP-sounding track "Just Like Me," which is centered around McLachlan singing the chorus of "Cats In The Cradle." Famed South Asian DJTalvin Singhhas created a rich, tabla and sitar-infused take on the achingly beautiful "Answer," guaranteed to be a hit at yoga studios and aromatherapy shops everywhere. As far as the other songs are concerned, the majority are amped-up and turned into house music, especially Amsterdam legendJunkie XL's "World On Fire" and the (80's-esque driving beat of "Vox," mixed byTom Middleton. Ironically, some of the best and brightest moments onBloomoccur when the strong cast of DJs and producers create compositions significantly different from McLachlan's masterful originals. The talent of Sly & Robbie, Talvin Singh, DMC, andThievery Corporationalone make this album well worth acquiring.--Denise Sheppard