Standard Time
Those who knowSam Harrisonly as the originalStar Searchgrand champion or maybe as aMotown recording artistmight be surprised by this 1997 take on popular standards, but Harris graduated to a career in musical theater, including time on Broadway inGreaseandThe Lifeas well as a memorable stint as the title character in the touring company ofJoseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat.Standard Timecollects 14 great classics backed by a full orchestra arranged and conducted by industry veteran Peter Matz. There's not a dud in the lot, but highlights include "Over the Rainbow," which provides a fresh take on one of Harris's signatureStar Searchnumbers, and Anthony Newley's "Who Can I Turn To (When Nobody Needs Me)," a naturally introverted song that becomes a bravura showcase for his brilliant upper register. The emotional heart of the album, however, is Harris's duet with longtime collaboratorLaurie Beechmanon one of the most romantic ballads ever written, "That's All."--David Horiuchi