“ARIA Number 1 Hits in Symphony” – Anthony Callea

I must admit, I don’t follow the singles charts as much as I used to. Perhaps it’s the nostalgia that comes with old age, but I remember growing up listening to the charts on the radio, recording song after song because every one was a winner. Now I see what’s charting and wonder who or earth is buying that. It seems Anthony Callea has a similar affection for the good old days when browsing the track listing of his latest album ARIA Number 1 Hits in Symphony.

The album celebrates Anthony’s favourite singles that topped the ARIA charts. Most of the tracks come from the late ‘80s and ‘90s, although Anthony does dabble in more recent musical history with his covers of “All of Me,” “Someone Like You,” and “Bleeding Love.” Thankfully he’s given “Despacito” a wide berth. The more recent covers are songs that could have been written in another time, beautiful ballads that suit this album’s mellow feel. Don’t confuse mellow with sleepy though. John Foreman should be applauded for his magical arrangements of these songs. The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra execute his arrangements flawlessly. Then there’s Anthony’s sublime voice in the centre of it all. What a voice he has, powerful and rich. If anything I think it’s only gotten better over the years.

It’s interesting that Anthony has chosen to release this album which has such a layered, rich sound as his follow-up to Backbone, an album which stripped back the production. While they’re very different albums, both contain see Anthony breathing new life into some excellent source material, putting his own stamp on the songs while remaining faithful to the original. And just like Backbone, I wouldn’t be surprised if this one goes to the top of the charts.

ARIA Number 1 Hits in Symphony is in stores now.

6 July 2018 – Dunstan Playhouse, Adelaide
7 July 2018 – Astor Theatre, Perth
27 & 28 July 2018 – The Palms at Crown, Melbourne
3 August 2018 – The Tivoli, Brisbane
4 August 2018 – The Star, Gold Coast
11 August 2018 – State Theatre, Sydney

Image used with permission from Sony Music Australia