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All too often, great albums pass by without being noticed. Mark
Mangold was kind enough to send me his “Lift” album from some time
ago and while I was listening to it, it soon became clear that this
is one of them.
Mark Mangold is a famous name in the world of AOR, having been a
member of bands like Touch, The Sign, Flesh & Blood,
Mystic Healer and Drive, She Said. But also outside of
the field he’s a well-respected character, mainly as a songwriter.
His greatest credit is arguably the song “I Found Someone”, which he
co-wrote with Michael Bolton, was recorded by Laura Branigan and
became a huge hit for both Bolton and Cher.
“Lift”, his second solo album, collects 16 tracks, which could be
described as soulful AOR, with some gospel, Celtic and world music
influences. Mainly piano-driven, the music is quite mellow; the
songs rarely really rock. But it’s that kind of album you like to
put on on a late night, with the lights turned low, a glass of fine
wine at hand and with some nice company to share the experience
with. Yes, I’m sure that’ll work… The lyrics are great too; they’re
very personal, positive and spiritual, without being preachy.
Mangold’s singing is truly excellent as well. He may not have the
greatest range, but he sounds very soulful, emotional and warm.
The songs really do Mangold’s reputation as a songwriter justice.
The title track is an absolute stunner: mysterious chants in the
background, soaring vocals, a soulful female backing and an
unforgettable melody. “Promises (The Martyr)” is a fabulous AOR song
with a fantastic piano solo and an incredible chorus that just keeps
spinning in my head. “You Are Love” is the most beautiful ballad,
which could (and should) be a huge hit, if only more people would
hear it. The same goes for “Confess Your Love” and “Crack In The
Wall”. The African-flavoured “Holy Water” is another highlight. The
album closes with his version of “I Found Someone”, which sounds a
bit laid-back in comparison to Cher’s. I, for one, prefer Mangold’s
soulful take, though.
“Lift” is one of those wonderfully intimate albums that deserve so
much more attention than they’re getting. Here’s hoping this one
will get a major release soon. For now, it is available from Mark’s
site (www.indigorecords.com).
Do yourself a pleasure, get over there and treat yourself to a
fabulous Christmas present. I’m sure you won’t be disappointed. |
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Mark
Mangold: vocals, keyboards, programming, string arrangements
Al Fritsch: guitars
Randy Jackson: guitars (4)
Dave Santos: bass
Kenny Aronoff: drums (2, 4, 5, 11)
Jonathan Mover: drums (1, 3, 8, 9, 12)
Chuck Bonfante: drums (13, 14, 15, 16)
Ralph Farris: violin, viola
David Weiss: flutes
Chris Lager: bagpipes |
