[NEW RELEASES] Michael Buble

Along with Josh Groban, Celine Dion and Barbra Streisand, Michael Buble fits squarely in a category that I call “mom music.” These are pleasant and inoffensive tunes, with a dash of that old-fashioned style that makes ladies of all generations swoon.

Buble, who’s known for covers of old jazz standards, stretches a little with offerings like the title track, “Crazy Love,” a remake of a Van Morrison song. And honestly, the man could sing just about anything and make it sound fit for a classy wedding reception ? with such rich vocal color, he could even make Marilyn Manson charming.

Standouts are the bouncy “Haven’t Met You Yet,” one of two original tracks on the album, and a duet with Sharon Jones and The Dap-Kings “Baby (You’ve Got What It Takes)”, which features adorable jazzy banter.

Critics may call Buble easy-listening imitation Sinatra, but he’s this generation’s classic alternative to the noise pollution of techno-pop and frat-metal - and for that, we can excuse his slight tendency to preciousness. By Hannah Bae

Michael Buble

“Crazy Love”

Label: WEA International

Genre: Jazz