Reissue Reviews: John Brodeur and George Michael

John Brodeur “Tiger Pop Ten”
Everything old is new again with NYC musician John Brodeur. The critically praised debut ‘Tiger Pop’ from 2001 gets a 10th anniversary re-issue with a newly recorded version as a second disc. This new recording proves that Brodeur’s seminal work retains it’s stopping power. The songs like “Dying For Me” have a fleshed out rhythm and mature quality that those original four-track recordings lack. And the melodic power of tracks like “Remains of The Heart” and “Sucker” sound even better here as John is joined by a host of veteran musicians. An exclusive track “Masterpiece” is added to this 2 disc set. With the original CD long out of print, this is a welcome gift for power pop fans.

George Michael “Faith”
Everyone thinks they know George Michael. The iconic album ‘Faith’ is being re-mastered with an entire disc full of bonus tracks. This Grammy winner includes all the amazing hits  (“Faith,” “Father Figure” and “Monkey”) that represents Michael’s peak as a commercial force. My long time favorite, the pristine croon of “Kissing A Fool” is joined here by covers of Stevie Wonder’s “I Believe (When I Fall In Love It Will Be Forever)” and “Love’s In Need of Love Today (Live).” Michael was one of the artists that defined the 80’s, and despite the tabloid history his talent is unquestionable.