International classical crossover quartet Il Divo didn't start out in the garage practicing their exceptionally fluid tenors among the din of outraged neighbors and summer construction crews; rather, they were hunted by producers for two years like wild game in their native lands and herded into the studio, where they were sculpted into a machine of such smoldering European romanticism that the world would have no choice but to rip their very hearts out upon first listen. Il Divo's debut CD has subtly bridged the gap between pop and classical music and is positioning itself in a new musical niche. American tenor David Miller, French heartthrob Sebastien Izambard, Swiss tenor Urs Buhler, and Spanish baritone Carlos Marin were teamed with pop producers Per Magnusson and David Krueger (Britney Spears, Backstreet Boys) and Steve Mac (Charlotte Church, Kelly Clarkson) and turned loose on a slate of classical-pop favorites, with a dramatic, dynamically nuanced read of Toni Braxton's signature Unbreak My Heart setting the standard.

Producers have created The Three Tenors – in this case four – for the next generation. Il Divo tackle many standards with an expert precision and pomp that aptly conveys their obvious talents. An achingly beautiful arrangement of Gabriel's Oboe – known here as Nella Fantasia – from Ennio Morricone's score for The Mission is sweeping and grand. Everytime I Look At You and Feelings (not Morris Albert's) soar gracefully, while The Man You Love seems more a throwback to the producers' boy band roots. Italian version of the standard My Way (A Mi Manera) closes the album out on a high note. Il Divo take popular songs, old and new, to another level where the historic rift between pop and classical music is finally healed.

David, Carlos and Urs are all classically trained, while Sebastien is self-taught. David was seen on Broadway a couple of years ago in La Boheme. Carlos has done several musicals and operas, notable roles including The Beast in Disney's Beauty & the Beast and Marius in Les Miserables. Sebastien appeared in Le Petit Prince in France. They come from a variety of countries, and each one brings his own strengths and talent to the group. Aside from the handsome good looks, the men can sing! Anyone willing to listen can see they put their hearts into the music. Whether the lyric is in English, Spanish or Italian, these men have a great ability to express emotion through the songs. Their voices blend well together and it does not sound as if they are competing with each other. There is nothing musically ground-breaking or astounding about Il Divo’s debut album. It is simply a collection of beautiful songs, sung by beautiful voices. But as dinner background music, roadtrip material or a de-stress tool, this album will be a great addition to any collection.

03.06.2005