I've been a fan of Neil Diamond since the beginning of his career. I've seen him in concert in 5 states, and was there when they recorded "Hot August Night". I have his early hits on 45s and have every album Neil Diamond ever made on vinyl, cassettes and even some 8 tracks, including the imports. This album will be the end of the collection, I'm afraid. There is nothing new or fresh about this album, and nothing nostalgic. The lyrics are trite and predictable and the melodies are boring, or rip-offs of some of his other songs. It's really sad to see such a major talent fall so far from grace. Maybe retirement wouldn't be such a bad idea.

As I listened to the different tracks I was immediately reminded of Neil's original hits of the 70's. The ballads and spirited lightness of his music returns me back to his early hits reminding me of Cherry, Cherry, Song Sung Blue and what for was the peak of Neil's career. His ability to uplift your spirits after listening to his voice and production of songs that you feel in your soul.