AMG Review of Andy Williams Live: Treasures from His Personal Collection

Paula Edelstein
All Music Guide

Andy Williams Live: Treasures From His Personal Collection recaptures 31 great songs from the vocalist's repertoire and the best of his live performances. The ambience of Williams' gleaming, beautiful tones is heard on such priceless favorites as "Moon River," a big-band version of the Henry Mancini-Johnny Mercer composition "Charade," "The Way You Look Tonight," "Alfie," "If Ever I Would Leave You," and one of Antonio Carlos Jobim's prettiest songs, "Corcovado." Williams projects with power and emotion against remarkable string arrangements, phrases lyrics with beauty and grace, and enamors you with his soft and serene musical tapestries. You only have to listen to his interpretation of the Bernstein/Sondheim gem "Somewhere" and to the way he sustains the notes on "Who Can I Turn To" to understand why Williams' voice is an authentic American treasure.