Bravo Monte--I Couldn't Have Said It Better!!!!

I have just had the most bizarre, near telepathic experience. I heard the "WYB" duet on radio tonight. I recorded it, listened to it several times over, and proceeded to submit a review. After plunging into the writing of it with all the earnestness and care of a serious music lover and unasbashed enthusiast of Whitney Houston's sublime vocal artististy, I found myself agonizing over issues of balance and fairness. I gave up in furstration. I left the site, and returned only to find Monte's insightful, if unapologetically partisan, review of the record. I can only say that he must have read my mind. Although I might be inclined to be a bit more generous to Mariah, his review of the song mirrors my own impressions of it almost to the last measure. I also share his awe of Whitney's magnificent instrument, which cointinues to excite me with every recording--including this one.

Nevetheless, Monte's take on the duet as a whole is right on target. I can only add that I think the song suffers especially from a lacklustre, unimaginative, and perhaps unfocused production from Babyface. The bridge and final chorus, in particular, seem pasted together, as does Mariah's second verse, which finds her alternating too often between head and chest tones without interpretive focus or meaning (her verse was clearly edited together from mutiple takes, in contrast to Whitney's opening verse, which flows with the grace and verve of a single take). It is also clear that the two singers recorded their parts separately, which perhaps made it more challenging for Babyface to meld their voices together for the final cut--a challenge he does not entirely meet. Contrast this managed recording with the more inspired and ultimately more effective pairing of Whitney and Cece Winans on "Count On Me." Whitney and Cece clearly recorded the latter song together.

I also agree with some of Monte's criticisms of Mariah's vocal craft. Her head notes sound grainy and raspy, and her chest voice belts are at times strained. But, I am not as troubled as Monte by her performance--perhaps a matter of taste. I do enjoy, her coloratura notes at the end of the song; they are airy but clear and help to strengthen her performance.

These are, however, mere addenda to Monte's fuller criticisms. His well-written review is masterful, and I dare say, authoritative. His descriptions of Whitney's stunning voice and elegant technique, in particular, leave me breatheless. I wouldn't change a word. I only wish his review could find its way into print. Bravo!!!!

In sum, "WYB" is fine, though not earthshaking, and will likely do well. But it fails to live up to the lofty expectations that inevitably accompany any such high-profile duet featuring two best-selling pop divas and helmed by an influential producer--perhaps no recording could.