The biggest traffic jam I ever saw in Edmonton was the lineup to get into the Neil Diamond concert some years back. I never understood that. And after suffering through this, Diamond's first all-new, all-original record since the Precambrian era (1974), I still don't. The capo di tutti capo of hacks serves up an unappetizing platter of schmaltz that fails on almost all counts. Stabs at soul have none. Attempts to rock out do not rock. Countrified numbers fail to conjure up wide open spaces. Heartfelt ballads are maudlin and laughable. Production is Muzak quality - violins with a steel drum being an example of attempts to sound "hip." It's more like background music at the Branson Holiday Inn. Over ham-fisted arrangements bereft of groove, Diamond warbles such banalities as "I believe in new beginnings, extra innings, brand new starts, loving hearts that care the way I do, all these things and happy endings, too."

Don't line up for this. You probably just want to hear Sweet Caroline anyway. (More on: Neil Diamond)

Track Listing 1. I Haven't Played This Song In Years
2. Don't Look Down
3. I Believe In Happy Endings
4. At The Movies
5. Midnight Dream
6. You Are The Best Part Of Me
7. Baby Let's Drive
8. My Special Someone
9. A Mission Of Love
10. Elijah's Song
11. Leave A Little Room For God