Nilsson Sings Newman (New LP)

While Nilsson began coming into his own at the beginning of the 1970s, Randy Newman was virtually unknown to anyone outside the world of music publishing and almost nonexistent as a performer. The critical appeal that both would eventually (and rightfully) attain makes this artistic summit all the more poignant. Famously named “Record of the Year” by Stereo Review magazine, Harry Nilsson’s Nilsson Sings Newman stands well outside the mainstream of other LPs of this period – with Newman’s piano providing the sole accompaniment to the multi-tracked army of Nilsson harmonies and overdubs. It is also the first album where Nilsson acted as his own producer. Part of the album’s charm can be heard in the studio talkback that Nilsson chose to include in-between his vocal harmonies to help achieve the final product. Stunning from start to finish, fan favorites include “Vine St.,” “Love Story” and “Living Without You.”