Michael Buble, “It’s Time”: The newest release from crooner Michael Buble (pronounced boo-blay), borders on swing and other modes of jazz with covers of such tunes as the Beatles’ “Can’t Buy Me Love,” the George and Ira Gershwin tune “A Foggy Day (In London Town),” and the Stevie Wonder classic “You and I.” The CD also adds a touch of originality with the self-penned “Home.”
Buble has had swing in his bones since he was a baby. His grandfather introduced him to the likes of The Mills Brothers, Ella Fitzgerald and Rosemary Clooney, while also giving him a helping of music legends such as Elvis,
Stevie Wonder and an obvious influence from Ol’ Blue Eyes himself, Frank Sinatra.
Sounding like a mixture between Sinatra and Harry Connick Jr., but with a less distinctive croon, Bublé’s clear voice and smooth rhythms keep the CD moving along, although Bublé is simply no match for either Sinatra or Connick. But Bublé has ample time to find his own niche in the genre: He’s still under 30 and has plenty of potential to find his way in the music business.
There are some definite hits on “It’s Time,” such as “Quando, Quando, Quando,” a smooth duet with singer Nelly Furtado, and “Song for You,” featuring trumpet player Chris Botti. Other songs, including “Save the Last Dance For Me,” and “You Don’t Know Me,” are a little bland and uncreative, but overall “It’s Time” is a pretty good effort. Maybe after he stops covering some of the greats and starts making greats of his own it will really be his time.

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