There have been several attempts at an Elvis Presley remix album over the years, with many failing to capture the magic. However, this one succeeds. The album If I Can Dream: Elvis Presley With The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra doesn’t aim to replace the original masters – nothing ever could – but Sony Music has crafted a compelling new listening experience that remains faithful to the King’s style.
This album presents a fresh perspective, not a replacement, of Elvis’s body of work. Crucially, it feels like a cohesive project, an album Elvis himself might have gone into the studio to record.
Album Cohesion and Respect for the Original
The newly recorded backing by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra gives the songs a unified sound and feel, unlike typical compilations where tracks recorded years apart retain their distinct production eras. This creates a sense of completeness throughout the listening experience. Importantly, the orchestra complements Elvis rather than overpowering him. While there are moments of distinct difference, like the opening to ‘Burning Love’, they are generally brief and serve the song.
Track Highlights: A New Listening Experience
Burning Love: A Powerful Philharmonic Rocker
The album kicks off with a unique orchestral introduction to ‘Burning Love’. While initially striking, perhaps even jarring to purists, repeated listens reveal its cleverness. This version of the Burning Love Philharmonic arrangement transforms the track significantly, making it a powerful rock song that feels almost entirely new. It stands out as one of the most different interpretations on the album, showcasing the potential of this orchestral pairing.
It’s Now Or Never: Enhanced Originality
Following the energetic opener, ‘It’s Now Or Never’ stays closer to its original form but benefits immensely from the new recording. The orchestral arrangement enhances the track beautifully, drawing attention to the music in a way that feels entirely natural and respectful, prompting a new level of appreciation.
Love Me Tender: Modern Stereo Fullness
‘Love Me Tender’ begins with a noticeably different intro before Elvis’s familiar vocals enter. The overall feel remains similar to the original, but the track gains a modern, fuller sound, presented in stereo. The string sections particularly complement this classic ballad, perhaps more effectively than on any other song here.
Cover art for the album If I Can Dream featuring Elvis Presley with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra arrangements.
Fever (feat. Michael Bublé): A Controversial Duet
This track, featuring Michael Bublé, required several listens to fully appreciate, especially for those hesitant about ‘virtual’ duets. While initially jarring for some purists, the duet eventually fits within the album’s overall soundscape. The choice of a male vocalist like Bublé arguably maintains the album’s sonic consistency better than a female voice might have, preventing the track from sounding too isolated.
Bridge Over Troubled Water: Perfect Orchestral Fit
‘Bridge Over Troubled Water’ proves to be an ideal candidate for this orchestral treatment. The Royal Philharmonic enhances the song’s inherent power without drastically altering it. The result is as moving and enjoyable as ever, a perfect blend of Elvis’s vocal prowess and lush orchestration.
And The Grass Won’t Pay No Mind: Subtle Enhancement
Recognized as a unique and perhaps underutilized gem in Elvis’s catalog, ‘And The Grass Won’t Pay No Mind’ receives subtle overdubs. The producers wisely adopted a ‘less is more’ approach, keeping the track very close to the original while adding a refined new ending.
You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling: Imagining Elvis in London
Another track perfectly suited for the project, ‘You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling’ is given a stunning orchestral backing. It evokes images of Elvis performing live on stage, perhaps even in London, accompanied by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra – a tantalizing thought. This version retains all the emotional weight of the original.
There’s Always Me: A Producer’s Favorite
‘There’s Always Me’, noted as a favorite of co-producer Don Reedman, receives a treatment that might not connect with everyone. However, its powerful ending is undeniable and likely to resonate with many listeners.
Can’t Help Falling In Love: Nice Compliment
A classic choice for this project, ‘Can’t Help Falling In Love’ is nicely complemented by the Royal Philharmonic’s arrangement, adding a layer of warmth and grandeur to the beloved song.
In The Ghetto: Respecting Perfection
Given that ‘In The Ghetto’ was already considered perfectly produced, the challenge was to enhance it without detracting from the original. The orchestral additions are handled tastefully, preserving the song’s narrative power and impact.
How Great Thou Art: Balanced Power
This reworking of ‘How Great Thou Art’ creates a greater balance between Elvis’s vocals and the musical arrangement. While the original emphasized the vocal, fitting for a gospel album, this version integrates the music more fully, potentially broadening its appeal and introducing Elvis’s gospel work to new audiences.
Steamroller Blues: Up-Tempo Energy
‘Steamroller Blues’ provides an injection of bluesy, up-tempo energy. The arrangement effectively captures the song’s driving rhythm. While some might prefer other tracks potentially considered (like ‘What Now My Love’), its inclusion adds important balance to the album’s pacing.
An American Trilogy: A New Studio Feel
‘An American Trilogy’ is another highlight, presented here with a ‘studio’ feel, removing the live audience elements often associated with it. The result is different yet retains the epic scope and power of the original performance.
If I Can Dream: A Fitting Title Track
Closing the album, the title track ‘If I Can Dream’ stays very true to the original recording. The orchestral additions enhance its emotional climax, providing a fitting and powerful conclusion to the collection.
Production and Presentation
The accompanying booklet is well-executed. Instead of lengthy essays, it features concise and insightful notes from executive producer Priscilla Presley and co-producers Don Reedman and Nick Patrick. These are paired with carefully selected, high-quality photographs, complementing the premium feel of the release.
Conclusion
After multiple listens, If I Can Dream: Elvis Presley With The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra reveals new layers of appreciation. It’s a project executed with respect and creativity, successfully breathing new life into classic recordings without overshadowing the original artistry. This album stands as a high-quality production that honours Elvis’s legacy while offering a genuinely fresh and cohesive listening experience. It has the potential to connect with a new generation of fans while providing existing ones with a rewarding new way to experience the King’s music.
Overall Rating: 9.5/10
