Daniel Rodriguez - Spirit of America - CD

What could be a more appropriate tribute to the American people, who suffered the attack on the World Trade Center on September 11, than the Manhattan Records release by a member of New York's own police force? Daniel Rodriguez sings American classics in a collection that is both stirring and poignant.

There are no superfluous liner notes to distract from Rodriguez' heartfelt outpouring to his fellow countrymen. The album contains an insert that, on one side, includes the essential credits for each song and a kind looking photo of the artist and also a pensive one. On the flip side there is a small note of thanks (which speaks for itself) and a photo of a laughing Rodriguez at work on the album. Like life itself, there is a flip side to the September 11 tragedy; the coming together of a nation.

Appropriately the opening track on this CD is Irving Berlin's "God Bless America." This will send shivers up and down your spine from the opening monologue. Perhaps the most poignant moment on the CD is during "Bring Him Home" from Claude-Michel Schonberg's musical, Les Miserable. This song is a prayer for the safe return of a young idealistic friend, and its implications to our service men presently in the Gulf countries is unmistakable. As the music begins to pulse to its climax the words "Bring Him Home" will bring a lump to your throat and tears to your eyes.

With "Danny Boy", Rodriguez will bring tears of nostalgia to your eyes. After a short orchestral introduction his glorious baritone voice begins telling this well-known tale. As the music builds to the refrain, the power of Rodriguez' voice reverberates through your soul taking your breath away. "The Lord's Prayer" begins with simple arpeggios in the piano, evaporating as the prayer begins. The fervor Rodriguez brings to what follows will leave your soul resounding like a bell peeling at the end of a storm. He sings from his heart, and fills his listeners with hope and joy. The CD ends with one of the most chillingly glorious performance of "God Bless America" you will ever hear.

Music has always been a great source of comfort in a time of tragedy. The Spirit of America does just that. As a member of the NYPD, Rodriguez has shown his commitment to his neighbors. With this musical tribute, Rodriguez reaches out to the entire nation. This is not a CD to be missed it will inspire you during your darkness hours, and fill you life with light.

By Perri M. Zimmerman