All That Matters (CD) by Michael Bolton

Armed with unstoppable pipes, some time-tested cover tunes, and a haircut which even his most ardent fans had to admit was pretty humorous, Michael Bolton has achieved a curious, but undeniable, worldwide conquest. His brand of blue-eyed soul has sold millions upon millions of albums, confusing many a smarmy music critic. With ALL THAT MATTERS, Bolton enjoys a kind of rebirth, creating a sound which is modern and distinctive without sacrificing one bit of the earnest, passionate charm with which he has weakened knees on a global scale. He's even gotten a haircut, which is yet another point in his favor.

Co-writing 10 of the album's 13 tracks, Bolton has chosen his company well. In addition to long-time collaborator Diane Warren (with whom he co-wrote "How Am I Supposed To Live Without You?"), Bolton works with the legendary Lamont Dozier as well as R&B luminary Babyface. The fruit of their efforts is refreshingly contemporary and overwhelmingly upbeat--it even includes the inspirational feel-good anthem, "Go The Distance," which Bolton recorded for the animated Disney film "Hercules."