Beautiful by David Tao
Beautiful, David Tao's fifth studio recording, is his most pleasant album to date.
His last two releases, Black Tangerine in 2002 and The Big Leap in 2005, feature anti-war messages and edgy songs that explore the dark side of life. The majority of songs on Beautiful are soft, relaxing love ballads.
The opening number, Can't Get You Outta My Mind, is a creative rendition of Koo Mei's Love Without End. Tao adds elements of hip hop to this Mando-pop classic, and the result is fun, hip and refreshing.
Other numbers, such as Too Beautiful, The Moment and Finally, display Tao's sensitive side with their heartfelt and sentimental lyrics. Melody-wise, they are standard Mando-pop ballads. But Tao's delicate vocals and the musical arrangements, which often feature strings, acoustic guitars and horns, make them stand out from the crowd.
A highlight is Marry Me Today featuring Taiwanese singer Jolin Tsai. It's a lighthearted, romantic song which is perfect for couples at karaoke.