Totally Hot review
By Bill Celis, Bulletin Staff Writer
Olivia Newton-John is back with an album that combines her famed pop sound with sensitive renditions of mild rock and progressive country to make “Totally Hot” an album rich in diversified sounds.
Taking nearly two years off from her recording career to co-star in the Hollywood remake of the Broadway musical “Grease,” Newton-John explodes with confidence in her eighth album.
The tune “A Little More Love” is already a hit, and the up-beat soft rock melody features Newton-John’s high-pitched voice in ear-pleasing harmonies. The title cut, however, “Totally Hot,” is a weak attempt at a stronger rock sound, and she doesn’t come across nearly as well.
The second best tune on the album is easily “Dancin’ Round and Round.” With a prominent progressive country twang, Newton-John’s adaptable voice blends well with flowing instrumentation.
Other good bets include “Please Don’t Keep Me Waiting” and “Borrowed Time.” The first selection has that patented Olivia flair, and it ends with high octave bursts that she handles well. “Borrowed Time” is another typically Newton-John tune that features her own voice in back-up vocals for interesting results.
“Totally Hot” won’t go gold, but it does make for an enjoyable evening of music. While she successfully comes across with her style of rock, her bread and butter sound will always be pop.
“Totally Hot” courtesy of Montgomery Ward record department.