I have to admit that I have been a Boyzone and Ronan Keating fan since 1994 (when I saw Boyzone on the Smash Hits Poll Winners’ Party), so I may have been a bit biased when reviewing Ronan Keating’s brand new album – Twenty Twenty!
I hope you enjoy my review and stay musical.
Sophia
On a rainy Sunday in July, I sat myself down with a nice cup of tea, headphones on and closed my eyes and starting playing Twenty Twenty…
Forever Ain’t Enough
This has to be my favourite song on the album. I listened to the album twice in a row and this was the track that stuck in my mind. I can imagine this song being a popular wedding theme as it captures the essence of true love. It instantly put a smile on my face and made me want to grab my guitar and learn to play and perform it as soon as possible!
“The second I saw it I knew, forever ain’t enough with you.”
Little Thing Called Love
This song was released as a single and is the perfect song for the current climate. The words make you realise what is really important – love, family and friends. It makes me grateful for my family and friends and all the great memories that we have built up over the years. This song is the perfect remedy to bring smiles, laughter and tears. A must listen!
“This little thing called love is all we need now.”
One of a Kind – with Emeli Sandé
A delightful blend of the voices of Ronan and Emeli. It was released as a single earlier this year, so I have already had it on repeat. It has a lovely soulful feel to it and follows the romantic theme of the album so far.
“Even long after we’re gone, our love will always live on.”
Only Lovers
A song that shows Ronan’s wide vocal range and as I closed my eyes, I could imagine this being a typical Boyzone song, which made me like it even more. I found myself singing along before the song had even finished.
“If we run like we are made of light, like we are worth the fight, I think we are the only lovers left alive.”
Forever and Ever, Amen – with Shania Twain
I am a huge country music fan, and I knew this classic love song, originally by Randy Travis.
In my opinion, it is one of the most beautiful love songs ever written and before the song started I hoped that Ronan and Shania would do the song justice. It can be daunting to listen to a cover of a classic like this, but the first time I heard it, I forgot Randy’s version and was so mesmerised with Ronan and Shania’s style. It’s hard not to smile and shed a happy tear when listening to this song.
“As long as old men sit and talk about the weather, as long as old women sit and talk about old men.”
Love Will Remain – with Clare Bowen
This duet with actress and singer ‘Scarlett’ from Nashville was surprising. I am a big fan of Nashville and was excited to hear this duet. Clare’s voice shines on this song and the two voices really complement each other.
“Hold my hand, lose the ground beneath our feet. Come what may our love will still remain.”
The One – with Nina Nesbitt
I hadn’t heard of Nina before, but this song is a simple and beautiful ballad that makes me want to listen to her other work.
“Cause time is only ever standing still when you’re in my arms lately.”
The Big Goodbye – with Robbie Williams
A moving duet with Robbie Williams, who wrote this song back in 2009 after the death of Boyzone member Stephen Gately. I had a tear in my eye listening to this. It’s a beautiful song that makes you think about life after death in a comforting way.
“Please don’t follow me, I’ll wait for you.”
Lovin’ Each Day – 2020 version
This is a more bassy version of the original released back in 2000. This brought me back to being a teenager and singing and dancing along to this at the many concerts I’ve been to!
“Dancin’ all night and havin’ a blast.”
When You Say Nothing At All – 2020 version
You can definitely hear Ronan’s slightly more mature voice here, but this song still melts my heart and reminds me of learning to play this on my guitar. It is a lovely touch that Ed Sheeran played the acosutic guitar on this track.
“The touch of your hand says you’ll catch me wherever I fall.”
Life is a Rollercoaster – 2020 version
This is a more ‘dance’ version of the original and at the first listen, I prefer the original, although I may get used to it the more I listen to it. It is still a classic song that makes you want to get up and dance.
“Wherever you go, tell me ‘cause I’m gonna go.”
One of a Kind – with Emeli Sandé – Orchestral Version
I didn’t think the single version of this song could get any better, but I was wrong. The orchestra elevates this song and gives it extra grace and refinement. I close my eyes and imagine being in the Royal Albert Hall – I dream to be able to hear this version at Ronan’s next tour.
“Just when I thought I was lost, I saw your face and my whole life changed.”
Something Wonderful
Written and recorded for the movie ‘Galapagos – Hope for the Future’, this song has a beautiful instrumental intro and Ronan provides powerful and emotional vocals to moving lyrics which he wrote. A perfect end to a great album.
“Don’t want this story to end, we’re only at the start.”
Overall review:
10/10
A lovely album packed full of romantic ballads, talented celebrity duets, revised classics and a mixture of pop, country, folk, classical and a touch of soul. Ronan’s soothing voice reminds me of my happy childhood. Hearing his voice with brand new tracks makes me feel that everything in this crazy world right now will be ok.
Another brilliant album from the incredibly talented Mr Keating.
Favourite song:
Forever Ain’t Enough
Listen to Twenty Twenty – out now!
Songs written by: Tom Mann, Patrick Patrikios, Hanni Ibrahim, Ben Harrison, Fraser Churchill, Ronan Keating, Rick Parkhouse, George Tizzard, Dan Healy, Jonny Wright, Shane Filan, Markus Feehily, James Birt, Ed Drewett, Ina Wroldsen, Paul Overstreet, Donald Alan Schlitz Jr, Steve Robson, Rachel Clare Furner, Nina Nesbitt, Robbie Williams, Martin Page, Gregg Alexander, Richard Nowels, Peter-John Vettese
Amazing comments Sophia.
You’ve made me want to listen to the album.
So pleased your name is in the book too!!!!
Happy singing!