Danny Boy

What you'll think of this release may depend entirely on whether you have a desire to hear Queen's "We Are the Champions" arranged for voice, chorus, and symphony orchestra, but you really shouldn't make that snap decision. Timed for the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II and the 2012 Summer Olympics, British crossover star Russell Watson has released a patriotic album of British material, not neglecting Ireland (Danny Boy) or the Flower of Scotland. It all sounds a bit over the top, but be aware that Watson has a real flair for this kind of project.

As one of the greatest and most popular female pop singers working during radio s Golden Age, Peggy Lee made her share of appearances on the dial, particularly on her own radio show that, starting in 1951, was broadcast over the CBS network and the Armed Forces Radio Service. But, unlike many of her contemporaries who have had their on-air performances compiled into collections both legitimate and not, Peggy has never really enjoyed a proper retrospective of her radio appearances…until now!

The follow-up to A Love So Beautiful features Roy Orbison vocal performances with brand-new orchestral arrangements by The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, recorded at Abbey Road Studios. Additional accompaniment from Roy’s three sons and backing vocals from their wives and children. That haunting voice, that unique look, those uplifting and emotional songs—there is only one Roy Orbison, and fans once again get to hear him in a new way on Unchained Melodies: Roy Orbison with The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.