Serenade is unlikely to be the first album you think of when you consider Neil Diamond’s illustrious career, yet to dismiss Serenade would be a great disservice to one’s musical journey for it’s a hidden gem and one of his most enjoyable records; once you give it a few listens, of course.

Yes, the lack of immediacy in appreciating this release is of concern, but every album need not talk to you the first time you listen to it for it to be an exceptional release and, in this case, Serenade will serenade you, if you give it a chance. As to how many times you’ll need to listen to this 1974 release, in order to appreciate it fully, is highly subjective, but I’d suggest a few play-throughs will give you a good sense of the flow of the album; a record that is knocking on the door of an EP’s length with a runtime only barely exceeding half an hour.

Of course, good music need not be dictated by an album’s runtime, for the CD era proved how detrimental filler material can be to an album’s success, longevity, and reverence. With that in mind, the eight songs on Serenade are masterfully produced with an exceptional mix that is thoroughly engaging and indicative of the high-quality standards most often associated with Neil Diamond. Vibrantly showcasing his ability to blend storytelling and heartfelt melodies, Serenade is a highly polished record, with lush arrangements, that are complemented by Diamond’s deep and evocative vocals, thereby creating an intimate, yet expansive, listening experience.

While my only exposure to this album has been via the Hi-Res Lossless Apple Music stream, the Apple Digital Master is derived from the most recent remastering of the album, from 2014, and while I can’t speak for anyone else, I feel these remastered editions, from Diamond’s back catalogue, sound simply magnificent. You’ll experience a full-bodied sound with an enveloping soundstage and enough clarity between all musical elements that allow each musical contribution room to breathe. It really is a beautiful mastering; one that allows the recording and mix to fully shine so that music lovers, such as ourselves, can simply sit back and enjoy the songs that make up this classic release.

I've Been This Way Before is a beautiful opening ballad. As the song builds slowly, with Diamond’s vocals front and centre, the warm orchestral backing crescendos into a powerful conclusion; one that is perfectly suited to Diamond’s overall style and offers the listener a musical journey that is thoroughly enjoyable.

Rosemary's Wine picks up the tempo a little with a melody and delicate acoustic instrumentation that will likely remind you of any number of singer-songwriter folk-based tunes. The simple arrangement allows Diamond’s vocals to shine but as lovely as the song is, I feel it is too short and should have had an additional verse and chorus for by the time it comes to an end, I find myself wanting more.

Lady Magdalene, by comparison, is the longest track on the album and worthy of every second, for it’s a sprawling song, with an almost hypnotic meditative quality, that is somewhat of a hidden gem in Diamond’s extensive back catalogue. Again, sticking with a minimalistic musical accompaniment, the song gradually swells into a grander arrangement that will appeal to just about any music lover, not just Neil Diamond fans. Lady Magdalene is, subsequently, one of Diamond’s greatest performances and one that casual fans, had they not heard this album, would have sadly overlooked.

The Last Picasso is a mid-tempo number that offers a delightful contrast to the tunes that have come before it. Showcasing Diamond’s playful style, this jazz-focused arrangement is a masterpiece and sonic pleasure that exudes sophistication, thereby making it a refreshing interlude.

Longfellow Serenade is one of Diamond’s more well-known tunes from Serenade as it topped the charts upon release as the album’s lead single. As you listen, you’ll find yourself toe-tapping and head-bopping along to the addictively good rhythm. Be prepared, however, for Longfellow Serenade is also an irresistible earworm; one that will stay with you until you play the song again.

Yes I Will is a stunningly beautiful tune. It is Neil Diamond at his very best and is another hidden gem.

Reggae Strut adds a touch of Caribbean flair that adds a lighthearted vibe to the album. However, despite the infectiously fun groove, it does feel a little out-of-place when compared directly to the tonality of the former tracks.

The Gift Of Song is a perfect closer; one that also compels me to listen to the album again for Serenade can seldom be listened to once. As has been the case throughout the entire album, the understated arrangement, primarily comprised of piano and strings, ensures that Diamond’s sensational vocals are paramount within the mix. It, really, is a gift to music lovers the world over.

Serenade is a masterful collection of songs that highlights Diamond’s versatility as a songwriter and performer. The album’s balance of introspective ballads, playful diversions, and lush orchestration creates a cohesive yet dynamic listening experience; one that stands as a timeless testament to this master singer-songwriter and is a must-listen for dedicated and casual fans alike.