Tom Jones: Live at Cardiff Castle

Welshman Tom Jones enjoys a spectacular homecoming in this concert set on the fantastic grounds of Wales' Cardiff Castle, where a massive crowd sings and sways along with the pop bluesman as he warms up with assorted covers ("Hard to Handle," "Never Tear Us Apart"), tinkers with classics (a big, E-Street Band-like arrangement on Elvis' "I'm Left, You're Right, She's Gone"), and attempts--ill-advisedly--a down-and-dirty version of the Talking Heads' "Burning Down the House." Much better is the country effort "Without Love" and a soaring, powerful "A Boy From Nowhere." In addition, Jones' solo version of Van Morrison's "Sometimes We Cry" (Jones and Morrison recorded it together) is a lovely piece of gospel testimony, while his country blues take on Keb' Mo's "Am I Wrong" proves interesting, if a little forced. Not surprisingly, the classics work best: "I'll Never Fall in Love Again," "Green, Green Grass of Home," and "It's Not Unusual" still have the old pop conviction. Presented in DTS, Dolby Digital 5.1, and PCM stereo, the disc's extras include a good interview with Jones and a discography. A strong optional purchase. Aud: P. (T. Keogh)