Sweetest Illusion by Basia

Sweetest Illusion

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Sweetest Illusion

Features

Audio CD (May 3, 1994)

Original Release Date: May 3, 1994

Number of Discs: 1

Label: Sony

Catalog Number: 64255

Reader Reviews
Basia and Sade both create gorgeous works seemingly irrespective of public taste, what's currently "hot" and "hip," and yet each of their CDs sound fresh and wonderful for many years after its initial release. You never get tired of listening to Basia or Sade, and it isn't just because they each put out new works so infrequently. The first time I heard "The Sweetest Illusion," I was, I'll admit, a little disappointed that the Brasilian influences were a bit more subtle than on previous works. I very quickly realized the power and depth of this album, however, and how much it demonstrates Basia's growth as a singer and songwriter. The songs are a bit longer and less pop-oriented than on the first two CDs. "Drunk on Love" and "Third Time Lucky" are witty and sophisticated, with irresistable melodies. She sings "third time lucky, and you've arrived," and I think that's very true of the artist herself on this CD. "Third Time Lucky" is classic Basia, with delicately-entwined harmonies, exotic, samba-soaked percussion, wonderful piano work by Danny White, and even a jubilant whistling hook, and the song's ending is jazzy and wild. "Yearning" is a long, slow-paced piece about finding a home in the heart of a loved one. It's a gorgeous, unforgettable ballad. "She Deserves it" is a gentle, bossa nova-esque duet with Trey Lorenz, and is juxtaposed with the instrumental "Rachel's Wedding." The link between the two is thematic, and it is a perfect wedding present for the lucky Rachel. "Hug an Olive Tree" is lively, fun, and exuberant, similar to the song "Copernicus" from the "London Warsaw New York" CD. "The Sweetest Illusion" begins with elegant strings before launching into an explosive tempo and intriguing lyrics (by Peter Ross) overlayed with Danny White's keyboard mayhem. The sound recaptures some of the frantic magic of Basia's Matt Bianco days. "Perfect Mother" is another very quiet and gentle number, full of beautiful harmonies, and obviously deeply personal. Next is the very upbeat "More Fire than Flame," which is heated up with lots of brass touches and a very urgent chorus. "Simple Pleasures" is yet one more lush, gentle bossa nova-like piece, evoking "Brave New Hope" from the previous CD. "My Cruel Ways" is, in my opinion, the strongest song on the CD. The lyrics are wise and personal, the strings rich and emotional, and the song brings the haunting bass lines from "I Heard it Through the Grapevine" to mind in places. The final track, "The Prayer of a Happy Housewife," is a simple, heartfelt message of gratitude for a wonderful life. I'm not completely bowled-over by this song, but the soaring, gospel-flavoured choruses anticipate the song "Clear Horizon" from her later greatest hits CD. Another remarkable work by an amazing artist.

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