Review: This Old Love (EP) by Chris Peluso

Chris Peluso is currently playing Sir Percival Glyde in (my new favorite show) The Woman in White at Charing Cross Theatre in London, but he also just released his first EP, "This Old Love."

Chris is known for roles in shows like Miss Saigon, Death Takes a Holiday, and Showboat here in London, but he's also performed across his native United States in shows like Wicked and way back in the day was in the La Jolla Playhouse pre-Broadway cast of Bonnie and Clyde.


I always am excited about a performer releasing an album, so I had to give this one a listen and I'm so glad that I did. The album is made up of five tracks: four covers of popular music in addition to a cover of "Send in the Clowns" from A Little Night Music.

If I had to describe the album in one word, it would be soothing. Many of the songs on the album like "This Old Love," "Caught in the Rain," and "Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow?" remind me of Garth Brooks (but without his country twang). They have a simple honesty to them with equally simple musical arrangements that allow Chris to show off his voice alongside some lovely guitar music. I also think the use of horns in "This Old Love" is a nice touch.

Chris's version of "Send in the Clowns" feels like a lullaby and is very well suited to his voice. Although beware: I once almost fell asleep on the Tube while listening to it.

The last song on the album is one of those songs that many male actors seem to cover (no, it's not "Run Away with Me"). I've heard many versions of "Hallelujah," including my own on the ukulele, and Chris's is actually very beautiful. His voice never seems strained as some people's do and it's the song he shows the most emotion on of the whole album.

I do still prefer this version by Ramin Karimloo aided by his son Jaiden, but Chris's is a close second. It's a strong finish to a wonderful first EP. Let's hope Chris has plans for a second in the future! x
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