(11 November 2001) The latest album from multi-platinum artist Sarah Brightman entitled Classics (Angel (USA) 7243 5 33257 2 5 V, 2001) blends familiar pieces with four all-new recordings. Classics is the essential collection that showcases the ultimate soprano voice in classical contemporary crossover today. New material joins a selection of the singer's own favourtie classical songs from her chart-topping albums Eden and La Luna (review), including her solo version of the international hit single "Time To Say Goodbye."

The new collection is the ultimate Sarah Brightman experience, one that begins with the sexy, smoldering image of the singer on the cover, hinting at the pleasures within. Through Brightman's inimitable sensual soprano, an edgy, here-and-now sensuality emerges from the sublime classical roots of these songs, reminding the listner why The Hollywood Reporter marveled at her gift for being "a delicate waif one minute, operatic diva the next."

Brand new tracks include "Ave Maria," "Winter Light" and a new performance of "Pie Jesu" from Andrew Lloyd Webber's Requiem, which was written specially for Sarah. Two other new songs, "Alhambra" and "Dans La Nuit," are original Brightman adaptations, featuring newly-written lyrics sung to classical melodies by Tarréga and Chopin respectively. All five of these tracks plus new recordings of "O Mio Babbino Caro" and "Nessun Dorma" feature Sarah singing with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.

The Classics album includes "La Wally," another hit from the Time To Say Goodbye album. Selections from Eden include "Lascia Ch'io Pianga," "Anytime, Anywhere" and the stunning "Baïllero." From La Luna, selections include "Serenade/How Fair This Place," "Figlio Perduto" and the title track.

Sarah Brightman has defined the classical contemporary crossover genre and contributed to its growth since releasing Time To Say Goodbye (Timeless in Europe and other territories) and following it up with Eden and 2000's La Luna. Stunning DVDs of concerts to support the artist's last two compact disc releases are equally notable. Single remixes have reached top spots on various worldwide charts.

Additional information, photos and tour dates are available on Sarah's updated website. Find further information on this album, read additional reviews, listen to soundbites and order the album from amazon.comhere. Certainly worth a trans-Atlantic journey, Sarah Brightman's Classics is a must listen!