Liverpool Sound and Vision Rating * * * *
A missed opportunity or a solid finale to a series of re-releases, Decades Volume 3: Cornucopia treads a path for Belinda Carlisle in such a way that the chance to hear and reflect on songs that never made it to albums, to run through the songs released from the eight studio albums, a small set of new recordings, and live recordings that made it on to the B sides of seven inch singles is a perfect way to sign off on a project that details the entrancing career of the former Go Go’s vocalist; or in some eyes as a release too far, not enough emphasis on the live experience, perhaps even just one whole cd dedicated one of the concerts she gave at the height of her fame as a solo performer…unless that is the plan and a fourth release of her works is even now being planned.
The decision comes down to the fan, the completist, and in that respect, even with a flourish of a live performance acting as the natural book end to the series, Belinda Carlisle’s Decades Volume 3: Cornucopia is a moment where treasure is unearthed, a forgotten lore is once again sung with devastating beauty and a profusion of wealth, and every moment that is available is detailed and assured.
The way the box sets have been produced have added greatly to the experience, and as tracks such as In My Wildest Dreams from the 80s hit comedy film Mannequin is remembered, as songs such as Christmas Lullaby, Bless The Beasts And The Children, Superstar, If You Could Read My Mind, radio edits such as I Get Weak, the enormously satisfying cover of Cream’s I Feel Free, Leave A Light On For Me, and the huge hit of Heaven Is A Place On Earth all come together in unison, the book end is complete, even without the added decoration.
Belinda Carlise is held in such affection by the public that the volume releases are undeniably worth the money shelled out for them, it is the chance to reminisce in one of pop’s most complex souls, but one who gives the audience a patience of splendour in excess and resolute bounty. A terrifically and fully laden volume, proving once again that heaven is wherever Belinda Carlisle says it is.
Ian D. Hall