This is without a doubt Neil Diamond's best album outside of his soundtrack efforts. It is also the last album in which he penned almost every song alone (1 cover, 1 song w/a co-writer). This album was produced by David Foster who gave Neil a rough edge on the upbeat songs while keeping the "mush" on the ballads fairly subdued. The title song, "Carmalita's Eyes", and "If I Couldn't See You Again" are my favorite tracks, but there really isn't a weak song on this one. If you like Mr. Diamond you'll love this, if you don't care for him you'll still probably like it, and may even convert (my wife is proof of that). I think this album represents Neil's last great effort as a writer and a singer.

Neil Diamond was back in form with this effort. What drew me to this artist from the beginning of his career was his penchant for strong, identifiable melodies over a simple harmonic structure-not unlike, say, "Greensleeves" and a host of other timeless airs. His voice lacks in range, but the resonant baritone radiates warmth. Best efforts are "Hard Time for Lovers", If I Couldn't See You Again", and "Hooked on the Memory of You", the last of which being his best vocal effort as it is for the most part, simply stated. Excellent effort, also, on his homage to Tracy Chapman, for whom he has great respect. Which brings me to my lone negative criticism: sometimes Mr. Diamond emotes as a person acting like he is singing with feeling rather than just singing with feeling. Did he ever do anything differently? Just listen to "Brooklyn Roads." A solid effort from an American Icon.

Have almost every Neil Diamond album and/or CD but this one by and far remains my favorite. Love every song on it and reminds me why I have always been an avid Neil Diamond fan. Have been listening to and enjoying this CD for 20 years and have yet to tire of it. If you're a Neil Diamond fan, this is a must have!

First, this is a wonderful CD for Neil Diamond's fans. It is a pleasant listening experience for those who are not biased toward Neil Diamond because of "critics." The editorial reviewer totally took Neil Diamond's words to Bob Dylan OUT OF CONTEXT. Any fan can tell you that. He was complimenting Dylan and making a joke.....Do some research before you take a quote out of context. With so called critics like yourself, it's a wonder Neil Diamond has sold so many albums.....but then again, maybe the people are smarter than the "critics" would like to believe.

I have had this album for some while but now I am converting them all to CD. This CD was bought while I was on holiday in the US and it cost me less than half the price I would have had to pay in the UK