SEAL - CRAZY

Crazy is a great tune and in the grand tradition of single releases, we're treated to a plethora of mixes, odds and ends. The 'Crazy (Single Mix)' is more or less an edit of the album version. The second track mixed by William Orbit is probably my favorite of all the mixes. There's a wonderful build and blend to the mix that really stands out. The 'Crazy (Acoustic Version/Instrumental Version)' is an interesting piece. It starts out with a great acoustic rendition of the song with Seal's vocals to the fore and suddenly morphs into an ambient rhythm. It's a strange choice to combine such different sounding versions together and seems slightly haphazard.

'Crazy (A Cappella Mix)' isn't entirely an accurate description of the next mix. Seal's vocals are backed by odd bleeps and trance noises used for orchestration. It's more like a science experiment than a decent mix. 'Krazy' is Tim Simenon's version of the track and is also a satisfying mix. The final two mixes didn't leave a huge impression aside from what seems like a different vocal performance on the 'Crazy (Chick On My Tip Mix)'.

'Sparkle', the single's only b-side is a danceable tune with a lively beat and repetitive lyrics. Despite it's limited scope, it's an entertaining ditty and enjoyable to listen to.

Often, singles get bogged down in mixes that identify more with the mixers than the original band and performance. In this case, careful attention has been paid to maintain the integrity of Seal's original release. With special vocal tracks on mixes and an interesting b-side this is a great single to own. Well worth the expense. My final words: WELL BALANCED.

SEAL - CRAZY
01. Crazy (Single Mix)
02. Crazy (William Orbit Mix)
03. Crazy (Acoustic Version/Instrumental Version)
04. Crazy (A Cappella Mix)
05. Sparkle (Extended Version)
06. Krazy
07. Crazy (Do You Know The Way To L.A. Mix)
08. Crazy (Chick On My Tip Mix)