Celine Dion - A New Day... Live In Las Vegas (2004)

After two studio records, an intensive media campaign for a large automobile company, a new perfume fragrance, and a successful tour and residency in Las Vegas, one would reason that Celine Dion is long overdue for yet another sabbatical after a rather intensive 18-month span. However, this is not to be the case. This live document of the Las Vegas show drives home the point that Celine is one of the most potent entertainers in adult contemporary music. A smattering of her greatest hits ("My Heart Will Go On," "Because You Loved Me," "It's All Coming Back to Me Now") is mixed with vocal standards (a rather enchanting rendition of Etta James' brilliant "At Last," "What a Wonderful World," "I've Got the World On a String"), bringing a balanced, well-conceived program that highlights the dynamics and versatility in Dion's voice. She's equally as comfortable in high-tempo numbers chock-full of her signature vocal acrobatics as she is in quiet, contemplative moments. It's an ideal souvenir for those who have experienced the magic with their own ears and eyes. And while it's not the most definitive document of Dion's career, it certainly is a stirring testament to her accomplishments as the standard to whom most vocalists aspire.

~ Rob Theakston, All Music