Bridges

He’s a pop singer, Broadway thespian and sitcom star. With <i>Bridges</i>, Josh Groban confirms his musical ambassador status. It feels like his eighth studio album was intended to invite the whole world in during divisive times. The opening trio of songs are pure Groban—a reassuring pick-me-up, a heartfelt love letter to someone far away and a moment of reflection. Then <i>Bridges</i> really starts to cook. He shows his versatility and facility with other languages on the delightful French and Spanish songs “Musica del Corazon” and “S’il suffisait d’aimer”. The cultural exchange continues with country star Jennifer Nettles joining Groban on the pretty ballad “99 Years”. His sister-from-another-mister Sarah McLachlan drops in for a breath-stealing duet, “Run”. And just when you think your heart is about to burst, Andrea Bocelli appears for a mic-dropping collaboration, “We Will Meet Once Again”. Groban does it all with genuine charm and sophistication.