This short CD released by Tim Russ, best known as Star Trek: Voyager’s Tuvok, consists of covers of four songs by songwriters as diverse as Billy Joel (“Rosalinda’s Eyes”), Mark Knopfler (a bitingly sarcastic ode to Mrs. Marcos, “Imelda”), Randy Newman (“Louisiana, 1927”) and James Taylor (the title track, “Only A Dream In Rio”). The four songs’ style is dictated mainly by the first track, a sort of James Taylor-esque light jazz/folk style. The CD’s very sparing packaging only identifies Russ as the lead vocalist and lists a backup singer and a sax player, so I’m not sure if I’d be accurate in praising Russ for the simple but enjoyable instrumental work that backs up his singing, but his vocals are enjoyable. One has no doubt, while listening, to whom the voice belongs, but Tim Russ can change his style to fit the song, whether he effectively emulates the growly delivery of Dire Straits’ Knopfler on “Imelda”, or Newman’s own brand of folksy soul.
Russ’ CD was available through a special offer on the official Star Trek web site, and is probably available through the actor’s official fan club as well. I heartily recommend this one for his dedicated fans, and I have to thank Tim Russ for proving, like Brent Spiner did several years ago, that there are, in fact, members of the cast of Star Trek who can sing after all.
- Only A Dream In Rio (3:48)
- Imelda (3:31)
- Louisiana 1927 (2:55)
- Rosalinda’s Eyes (2:59)
Released by: The Tim Russ Fan Club
Release date: 1998
Total running time: 13:16
