``Closer'': New Josh Groban Album Set for November 11th Release; Follow Up to Five Million Selling Debut CD.

Entertainment Editors

BURBANK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 21, 2003

The much-anticipated follow up to singer Josh Groban's debut release is scheduled to be in stores on November 11th. "Closer" on Reprise Records features thirteen new songs including the artist's current single, "You Raise Me Up." The new album, recorded over a seven month period earlier this year in Los Angeles and France, represents a stunning creative leap forward for the 22-year old baritone who brings his distinctive artistry to a wide range of styles from pure pop to classical.

"Closer," which for the first time features material co-written by the artist, is produced by David Foster, Walter Afanasieff and Eric Mouquet of the acclaimed duo Deep Forest who perform on the album as well. Also included is a guest appearance by the world-renowned violinist Joshua Bell. In addition, Groban makes his recording debut as a pianist.

With songs recorded in English, Italian, French and Spanish, Groban's new CD reveals breathtaking new facets of the young vocalist's phenomenal talent. "Closer" contains three songs co-written by Groban: "Per Te," "Never Let Go," and "Remember When It Rained." Other standouts include "Mi Mancherai" from the soundtrack of the film "Il Postino" featuring Joshua Bell; "Hymne A L'amour" originally recorded by Edith Piaf and the weepingly romantic "My Confession" written by Richard Page.

"My life is an unfinished project but instead of just saying, 'how do I top what I've accomplished?', I decided I wanted to move forward, express my growth and take a big step into the next chapter. I think this album has brought me 'closer' to what I want to achieve," commented Groban regarding the follow-up to his extraordinarily successful five million-selling self-titled debut release.

There will also be a special limited edition release which will include two extra songs and a DVD. Members of the artist's online fan club will be able to download three additional songs from the artist's website joshgroban.com.

Groban will also launch his first-ever International tour beginning January of 2004 with an extensive itinerary beginning with coast-to-coast performances in North America. He is also scheduled to perform on "Good Morning America" on November 11th and "The View" on November 13th.

Bursting into the International music spotlight in 200l with the release of his self-titled debut album featuring the hit single, "To Where You Are," Groban's career ascent continued with scores of television appearances including two standout performances on "Ally McBeal," "Oprah Winfrey," and NBC's "Concert For America' amongst many others. A bravura concert for PBS' Great Performances series followed. Later released as a DVD, the PBS special itself went on to become the No. 1 selling DVD of the year. "Josh Groban In Concert" sold over a half million copies.

Crowned "The new Boy Wonder of the voice" by the NY Times, Josh Groban would go on to be seen by over a billion people when he performed at the closing ceremonies of the Salt Lake City Olympics. Many were instantly converted into rabid "Grobanites," as the artist's worldwide fan following has affectionately dubbed themselves. Most recently, the artist fulfilled a lifelong dream by appearing on Broadway in a concert rendition of the musical "Chess" as a benefit for the Actor's Fund.