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SO MANY NEW RELEASES,
AND THE QUALITY VARIES
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By Chris Curcio
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Phoenix, AZ (April 4, 2009) - Lots of new cast CDs have been released since my last update so the reviews below are lengthy. Many old shows have been re-released and a few chestnut shows are being released as first time CDs. Most new releases of old musicals come from DRG Theater in an arrangement with Sony's Masterworks Broadway. Sony now owns almost all old record company catalogues.
Arkiv Music is also re-releasing old Sony-owned show albums. Arkiv just distributed a list of show albums to be released on Tuesday. These include "disinHAIRited," a first time CD and filled with songs considered but later dropped from the original "Hair" production, "Hazel Flagg," "Jimmy" starring Frank Gorshin, "The Last Sweet Days of Issac," "Let It Ride!" with George Gobel, "New Faces of 1952," "New Faces of 1956" and the 1976 Public Theater revival of "The Threepenny Opera."
Those show recordings not owned by Sony are finding re-release opportunities on the Kritzerland label. They just released "Anya," a long out-of-print recording, reviewed below. Their next re-release will be "Illya Darling" in May with previously unreleased tracks.
Various labels are releasing new Broadway shows but the releases aren't appearing as quickly after Broadway openings as they once did. "Road Show" will come out on PS Classics who is co-producing the revised Stephen Sondheim show with Nonesuch. The new Broadway musical "Next to Normal" will have a digital release Tuesday and an in-store release May 12 from Ghostlight Records. PS Classics will release "The Story of My Life" on June 2. This was the two-character Broadway musical that closed a few days after it opened to bad reviews. The much-heralded "West Side Story" revival gets recorded Monday for June release, while the poorly received "Guys and Dolls" will probably not be recorded. Apparently, there won't be a recording of the recent Roundabout Theatre Company "Pal Joey" revival. That's a shame because Stockard Channing's Vera Simpson delivered the best ever "Bewitched."
Footlight Records re-opened under new owner Bruce Yeko of Original Cast Records and they are getting the kinks ironed out as they ship orders. It's nice to have this single source back so all cast CDs can be obtained from a single web site. The web site is easy to check, order, and navigate.
NEW CD REVIEWS
"ALLEGRO"
Studio Cast - 2009
Masterworks Broadway (88697-41738-2)
Rodgers and Hammerstein's third show, "Allegro," debuted in 1947 and after the success of "Oklahoma" "Carousel" and the movie musical "State Fair," the new musical proved to be the team's first flop. The show was plagued by an unusual book, but the new complete recording released by Masterworks Broadway is a tribute to the fine score Richard Rodgers crafted. The cast is composed of contemporary musical theater favorites and the leads are played by Laura Benanti, Norbert Leo Butz, Liz Callaway, Nathan Gunn, Judy Kuhn, Audra McDonald, Marni Nixon and Patrick Wilson with the supporting cast full of other Broadway veterans. It couldn't be a better ensemble and the score sounds bright and brilliant. Larry Blank does a fine job conducting the 50-piece Istropolis Philharmonic Orchestra and the cast. The songs are a collection of greats with many shadowing later Rodgers and Hammerstein song creations. The show was created by Oscar Hammerstein II and represented a new way of telling a story in a musical. The show was so trend-setting that audiences at the time found it a challenge. It's unfortunate that the show is rarely mounted today because even though the storytelling can be perplexing, the score is wonderfully melodic and it is brilliantly sung here by the impeccable cast. This new and complete "Allegro" recording may help revive interest in the show.
Grade: A
"SHREK THE MUSICAL"
Original Broadway Cast
Decca Broadway (B0012627-02)
Decca Broadway took a big chance on recording the new Broadway show "Shrek The Musical." It has met with very mixed reactions on Broadway. The show has been most criticized as being over produced but the cast CD reveals a score that is melodic and some of the song lyrics are funny even if the show is geared to young audiences. Some song lyrics are quite suggestive and will go over the heads of young audiences so there is something of interest to the children's chaperones. The cast is fine with Brian d'Arcy James as the lead and singing "Big, Bright Beautiful World" very effectively. Broadway charmer Sutton Foster contributes several winning songs with her usual breezy and relaxed style. Christopher Sieber's fine "What's Up, Duloc?" is also a CD highlight. The accompanying booklet has all the show's lyrics and an abundance of pictures so the entire presentation is nice although the way the CD is stored is in a cheap paper binder lacking the permanence of a plastic CD case. Just know that the music is far better than the show I saw in New York.
Grade: B
"LIZA'S AT THE PALACE..."
Broadway Cast
Hybrid Recordings (HY20053-2)
Liza Minnelli recently created a popular revue and took it to Broadway. It's great that the show was recorded. "Liza's at the Palace..." features, in two CDs, her entire show. The first disc features many renditions of now classic Minnelli tunes. Her renditions sound solid and good. The second disc features Liza's tribute to her godmother, Kay Thompson. These songs are new to Minnelli. Liza sounds better than she has in some time and the first disc has some forceful and winning new renditions of Minnelli favorites including the inevitable "Cabaret." It's a smashing demonstration that Minnelli still has the pipes and charisma to carry a show like this one. The second disc contains far more interesting songs and Minnelli does the Thompson tribute with loving perfection. It's good to hear Minnelli sounding so good and even if she's not quite what she was in her heyday, she's back in top form.
Grade: A
"FORBIDDEN BROADWAY GOES TO REHAB"
Original Off-Broadway Cast
DRG Theater (12633)
The final "Forbidden Broadway" revue entitled "Forbidden Broadway Goes to Rehab" is a fitting tribute to the closing show in the 27th year of Gerard Alessandrini's popular off-Broadway entertainment that ridicules, with great hilarity, Broadway's latest attractions. The show uses the actual show tunes but with biting new satirical lyrics that slam the many musicals and plays "Forbidden Broadway" picks apart. In this final edition such shows as "In the Heights," the "South Pacific" revival, Patti LuPone's "Gypsy," "Young Frankenstein" and "Equus," along with some of the previous editions funniest satires, roast those Broadway vehicles. Celebrities get roasted, too, including Broadway stars Kristen Chenoweth, Bernadette Peters, Liza Minnelli and Harry Connick Jr. The show also spoofs some Broadway failures like "Tale of Two Cities" and "Xanadu," along with some big slaps at Stephen Sondheim. It's all very funny and this last edition is one of the best.
Grade: A
"UNBEATABLE"
Original Phoenix Cast
Other Productions, Inc. (No Number)
Those of us in Phoenix had the great fortune to see the world premiere of the musical "Unbeatable," an outstanding show that dealt in an amazingly upbeat way with breast cancer. Now, this brilliant new show has been recorded before it makes a New York debut. The winning score is by Todd Schroeder and Kevin Fisher in a concept developed by Michael Barnard, Phoenix Theatre's artistic director and the person who masterfully conceived the show's first production. The memorable cast that includes many Phoenix performers is headed by Kristy Cates. This CD is available by checking the show's online address, www.unbeatablemusical.com.
Grade: A
"ANYA"
Original Broadway Cast
Kritzerland (KR 20012-2)
Kritzerland is releasing that long cherished Broadway flop "Anya," the 1965 musical that played a short and troubled New York run but faded into oblivion except for the cast record that captured the lushly romantic and melodic score based on Sergei Rachmaninoff compositions. "Anya" had its music and lyrics by Robert Wright and George Forrest who had previously adapted major classical composers into past musical successes including "Kismet" and "Song of Norway" and such failures as "At the Grand." It's nice to finally have this score available on CD. The cast included the wonderfully voiced Constance Towers, the rich baritone of Michael Kermoyan, Irra Petina, and film star Lillian Gish. This is a cherished cast recording and it is now finally available for collectors and show music aficionados to hear.
Grade: A
"BROADWAY MUSICALS OF 1930"
Original Town Hall Cast
Original Cast Records (OC 6241)
The ongoing Broadway by the Year series continues with the release of "Broadway Musicals of 1930" that was recorded live in 2006. This show features the two big and memorable hits, "Girl Crazy" and "Strike Up The Band," along with a song or two from the myriad of other forgotten shows including "The New Yorkers," "Lew Leslie's International Revue," "Smiles," "Blackbirds of 1930," "Three's A Crowd," "Nina Rosa," "Simple Simon," "Who Cares?" and "9:15 Revue." As always, creator and host Scott Siegel provides some pithy comments about the season, other historic events, and provides a linkage of songs. His cast includes such Broadway stalwarts as Marc Kudisch, Emily Skinner, and Mary Testa among the dozen cast members. These Broadway by the Year recordings are always interesting visits into the year captured and they provide a sense of that year's shows and why they appeared.
Grade: A
"TO BROADWAY WITH LOVE"
Original Cast
DRG Theater/Sony Music (19122)
The first of DRG Theater's re-releases is actually of a non-Broadway show, "To Broadway with Love." It was an over-produced revue that actually played at the 1964 New York World's Fair at the Texas Pavilion. It ran a short time with two alternating casts. The recording was made when one cast was performing so this new release only represents half of the total ensemble. With lavish production numbers, "To Broadway with Love" hoped to capture Broadway's grandeur. Some of the show's few original songs were by the popular Broadway composing team of Bock and Harnick who are remembered more for their more famous Broadway musical creations. This tribute was conceived and directed by Morton Da Costa and many of the selected tunes did not come from Broadway musicals. None of the lavish production numbers were inspired by Broadway creations either. Of all the show recordings that haven't been turned into CDs, "To Broadway with Love" is probably not one many fans were waiting for or were hoping would make it to a CD transfer. Why DRG Theater wasted its time with this show is a question that will never be well addressed.
Grade: D
"WILDCAT"
Original Broadway Cast
DRG Theater/Sony Music (19119)
The Lucille Ball musical "Wildcat" has been available before on CD. While Ball captivated audiences and her one standout hit, "Hey, Look Me Over!," is quite famous, the rest of the show is pretty ordinary. Apparently, when Ball grew tired of the eight weekly Broadway performance schedule, she got sick and the show closed for awhile but after she returned, she didn't last long and the show was history. The piece is rarely revived and without a dominant personality at the center of it, there's not much to the cast recording except Ball's dynamite rendition of the title tune.
Grade: C
"TAKE ME ALONG"
Original Broadway Cast
DRG Theater/Sony Music (19116)
"Take Me Along" is one of the most refreshing little shows. The score is excellent, the adaptation of Eugene O'Neill's only comedy "Ah, Wilderness" is delightful, and the cast album is a treasure with the impeccable people who are perfectly assigned to their roles. Of course, Jackie Gleason is actually in one of the play's supporting roles but he turns the part into a charming guy. Walter Pidgeon certainly can't sing but turns the small town newspaper editor into a wonderfully warm characterization and Eileen Herlie is perfect as the wallflower sister. Robert Morse makes a splash in a small role and with his energetic singing allows us to see why he was used to star in "How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying." There are standouts in Robert Merrill's score but the title tune is catchy and all the tunes are pleasant little ditties sung with heartfelt warmth and vivaciousness. "Take Me Along" has been available before on CD but it's nice to have this little gem back.
Grade: A
"MAGGIE FLYNN"
Original Broadway Cast
DRG Theater/Sony Music (19123)
"Maggie Flynn" has not been available previously as a CD and the score is a joy for a less-than-successful musical that debuted in 1968. The leads are played with great fun by the husband/wife team of Shirley Jones (at the height of her vocal beauty here) and Jack Cassidy as a Shakespearean actor. The story has Maggie as the headmistress of an orphanage. Lots of things happen but the story and show were not popular. The score is a delight and it's really nice to have this show available as a CD.
Grade: B
"WISH YOU WERE HERE"
Original Broadway Cast
DRG Theater/Sony Music (19121)
"Wish You Were Here" had the distinction of being in 1952 one of the few Broadway musicals that didn't have an out-of-town tryout to work the bugs out of the new show. The reason was that the show had a swimming pool used in just one scene and that construction at the Imperial Theatre made it impossible to tour the new show. The show was about adult summer camps and also boasted a basketball court. The show debuted June 25, the hottest day of that summer and, at that time Broadway theaters weren't air-conditioned. The show didn't get good reviews but a radio interview with director Leland Hayward saved the show. The score is cute and catchy and the original cast was filled with performers who went on to some Broadway fame. The biggest name among the cast was Jack Cassidy. The show ended with a 598-performance run and a London production. It's nice to have the original cast recording available again.
Grade: C
"MR. PRESIDENT"
Original Broadway Cast
DRG Theater/Sony Music (19124)
"Mr. President" was Irving Berlin's last Broadway show. It was not a success but many of the tunes are pleasant, if not distinguished. The show also marked film actor Robert Ryan's only Broadway musical and he has trouble carrying a tune. The rest of the cast included the wonderful Nanette Fabray and the perky Anita Gillette and the entire cast gave its all to this show about being the U. S. President. The story is inane and makes the Presidency seem like fun without any of the pressure we know the job includes. This show has been available on CD before but since it was Berlin's last Broadway musical, there's a certain nostalgia in the musical and that's why it's back.
Grade: C
"CAROUSEL"
Music Theater of Lincoln Center Cast
Arkiv Music/Masterworks Broadway/Sony Music (SONY 92871)
The Music Theater of Lincoln Center's 1965 "Carousel" revival included a still strong-voiced John Raitt recreating his original Billy role with Eileen Christy's clear-voiced Julie and Susan Watson's delightfully funny Carrie. The music is lovely and all of it is well sung here. There are four bonus tracks from two other "Carousel" recordings and the sound of each from the operatic version with Robert Merrill and Patrice Munsel to the more natural Raitt and Doretta Morrow versions are very different. This "Carousel" cast recording has been available before, too. It is one of the better versions of Richard Rodgers' fine score.
Grade: B
"OKLAHOMA"
Studio Cast - 1952
Arkiv Music/Masterworks Broadway/Sony Music (SONY 92867)
This vanity "Oklahoma" features movie musical star Nelson Eddy and other '50s stars including Portia Nelson, Virginia Haskins, and Kaye Ballard. The score is not particularly theatrical sounding and the songs are adjusted for the talents singing them. Why this version of "Oklahoma" was converted to CD remains a question. There are four bonus tracks featuring John Raitt that are much better renditions of these popular tunes.
Grade: C
"RODGERS CONDUCTS RODGERS"
Studio Cast - 1954
Arkiv Music/Masterworks Broadway/Sony Music (SONY 92876)
These orchestral versions of Richard Rodgers compositions from both his musicals and other places are endearingly conducted by Rodgers with the excellent New York Philharmonic playing the selections lushly. Included is an orchestral piece weaving together four Richard Rodgers Waltzes, "The King and I's" "March of the Siamese Children," "The Carousel Waltz" that opens that show, "Slaughter On Tenth Avenue" from "On Your Toes" and his symphonic scenario, "Victory at Sea." In addition some of Rodgers radio promotion material to publicize this mid-'50s album are included. These were interviews by record producer Goddard Lieberson with Rodgers. There are many interesting comments but it seems doubtful that these interviews will be listened to as much or as often as the musical selections with their robust sound and perfect tempos.
Grade: B
"ON YOUR TOES"/"PAL JOEY"
Studio Cast - 1952/1957
Stage Door Records (STAGE 9002)
Stage Door Records, a British label, has released some more compilations of early show music recordings. In this release, we get two '50s studio cast recordings of two Rodgers and Hart shows, "On Your Toes" and "Pal Joey." "On Your Toes" is more authentic sounding with two major musical performers featured, Portia Nelson and Jack Cassidy. The "Pal Joey" features big band vocalists Martha Tilton and June Hutton and the songs sound less like they are from a Broadway musical and more from a swing era band. The accompanying booklet has interesting information about the shows. This recording is not a must for show music collectors but the familiar songs sound solid and professional.
Grade: C
"HANSEL AND GRETEL"/"THE YEOMAN OF THE GUARD"
Original Television Casts
Sepia Records (SEPIA 1125)
Back in the 1950s, television produced its own versions of several Broadway musicals and there were also musicals written exclusively for the television audience. Two of these for television-only shows featured a young Barbara Cook. The 1957 television version of Gilbert and Sullivan's "The Yeomen of the Guard" also starred popular Broadway performer Alfred Drake. The version presented on this two-show CD conversion doesn't include all of the score but just the most popular and recognizable tunes from the score. The other show, "Hansel and Gretel," featured Red Buttons in a comedic version of the popular children's story. It's really nice to have two of Cook's early singing appearances and these recordings remind us of how important Broadway musicals and Broadway's most popular performers were to the American entertainment industry. You wouldn't see a current Broadway star featured in a television musical today. Cook sounds fresh and wonderful. It's amazing that this stalwart singer is still so outstanding today in similar repertory. Buttons, too, makes it sound like the "Hansel and Gretel," if available, would make a wonderful DVD. In addition, there are several bonus tracks featuring Buttons, Cook, Stubby Kaye, and Rudy Vallee from this early television period.
Grade: B
"JULIE ANDREWS MUSICALITY"
Stage Door Records (STAGE 9012)
Julie Andrews had a socko Broadway voice and created some of our most famous leading roles in classic Broadway musicals. I feel lucky to have seen her in her last Broadway triumph, "Victor, Victoria," just before her ill-fated vocal operation that destroyed her singing voice. Now, on Stage Door Records comes a tribute to her "Musicality." Featured are a collection of selections from her first two Broadway hits, "The Boy Friend" and "My Fair Lady." Also are tunes from her two television musicals, "Cinderella" and "High Tor." Following these groupings come several songs from many other shows Andrews did but which aren't as famous. Many are from recordings she made of other Broadway musicals. I find it interesting that this tribute to Andrews includes nothing from her other two big Broadway successes, "Camelot" and "Victor, Victoria." It's great to sit back, though, and listen to Andrews in her prime float through song after song with her pristine voice. Too bad that the CD isn't more complete of her entire career but it is still a joy to treasure even though we've heard most of these song renditions many times before.
Grade: B
NEW DVD REVIEWS
"RENT- THE FINAL PERFORMANCE"
Closing Broadway Cast
Sony Pictures (29791)
What a treasure "Rent - The Final Performance" is. The show took Broadway by storm and this record of the fabulous final Broadway performance is a historic gem that will long be a treasured part of Broadway musical theater history. Being able to see the original production with a few of the original cast members rejoining the final Broadway company is a wonderfully faithful record of what will become a classic Broadway musical. The accompanying bonus features, "Rent: The Final Days on Broadway," "The Final Curtain Call," "The Wall," and "The Final Lottery" for tickets to that closing performance are all fabulous bits of theater history here preserved for the ages. If you love American musicals and/or "Rent" buy this DVD and skip the show's awful movie version. Seeing and having a record of what "Rent" looked and sounded like on Broadway is something very special.
Grade: A
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Phoenix, AZ (February 28, 2009) - The biggest show music news is the revival of Footlight Records. The original store was devoted to Broadway cast, movie soundtracks and personality recordings. It later branched out to DVDs related to these topics. The New York City store was an institution and was always a stop on any Broadway trip. When the landlord raised the rent, the store closed and became an Internet outlet for show music lovers. It moved to the Brooklyn house of the owner. After running as an Internet store for a while, it announced a closing about a year ago only to stay open when demand soared for the product they sold.
Over the course of 2008, Broadway cast CDs slowed as did Hollywood product. With so many ways now to purchase CDs and DVDs including downloads directly from the Internet offering competition, the store decided to close in early December. I miss the weekly chats with my two friends at Footlight, Ron and Arnold, as well as the weekly shipment plus the ease with which it was to get current show music product.
However, the good news is that Original Cast Records has now taken over and revived the Footlight Records brand. It will be interesting to see how the new management will handle Footlight Records.
Now for some reviews of some recent recordings:
"RAINBOW 'ROUND MY SHOULDER"
BARBARA COOK
DRG Records (94782)
There's nothing more glorious than hearing a new Barbara Cook album. Her latest, "Rainbow 'Round My Shoulder," is a stunning collection of pop and show tunes sung exquisitely and complimented by Cook's new music director and arranger, Lee Musiker. Listening to the CD, one would never guess Cook's age - 81. She sounds years younger and, like so many singers of her age, she has none of the raspy vibrato that gives away one's age. Musiker takes over where the brilliant late Wally Harper left off, arranging songs for Cook that compliment her current voice and making the songs sound fresh and alive. Nothing on Cook's current CD sounds dated or old fashioned. As usual, Cook tells each song's story with impeccable insight and meaning. Cook has perfected telling a complete and total story with each song she sings. It's impossible to pick highlights although her "Old Devil Moon" from "Finian's Rainbow" is a stunner as is the album's title tune. There isn't one of the 15 tracks that you won't love and adore Cook's impeccable way with the song and the lushness of her vocal sound. Barbara Cook is a true phenomenon and there will never be anyone quite like her.
Grade: A
"13"
Original Broadway Cast
Ghostlight Records (8-4413)
The Broadway musical "13" featured a young cast of teenagers. It had a brief, unsuccessful Broadway run, but it kept Broadway current with a show about the trials and tribulations of growing up as a teenager today. The music, by Jason Robert Brown, has a contemporary music sound and will be a challenge for lovers of conventional musical theater. The story follows several teenagers through standard growing up difficulties and challenges. The show has its own sound but it's not a standout as a great new musical. There have been many better plays about growing up.
Grade: C
"BROADWAY'S GREATEST GIFTS - CAROLS FOR A CURE"
10TH Anniversary Collector's Edition
Rock-It Science Records (RSRO2)
The annual "Carols for a Cure" is a two-CD set that has current shows represented with different and familiar holiday classics plus hits from past editions. The first CD contains the current Broadway casts' contributions and, like always, some are better and more enjoyable than others but all are interesting and make these tunes sound pleasant and different. The second disc contains past gems and they are the best of previous releases. The two CD set is pleasant music for Broadway lovers holiday celebrations.
Grade: A
"THE MARVELOUS WONDERETTES"
Off-Broadway Cast
PS Classics (PS-874)
"The Marvelous Wonderettes," an off-Broadway musical hit, is a girl version of "Forever Plaid" without the diversity of musical styles and sounds. The cast is fine and the collection of '50s pop hits is pleasant and easy to listen to but there's not the rich diversity of tunes like "Forever Plaid" so the cast doesn't get chances to showcase each member. I was debating whether or not to see this show during my annual January trek to New York but based on this cast CD, the show seems to be one that could be passed by. The show will no doubt become a staple of community and regional theaters but few casts will be able to rival the off-Broadway group. "The Marvelous Wonderettes" is a pleasant little show with nothing particularly striking to set it off.
Grade: C
"WHEN THE WIND BLOWS SOUTH"
PHILIP CHAFFIN
PS Classics (PS-870)
Philip Chaffin's easy and relaxed vocal style is well showcased in his latest CD, "When the Wind Blows South." The CD and its selections are influenced by the singer's Southern roots. Many songs are from musicals and his pleasant arrangements are perfect for his rich voice. Favorites include his sultry and sexy "Old Devil Moon" from "Finian's Rainbow," "Leaving on a Jet Plane," and the title tune. There's not a track, though, that isn't good, relaxing, and a pleasant listen. Chaffin has perfected a straightforward and distinctive vocal style that is showcased well in his new CD with an excellent band and some fine backup singers.
Grade: A
"BROADWAY UNPLUGGED 4"
Original Off-Broadway Cast
Original Cast Records (OC 6237)
Scott Siegel has supplemented his "Broadway by the Years" series with "Broadway Unplugged" where he features leading contemporary Broadway artists singing a wide range of past Broadway hits without any microphones. His latest, "Broadway Unplugged 4," was recorded November 19, 2007 and features 18 tracks from a wide ranging assortment of Broadway musicals, some big hits, others less famous, featuring such talent as Sarah Uriarte Berry, David Burnham, Marc Kudisch, Emily Skinner, Martin Vidnovic, and Barbara Walsh among the 17 artists on the recording. The songs come from such hits as "West Side Story," "Kiss Me, Kate," "Guys and Dolls," "South Pacific," and "Camelot," plus such unfamiliar shows as "Steel Pier," "The Gay Life," "Happy End," "Fine and Dandy," and "Spring Is Here." All the songs are beautifully sung and the collection will be of interest to any show music lover.
Grade: A
"HOWARD SINGS ASHMAN"
PS Classics (PS-869)
This two-disc set "Howard Sings Ashman" includes 17 tracks on the first CD from Howard Ashman and Alan Menken song collaborations. Of real interest, though, to show music lovers is the second CD, which includes 15 demos from the legendary 1986 Broadway musical, "Smile," sung by Ashman and Marvin Hamlisch, that show's composer. The "Smile" CD is a fascinating record of a fabled show that few saw or heard but is discussed among show music lovers all the time. The songs are solid and make one yearn for a production of the show just to see if it is as bad as was reported. Based on the songs, it doesn't sound like a complete failure.
Grade: B
"ZORRO"
Original London Cast
First Night Records (CASTCD103)
The London cast recording of "Zorro" by The Gipsy Kings captures the story's swashbuckling sound and feel. It's been a London hit and will no doubt get to Broadway in the future. Judging by the cast photos the show has a big "Les Miserables" look that seems appropriate for this story. The cast sounds forceful and good if not distinguished. The musical numbers will not set a new trend in musical theater song styles but seem adequate if not all that interesting.
Grade: C
"WHERE'S CHARLEY?"/"CHRYSANTHEMUM"
Original London Casts
Must Close Saturday Records (MCSR 3044)
Norman Wisdom's London appearance in "Where's Charley?" netted one of the few complete recordings of Frank Loesser's score. It's now available on CD and it is a delightful show with a succession of clever and winsome songs. Wisdom is perfect as the masquerading title character. With "Where's Charley?" comes a lesser known 1956 musical, "Chrysanthemum." The second show is set in 1913 London during the age of ragtime and the Bunny Hug. The show never clicked and was not successful either in its original 1956 staging or in its subsequent 1958 revival. The score is undistinguished.
Grade: A for "Where's Charley?"
C for "Chrysanthemum"
"THEN & NOW"
SHIRLEY JONES
Stage Door Records (STAGE 9008)
Shirley Jones' "Then & Now" is interesting collection of old Jones' classic musical theater gems from her films and studio recordings plus some current tracks that repeat some of her old chestnut songs, along with some new tracks from contemporary shows. Jones voice isn't in the pristine shape it was back when the original recordings were made and her vibrato and transposed songs make one yearn for the old Jones tracks and skip the new ones.
Grade: C
Here are reviews of the latest DVDs related to Broadway musicals.
"MAMMA MIA - THE MOVIE"
2-Disc Special Edition
Universal (61107917)
The movie translation of the ABBA musical "Mamma Mia" was perfect and now it is available in several DVD editions that range from just the film to a two-disc special edition with many interesting extras. The film, crafted by the creative team that created the successful stage musical, is exquisite. The Greek island setting is beautiful and the cast is superlative. Especially winsome is Meryl Streep as Donna, the unwed mother of Sophie who runs a small but dilapidated hotel. As she prepares for her daughter's wedding, the three possible fathers are invited and make a surprise appearance a day before the celebration. The wonderful ABBA tunes are perfectly integrated. Streep is relaxed and perfect both vocally and in spirit for Donna. The three dads are well played and even if some have criticized Pierce Brosnan's vocals, he is passable. The musical explodes all over the little island and the supporting cast couldn't be better. Especially good are Donna's two girl friends played by Julie Walters and Christine Baranski. The specials include deleted scenes, alternative takes, the making of the film, director's commentary, and a sing-along. This is a feel good musical brought brilliantly to life by the superlative cast, impeccable direction, superb integration of the songs, and the stunning scenery.
Grade: A
"MAMMA MIA"
The Movie Soundtrack plus a Bonus DVD "Behind the Music"
Decca Broadway (B0012311-00)
Decca Broadway is cashing in on the "Mamma Mia" movie DVD release. They released the excellent soundtrack recording, which has been repackaged with a DVD tracing "Behind the Music." The DVD provides insight into the original creation of the songs plus much footage from the stage productions. It's a nice collection for show lovers.
Grade: B
"LET THE SUN SHINE IN - HAIR"
Documentary
Alive Mind (ALV-DV-16)
With the recent Broadway revival of "Hair," the "Let the Sun Shine In - Hair" documentary is perfect. It traces the original "Hair," its impact, and why the show has received renewed interest today. There's footage from the movie version. For lovers of "Hair," this new DVD is an interesting record worth seeing.
Grade: B
"MITZI GAYNOR - RAZZLE DAZZLE! THE SPECIAL YEARS"
City Lights Home Entertainment (DV600159)
Mitzi Gaynor splashed to fame in the movie version of Rodgers and Hammerstein's "South Pacific" but she was a talented entertainer who never received her due. The new DVD "Mitzi Gaynor - Razzle Dazzle! The Special Years" contains some of the spectacular musical numbers from Gaynor's television specials that showcase Gaynor's dancing and singing talent. She's also gowned elegantly in Bob Mackie gowns and there are documentary excerpts with Mackie and Gaynor today that are very interesting insights into what went into Gaynor's television specials. It's too bad no Broadway producer ever saw fit to showcase the talented Gaynor in a big musical. It would have no doubt been quite the thing to see.
Grade: A
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Phoenix, AZ (November 16, 2008) - There are lots of new cast recordings, and lots of re-issues, so let's get right to them:
"GYPSY"
Original 2008 Broadway Cast
Time Life (M19659)
The 2008 cast recording of "Gypsy" is outstanding. It's the first cast version since the original Broadway cast recording with Ethel Merman to give the old standard version a run for its money. Starring Patti LuPone, this version is a stunning retelling of the show which features the manipulative conniving of Mamma Rose who tries first with Baby June and then with Baby Louise to create stars in her image. Of course, Louise becomes Gypsy Rose Lee and she soars to stardom as the now infamous stripper. LuPone creates a masterful portrayal and the first completely unique version since Merman. LuPone's Rose is lusty, bawdy, and she soars musically singing the collection of Jule Styne-Stephen Sondheim masterpieces. LuPone's stunning "Some People," "Small World," "Everything's Coming Up Roses," and a magnificently heartfelt "Rose's Turn" are outstanding as are this version's bonus tracks which feature complete renditions of seven songs cut from the 1959 original version. Not only is LuPone stunning but Boyd Gaines stirring Herbie and Laura Benanti's adult Louise stop the show as does the entire cast which perfected these roles in last summer's Encore revival that marked this production's premiere. This "Gypsy" is first one collectors can proudly display next to Ethel Merman's original cast recording of the legendary show.
Grade: A
"MARGUERITE"
Original London Cast
First Night Records (CAST CD102)
The world premiere recording of Michel Legrand, Alain Boublil, Claude Michel-Schonberg, Jonathan Kent, and Herbert Kretzmer's sprawling new musical "Marguerite" is interesting. It was not successful in London and has closed but the new cast recording features the fascinatingly original score sung by the superlative original cast. Ruthie Henshall is superb in the lead role as is Julian Ovenden as her lover Armand, a jazz musician. The story has the 23-year-old Armand falling in love with 40-year-old Marguerite, a top Nazi general's kept woman. The love affair sets in motion a series of dangerous liaisons that ultimately leads to the woman's death. The score is full of lush melodies and even if the story kept the show from being a big success, the cast album is intriguing.
Grade: B
"LEGALLY BLONDE" -
"So Much Better"
Ghostlight Records (No Number)
The new single "So Much Better" from "Legally Blonde" features the Elle Woods replacement, Bailey Hanks. Based on this one song CD, Hanks sounds great and seems more forceful and in charge than the original Elle, Laura Bell Bundy. The selection of Hanks was the result of a MTV national search. The show itself remains an odd piece destined to appeal only to teenagers and the show's score is nothing special.
Grade: C
"JERRY HERMAN'S BROADWAY"
(RCA 58476)
"THE GRAND TOUR"
(SONY 60001)
"DEAR WORLD"
(SONY 59995)
"HELLO, DOLLY!" (MARY MARTIN)
(RCA 48849)
Original Cast Recordings
Arkiv CDs
Arkiv Music has released nine re-mastered CDs from the Masterworks library of Jerry Herman shows. Most of these recordings have been available before on CD and these new versions aren't particularly impressive. The accompanying booklets about the shows are mediocre at best and in most cases include condensed versions of previously available liner notes. The booklets have few, and in many cases, no pictures from the original casts. Of the nine, I received four review copies and await my order of the other five. The CDs are only available from the Arkiv web site and the CDs can be downloaded directly from the web. Of the four I received, only one, the Mary Martin version of "Hello, Dolly!" is new to CD. The original London cast production was available on LP and Martin's production also toured Vietnam during the Vietnam War. Martin is a bit too cutesy as Dolly and very different than Carol Channing's original performance and also diametrically diverse from the other recorded Dollys, Pearl Bailey and Ethel Merman. The Martin "Hello, Dolly!" is probably the weakest one recorded. The series also includes "The Grand Tour," "Jerry Herman's Broadway," an orchestral treatment of Herman's best song hits, and "Dear World" that were part of my review package. In addition, "Milk and Honey" (recently made available again on CD by DRG Records), Channing and Bailey's "Hello, Dollys," "Mame" and "La Cage aux Folles" are also on hand. The Bailey "Dolly" includes excerpts from all the recorded "Dolly" recordings, including those rare Ethel Merman tracks of the songs reinstated when Merman made her Broadway farewell appearance in the show. It would have been nice if there were more previously unreleased tracks on these CDs and if the accompanying production booklets had been better.
Grade: C
"MILK AND HONEY"
Original Broadway Cast
DRG Theater (19114)
Jerry Herman's first Broadway show was the popular "Milk and Honey," a 1961 musical rarely seen today on stage. The big, explosive score was a good indication of the grandly accessible music that has since come from Herman in his many Broadway shows. "Milk and Honey" was a tribute to the then newly founded Israel. It captures the sound of the land and the customs of the people. It has a rather far-flung plot that highlights a widow's tour through the nation and the kinds of people they met. It had a commendable cast that included two opera stars, Robert Weede and Mimi Benzell, along with the ever popular Molly Picon who resurrected many of her old and standard routines for the show. The melodies are wonderful and the songs are typical Herman. The show boasted a large cast and was an expensive production, so even though it ran a long while, it still lost money. The show was converted to CD years ago and hasn't been available for a longtime so it's nice to have this great score available again.
Grade: B
"PASSING STRANGE"
Original Broadway Cast
Ghostlight Records (8-4429)
"Passing Strange" introduced a whole new sound to Broadway. It's the rap, heavy rock, throbbingly-loud sound that the young generation knows and loves but that the show music crowd doesn't always get. The original Broadway cast recording is a live recording taped over several performances. The Stew musical is loud and raucous but at lower volume levels reveals several thoughtful songs with poignant lyrics and nice melodies. The show captured a certain audience but it has since closed because enough of its audience never showed up to support the show. The cast gets right into the show and two songs stand out to me. "Come Down Now" is probably the show's best number and the song that will probably have the greatest appeal to traditional show music lovers. The other tender and amazingly touching song, "Passing Phase," is also a winner. The entire score isn't as difficult to listen to as I had thought it would be based on the one number shown on the annual Tony Awards show. It's too bad the "Passing Strange" audience wasn't given more time to find this show. The audience it attracts holds the future of the musical theater as we know it and if that audience doesn't become familiar with Broadway musicals, I wonder what will happen to the form as we know and love it today.
Grade: B
"MAMMA MIA!"
Original Soundtrack Cast
Decca Records (80011439-02)
When "Mamma Mia!" first hit the stage, it was an excitingly vibrant show with a simple plot hung around many popular ABBA tunes. The stage version has played lengthy runs in London, New York and Las Vegas while the American touring production continues to do boffo business in cities around the nation. Now, the original stage producer, director, and writer adapted their popular show for film. The movie soundtrack, though, doesn't have the same throbbing intensity and I wasn't as involved as I was the first time I heard the stage version, also prior to actually seeing the show. There are many famous Hollywood stars in this film version and they sing their own vocals but none of the performances tantalize as much as those in the stage version. Many of the songs that started as solos in the stage version are assigned to an impressive chorus but this takes away most of the tunes personal attraction. Nonetheless, the cast is perfect - headed by Meryl Streep's explosively dynamic Donna. Her vocals are amazing and her antics are perfect for the role. It's been a longtime since I've seen a film musical I liked better than the stage version but "Mamma Mia!" is it. The soundtrack doesn't capture the exciting vocals of the film and many of the songs seem to be other than direct transfers from the soundtrack. Wait until the movie comes out on DVD to have the show in this most enjoyable film.
Grade: C
"BOULEVARD!"
Original Concept Cast
Stage Door Records (STAGE 9005)
Andrew Lloyd Webber wasn't the first person who thought the popular 1950 film "Sunset Boulevard" would make an excellent musical. The original star, Gloria Swanson, who had her career rejuvenated with the film, also thought it would make the perfect musical and she saw herself as the star and thought it would be the perfect vehicle to bring her to Broadway. She was so committed to the show that the creators, Dickson Hughes and Richard Stapley, wrote the show and Swanson did the role in a concept recording that has just been released after being safely tucked away on tape for all these many years. The results are decidedly second rate. Not only is Swanson is a weak singer, the songs created lacked the necessary punch and intense pitch necessary to convey the story of the has-been Hollywood star who hopes to make her comeback. Lloyd Webber wrote big song hits that captured the old star's stature and provided the musical's star with several stellar moments that appropriately stopped the show. Swanson talk/sings her way through a collection of mindless and not very imposing songs and the result on CD is to ask why? The film was far more dramatic and Lloyd Webber's musical version worked so well on stage because it made the has-been star an interesting and dynamic personality. The stage concept that Swanson championed was a feeble, pale affair and it is easy to see why it never made it. The recording is interesting only from the failed bit of musical theater history it chronicles.
Grade: D
"ANNIE"
30th Anniversary Production Cast
Time Life (M19538)
Why was another "Annie" recording needed when the original with the truly definitive cast has already preserved the original show's sound so beautifully? The new Time Life release, celebrating the popular show's 30th anniversary, is mediocre and ordinary. This two-disc set includes a recent cast recording of the show that is not bad but certainly doesn't endanger the original as being better. The second disc includes the stories and songs from "Annie 2," a sequel that never took off. This disc also includes four bonus tracks from other versions and an introduction by the show's original star, Andrea McArdle. There's nothing special here and if one "Annie" is all your show music collection can include, the original version is vastly superior.
Grade: C
"ME AND JULIET"
Original Broadway Cast
DRG Theater (19115)
Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein wrote some the most trend-setting and now classic musicals ever penned. But the team's big hits were all for shows adapted from other stories. For their original musicals, they failed. Their least successful show, "Me and Juliet," has long been out-of-print as both a recording and as a CD conversion, but is now again available. The 1953 musical tried to capture the backstage antics of creating and presenting a Broadway musical. The score contains its share of hit tunes but the idea of moving back and forth between the show and the backstage dramas wasn't put together seamlessly and never really worked. The cast was top rate representing the best of the musical theater at that time but no cast member was a true star so they were unable to sell the show. The large production proved very expensive and show ran only ten months, a success for lesser talents but a fiasco for Broadway's popular musical theater writers. It is interesting to have this pleasant score and the original cast's fine performances again available even if the show is now forgotten and is almost never done.
Grade: C
"ARABIAN NIGHTS"
Original Jones Beach Theatre Cast
Sepia Records (SEPIA 1116)
Jones Beach was a popular summer theater in the '50s and the large outdoor facility created a few original musicals that it introduced in seasons full of classic Broadway musical classics. In 1954, the theater and its producer Guy Lombardo created "Arabian Nights." The show has a pleasant enough score but there are no standout numbers and the score doesn't really convey the show's setting or the grandeur of the time and locale. The cast is largely operatic with musical comedy favorites as well. Lauritz Melchior and his extravagant voice headlines along with the excellent Helena Scott, Ralph Herbert, Hope Holiday, and William Chapman. The songs and lyrics were penned by Carmen Lombardo and John Jacob Loeb, with the stodgy book crafted by George Marion, Jr. The show was created to be elaborate and Jones Beach was known for its elaborate water effects since the stage was separated from the audience by a large expanse of water. The scenes shown in the accompanying booklet show just how massive these effects were. This score isn't a winner and is interesting primarily for the bit of musical theater history it represents.
Grade: C
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Phoenix, AZ (June 30, 2008) - There are lots of new cast recordings, and they are reviewed below.
"A CATERED AFFAIR"
Original Broadway Cast
PS Classics (PS-864)
"A Catered Affair" didn't get great reviews but the cast album reveals a charming score well performed by the original cast that includes Faith Prince in her first Broadway role in several seasons, Tom Wopat, and Harvey Fierstein, who also authored the book. The score, his first for Broadway, is by John Bucchino and includes several pleasing tunes suggesting that his Broadway musical theater career will be rich and long. The show, set in 1953, poses the standard question confronted by all mothers and daughters, whose wedding is it? Prince, playing a Bronx mother, struggles to give her only daughter the wedding she never had. Leslie Kritzer makes an impressive showing as the daughter, while Matt Cavenaugh plays the soon-to-be-son-in-law well. The performances are genuine, the music is solid and interesting, and so "A Catered Affair" sounds impressive on its cast recording.
Grade: B
"SOUTH PACIFIC"
New Broadway Cast - 2008
Masterworks Broadway (88697-30457-2)
The first Broadway revival of Rodgers and Hammerstein's 1949 classic "South Pacific" received glowing notices and the new cast album is impressive. It made this listener want to get on the next plane for New York to see the show live. The CD includes more of the score than has ever been previously recorded and the cast is superlative. Kelli O'Hara sounds relaxed, natural, and has the appropriate bouncy and bubbly effervescence that makes her Nellie commanding and perfect. Her singing is effortless and stunning and these song hits have never, even in Mary Martin's original cast recording, sounded so lovely. Opposite her as Emile is Paulo Szot and his strong voice sounds less like Enzio Pinza's operatic work on the original recording. Szot is the perfect island plantation owner. The rest of the large and impressive cast glistens. The young love affair between Joseph Cable and Liat are lovely with Matthew Morrison and Li Jun Li's fine performances. Danny Burstein's Luther Billis is sharply comedic and the rich story, set in World War II on two Pacific islands, has never been better sung. An impressive, must -have cast album.
Grade: A
"THE BROADWAY MUSICALS OF 1962"
Original Off-Broadway Cast
Original Cast Records (OC 6228)
The Town Hall Broadway By The Year series continues with an excellent representation of 1962. The 23 tracks represent 10 major shows from that year including "All American," "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum," "Mr. President," "Little Me," "I Can Get It For You Wholesale," "Stop The World - I Want To Get Off," "Bravo Giovanni," "A Family Affair," "Nowhere To Go But Up" and "No Strings." Like most of these tributes, it includes several popular and well-known shows, but also mixes in some songs from less successful and unrecorded shows. The cast includes the best of current musical theater stars and the tracks are well sung and represent the shows well. Picking favorite tracks is silly because all the numbers represent the sound of Broadway during 1962. This recording nicely captures the era and belongs in any musical theater collector's library.
Grade: B
"EVENING PRIMROSE"
Original Television Soundtrack Cast
Kritzerland (KR 20011-6)
This CD release of the original television soundtrack of Stephen Sondheim's "Evening Primrose" is a treasure. The release is limited to just 3,000 copies so if you haven't purchased it yet, buy it quickly. The songs are a prelude to later Sondheim shows and the cast that top-lined Anthony Perkins and Charmian Carr is perfect for the songs. The CD is short but captures the songs Sondheim penned and that have become so well known by earlier tracks from this television musical. The recording makes one hope that the television show could be made available as a DVD so we could all enjoy it again.
Grade: A
"ANYTHING GOES"
Selections From Various Casts
Stage Door Records (STAGE 9006)
The Stage Door "Anything Goes" is an interesting compilation of several old recordings of the famous Cole Porter show that was sparked originally by the commanding performance of Ethel Merman in the lead role. Some of the stellar performances include Merman, who recorded several songs from the show but there is no original cast recording, as well as Judy Garland, Bing Crosby, Mitzi Gaynor, Mary Martin, and Cole Porter himself. All these stars bring something unique to their interpretations of these fun and recognizable songs. The performances to treasure are Merman and Martin and this recording will play a prominent place in most cast album collectors.
Grade: A
"HAPPY HUNTING"
Original Broadway Cast
DRG Theater (19108)
It's sure nice to have "Happy Hunting" back on CD. This 1956 show starred Ethel Merman and while it wasn't a huge hit, Merman's performance made the show worthwhile and the cast album reveals Merman at her best. The show also featured the only Broadway musical performance of Fernando Lamas. The feud between Merman and Lamas is well documented in several Merman biographies but the strong performances of both performers are commanding on the cast album. The show marked Merman's return to Broadway after a partial Denver retirement during her unsuccessful marriage to Robert Six, Continental Airlines president. The musical, with book by Howard Lindsay and Russel Crouse with music by Matt Dubey and Harold Karr, was based on the wedding of Philadelphia socialite and Hollywood star Grace Kelly to Monaco's Prince Rainer. It includes the classic hit "Mutual Admiration Society," which Merman twists into her own anthem. The pleasant score isn't memorable but the performances sell the songs.
Grade: B
"THE BEST OF BROADWAY VOL.1 - "SOUTH PACIFIC" & "KISS ME, KATE"
Studio Casts
DRG Theater (19113)
This double recording release by DRG Theater includes two popular studio cast recordings of two big 1940s shows, "South Pacific" and "Kiss Me, Kate." The performances by popular singers of the day are not traditional and the results don't sound like these songs do on the original cast recordings but it reveals the popularity of Broadway music during this period. There's nothing distinctive about this recording and this is not a big item for show music collectors.
Grade: C
"ADDING MACHINE"
Original Off-Broadway Cast
PS Classics (PS-865)
Like the Elmer Rice play, this new off-Broadway hit is based on, the music that accompanies this adaptation is very odd sounding and musically adventurous. Featuring a score by Joshua Schmidt and book by Jason Loewith and Schmidt, the musical is a dark comic adaptation of Rice's incendiary 1923 play. It relates the story of Mr. Zero, who after 25 years of company service is replaced by a mechanical adding machine. The music captures the tone and style of the play and the performances are strong. While most unusual, this new sounding show represents some new approaches to musicals.
Grade: B
"SHOW BOAT"
Studio Cast - 1932
Studio Cast - 1936
Broadway Cast Revival - 1946
Naxos Musicals (8.120789)
There's a new "Show Boat" recording that includes excerpts from two studio cast albums and the 1946 Broadway revival that starred "Carousel's" Jan Clayton. The sound on the two studio recordings is antiquated and very old fashioned. The 1932 cast includes Helen Morgan recreating her original Julie role but the sound of her voice today is not pleasant and isn't the sound contemporary audiences have come to expect in this pivotal role. Paul Robeson is the Joe on both studio recordings and his commanding voice is the best of those selections. Most of the other 1932 selections sound ancient and the only reason for the inclusion of one selection from the 1936 studio cast album was that it was a song, "Ah Still Suits Me," added to that year's Hollywood film version. The 1946 revival sounds more contemporary although the casting is not strong. Clayton is a fine but unexceptional Magnolia. This new CD captures some early recreations of the great "Show Boat" but the sound is old fashioned and the CD will have appeal only for those most dedicated collectors.
Grade: C
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Phoenix, AZ (March 3, 2008) - Having recently returned from Broadway, it's well known that this is the season of plays not musicals. Three of this update's reviews are of new Broadway musicals and one is an off-Broadway success. There are also many releases of old Broadway shows that have never been on CD before or have been unavailable for a long time. A new British label, Stage Door Records, promises reissues of old Broadway tuners in their original cast recordings or in solid studio versions. Many of these are first time CD releases. There were also some re-releases of old movie versions of Broadway musicals, the new "Sweeney Todd" soundtrack as well a London version of a popular Broadway musical, "Parade," and a new musical bound for Broadway, "Happy Days," as well as Betty Buckley's new solo album.
Now to this update's show music recordings reviews.
"THE LITTLE MERMAID"
Original Broadway Cast
Walt Disney Records (D000103302)
"The Little Mermaid," Disney's newest Broadway show, doesn't sound bad on the recording. The songs are melodic and pleasant but none of the score is very interesting and none of it pushes the envelope to a new musical theater sound. The entire score is predictable and is standard musical theater fare that stopped being featured on Broadway years ago. The original songs from the film are obviously the best and the strongest. The myriad of new tunes, added to fill out the stage version so it can pass as a full Broadway show, are listless and ordinary. They tend to be pale copies of the better original songs from the film. When they run concurrent with the superior original songs, they sound even more bland and uninteresting. There aren't any strong performances on this cast album except Sherie Rene Scott's gutsy Ursula. The leads, Sierra Boggess as Ariel and Sean Palmer as her intended, Prince Eric, are, like the whole show, mediocre. Their big voices boom through the tedious songs but they bring nothing special to their vocals. The score is lengthy at over 75 minutes and it all sounds similar and much like the composers' earlier success, "Beauty and the Beast." The pictures of the production included in the generous accompanying booklet make the whole show look cheap. It's easy to see why this latest Disney creation is struggling to find an audience on Broadway. Even the children it is intended for are probably bored. If you are a serious musical theater collector, "The Little Mermaid" doesn't belong in your collection.
Grade: C-
"YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN"
Original Broadway Cast
Decca Broadway (B0010374-02)
Yes, Mel Brooks newest Broadway creation "Young Frankenstein" is a real let down as it fiddles with mediocrity and never soars like Brooks' stage version of "The Producers" did. A lot seems to be attributable to mediocre casting but Brooks' own tunes this time around sound blah and mediocre. Susan Stroman's uninteresting and routine staging also leaves much to a remembrance of the far superior film and never finds anything unique or funnier than Brooks did years ago when this show was a successful comedy film. The casting is pretty ordinary starting at Roger Bart's bland take on the show's lead, Frederick Frankenstein. Megan Mullally's comic turn as his girlfriend Elizabeth is funny but the stars of the cast album are Shuler Hensley's Monster, Sutton Foster's understated Inga and Andrea Martin's slyly hysterical Frau Blucher. There's not a distinguished song hit here and disappointing seems best to describe this overrated tuner.
Grade: D
"SWEENEY TODD"
Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
Nonesuch (368572-2)
Johnny Depp is indeed a sensation as Sweeney Todd in the very dark movie version of Stephen Sondheim's darkest of dark musicals. You wouldn't recognize the show from the soundtrack which sounds even bleaker and more somber than did the stage version. Helena Bonham Carter's foreboding take on Mrs. Lovett is sure different than Angela Lansbury's Music Hall vaudevillian approach but the darkness works and, like Depp, she sounds amazingly good in Sondheim's anything but easy score. She's a real delight dreaming "By the Sea" and she makes "The Worst Pies in London" a hoot even though her vocals are dour throughout. The dark tone of the film translates effectively into the soundtrack , which makes Sondheim's wonderful score anything but fun. It's a whole new sound to the familiar stage show but the uniqueness of the interpretation works beautifully. Having seen the film, I can say that I never thought a different approach would work as effectively as the brilliant original Broadway concept, but this is a genius approach to the piece.
Grade: A
"FORBIDDEN BROADWAY - RUDE AWAKENING"
Original Off-Broadway Cast
DRG Records (12632)
"Forbidden Broadway - Rude Awakening" is hysterically funny as it points a sharp, dagger finger at all the recent and current Broadway tuners. It finds something irreverent and amusing about them. The off-Broadway hit has played 25 years and each new edition really slaps the new shows with Gerard Alessandrini's sharp wit. That this talented humorist can use the actual show tunes and find the humor and insults that cut through to each new show's worth is amazing. This latest version returns the show to the funny vehicle it always was but hasn't been in several recent editions. The latest version slams "Mary Poppins," "Curtains," "Company," "Grey Gardens," "Jersey Boys," "The Little Mermaid," "Spamalot," "Les Miserables," "A Chorus Line," "Wicked" and "Spring Awakening," along with assaults on specific well known personalities who appear on Broadway. There's not a misstep anywhere in this new edition and be prepared to die laughing at the pointed jabs and hysterical humor.
Grade: A
"PARADE"
Original London Cast
First Night Records (CASTCD 99)
"Parade" is a touching and very emotional musical about the unfairness of the Leo Frank murder trial in Georgia in the early 1900s. The show brought me to tears when I saw it at Lincoln Center in the wonderfully rich original Broadway production. The show hasn't been done much because it is so demanding and the cast has to be flawless. Finally, the show premiered in London at the Donmar Warehouse in a rethought version that sharpens the original. The London recording is powerful and exemplary and the CD draws you into the piece. Bertie Carvel is a fine Leo and Lara Pulver matches him as Lucille. Perhaps the pair isn't as vocally pristine as the original Broadway cast but they bring the piece to vibrant life. The Jason Robert Brown score still haunts in its depth and beauty and the Alfred Uhry book comes across even in the cast recording. The London recording includes a PAL-formatted DVD and while this format won't play on American DVD players, I'm told that it will play on American computers. I haven't had time yet to try this but I'm sure the DVD will reveal even more about the fine London version.
Grade: A
"XANADU"
Original Broadway Cast
PS Classics (PS-858)
The less said about the original Broadway cast recording of "Xanadu" the better. The pop movie hit and its music have been adapted and the orchestrations updated for the Broadway version. The sound is like ancient history musically. The cast album was enough of a downer to keep me away from the Broadway version on a recent New York trip. The movie was the thing at the right point in history. Now, the new show looks back on mediocrity.
Grade: F
"NEW FACES OF '56"/"MRS. PATTERSON"
Original Broadway Casts
Stage Door Records (STAGE 9003)(No Number)
Stage Door Records is a new English label dedicated to release of pristine CD versions of past Broadway scores and personality recordings from leading musical theater artists. The first three releases include a joint CD of "New Faces of '56" and "Mrs. Patterson." The "New Faces" revue is a format long ago abandoned on Broadway but these Leonard Sillman shows introduced lots of new musical theater artists in revues with decent enough musical contributions. The 1956 version featured T. C. Jones, the era's leading female impersonator, playing his/her famous Tallulah Bankhead. Jones narrates the revue that features such future Broadway stars as Jane Connell, John Reardon, Maggie Smith, Virginia Martin and Inga Swenson. The score is catchy and clever and it's nice to have this show and the stars it introduced available. "Mrs. Patterson" was an Eartha Kitt vehicle and she's dynamite in the play with music. The show hit Broadway at the height of Kitt's career and she sounds delicious throughout in the selections included on this CD. A successful entry for a new label devoted to show music.
Grade: B
"ON YOUR TOES"/"PAL JOEY"
Studio Casts
Stage Door Records (STAGE 9002)
Two great studio cast recordings of the Rodgers and Hart hits "On Your Toes" and "Pal Joey" mark the content of the second Stage Door release. Both shows have typically beautiful scores and the singing by Portia Nelson and Jack Cassidy heading the "On Your Toes" cast is fine as is the somewhat less interesting vocals of Martha Tilton and June Hutton on the "Pal Joey" tracks. There are far better "Pal Joeys" available. Both studio recordings are representative of the importance of show music during the 1950s and it's a solid CD to own.
Grade: B
"WISH YOU WERE HERE"
Original Broadway Cast
Stage Door Records (STAGE 9001)
The most interesting of the three initial Stage Door Records releases is the 1952 "Wish You Were Here." The Harold Rome songs are wonderful and the cast is sharp and sounds great in this show set in a giant, on-stage swimming pool. This release has some interesting bonus tracks including the composer singing one of his tunes from the show as well as some pop treatments of show song hits. The feeble booklet doesn't tell a lot about the show and this is regrettable but it is a wonderful show and is one rarely heard today. It would be nice if these Stage Door releases had more pictures of the original productions and more text about the show, its creation, and where it places in the world of American musical theater. It's nice to have it available again, though.
Grade: A
"THE KING AND I"
Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
Delta Leisure Group Pic (CD6695)
"OKLAHOMA"
Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
Delta Leisure Group Pic (CD6696)
"THE WIZARD OF OZ"
Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
Delta Leisure Group Pic (CD6694)
Another new English label has re-released three movie version soundtracks from classic shows that started or have played on Broadway. Of the trio, the best is, of course, "The King and I," one of Rodgers and Hammerstein's greatest works. The rich movie version is perhaps the finest film version of a Broadway musical ever created and the casting of the original King in Yul Brynner is exemplary. Deborah Kerr made a definitive Anna and even though Marni Nixon sang for Kerr, the vocals were exquisitely matched to Kerr's impeccable performance. These three releases that also include Rodgers and Hammerstein's "Oklahoma" and "The Wizard of Oz" include many bonus tracks. In the case of "The King and I" bonus tracks come from the original Broadway cast recording and several pop versions of show hits. Comparing the mediocre singing of Gertrude Lawrence in the original "The King and I" with Nixon's sharp vocals, is an obvious plus. Several Judy Garland hits add as some of the bonus tracks on "The Wizard of Oz" release.
Grades: A -"The King and I", B -"Oklahoma", A -"The Wizard of Oz"
"ALL AMERICAN"
Live Backers Audition
Harbinger Records (HCD-2401)
The live backer's auditions for the ill-fated Broadway musical "All American" are interesting for true show lovers. There is little else on this CD for the more casual listener of show music as the musical's cast album was turned into a CD and is still available. The release does contain some numbers that were cut from the show before it opened and a song added after the opening night.
Grade: C
"HAPPY DAYS"
Paper Mill Playhouse Cast
PS Classics (PS-860)
The peppy stage musical version of the popular television hit "Happy Days" sounds refreshing and spunky in the Paper Mill Playhouse production. Rumors of a Broadway production are regularly heard throughout the industry and judging by the upbeat cast album, the show would probably find a welcoming audience. The songs include the popular television theme song and Paul Williams tunes that sound like and well represent the times the show portrays.
Grade: C
BETTY BUCKLEY "QUINTESSENCE"
Masterworks Broadway/Playbill Records (88697-22058-2)
Betty Buckley's new solo album is a mellow, jazzy affair that includes several Broadway tunes that have been re-orchestrated into the upbeat but very relaxed jazz style Buckley uses for this release. This new CD is perhaps the most enjoyable from Buckley in many years. The non-Broadway tunes carry the same mellow mood and feel as the Broadway standards and the entire CD is a joy to listen to as it serves as excellent background music. Buckley may be doing what Barbara Cook has done so successfully and she might be bridging her Broadway career into a successful cabaret act.
Grade: B+
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Phoenix, AZ (December 23, 2007) - The original cast recording to the new Mel Brooks musical "Young Frankenstein" gets released on the Decca Broadway label on Wednesday. I am anxious to hear the score that the New York critics lambasted as being ordinary and routine. The cast also received mixed notices, especially the lead, Roger Bart. The dearth of new Broadway shows is netting a limited number of releases and more and more new cast albums are releases of previously unavailable shows in the CD format. Now to this update of new show music recordings:
"LOVEMUSIK"
Original Broadway Cast
Ghostlight Records (8-4425)
"LoveMusik" was one of the most creative new Broadway musicals last season and now we can hear the show that closed relatively quickly. It sounds a lot like "Cabaret" and contains songs penned by Kurt Weill. The story surrounding the music was suggested by the letters between Weill and Lotte Lenya, the great interpreter of Weill's work. The book was penned by Alfred Uhry. It's a dark show but the score is fascinating and contains many of Weill's standards that all musical comedy lovers know and appreciate. The excellent Broadway cast features the wonderful Donna Murphy and the equally talented Michael Cerveris, who made such a memorable splash in the "Sweeney Todd" revival. Because "LoveMusik" is creative and unusual, I think it is one of the most exciting new Broadway shows in several seasons.
Grade: A
"NEW GIRL IN TOWN"
Original Broadway Cast
Flare Records (SPEC1032)
You can't go wrong with any Gwen Verdon musical and "New Girl in Town" has been re-released by Flare Records. The Bob Merrill score isn't memorable but has a few catchy tunes and when such musical theater veterans as Verdon, Thelma Ritter, George Wallace, and Cameron Prud'Homme sing with great flair and tremendous style. The musical's plot is based on Eugene O'Neill's heavy "Anna Christie" and it is a bit foreboding and dark but Verdon makes the central role her own and imprints it with her usual unique style. Bob Fosse created the dances and musical numbers so the show was probably great to watch. It's nice to have this Verdon stunner available again in a pristine recording with the great story of the show and wonderful pictures of the original production.
Grade: B
"BUSKER ALLEY"
York Theatre Company Cast
Jay Records (CDJAY 1400)
"Busker Alley" was the ill-fated musical that starred Tommy Tune and took a lengthy route to a Broadway opening that never happened. Tune broke his ankle and the New York opening was scrapped and the show was largely forgotten until a one-night benefit for the York Theatre Company gave the show a New York airing with a stellar cast. The benefit performance was captured by Jay Records and it now has been released and we can hear it for the first time. The story is a tribute to the street entertainers who entertained London theatergoers in the streets before audiences headed to theaters for the night's show. The Sherman brothers, Richard and Robert, have written a breezy, lightweight but thoroughly charming score that is a joy to hear. The cast, under Tony Walton's direction, includes the fabulous Jim Dale in the lead role and the impeccable Glenn Close as the narrator of sorts, Dame Libby, and has such musical theater stalwarts as George S. Irving and Anne Rogers who has been reviving her career of late. This recording makes me hope that a revival of this show is soon scheduled so that it can reach Broadway and we can all have a chance to see this refreshing and entertaining show.
Grade: A
"GREASE"
New Broadway 2007 Cast
Masterworks Broadway (88697-16398-2)
The new Broadway cast of "Grease" makes me wonder how successful the competition for the leads really was. The show has received weak reviews and the cast album is disappointing because it is so ordinary and introduces nothing new into this overly familiar and way too mediocre musical. Even the pictures, generously included in the well-illustrated booklet, make the production look exceedingly mediocre. The CD is disappointing because none of the cast sounds particularly memorable and, in some cases, sounds really blah. If you have another "Grease" recording, that's fine and there's no need to get this new version. It's really ordinary.
Grade: D
"PORGY AND BESS"
Studio Cast
Decca (475 8663)
George Gershwin's "Porgy and Bess" is a masterpiece and the Studio Cast recording that features such outstanding singers as Willard White, Leona Mitchell, and Barbara Hendricks among others, bring this complete version to glorious fruition. The Cleveland Orchestra and Chorus, under Lorin Maazel's expert conducting, give the score a vibrant life that makes this one of the best "Porgy and Bess" recordings available. It's nice that this fine 1976 version has been re-released by Decca along with an informative and well-researched booklet about the piece.
Grade: A
"BETTY BUCKLEY 1967"
Playbill Records/Masterworks Broadway (88697 17320 2)
When Betty Buckley was 17, she recorded her first album that had never been released. It's now available and it presents a Buckley with a lovely, very high placed voice that lacks the distinctive huskiness that we are now more familiar with in Buckley's recent recordings and live appearances. There's a good cross section of show tunes in the scant 11 tracks but most of the arrangements are distinctly jazzy and many of the show tunes don't sound like the songs from the shows they represent. This new album is interesting because it gives us a glimpse of a great musical theater performer at the beginning of her career but, as an album, you will play over and over, it won't be this one.
Grade: B
JULIE ANDREWS
"ONCE UPON A TIME"
Sepia Records (1103)
The new Julie Andrews compilation CD, "Once Upon A Time," is a nice look back at Andrews's career and gives you a good feeling of what Andrews's voice sounded like at the beginning of her memorable career. Some of the tracks are early recordings when Andrews was a child performer. Others re-create her early hits from "The Boy Friend" and "My Fair Lady" but others are nursery rhymes tunes sung with Martyn Green. Quite frankly, I would rather hear the hits from her early shows on the cast albums rather than in these versions but the compilation is a nice history of her early career.
Grade: C
"BROADWAY'S GREATEST GIFTS: CAROLS FOR A CURE, VOLUME 9"
Rock-It Science Records (No Number)
The annual "Carols for a Cure" is a lovely fund-raiser for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, the organization that makes generous contributions to performers afflicted with AIDS. This year, like in years past, the two-disc CD features current Broadway casts in interesting renditions of popular and unusual Christmas songs. The first disc has some standard tunes but has more interesting and unique Christmas carols. The second disc is full of traditional carols but most have very interesting arrangements. The most interesting here are the "Wicked" cast's take on various ways of singing "Jingle Bells" and a funny rendition of "The 12 Days of Christ-Miz" done by the current "Les Miserables" cast. This year's "Carols for a Cure" certainly puts you in a joyous holiday mood as you contribute to AIDS and appreciate the talents of current Broadway musical casts.
Grade: A
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Phoenix, AZ (October 28, 2007) - Let's get right to new show music recordings:
"WEST SIDE STORY"
Studio Cast
Decca Broadway (1733909)
Decca Broadway has made release of this new "West Side Story" recording quite important and since it is this trend-setting show's 50th anniversary, the recording is welcome. The crisp and melodious Leonard Bernstein score sounds great in the hands of a cast of unknowns including Hayley Westenra, Vittorio Grigolo, and Connie Fisher. The renditions are faithful to the Broadway original and there's nothing new explored here. The voices are strong and the memorable score is sung with great emotion and sweeping range and depth. The big songs are here as are some of the show's famous dance breaks. There are more complete recordings of this famous score with its heavy emphasis on dance. If you have other recordings of this show, this is a strong one but certainly not a unique interpretation. If you're a "West Side Story" novice, I'd pick one of the earlier and more complete versions over this new one.
Grade: B-
"A PLACE FOR US - A TRIBUTE TO 50 YEARS OF 'WEST SIDE STORY'"
Various Artists
Masterworks Broadway (88697-12161-2)
Another CD takes advantage of "West Side Story's" 50th anniversary. This recording is a compilation featuring a variety of artists who have sung songs from the score, including Julie Andrews, Brain Stokes Mitchell, Barbra Streisand, Johnny Mathis, Hugh Panaro, Andy Williams and Kristin Chenoweth. The list of artists is impressive and the selections all have a bit of uniqueness to their interpretations including altered pacing, different music emphasis, and special orchestrations. The collection of artists makes this recording interesting but these aren't always the best of the song arrangements if you like the songs to sound as they did on Broadway.
Grade: C
"FANNY"
Original Broadway Cast
Flare Records (ROYCD 258)
The original "Fanny" had a remarkable cast and the original Broadway cast recording is again available thanks to Flare Records, which has remastered this great sounding show. This 1954 show featured the great Ezio Pinza, Walter Slezak, William Tabbert and a very young Florence Henderson. The plot was a popular one during this time. It takes place between the two World Wars in Marseilles and is set among the city's ordinary working folk along the waterfront. Although Rodgers and Hammerstein had originally been approached about crafting the score, Rodgers took a strong dislike to producer David Merrick and when the flamboyant Broadway impresario wouldn't sell the work, Harold Rome was commissioned to write the rich score and Joshua Logan staged the show that had many of his "South Pacific" alumni in this show. The score is filled with complex and beautiful songs all sung gloriously by the excellent cast. Like so many musicals of this era, "Fanny" is rarely staged today and it would be interesting to see this show and realize what may be wrong with it for contemporary audiences.
Grade: B
"ME AND JULIET"
Original Broadway Cast
Flare Records (ROYCD 257)
Rodgers and Hammerstein's least successful musical, "Me and Juliet," is again available on CD from the British company Flare. The show was an early look at the backstage machinations of a big Broadway musical. The score has an excellent collection of the lush melodies this team contributed to all their shows. And the original Broadway cast has excellent performances from Isabel Bigley and Bill Hayes but the whole cast is winning. It's a shame this show has never been a big success because it sounds like an interesting look at the backstage side of show business and I'd love to see it. At least the winning score is now available again.
Grade: B
"BY JUPITER"
Revival 1967 Cast
DRG Theater/Sony/BMG (19105)
Rodgers and Hart's breezy "By Jupiter" in the excellent 1967 Broadway revival is now again available and the score is delightful, very peppy, and quite melodious. An impeccable cast has great fun with the wonderful score. Bob Dishy, a name from the past, stars and sounds great as does the entire cast. The tunes that stand out include "Jupiter Forbid," "Wait Till You See Her," and "Ev'rything I've Got" but the entire score is a delightful listen. The cast is sharp and the songs are all well sung.
Grade: B+
GWEN VERDON
"THE GIRL I LEFT HOME FOR"
DRG /Sony/BMG (91502)
Great musical comedy star Gwen Verdon didn't do a lot of solo albums. Now comes one of the rare ones that hasn't been available for years. From 1956, "The Girl I Left Home For" came early in Verdon's career and doesn't have several of the big songs she introduced in the many Broadway musicals where she starred and created roles that have become associated with her. The 12-track album includes musical songs and other popular favorites of the day. Verdon does nothing special with any of them and does most rather conventionally. She still has her unique voice and her treatment of all the songs is memorable. The best tracks include "Lady in the Dark's" "Jenny" and "Babes in Arms'" "The Lady Is A Tramp" where she sings them with her famous sexiness. It's great to have this early Verdon recording again and it's good to hear Verdon early on in her remarkable Broadway career.
Grade: B
"THE MIKADO"
Bell Telephone Hour Cast
DRG Theater/Sony/BMG (19106)
The Bell Telephone Hour did a major showcase production of Gilbert and Sullivan's "The Mikado" in 1960 and that treasured recording is again available on the newly remastered CD released by DRG Theater. As might be expected, Groucho Marx stars as Ko-Ko, and he sounds just like he always did but the rest of the recording is an excellent reading of the popular show with such Broadway veterans as Robert Rounseville as a wonderful Nanki-Poo, Stanley Holloway as a raucous Pooh-Ban, Barbara Meister as a delicious Yum-Yum, and the great opera star Helen Traubel as a staunchly regal Katisha. Buster Davis' brisk tempos keep the music zipping along.
Grade: A-
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"THE PIRATE QUEEN"
Original Broadway Cast
Masterworks Broadway (88697-11810-2)
After the first two big hits, "Les Miserables" and "Miss Saigon," the team of Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schonberg, has hit a creative drought. Their more recent shows haven't been big successes and their latest creation, "The Pirate Queen," met with disastrous reviews on Broadway and a short run. Listening to the cast album makes one see why the show was such a disappointment. The tunes try to capture the Irish music clogging dance style made so famous by "Riverdance," but the score sounds like bits and pieces from the team's earlier successes. It easy to listen to the new show and name the song it parallels from their earlier shows. The new show celebrates the real-life story of legendary Irish Chieftain Grace O'Malley, an interesting character who led the life of a pirate in 16th century Ireland. The cast is glorious and sing the routine and ordinary songs as if they had something revolutionary to convey. It's easy to see why "Pirate Queen" was a quick Broadway flop. It's not the new show that will save the team and set London and New York on their ear.
Grade: D
"STREISAND LIVE IN CONCERT 2006"
Live Concert Recording
Columbia (88697019222)
Barbra Streisand's brilliant 2006 concert tour made use of many musical theater classics as she returned to her roots with many fine and touching renditions of Broadway songs, including several "Funny Girl" hits. Not only did Streisand look dazzling, but she sounded amazingly youthful when I saw her during the Phoenix tour stop and the recording captures the wonderful renditions glowingly. The double CD recording captures the entire concert and includes many of Streisand's movie song hits as well as her Broadway hits. It's a great CD and a wonderful reminder of the grand concert Streisand gave during her 2006 tour.
Grade: A
"HAIRSPRAY"
Original Movie Cast
New Line Records (NLR39089)
The "Hairspray" movie changes the Broadway hit a bit as it stresses the script's political commentary more than the just-for-fun Broadway version did. There are some new songs and some that have been re-orchestrated so they sound new. It takes star John Travolta a long time to get going in his portrayal of Edna, the blowsy housewife raising teenage daughter Tracy, while accepting the love of her long time husband. Once Edna comes out to become Tracy's manager, Travolta and the movie soar. Until this point, about a third of the way into the movie, the film is successful because of newcomer Nikki Blonsky who sings gloriously as Tracy. She soars in every song she sings and she is great playing the role. There's lots of dancing in the film and the big numbers are captured well on the soundtrack recording. Like the movie, the recording is a joy, a pleasant, diverting entertainment.
Grade: B+
"LEGALLY BLONDE"
Original Broadway Cast
Ghostlight Records (8-4423)
"Legally Blonde" has done well on Broadway although it hasn't become a huge hit and is not in the sell-out class of a true triumph. The cast album tells why. The score is cute, some of the songs are witty and clever, but this is not a show you will remember a few years down the road after the newness wears off. The show is about a UCLA college girl who pursues her ex-boyfriend to Harvard Law School. The new musical is based on a novel that was turned into a successful movie. The music and lyrics of Laurence O'Keefe and Nell Benjamin are serviceable and pleasant enough but aren't stellar and don't prophesize a big musical theater career in this team's future. The cast recording is unusually long and captures much of the show's music but it also drags through much mediocrity. The cast is stellar and has great fun with the roles. "Legally Blonde" is a pleasant show but it isn't a great new musical.
Grade: C
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Phoenix, AZ (July 21, 2007) - The biggest news for show music collectors is the announcement recently that New York's Footlight Records will be closing for good. This New York store was the only one dedicated to show music CDs and even the old vinyl long-playing records. They also featured movie soundtracks, DVDs of show-related movies and show music personality recordings. They had all the latest show music CDs immediately and they even imported all the London cast recordings along with show recordings from other countries. Footlights had earlier closed its longtime New York store and moved its operations base to the owner's house in Brooklyn where they became an Internet-only operation. According to the announcement posted at www.footlight.com, costs became too much. They tried to maintain the New York store in the face of dramatic rent increase and incurred debt and, along with all the competition from lower priced Internet sites, they decided to throw in the towel.
I discovered Footlight back in my youth when I began collecting show music recordings. It was great to make a weekly call and hear all the latest show music recordings and to just have them sent to me. I can never thank salesman Arnold Wittenstein who, for years, has been my primary source of show music recordings, for his weekly stash with my name on them. Even those cast recordings that Footlight got just a few copies, he and owner Ron Saja would allow them to be sold to me. They often got one-of-a-kind cast recordings or CDs sold only at the Broadway theaters and they would save one for me. I will miss my weekly calls and my weekly shipment package that kept my collection one of the finest in the country.
Yes, there are new Internet sites that list the latest show music recordings but getting them from the sources they recommend will not be as easy as that weekly call to Footlight. I will miss the many friends I have made over the years of various Footlight salespeople and especially my long personal friendship with Arnold and owner Ron. Let's hope some other distributor or show music collector decides to brave the odds and open a CD and DVD store dedicated to the music we grew up on and love. Goodbye, Footlight Records. I will always remember fondly my dealings with your store.
Now to this updates new show music recordings.
"CURTAINS"
Original Broadway Cast
Broadway Angel (0946 3 92212 2 6)
What a refreshing surprise "Curtains" is. The Fred Ebb/John Kander musical is about a new Broadway musical premiering in 1959 in Boston. It's an affectionate love appeal to old Broadway and yet it is tellingly caustic about producing big Broadway musicals. It slaps the genre and points out many of the weird eccentricities of musical theater productions. The show being premiered in "Curtains" is "Robbin' Hood" and the cast is perfect from stars David Hyde Pierce and Debra Monk to all the lush supporting performances of such Broadway stalwarts as Karen Ziemba, Jason Danieley, Jill Paige and Edward Hibbert. The Kander score is rich with wonderful, old-fashioned melodies and Ebb's pointed lyrics are pithy assaults on the art form we all love. The "Curtains" CD is a treasure and one any show music lovers will thoroughly enjoy.
Grade: A
"THE BROADWAY MUSICALS OF 1945"
Town Hall Cast 2005
Bayview Recording Company (RNBW039)
Scott Siegel's brilliant tribute series to various years in Broadway history continues with his fine "The Broadway Musicals of 1945." The year was full of great shows including "Billion Dollar Baby," "Up in Central Park," Lerner and Loewe's first creation, "The Day Before Spring" and, of course, the year's most famous creation, Rodgers and Hammerstein's "Carousel." But the year also brought such delicious goodies as "Polonaise," "Are You With It," "The Firebrand of Florence," "The Girl From Nantucket," "Markinka" and "Carib Song." The selections are tuneful and delightful. The cast is flawless when such fine performers as Karen Mason, Marc Kudisch, Christiane Noll, Eddie Korbich, Kerry Butler and Scott Ailing are included. It's a great collection of musical theater songs and enough of Siegel's telling commentary is included that you get a wonderful musical theater look at 1945.
Grade: A
"FACE THE MUSIC"
Encores! Cast 2007
DRG (DRG-CD-94781)
Irving Berlin wrote several wonderful and well-known musicals that boasted his fine song compositions but he also penned several lesser shows and "Face the Music" is a fine example. The 2007 Encores cast give new life to this 1932 show. Oh, the story isn't great but the tunes are and the wonderful cast does them full justice. Judy Kaye heads a cast of masterful performers who breathe life into this show that "tells what sweet hell it is to put up a musical." The show's plot actually is similar to the more recent "The Producers" as it deals with a Ziegfeld-like producer, Hal Reisman, brilliantly essayed by Walter Bobbie, who sets out to lose a lot of money on a show. "Face the Music" sounds like a 1930s show, but the tuneful songs and the fine performances, make this CD another treasure in several recent show music releases.
Grade: A
"LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS"
Original London Cast
First Night Records (CASTCD97)
"Little Shop of Horrors" is a bright and breezy little spoof that has an outlandish plot about a man-eating plant and a skid row florist who ends up with the plant. It has an upbeat, peppy soft-rock score and lots of familiar tunes that have become part of musical theater history. The original London cast recording, available on CD from London's First Night Records, is a respectable version that does nothing unique or special with the score. Su Pollard is a fine lead and the renditions are all good, if not great or outstanding. If you have the American versions, this is not one to fight to add to your collection and, quite frankly, I'd advise show music lovers who don't have this show to purchase one of the better American versions.
Grade: C
"WONDERFUL TOWN"
Original Cast
Prism Leisure (PLATCD 1242)
"Wonderful Town" is a great Leonard Bernstein show with his masterful score and the original Broadway cast version is a fine one. This new release in The Broadway Musicals Series has the strong original cast recording in total with six bonus tracks from the original Broadway cast recording of "On the Town," another Bernstein masterpiece. It's nice to have these two original cast recordings combined with decent notes on "Wonderful Town" but nothing about "On the Town." I really think having the original releases of both shows is better unless money is a problem, then this combined release is not a bad alternative.
Grade: B
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Phoenix, AZ (June 23, 2007) - With cast recordings to the Broadway bomb "The Pirate Queen" and the surprise hit "Legally Blonde" due out soon, let's look at some recent releases, beginning with "110 in the Shade," starring Audra McDonald:
"110 IN THE SHADE"
2007 Broadway Revival Cast
PS Classics (PS-754)
As one of the few around who saw the original "110 in the Shade" back in 1963, it was with great hesitation that I approached the new Broadway cast recording of this lushly romantic musical by Harvey Schmidt and Tom Jones, with a book by N. Richard Nash based on his play, "The Rainmaker." After all, how could the original cast ever be bettered? Inga Swenson was a stunning Lizzie, Robert Horton was a dashing Starbuck, and Stephen Douglas was a forcefully stable File. But the stunning, newly orchestrated, and brilliantly cast revival is a true triumph. I only wish I had plans to get to New York and see it before it closes its already extended limited run on July 29. As the Broadway reviews suggest, Audra McDonald is a glowing Lizzie, the fragile woman who has never experienced the love she yearns for until conman Starbuck, arrives to sell her parched town on his ability to bring rain. That she ends up getting attracted by Starbuck and the more predictable local sheriff, File, who can't get over his failed marriage to see Lizzie's inner beauty, makes for a tearful tale about the strength of true love. The plush score has been beautifully re-orchestrated by Jonathan Tunick. He makes these very '60s sounding songs appear fresh and alive. McDonald sings each of Lizzie's songs with an amazing passion and intensity. She weaves a rich story with each song that adds touching dimension and depth to Lizzie's lovely tunes. She's brilliant. So is John Cullum as her father, H. C. Curry. Steve Kazee is an oilier and slimier Starbuck and his voice is higher than Horton's. It works beautifully. Christopher Innvar is a pensive and reflective File. This is a stunningly telling and brilliant "110 in the Shade" and, for the first time, I recommend this new PS Classics version over the original cast recording.
Grade: A
"HIGH FIDELITY"
Original Broadway Cast
Ghostlight Records (8-4421)
"High Fidelity" was a Broadway bomb and one can see why when listening to the cast album. The derivative rock score isn't very good or very interesting. The show was based on the best-selling novel by Nick Hornby and represents the first Broadway score by composer Tom Kitt with lyrics by Amanda Green and book by David Lindsay-Abaire. It tells the story of Rob, an owner of a record store and the person who knows everything about pop music. His love of music doesn't translate into affection for any woman. After being dumped by his current girl, Laura, the show goes into dream override relating their top five romantic comebacks. The score is hard to listen to although the cast gives their all to these nothing roles. It's easy to see why this dud closed and just why the producers felt there was a need to release a cast album remains confusing.
Grade: D
"NO ONE IS ALONE"
BARBARA COOK
DRG Records (91501)
Barbara Cook can do no wrong. Her latest album, based on her November 2006 Carnegie Hall appearance, is a gem. She sticks completely to musical theater and she uses her impeccable musical storytelling to bring new interest and new meaning to a collection of familiar show tunes. Some of the shows she's starred in during her long and successful Broadway career but most of the songs are new for Cook's repertory. The best tracks are hard if not impossible to single out as everything she selects and does with great aplomb works beautifully with her mature and rich voice. Cook is wondrous and her latest album stuns as another in a long string of great albums.
Grade: A
"MARTIN SHORT: FAME BECOMES ME"
Original Broadway Cast
Ghostlight Records (8-4420)
Martin Short is a funny man and his latest Broadway show, "Fame Becomes Me," makes one wish his latest Broadway show had played longer and was planning a tour. The material is very humorous and takes several fabulous slams at the Broadway musical and the pompous nature of too many Broadway performers. If you know Broadway musicals and Broadway plays, this show will be richer and funnier to you. In many of the 28 tracks, Short appears and is very funny. If one song must be singled out, though, it would be "A Big Black Lady Stops the Show." It's stunningly performed by cast member Capathia Jenkins, who relishes every delicious slam and word in this very funny tune that hits at enough truth that it makes it even funnier. There are lots of cute backstage stories and gossip and many direct assaults at specific shows both contemporary and historic. "Fame Becomes Me" is a funny toast to Broadway and its humor is packed with truths.
Grade: A
"GREY GARDENS"
Original Broadway Cast
PS Classics (PS-642)
The success of "Grey Gardens" on Broadway after its successful off-Broadway triumph led PS Classics to record new tracks and fix its off-Broadway cast recording to reflect all that is new, changed, or updated in the show's brilliant Broadway transfer. Most wonderfully, the new recording (which will completely replace the formerly available off-Broadway cast recording) features Mary Louise Wilson's brilliant second act performance as the strangely vacant 1973 Edith Bouvier Beale, the recluse of the Kennedy clan who lived in a dilapidated Long Island mansion with her erratic daughter "Little" Edie Beale, played brilliantly by Christine Ebersole. Ebersole plays the mother in the first act's 1941 view of this same family. New songs added for the Broadway production have been included on this new CD and the Broadway performances are all captured here. The new CD comes with a well illustrated and thoughtfully written show commentary. Ebersole and Wilson both give superb performances full of rich nuance and depth. The entire cast is quite exemplary and having this new and faithful Broadway version captures one of the great Broadway musicals of recent years.
Grade: A
"BROADWAY SCENE STEALERS - THE MEN"
Masterworks Broadway/Playbill Records (88697-07236-2)
This compilation album, "Broadway Scene Stealers - The Men," draws on the vast collection of Masterworks Broadway archives and takes some of the best songs for men over the years and puts them on a single CD. This album is a wonderful recollection of great Broadway shows and revivals of great shows. The collection includes "Giants in the Sky ("Into the Woods"), "All I Need Is The Girl" ("Gypsy"), "Dream Drummin'/Soft Music" (Over Here), "The Viper's Drag" ("Ain't Misbehavin'"), "Franklin Shepard, Inc." ("Merrily We Roll Along"), "The Lees of Old Virginia" ("1776"), "Bigger Isn't Better" ("Barnum"), "Miracle of Miracles" ("Fiddler on the Roof"), "I've Got Your Number" ("Little Me"), "Joey, Joey, Joey" ("The Most Happy Fella"), "Captain Hook's Waltz" ("Peter Pan"), and "Mr. Cellophane" ("Chicago"). It's an easy and breezy collection and features many classic tunes from Broadway history.
Grade: B
"BROADWAY SCENE STEALERS - THE WOMEN"
Masterworks Broadway/Playbill Records
Like its counterpart, "Broadway Scene Stealers - The Women" features classic songs by Broadway greats. This collection includes many similar shows to "The Men" album. Here, the songs include, "Ooh! My Feet," ("The Most Happy Fella"), "Cash For Your Trash" ("Ain't Misbehavin'"), "Deep in the Night" ("Inner City"), "He Plays the Violin" ("1776"), "The Miller's Son" (A Little Night Music"), "Gooch's Song" ("Mame"), "Miss Marmelstein" (I Can't Get It For You Wholesale") featuring Barbara Streisand, "Little Girls" ("Annie"), "Everybody's Girl" ("Steel Pier"), "Mr. Monotony" ("Jerome Robbins' Broadway"), "When You're Good to Mama" ("Chicago"), and "You Can Always Count on Me" ("City of Angels"). It's a nice collection although true show music lovers already have all the individual cast recordings.
Grade: A
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Phoenix, AZ (April 5, 2007) - A couple of new Broadway cast CDs are on the immediate horizon. On May 8, 2007, DRG Records will release the first CD version of the Broadway cast recording of "Illya, Darling." On June 5, 2007, EMI/Angel Broadway will release the original cast recording of "Curtains," which just opened on Broadway. A couple of movie musicals will be available on DVD for the first time when "Dreamgirls" is released May 1 followed by "A Little Night Music" with Elizabeth Taylor on May 8. And Lucille Ball's dreadful movie version of "Mame" will be available in May on DVD for the first time.
Now to reviews of new show music releases.
"INTO THE WOODS"
Original Broadway Cast
Masterworks Broadway (82876-68636-2)
The long promised re-releases of four Stephen Sondheim cast albums are finally here from Masterworks Broadway. The first is "Into the Woods," the wonderful fairy tale fantasy featuring an outstanding cast headlined by the great Bernadette Peters. The show is impeccable but the three bonus tracks include three top show songs sung by other popular musical theater artists. The new booklet is jammed with fresh and valuable information on the show.
Grade: A
"MERRILY WE ROLL ALONG"
Original Broadway Cast
Masterworks Broadway (82876-68637-2)
"Merrily We Roll Along" is one of Sondheim's most interesting works as it traces the lives of several characters in backward age order. The score is rich and the storytelling is fabulous. Bonus tracks here include Bernadette Peters doing a brilliant "Not A Day Goes By" along with Sondheim himself doing "It's A Hit." Great show music in an interesting story.
Grade: A
"SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE"
Original Broadway Cast
Masterworks Broadway (82876-68638-2)
Perhaps my favorite Sondheim show is "Sunday in the Park with George" - especially because of the brilliant first act closer when the wonderful by Georges Seurat painting "A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte" is re-created on stage with the cast and appropriate set pieces. The show's second act, a more modern look at art, is not as dramatically effective but the scoring is quite brilliant as is the same cast that makes the first act so wonderful reappear, especially Mandy Patinkin who does a strong George in the first act, and Bernadette Peters who is a fine Dot, his mistress, in the first act and makes a fine Marie, the grandmother, in the second act. Bonus tracks include a great "Putting It Together" from the Julie Andrews musical of the same name, and a solo "Sunday" from Peters' 1992 Carnegie Hall appearance. Another superb Sondheim show.
Grade: A
"SWEENEY TODD"
Original Broadway Cast
Masterworks Broadway (82876-68639-2)
Probably Sondheim's most recognized hit, "Sweeney Todd," was a masterwork in the brilliant original Broadway cast recording that featured the perfect title character in Len Cariou and the best Mrs. Lovett ever with the brilliant performance of Angela Lansbury, who curls up around the part and turns in an amazing portrayal. Bonus tracks here include a wonderful "Symphonic Sondheim: Sweeney Todd" featuring Jerry Hadley, Eugene Perry, and Herbert Perry. This new version is, of course, the full version complete on two CDs. Amazing.
Grade: A
"THE BROADWAY MUSICALS OF 1929"
Broadway Cast
Bayview Recording Company (RNBW038)
Another release of "The Broadway Musicals" series this time the year is 1929 when 52 shows opened including such great shows as "Bitter Sweet," "Fifty Million Frenchmen" and "Spring Is Here." The selections on the new Bayview CD is loaded with hits and they are all impeccably sung by a cast featuring Leslie Anderson, Nancy Anderson, Christine Andreas, Bryan Batt, Ron Bohmer, Mary Bond Davis, Jeffry Denman, Noah Racey and Emily Skinner. Scott Siegel does his usual wonderful job narrating and providing many succinct facts about the shows before the wonderful versions presented by these excellent artists. Another enjoyable hit.
Grade: A
"COMPANY"
Broadway Revival Cast
Nonesuch/PS Classics (106876-2)
The new "Company" cast sounds great on the CD, but not as good in person. After seeing this new cast in the theater, I wasn't too excited about the CD. In person, the show sounded mediocre; as if director John Doyle got so possessed with having the cast play the superb Stephen Sondheim music that his casting wasn't anything special. But on the CD, the show sounds great. The Sondheim score sounds fresh and alive, something that didn't happen when I saw the show on Broadway. Raul Esparza is a great Bobby and his version of "Being Alive" is definitive. This cast version provides insight into this bachelor Bobby and the only person in the show who isn't happily married. "The Ladies Who Lunch" is also well sung by Barbara Walsh in a haunting version of this insightful look at the frustrations of marriage. The rest of the large cast sounds wonderful in both solo numbers and in ensemble efforts. The show looks askew at marriage and is a harsh slap at married life. George Furth's marriage view is slanted and negative but here Sondheim's rich score gets a wonderful treatment. Oh, the new cast recording can never replace the original cast version that is so fresh and so alive.
Grade: A
"LITTLE MARY SUNSHINE"
Original Off-Broadway Cast
DRG Theater (19099)
It's nice to again have the wonderful off-Broadway cast recording of "Little Mary Sunshine" available. This pristine Rick Besoyan musical spoof affectionately tackles the rapturous old musicals of Victor Herbert, Rudolf Friml and Sigmund Romberg. "Little Mary Sunshine" takes a fun swipe at "Rose Marie" complete with a nice slap at the Mounties although this show is set in the Colorado Rocky Mountains. The breezy score spoofs "Rose Marie" right down to the "Colorado Love Call" and the wonderfully reflective "Do You Ever Dream of Vienna?." The off-Broadway cast is a rich one with John McMartin and the wonderful Little Mary Sunshine of Eileen Brennan but the entire cast is bright and sharp. The score is a delightful listen and it's nice to have this show available again.
Grade: A
"MUSICALS THE ESSENTIAL ALBUM"
Union Square Music (ESNDCD220)
The two CD collection "Musicals The Essential Album" is a compilation of the best current Musical Theater artists in a collection of the finest show music available today along with a smattering of old classic singers in winning show music selections like Judy Garland's definitive "Over the Rainbow" and Cleo Laine's rich version of "A Little Night Music's" "Send in the Clowns." The two CD collection is a wonderful collection of show tunes. There are great musicals from Broadway history along with the best of the current crop of fine renditions of definitive current shows.
Grade: B
"RAW AT TOWN HALL"
EMILY SKINNER/ALICE RIPLEY
Kritzerland (KR 20011-0)
Emily Skinner and Alice Ripley pair in a wonderful collection of tunes in "Raw at Town Hall." The two CD set has a wonderful collection of current and past Broadway musical hits along with a fine sampling of the pair's recent Broadway success, "Side Show," when these two fine singers joined forces in a definitive Broadway musical triumph. There are rich solos and wonderful duets. All are well sung and are in brilliantly alive versions supported with wonderful instrumentals from a definitive band. This "Raw at Town Hall" CD is a rich and wonderful collection that features these two fine singers in a definitive collection that make the pair sound fabulous.
Grade: A
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Phoenix, AZ (February 25, 2007) - Very little show music news this update. 2007 will be a slim year for strong new editions of show music classics. It will be interesting to see if the record labels that have a host of shows that haven't been officially adapted to CDs will show up. DRG Records has several new conversions scheduled but lists through the year show no other major conversions suggesting that Sony that now owns most of the old record labels isn't planning any great releases. There are always a few interesting things coming out and a couple of these are reviewed below. Foreign cast albums of popular Broadway shows will remain big news and a few labels like Ghostlight Records are still finding unusual things to bring us.
Now to reviews of new show music releases.
"HAPPY END"
American Conservatory Theatre Cast
Ghostlight Records (7915584418-2)
The first English language recording of Kurt Weill/Bertolt Brecht's "Happy End" occurred when San Francisco's American Conservatory Theatre mounted a critically acclaimed production that was recorded in all its pristine glory by Ghostlight Records. The score sounds like other shows this talented German team completed. But the differences are fascinating and the cast is wonderful both in portraying the complex characters and in singing Weill's rich score. Three classic Weill tunes mark this show including "Surabaya Johnny," "The Bilbao Song," and "The Sailor's Tango," all brilliantly realized on the recording. Like most Ghostlight releases, this one has a very complete booklet filled with production pictures that portray the rich production ACT mounted. The show is particularly interesting in light of the Broadway production of "LoveMusik," a new musical based on the romance of Weill and his love who starred in many of his shows, Lotte Lenya." This recording is a choice and prime addition to any show music lover's collection and is a must buy of 2007, a year that doesn't promise much of interest in show music recordings.
Grade: A
"PRODUCEREK" ("THE PRODUCERS")
Original Hungarian Cast
Metro (RET047)
"The Producers" is a huge hit on Broadway and was successful on the road in this country. Foreign language production continues to pop up and all have been well cast and sound identical to the Broadway version - just in a foreign tongue. The Hungarian version of this show is wonderful and very complete with the recording exceeding the normal maximum running time for CDs. The songs sound bright and funny and the cast seems strong. Max and Leo play off each other well just as Nathan Lane and Matthew Broderick did on Broadway. The big production number still has the glitzy and rambunctious sound we have come to expect from this comic musical masterpiece. The Hungarian cast of "The Producers" is a strong and vibrant one and if you like the show and collect foreign cast show music this is a good one to get.
Grade: A
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Phoenix, AZ (January 23, 2007) - I'm currently in New York on my annual Broadway pilgrimage, seeing nine new shows in six days, including "The Apple Tree," "Tarzan," "Spring Awakening," "Mary Poppins," "Company" and "Grey Gardens." There has been little new released in the way of show music during the early weeks of the new year but a new series, "Legends of Broadway," came out with four tribute albums just as 2006 ended. I review those below along with a revival of a Rudolf Friml show by The Ohio Light Opera:
"THE FIREFLY"
The Ohio Light Opera Cast
Albany Records (891/92)
Rudolf Friml wrote delightfully silly but melodically lovely operettas during the early part of the last century. His shows didn't push musical theater and he pleased loyal audiences with his tuneful scores. Such is the case with one of his lesser-known shows, "The Firefly." In a brilliant new recording - said to be the first complete recording of the show - his beautiful songs flow easily when executed by the richly talented Ohio Light Opera cast. This show was Friml's first Broadway success and the piece has a fractured love tale that doesn't play well today. But the songs are what make this show interesting and they are given brilliant renditions in this recording. "The Firefly" is a step back in time when love interests dominated most musical theater plots and everything always worked out so favorably for everyone. Getting through all the silliness with such beautiful music is a chore I will endure anytime.
Grade: A
"LEGENDS OF BROADWAY - BARBARA COOK"
Masterworks Broadway (82876-88398-2)
Now that Sony Music owns so many old labels, its stock of Broadway treasures is rich, so the label has decided to use all the old show recordings they have in a new series, "Legends of Broadway." The first four releases pay tribute to four of Broadway's finest female stars. Of the new collection, my favorite is Barbara Cook's album. The collection of songs come from her Broadway triumphs - "Candide," "The Music Man," "The Gay Life" and "She Loves Me," with extra tracks from her concert versions of songs from other Broadway hits and others from her recordings of classic Broadway musicals that she's played in during various revivals. These include "The King and I," "Follies," and "Show Boat." Cook's young voice here is a marvel but there's nothing wrong with the richer, fuller sound her more mature voice produces today, so some of the later concert version recordings are the finest. The album traces her career and the sound of her stunning voice at key points throughout her long and fruitful career are a rich and rewarding tribute. There's nothing in the new album I don't enjoy and hearing her voice go through its natural evolution is a treat. What a great new series Sony has developed. The accompanying booklet on Cook's career is filled with interesting pictures and a current interview that gives this great artist a chance to comment on her career.
Grade: A
"LEGENDS OF BROADWAY - ANGELA LANSBURY"
Masterworks Broadway (82876-88397-2)
No less brilliant than Cook is Angela Lansbury. The selections here show the diversity of Lansbury's Broadway musical career. There are selections from three Sondheim classics she first played on Broadway, "Anyone Can Whistle," "Gypsy" and "Sweeney Todd." There's also the requisite selections from "Mame," her first huge stage success, and "Dear World," another Jerry Herman show she first introduced to audiences. The accompanying booklet is loaded with facts and pictures. What this series does is put highlights from these artists career on one disk. We all have these recordings but linking them together allows us to hear a person's career, her biggest shows, and the changes in these performers' voices that make them so right from the roles they play as their careers mature and prosper. Another triumph for this series is the Angela Lansbury "Legends of Broadway" tribute.
Grade: A
"LEGENDS OF BROADWAY - BERNADETTE PETERS"
Masterworks Broadway (82876-88399-2)
Bernadette Peters is a big Broadway star and she's taken some new directions in recent years. Her career sounds great in this tribute album. There are some of her recent hits including "Annie Get Your Gun" and "Gypsy," along with earlier achievements like "Dames at Sea," "Sunday in the Park With George," "Song and Dance," "Into the Woods" and "Mack and Mabel." It's a diverse and interesting collection of shows that Peters has been in and this album is a good representation of her rich career.
Grade: A
"LEGENDS OF BROADWAY - CHITA RIVERA"
Masterworks Broadway (82876-88402-2)
The final winner in this new series is devoted to Chita Rivera and the album goes all the way back to the excitement of "West Side Story" and "Bye, Bye Birdie," along with one of her less successful but still fascinating early shows, "Bajour." Her more recent hits including the original "Chicago" and "Kiss of the Spider Woman." The selections here show the range and changes in her voice. An enjoyable delight, the "Legends of Broadway - Chita Rivera" album is a wonderful listen as it shows the length and breadth of Rivera's long and richly rewarding Broadway reign.
Grade: A
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Phoenix, AZ (December 26, 2006) - Lots of news about cast-related recordings. First off, Sony will release four CDs today in the first entries of the Legends of Broadway series. This year's winners are Angela Lansbury, Barbara Cook, Bernadette Peters, and Chita Rivera. They will be the first four artists in this continuing new series.
Speaking of Cook, she was named Vocalist of the Year by Musical America. She received her award December 20.
The new Broadway "Company" recorded their version of the Stephen Sondheim score for a joint production between Nonesuch and PS Classics. Apparently, the just closed "High Fidelity" may record a cast album on Sh-K-Boom.
To all my loyal readers, a wish for a great holiday season and to a wonderful 2007 full of exciting new and long out-of-print cast albums.
Now to reviews of new show music releases:
"DREAMGIRLS"
Original Soundtrack Cast
Sony Music (82876-88953 2)
The movie version of "Dreamgirls" is supposed to be a big hit. It didn't open in Phoenix until Christmas so I haven't seen it yet, but the soundtrack is one of the most exciting sounding movie versions of a big Broadway hit in years. Created by the same team that adapted "Chicago," the "Dreamgirls" soundtrack has all the familiar music by in exciting new orchestrations and sung by a great cast. Especially impressive is "American Idol" veteran, Jennifer Hudson, who sings the great showstopper, "And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going," with the most plaintive soul-searching depth that the song vibrated every time I put on the album. But the entire cast is impressive and the vocals are superb. The scenes in the accompanying booklet make the film look lavish and I can hardly wait to see it if for no other reason than to see Hudson's performance as Effie White, the singer whose singing career almost gets sidetracked by her personal struggles. This film musical appears to be a huge winner and the album is a dynamic treasure.
Grade: A
"SPRING AWAKENING"
Original Broadway Cast
Decca Broadway (B0008020-02)
I wasn't impressed by what I had read about "Spring Awakening" but when I heard the cast album, I'm looking forward to seeing the show during my annual Broadway trip next month. The show, a real rock show, traces the struggles of young adolescents, a perplexing and difficult subject to deal with on stage. The score takes some time to understand and enjoy, but repeated hearings help bring the score's brilliant songs by Duncan Sheik and the perceptive lyrics of Steven Sater vividly to life. Like so many modern shows, this one is blatantly truthful and has some raucous and explicit language. It's nice to hear a completely original show that isn't an adaptation of an old movie or play and that presents life in a challenging and enlightening new way.
Grade: A
"THE SOUND OF MUSIC"
2006 London Palladium Cast
Really Useful Records (1718876)
The new London production of "The Sound of Music" is famous because it is produced by Andrew Lloyd Webber and features Connie Fisher as Maria, a role she won in a hugely publicized British popularity contest. The result is a typical and none-too-revolutionary treatment of the saccharin musical about a novice nun's shift away from the Church to a traditional marriage with a built-in brood of kids. Fisher isn't anything special and her voice often runs out of steam at big musical moments suggesting she doesn't have the pipes for a sustained musical theater career. The supporting cast, except for a wonderful group of children, is nothing special either. Like so many recent stage versions of the Rodgers and Hammerstein classic, the version combines the stage and movie version and includes some of the songs Rodgers wrote for the screen adaptation. There's nothing special here and if I was headed to London, this "The Sound of Music" revival wouldn't be high on my list of shows to see. So the cast album isn't a must purchase even for show lovers.
Grade: C
"THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW"
Original Vancouver Cast
No Label or Number
The Vancouver "The Rocky Horror Show" is a bland and lifeless version of the popular cult musical. The cast breathes no special life into the campy of fun material and the reason for this recording seems to relate to the vanity of some cast members who must have wanted their nothing interpretation saved but for what reason. There are wonderfully exciting recorded versions of this show, but the Vancouver cast is not one of them.
Grade: F
"JACQUES BREL IS ALIVE AND WELL AND LIVING IN PARIS"
2006 Off-Broadway Cast
Ghostlight Records (7915584416-2)
"Jacques Brel Is Alive and Well and Living in Paris" is one of those shows that rarely sounds the same from version to version. The treatment of the Brel songs is unique and so each interpretation makes the music sound different and unique. The new off-Broadway version is such a case. The cast is strong and includes Robert Cuccioli, Natascia Diaz, Rodney Hicks, and Gay Marshall. They all sound great and make these plaintive and haunting songs their own. The show is wonderful look at life and the new version does a rich job of making the songs telling statements about various aspects of everyday living. Nothing beats the original cast version, though, and I can't say the new cast does a better performance than the definitive first group.
Grade: B
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Phoenix, AZ (December 3, 2006) - The copies of the three new DVD releases of 20th Century Fox film versions of Rodgers and Hammerstein musicals arrived but I've only had a chance to watch a few of the "extras" on "The King and I." These bonuses are fantastic as is the commentary about the film that can be listened to while the excellent movie plays. I'm still awaiting a chance to enjoy similar features on the newly released "Carousel" and "South Pacific."
Of course, "The King and I" movie version is one of the finest transfers of a Broadway musical to the screen. It faithfully recreates the show minus a few songs and preserves the brilliant Jerome Robbins "The Small House of Uncle Thomas" ballet. But the film's most outstanding feature is the extraordinary performance of Deborah Kerr (with Marni Nixon's singing voice) as Anna and Yul Brynner's unbelievably sharp King. Kerr displays the character's fortitude, determination, and her sharp nut clever one-upmanship of the King. Nixon's vocals are coordinated perfectly and it's hard to believe that Kerr isn't actually singing. Brynner's brilliant portrayal of the King made his career. He played this role on the stage throughout his lengthy career and he won an Academy Award for his movie portrayal.
I also got the first time DVD release of Rodgers and Hammerstein's "Flower Drum Song." It proves a solid if undistinguished film adaptation of this lesser R&H show. There's an abundance of interesting "extras" on this one.
These new versions of these great Broadway musical film adaptations are a treasure but each one is so rich with a pristine version of the film plus the many "extras" you must devote lengthy viewing periods to each. Most of them also include interviews with cast members and scenes from the original Broadway productions, extras that musical theater lovers will treasure. These are an excellent holiday gift giving idea.
Now to reviews of new show music releases.
"THE FANTASTICKS"
New 2006 Off-Broadway Cast
Ghostlight Records (8-4415)
A new and more complete "The Fantasticks" is always welcome and Ghostlight Records has preserved the current off-Broadway cast. The singing is strong and is consistent with the original production. Burke Moses is a commanding and lushly sung interpretation, Santino Fontana has a welcome mature sound as Matt, Sara Jean Ford's pretty soprano is perfect for Luisa and the comic supporting players all add strong vocal renditions. The performance is very complete. At the end, there's a bonus track, "O Have You Ever Been To China?," performed by composer Harvey Schmidt back in 1959. The accompanying booklet has interesting background articles on the show and a full inclusion of all the song lyrics along with nice pictorials of the new production. I wouldn't say this new version is better than the famous original cast recording that is still available but it has more music and is well performed.
Grade: B
"BROADWAY UNPLUGGED 2"
Original Off-Broadway Cast
Bayview Recording Company (RNBW037)
Scott Siegel's impressive series of concerts devoted to various years of musical theater history are a wonderful record of the best songs from the years selected and are always performed by leading contemporary musical theater stars. In addition to the standard series that all have CDs that preserve the performances, Siegel also does a "Broadway Unplugged" series and the second installment of this series has just been released. It is one of the best and most interesting of Siegel's shows. The cast includes Bobby Belfry, Ron Bohmer, Brandon Cutrell, Bill Daugherty, Mary Bond Davis, Sutton Foster, Peter Gonyo, Cheyenne Jackson, Eddie Korbich, Jenifer Kruskamp, Marc Kudisch, Norm Lewis, Deven May, William Michals, Euan Morton, Christiane Noll, Emily Skinner, Anne Steele, Barbara Walsh, Steven Ray Watkins, and Lennie Waits. All have been on Broadway recently and all have wonderful vocal pipes that do full justice to the 18 tracks, all performed without microphones, and from a wide range of classic musical as well as current hits. It's hard to pick favorites but Skinner's rich "Raunchy" from "110 in the Shade," Jackson's stunningly lovely "Joey, Joey, Joey" from "The Most Happy Fella," Liz Callaway's fun "Be A Lion" from "The Wiz," and a playful "Anything You Can Do" from "Annie Get Your Gun" with Kudisch and Foster, are highlights. Siegel's commentary is tight and short but adds some interesting insights on the shows included.
Grade: A
"FAVOURITE THINGS"
CONNIE FISHER
Really Useful Group/Polydor (FASC007)
The reviews on the current London revival of "The Sound of Music" have been strong and most comment positively on star Connie Fisher's strong vocals as Maria. In conjunction with the new show, comes Fisher's premiere solo album, "Favourite Things," and she displays a strong if not particularly distinctive voice. She does two big "The Sound of Music" songs, "My Favourite Things" and Something Good" and the back of the accompanying booklet boasts the coming recording of the revival. The other 10 selections here are mostly from musicals and all are competent, solid, but nothing particularly unique or special. I'd wait for the revival cast recording to hear Fisher's singing. Fisher's solo CD is nothing out of the ordinary.
Grade: C
"ESSENTIAL MUSICALS"
ELAINE PAIGE
Universal Music (1709789)
Elaine Paige is a reigning London musical theater star and she's developed an American following with her Broadway "Sunset Boulevard" performance. Her newest solo album, "Essential Musicals," includes selections that are all from shows but not necessarily from musicals in which she's starred. All the arrangements are enhanced from the original versions from the shows these songs are taken and Paige sounds dynamic and sultry throughout. She also does several songs assigned to male roles and she does them with poise and distinction. Her "Edelweis" from "The Sound of Music" is lovely, her "Bring Him Home" from "Les Miserables" is full bodied and strong, but her ending number, "Broadway Baby" from "Follies" is a fitting and rich finale. Paige is a strong and wonderful musical theater star and she doesn't forget her musical theater roots. "Essential Musicals" is a nice recording for musical theater lovers.
Grade: B
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Phoenix, AZ (November 12, 2006) - A new DVD was just released called "The Making of Miss Saigon." It's a documentary of the Broadway show and includes much footage from the original London and Broadway cast productions. I haven't had a chance yet to view my copy but it is something that should interest musical theater lovers. I'm awaiting my copies of the three anniversary editions by 20th Century Fox of Rodgers and Hammerstein movie versions of their Broadway hits. This time we get "Carousel," "The King and I" and "South Pacific." There's also a boxed set that includes the previously released anniversary versions of "Oklahoma," "State Fair" and "The Sound of Music."
Many of the new CDs reviewed below are re-releases of old shows that have been available before. A couple of completely new shows are also included. Also this week comes this year's "Broadway's Greatest Gifts: Carols for a Cure Vol. 8" that has current Broadway show casts singing holiday songs.
Interestingly, with weekly shipments from publicists and Footlight Records, I get 15 to 20 new show music CDs each week. I can only review a few of every two weeks, so I try to pick the most interesting of the new items.
Now to reviews of new show music releases:
"BROADWAY'S GREATEST GIFTS: CAROLS FOR A CURE - Vol. 8"
Rock-It Science Records (No Number)
The popular Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS series of holiday releases that feature current Broadway musical casts in popular and unusual songs that celebrate the season has released the eighth volume and it's the best of these releases in several years. The two-disk set features a variety of holiday music types and styles all featuring unique and clever arrangements and sung by the excellent casts of current shows, including "Jersey Boys," "The Drowsy Chaperone," "Wicked," "Mary Poppins" and "The Color Purple." This year's album is far more festive and has several welcome non-traditional songs from other holiday celebrations beside Christmas. I listened to this year's recording in late October before Halloween and it immediately started my annual process of getting in the holiday spirit. This year's "Broadway's Greatest Gifts: Carols for a Cure Vol. 8" is a treasure.
Grade: A
"MAMMA MIA! 5TH ANNIVERSARY YEAR ON BROADWAY"
Original London Cast
Decca Broadway (80007645-00)
"Mamma Mia!" has been on Broadway for five years. In an effort to cash in on the show's tremendous success and ongoing popularity, Decca Broadway has re-released the cast recording with some new tracks and a Special Edition DVD that tries to explain the musical's phenomenal success with a myriad of scenes from the original and subsequent productions. The interesting thing is that the cast recording is from the original London cast as the original Broadway cast never recorded the score. It's too bad that we don't have a true Broadway cast recording. The DVD is a welcome delight because it captures so many of the stage show's successful moments for posterity.
Grade: A
"NUNSENSE A-MEN!"
National Cast
Nunsense (No Number)
"Nunsense" has become quite a phenomenon spawning a myriad of variations all using the wacky nuns of New Jersey's The Little Sisters of Hoboken and their variety show to raise funds when they discover that their cook, Sister Julia, Child of God, has accidentally poisoned some of their sisters and they don't have enough for the burials. The latest incarnation, "Nunsense A-Men!," features an all-male cast parading as the nuns using the show's original version. There is some unintentionally funny stuff when men play these roles, and the original material is still fresh and funny. I'm sure the latest variation will make it around the country in productions during the next few years as theaters use the new version to raise money.
Grade: B
"LIVE FROM THE CAFE CARLYLE"
EARTHA KITT
DRG Records (91499)
At almost 80 years old, Eartha Kitt still possesses her characteristic sultry voice and mellow way with a song in her latest CD, Eartha Kitt "Live from the Cafe Carlyle." She knows how to use what's left of her voice as she incarnates several wonderful songs with brilliant arrangements and her still rich voice. There's no standout song in the 17 tracks because they are all so rewarding and the new album is a treasure. Like Barbara Cook, Kitt hasn't let the years detract from either her voice or her unique song styling.
Grade: A
"CALL ME MADAM"
Original Broadway Cast, Studio Recording, and Radio Broadcast 1950
Naxos Musicals (8.120794)
Irving Berlin's "Call Me Madam" was a huge hit for Ethel Merman. The show is rarely seen today because of the difficulty of finding a star to play the central role of Mrs. Sally Adams, a fictional composite of Ambassador Perle Mesta. The show is full of witty political commentary and Merman's huge personality carries the show. Naxos Musicals has combined the long available Broadway studio cast that featured Merman along with the cast album that featured Dinah Shore because of Merman's contractual terms that prevented her from recording the cast album on a competing label. The comprehensive CD also includes excerpts from the film that starred Merman and a 1950 radio broadcast that also featured Merman. It's a wonderful collection of the various "Call Me Madam" versions and a real tribute this fine Berlin show and Merman's stellar performance in the lead role.
Grade: A
"SINGIN' IN THE RAIN"
Studio Cast
JAY Records (CDJAY 1262)
"Singin' in the Rain" was one of Hollywood's most successful musicals both artistically and economically. The movie's success made it the ideal transfer to the stage. The show wasn't the big success on stage that it was as a movie, but the score is winsome and the cast featured on the JAY Records release is infectious and sings the songs with welcome luster. There were few changes in the conversion from film to stage so the pleasant and predictable story is intact as are the excellent songs. The four leads - Michael Gruber, Nancy Ringham, Randy Rogel, and Christina Saffran - couldn't be better and the National Symphony Orchestra under the lusty conducting of Craig Barna brings the vibrant score to brilliant life.
Grade: B
"CABARET"
Studio Cast
JAY Records (CDJAY2 1311)
JAY Records has put together some fine casts for its many studio recordings of the best musicals. Such is the case with its complete "Cabaret" that features Jonathan Pryce as the M.C., Judi Dench in the small Fraulein Schneider role, lyric writer Fred Ebb as her love interest Herr Schultz, Greg Edelman as Clifford and Maria Friedman as Sally. The score is presented excellently by this distinguished and accomplished cast. The completeness of the recording allows us to have on CD some music never before available. The characterizations of the performers couldn't be better or more perceptive. The recording also includes three tracks from the successful 1987 Broadway revival that was not officially recorded and four tracks from the film featuring songs not heard in the stage versions. This "Cabaret" is a gem.
Grade: A
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Phoenix, AZ (October 29, 2006) - Two new releases, the new Broadway cast recording of "A Chorus Line" and "Irving Berlin's White Christmas," are worthy of adding to your CD collection:
"A CHORUS LINE"
2006 Revival Broadway Cast
Masterworks Broadway (82876-89785-2)
There have been many opinions of the new "A Chorus Line" revival production currently on Broadway. Now comes the cast recording of this version and the chance for those of us not in New York to hear the new cast. The revival is touted as being a re-creation of the original production in its look, sound, and staging and, based on the CD, that's exactly the case. There's nothing new here in terms of interpreting the show and many of the current performers duplicate the sound of the original cast member. But that's not bad and there's lots of energy and gusto from this cast. All the songs are impeccably handled and the production is no doubt a treat for those who missed the original production. Each performer makes their part distinctive, unique, and telling. Some of the songs contain more introductory material and a few get extended treatments of songs that got abbreviated on the original cast recording. Since the original cast recording is still readily available, it's hard to recommend this new version over those original performers who were the actual characters they played but the extra material and the dynamic performance make this a version that should be beside the original cast recording in any true show music lovers library.
Grade: A
"IRVING BERLIN'S WHITE CHRISTMAS"
Original San Francisco Cast
Ghostlight Records (7915581225-2)
After a summer 2000 tryout at the St. Louis Municipal Opera, a stage version of the always popular "Irving Berlin's White Christmas" seemed inevitable. It seemed the perfect holiday show to compete with the overdone "The Nutcracker" and the twisted Dickens look at the holiday in "A Christmas Carol." In 2004, the reworked stage version of "White Christmas" debuted in San Francisco to great success where it remains a regular holiday offering. Other productions were tried last year and this year promises the show in even more cities. The first recording of the stage version is now out and it features the original San Francisco leads including Anastasia Barzee as Betty, Brian d'Arcy James as Bob, Jeffry Denman as Phil, and Karen Morrow as Martha. The stage version features the familiar Irving Berlin collection of wonderful tunes and the show on this recording, brings back rich family memories of watching the movie as part of holiday traditions. The color pictures of the production reveal it to be an eye-filler and the cast sounds impeccable crooning the warm and tuneful score. I can hardly wait to add this show to the holiday show collection when it finally debuts here in Phoenix. Hopefully that will be soon.
Grade: A
"BROADWAY LOVE"
ANDREW HELLER
Heller Records (AH3305)
As a show music critic, I receive lots of CDs featuring performers singing collections of Broadway tunes. Some of these reveal singers who have the ability to vary their voices and interpretations so that each song has the feel intended in the show it came from. Sometimes performers with pleasant voices try Broadway music unsuccessfully and sometimes I get anthologies from performers who have no particular knack for Broadway music. The later is the case with Andrew Heller in his "Broadway Love." Heller's voice isn't a beautiful instrument and he struggles with many of the high notes in the various songs he's picked from several popular shows. And all the song renditions sound the same in terms of the mediocre orchestrations and in Heller's treatment of them. Heller's biography of shows he's actually performed isn't including suggesting that perhaps this album is his attempt to sell himself to musical theater producers. This CD is one to skip and Heller needs to spend lots of time working on interpretation and basic vocal technique before he can ever hope to successfully star in a stage musical.
Grade: D
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Phoenix (October 15, 2006) - The new Broadway cast recording to "A Chorus Line's" is now out and I'll have a review in my next report. Later this month, JAY Records will release the first recording of the off-Broadway musical hit "Summer of '42." On November 7, Rhino will release the original cast recording of the off-Broadway hit, "Shout! The Mod Musical." Two musical theater stars are readying new show music oriented CDs. Elaine Paige's "Essential Musicals" will include 13 tracks including some unusual selections of male song hits. The CD will be available in Great Britain on October 23 and will no doubt show up in the United States shortly thereafter. Andrea Burns, who starred in the national tour of "Parade," just recorded her first solo CD for PS Classics. No list of tracks as yet but the CD should be available in early 2007.
Now to reviews of new show music releases.
"I LOVE YOU BECAUSE"
Original Off-Broadway Casts
PS Classics (PS-643)
What a refreshing listen the new Off-Broadway musical "I Love You Because" is. The richly melodic songs have pithy, pointed, and articulate lyrics and the songs reveal the show's premise and plot clearly. The cast is bright and talented adding meaning and gusto to the wonderful songs by Joshua Salzman with lyrics by Ryan Cunningham. The six-person cast includes Farah Alvin, David A. Austin, Colin Hanlon, Jordan Leeds, Courtney Balan and Stephanie D'Abruzzo, who is becoming quite a respectable Broadway star, and they all bring warmth and mellow intensity to the roles they sing and to their wonderful interpretation of the tellingly pointed songs. The show's subtitle, "A Modern Day Musical Love Story," tells what this charmer is about as it explores the complexities and commitments of modern love affairs. Look for this talented team to be a major new voice in the contemporary musical theater scene.
Grade: A
"CHICAGO - THE MUSICAL 10TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION"
Revival and Foreign Casts
Masterworks Broadway (82876-89784-2)
For the 10th anniversary of the successful Broadway revival of "Chicago," Masterworks Broadway has released an attractive two CD/DVD collection as a tribute to the Tony Award winning and Broadway's longest running revival. The package includes a nice collection of pictures and commentary about the revival plus the revival cast recording of the musical that took Broadway by storm. Featuring Ann Reinking's definitive Roxie Hart and Bebe Neuwirth's haughty Velma Kelly, the recording is a gem. The other CD is a collection of "Chicago" songs, including demo recordings by Fred Ebb and John Kander, the genius writers behind this now classic musical and a selection of songs by other stars of the revival as well as selections by a couple of foreign casts plus two numbers by the show's original cast, Gwen Verdon, Chita Rivera, and Jerry Orbach. Songs by stars who have been paraded in and out of the continually playing Broadway revival cast, such as Lynda Carter, Brooke Shields and Melanie Griffith, are undistinguished and uninteresting and none match the revival's original cast. The DVD is short and features rather bland interviews with the revival's stars and some international performance footage from productions playing in Holland, Italy, Brazil, Germany, Mexico, and Russia. While a nice collection in a very attractive package, I was dismayed that no footage from the original production was included.
Grade: B
"ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER DIVAS"
Really Useful Records/Decca Broadway (B0005990-02)
Although I reviewed "Andrew Lloyd Webber Divas" recording when it was released in Europe, the American edition is now out and includes several different tracks. It's a nice collection of the composer's biggest hit songs sung by an array of the artists who have played roles in his shows. All these songs have been available previously including several from cast albums of Lloyd Webber's shows. It's a nice recording to play as background music for show music lovers.
Grade: C
"THE GERSHWINS' PORGY & BESS"
Studio Cast
Decca (B0007431-02)
Another recording of "Porgy & Bess." With so many wonderful recordings already available, this seems like an unnecessary addition. There's nothing special here, just straightforward renditions by contemporary artists with the Nashville Symphony Orchestra and Chorus conducted by John Mauceri. It's a fine version of the show but how many "Porgy & Bess" recordings do you need. This new one is certainly not distinctive enough to add.
Grade: B
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Phoenix, AZ (September 24, 2006) - The cast recording of the Broadway revival of "A Chorus Line" comes out on CD October 10. Now to reviews of new show music releases already available:
"GENTLEMEN PREFER BLONDES"/"HIGH BUTTON SHOES"
Original Broadway Casts
Naxos Musicals (8.120793)
Naxos continues to release old shows often combining two musicals on a single CD. Unfortunately, these releases are not well-produced versions and they are rarely re-mastered so they sound old. They are often not in stereo. But they are making old shows that may be out-of-print again available. These chestnut shows are often only of interest to real show music lovers but they remind us of lovely old shows and the fine performances that made these shows the big hits that they became. Such is the case with the latest release, a combination of "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes" and "High Button Shows." These shows, both from the late 1940s, include catchy songs by Jule Styne. Both shows are filled with familiar tunes that show music lovers adore and many of the performances on both shows are classics. Carol Channing gave Lorelei a much gutsier and earthy feel than Marilyn Monroe did in the film version of "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes." Her raucous "Diamonds Are A Girl's Best Friend" is something wonderful. "High Button Shoes" features warm performances by Nanette Fabray and a lusty Phil Silvers. The show's most famous song hit, "Papa, Won't You Dance With Me?," is wonderful. Unfortunately, the sound on this CD is not great and doesn't enhance the original recordings.
Grade: B
"SIMPLY SONDHEIM - A 75TH BIRTHDAY SALUTE"
San Francisco Cast
Kritzerland (KR 20010-8)
San Francisco staged a big celebration concert to celebrate Stephen Sondheim's 75th birthday, "Simply Sondheim - A 75th Birthday Salute," and the complete recording on two CDs reveals a rich tribute to the master Broadway composer that features a wide range of his finest songs. The cast includes Lisa Vroman, the longtime Christine in the San Francisco "The Phantom of the Opera" production, and Guy Haines. The singing is top drawer, the arrangements are winsome and are true to the sound Sondheim wanted in the shows the songs come from. The songs are arranged into themed medleys that group interesting collections of the composer's hits. There are songs from his big hits but also a nice collection of lesser-known tunes from his less successful creations and some of his early songs that have never been heard on Broadway. For Sondheim lovers, the tribute is a wonderful trip through the master's rich collection of songs.
Grade: B
"SHOPPING! THE MUSICAL"
San Francisco Cast
AWAT Productions (No Number)
A San Francisco musical revue, "Shopping! The Musical," is a parody of shopping and I thought it would be a clever and pointed jab at those of us who love to spend hours in malls. Even the list of songs - "Nordstrom," "Hardware Heaven," "Costco," "What Am I Doing Here?" among the 22 selections - seemed promising. But the show is ordinary and the humor in each of the songs is strained and awkward and often not particularly funny. The melodies that accompany the parodies are really ordinary and far from memorable. The performances of the four performers and pianist are nothing special either. I listened a couple of times hoping I had missed something but got very little enjoyment out of "Shopping! The Musical."
Grade: D
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Phoenix, AZ (September 10, 2006) This week is catch up time. All those wonderful old shows that were released on CD have all arrived and I will review those along with a few new shows that have arrived recently as well:
"THREE WISHES FOR JAMIE"
Original Broadway Cast
DRG Records (19086)
"Three Wishes for Jamie" had a troubled initial debut in Los Angeles and then closed for a year to be re-tooled by Abe Burrows but his efforts didn't make the show a success. It had a delightful score by Ralph Blane and a superlative cast headed by John Raitt in his prime and Anne Jeffreys. But the far-fetched story about an Irish dreamer who is granted three wishes by a fairy queen and, even against all logical odds, clings to his belief that the wishes will come to pass. The score sails along and is beautifully sung. This show is a '50s treasure musically but it never became a success and will probably never be heard from again.
Grade: B
"CABIN IN THE SKY"
Original 1964 Revival Cast
DRG Records (19088)
"Cabin in the Sky" is an early African-American musical and it boasts a melodic score by Vernon Duke and a stellar cast who sing the songs glowingly. The show has the richly popular song, "Taking a Chance on Love" and tells the story of relationships in impoverished locales. The revival cast has a stirring and biting push that gives the score its due.
Grade: A
"KISMET"
Studio Cast
DRG Records (19094)
The studio cast version of "Kismet" starred Gordon MacRae and opera star Dorothy Kirsten. The pair is featured in almost all the fabulous songs that were adapted from Alexander Borodin musical themes. The singing is proficient and perfect but uninspiring and just singing these richly varied and lushly melodic songs seems like a waste. The question I have is why bother wasting time and money on this ordinary recording of this great score when other much richer versions including the original Broadway cast recording exist?
Grade: C
"SALVATION"
Original Broadway Cast
DRG Records (19087)
Salvation" is an early rock musical of questionable importance or value. It was about music and it slapped organized religion. The score is loud and obnoxious and has no particular value. The cast does the singing chores with little appeal or sparkle and the entire effort is an interesting look at early rock musicals but it has little other worth today. I wonder how DRG Records can justify remastering and re-issuing these old shows of dubious value. The costs must be outweighed by the few copies that will be sold to us musical theater nuts and few others.
Grade: D
"THE BROADWAY MUSICALS OF 1963"
Town Hall Broadway By The Year Cast
Bayview (RNBW036)
The year 1963 had only one "hit" musical, "Oliver," but the new Broadway By The Year that is devoted to that year is filled with great songs from shows with superlative scores. Who can't love an album that features songs from such shows as "110 in the Shade," "She Loves Me," "The Girl Who Came To Supper," "Tovarich" and the hit show as well. The performances are all exquisite and there's no way to pick memorable songs or the best when such wonderful contemporary musical theater artists as Nancy Anderson, Stephen Bogardus, Liz Callaway, George Dvorsky, Euan Morton, and Julia Murney lend their fine voices to the wonderful collection of songs. Scott Siegel's comments are filled with interesting insights to the year and the shows. Another in this series wonderful tributes to bygone years of musical theater history.
Grade: A
"[title of show]"
Original Off-Broadway Cast
Ghostlight Records (7915584414-2)
"[title of show]" is a show that parodies musical theater but without the wonderful insightful pithiness of "Forbidden Broadway" classics. The music is not lifted from shows being spoofed as is the case with "Forbidden Broadway" and the songs are ordinary although some of the lyrics are catchy and pointed. The show was quite popular off-Broadway and moves to Broadway this season to resume its run. It will be interesting to see if this small, pleasant little spoof can make it on Broadway.
Grade: C
"EVITA"
2006 London Cast
Really Useful Records (9855975)
There are few really unique or original interpretations of "Evita." Revivals are always some variation of the original production with the performers recreating the original cast performances. Such is the case with the ordinary and uninteresting new London cast recording of the show. None of the cast stands out and the music sounds like it always has except here and there where a slightly new orchestration takes a slightly different sound. The recording is on just one CD and although it is long and almost complete there's nothing to recommend adding this new version to your library if you already have the original and still definitive version.
Grade: C
"THE KING AND I"
Music Theater of Lincoln Center Cast
Masterworks Broadway (82876-88400-2)
For several years, Richard Rodgers produced large and elaborate revivals of Broadway hits at Lincoln Center. Many of his own shows found their way into his offerings and many of the productions starred has-been stars past their prime or young and emerging musical theater artists. Such is the case with "The King and I." Opera star Rise Stevens essays Anna and her voice has neither the power nor the luster it had when she sang operatic repertory at the Met. She brings nothing special to Anna. Darren McGavin was an excellent King when I saw him in San Francisco long before this New York revival was mounted. He gave the King an interesting characterization that wasn't an exact copy of Yul Brynner's original. This release includes "The Small House of Uncle Thomas" ballet music and "Western People Funny," a song often excised from recordings. The supporting cast is competent but far from brilliant and the cheapness of producers makes this one of the few "The King and I" recordings without the kids that add so much interest to the show. Interpretations are superficial and this is far from the best "The King and I" recording.
Grade: C
"MY FAIR LADY"
Original 20th Anniversary Cast
Masterworks Broadway (82876-88392-2)
It seems like the classic musical, "My Fair Lady," is always done with a pretty traditional and standard interpretation. Such was the case with the 20th anniversary version that starred Ian Richardson, Christine Andreas, George Rose and Robert Coote. Richardson, in particular, gives none of the depth of interpretation that Rex Harrison did in the original nor that others have instilled in other revivals. Richardson also rushes some of the tempos and has less than perfect diction, an interesting criticism considering Henry Higgins careful teaching of English. Andreas has a welcome young sound and she sings with purity and excellent diction especially as the transformed Cockney guttersnipe. Rose and Coote played their respective roles repeatedly and do nothing special to make neither Col. Pickering nor Doolittle stand out. You can't go wrong with the original cast version still readily available so I don't recommend this long out-of-print version.
Grade: C
"SOUTH PACIFIC"
Music Theater of Lincoln Center Cast
Masterworks Broadway (82876-88393-2)
This Music Theater of Lincoln Center "South Pacific" revival is pretty standard fare with Florence Henderson sounding too young and inexperienced to give Nurse Nellie much depth or punch. Giorgio Tozzi's Emile is solidly sung although not as well as he did in the movie soundtrack when he sang voiceovers for the movie star that played the role. Of the supporting cast, Irene Byatt gives her Bloody Mary some depth and brilliance but Justin McDonough's Lt. Cable is nothing special. This is far from the best recorded "South Pacific" and it lacks any of the new interpretations that have given this show such a vibrant rebirth in recent years.
Grade: C
"CANDIDE"
1974 Broadway Cast Revival
Masterworks Broadway (82876-88391-2)
Of the four Masterworks Broadway releases, this 1974 Broadway revival cast of "Candide" is best. It shows some new interpretations of the Leonard Bernstein score and even the recording suggests the distinctive new Harold Prince staging ideas. The music is complex and lovely and the cast is filled with able singers who do it justice. The release is on two CDs that preserve most of the massive score. This recording is has been long out-of-print and it is a welcome addition to the many fine recordings available for "Candide." Indeed, this score is brilliant and only seems to improve with time and exposure.
Grade: A
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Phoenix, AZ (August 19, 2006) - The first three releases of old shows on CD for the first time has occurred from DRG Records with the studio cast "Kismet," plus the original Broadway cast recordings of "Salvation" and "Three Wishes for Jamie." Several Sony releases follow at the end of the month. I haven't received my copies of the new DRG releases but hope to review them in my next update.
Now to reviews of new show music releases:
"GREY GARDENS"
Original Playwrights Horizons Cast
PS Classics (PS-642)
The long awaited cast recording of "Grey Gardens" is now available from PS Classics. The album was made during the show's world premiere spring engagement at the Playwrights Horizon. It was a huge hit and will reopen in October on Broadway. The show stars Christine Ebersole in a shatteringly detailed and wonderfully fascinating performance in two central roles. The show is based on the now legendary 1975 documentary of the same title. It concerns Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis' aunt and cousin. The pair was originally part of the pre-"Camelot" social register in and around New York but later became notorious recluses living in a rundown mansion in East Hampton. The documentary and musical focus on the two fascinating characters, Edith Bouvier Beale, and her adult daughter, Edie. The show is set in two periods - 1941 and 1973 - showing the family's extremes at the height of their popularity and as reclusive ne'er-do-wells. Ebersole plays Edith initially and Edie at the end. The show, with book by Doug Wright, music by Scott Frankel and lyrics by Michael Korie, marvelously captures the two distinct historical periods in the sound of the music and in the wonderful lyrics. And then there's Ebersole's triumphant performance, which shows the characters extremes of style and living in a glowingly remarkable way that comes through brilliantly on the recording. It's easy to see why this show has meet with such stellar reviews and why the wise producers have decided to take the Broadway plunge with it. What a marvelously expressive show that is captured so winningly in this richly rewarding cast album.
Grade: A
"BLUES IN THE NIGHT"
ANN HAMPTON CALLAWAY
Telarc Jazz (CD-83641)
Ann Hampton Callaway is a wonderfully expressive jazz singer with a mellow, luxurious voice. She has a wonderful way with a song. Her new CD, "Blues in the Night," is an enjoyably easy listen with a rich selection of jazzy song hits. The recording features Callaway and highlights drummer Sherrie Maricle, the backup band, Diva Jazz Orchestra, and the songs feature wonderful Tommy Newsome arrangements. I can't pick any one selection as a highlight as they are all so perfect with Callaway. This great artist has been scarce on Broadway but the shows she's done have all been winners. Until her triumphant return to the great White Way, her new album is a winner that reminds of how great a way with a song she has.
Grade: A
"JEKYLL & HYDE - THE CONCERT"
Studio Cast
Koch Records (KACD 0610)
Frank Wildhorn's "Jekyll & Hyde" made a big splash on Broadway and revealed the composer as a rich songwriter who could spin wonderfully melodic song hits. The original cast was superb and set the high standard for the show. The new concert recording is a sad and pitiful version that lacks the strong singing of the original cast and leaves the songs without the richness they should have. The new orchestrations are raucous and loud taking away the music subtle beauty. Rob Evans does nothing with the dual central character and never lets us see the torture his two personas create. His singing lacks the stirring stature this role demands. Neither of the female leads, Kate Shindle as Lucy and Brandi Burkhardt as Emma, do anything special with their roles or the many song hits they are assigned. I listened to this new recording with much anticipation but after the initial spin I never want to listen to it again.
Grade: F
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Phoenix, AZ (August 6, 2006) Nothing new to report on show music albums this update. We all anxiously await the many new releases of old musical recordings that will appear on CD for the first time this month. Check the last update for all the titles and the scheduled release dates. It will be a memorable month for old show music recordings.
Now to reviews of new show music releases.
"BERNARDA ALBA"
Original Broadway Cast
Ghostlight Records (7915584412-2)
Turning the dark Federico Garcia Lorca play "The House of Bernarda Alba" into a musical was quite the undertaking but composer/lyricist Michael John LaChiusa tackled the challenge with exemplary results. His version, "Bernarda Alba," opened to glowing critical raves in March at Lincoln Center. Now that production's recording has been released for those of us who didn't get a chance to see the production. It's a difficult and complex play and the musical demands attention. The tunes are not your typical Broadway show music hits. The show grows on you as you listen to it repeatedly and hear the deliberate and fascinating takes on making the play's vivid story even more powerful with the addition of the excellent score. The lyrics are telling. The story is set in the 1930s Spain where a matriarch isolates herself and her five adult daughters from the outside world as she mourns her second husband's death. Her dictate keeps the women from experiencing any male companionship or love and the five daughters are a frustrated and perplexing group. The complex score allows expansion of each character's uniqueness and the way each handles their mother's ridiculous lifestyle. LaChiusa is one of our contemporary theater's most gifted musical theater writers and he amazes constantly with each new score he delivers and usually within rich dramatic vehicles. "Bernarda Alba" is quite an artistic accomplishment but it is easy to see why the show wasn't overly popular. It challenges a musical theater audience to think and follow a richly detailed plot.
Grade: A
"THE VERY BEST OF MUSICALS VOL. 1"
Universal/Sony&BMG (DC8976/982 795-5)
"THE VERY BEST OF MUSICALS VOL. 2"
Universal/Sony&BMG (SB30051C/520524 2)
"THE VERY BEST OF MUSICALS VOL. 3"
Universal/Sony&BMG (DC9184)
These three well produced and nice looking CD sets contain two CDs each and are a pretty standard and dull collection of popular show music. There's little of interest here and the same shows are represented repeatedly in the sets instead of introducing songs from other shows. There's no theme attached to any of the collections and they all seem random gatherings that took little thought. Show music lovers won't be impressed and trying to find song titles and the shows they come from is a snap requiring little real knowledge. These CDs are available domestically but were really released for the Korean market. That audience has been seeing more and more recent Broadway musical hits and perhaps that's why the selections are so standard with nothing of real interest. Bottom line here is that these expensive imports have little relevance to American show music lovers.
Grade: D
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Phoenix, AZ (July 16, 2006) - August will bring the release of several significant archival cast recordings and many of those announced have not been available previously in the CD format.
DRG Records starts the busy month on August 8 with the 1964 Broadway cast recording of "Cabin in the Sky." On August 22, DRG continues with three more shows including the 1964 studio cast "Kismet," the 1969 Broadway cast "Salvation," and the 1952 Broadway "Three Wishes For Jamie," starring John Raitt and Anne Jeffreys.
August 22 also is the release date for the original off-Broadway cast sensation "Grey Gardens" that is set to move to Broadway soon.
Sony/BMG releases four show recordings on August 29. The 1974 Broadway revival of "Candide" will be available for the first time on two CDs. The 1964 Music Theater of Lincoln Center production of "The King and I," starring Rise Stevens and Darren McGavin, will include the previously unreleased "Western People Funny" song. Columbia's 1976 Broadway revival of "My Fair Lady" starring Ian Richardson and Christine Andreas comes out as does the 1967 Music Theater of Lincoln Center revival of "South Pacific," starring Florence Henderson and Giorgio Tozzi. It's quite a month for old show releases.
Now to reviews of new show music releases:
"TARZAN"
Original Broadway Cast
Walt Disney Records (61541-7)
As all Broadway followers know, the new Disney Broadway musical "Tarzan" was panned by critics and audience attention has been limited although the show is doing acceptable business. People are amazed at how unaffecting this big extravaganza is at making the well-known story into a viable musical. The cast recording reveals a show loaded with Phil Collins pop tunes that give little of the show's atmosphere or setting. It's Collins' first musical and he deserves praise for trying a new place to showcase his catchy songs. It's just that a Broadway musical score should reflect the show's action and the plot. Here most of the songs sound like pop tunes and many of them have melodic similarities to past Broadway shows. I heard "West Side Story," "My Fair Lady" and other shows throughout the score. A couple of the songs are lovely. The best one that weaves throughout is "Two Worlds." The cast gives its all to their characters. Especially good are Shuler Henlsey who plays Kerchak, the ape who raised Tarzan, Merle Dandridge as his ape-mother, Kala, and Josh Strickland as an imposing Tarzan. Jenn Gambarese is a romantic Jane, Tarzan's love interest. Collins did lift five of the musical's songs from his earlier work on Disney's 1999 film of the story. I wish "Tarzan" was a runaway hit but based on the cast album, the show parallels conventional musicals without making a unique sound or feel for the well-worn story.
Grade: C
"GEORGE M. COHAN TONIGHT!"
Irish Repertory Theatre Cast
Ghostlight Records (791558441024)
What a delight "George M. Cohan Tonight!" is in the stellar Irish Repertory Theatre production starring Jon Peterson as that bigger-than-life showman extraordinary. The show contains all of Cohan's big, well-known hits and Peterson delivers them with a sparkle and panache that turns him into the character he is playing. Through the familiar songs, Cohan's life is traced and explained. It's a masterful and fascinating portrait. What a treat it would be to have Peterson tour the country in this delightful show. The cast album is a joy.
Grade: A
"THE PAJAMA GAME"
Original London Cast
Sepia Records (SEPIA 1072)
Today, all Broadway musical replacement casts are hired to sound and look just like the original performers. There's not much reason to go back to a Broadway show unless you want to hear a faint carbon of the original version or if you missed the original and usually the best cast. London is no exception to this duplication trend but years ago exact duplications of Broadway wasn't the primary goal in a London version. "The Pajama Game" sounds different than the original Broadway cast version and there's different emphasis on parts of several songs. All in all, this London cast recording sounds solid if not dynamic. The cast re-release includes several bonus tracks that feature "The Pajama Game's" original London cast. There's nothing that interesting or unusual on these bonus tracks and the old version and dreadful sound system here distorts the cast recording portions of the show and the great songs that populate this chestnut score. This is not an inspired cast recording.
Grade: C
"HALF A SIXPENCE"
Original London Cast
Must Close Saturday Records (MCSR 3035)
"Half A Sixpence" is an underrated show charmer and even though the London cast recording sounds significantly different than the Broadway version, the singers are still stirring with the pop-pleasant song stylings. The show is a lovely romantic tale about a shoemaker who falls in love with a more sophisticated and wealthy lady. The romance goes through its ups and downs throughout the show that is filled with fine if undistinguished songs that are very pleasant and easy to enjoy. The original show was a refreshing delight and it's good to have this solid London cast interpretation available along with the original Broadway cast recording.
Grade: B
20TH CENTURY MASTERS "THE BEST OF BROADWAY"
Hip-O Records/Decca Broadway (B00069-02)
20TH CENTURY MASTERS "THE BEST OF MUSICALS"
Universal Music (0249836291)
There have been a bunch of recent recordings that regurgitate old show song hits and package them in inviting ways to make money on them. Two recent releases, "The Best of Broadway" and "The Best of Musicals," do this and both rather badly. They pick hackneyed song hits with no thematic relationships to the other songs selected. For show music lovers, these CDs are pleasant but true show music lovers already have these cast recordings and in most cases, there are other songs from each show that are as good or better than those selected for these two CDs. The credits are weak and, in the case of "The Best of Musicals," the songs aren't even credited to the show's that introduced these hit songs.
Grade: D
COMPOSERS ON BROADWAY
Irving Berlin (B0006709-02)
Leonard Bernstein (B0006710-02)
George Gershwin (B0006708-02)
Cole Porter (B0006707-02)
Rodgers & Hammerstein (B0006711-02)
Rodgers & Hart (B0006712-02)
Decca Broadway
The Composers on Broadway series boasts six CDs devoted to successful composer/lyricists. The sets include some unusual selections from the original Broadway cast recordings that aren't readily available. Those selections that don't come from the original cast recordings are often weirdly arranged pop versions of popular Broadway songs sung by big pop stars of the era when Broadway songs all hit the pop music charts. Again, these CDs are an enjoyable listen but they are designed to cash in on old recordings from the vaults of Decca Broadway. All the albums are skimpy and fill only about half the available time on a CD. Since these are old songs why not fill the CDs to capacity by including old treasures that show music lovers would love. All the composer/lyricist teams have far more songs worth including in these celebrations of their work. True show music aficionados shouldn't be buying these potpourris of medleys because true collectors will have the entire cast albums. These CDs are a good excuse to cash in on old songs. There's little contemporary show music songs here and many of the selections are not the best versions of the show's original cast.
Grades: D
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Phoenix, AZ (June 30, 2006) - The summer is usually slow and most of the new Broadway shows have issued CDs. "Tarzan" is the most recent release with "Grey Gardens" and "[title of show]" due out later this summer. Now to reviews of recent show music releases:
"THE DROWSY CHAPERONE"
Original Broadway Cast
Ghostlight (7915584411-2)
I saw "The Drowsy Chaperone" in Los Angeles during its pre-Broadway tryout. I thought the silly show a real waste and that's from a musical theater lover who should have been enamored of the Canadian tribute to old-fashioned musicals. Something miraculous must have happened after Los Angeles and before this show became the darling of Broadway where it garnered rave reviews and is selling tickets quickly. On the Tony Awards telecast, the featured number looked bright and breezy and star Sutton Foster dazzled. The Tony number looked much better than in the Los Angeles run and the cast looked sharper and more dynamic. The score is a fetching one that is reminiscent of old tuneful shows and seeped in nostalgia. It's hard not to fall in love with the show and the CD certainly is an effective marketing tool for the show.
Grade: B
"BARBARA COOK AT THE MET"
DRG Records (91497)
Barbara Cook dazzles in her Metropolitan Opera House debut performance and the live recording is a wonderful tribute to the 77-year-old singer and her wonderful way with a song. She's joined by special guests Audra McDonald and Josh Groban and both sing glowingly both in solos and in duets with Cook. It's interesting that Cook's show also had a guest appearance by Elaine Stritch that isn't acknowledged in the written material on the show and there are no tracks representing Stritch's contributions. Cook sings many old familiar songs plus a smattering of new tunes and a wonderful representation of Stephen Sondheim, a composer Cook sings gloriously. If there's a stellar moment on the CD, it's Cook's touchingly tender rendition of "Losing My Mind" from "Follies," a song Cook has practically trademarked. But there isn't a dud in the entire CD and this fine CD just proves how continually amazing this longtime musical theater and cabaret star always is. It's hard not to have Wally Harper as musical director since his untimely death, but Cook's new musical accompanist, Eric Stern, and his winsome band, do Cook justice with stellar arrangements on the many fine songs Cook sings so wondrously.
Grade: A
"THE WEDDING SINGER"
Original Broadway Cast
Masterworks Broadway (82876-82095-2)
"The Wedding Singer" didn't do well in this year's Tony Awards and the cast CD is peppy and lively but the score is repetitious and bland. Set in the mid-'80s, the music by Matthew Sklar and Chad Beguelin is derivative and reflective of the times without showing any dazzling creativity or flair. The cast sounds peppy and lively but does nothing special with the songs and neither does Irwin Fisch's orchestrations make the music soar. The silly story sounds inane as described in the CD booklet and that it's a happily ever after ending makes the show sterile. There's nothing special in "The Wedding Singer." It isn't destined to last long on Broadway.
Grade: C
"SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE"
2006 London Cast
PS Classics (PS-640)
One of the most stirring and emotionally moving moments in any Stephen Sondheim show occurs at the end of Act One in "Sunday in the Park with George." It is a stunning visual moment when the cast of this musical about painter George Seurat recreates the artist's title painting on stage. It is a stirring visual and musical moment and it takes the audience's breath away. The new London production of the Sondheim work splashed on the scene in 2005 and dazzled theatergoers. Now comes the cast recording of that defining version and it's a masterpiece. With two discs, it preserves almost the entire score and the cast is perfection. Perhaps there are times when one wishes for the original Broadway cast, but this version is staunchly original and definitive. This revival recording just reminds us of this show's brilliance and it's a shame it isn't redone. Perhaps this version will come to Broadway. Until then, this recording is a wonderful addition to Sondheim's legacy.
Grade: A
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Phoenix, AZ (May 25, 2006) - The new Broadway musical "Lestat" by Elton John and Bernie Taupin will record an original cast album May 22 for release in July on Mercury Records.
Now to reviews of new show music releases.
"THE PAJAMA GAME"
New Broadway Cast
Columbia Records (CK 99035)
"The Pajama Game" revival arrived in New York to excellent reviews and sold-out crowds. The show has proved so successful that it will reopen on Broadway this fall but with a different cast. The revival has been recorded by Columbia and is now available in a two disc set with "Songs from 'Thou Shalt Not,'" a show written by "Pajama Game" star Harry Connick, Jr. "The Pajama Game" is a delightful show about labor relations at a factory but it really focuses on a typical musical comedy romance between supervisor Sid Sorokin (Harry Connick, Jr.) and union organizer Babe Williams (Kelli O'Hara). The show is loaded with several hit songs including "Hey There," "Once A Year Day," "Steam Heat," and "Hernando's Hideaway." The new version has a lot of pep and sparkle but doesn't sound much different than the original Broadway cast recording except that several of Connick's songs have been re-orchestrated to sound a bit more contemporary. This cast is sharp; the recording is long and includes much music not previously available on other "Pajama Game" recordings.
Grade: A
"THE BROADWAY MUSICALS OF 1949"
Town Hall Cast
Bayview Recording Company (RNBW035)
Another in Scott Siegel's retrospective series on Broadway By The Year has been released. "The Broadway Musicals of 1949" boasts the usual top flight cast singing song hits from familiar and not so familiar songs from that year's crop of new Broadway musicals. 1949 was a winning year that included "South Pacific," "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes," "Miss Liberty," "Lost in the Stars," and "Texas Lil' Darlin'." But the year also included such forgotten shows as "Along Fifth Avenue," "Regina," "Touch and Go," and "All For Love." It's the unfamiliar show songs that prove most interesting and the representative tunes are all good. Of the popular shows, Martin Vidnovic and Karen Ziemba do several wonderful "South Pacific" tunes, and Cady Huffman does some sexy work with "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes" songs. Especially nice from the less familiar show songs is "What Will It Be?" from "Regina" sung lovingly by Marla Schaffel. Another interesting collection with some nice commentary about the year makes "The Broadway Musicals of 1949" another treasured entry in this popular series.
Grade: A
"PORGY AND BESS"
Studio Cast
DRG Records (8501)
For some strange and unexplained reason, DRG Records has re-released the studio cast recording of "Porgy and Bess" featuring Diahann Carroll. This odd and short album features vocals by Carroll in all the songs and the arrangements are jazzy and sound nothing like the original orchestrations. There's nothing worthy on this recording and it is one best left out of any collection.
Grade: D
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Phoenix, AZ (May 6, 2006) - After all the good news about new and recovered cast album conversions and new show music labels last time, this update is quiet. As the summer dawns here in Phoenix, the hot weather has arrived.
The only major bit of news is the release of a new four DVD set of "Broadway's Lost Treasures Collection." The set contains the previously released three volumes of Tony Awards segments devoted to musicals. The set also contains a new fourth disc, "The Best of the Tony Awards: The Plays." This disc is not available singly and has several great segments from great Broadway plays.
Although not show music related, there's also a wonderful new DVD set of Tennessee Williams plays. Called "Tennessee Williams Film Collection," the set includes eight discs with the film versions of "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof," "A Streetcar Named Desire," "Baby Doll," "The Roman Spring of Mrs. Stone," "The Night of the Iguana" and "Sweet Bird of Youth." In addition, there's "Tennessee Williams' South," a feature about the playwright's life. Several of these Williams' films have not been previously available on DVD and both "A Streetcar Named Desire" and "Cat on A Hot Tin Roof" are special deluxe editions with loads of extras. It's a wonderful set. Now, all I have to do is find the time to watch all these wonderful movie versions of these Williams masterpieces.
Now to reviews of new show music releases.
"THE GREAT WALTZ"
Original Los Angeles/San Francisco Cast
DRG Records (19084)
With the exception of "The Great Waltz," all the Capitol cast albums have been previously released in re-mastered CDs. Now, from DRG Records, comes that one show. The recording was made of the Los Angeles/San Francisco Civic Light Opera's 1965 production. It was an exquisite staging that I was lucky enough to see and will never forget. It was a stunningly beautiful show with Oliver Smith sets and Freddy Wittop costumes that were dazzling. The cast was a collection of the greatest opera singers of the day, Giorgio Tozzi, Jean Fenn and Frank Porretta. Anita Gillette played the ingénue and master stage comedian Leo Fuchs added comic delight. We all must thank DRG for bringing this lost treasure back. The music is all Johann Strauss Sr. and Jr. waltzes and the score is played by an unusually large theater orchestra. The singing is lovely and stirring. Playing this cast album brought back memories of the production and even though the story was silly about the rivalry between the talented father and son, the magnificence of the production was overwhelming. The finale alone was worth the price of admission. The entire orchestra was brought on stage to sit at the back of a huge mirrored Viennese ballroom. Eight gigantic chandeliers decorated the set and the gorgeous costumes made the visual effect stunning. To the strains of "The Blue Danube," the fight between father and son was magically resolved and the strains of the waltz brought down the curtain on the loveliest scene imaginable. To hear this cast album again is a special thrill and anyone who loves Strauss waltzes should purchase this superb recording. DRG had to recall the initial release due to a skipping problem on one track. They are working hard to get the corrected discs out.
Grade: A
"THE KING AND I"
Original Broadway/London/Studio Casts
Naxos Musicals (8.120792)
"The King and I" is another of my favorite shows. The starchy but respectful relationship between English governess, Anna, and the King of Siam is dramatically winning. The score is one of Rodgers and Hammerstein's best, and the exquisite ballet, "The Small House of Uncle Thomas," is a masterpiece. Naxos Musicals has released a single disc that includes the entire original Broadway cast version, four tracks from the original London cast, some fine selections from a 1951 studio recording, and concluding with a Richard Rodgers conducted version of "March of the Siamese Children" featuring the New York Philharmonic Orchestra. This one disc compilation of this great show is another winner in this fine Naxos series. The booklet contains much information about the show.
Grade: A
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Phoenix, AZ (April 22, 2006) - Some big news this update for show music lovers.
Masterworks Broadway is a new label formed by the combination of Sony Classical/Columbia Masterworks and RCA Victor. They will release their first Broadway cast recording with the new musical, "The Wedding Singer," on June 6.
Playbill, the publisher of Broadway programs, has joined forces with Sony BMG's Legacy and Sony BMG Masterworks to create Playbill Records. The first release of this new label will be Brian Stokes Mitchell's solo CD June 6. Future plans for the label include releases in three categories. The first group is of original music like the Stokes CD. The second will be great compilations under the heading of Playbill Editors' Choice. With the vast catalogue of Sony, Columbia, and RCA Victor, these recordings can draw on a huge collection of Broadway's best show music. The final category is re-releasing remixed and re-mastered Broadway recordings.
The new Broadway musical "The Drowsy Chaperone" will be recorded by Ghostlight Records for release June 13.
The successful Broadway revival of "The Pajama Game" starring Harry Connick, Jr. will be released by Columbia Records as part of a two-CD set titled "Harry on Broadway, Act I." Along with a complete CD of the new revival, there will be a CD of songs from the Connick musical "Thou Shalt Not," sung by Connick and "Pajama Game" co-star Kelli O'Hara.
Polydor plans to release the new London cast recording of "Evita" on June 19. The web site for "Tarzan" reveals that the cast recording for the new Disney show will be in stores in June although the label has not been announced.
After a long dry spell, it appears that show music is again taking focus with record companies and in the next few years, we might see many long out-of-print shows again available along with most new shows that hit Broadway.
Now to reviews of new show music releases.
"SOUTH PACIFIC"
2005 Carnegie Hall Concert Cast
Decca Broadway (80006462-02)
New recordings of old shows often pale when compared to original cast recordings but, on occasion, a re-thought version with a special cast can equal or better the original cast's recording. Such is the case with the brilliant new "South Pacific" that was recorded live during the 2005 Carnegie Hall concert. Starring an inspired cast that features a near-definitive Nellie from Reba McEntire, a stunningly sung Emile from Brian Stokes Mitchell, a funny comic take on Luther Billis from Alec Baldwin, an inspired Bloody Mary by Lillias White, and a beautifully voiced Lt. Cable by Jason Danieley, this recording gives the classic Rodgers and Hammerstein show new depth and dimension. The 70-minute plus recording is very complete and listening to the concert cast will make you want to see this cast in a fully staged version of the show. The score is lovely, of course, and it is played by a lush musical ensemble under the sure and steady conducting of Paul Gemignani. I wasn't able to play any other Broadway show album for days after receiving my review copy of this disc. This is the "South Pacific" that Rodgers and Hammerstein intended. Never has the show sounded so compelling and beautiful. This version will be shown on PBS on April 26. My guess is seeing these artists sing these songs will give the stunning recording even more meaning.
Grade: A
"THE LADY WITH THE TORCH"
PATTI LUPONE
Ghostlight Records (7915583303-2)
Patti LuPone is one of our current Broadway superstars and her new solo album, "The Lady with the Torch," shows off her voice gloriously. The selections include sultry pop tunes and several musical comedy classics and most of the material is new for LuPone. She has a nice way with a song and weaves each song's theme and story with sincerity and her lovely singing. It's hard to pick any special hits from the 14 tracks as all are wonderful and the CD is a rich jewel. Patti LuPone is a great Broadway singer and her new album tells listeners why she is so popular.
Grade: A
"THE BOYS FROM SYRACUSE"
1963 Revival Cast
DRG Records (19085)
Rodgers and Hart shows were some of the most sophisticated of their time and "The Boys from Syracuse" uses a Shakespearean play brilliantly in a fun show with a memorable score. The 1963 revival cast is a playful one and DRG has made this long unavailable cast recording again a reality. The cast sounds great, the songs sell themselves and this is a solid cast recording of a great show.
Grade: A
"CHARLES STROUSE/ARTHUR SCHWARTZ/STEPHEN SCHWARTZ"
16TH Annual S.T.A.G.E. Cast
Kritzerland (KR 20010-6)
The annual Los Angeles S.T.A.G.E. concert features the best talent in a loving tribute to a great Broadway composer. The 16th annual concert takes on a bit bigger tribute by combining the best songs of three composers whose last names all start with S. Charles Strouse's shows are combined with Arthur Schwartz and Stephen Schwartz. There are nice songs representing each composer and some of the numbers combine tunes of more than one of these prolific composers. Strouse represents the Golden Age of musical comedy, while Arthur Schwartz goes a bit farther back, and Stephen Schwartz is the most contemporary of the group. Each composer's biggest shows are represented and there is a nice turn by Bonnie Franklin recreating her original performance of "Applause." This annual concert is always a delightful listen and the latest is no exception.
Grade: A
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Phoenix, AZ (April 9, 2006) - Lots of news about cast recordings this update.
Decca Broadway will release the Carnegie Hall concert of "South Pacific" that starred Reba McEntire and Brian Stokes Mitchell on April 18 just before the PBS telecast airs on April 26. Since McEntire's huge Broadway success in "Annie Get Your Gun," it will be wonderful to see and hear her in another classic Broadway musical role. Like most PBS specials, this version may also be available on DVD.
Ghostlight Records just recorded the acclaimed Lincoln Center Theater's production of Michael John LaChiusa's new musical, "Bernarda Alba," based on Federico Garcia Lorca's famous work.
"Barbara Cook at the Met" will be released June 6 by DRG Records. The delayed 20-track recording of Cook's January Metropolitan Opera House debut concert appearance also features guest stars Josh Groban and Audra McDonald but apparently doesn't feature Cook's duet with additional guest star Elaine Stritch. New York reviews for the concert were mixed but it's always special to add another Cook recording to the musical theater library.
Finally, Karen Akers will release a new solo CD in May although advance copies will be available during her Oak Room engagement to perform the songs of Kander and Ebb from April 4-May 13. This will be Akers ninth solo recording. The release will be on DRG Records but the specific release date hasn't been announced.
Now to reviews of new show music releases.
"JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT"
2006 Revival Cast
Really Useful Records (314 516 754-2)
When the Broadway in Arizona series here announced that "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" would be part of the current season, the news was greeted with little enthusiasm here as well as in other cities nationwide that will showcase the touring revival production. The show has been included in these Broadway seasons many times and local productions of made people tire of seeing this early Andrew Lloyd Webber show. But the recent cast recording of the revival is quite something. Patrick Cassidy is dynamic in the lead role and the energetic cast and fine singing make this a winsome version of the show. If the show is as good in person as it is on the recording, the many people who are giving away their tickets may be disappointed. It's certainly one of the finest and most complete of the many "Joseph" cast albums.
Grade: A
"BUSH IS BAD"
Original Off-Broadway Cast
Original Cast Records (OC-6160)
It's rare that a musical is as topical as "Bush Is Bad," a currently running off-Broadway roast of our president. The show capitalizes on all the faux pas' of this presidency and uses current news and Bush's reaction to those events to create a hysterical humor piece. The cast is crisp and sharp. The music is catchy and cute if not distinguished. Writer Joshua Rosenblum finds funny stuff everywhere.
Grade: B
"PAINT YOUR WAGON"/"CAN-CAN"
Original Broadway Casts
Sanctuary Records/Living Era (CD AJA 5600)
Combining two old Broadway shows on a single CD is a new phenomenon that makes sense. Since shows that were originally recorded to fit on the old long-playing records are pretty limited to about 45 minutes of play time, putting two shows on a CD works. Where there is additional archive material though, this new concept doesn't have extra room for the additional tracks. The cleanup of the original tapes on these Living Era releases isn't anything pristine or special but for collectors who can't get recordings of old shows, this is a nice trend. The latest release combines 1951's "Paint Your Wagon" with 1953's "Can-Can." There doesn't seem to be much that relates the two shows but both are tuneful and typical of the Broadway musicals Golden Era.
Grade: B
LESLEY GARRETT SINGS "THE BEST OF THE MUSICALS"
Demon Music Group (MCCD582)
Lesley Garrett is a major British opera star and her new solo album, "Lesley Garrett Sings the Best of the Musicals" is well sung and is composed of an interesting collection of popular and familiar musical theater song hits with several lesser known songs from unusual old musicals. The strange thing about the release is that the accompanying booklet and album cover nowhere feature a picture of the artist. Her selections include interesting tunes from "The Enchantress," "Spring Is Here," "Gipsy Love," "Wuthering Heights," "Perchance To Dream," and "Bitter Sweet" along with more recognizable hits from such contemporary classic shows as "The Phantom of the Opera," "Cats," and "Porgy and Bess." On all 18 tracks, Garrett performs strongly and this is a pleasant and rewarding listen to musical theater history.
Grade: B
"SEE WHAT I WANNA SEE"
Original Off-Broadway Cast
Ghostlight (7915584408-2)
playing. Although many of his shows don't have lengthy runs, most are critically acclaimed and push musical theater in new and innovative directions. His current show, "Bernarda Alba," is playing at Lincoln Center now. His last show, "See What I Wanna See," played at the Public Theatre in the fall of 2005. It moves from a mysterious Central Park murder to the rebirth of New York City while chronicling stories of faith, loss, and Redemption. The score is fascinating although not always easy and pleasant to listen hear. The songs tell the story with amazing insight and the melodies reflect the thoughts of the person with brilliant clarity. "See What I Wanna See" is a challenging new show and it's exciting to have a composer like LaChiusa to push the art form and to use it to say different and interesting things.
Grade: A-
"SONGS FROM AN UNMADE BED"
World Premiere Recording Cast
Ghostlight (7915584409-2)
"Songs From an Unmade Bed" features Mark Campbell's lyrics to the music of 18 eclectic artists. The cast recording features Michael Winther. It is an innovative musical song cycle centering on a modern urban romance and the heartache it brings. Winther plays a smart, resilient, wry but ultimately optimistic gay New Yorker. The workshop production attracted strong reviews and the recording is an interesting mix of different musical sounds that convey the characters thoughts as he proceeds through his life. The recording is well produced and the piece sounds like it would make viable and alive theater.
Grade: B+
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Phoenix, AZ (March 19, 2006) - Recently got some new releases that I haven't had a chance to listen to as yet, so look for future reviews of "See What I Wanna See" (Ghostlight), "Songs From An Unmade Bed" (Ghostlight), and "December Songs" (PS Classics).
Still trying to find the time to watch the DVD of "Rent" and since I missed the short run of "The Producers" film, I'm looking forward to its release on May 15 as well. Both film versions of current Broadway hit musicals were less than smashing successes at the film box office.
Now to reviews of new show music releases:
"GOLDEN BOY"
Original Broadway Cast
DRG Records (19079)
"Golden Boy" in 1964 featured a smashing performance by Sammy Davis in a tuneful musical adaptation of Clifford Odets play about fighter Joe Wellington. The score, with music by Charles Strouse and lyrics by Lee Adams, is full of delightful tunes. Davis sang them with his special élan and lusty style. This original cast recording has been available on CD before but it has been re-mastered and a thorough booklet added to this new DRG release. It's nice to again have this wonderfully tuneful '60s musical available again.
Grade: B+
"THE BROADWAY MUSICALS OF 1935"
Town Hall Cast
Bayview (RNBW034)
The Broadway By The Year series had a wonderful concert of 1935 musicals back in 2004. That performance is now available on Bayview. It focuses on the major shows of that year including "Porgy and Bess," Rodgers and Hart's "Jumbo," Cole Porter's "Jubilee," "May Wine," "At Home Abroad," "Parade," "George White's Scandals," and "Earl Carroll's Sketchbook." The tunes are all rich in melody and brightly written with sharp lyrics. It's a reminder that Broadway shows were tuneful in years past, something many contemporary shows lack. Narrator and writer Scott Siegel provides lots of bits and pieces of history about the shows and their authors in between the wonderful performances of today's contemporary musical theater stars. Especially memorable are performances of several "Jumbo" songs and powerful renditions of three songs from "Porgy and Bess." The "Porgy and Bess" songs are sung beautifully by Chuck Cooper and Laurie Williamson. The other interesting songs come from the last three shows mentioned above and are scores that were not previously recorded. Another hit in this ongoing series.
Grade: A
"SHOW BOAT"
Opera North/Royal Shakespeare Company Cast
JAY (CDJAY2 1394)
It's always nice to have another version of "Show Boat" available. This recording of a production that played in 1989 and 1990 in England is based on the 1946 version of the popular musical. It is well sung and complete on two CDs. This version is not quite as spectacularly produced as the popular recent Broadway revival that was based on the show's original production with musical additions from several versions. The cast of this version sings well and there's not a weak performance among the leads. If you collect all the versions of this most popular of Broadway musicals, this recording belongs in your library. If you are looking for just one recording of the classic score, this is not the most outstanding version available.
Grade: B
"FALLING IN LOVE IS WONDERFUL - BROADWAY'S GREATEST LOVE DUETS"
RCA Red Seal (82876-75892-2)
Broadway musicals often have love as their theme so this latest compilation recording from RCA, "Falling In Love Is Wonderful - Broadway's Greatest Love Duets" has a host of fine performances of classic love songs from classic and contemporary musicals. It also includes performances by many of Broadway's biggest musical theater stars in their most famous appearances. The show selections range from "Annie Get Your Gun" to several recent shows including "Parade" and "A New Brain." It is interesting that some of the selections of the most famous love songs aren't original cast recordings but come from revivals. Some of these revivals include one or more original stars but usually aren't from the complete original casts. My favorite track is the stunningly beautiful "All The Wasted Time" sung with devoted passion by Brent Carver and Carolee Carmello. This song represents the realization of these two characters, married for years but never truly in love, who discover that they do indeed love each other with great fervor. It was a touching moment in the show and it plays wonderfully here among these many classic Broadway love songs.
Grade: B+
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Phoenix, AZ (February 12, 2006) - Lots of new Broadway show music albums have been arriving in the last month and below are featured reviews of five. Some are of new Broadway shows; others are re-releases of old shows that have long been unavailable in pristine new CD re-masterings. There are also a couple of musical theater artist solo albums with some material that's never been available.
Word has been slow on future re-releases of old shows and that market seems to be so small that the few planned are often delayed. The only big news is the coming Sony release later this month of four classic Stephen Sondheim shows in honor of his 75th birthday. All four contain bonus tracks that should make them particularly interesting.
Now to reviews of new show music releases:
"THE COLOR PURPLE"
Original Broadway Cast
Angel Records (0946 3 42954 2 0)
The motion picture treatment of the touching "The Color Purple" has been translated into a Broadway musical. It's a lot of plot to cram into a musical. The story of Celie, an African-American woman, and her troubled life from 1909 to 1949 is emotionally gripping as she takes her dismal life in her hands and rids herself of her challenging domestic partner and stakes out on her own. While the story has a positive ending, her life is complex and fitting the entire story into a musical is problematic. The music and lyrics by Brenda Russell, Allee Willis, and Stephen Bray is derivative and only occasionally as gripping as Celie's story. LaChanze is magnificent as Celie and her stirring performance is captured eloquently on the cast album. The rest of the large cast also conveys the story's emotionalism and pathos through the ordinary songs resulting in a rousing and engrossing if not stellar cast album.
Grade: B
"SWEENEY TODD"
Broadway Cast Revival 2005
Nonesuch (79946-2)
The revival of Stephen Sondheim's "Sweeney Todd" seemed weird. Could we accept a version of this macabre piece that had Patti LuPone playing the lovable Mrs. Lovett as a tartish flirt and that painted Todd even bleaker and darker than usual in Michael Cerveris performance? The answer, on the basis of the revival cast recording, is a glowing "yes." The stark production throws focus on Todd's tragic story of his wrongful imprisonment and ultimate escape only to return to London so changed by the injustice that he becomes a murderer as a way to right the wrong done against him. The music is stunningly delivered by the revival cast that also serves as the show's orchestra and the performance is moving and quite colossal. While the original Broadway cast recording is quite special, this is the first departure from the show's original interpretation and it's welcome and appropriate. The two-CD set includes almost the entire score and it is magnificently performed. The new "Sweeney Todd" is a wonderful new recording of a classic Broadway show by master composer/lyricist Sondheim.
Grade: A+
"BAKER STREET"
Original Broadway Cast
Decca Broadway (B0005971-02)
The 1965 musical "Baker Street" was adapted from the Arthur Conan Doyle stories and placed the famous detective Sherlock Holmes in an elaborate musical that also featured Dr. Watson and the evil Moriarty. The lovely and melodic score was created by Martin Grudeff and Raymond Jessel with the book the work of Jerome Coopersmith. Actor Fritz Weaver played Holmes and sang well but, even more significant, this show marked Inga Swenson's Broadway musical return after "110 in the Shade." She plays an American actress appearing in London and she is woven through the plot and ends up romantically attached to Holmes. She sings gloriously and glistens through her opening song, "I'm In London Again," and does lovely work throughout this long unavailable cast recording. The pristine re-mastering is wonderful and two additional tracks have been added including Richard Burton's take on the show's "A Married Man." The score of "Baker Street" and the impeccable cast make this new CD release a treasure for show music collectors and even those with just a passing interest in old Broadway shows.
Grade: A
"HUGH SINGS MARTIN"
PS Classics (PS-9535)
Hugh Martin created several Broadway musicals including "Best Foot "Hugh Sings Martin" is a tribute to every phase of his lengthy and distinguished songwriting career. This CD contains Martin's own versions of his song hits as performed on radio and on private recordings. The collection shows the composer's talent and diversity and it's a delight to listen to the song hits. Some of the old recordings are not pristine and no tinkering could have made them sound much better but the treasure of hearing a composer and his own versions of his songs are nonetheless special.
Grade: B
"SEASONS OF LOVE"
MICHAEL BALL
Demon Music Group (MCDLX019)
Michael Ball has had an illustrious career in London musicals, and has most recently starred on Broadway in "The Woman in White." He's played a variety of important roles and the new compilation of all his hits both from musicals and from popular songs is quite impressive in "Seasons of Love," a two-disc, 36-track collection. He sings several musical theater songs usually assigned to women and does them with conviction and feeling. He does wonderful versions of his own show music hits and this collection is a strong addition for Michael Ball's fan list.
Grade: B
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Phoenix, AZ (January 28, 2006) - Just back from my annual whirlwind trip to see the latest Broadway shows. On this trip, all nine shows were musicals. As I try to get back into the latest show music recordings, visions of those musicals - "The Color Purple," "Dirty Rotten Scoundrels," "Monty's Python's Spamalot," "The Light in the Piazza," "The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee," "Forbidden Broadway," "Sweeney Todd," "Jersey Boys" and "The Woman in White" - remain with me as I balance listening to new show music recordings with chances to relive my Broadway experiences through the cast recordings of all the shows I saw but "Sweeney Todd."
Speaking of that Stephen Sondheim revival, the cast was in the studio recently and the complete "Sweeney Todd" revival cast recording that puts a different but logical take on the macabre show will be released Tuesday.
Arrived in New York the day that Barbara Cook made her first solo appearance at the Metropolitan Opera House. The reviews were glowing but some words from fans on various web sites suggested that her memory lapses were frequent and not well handled. DRG recorded the performance and will release the CD and possibly a DVD next month. It will be interesting to see what trickery is used to disguise the awkward moments but I'm sure the final recording will be another treasure in Cook's continuing legacy. At 78, she may forget her lyrics but her voice and her way of telling a story through each song she performs remains undiminished.
Now to reviews of new show music releases:
"YOURS, ANNE"
Original Off-Broadway Cast
JAY Records (CDJAY2 1391)
In 1985, Enid Futterman wrote the book and Michael Cohen wrote the music for "Yours, Anne," the only one of several musical theater treatments of the Anne Frank story that was authorized by Frank's father, Otto. The work was recorded and is now available on CD. It is a powerful and moving musical treatment of the touching story of survival that Frank committed to a diary that was found after she and her family were incarcerated after being found in their hidden Amsterdam living space. The music and performances of a fine cast convey the emotional struggle that the family endured in their attempt to evade the Nazis. The music is melodic and haunting and highlights the familiar story that Frank told of her family's difficult ordeal. The work has been performed frequently and this touching musical is a brilliant testament to the power and wonder of the Frank family's challenging circumstances.
Grade: A
"THE GREAT AMERICAN TRAILER PARK MUSICAL"
Original Off-Broadway Cast
Sh-K-Boom Records (7915586051-2)
"The Great American Trailer Park Musical" is the result of music writer David Nehls's childhood experiences of delivering a daily newspaper to a trailer park, long considered to be the living location of society's down and outs. Along with Betsy Kelso's book - she met Nehls while on a tour with him - the show is an affectionate view of the camaraderie found in the enclaves of people who call manufactured housing home. The music is breezy contemporary, some of it rock inspired, some of it more traditional and melodic, but all of it enjoyable and telling as the show relates the story of these characters. It's easy to see that this will be a popular show and should easily done by theater companies throughout the country in versions that can add a few local references to this loving tribute of these nomadic people.
Grade: B
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Phoenix, AZ (January 15, 2006) - The new Broadway musical "The Color Purple" gets a cast recording on the Angel Records label on January 24. The same day Sh-K-Boom Records releases the world premiere cast recording of "The Great American Trailer Park Musical." This past week, PS Classics released the Off-Broadway cast recording of "Lone Star Love," which is reviewed below.
The latest DVD release of the "Chicago" film has lots of extra features including extensive interviews with the original Broadway stars, Chita Rivera and Jerry Orbach. Some of the footage includes snippets of the original Broadway staging that are a treasure to musical theater lovers. Plus the latest "Chicago" has lots of cut footage from the film as well as a pristine version of the film.
"Cabin in the Sky" has been released on DVD as have three Rodgers and Hammerstein musicals: "Oklahoma," "State Fair" and "The Sound of Music," with lots of interesting extra features. "State Fair" has both film versions. The Bell Telephone Hour cuts of Carol Lawrence are now available and include the star in television versions of several of her original songs from her Broadway musical successes. Like the recent Barbara Cook Telephone Hour collection, this is an interesting DVD.
Just got the two-CD "Billy Elliot" from London. It's nicely packaged, has the original cast recording on one CD and a second CD featuring Elton John, the show's composer, in three songs from the show. There are also extra photographs from the upcoming book chronicling the show's stage debut.
Now to reviews of new show music releases.
"DESSA ROSE"
Original Off-Broadway Cast
JAY Records (CDJAY2 1392)
"Dessa Rose" is a fascinating character study of two strong women living in the South in the early 1800s. The show portrays a slave and a Southern Belle both young and then old. They are both gutsy and live by their own rules. The score is by Stephen Flaherty with the lyrics by Lynn Ahrens who also penned the book from the Sherley Anne Williams novel. The score, like this team's earlier works, is complex and amazingly telling about the characters, what they think, and how they react to various diverse situations. The performances, preserved in an almost complete two-disc set, are exquisite even on CD. LaChanze plays the title character and Rachel York plays Ruth. LaChanze has done complex roles like Dessa before and she is telling and plaintive. York has often taken over roles and often played parts that weren't terribly complex. Here, she moves up to multi-dimensional character and gives the part an insightful reading even through the music. It's too bad this rich show didn't catch on as the recording makes me yearn to see a good production of it. It's nice that we have this unique show in such a complete recording.
Grade: A
"LONE STAR LOVE"
Original Off-Broadway Cast
PS Classics (PS-531)
"Lone Star Love" was a surprise off-Broadway hit last season. Plans are still underway to bring it to Broadway next season. The cast album reveals a raucous score by Jack Herrick illustrating John L. Haber's interesting transposition of Shakespeare's "The Merry Wives of Windsor" to post-Civil War Texas. The cast includes the amazing Red Clay Ramblers and the twangy and lusty score fits the bawdy tale perfectly. The attractive 40-page booklet has interesting articles about the show and all of the song lyrics plus generous pictures of the original production that whets one's appetite to see the show when it reopens on Broadway. "Lone Star Love" is not your typical musical, to be sure, but it is an interesting score that fits the story.
Grade: A-
"DEFYING GRAVITY"
DEBBIE GRAVITTE
JAY Records (CDJAY 1393)
Debbie Gravitte has done many Broadway roles in her remarkable career and she shows us why she has been so well received in her new solo album, "Defying Gravity." The new CD is a rich and wonderful collection of Broadway show tunes including several songs she has introduced. The collection leans to the classics with less contemporary representation but the she sounds great in all of them. Although she's never done "Wicked," she opens the album and takes its title from that show's big song and she spins it well. She does a couple of wonderful Jerry Herman ballads, "Time Heals Everything" and "If He Walked Into My Life Today, as well as her "Les Miserables" signature, "I Dreamed A Dream." She's lusty and playful in "Chicago's" "When You're Good To Mama" and "Gypsy's" "Some People." She delivers a haunting "Memory," a stirring "Don't Rain On My Parade," and ends with "Zorba's" "Only Love." A great album for show music junkies like me.
Grade: A
"ANNIE GET YOUR GUN"
Original Broadway and Soundtrack Casts
Naxos Musicals (8.120790)
Naxos Musicals has released a comprehensive version of "Annie Get Your Gun" that contains the classic Broadway version plus the film soundtrack coupled with an exciting extra "There's No Business Like Show Business" from 1953 that featured original star Ethel Merman and the first touring Annie, Mary Martin. It's easy to see that the film version suffered when original star Judy Garland had to leave and was replaced by Betty Hutton and the original cast version hits closer to the intent Irving Berlin wanted in his near-perfect score. It's interesting to have this rich treasure of multiple versions available on one CD so comparisons are easy. A nice addition to this label's ongoing series of Broadway musicals.
Grade: A
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After a holiday hiatus that was predominated in my house with seasonal music, it's nice to return to show music and reviews of the latest releases in my favorite musical arena.
Not a lot of news about show music releases over the holidays except that the sensational London hit musical, "Billy Elliot," will be released in the United States in February or March in both the single and double CD sets. In today's reviews, I give my opinions of the newly released London cast CD that I received as an import.
I'm also looking forward to my annual January trek to Broadway to see the latest shows. This year, the nine shows I will see during my week in New York City will all be musicals due to the unprecedented number of new Broadway musicals coupled with the several big hits that opened toward the end of last season that I haven't yet seen.
Here's hoping that 2006 brings continued show music releases including the vast treasure trove of old shows that have yet to be turned into CDs as well as new studio cast recordings of older shows and releases of new Broadway shows. Although the number of show music lovers is small, we are a dedicated and faithful group who anticipate each new release with enthusiasm.
Now to reviews of new show music releases:
"BILLY ELLIOT"
Original London Cast
Polydor (987 521-6)
The movie "Billy Elliot" was a big hit as it eloquently traced the life of a young British lad from a rural town who fought stereotypes and negative images to become a brilliant dancer. The sensitive story and the boy's determination to become a dancer enraptured audiences. It was just a matter of time before the film was turned into a musical and the show debuted to great acclaim in London. A New York production is planned next season. The long awaited cast recording is finally available and it's easy to see why the show is such a success. The Elton John score with lyrics by Lee Hall is a wonderful collection of fine contemporary songs that add depth to key scenes in the story. John's diverse songs allow the rough and tumble workers of the small city where Billy grows up to sound dominant and macho while Billy's songs provide eloquent insight into the boy's incredibly complex life and the pulls and pushes he must tackle to realize his dream. The casting is impeccable. With three boys rotating as Billy, the cast album uses only Liam Mower for the lead role. It would have been nice if the CD could have had alternate tracks featuring the other performers in this complex and pivotal role but that is the only criticism of this wonderfully rich cast recording.
Grade: A
"SWEET CHARITY"
Original 1986 Broadway Revival Cast
DRG Records (19077)
The 1986 Broadway revival of "Sweet Charity" featured Debbie Allen in the vulnerable title role. She sounds good but certainly adds nothing new or different the role that was tailored to original star Gwen Verdon. The revival introduced the alternate number for the male lead, impressively played by Michael Rupert, "Sweet Charity," a song where he waxes enthusiastically about his new found love for Charity. It's nice to have another recording of the catchy score available but it is interesting that DRG released it along with the new Broadway revival recording. The 1986 version is definitely better than latest production that closes tonight after an unsuccessful run with Christina Applegate.
Grade: B
"ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER DIVAS"
Really Useful Records/Polydor (9875388)
"Andrew Lloyd Webber Divas" is a collection of the composer's biggest and greatest tunes as sung by various stars that have appeared in the shows or recorded them. It's a great listen if you like Lloyd Webber's musical scores and the artists each bring their own personalities to the songs. There are some selections that seem questionable because there are much better recordings of the songs. The disc opens with Elaine Paige's now famous rendition of "Cats" "Memory" from the original London cast recordings. There are some male numbers included that are here sung by women and the sound is very different from anything heard previously. "The Phantom of the Opera's" "The Music of the Night" suffers due to these gender changes because Katherine Jenkins version is pale and wanting. In other cases, like the title tune from "Whistle Down the Wind," the change works because of Tina Arena's sensitive vocals. This album is good background music for show music lovers.
Grade: B
"STOP THE WORLD - I WANT TO GET OFF"
Original London Cast
Must Close Saturday Records (MCSR 3028)
The Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley musical "Stop the World - I Want to Get Off" has long been available in the Broadway cast recording but now the original London production's version is again an alternate option with Must Close Saturday Records re-mastered and restored version. Newley also starred in his show playing Littlechap, as the clown who faces life with resolute determination and drive. The score is nice with the hit tune, "What Kind of Fool Am I?," a standout. I prefer the Broadway version and there's nothing really different on the London interpretation but it's nice to have a choice if you plan to add the show to your collection.
Grade: B
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Phoenix, AZ (December 3, 2005) - No major news about Broadway show recordings this week so I'll get on to this week's new CD reviews.
"JERSEY BOYS"
Original Broadway Cast
Rhino (R2 73271)
"Jersey Boys" is a big Broadway hit. As one of many recent jukebox musicals, the show seems to have captured the story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons" effectively while using the group's popular '60s music well. Like the model for all these recent shows, "Mamma Mia," "Jersey Boys" doesn't make the songs into a wonderful discovery for me. I grew up when these songs premiered but because I was so focused on musical theater and classical music, I never heard this "pop" music at the time. It's a pleasant enough listen but the show, on record at least, doesn't have the mesmerizing power of "Mamma Mia." The Broadway cast is solid and the show is destined to succeed. If you loved The Four Seasons, "Jersey Boys" will bring back the joy of the music but I'll hold final judgment on this show until I see it on my next Broadway trip.
Grade: B
"STOP THE WORLD - I WANT TO GET OFF"
Original London Cast
Must Close Saturday Records (MCSR 3028)
"Stop The World - I Want to Get Off" was a new style musical that introduced Leslie Bricusse to the musical theater as it told a universal story about living in the complex world we inhabit. The score is filled with several lovely melodies and Anthony Newley's now legendary performance as Littlechap is captured glowingly in the original London cast recording that has been made newly available by Must Close Saturday Records. The show's famous anthem "What Kind of Fool Am I?" is the standout number but all the songs focus on Littlechap and his life in the world as seen through a clown's eyes. It's a great score. It's nice to again have the first production's original recording available.
Grade: B
"FINIAN'S RAINBOW"/"BRIGADOON"
Original Broadway Casts
Living Era - Sanctuary Records (CD AJA 5530)
Along with Must Close Saturday Records, Living Era, a division of Sanctuary Records, has been releasing old Broadway shows in pristine CD re-workings. Combining two of the mid-'40s biggest Broadway hits with their magical, fairytale stories about mythical places is inspired. It's great to have both "Finian's Rainbow" and "Brigadoon" available in such a bargain priced CD release. The original cast performances of both shows are legendary and especially "Finian's" has some several memorable interpretations of the great Burton Lane score. Ella Logan's great and genuinely Irish Sharon is outstanding as is David Wayne's lively leprechaun, Og. In "Brigadoon," long forgotten musical theater stars David Brooks and Marion Bell sing glowingly. The first Lerner and Loewe hit show has some classic song hits including the lovely romantic ballads, "The Heather on the Hill" and "Almost Like Being in Live" along with such rich comic tunes as "My Mother's Wedding Day" and "I'll Go Home with Bonnie Jean." The CD has two bonus tracks including Dick Haymes' "How Are Things In Glocca Morra?" and Frank Sinatra's "Almost Like Being Love" that add because, in their day, musicals created the day's song hits. This CD is a rich look back at two of Broadway's classic shows.
Grade: A
"OPPOSITE YOU"
MARIN MAZZIE/JASON DANIELEY
PS Classics (PS-536)
Jason Danieley and Marin Mazzie are both current Broadway stars and in their first album as husband and wife, "Opposite You," they combine a winning collection of musical theater standards and pop tune hits into a richly rewarding new CD. Both winning singers, they do justice to all 16 tracks of excellently arranged songs that showcase their voices gloriously. The stars are relaxed and winsome in a lush "Honeysuckle Rose," and brilliant in some musical theater classics like a well-arranged Stephen Sondheim medley and classic Irving Berlin and Jerry Herman tunes. An excellent band sounds great and highlights the couple's vocal strengths glowingly as conducted with musical arrangements by David Loud. This is a lovely CD and great background to a romantic evening or just for the enjoyment of hearing such wonderfully sung versions of a fine collection of classic songs.
Grade: A
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Phoenix, AZ (November 20, 2005) - The big news this update is that the new Broadway "Sweeney Todd" revival has been recorded for release on the Nonesuch label. The recording, a big hit with New York critics, is being produced by Tommy Krasker, who has previously recorded several Sondheim shows both for Nonesuch label and his own PS Classics label.
The release date for the album has not been announced. Because this small-scale production is so different than previous productions and because the cast is the orchestra as part of their work in the show, it should be an interesting take on the popular score. The New York cast is headed by Michael Cerveris and Patti LuPone and their interpretations of the vengeful barber and Mrs. Lovett are garnering superlative notices.
Two big Broadway musicals - "The Producers" and "Rent" - are to be released as movies in upcoming weeks. The soundtrack recordings are now available:
"THE PRODUCERS"
Original Movie Soundtrack
Sony Classics (82876-74691-2)
"The Producers" was one of Broadway's biggest recent hits and much of its success rests on the dynamic chemistry between leads Nathan Lane and Matthew Broderick. When the movie was being developed pairing the Broadway team was critical and that's exactly what the producers did. The movie will be released in major markets December 16 with broader distribution to follow through January. The score sounds much like the Broadway original albeit with a bigger sound from the expanded movie orchestra. Many of the smaller character songs have been eliminated and more emphasis has been placed on the big production and comedy numbers. The same charm between the leads is apparent in listening to the soundtrack but one wonders how the importance of their personalities will transfer on screen. The soundtrack makes one want to see the film and it does preserve the big numbers that made "The Producers" such a delightful joy on stage.
Grade: A
"RENT"
Original Movie Soundtrack
Warner Bros. (49455-2)
I have never been in love with "Rent" and the movie version based on the soundtrack that will be released in theaters over the Thanksgiving holiday doesn't cause me any additional bond with the rock inspired retelling of the popular "La Boheme" story. The story is transposed to contemporary New York City and filled with the current issues being faced by young people today. The score's best song, "Seasons of Love," is well presented on the two CD soundtrack, as is the rest of the score. The cast includes many of the Broadway stars and the few new cast members all fit in seamlessly. It will be interesting to see how this show with its suggestive sets and atmospheric feel on Broadway will transition into the reality imposed by the film. If you like Jonathan Larson score and the way the famous story is adapted, the soundtrack is a fine rendition. If you were lukewarm toward the show on Broadway, the movie soundtrack introduces no further inducements to love this translation.
Grade: C
"A FAMILY AFFAIR"
Original Broadway Cast
DRG Records (19068)
"A Family Affair" was a big Broadway bomb in 1962 but it did introduce John Kander to the musical theater, although this was before he teamed so successfully with Fred Ebb. The show tells the story of what happens after the boy wins the girl leading up to the wedding. The story was not well told but the score is a delight and is charming. The long out-of-print original cast recording has been converted and restored by DRG in its continuing series of CD releases of old shows. The cast features several non-singers Shelley Berman, Eileen Heckart, and Morris Carnovsky but it also marked Larry Kert's Broadway debut and such Broadway stalwarts as Rita Gardner and Bibi Osterwald carry the singing burdens. It's a fresh, melodic, and pleasant score and having the cast album again available is another glimpse into Broadway history.
Grade: B
"SONDHEIM SINGS VOLUME II 1946-60"
PS Classics (PS-9533)
The second volume of private Sondheim recordings of his compositions is out and it's full of rare and unusual material much of it never before available. Sondheim is not the best of singers but he can certainly carry a tune and this release includes many of his earliest works. It includes songs he wrote for high school and college shows as well as early unproduced professional work. The CD is accompanied by a wonderful booklet full of lyrics and background material providing further insight to the genius musical theater composer of our generation. These recordings provide musical theater lovers with a glimpse into Sondheim's formative years and it allows us to see where trends the composer used in his popular scores began. Many of these early songs are more melodic than his more famous work. It seems safe to conclude that his early influence by mentor Oscar Hammerstein and the more romantic tunes that Hammerstein and Richard Rodgers created started Sondheim on his own path to the brilliance he has created in his biggest and most popular scores. PS Classics is creating a unique treasure with this Sondheim Sings series. Another fascinating winner.
Grade: A
"THE 3 BROADWAY DIVAS"
JAY Records (CDJAY 8014)
Debbie Gravitte, Jan Horvath, and Christiane Noll are all current Broadway stars and their new album, "The 3 Broadway Divas," is a delightful collection of well-sung arrangements of popular famous Broadway hits. The collection ranges from Rodgers and Hart's "Sing for Your Supper" to several contemporary songs from current and recent musical hits. Standout moments in this wonderful CD are Noll's "Till There Was You" from "The Music Man," Gravitte's "Defying Gravity" from "Wicked," and Horvath's "Don't Cry For Me Argentina" from "Evita." The most unique selection is Gravitte's "Don't Rain on My Parade" from "Funny Girl," a song rarely heard today. The trio does an interesting take on "Cats'" "Memory" and "A Chorus Line's" "At the Ballet." Accompaniment is provided by the lush sounding National Symphony Orchestra. This is great collection of Broadway hits sung by three glorious Broadway stars.
Grade: A
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Phoenix, AZ (October 23, 2005) November will be a big month for cast recordings and DVDs of musical shows. On November 1, volume seven of "Broadway's Greatest Gifts - Carols for a Cure" will be released. There's not much information at this point about what will be included but I anticipate new and unique holiday songs sung by casts from current Broadway musicals, the usual format. Also that day, the cast recording of new Broadway show, "Jersey Boys," made in late August, will be released.
A DVD of Whoopi Goldberg's recent Broadway show, "Whoopi Back on Broadway 20th Anniversary," will also be available as will "Carol Lawrence Bell Telephone Hour," a 50 minute DVD of the star's appearances on that popular television show from 1960 to 1967.
November 8 will see the domestic release of the London cast recording of "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang." Apparently, no Broadway cast recording is scheduled. "Yours, Anne," the 1985 off-Broadway cast recording, will also be released that day. The DVD of the London cast of "Jerry Springer The Opera" will be also be available.
On November 15, Kritzerland will release the recording of the 2004 New York production of "The Last Starfighter." On that date, new DVD releases of three Rodgers and Hammerstein films will be available including the 40th anniversary "The Sound of Music," the 50th anniversary "Oklahoma," and the 60th anniversary of the first "State Fair." All three DVDs will have special features.
November 21 brings the long awaited London cast recording of "Billy Elliot the Musical" and the next day the 1986 revival recording of "Sweet Charity" will again be available.
I watched the "Barbara Cook Bell Telephone Hour 1960-67" DVD and it's a delight. This period is when Cook was at the height of her Broadway career. Her voice is lovely and she looks like she did in the original "The Music Man." There are several segments including one with her singing two of her "Music Man" songs and another featuring songs from 1962 Broadway musicals. It's easy to see the start of Cook's mastery at telling a story with each song, a technique she's refined so winningly since she turned to cabaret performances. What an experience to see Cook in her early career and marvel at how her career has lasted and prospered to today. We're so lucky to have this great artist's performances and her devotion to musical theater songs.
Ghostlight Records has just announced that they will release the original cast recording of "See What I Wanna See" and a cast recording of "The Great American Trailer Park Musical." No release dates for either recording has been announced.
A domestic release of the London cast recording of "Mary Poppins" is now available and although I reviewed it when the London edition was released, it was wonderful to listen to this charming score again.
Now to this week's CD reviews.
"FOREVER PLAID - THE 15TH ANNIVERSARY RECORDING"
Las Vegas Cast
DRG Records (12630)
The delightful harmonies of all those familiar '50s tunes are brought out glowingly in the new Las Vegas cast recording of "Forever Plaid," the 15th anniversary version of the popular and breezy revue that features four guys who were killed and were allowed to return for a day to present the show that their death never allowed. Such wonderful song hits as "Three Coins in the Fountain," "Moments to Remember," "Perfidia," "Sixteen Tons," "Catch a Falling Star," "Matilda," and "Love Is a Many Splendored Thing" are just some of the music you'll enjoy, reflect upon, and cherish in this fine show. The Las Vegas cast sounds just as good as earlier productions and this show and album are a lasting tribute to an era of great songs.
Grade: A
"CAROUSEL" AND "ALLEGRO"
Original Broadway Casts
Naxos Musicals (8.120780)
When the early Rodgers and Hammerstein musicals, "Carousel" and "Allegro," were recorded, cast albums were new. Songs were squeezed and shuffled to fit on multiple sides of the old 78 rpm record format and sacrifices were made in preserving the shows. Naxos has been re-issuing cast albums and they spend time cleaning up the old recordings and then arrange the songs in the order they were presented in the show and sometimes they add additional material. The latest in the series is a double CD containing the two shows and the pristine sound and corrected order of the songs gives us the best representation of these shows original recordings. Of course, the shows were wonderful, rich in melody, strong in performance, and that goes even for the less successful "Allegro" that was an experiment on the authors' parts. Pairing these shows is inspired and the fine result proves a wonderful look at what these shows sounded like when they first opened.
Grade: A
"LOVE CHANGES EVERYTHING -- THE ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER COLLECTION: VOLUME TWO"
SARAH BRIGHTMAN
Decca Broadway (B0005570-02)
Sarah Brightman's lovely voice played a special role in her then husband, Andrew Lloyd Webber's successful "The Phantom of the Opera" when she essayed Christine in both London and New York. She has the type of lyric soprano voice that works well on many of Lloyd Webber's songs and she uses her gifts magically in "Love Changes Everything." She sings many of Lloyd Webber's biggest hits wonderfully and does brilliant solo work in several of the 14 tracks. She's joined where necessary for duets by some of musical theater greatest contemporary stars including a rich pairing with Cliff Richards for "Only You" from "Starlight Express," an inspired "Seeing is Believing" from "Aspects of Love" with Michael Ball, a fabulous "Think of Me" from "Phantom" with Steve Barton, a stirring duet with John Barrowman, "Too Much In Love To Care" from "Sunset Boulevard," and the title song from "Phantom" with Steve Harley. Her solos include a phenomenal Spanish language version of "Don't Cry for Me Argentina," "Love Changes Everything," and "I Don't Know How to Love Him" among others. This is a delightful collection of Lloyd Webber hits sung beautifully by Brightman and company.
Grade: A
"DANCING IN THE DARK"
JEFF HARNAR
PS Classics (PS-534)
Cabaret artist Jeff Harner has a delightfully warm and wonderful collection of older tunes in his new album, "Dancing in the Dark." The songs selected include compositions by the greatest songwriters of Broadway and Hollywood, many with hauntingly unique arrangements including the title track and "Flower Drum Song's" "Love Look Away," a song usually done by women but here touchingly delivered by Harner. The vocalist has a warm and smooth sound that makes the songs he selects mellow and beautiful. This is a wonderful recording to play as background music for a romantic dinner or date. "Dancing in the Dark" is another winner from PS Classics, a small label that is dedicated to both the musical theater and fine cabaret singers like Harner.
Grade: A
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Phoenix, AZ (October 9, 2005) - Little new on cast recordings but this update includes reviews of four interesting new releases.
"TRIBUTE"
BARBARA COOK
DRG Records (91493)
The best of the four new releases is Barbara Cook's subtle new masterpiece, "Tribute," a touching and beautiful album devoted to her longtime musical director and arranger Wally Harper, who died last year. Cook's voice grows more and more mellow and her ability to use the songs she picks to tell wonderful little stories is stunning.
The new album, with fine music direction and arrangements by Michael Kosarin, first reveals that Cook has found herself a replacement for Harper who knows how to highlight Cook's voice and how to arrange songs that fit her storytelling style.
Cook says in the liner notes that she selected the songs. Several are Harper compositions, including "Sing A Song With Me" that Cook has made one of her standards. The new arrangement gives the longtime favorite song a new sound but Cook wraps her luscious voice around the notes and delivers it with great passion to her mentor.
She also does a nice job with "The World Must Be Bigger Than An Avenue," a song Harper wrote for Debbie Reynolds to sing in the "Irene" revival. She also uses 2005 being the centennial year of Harold Arlen's birth to celebrate several of his song hits and she selects lots of delicious song hits from long forgotten shows that she's never done before. It's a wonderful CD and Cook's fabulous voice remains amazing.
Grade: A+
"THE WORLD IS YOUR BALLOON" - THE DECCA SINGLES 1950-1951
ETHEL MERMAN
Decca Broadway (B0005109-02)
Ethel Merman is known for several of her big, famous shows and she wasn't known to try lots of different music during her career. But back in 1950 and 1951, she recorded several singles of tunes not generally known as Merman standards. These have been collected by Decca Broadway into "The World Is Your Balloon," and she sings several tunes with Ray Bolger and Jimmy Durante. Several of the songs are from shows she never did and are especially interesting to hear her take on others big show tunes.
Opening the disc are two songs from "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes" and Merman gives her unique and gutsy take on "A Little Girl From Little Rock" and "Diamonds Are A Girl's Best Friend." She also does two from "A Tree Grows In Brooklyn," a show Shirley Booth made famous. Merman does a nice job with the poignant "Love Is The Reason" and "Make The Man Love Me." The album's title tune is from "Flahooley," a show Barbara Cook originally did, but Merman's big version works, even if the song will never be a memorable one. The duets are all fun if not terrific and the time period is during Merman's peak so her voice sounds flawless and booming. Nice surprises are these long forgotten singles featuring one of our Musical Theatre's biggest stars.
Grade: A
"INSIDE U.S.A."/"THE BAND WAGON"
Original Broadway Cast/Studio Cast
Sepia Records (SEPIA 1056)
The English record label, Sepia, keeps digging up unusual old cast recordings and releasing them on remastered CDs with informative booklets. The latest brings "Inside U.S.A." to us. Starring Beatrice Lillie and Jack Haley, the Arthur Schwartz/Howard Dietz musical revue has a breezy, pleasant score. The 14 selections from this 1948 show include both original cast recordings and studio renditions of show songs. The cast recorded many of the songs before the actual Broadway opening. The cast also included Thelma Carpenter. The show was suggested by John Gunther's book and sketches were developed by such legendary theater persons as Arnold Auerbach, Moss Hart, and Arnold B. Horwitt. The rest of the CD includes "The Band Wagon," an earlier revue by the same Schwartz/Dietz team that originally starred Fred and Adele Astaire. Their dance routines from this show are legendary and the score is lovely. The songs include some tracks by the original cast and later recordings by other artists. This album is a nice combination of two memorable historic musical revues.
Grade: B
"BROADWAY UNPLUGGED"
Original off-Broadway Cast
Bayview (RNBW032)
Scott Siegel's "Broadway By The Year" series is quite popular. Featuring the best of today's Broadway talent, he picks song hits from the musical hits of a specific year and links them together with his interesting commentary and narration. His newest series, "Broadway Unplugged," looked good on paper but the first recording is disappointing. Lots of today's stars don't sound great without the now familiar sound reinforcement so neither the people selected nor the tunes get the best renditions. The collection ranges from old chestnuts from such early shows as "The Desert Song," "Anything Goes," "The Band Wagon," "Lost In The Stars," and "Lady in the Dark" to more contemporary standards from "Funny Girl," "Anyone Can Whistle," "Sunday in the Park With George," "Ragtime," "Miss Saigon," and "Dreamgirls." None of the solos are particularly impressive but the company together sounds fine in "Carousel" stirring "You'll Never Walk Alone" as the concert's finale. Stephanie J. Block's "Don't Rain On My Parade" from "Funny Girl" doesn't hit the heart the way it should. Cady Huffman, cute in "The Producers," can't soar with "Anything Goes." Ann Harada doesn't stop things cold with "Anyone Can Whistle's" "There Won't Be Trumpets," Christine Andreas does well with "Lady In The Dark's" "My Ship" but Alix Korey can't deliver "Gypsy's" "Everything's Coming Up Roses" stirringly. Disappointing is the best quick review of the first "Broadway Unplugged."
Grade: D
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Phoenix, AZ (September 11, 2005) - The cast album of "Monty Python's Spamalot" on Decca Broadway has sold more than 100,000 copies since its May 3 release. Although not a huge number of copies when compared with show music albums released in the '50s and '60s, these are record sales for a contemporary cast CD. The show is a huge box office hit and that is no doubt fueling the large cast album sales.
This past week, Barbara Cook released her new CD on DRG. Called "Tribute," it is Cook's salute to her longtime collaborator and conductor, Wally Harper. Cook is also planning for her January solo appearance at the Metropolitan Opera House in New York City. Tickets for that show are now on sale with best seats fetching $95 and $125.
Another recent release is Decca Broadway's "Ethel Merman: The World Is Your Balloon - The Decca Singles 1950-1951." Any of Merman's old recordings are always interesting in revealing bits and pieces of the star's career and song selections. On September 25, a new book by Geoffrey Mark, "Ethel Merman: The Biggest Star on Broadway," arrives with an in-depth portrait of Merman's career, life, and loves.
Also ahead, on September 27, Sony/BMG finally releases the promised four Stephen Sondheim original cast recordings with added material in honor of his birthday. The shows include "Into the Woods," "Merrily We Roll Along," Sunday in the Park with George," and "Sweeney Todd." On the same day, the "Rent" soundtrack will be available on Warner Bros. Records in advance of the film's late November release.
Now to this installment's CD reviews.
"LEONARD SILLMAN'S NEW FACES OF '68"
Original Broadway Cast
DRG Records (19070)
Leonard Sillman's famous New York revues introduced many of Broadway's biggest stars and his "New Faces of '68" was no exception. In that year's show, two Broadway greats, Madeline Kahn and Robert Klein, appeared along side Brandon Maggart with an appearance by Sillman himself. The show was a collection of musical numbers not linked by any theme that showcase the performers Sillman used. Some of the songs are funny, others are romantic ballads, but all use the cast's talents perfectly. Kahn is in many of the ensemble numbers but she also has an outstanding solo in "Das Chicago Song," and Klein gets a hysterical parody, "Love in a New Tempo," in a section on Broadway love songs. The cast album is a bit a history and while not outstanding it is pleasant and gives listeners a chance to hear Kahn and Klein in their early Broadway days. I wonder if DRG plans to release all the recorded "New Faces." Let's hope so.
Grade: B
"SONDHEIM, ETC., ETC. LIVE AT CARNEGIE HALL: THE REST OF IT"
BERNADETTE PETERS
Angel Records (7243 4 74748 2 8)
In 1996, Bernadette Peters made her solo Carnegie Hall debut with an acclaimed show featuring musical theater treasures and other pop tunes. The show was recorded live but the initial release, "Sondheim Etc.," was edited to fit on one CD eliminating 12 selections. Now, Peters and Angel Records has issued a second CD, "Sondheim, Etc., Etc. Live at Carnegie Hall: The Rest of It," filling in the gap. It's Peters at her best and some of the tracks are amazing. Her "Children Will Listen" is a showstopper, while her "Song and Dance" solo, "Unexpected Song," and her lovely "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," all make this CD worth purchasing. Peters' unique voice wraps itself around the tunes she selects and lovingly delivers them with the warmth and tenderness that her voice possesses. This "rest of the show" release will take its rightful place next to the first CD so that this whole concert can be relived over time.
Grade: A
"NUNSENSATIONS! THE NUNSENSE VEGAS REVUE"
Original Minneapolis Cast
Nunsense, Inc. (No Number)
"Nunsense" is a phenomenon. The show is a clever take on Catholic rigidity and it's full of funny jokes. The latest version is a cast recording featuring a Las Vegas version, which is a bit bigger and splashier than other variations on the show's theme. Here, the Little Sisters of Hoboken have been offered a $10,000 donation to their school if they will play a Las Vegas showroom. The characters are the same five nuns we have known and loved in past "Nunsense" versions but the songs are new and parody not only the Church but the Nevada gaming capital. It's peppy and fun just like the earlier versions but, like so many sequels, the best version remains the original.
Grade: C+
"BLITZ!"
Original London Cast
EMI (00946 311282 2 6)
Lionel Bart hit his musical stride with his wonderful "Oliver" but he penned other shows and some of them showed potential for greatness. Bart's 1962 London hit was "Blitz!" that recaptures London's East End during World War II presenting the way of life during the dark days of that war. The score is catchy and clever but certainly brings back memories of "Oliver." The new CD adds three songs that were recorded but could not be included in the show's original recording. These songs include "As Long As This Is England," "Bake a Cake," and "Leave It to the Ladies." The score's best known song is the touching "Far Away" delivered by Grazina Frame but made more famous in the Shirley Bassey single. The original cast is sprightly and effervescent in delivering the show's musical numbers and it's nice to have this show available again to remind us that Bart created more than just one big musical hit. "Blitz!" is not superior to "Oliver" but it is an interesting show nonetheless.
Grade: B
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Phoenix, AZ (August 14, 2005) - Little news again in this update. Show music CD releases are scarce this time of the year and this summer is no exception.
Things are getting crazy at New York's Footlight Records. The announced late July store closing has been delayed as the final sale to sell remaining records plus store decorations and equipment continues. The operation is moving to Brooklyn where it will be an Internet and telephone order only store. While some staff is headed this week to the new Brooklyn location, the New York store remains open until later this month when it closes permanently. Thank goodness this prime supplier of show music recordings will still be accessible via the phone and the Internet. They promise a revised web site soon with new features but don't plan to see the changes until the move is complete and the new Brooklyn operation settles down.
Now to this week's CD reviews.
"WHOOPI, THE 20TH ANNIVERSARY SHOW"
Original Broadway Cast - Live
DRG Records (94778)
Be warned, Whoopi Goldberg's recent Broadway show is peppered with really raunchy language. If you don't like naughty words, stay away from this cast recording. But for those who can get through the colorful descriptive words and terms, Goldberg's show, "Whoopi, the 20th Anniversary," is fast and funny. Of course, Goldberg's liberal politics influence her political humor so if you're conservative that might be another reason to avoid the recording. But several segments deal with daily life and have nothing to do with the war in Iraq or the current President in the White House. Several segments deal with various issues of being a woman and, even for the men, they are clever and humorous looks at the bodily functions that rule of lives each day. The cast recording is complete on two CDs. Goldberg would have a broader audience if she could tame her speech but then maybe the colorful language helps make her unique and so funny.
Grade: B
"TRES BROADWAY - SONGS FROM THE STAGE"
TRES HANLEY-MILLMAN
Everview Records/On My Way to You Production (No Number)
Tres Hanley-Millman's Broadway tribute, "Tres Broadway - Songs from the Stage," is lovely. The performer has a sweet and pliable voice that goes from a formal sound in such Broadway stalwarts as "Funny Girl's" "Don't Rain On My Parade," "My Fair Lady's" "Show Me" and a touching medley from "Cinderella" to more a more fun and relaxed voice with noticeable inflections of humor in "Bye Bye Birdie's" "How Lovely To Be A Woman" or "Once Upon a Mattress'" "Shy." She picks some unusual songs and then does them beautifully like "Mama A Rainbow" from "Minnie's Boys" or "Is It Really Me" from "110 in the Shade." She handles the old classics well and she also does equally well with Sondheim creations, "For Good" from "Wicked" and "Jekyll & Hyde's" "In His Eyes." For show music lovers, the 14 tracks are a joy to listen to and the diversity of her selections makes this CD a gem for a Broadway solo tribute.
Grade: A
"NEW GUY IN TOWN"
GUY HAINES
Kritzerland (KR 20010-0)
Guy Haines' jazzy and fun "New Guy in Town" is a winner. Many of the 15 tracks are show tunes and he does them well. There are several unique show tunes like "I'm Past My Prime" from "Li'l Abner," the usually female torch song "Love Look Away" from "Flower Drum Song," and a wonderful "Little Red Hat" from "110 in the Shade" that is a duet with Juliana A. Hansen. There's a big rich band that accompanies Haines conducted with relish by Grant Geissman, who also does the orchestrations and arrangements with album producer Bruce Kimmel. This is the second release from Kimmel's new label and, just like "After the Ball," this is a classy album suggesting a bright future for the new company.
Grade: A
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Phoenix, AZ (July 31, 2005) - Not a lot of news about show music recordings but some definitive release dates have been announced for expected show CDs in the next few months. Some we've reported on before but others are new entries in the expected lineup.
Tuesday:
"Bernadette Peters: Sonheim Etc. Etc. (The Rest of It)" on Angel: This release includes previously unreleased material from Peters 1996 New York concert.
August 23:
"New Faces of 1968" on DRG Records: The original Broadway cast recording in a first time CD release.
"No For An Answer: An American Opera" on AEI: The 1941 New York cast recording of the Marc Blitzstein show.
August 30:
"Ethel Merman: The World Is Your Balloon - The Decca Singles 1950-1951" on Decca Broadway: Singles from the Broadway legend never before available on CD.
September 6:
"Tribute" by Barbara Cook on DRG Records: Barbara Cook's recording saluting her longtime musical director, the late Wally Harper.
September 20:
"Forever Plaid" on DRG Records: The Las Vegas cast recording of this popular off-Broadway show.
September 27:
The Four Sondheim original Broadway cast re-releases on Sony/BMG. All have bonus tracks: "Into the Woods," "Merrily We Roll Along," "Sunday in the Park with George" and "Sweeney Todd."
October 18:
"A Family Affair" on DRG Records: The original Broadway cast recording never before available on CD.
Now to this week's CD reviews.
"AFTER THE BALL"
Irish Repertory Theatre Cast
Kritzerland (KR 20010-1)
It's nice to have Bruce Kimmel back producing show music albums and the debut show on his new Kritzerland label is the excellent Irish Repertory Theatre cast recording of Noel Coward's 1954 "After the Ball," a witty and clever adaptation of Oscar Wilde's "Lady Windermere's Fan." When the show opened, the signed star, Mary Ellis, once a musical theater legend, had lost most of her voice and the show was altered during tryouts eliminating much of Coward's excellent score for the role. For this version, Barry Day edited a new version from the original with some extrapolations. The show's music is lovely, some of Coward's best, and the lyrics include Coward's renowned wit and sparkle. The production's cast is excellent. Even though the production wasn't a fully staged one because the show's size would have made it cost prohibitive, this recording gives us a wonderful record of what Coward intended with this show and it's a delightful listen. As expected, Kimmel produces a classy recording with a well-illustrated and informative booklet that explains the show well. It's nice to have Kimmel back with such a nice recording and we know he will capture many interesting shows that would otherwise be overlooked for recordings.
Grade: A
"LUCKY TO BE ME"
BRUCE DOW
Bruce Dow (no Number)
Vanity recordings are a real drag. Canadian Bruce Dow must surely love the musical theater but his solo recording, "Lucky To Be Me," doesn't do justice to any of the 12 songs he ruins from several popular musicals. His voice is mediocre at best and downright terrible in too many of the tracks. He has no ability to tell the stories included in the songs. Even though there are new and old show music in the songs, and even though there are different styles and tempos, nothing here sounds even passable. This vanity recording is best avoided and Dow should find other ways to pay tribute to the musical theater. Singing song hits is not something he should ever attempt again.
Grade: F
"ELECTRICITY"
ELTON JOHN
Mercury Records (9872184)
The first song to be released from the new London musical sensation, "Billy Elliot," is composer Elton John's own recording of "Electricity." The song is intriguing and makes one hope that the cast album for the popular new show will soon be available. Like most singles, there's little about the show it comes from and the recording shares a second song, "Indian Sunset," that doesn't come from the show. "Electricity's" song lyrics suggest that this tune might be a big second act torch song when Billy discovers how dance allows him to escape his drab and bleak life. It's a good teaser for the show.
Grade: B+
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Phoenix, AZ (July 17, 2005) - Bruce Kimmel, who made his name producing for the Varese Sarabande label before launching the Fynsworth Alley label has founded a new label devoted to theater - Kritzerland. A new web site, www.kritzerland.com, is up and has info on the initial two releases: "After the Ball" (the Noel Coward musical featuring the recent Irish Repertory Theatre cast as staged by Tony Walton) and the Guy Haines album "New Guy in Town," which features duets with Kerry Butler, Juliana A. Hansen, and Jessica Rush. These debut recordings mark a welcome debut for the new label. Kimmel is well known in the field and should make his new creation a success. On the Haines CD, there's a new Craig Carnelia song as well as a never heard before tune from Harvey Schmidt and Tom Jones. Other musical theater composers are featured as well. Both CDs will be in stores July 21 but will be available a week earlier if ordered on the web site.
Rumors have it that poor sales may end Decca Broadway releases of old show recordings. Through the many mergers of music labels, Decca now owns the biggest library of Broadway show recordings and they have many interesting titles that have long been unavailable and have never been released on CD. This is sad news for show music lovers and let's hope the rumor is not founded in fact.
Footlights, the New York store devoted to show music, has extended its closing sale through the early part of August before the famous store becomes an Internet and mail order only business.
Now to this week's CD reviews.
"THE BOY FRIEND"
1970 Broadway Revival Cast
Decca Broadway (B0004736-02)
There are many available recordings of Sandy Wilson's delightful spoof of the roaring 20s, "The Boy Friend." Decca Broadway has now released the first CD version of the 1970 revival starring Judy Carne, then a big television star. Of course, the definitive version of this show is the original Broadway cast featuring the luminescent performance of Julie Andrews as Polly Browne. Even the earlier original London cast recording with Anne Rogers is also notable. The 1970 revival wasn't particularly unique and Carne is not a memorable Polly. There are two standout performances, Sandy Duncan as Maisie, Polly's school classmate, and Harvey Evans as her dashing suitor, Bobby Van Husen. Their numbers are delightfully energetic. The show is a charmer and affectionately plays with the era's many stereotypes. The silly story isn't much except as an excuse for the wonderful musical numbers. I'm not sure why Decca Broadway decided this recording was worth the investment when they have so many more unique and original shows that have never been released as CDs.
Grade: C+
"WHERE IS LOVE & OTHER GREAT SHOW TUNES"
GARY WILMOT
Fabulous/Acrobat Music & Media (FABCD 259)
Musical theater star Gary Wilmot has put together a well-sung recording with lots of interesting musical theater gems. His big voice sounds fine and the arrangements all suit his voice to a tee. Of the 16 selections, he does four duets. Two are with Barbara Dickson - "I've Never Been in Love Before" from "Guys and Dolls" plus "Oliver's" "Who Will Buy." Focusing on "Oliver," he even does "Consider Yourself" with composer Lionel Bart. His other solo is "Sunset Boulevard's" big "The Perfect Years" with a commanding Carol Kenyon. Other highlights include a forceful "Younger Than Springtime," an interesting twist on "Bali Ha'i," a couple of nice and easy "Wizard of Oz" tunes, and "Beat Out That Rhythm On A Drum" from "Carmen Jones." Wilmot's CD is a worthy one.
Grade: B+
"LADY IN THE DARK" PLUS "DOWN IN THE VALLEY"
Original Television Casts
Sepia Records (SEPIA 1052)
Back in the '50s, musical theater was still big and several well received television productions of major Broadway shows occurred. Long unavailable, Ann Sothern's charming performance in a 1954 version of "Lady in the Dark," the excellent Kurt Weill/Ira Gershwin/Moss Hart show about the inner thoughts of a major women's magazine editor, Liza Elliott, has been released. The sequences of her journeys through her deep thoughts are fascinating and the television production has a nice dynamic. Sothern sounds good as does her co-star, Carleton Carpenter. The show's standout number, "My Ship," is a wonderful solo for Sothern. The Sepia release is paired with a 1950 production of Weill's American Folk Opera, "Down in the Valley." Featuring a wonderful cast that includes Marion Bell from "Brigadoon" original cast, and William McGraw, the show tells a love story with flashbacks to help set the scene. These chestnuts from early television are rare jewels so it's good to have them back. Two bonus tracks from other musicals feature the delightful soprano of Marion Bell.
Grade: B+
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Phoenix, AZ (July 2, 2005) - No news, just reviews:
"SWEET CHARITY"
New Broadway Cast
DRG Records (94777)
We've all read the negative publicity surrounding the Broadway "Sweet Charity" revival with television star Christina Applegate. So when the show's newly released cast album arrived, I could hardly wait to listen to it and see for myself just how good or bad Applegate and the show changes sounded. The answer is simple. It's a very disappointing and dispirited recording of a show that centers on the star's success. Applegate, as the dance hall hostess Charity Hope Valentine, can't sing very well and much of the music has been re-orchestrated to accommodate her limited vocal abilities. You can tell she is hard working and trying to create a unique take on the lovable central role. The orchestration sounds thin and the new arrangements of several familiar songs aren't improvements. The supporting cast, including Denis O'Hare's weird take on Charity's love Oscar, sounds feeble and lacks any standout performances. There are some interesting bonus tracks featuring composer Cy Coleman and lyricist Dorothy Fields singing hit songs from the show. This isn't a "Sweet Charity" for the ages but one to quickly dismiss as a good intentioned attempt that failed.
Grade: D
"PETER PAN"
Studio Cast
Koch International Classics (KIC-CD-7596)
The Leonard Bernstein "Peter Pan" was almost lost. Written in 1950, the Broadway production was stripped of most of Bernstein's brilliantly lyrical and wondrously melodic songs due to the casting of non-singing leads, Jean Arthur as Peter Pan and Boris Karloff as Captain Hook. This version of the popular J. M. Barrie play came before the more popular one that featured Mary Martin and was both a stage and television success. Just five of Bernstein's songs remained in the original production and the background music used throughout the show was by another composer. Now, through the diligent and hard work of conductor Alexander Frey, Bernstein's score has been recreated from old manuscripts and put together in a brilliant recording by Koch International Classic that features two major musical theater stars, Linda Eder as Wendy and Daniel Narducci as the evil Captain Hook. The score reveals melodies and musical phrasing heard throughout Bernstein's other, more successful musicals. There's wonderful background scoring that tells the story with insight and gusto. Eder's voice is perfect for Wendy's sincerity and compassion, and Narducci is an appropriately evil and vicious Hook. This labor of love is a treasure and makes one hope that some producer will take a chance and mount a revival of this version using the materials gathered for this recording.
Grade: A
"THE IMMIGRANTS"
World Premiere Cast Recording
Razor & Tie/Ghostlight Records (7915584404-2)
The World Premiere recording of "The Immigrants" will be released July 26 but I was lucky to get an early copy of this revealing and insightful musical that I saw staged in a brilliant Arizona Theatre Company production in Phoenix. The story tells what it was like for an immigrant family, Haskell and Leah, to come to a small Texas town and try to fit into the new American culture while retaining their Russian Jewish heritage. When Haskell arrives, he is taken under the wing of a banker, Milton, and his very Protestant wife, Ima. The couples remain friends in an up-and-down relationship for years. The struggles on both sides to accept and understand the cultures and traditions is both moving and touching. The score, written by the husband/wife team of Steven M. Alper (composer) and Sarah Knapp (lyricist) does an amazingly effective job of explaining this difficult and trying clash of cultures. While the songs are not melodious, they are intellectually probing and penetrating looks into what these characters think and why they react the ways they do to various situations. The recording has a flawless cast in Adam Heller as Haskell, Jacqueline Antaramian as Leah, Walter Charles as Milton, and Cass Morgan as Ima. It's so good to have this wonderful show preserved in such an effective and winning recording.
Grade: A
"ALTAR BOYZ"
Original Off-Broadway Cast
Razor & Tie/Sh-K-Boom Records (7915586050-2)
"Altar Boyz" has been a huge off-Broadway hit apparently because audiences love these "with it" guys and their hot music. I'm sure that listening to the show's recording sacrifices the excitement of seeing these five guys go through some pretty jazzy and hip dance moves and lacks the in-person dynamic they no doubt create in the theater. Listening to the cast recording doesn't do much for me because I don't particularly care for these overly loud and beat heavy songs. The five guys do sound wonderful together and get rich harmonies out of the songs by Gary Adler and Michael Patrick Walker. The songs and the boys are influenced by the Catholic Church even though one of the singers is Jewish. "Altar Boyz" is an acquired taste that I haven't obtained after several listens to this swinging but undistinguished score. Perhaps this is a show you must see to fully appreciate the creativity everyone claims is apparent in the theater.
Grade: D
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PHOENIX (June 19, 2005) - There's little news in this update. Releases continue as listed last time and three are reviewed below. There's still more to come. No big announcements about any cast recordings. It is interesting to note that sales of original cast recordings jumped after the Tony Awards and the shows that got the big prizes were the big winners. It's nice to see cast recordings hit the lists of best sellers once in a while. It will be interesting to see if the sales pickup continues or was it just quick and fast after the Tony Awards. No musical films are scheduled for release either. The rest of the summer will be slow other than the announced recordings I included last time.
Now to this week's CD reviews.
"HAIR"
The Actors' Fund of America Benefit Cast
Ghostlight Records (1968-2)
There have always been "Hair" recordings available and the show marked the first big push for rock music into the musical theater. I wondered why the Actors Fund "Hair" concert made it to a recording. The answer is that it's a very complete recording and it features lots of contemporary musical theater stars who weren't around during the show's original run. The recording is pristine, well sung, and well played by a generous band. Some of the roles are shared and it's certainly interesting to hear different performers take on different songs assigned to one character. There's some unique casting like Jai Rodriguez of "Queer Eye" singing "Sodomy" and Harvey Fierstein's "Air." Many of today's stars who have tended to appear mostly in revivals or old fashioned shows appear here. And everyone does a good job with several outstanding tracks among the 31 that duplicate the show's full score, something that earlier cast albums never did. I especially enjoyed Liz Callaway's "Good Morning Starshine" and Sherie Rene Scott's "Walking in Space." Author James Rado has some interesting observations about his show and the concert in the accompanying notes and there are generous pictures of the benefit performance although this is not a live recording but one done in the studio after the show finished the one public performance. The score is the same early rock sound we all know and remember and the recording is a faithful, complete, and good rendition of a show we rarely see today.
Grade: A-
"THE BROADWAY MUSICALS OF 1926"
Town Hall Broadway by the Year Cast
Bayview Recording Company (RNBW031)
I love the Broadway by the Year series Scott Siegel creates, writes, and narrates. Each season, several of these shows appear and they are all fascinating glimpses into a long ago year on Broadway. We can always research the shows that played any year and find recordings of some of the older shows and most of the newer shows but nowhere do these clever overviews of a year on Broadway exist. Siegel's commentary is always interesting, never intrusive, and always on target by historically putting the shows and the year itself into context. He always finds the best of current Broadway stars to sing the wonderfully generous collection on the recordings. "The Broadway Musicals of 1926" is another winner and more interesting than more recent years that we lived through and remember the shows. Populating 1926 were such biggie talents as Rodgers and Hart, Irving Berlin, Sigmund Romberg, George and Ira Gershwin, and a few forgotten names plus some huge shows like "The Desert Song," "Oh Kay!," and "Castles in the Air." The songs are the old fashioned melodies that we recognize and the lyrics aren't always as sharp as today's except when Hart penned his thoughts to Rodgers' tunes or when Ira Gershwin created memorable words to go with his brother's wonderful melodies. This recording also displays what it was like back then without sound reinforcement as three renditions are sung without microphones. This year also marked the gradual decline of the musical revue and the stronger emphasis placed on a show's book. This year included four Rodgers and Hart shows in the same year, "Peggy Ann," "The Girl Friend," "Betsy," and "The Garrick Gaieties." More than one of the Gershwin's shows premiered, and it marked the debut of several old favorites. The cast assembled give their all to the succession of beautiful songs and include Nancy Anderson, Bill Daugherty, Marc Kudish, Eddie Korbich, Nancy Opel, and Sutton Foster. It's a wonderful overview of a long ago time when Broadway shows sounded very different than today.
Grade: A
"ALL SHOOK UP"
Original Broadway Cast
Sony BMG (82876 69124-2)
I freely admit I have never been a fan of Elvis Presley tunes or his renditions of those songs. The new jukebox musical, "All Shook Up," uses Presley's songs to tell a simplistic story penned by Joe DiPietro about a 24-hour period during the summer of 1955 in "a small you-never-heard-of-it town" in the Midwest. Playing the leads are Cheyenne Jackson, who rocks and rolls just fine simulating Presley, and Jenn Gambatese, who plays his love interest. They and the rest of the cast do justice to the tunes and give us a feel for those bygone days of the '50s. The orchestra plays the songs authentically but if you don't care for Presley's music, "All Shook Up" is a hard listen even though it is well produced. Yes, I grew up in these times but my interest in musical theater songs kept me away from Presley and that then new sound of rock-n-roll. I didn't like it then and I don't like it now. Not my favorite show music album.
Grade: C
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Phoenix, AZ (June 8, 2005) - The new "Candide" DVD of the recent Lincoln Center production is a delight. The score is expertly played by the New York Philharmonic as conducted by composer Leonard Bernstein's protege, Marin Alsop. The orchestra is able to play the lushly orchestrated score in all its glory. The singers, under the fluid and spirited stage direction of Lonny Price, all have a wonderful voices and have great fun with the exaggerated roles they play in this "best of all possible worlds" Voltaire story adapted for the stage. Kristin Chenoweth is a delightful Cunegonde and her "Glitter and Be Gay" solo is masterful if not quite up to the superb perfection of Barbara Cook on the original cast recording. Paul Groves strapping Candide is also commanding and Patti LuPone has fun with The Old Lady even if the music is a bit out of her normal singing range. The large chorus adds and the many supporting players are all tops. The playful staging is a plus for a concert, and this is a commendable version of the ill-fated musical with the stunningly beautiful score. This is certainly a "Candide" to treasure.
The end of the many new original Broadway cast recording releases is in sight. Several more are reviewed below and the rest are target for the next update. Upcoming releases of Broadway-related recordings.
June 14:
"Hair" - Actors Fund September 20, 2004 Concert on Ghostlight
"Lady in the Dark"/"Down in the Valley" - Original Television Casts on Sepia
June 21:
"Bright Lights, Big City" - Off-Broadway Cast on Ghostlight
"Peter Pan" - Leonard Bernstein's version on Koch International Classics
June 28:
"The Boy Friend" - Broadway Revival Cast on Decca Broadway
July 12:
"Sweet Charity" - New Broadway Cast on DRG Records
July 25:
"The Immigrant" - World Premiere Recording on Sh-K-Boom
August 9:
"Back to Broadway: The 20th Anniversary" - Whoopi Goldberg's Broadway show on DRG Records
August 23:
"Ethel Merman: The World Is Your Balloon - The Decca Singles 1950-1951 on Decca Broadway
Now to this week's CD reviews.
"THE LIGHT IN THE PIAZZA"
Original Broadway Cast
Nonesuch (79829-2)
"The Light on the Piazza" is perhaps the best sounding of this season's new Broadway musicals. The ambitious score is a rich one full of great songs by Adam Guettel, grandson of Richard Rodgers and mentored by Stephen Sondheim. Guettel's score has some of Rodgers lush romanticism but it also has its share of Sondheim-inspired creations that challenge our ideas about musical theater tunes. The score seems especially appropriate considering the show's touching story. Set in 1953, it takes place in Italy during Margaret Johnson's trip with her daughter Clara, a childlike woman. Clara, in a stroke of fate, loses her hat that is retrieved by a dashing Italian, Fabrizio Naccarelli. A spirited romance takes place before the inevitable truth about Clara is revealed. The music picks up the spirit of the Italian period setting. The lyrics help define character thinking and plot development stunningly. It's one of the finest new scores I've heard in years for a Broadway show.
Grade: A
"SONDHEIM SINGS VOLUME I: 1962-72
PS Classics (PS-9529)
To celebrate Stephen Sondheim's 75th birthday, PS Classics is releasing several recordings of Sondheim singing his own creations. In some cases, the songs are as they ended up in one of his shows. In other cases, the songs were cut during the show's tryout before the Broadway opening. In some cases, songs show up in later shows, and in some cases, the songs have never been heard again. Sondheim is not the best singer but he certainly puts great emotionalism into his scratchy renditions and he lets listeners hear how he intended these songs to be sung. The first volume, "Sondheim Sings Volume I: 1962-72," contains songs from "Follies," "Company," "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum," "The Thing of It Is," "The World of Jules Feiffer," "Anyone Can Whistle," and "A Little Night Music." The development of the many recognizable songs we all know from Sondheim is fabulous and the conviction with which the composer sells his songs lets us see what he was thinking and what we should expect when we see productions of the shows. Thanks to PS Classics for giving interested musical theater observers this rich and fascinating insight into Stephen Sondheim and his shows.
Grade: A
"THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE"
Original Broadway Cast
Ghostlight Records (7915584407-2)
"The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee" came from an off-Broadway triumph and just captured Broadway by storm. Many consider it the most creative of all Broadway musicals this season. The show may be better live because on the cast album you can hear the clever jabs at societal norms but I didn't find myself laughing during my several listens of the score. It reveals much about the children's psychological development and the thinking kids do as they approach life situations and how they recall the spelling of challenging words. William Finn wrote the score and it's not as complex and pointed as his work on "A New Brain" or "Falsettos." The music isn't memorable but it fun and certainly clever. I'm sure this show is best live.
Grade: B
"WARM SPRING NIGHT"
PHILIP CHAFFIN
PS Classics (PS-527)
Philip Chaffin partnered with Tommy Krasker to start PS Classics, a label devoted to preservation of Broadway music. Chaffin's first solo CD, "Where Do I Go From You?," featured music from the Big Band era. His second solo album, "Warm Spring Night," is a wonderful collection of Broadway show music from musicals as far back as 1924 up to recent show tunes. Chaffin's mellow and lush voice is rich and wonderful as he glides pleasantly through many unfamiliar but lovely songs from unusual shows. The orchestrations are romantic and the 28-piece orchestra under Kevin Stites fine conducting blends flawlessly and beautifully with Chaffin's fine vocals. The wonderful Rebecca Luker duets with Chaffin on a stunning "Sailing at Midnight" from 1944's "Sadie Thompson," written by Vernon Duke and Howard Dietz. There's not a bad song in the 14 tracks and the many unique songs are all lovely finds that should prompt musical theater lovers to search for the complete scores from such shows as "A Family Affair" (1962), ""Sweet Adeline" (1929), "Very Warm for May" (1939), "Lady Be Good," (1924), "Jumbo" (1935), and "Wildcat" (1960), along with such contemporary and familiar shows as "King David," "Oklahoma," "A Little Night Music," and "My Life With Albertine." Two tracks aren't from shows but fit wonderfully with the songs Chaffin sings so beautifully. Chaffin is a dynamic musical theater singer and "Warm Spring Night" is a lovely listen.
Grade: A
"THE PAJAMA GAME"
Original Broadway Cast
Prism Leisure (PLATCD 1323)
"The Pajama Game" is a fine Golden Age Broadway musical that opened in 1954. The catchy score is full of memorable pop tunes of the day and the original Broadway cast is filled with top-notch performers who created memorable characters in this show about strained union relations in a pajama factory. The main love interest is between the new factory boss, Sid, and union organizer, Babe. There's friction because of their opposing sides but, as in all good musical comedies, everything turns out rosy in the end. This pristine entry in the new Broadway Musicals series produced by Prism Leisure contains the familiar Broadway cast score featuring the late John Raitt in one of his best performances and the wonderful Janis Paige as Babe. Many Broadway stalwarts surround the stars. As in all these Broadway Musicals recordings, three bonus tracks have popular entertainers' interpretations of the show's biggest hits. The accompanying booklet has the pertinent material about the show and a picture collage. "The Pajama Game" is a valuable treasure from American musical theater history although the cast album has long been available.
Grade: B
"PETER PAN"
Original Broadway Cast
Prism Leisure (PLATCD 1324)
Mary Martin's most famous appearance was in "Peter Pan" because of the huge television exposure the Broadway cast version received. The Broadway Musicals series has released the charming "Peter Pan" cast recording. Starring with Martin was the wonderful Cyril Ritchard as the evil Captain Hook and the 20 tracks reveal the range and charm of the dreamy material. The bonus tracks here are a great collection of rare recordings from two of Martin's other hit shows including her now classic "My Heart Belongs to Daddy" that made her a Broadway star in "Leave It to Me," and a collection of original excerpts from Martin's "Lute Song." The accompanying booklet has information only on "Peter Pan's" story with some pictures but nothing about "Leave It To Me" or how it made Martin a star and there's nothing about "Lute Song," a different and unique show that marked Yul Brynner's Broadway debut many years before his "The King and I" triumph. The booklet doesn't even give the years of those two shows. A wonderful collection but this series could use improved information especially on the interesting bonus tracks.
Grade: C
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Phoenix, AZ (May 22, 2005) - Nonesuch has delayed the original cast recording of "The Light on the Piazza" for a week so it will now hit stores May 31. May 24 is the American release date of the new Andrew Lloyd Webber London show, "The Woman in White," on EMI Classics. The show is scheduled to hit Broadway next season. Look for my review of this appealing show in the CD review archives.
An interesting DVD this week is the New York "Candide" concert. My copy is on its way and I'll let you know about it after I get to watch it.
Received a review copy of the first in the new Stephen Sondheim series on PS Classics, "Sondheim Sings - Volume 1 1962-72." I've only had a chance to listen to it one time but my interest is certainly high to really digest this release. Sondheim sings his own tunes from several of his shows. Some of the songs are identical to what ended up in his well-known shows; in other cases, we hear songs that were later cut from the shows. His voice isn't great but he puts great feeling into his scratchy renditions and the glimpse into his career is fascinating. Watch for more on this release in future updates.
Now to this week's CD reviews.
"FORBIDDEN BROADWAY"
"SPECIAL VICTIMS UNIT"
"VOL. 8"
Original Off-Broadway Cast
DRG Records (12629)
Back in 1982, Gerard Alessandrini wrote the first "Forbidden Broadway" revue that speared Broadway musicals and plays using tunes from the shows he affectionately attacked. His revised lyrics to the familiar songs got at all the laughable things about Broadway shows, their stars, and the productions. Over the years, he's created several new editions that take off after the latest Broadway hits and misses. The latest version, "Forbidden Broadway - Special Victims Unit, Vol. 8," is the funniest and sharpest in several years and you'll laugh uncontrollably at all the humor Alessandrini drags out of the current crop of Broadway shows. His four-person cast of Ron Bohmer, Jason Mills, Megan Lewis and Jennifer Simard, with a special appearance by Christine Pedi, do some right-on imitations of today's Broadway stars. It's impossible to pick favorites among the 23 tracks as all are amusing and pointedly wicked. No one and no show is spared. I'm sorry I didn't see the revue when last in New York. You'll love the cast recording if you know the current collection of Broadway shows and even if your knowledge isn't complete, there's much fun and lots of humor to enjoy in this exemplary spoof.
Grade: A
"DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS"
Original Broadway Cast
Ghostlight Records (4406-2)
"Dirty Rotten Scoundrels" is trying to create interest in the show by giving away 50,000 copies of the new CD cast recording to ticket-holders at the Imperial Theatre. The album hits stores Tuesday if you aren't in the New York area where the giveaway is going on. The recording should succeed in creating much buzz about the show as it is quite good and very interesting. It's David Yazbek's second Broadway score and it's just as solid as "The Full Monty," his first. The songs capture the feel of the show that is based on the popular film. The cast is exemplary with stars John Lithgow, Norbert Leo Butz, and Sherri Rene Scott all having big solos that showcase the performer and their role. Scott's first solo "Here I Am" is a showstopper. Butz, said to be the show's true star, has several socko numbers, and Lithgow has his moments as well. It's quite a pleasing and pleasant score that makes one want to see the show.
Grade: A
"PACIFIC OVERTURES"
New Broadway Cast
PS Classics (PS-528)
"Pacific Overtures" is one of Stephen Sondheim's most interesting and unique shows. He looked at the American arrival in Japan back in 1853 and traces the sometimes smooth and sometimes tumultuous relations between the countries up to contemporary times. He shows the integration of the cultures from the Japanese perspective. The original production by Harold Prince was a fascinating approach but certainly far from the minimalist Noh staging of the recent Broadway revival staged by Amon Miyamoto, a major force in Japanese musicals. The new cast recording of that production is long at over 75 minutes and very complete. There is much to admire with the excellent cast and their commendable interpretations of Sondheim's telling and insightful songs. As in the production, the Reciter of B. D. Wong, the show's narrator, disappoints in its blandness but this is the only weakness in a strong and forceful cast. The production is conducted by Paul Gemignani, the prime Sondheim musician today, so the score is played with care and rich detail. This cast album is very different than the other versions of the show available and provides different interpretations of the score. It's a wonder that PS Classics decided to record this production that had a limited and not too successful Broadway run at Studio 54. I'm glad they did.
Grade: A
"MAN OF LA MANCHA"
Original Soundtrack
Varese Sarabande (302 066 648 2)
The less said about the miserable movie version of "Man of La Mancha" the better but, for some reason, Varese Sarabande has recently re-released the movie's score on CD. Peter O'Toole's bland Don Quixote and Sophia Loren's disappointing Dulcinea cause the problems but none of the cast is inspired to rise above the stars mediocrity. I haven't a clue why the label went to the trouble and expense of releasing this CD and it's one to avoid as is the DVD version of this dreadful film version of a great musical.
Grade: F
"KISS ME, KATE" AND "LET'S FACE IT"
Original Broadway Casts
Naxos (8.120788)
Cole Porter's "Kiss Me, Kate" was his greatest Broadway show and the appearance of it late in his career after he was assumed to be washed up is an interesting footnote to his up and down career. The show's original cast is brilliant with Alfred Drake, Patricia Morison, Harold Lang, and Lisa Kirk all perfect in the wildly funny and yet moving story of a theatrical troupe and its problematic production of Shakespeare's "The Taming of the Shrew." The cast album has long been available so the new Naxos release doesn't bring anything new to the table other than a pristine version of the old tapes. What is most interesting about the release are the last nine tracks that come from another Porter show, "Let's Face It." The pre-"Kiss Me, Kate" show is a bit of theatrical history. The 1941 show was a popular wartime romp based on a 1925 farce, "The Cradle Snatchers." While the show was popular, it certainly doesn't possess the brilliance of music or lyrics of "Kiss Me, Kate" and shows how inconsistent Porter's many Broadway shows were. This fine Naxos release gives you a nice contrast of Porter on one CD.
Grade: B
"A TIME OF HOPE - BROADWAY 1935-1946"
"CENTER STAGE - BROADWAY 1947-1958"
"PUT ON A HAPPY FACE - BROADWAY 1959-1967"
"BROADWAY MAGIC - BROADWAY 1968-1980"
"THE BRITISH INVASION - BROADWAY 1981-1992"
"BROADWAY TODAY - BROADWAY 1993-2005"
Original Broadway Casts
Decca Broadway (B0004472-02, B0004476-02, B0004477-02, B0004474-02, B0004473-02, B0004475-02)
Decca Broadway has one of the largest and most extensive collections of Broadway original cast recordings in its archives. They were a leader in cast recordings back when they started with "Oklahoma" and Decca stayed a leader in the field until the '60s when Columbia (now owned by Sony) and RCA Victor took the leads in new show recordings. Decca Broadway was born several years ago to take advantage of this extensive collection and they have released newly re-mastered versions of old shows on CDs. The label has also shown a renewed interest in recording new shows and they have preserved several recent musicals. A new bargain series of six recordings traces the history of Broadway shows from 1935 to now through Decca's show collection. The recordings are all short - many are less than 35 minutes - and all include about ten tracks. Many of the selections are standards and are shows that are still available but a few selections are actually unique. There are also some glaring omissions on the series and, of course, any collection like this is always subject to individual likes and dislikes. The first volume, "A Time of Hope - Broadway 1935-1946" includes many popular shows and stars but also has a Carmen Miranda track from her 1939 triumph, "Streets of Paris." Ethel Merman is represented by a "Panama Hattie" track rather than any of her more popular shows from this period. "Center Stage - Broadway 1947-1958" features many big shows from this period during the American Musicals Golden Age but also includes unique tunes from "Texas, Li'l Darlin'," "The Golden Apple" featuring Kaye Ballard's "Lazy Afternoon," "Arms and the Girl," and "The Amazing Adele." Merman's "You're Just in Love" from "Call Me Madam" made the cut. "Put on a Happy Face - Broadway 1959-1967" features several standards although "Consider Yourself" is not from the original "Oliver" cast recording. The unique song is "Henry Sweet Henry's" "Poor Little Person" featuring Alice Playten. My gripe with this album is that a "She Loves Me" selection doesn't feature Barbara Cook who is absent from the entire series. "Broadway Magic - Broadway 1968-1980" has nothing terribly unique except that Carol Channing's rendition of "Diamonds Are A Girl's Best friend" comes from "Lorelei." "The British Invasion - Broadway 1981-1992" but British musical tunes account for only half the tracks. Finally, "Broadway Today - Broadway 1993-2005" includes not all Broadway tracks and nothing that unique. The six albums are a fun listen and prompt a "name that tune and show" game with fellow listeners. There are just a few really unique tracks and lots of familiar standards.
Grade: C
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Phoenix, AZ (May 8, 2005) - A couple of new DVD movies capture the feel of the original Broadway musical productions on screen. "The Pajama Game" used the entire original cast except for Janis Paige who was replaced by Doris Day. It is great fun and most interesting to see so many Broadway cast members recreate their roles. The screen version uses Bob Fosse dances and most of the songs are intact. "Li'l Abner" doesn't have the entire Broadway cast but the film, shot in Hollywood studios, captures the intent and feel of the original production. Again, most of the songs are included. Both films have been released in the widescreen format preserving the look of these movies when presented in theaters.
Haven't received my copy of "The Phantom of the Opera" film DVD with all the extras but I look forward to seeing the documentation of the original stage production rather than the mediocre film adaptation.
Last week and this week I've included reviews of most of the new cast albums from current Broadway musicals. Below is a schedule through the rest of the month with the rest of the cast albums of current or recent shows.
Tuesday - "Pacific Overtures" and "Captain Louie"
May 17 - "Altar Boyz"
May 24 - "25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee"
May 31 - "All Shook Up"
Next update will also include reviews of several re-releases of classic shows plus several new Decca Broadway compilation recordings.
Now to this week's CD reviews:
"DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS"
Original Broadway Cast
Ghostlight Records (4406-2)
"Dirty Rotten Scoundrels" is trying to create interest in the show by giving away 50,000 copies of the new CD cast recording to ticket-holders at the Imperial Theatre. The album hits stores Tuesday if you aren't in the New York area where the giveaway is going on. The recording should succeed in creating much buzz about the show as it is quite good and very interesting. It's David Yazbek's second Broadway score and it's just as solid as "The Full Monty," his first. The songs capture the feel of the show that is based on the popular film. The cast is exemplary with stars John Lithgow, Norbert Leo Butz, and Sherri Rene Scott all having big solos that showcase the performer and their role. Scott's first solo "Here I Am" is a showstopper. Butz, said to be the show's true star, has several socko numbers, and Lithgow has his moments as well. It's quite a pleasing and pleasant score that makes one want to see the show.
Grade: A
"LITTLE WOMEN"
Original Broadway Cast
Ghostlight Records (4405-2)
I didn't like "Little Women" when I saw it in January but I must say that the cast album is pleasant and well performed. The show definitely sounds like an old-fashioned musical from the Golden Age with humable songs. The story, based on the popular novel, is quaint and charming if not exactly an up-to-date musical. The performances are top-notch giving the generally mediocre material a better airing than they deserve. Sutton Foster shines as Jo. Her voice and buoyant spirit are perfectly suited to the sharp and clever character. I'm sorry I missed her performance in January when I saw a mediocre understudy instead. Maureen McGovern is also perfect as Marmee, warm and compassionate just as the head of the household should be. The show is far from a big hit but it does have a pleasant score that is very well performed. "Little Women" may not be the best musical but it certainly sounds good on the cast album.
Grade: B+
"THE BROADWAY MUSICALS CUT-OUTS"
Town Hall Broadway By The Year Cast
Bayview (RNBW030)
The Broadway Musicals By The Year series has produced several interesting cast recordings of unique and expected selections from the years the shows represent. Casts are solid and often inspired. Now comes a CD of cut-out songs from past shows that weren't heard on the cast albums of the respective years. The collection showcases songs from the shows devoted to 1925, 1939, 1940, and 1951. From 1925, five selections represent several remembered and forgotten shows. The highlight is Stephanie J. Block's showstopping "Love For Sale" from "The Vagabond King," a Friml operetta. There are five songs from 1939, all from less than huge hits and all are tuneful and fun. 1940 features two songs, one from the forgotten "Two For The Show" that is well sung by John Dossett. The other comes from Irving Berlin's "Louisiana Purchase," a show rarely staged today. It reveals the Berlin style. 1951 is represented by two "The King and I" songs, both romantic and big solos. Alison Fraser doesn't quite give "Hello Young Lovers" the lush feel it must have but Rebecca Eichenberger gives a big and bold sound to "Something Wonderful," a song style heard in each of Rodgers and Hammerstein's shows. Chip Zien delivers "I'll Buy You A Star," the first act finale from "A Tree Grows In Brooklyn," with touching sincerity. All the shows in this series have been recorded but it often takes quite awhile for the CDs to hit stores. Too bad they can't release each much faster. Let's hope more of the deleted songs get included in future cut-out albums.
Grade: B
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Phoenix, AZ (May 1, 2005) - Lots of cast CDs are to be released in the coming days and weeks. "Monty Python's Spamalot" and "Little Women" are due out Tuesday, but it's "Spamalot" that gets reviewed in this piece:
"MONTY PYTHON'S SPAMALOT"
Original Broadway Cast
Decca Broadway (B0004265-02)
I admit that I'm not a Monty Python fan so the new Broadway musical "Monty Python's Spamalot" had little interest. When the cast album arrived, what a surprise awaited me when I played it! The clever songs are funny and the melodies aren't bad. It's not a great score but there are some amusing slams at musical theater conventions hidden cleverly as the plot progresses. The songs "You Won't Succeed On Broadway" and "Diva's Lament (Whatever Happened To My Part?)" are hilarious and get to the heart of today's Broadway musical problems. The show is "ripped off from the internationally famous comedy team's most popular motion picture, 'Monty Python and the Holy Grail.'" The show tells of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table as they take their quest to find the Holy Grail. The accompanying booklet provides great background on the show and plenty of pictures to give listeners a good idea of what you'll see when you attend it. If you keep your expectations about the new hit show in check, there's a lot to enjoy in "Spamalot" and the cast recording gives you a good idea of the show's humor and inanity.
Grade: A-
"MARY POPPINS"
Original London Cast
First Night Records (CAST CD93)
The 1964 "Mary Poppins" movie remains a classic. It marked Julie Andrews' Academy Award-winning film debut. It seemed like a stage adaptation of the popular P. L. Travers and the Disney film would be anti-climactic. The stage version, produced by Disney and Cameron Mackintosh, opened in London late last year receiving unanimous rave reviews. Now, the cast recording is available and what a refreshing new look at the charming tale about the magical nanny. The popular Richard M./Robert B. Sherman movie score has been used with some deletions and some new twists. There are also lots of new songs by George Stiles and Anthony Drewe that have been successfully integrated seamlessly into the show. It's hard to tell where old songs end and new ones begin because the new music's character fits so well into the familiar classic tunes. Laura Michelle Kelly is an effervescent Mary, charming and caring but sounding not a bit like a Julie Andrews clone. She's bubbly but she makes the role her own at least through the cast album and her treatment of the songs. The rest of the large cast, including the children, sound fine and all have the charm and sparkle necessary to bring off this sweet but pleasant tale with distinction. Based on the recording, "Mary Poppins" on stage is a winner.
Grade: A
"PROMISES, PROMISES"
Original Broadway Cast
Varese Sarabande (302 066 647 2)
Years ago, Varese Sarabande released a CD version of "Promises, Promises," the popular Burt Bacharach musical adaptation of the "The Apartment" film. Unfortunately, sound quality wasn't good and the CD soon went out-of-print. The label has now corrected the problems in a new pristine release of the original cast version. Not only is the sound great, the new booklet has better art and more show information. The score was one of the newest sounding scores on Broadway in 1968 and the cast was superb. It's great to have the show again available on such a good sounding CD.
Grade: A
"DISNEY ON THE RECORD"
Original Cast
Walt Disney Records (61249-7)
The touring "Disney on the Record" sputtered and failed on its brief national tour due to weak business and lack of audience interest in the show that presents a hit parade of Disney music. Surprisingly, Disney produced a cast album. The show had a format and sketchy story. It was set in a recording studio but nowhere in the accompanying booklet does the reported feeble story linking the tunes get outlined. The recording is continuous Disney melodies. The cast sounds good but the medleys aren't particularly interesting and there's nothing terribly creative about them and nothing unique is done to link the songs together. The show must have been deadly to watch as audiences were small and critical reviews were negative. If you love Disney music, this recording may be a joy but if you like familiar music like all these Disney tunes used in clever and creative ways, "Disney on the Record" is best skipped.
Grade: C-
"ROBERTA"
Studio Cast
DRG Records (19073)
You can't go wrong Jerome Kern's lovely "Roberta" score and the 1952 studio cast recording is wonderfully produced by Goddard Lieberson and well sung by a cast that includes several Broadway regulars - Joan Roberts, Jack Cassidy, Kaye Ballard, who went on to fame in "Carnival" and other shows, Portia Nelson and Stephen Douglas. The excellent Lehman Engel conducts and the 12 selections including all of the show's big and familiar hits that frame a simple story about an American college football player who inherits a Parisian dress salon. This "Roberta" is a beautiful listen, a '50s treasure from the time when there were many now famous studio cast albums of major Broadway shows.
Grade: A
"L'HOMME DE LA MANCHA"
("MAN OF LA MANCHA")
Original French Cast
DRG Records (8485)
The original French cast of "Man of La Mancha" featured Broadway's original Aldonza, Joan Diener, and French composer/entertainer Jacques Brel as Don Quixote. This foreign language recording is thrilling. The singing is glorious, the recording contains music not on the original Broadway cast version, and even Diener sounds far better than she did in the Broadway recording. Here, she a lusty but touching Aldonza in the climatic scenes. Brel's Don Quixote is stunning. He's theatrical, lively, and quite stirring. This "La Mancha" is one of the most exciting and dynamic I've ever heard and I will treasure the addition of this recording to my collection. Thanks to DRG Records for realizing the worth of this version and releasing it on this pristine CD.
Grade: A
"TWO'S COMPANY"
Original Broadway Cast
Sepia Records (SEPIA 1047)
In 1952, Bette Davis' Hollywood career had taken a sharp downturn and she was no longer in demand for films. She turned to Broadway to revive her sinking career and starred in an ill-fated musical revue, "Two's Company." The show was a failure but its recording becomes a prize among collectors. Now, Sepia Records has remastered the long out-of-print recording and presents it in a newly issued CD. It's easy to see why the show and Davis failed. She sounds awful and has absolutely no musical sense in the four short numbers in which she appears including a horrible opening called "Turn Me Loose on Broadway." Vernon Duke's score isn't bad, lyrics by Ogden Nash and Sammy Cahn aren't horrific, and the supporting cast around Davis is full of Broadway stalwarts including Hiram Sherman, David Burns, Nora Kaye, George S. Irving, and Maria Karnilova. When Davis took "ill," the show closed. Nothing can save the show, though, but this CD is a hoot and it is an interesting record of one of two Davis' attempts to star in a Broadway musical. The 13-track show is followed by several bonus tracks from "Vernon Duke Plays Vernon Duke" and all of these selections are better than "Two's Company."
Grade: D
"SEVENTEEN"/"HIGH BUTTON SHOES"
Original Broadway Casts
Sepia Records (SEPIA 1048)
Sepia has also released an interesting CD with two complete Broadway shows, "Seventeen" and "High Button Shoes." Only "High Button Shoes" has been available as a CD previously and then only for a short time. Of the two, "High Button Shoes," with a winning score by Jule Styne, his first for Broadway, is the better score and the fine performances of Phil Silvers and especially Nanette Fabray are outstanding on the recording. The story came from Stephen Longstreet's adaptation of his own short stories about his childhood. The show ran for an impressive 727 performances beginning in 1947. It also had fine direction by George Abbott and early Jerome Robbins choreography. Two bonus tracks include two songs from the show done in pop arrangements at the time. The show's best tune, "Papa, Won't You Dance with Me" is great in the cast version with Fabray and also in Doris Day's bonus track. Gordon Mac Rae offers another Fabray tune from the show, "I Still Get Jealous," in an interesting rendition. "Seventeen," about adolescent love, has a delightful score by Walter Kent and has wonderful star turns by a very young Kenneth Nelson and Ann Crowley. This double CD is a quite a treasure.
Grade: A
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PHOENIX, AZ (April 3, 2005) - They will record the off-again, on-again "Sweet Charity" Broadway revival. They haven't decided a record date so at this point it's anybody's guess who will star on the recording. The show begins New York previews April 11 and for the first week, understudy Charlotte d'Amboise will star while Christina Applegate continues to recover from her broken foot. If the recovery and return of Applegate stays on track, she will open the show on May 4. My guess is that Applegate will do the recording even though d'Amboise is said to be a better singer. One hopes the recording will include all the show's dance music plus any new material added for this revival. It could be the most complete "Sweet Charity" recording ever.
DRG has purchased the cast albums of Q Records that include "Footloose," "The Music Man," "42nd Street," and off-Broadway's "Fame on 42nd Street." DRG will reissue these CDs with new packaging and bonus material in 2006.
DRG announced a recording of Whoopi Goldberg's recent Broadway show, "Whoopi." The show was recorded live for a future HBO airing (that is rumored to become a DVD release after the initial showing) so the DRG release will include the entire performance.
DRG promises "many surprises" in its continuing reissue program of Capitol/United Artists, Sony/BMG, and Warner Bros/Atlantic shows from those labels extensive show collections. No specific titles have yet been released. DRG's past reissue schedule has included both shows previously available on CDs and those that are new on CD. Most of the DRG releases do include previously unavailable material.
With the announcement of the "Sweet Charity" recording, most of Broadway's current new musicals and revivals will be recorded except for the "La Cage aux Folles" revival, which recently fired star Daniel Davis who will be replaced in mid-April by Robert Goulet. Perhaps Goulet's arrival will prompt a recording of this show.
The London cast recording of the new hit stage version of "Mary Poppins" will be available domestically at Footlight Records beginning April 8. They are accepted pre-orders now so you will get the first copies when they get their shipment.
Now to this week's CD reviews.
"SOUTH PACIFIC"
Original Broadway Cast
Naxos Musicals (8.120785)
Rodgers and Hammerstein's "South Pacific" is a classic and Naxos Musicals has just released a new CD version of the original Broadway cast recording that includes the original tracks previously available plus eight bonus tracks that include several interesting entries. Sandra Deel is heard singing "A Cock-Eyed Optimist." Deel was star Mary Martin's understudy and she has a charming and vibrant sound. Two tracks from Ezio Pinza's understudy, Dickinson Eastham, reveals that even in 1949, understudies were expected to carbon the performances of the original star. He sounds rich and sure in both "Some Enchanted Evening" and "This Nearly Was Mine." Star Pinza sings Bloody Mary's signature tune, "Bali Ha'i" with the expected richness of his booming voice. Martin sings two ballads dropped from the show, "Loneliness of Evening" and "My Girl Back Home," both solid Rodgers tunes. Both were deleted not because of the melodies but to give the show an appropriate running time. Two show medleys are also included. This is a very complete and wonderful sounding record of one of Broadway's greatest shows.
Grade: A
"SIMPLY HEAVENLY"
Original London Cast
First Night Records (CASTCD 92)
The wonderful London cast recording of "Simply Heavenly," a raucous African-American show, sounds great. The musical is new with book and lyrics by Langston Hughes and music by David Martin. The Young Vic cast is inspired with strong voices as they soar through the gospel, jazz, and blues musical that was nominated for the Olivier Award. If one can complain, the skimpy booklet that accompanies the CD contains almost no show information leaving listeners to fill the gaps about the show's story or the background of the impressive sounding cast. Rumors that this show may come to New York are welcome as it would be nice to have a strong African-American musical again grace Broadway.
Grade: B+
"BURGERTOWN"
Original Cast
Group Effort Studio (No Number)
"Burgertown" is a cute little show with a simple plot about the evils of corruption and the temptations and allures of big franchise money. Set in a lonely Chicago diner that has hardly any business, one of its employees invents the Triangle Burger that sweeps the town and turns the business into a big success. The original owner dies, passing the business to the inventor and his longtime love, a waitress. A sexy new Miss Burgertown arrives and pushes the boss's old flame out as she woos and wins the gullible guy. She later tries to take over the huge franchise business leaving the inventor with the original diner. He reunites with his old flame and every thing ends happily. The score, by Jamey Strawn with lyrics by Christine Jones and a book and story by Ken Jones, in a cute country western style, is breezy and fun. The cast is solid and the show looks to have a future throughout America where we can relate to the concepts the show reminds us of so lovingly.
Grade: B
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PHOENIX, AZ (March 20, 2005) - Not much news this update. The many releases discussed in this column over the past few months are starting to show up in stores. There are lots of new releases to review and I'll pick and choose from the vast selection to keep you abreast of the newest and the best.
The only interesting news is the announcement by DRG Records that they plan to release foreign cast recordings along with the many Broadway cast albums they produce. The first two announced are both French casts with "The Man of La Mancha" starring Jacques Brel and Joan Diener due April 12 followed by "Sweet Charity" starring Magali Noel, Sidney Chaplin, and Collette Marchand but no release date on that one. Apparently, some of the French casts are some of the finest for several Broadway shows. It will be interesting to hear these CDs and let's hope they give us some new unrecorded material from these popular shows.
DRG also plans to record the new Broadway "Sweet Charity" that may be starring Christina Applegate or Charlotte d'Ambroise when it is recorded depending on whether Applegate recovers from her broken foot.
Now on to this week's CD reviews.
"CYRANO"
Original Broadway Cast
Decca Broadway (B0004083-02)
Sometimes a show will not be a big success but a cast recording catches your fancy and it becomes a show you wished you'd seen. Such is the case with the 1973 "Cyrano" that ran just 49 performances. With such a poor critical reception and such a short run, it's amazing the show was even recorded but it is a delight. Based on the popular Edmond Rostand play about the man with huge nose and a love of his cousin Roxana, the show boasts a dashing score by Michael J. Lewis with lyrics by Anthony Burgess. It also had a larger than life Cyrano in Christopher Plummer who sounds so grand on the recording. The score adds life and spark to the story. The song lyrics are witty and bright in keeping with the play's script and the panache the lead talks about. The show has never before been available before on CD and the single disc set includes all the music contained on the original two record set that captured much of the show's infectious score. The accompanying booklet is loaded with pictures and much about the production as well as the musical's source material. I've always loved this score and the new CD has been played to death since its arrival. It may not have been a successful Broadway musical but the recording is a winner to treasure. It's nice that Decca Broadway is willing to release a minor show so new listeners can hear "Cyrano's" delightful score and the fine Plummer performance.
Grade: A
"THE MAD SHOW"
Original Off-Broadway Cast
DRG Records (19072)
The off-Broadway cast recording of "The Mad Show," the successful 1966 revue that ran 871 performances has long been treasured by musical theater aficionados because the fine cast included such performers as Linda Lavin, Paul Sand, and Jo Anne Worley. The revue sketches and the songs capture the irreverent style of the off-center "MAD" Magazine and most of the score is clever and witty. The song parody "The Boy From..." was an early Stephen Sondheim creation and is a delightful jab at bossa nova songs like "The Girl from Ipanema." The cast is bright and clever. It's nice to have this long out-of-print cast recording again available. It's a fun listen.
Grade: B
"BRIGADOON"
Studio Cast
JAY Records (CDJAY 1387)
This update includes reviews of two new CD recordings of Lerner and Loewe's 1947 hit, "Brigadoon." The first comes from JAY Records in a version previously available but with new tracks by George Dvorsky as Tommy. The score is lovely and the recording captures much of the score in a delightful and spirited version conducted royally by Martin Yates featuring the National Symphony Orchestra. This is a stellar version of "Brigadoon" although the still available original cast recording will always have an edge.
Grade: B+
"BRIGADOON"
Studio Cast
DRG Records (19071)
During the 1950s, Columbia recorded studio cast versions of many major Broadway musicals that weren't in its catalog. They were produced by Goddard Lieberson who was responsible for most of the Columbia cast recordings of this period. His studio cast "Brigadoon" was one of his best featuring the then husband-wife team of Shirley Jones and Jack Cassidy. Jones makes a lovely Fiona and Cassidy sounds stalwart and in excellent voice as her lover Tommy. The supporting cast boasts a fine performance by Susan Johnson as a rakish Meg and her two comedy songs, "The Love of My Life" and "My Mother's Wedding Day" are both comic charmers. Also in the supporting cast is Frank Porretta, whose booming voice as Charlie is especially good. This is another fine "Brigadoon." This CD is due Tuesday.
Grade: B+
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PHOENIX, AZ (March 6, 2005) - At 75, Stephen Sondheim is the dean of living American musical theater composers and two record labels plan to release several recordings in conjunction with his birthday as a tribute. Sony BMG Broadway Masterworks will re-release four of his original cast albums - "Sweeney Todd," "Merrily We Roll Along," "Into the Woods," and "Sunday in the Park with George" - with lots of extra material never before available. This series starts May 17.
PS Classics will release a series titled "Sondheim Sings." It consists of Sondheim singing and playing the songs he's written from the beginning of his composing years in 1946. On May 10, the first CD will be released consisting of songs written between 1962 and 1972 and including songs from "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum," "Anyone Can Whistle," "Company," "Follies," and "A Little Night Music." Song tracks include those that ultimately made it into the shows and several songs that were cut before the shows were finalized.
These two series promise much new material from Sondheim's rich career and should be of great interest to lovers of his works.
PS Classics recorded the off-Broadway musical "Lone Star Love" last week for release at a date to be announced.
Now on to this week's CD reviews.
"THE VAGABOND KING"
Ohio Light Opera Cast
Albany Records (TROY 738-39)
Rudolf Friml's "The Vagabond King" is filled with rich melodies and the Ohio Light Opera complete recording, the first on CD, is a delightful listen. The score is packed with familiar songs we've all heard through the years and they are sung with great affection and dedication by the fine cast. The story features Francois Villon, a 15th century poet, who is added to a "king-for-a-day" plot that allows him to defeat France's enemies and win Lady Katherine. It's all swashbuckling fun and the songs are lush with spirited lyrics. "The Vagabond King" is one of his best shows - he also wrote "Rose-Marie" and "The Firefly" - and it represents the lovely operettas that came early in the 20th century on Broadway. "The Vagabond King" is a winner.
Grade: A
"OKLAHOMA"
Original Broadway Cast
Naxos Musicals (8.120787)
"Oklahoma" set the trend of recording Broadway musicals back in 1943. Originally just a partial score was recorded and released on the old 78 recordings. Later, the success of the initial release caused more songs to be recorded and an entire package was released. The recording was a best seller and was converted into a LP and later into a CD. The show was also Rodgers and Hammerstein's first show and established their place as leading creators of Broadway musicals. Now, Naxos Musicals has re-released the wonderful original Broadway cast recording of "Oklahoma" along with seven bonus recordings from the era. Included is the "Oklahoma: Symphonic Suite" arranged by Robert Russell Bennett and recorded in 1944 by the Philharmonic Orchestra of Los Angeles. There are also four selections from an "Oklahoma" recording featuring opera stars James Melton and Eleanor Steber plus two tracks featuring John Charles Thomas from the same recording. The score is without flaw and the original cast is perfect. The added tracks are also wonderful reflections of the score with different interpretations and the Symphonic Suite is also a choice representation of the score and one often heard in symphonic pops concerts. You owe it to your Broadway collection to add this excellent compilation of prime "Oklahoma" recordings even if you have other versions of the Broadway cast.
Grade: A
"MY HEART BELONGS TO DADDY"
MARY MARTIN
Sanctuary Records (CD AJA 5513)
Mary Martin was one of Broadway's greatest musical theater stars and a new compilation of her best recordings from her career through 1951 is a wonderful collection of her finest musical theater moments. On "My Heart Belongs To Daddy," she also sails through other pops and blues tunes with her impeccable style and panache. There's even a song, "Get Out Those Old Records," that she sings with her son, Larry Hagman. There are many Cole Porter selections including her first triumph, "My Heart Belongs to Daddy," plus a flip and fun "I Get A Kick Out of You." There are also songs from musicals Martin never performed. Of course, her four famous "South Pacific" songs are a feature of the CD. For Mary Martin lovers, this is a must CD.
Grade: A
"OUT OF THIS WORLD"
Original Broadway Cast
Prism Leisure (PLATCD 1276)
It's hard to imagine now, but Cole Porter's "Out of This World" was not a hit when it first opened in 1950 because it was compared with Porter's great "Kiss Me, Kate," a huge hit. The original cast recording has been re-released as part of a continuing series of Broadway shows from the British label Prism Leisure. The score is wonderful and includes some of Porter's finest work. The plot was set on Mount Olympus and was silly requiring the willing suspension of disbelief but the cast was top rate and the score is now considered a fine one. The CD includes two bonus tracks including "From This Moment On," a song cut from this show but added to the film version of "Kiss Me, Kate." There's also a Frank Sinatra recording of one of this show's biggest hits, "I Am Loved." Sometimes it's years later before a score is appreciated and "Out of This World" is one such Cole Porter classic and having it available again is a joy.
Grade: A
"BARK!"
Original Coast Playhouse Cast
Barbarian Records/No Number
It was with some trepidation and disdain that I put on the new cast recording of "Bark!" I thought this would be a cheap takeoff of "Cats" featuring a different pet. The score isn't perfect but some of songs are clever views of humans by perceptive dogs. There's also a funny view of opera by a dog that enjoys the weekly Metropolitan Opera broadcasts with her master. The show is a big hit in Hollywood where this cast recording comes from, the Coast Playhouse. Based on this recording, one assumes the show is fun in person.
Grade: C+
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PHOENIX, AZ (February 20, 2005) - For the last update, I listed an extensive list of show music CDs anticipated in the next few months. For this update, I preview upcoming DVD releases of musicals. The list is long and impressive with many releases featuring "extras."
On Monday, "A Night on the Town," a 1983 television movie starring Elaine Paige and featuring Cole Porter songs, will be released. Unfortunately, this is a Region 2 DVD and won't play on American DVD players. Tuesday is the release date for the movie version of "On A Clear Day You Can See Forever," starring Barbra Streisand, the 1955 musical "My Sister Eileen," plus the 1945 film of the Broadway play that later became a musical, "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn."
March 1 brings the HBO special, "Kathy & Mo Show: Parallel Lives," a show that played New York and has life in regional theaters. On March 15, five movie musicals, "The Band Wagon," "Bells Are Ringing," "Brigadoon," "Easter Parade," and "Finian's Rainbow" will be available. These titles will also be released as a collection. The 1993 television "Gypsy" starring Bette Midler will also be released March 15. March 22 brings the film version of Tom Stoppard's play," Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead." March 29 will see two musicals released in original cast filmings, "Duke Ellington's Sophisticated Ladies" and the off-Broadway revue, "Tintypes."
April 19 brings "Darling Lili" starring Julie Andrews, "The Grass Harp," and "L'il Abner," with "Billy Rose's Jumbo" set for April 26.
On May 3, the film version of "The Phantom of the Opera" will make its DVD debut as will the 1946 "Anna and the King of Siam," and "Long Day's Journey Into Night," starring Jack Lemmon and Kevin Spacey. The New York Philharmonic concert of "Candide" starring Kristin Chenoweth arrives May 17.
Planned but without specific release dates are a special edition "An American in Paris," "Blithe Spirit," and 50th anniversary editions of "Oklahoma!" and "The Sound of Music." A 60th anniversary edition of "State Fair" is also in the works.
Now on to this week's CD reviews.
"THE GAY LIFE"
Original Broadway Cast
DRG Records (19069)
In the liner notes to the DRG release of "The Gay Life," a 1961 Broadway musical failure, star Barbara Cook states that she's not sure why the show failed although she reiterates that the weak book and a male star, Walter Chiari, who couldn't act might be the culprits. Cook also states that the show was her first which featured her name above the title and that the Howard Dietz and Arthur Schwartz score provided her with several wonderful song hits including "Magic Moment," "Who Can? You Can!," "The Label on the Bottle," "This Kind of Girl," "Something You Never Had Before," "You're Not the Type," and "I Wouldn't Marry You." Her lovely, lilting soprano, at the peak of her Broadway reign, sails through these charming and melodic tunes. The show was based on Arthur Schnitzler's "The Affairs of Anatol," the role played by Chiari, and the script details his many loves. What a charming score from the bygone Golden Days of the Broadway musical. Cook sounds lovely. The cast album was briefly available on CD years ago and it's nice to have it back even if you are never likely to see a revival of the show.
Grade: B+
"THE BOY FRIEND"
Original London Cast
Sepia Records (SEPIA 1042)
The London cast of "The Boy Friend" may not have made the splash that the later Broadway version featuring Julie Andrews did, but the charming show and it's affectionate parody of the roaring '20s is delightful. Anne Rogers played Polly in London and later played Andrews' big role in "My Fair Lady" in the United States. The CD includes a collection of selections from other London shows including "The Girl Friend," "Hit the Deck," and "No, No Nanette."
Grade: B
"WEDDING IN PARIS" & "CAN-CAN"
Original London Casts
Sepia Records (SEPIA 1041)
It's an unusual pairing: the London cast recordings of the Broadway musical by Cole Porter, "Can-Can," and a show that never made it to America, "Wedding in Paris." They are still delightful hits, both from the 1954 season. "Wedding in Paris" is about a Canadian lass who travels to Paris to marry. On the ship to France, she meets many interesting people and learns more about life. The score is charming and pleasant if undistinguished. The London "Can-Can" sounds different than the Broadway version but it still preserves Cole Porter's wonderfully Gallic-influenced score. There is a bonus track from "Wedding in Paris'" lead Anton Walbrook and several from "Can-Can" star Edmund Hockridge.
Grade: C+
"AFTER THE BALL"
Original London Cast
Sepia Records (SEPIA 1043)
Noel Coward wrote many London operettas through the early '50s. Most were not well received and his 1954 adaptation of Oscar Wilde's marginal play "Lady Windermere's Fan," "After the Ball," was no exception. Oh, the melodies are lovely and his words are sharply witty but the addition of tunes just slowed down a very meandering play and the entire thing was not successful. It's good to have the London cast album again available because the songs are fun and clever plus the cast sings them charmingly. The show never made it to America and it's easy to see why. The CD has eight bonus tracks from other Coward and Melville/Novello shows of this period and they are interesting to listen to if undistinguished.
Grade: C
"BROADWAY'S FABULOUS PHANTOMS"
Lucky Lai Productions (LLP10000)
Featuring 11 actors who have played the lead in Andrew Lloyd Webber's "The Phantom of the Opera" on Broadway, this CD presents one song from each artist. None of the selections are from the "Phantom" but many are from other Broadway musicals. All these artists sound wonderful even though they each have distinctive voices. That they have all successfully played "The Phantom of the Opera" is interesting as there isn't just one type of voice that can handle the demanding score. It's hard to pick favorites from the many fine performances here but I especially enjoyed Gary Mauer's "This Is The Moment" from Jekyll and Hyde," Davis Gaines' stunning "Ol' Man River," Mark Jacoby's "So In Love" making me wish he would do "Kiss Me, Kate," and Kevin Gray's "It's My Time To Shine." Michael Crawford does "Charlie" from his musical triumph during his pre-"Phantom" career. If there's an objection here, it's that the CD is so short - less than 40 minutes long, and it doesn't include all the Broadway Phantoms.
Grade: B
"FRANC D'AMBROSIO'S BROADWAY"
LML Music (LML CD-176)
Franc D'Ambrosio boasts in his solo CD, "Broadway," that he's played the Broadway Phantom longer than anyone else. While this may be the case, his singing is not distinguished in the 16 selections here that include many musical theater favorites. His voice isn't that pleasant and his accent is distracting. He creates no definitive versions of the songs and even the one number from "Phantom," "The Music of the Night," is a letdown. I find it interesting that the longest running Broadway Phantom isn't included on the previously released disc suggesting that perhaps his lengthy run isn't an indication of the quality of his performance. This solo CD is definitely best left unplayed.
Grade: D
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PHOENIX, AZ (February 6, 2005) - Lots of thrilling news this update on new Broadway and London musicals that will be released this spring. There are also lots of old shows set for new or first-time CD release:
PS Classics recorded the just closed Broadway revival of "Pacific Overtures" and plans to release the CD in May. With recordings of the original Broadway cast, London cast albums, and, now, this latest version, there will be several nearly complete versions of this interesting Stephen Sondheim show about the opening of Japan to the west. Financing for this recording was unsure until just recently so it's good that the resources were secured.
Decca Broadway promises to record "Monty Python's Spamalot" before the Broadway opening for a May release. This show promises to be the biggest Broadway hit since "The Producers" so this cast recording is most welcome.
Ghostlight Records will record the new Broadway musical of "Little Women" on February 28 for a promised early April release. The show received lukewarm reviews and its long-term status isn't yet known but at least a cast recording will preserve it.
Frank Wildhorn's "Dracula" isn't getting a cast recording but a studio version is planned so this season's big dud show will be available. Details are sketchy about when this recording will be made.
A recording of the new edition of "Forbidden Broadway: Special Victims Unit" is planned by DRG in April.
Bayview will release "The Broadway Musicals of 1960" in its continuing series of the Broadway concert tributes to various past Broadway seasons. The label also has "The Broadway Musicals of 1926," "The Broadway Musicals of 1935," "The Broadway Musicals of 1949," and The Broadway Musicals of 1963" planned as well. The September "Hair" Actors Fund concert is set for release on Sh-K-Boom later this month.
First Night Records will release the London cast recording of "Mary Poppins" in March. The show is a huge hit and a Broadway staging is being planned.
A selective list of old shows set for CD release includes "The Gay Life," "The Mad Show," the 1957 Columbia studio "Brigadoon" album featuring Jack Cassidy and Shirley Jones, "Roberta," also with Jack Cassidy, and "A Family Affair" all on DRG; "Cyrano," the 1973 Broadway cast "Cyrano" and "The Consul" on Decca Broadway; JAY's long-promised complete "Brigadoon;" "Georgy" on Original Cast Records; plus "Jubilee," "Whoopee," and "Spring is Here" on PS Classics.
Who says Broadway show recordings aren't popular if this list of new and old show releases comes to pass.
On to this week's reviews of new cast recordings:
"THE FROGS"
Original Broadway Cast
PS Classics (PS-525)
The expanded Broadway production of Stephen Sondheim's "The Frogs" includes several new songs by the composer and a new book by star Nathan Lane. The show was received tepidly by New York critics and my opinion of it was similarly mixed. Some of the show was fun and witty but much of it seemed long and drawn out as the Aristophanes 405 B.C. comedy was expanded to accommodate Lane's character Dionysos, the Greek God of Wine and Drama, as he traveled to the underworld where he witnesses a debate between George Bernard Shaw and William Shakespeare about theater's future. Susan Stroman's staging was exaggerated tomfoolery and much of the show was silly. The Sondheim score, both the original compositions and the new ones, weren't the composer's best creations and the cast album plays blandly and is lackluster since the material wasn't the greatest. It's good that PS Classics preserved the show so historians can point to a good example of a lesser Sondheim work and even comic master Lane comes across as sparklingly antic with mediocre material. The CD does include a generous 48-page booklet with production photos and several interesting essays. The large cast is strong but wasted. For Sondheim lovers, it's an important recording but most show music lovers will find it disappointing.
Grade: C
"NEWSICAL"
Off-Broadway Cast First Edition
NEWSical, LLC (No Number)
The off-Broadway topical revue "NEWSical" does for contemporary headline news what "Forbidden Broadway" does for current Broadway shows. It's a funny, breezy, and clever look at current news and the bright humor and creative twists on news leaders is amusing. The recording boasts "First Edition" suggesting that if the show runs for long it will have to be updated with references and reflections of the latest headlines. This edition goes after the recent election with slaps at George Bush and John Kerry plus many references to Hillary Clinton's political ambitions. Martha Stewart gets her own segment that turns her well publicized life into a musical, while Dr. Phil, America Online, the latest drug crazes, and Liza Minnelli get their own witty spoofs. It's all very humorous and it lets us laugh at the nonsense of our headlines. It will be interesting to see if this revue weathers an extended run and if the author can keep the satirical material fresh with attacks on future news.
Grade: B
"MARY POPPINS"
SPECIAL EDITION
Original Soundtrack
Walt Disney Records (61202-7)
The Special Edition release of the "Mary Poppins" soundtrack is a two-disc set with a wonderful booklet about the charming film and lots of beautiful pictures of the restored print that was recently released on DVD. The first disc includes the lovely score featuring the fine movie cast featuring Julie Andrews' Academy-Award winning performance as the clever governess. Included are several new and extended tracks that have not previously been released. The second disc is a real waste. It's titled Bonus Material and includes rather boring discussions of the "Mary Poppins Story Meetings" plus interviews with Andrews at the time of the film's original release plus the composer's reflections about their work on it. Too bad a single disc release isn't available so you can skip the dull added material. The film's re-release on DVD just intrigues theatergoers waiting for the American arrival of the stage musical version of the show that is so highly touted.
Grade: A for the Soundtrack, D for the Bonus Material
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PHOENIX, AZ (January 23, 2005) - Three new recordings of interest will be released Tuesday.
PS Classics has the cast recording of "The Frogs," the Nathan Lane starring revisal that played New York last summer to tepid reviews. The early Stephen Sondheim musical was updated and expanded with a few new songs by the composer and new material by Lane. I'll review it in the next update.
DRG releases "The Magic of Diahann Carroll." The star of "No Strings" and the Canadian "Sunset Boulevard" did two solo albums in 1960 that are linked on this new CD. "Diahann Carroll: The Andre Previn Trio" has some musical theater selections and "The Persian Room Presents Diahann Carroll" includes limited Broadway selections but lots of contemporary pop hits from the release year. That will be included on the next update as well.
Finally, the Ohio Light Opera releases a two-CD complete recording of Rudolf Friml's operetta, "The Vagabond King."
An interesting DVD is also scheduled for release on Tuesday. The documentary "Try to Remember: The Fantasticks" arrives with interviews from composer Harvey Schmidt, author Tom Jones, and original off-Broadway star Jerry Orbach, who played The Narrator. Since it boasts deleted scenes, the excerpts from "The Fantasticks" must be from the film version.
Britain's First Night Records releases the Chichester Festival cast recording of "Just So" for the first time on CD on January 31.
On to this update's reviews of new cast recordings:
"BROOKLYN THE MUSICAL"
Original Broadway Cast
Razor & Tie (7930182930-2)
I've recently returned from Broadway where I saw "Brooklyn" among the nine shows I attended. The musical is a sophomoric storytelling by street people of a simple daughter-finding-her-lost-dad tale. It's not a very interesting or well-staged musical and the songs are hackneyed rock tunes played loudly but sung by the energetic but small cast of five principals. The song lyrics, though, are so banal that they are deadly. The cast album recreates the show's music faithfully and if you like booming tunes sung blastingly by the cast, this may be your show album. The musical is geared for young, non-theater-going audiences who were enraptured by "Rent" and that's the group that attended the performance I saw. For regular theatergoers expecting a Broadway musical, this isn't your show. Star Eden Espinosa has big singing pipes and can belt out a tune with the best of them. Ramona Keller has the comic role as the aging pop diva challenged by Espinosa who is searching for the father she never knew because he abandoned her mother in Paris. It's a ridiculously stretched idea for a full Broadway musical and the cast album will appeal to those who relish this type of music and not traditional musical theater material. I didn't like the show or the CD.
Grade: D
"WONDERFUL TOWN"
New Broadway Cast
DRG Records (94776)
The stories of Donna Murphy's frequent and prolonged absences from the Broadway "Wonderful Town" revival are well known. Replacement star Brooke Shields got strong reviews and for some unknown reason, DRG Records decided to record Shields' Ruth and her new co-star, Jennifer Hope Wills' Eileen, dropping the tracks into the previously released revival recording. Murphy was solid in person even if the role wasn't her best but there's no question that her vocals were superior to Shields as was Murphy's co-star. Shields is certainly competent but does nothing particularly unique or interesting with the songs and the big unanswered question remains why this new recording was made. Many replacement stars are so much more interesting and yet never get their own recordings. It's hard to imagine why the money was spent. The revival certainly doesn't eclipse the original Broadway cast with the dynamic performance of Rosalind Russell and if you want the extra material recorded from the revival, you're better off with the Donna Murphy version. Murphy may have missed lots of performances, but she was the superior singer.
Grade: C
"KISMET"
Original Broadway Cast
Prism Leisure (PLATCD 1279)
"CAN-CAN"
Original Broadway Cast
Prism Leisure (PLATCD 1278)
The Broadway Musicals Series issued by the British label Prism Leisure adds two classic Broadway musicals to the continuing series. From 1953, there's "Kismet," the operetta that used Alexander Borodin compositions to create such classic tunes as "Fate," "Baubles, Bangles and Beads," "Stranger in Paradise," "And This Is My Beloved," plus "Sands of Time," is a melodic delight. The original cast that featured Alfred Drake as the poet Hajj and Joan Diener as Lalume was one of Broadway's finest. The story was simple but the tunes were overwhelming. Added to the release are two pop versions of show songs, Peggy Lee's "Baubles, Bangles and Beads" and Tony Bennett's "Stranger in Paradise." Also in 1953, came Cole Porter's raunchy Parisian tale "Can-Can" starring the French dynamo, Lilo, and featuring Gwen Verdon's first major role. The score is delightful Porter, not his finest, but still a pleasure and joy to hear. The extra tracks here include excerpts from the original London cast recording of the show, items I have not previously heard. All in all, the Prism Leisure releases of Broadway musical recordings with bonus tracks, all with good sound, are a welcome addition for show music lovers. One hopes they soon will tackle rarer Broadway shows.
Grades: A- "Kismet" and B+ "Can-Can"
"GUYS AND DOLLS"
Original Broadway Cast
Naxos Musicals (8.120786)
Another new label releasing old Broadway cast recordings is Naxos Musicals and their version of "Guys and Dolls" isn't distinguished and is readily available but the extra tracks are rich indeed. The bonus "Guys and Dolls" tracks include "The Three-Cornered Tune" by Dinah Shore, a tune not included in the original Broadway material, and Morey Amsterdam's "Sue Me." Additional bonus tracks by composer Frank Loesser include six "Where's Charley" songs featuring the Broadway and London casts as well as pop singers. Since this musical wasn't recorded because of a Musician's Union strike, having these tunes in one place is a welcome. Two versions of the show's famous tune, "Once In Love with Amy," featuring Ray Bolger from the New York cast and Norman Wisdom from the London cast is outstanding. The recording also boasts the composer and his first wife, Lynn, in "Baby It's Cold Outside" from 1949s "Neptune's Daughter," a show I've haven't previously heard. It's only one song, but it's a treasure nonetheless.
Grade: B
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