5 comments about Enrique.

1. I received this cd fairly quickly...in about 5 days with basic shipping and when I read this seller's info on this cd they claimed it was like new, but when I got it I was a bit skeptical that it would play because the back of the cd looked as though they tried to buff out scratches with some sort of machine...it does play though...EXCELLENT in fact. And for the price...amazing deal! -Lily_like_the_flower@yahoo.com



2. I love the songs on this cd. He sings with such emotion. True love songs..



3. The best songs on this album is Rythm Divine and Ritmo Total!Just those two songs alone makes me give it 5 stars!



4. Being the son of legendary Julio Iglesias it was no coincidence that Enrique would become a singer aswell. Blessed with good looks, charisma and a smooth romantic voice, Enrique debuted with this English album in 1999. Many of the hit songs here are latin uptempo's like "Bailamos", "Rhythm Divine", "Alabao" and "Oyeme" that perfectly came in a time where Latin music sold well to the English market (Ricky Martin, Marc Anthony, Jlo, Shakira) but there are also great powerballads like "Be With You", "I Have Always Loved You " and "I'm Your Man" and covers like Bruce Springsteen's "Sad Eyes" and top notch duets "Could I Have This Kiss Forever" with Whitney Houston. There are also spanish versions of 3 songs towards the end, including the big hit "Rhythm Divine". From a commercial point of view, "Enrique" had it all and it sold really well also. Enrique was the artist on everybody's lips in 1999-2000. He would later release "Escape" that was also good and lastly "Seven" in 2003 that was a dissapointment. Now it seems like he's spending more time being a celebrity and dating hot models then being a good singer. A shame. "Enrique" is an exellent pop album though, recommended.



5. I had to buy this cd again because my other one got ruined- totally worth the money- this cd is the best

5 comments about 20th Century Masters: The Best of Lesley Gore (Millennium Collection).

1. September 5, 2008
   
   If you are old enough to recall that statement as I do which was a recurring record appraisal on Dick Clark's American Bandstand coming from Philadelphia first then besides having the aches and pains that I do, you will remember Leslie Gore as a first rate recording artist. You and I knew Leslie Gore music by heart and I swear I still listen to a downloaded play list of selections of Leslie singing, Maybe I Know, Judy's Turn To Cry, It's My Party and You Don't Own Me, all included on this CD referenced. My favorite Leslie Gore song is Maybe I Know which clearly exhibits her amazing vocal ability to carry that beat almost as if it was catapulted from a cannon. Leslie could run with that beat and stay with it. By the way we both grew up in the City of New York so both of us walk the walk and I am enamored of all the fabulous performers from the City because they all started out as street wise hometown favorites. Leslie was also independent and that was way ahead of her time. Although the songs, like her contemporary, Gary Lewis were simplistic and mostly teen simpatico, young or old, I am recommending a big buy rating for this Leslie Gore CD. Even my maturity will never deter me from listening to a Leslie Gore track,-The beat goes on.
   
   jayadlermusiccritic



2. This CD had a lot of my favorite hits. I am extremely pleased with my buy.



3. Ms. Gore is truly a work of art. Her voice is at its finest: clear, crisp, perfect pitch, full finished, and a range that satisfies even the harshest critic. Some songs are great, all are good. The downsides to the songs have nothing to do with Ms. Gore. The lyrics are typical of the time period. They are especially sappy, and simple. After you get in sync with the singer's voice and then really listen to the lyrics, you hear how basic they are. Boy troubles, disappointment, and individuality are "given" issues of teenagers. The other drawback is the lenght of the songs. All are less then 3 min. which is also typical of early rock & roll. But, it would be great to hear more of each song. Ms. Gore was such a strong talent at an unbelievably young age, I imagine songs were cranked out quickly to keep her in material and in the public eye. Face it, Ms. Gore could make anything sound great. I highly recommend this CD as a good introduction to Lesley Gore or as a flashback to the past for middle-aged Baby Boomers, such as myself.



4. I didn't know she was still alive.
   
   My memories of high school in the middle 60s, bad as they are, are made worse by my recollections of these mindlessly stupid, ugly songs, and her horrible shrill-voiced delivery. She can't sing a lick and the songs were stupid. Even at the age of 13 I realized this. I cannot fathom the appeal of such wretched, pointless songs. Why anyone would want to go back and listen this garbage again is beyond comprehension.



5. Leslie Gore's fame came like a bolt from the blue: a pretty, sixteen year old from Tenafly, New Jersey, she was in the right place at the right time to record "It's My Party" under the supervision of Quincy Jones--and the result was one of the great hits of 1963, a bouncy, danceable, and extremely memorable bit of teen-angst rock and roll.
   
   "It's My Party" was such a monster hit that it is tempting to think of Gore as one of those singers who appeared and then vanished with equal speed. That isn't true. She survived the 'English Invasion' and released about twenty top forty hits throughout the 1960s; it was not until the advent of the psychedelic movement that her star began to fade. Like most compilation recordings, THE BEST OF LESLIE GORE includes the most obvious selections: "Judy's Turn To Cry," a musical sequel to "It's My Party;" "She's A Fool;" the surprisingly feministic "You Don't Own Me;" "That's The Way Boys Are;" and "Sunshine Lollipops and Rainbows," among others. The latest recording included is "California Nights," which charted in the top twenty in 1966.
   
   Although Jones drifted out of Gore's career fairly early on, most of her best-sellers followed the pattern he established: bouncy, bright, deeply layered in terms of music and back up vocals, and all of it very much the "All American Girl" singing about love, loss, and forever. It was all very slick--and perhaps too slick for her own good, for when styles began to change Gore came to be regarded as excessively 'white bread.' All the same, it would be a mistake to dismiss Gore's vocal talents. She did not have a broad range, nor did she have a sophisticated approach to her material (indeed, the material hardly allowed for it)--but she had an impressive directness, and more than that she had her own voice. Even in an era awash in 'girl singers' and 'girl groups,' Gore never sounded like anybody but herself, and no one else ever sounded quite like her. She stands apart from the crowd.
   
   Like most items in the 20th Century Masters series, the songs here could use a remaster--but I didn't find them as badly presented as some have claimed. This is a nice little collection that would be a very good introduction to the Girl Next Door of the early 1960s. Recommended.
   
   GFT Amazon Reviewer

5 comments about La Cage Aux Folles: The Broadway Musical (1983 Original Broadway Cast).

1. I bought this to learn the music for our production of "la Cage" now I take it out at parties & everyone dances around the room to some of the songs. Great if you are having a "French" dinner party.



2. The product came quickly and in excellent condition. Doing business was easy
   and very satisfactory. This was the second time I purchaced a product through
   Amazon and it was easy and satisfactory and I won't hesitate to continue to
   use Amizon.



3. This is one of the best soundtrack I have. It is outrageously funny as well as extremely touching. I recommend it highly



4. Was very pleased with the beautiful music and the quick delivery time.



5. this CD is a very good introduction to the musical score from a very succesful stage musical ~ if you like good musicals this is a must have.

5 comments about The Producers (2001 Original Broadway Cast).

1. I saw the making of the CD on TV. The cast does a great job. I have the CD in my car stereo and listen to it often.



2. This recording is great! I saw the play in november and loved the music. I bought the CD a little later and i am still listing to it. The cast are all great singers and did a great job. The songs are witty and catchy and never get old. You should listin to this.(Warning:See the movie or the play before you listin to this, you might hate it if you've have not.)



3. While I'll abmit that Nazi regemes and Hitler are probably some of the least funny thing in the world...i have to admit that the words to Springtime for Hitler are hilarious, just like the rest of the songs on this cast recording.
   
   While "The Producers" Is not as musically complex or mature as other "Best Musical" scores of recent years (Spamalot, Avenue Q, Hairspray,) It is funnier than all of those put together. Nathan lane And Matthew Broderick Are perfectly cast in their roles and Caddy Hoffman is great, and when Ulla belt, she Belts!
   the rest of the cast is amazing.
   
   As for the song I can't think of one that I don't like, They are all great!
   
   I would hope that the fact that the show makes light of Hitler doesn't turn you off, because you would be missing somthing great.



4. My theatre group went to New York two years ago, adn we did a marathon 4 shows in 3 days. Each show got progressively better, finally culminating in seeing Nathan Lane and Matthew Broderick's final performance of "The Producers." I have been a fan of Brooks' since I saw "Robin Hood: Men in Tights" 5 years ago. Naturally, I was beyond excited to see the show he made of his most brilliant film.
   
   I was not disappointed. It was funny, racy, and downright fabulous. I bought the soundtrack at intermission and have been listening to it ever since. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves musicals. Lane and Broderick play off each other perfectly, Cady Huffman has one of the best belting voices I've heard in ages, and the songs are actually FUNNY.
   
   Aside from raving about one of my favorite shows, I would like to address the comments made about the show downplaying Hitler and being racist towards Germans. In no way does this show downplay Hitler's terrible deeds. Bialystock and Bloom make several comments about how disgusted they are about the play- the fact that it is so insulting to our sensibilities is the reason why it was chosen in the first place. I am Jewish and have studied the Holocaust and WWII for years. I was not offended in the least, nor did I feel the Brooks was promoting or trivializing Hitler's war crimes. Brooks himself is Jewish for god's sake.
   
   Second, I see nothing in the show that is racist towards Germans. Yes there is a Nazi in it who is German. How is that racist? The Nazis went all over the world after WWII- it is possible that several ended up in New York City. And no one will argue that some Nazi's were German. You might as well say that the show is discriminatory towards Swedes, or gay directors, or producers, or the countless number of things made fun of in the show.



5. This is by far the funniest thing I have ever seen. I got the chance to see it on broadway with Lane (unfortunatly not Broderick) and most of the original cast. For some reason, certain people seem to think this play is racist. First off, the whole thing is pure 100% SATIRE. I'm 15 and I can realize that. Also, are you aware that Mel Brooks is jewish? Yeah, so lighten up. I realize what Hitler did, and it will never be forgotten. But my God, get a sense of humor. In case you never saw the play, the Bavarian guy breaks his leg (making "It's bad luck to say good luck on opening night funny) and is replaced by the gay director for the song "Springtime for Hitler". ITS HILARIOUS! BROOKS MADE HITLER A GAY GUY! And why do you think he did that? Geeze... just lighten up!
   
   So about the CD...awesome. I love these songs, and I am very much looking forward to seeing the movie version of the musical coming out in late December! GO SEE IT!

5 comments about 20th Century Masters - The Millennium Collection: The Best of Connie Francis.

1. There were only two women in my life at the age of 16; Patsy Cline and Connie Francis. But for them I might not have ever found such a love of music, and particularly country music. It's always difficult to find a quality album with so many great songs from your favourite artist. This one is gold. Connie sings pretty much her best sad songs here that will make you cry. If "Breaking in a brand new broken heart" doesn't raise the goosebumps you will never understand country music, yet this album crosses over time and time again. Country, pop, blues ... I don't know. I just know it doesn't get much better than this.



2. This is what got her started and it a must for all Connie Francis lovers



3. Great, tight collection of some of Connie's best classics. Sit back, relax & enjoy!!!!!



4. Love Connie, Love this CD. Any fan of Connie Francis needs these songs in their collection.



5. OK. What "seasoned" person does NOT remember Connie Francis? Come on. Step right up. Concetta Rosa Maria Franconero, an Italian girl born in 1938, and from Newark, NJ BLASTED her way through the late 50s and early 60s with that powerful and very beautiful voice and a string of hits. She has some gorgeous songs on this album, 12 tracks in all, totaling somewhere around 30 minutes--not very long but great songs.
   
   A very beautiful song is "Mama," sung in Italian and then in English. If it doesn't make you cry, you need sensitivity training. This song alone is worth having the album for.
   
   Of course, there is "Where The Boys Are," from the movie of the same name. The song brings back memories of Ft Lauderdale, Florida during Spring vacation. Fortunately, I had a cousin down there so I went down when I was 17 and spent about 2 weeks with her. I remember I kept looking for that club with the big fish tank from the movie and nobody down there knew anything about it--must have been Hollywood BS. Yes, the place was MOBBED with people and No, I did not get into any trouble. Anyway, the point is that I had fun and this music brings back fond memories like that. Many of us danced to "Who's Sorry Now" and "Don't Break the Heart That Loves You" in school dances, when we were not dancing to the Temptations and the big-brass groups. "Stupid Cupid," "Lipstick on Your Collar" and "Vacation" were cute songs, too. Other great songs were "My Happiness," "Among My Souvenirs," "Everybody's Somebody's Fool," "My Heart Has a Mind of Its Own," and "Breakin' in a Brand New Broken Heart".
   
   I had to grab this CD back from my 34 year old son long enough to rip it to my Gizmo (MP3). Even he likes it. He has the same broad-based love of music as his Momma.
   
   This is a beautiful CD and a "STROLL" down Memory Lane. (OK. Who remembers the dance "The STROLL" and will ADMIT it?--for the young whippersnappers, that was in the same time period as this CD.)

5 comments about "Neil Diamond - 12 Greatest Hits, Vol. 2".

1. Not a big Neil Diamond fan, but I love the song "America." This one song makes purchasing the CD worthwhile.



2. Neil Diamond produced some really beautiful feel-good music, and really memorable stuff from the golden age of the 70's. His powerful voice combines with strong melodies to produce really immortal music.
   This collection showcases some of his materpieces from the late 70's.
   Notable is the powerful Beautiful Noise, the melancholy Hello Again, the laidback Hello Again, the romantic Desiree, the famous duet with Barbara Streisand, You Don't Bring Me Flowers, the triumphant patriotic America, and the passionate Love On The Rocks.
   This certainly is a mood lifter, and takes one back to a better, simpler time.



3. I listen to this one over and over and never tire of it. Actually
   had friends over and played it and one of the women agreed with
   me that this one puts us in the mood. His voice has a certain
   quality to it that makes me just sit back, forget what I'm doing,
   and just listen. The hits I remember him for are all here to
   bring back wonderful memories.



4. I enjoyed this CD even though many songs were new to me. The more I listen, the better I like it. What's not to like about Neil Diamond?



5. I recall this period of Neil Diamond's hits between about 1978 and 1982. I still like Yesterday's Songs and that smooth groove. I love September Morn and its relaxing pace--sounds like you could hear it on a quiet breezy day with the windows open. America means so much now in its patriotic theme. I still love Love On The Rocks--unlike anything I heard on the radio back in 1980--it's so adventurous when I hear it. I like the rock stomp on Forever In Blue Jeans. But let's cut the chase to his classic duet with Barbra Streisand in You Don't Bring Me Flowers. At times, it's humorous, playful, romantic and emotional. It probably led to a huge duets boom in music in the late '70s as a lot of artists did duets. These days, the term most used is collaborations for these kinds of duets. But it's a pretty song, one of Neil's best songs since his upbeat '60s pop. Diamond's new album "12 Songs" has been selling well and it might get him back on top like he did with these songs on Volume 2.

5 comments about The Legendary Bobby Darin.

1. This album literally lives in my car CD player. It is one of the best collection of Bobby Darin songs (hits and other songs) found on one CD, and I never tire of it.
   I must admit, my favorites are the "swingers", "On The Street Where You Live", "Once In A Lifetime", "More", "Charade" , but I am also fond of "Call Me Irresponsible", "The Good Life", "If I Were A Carpenter" and "Softly As I Leave You". To be honest, I never cared very much for his "teeny bopper" songs such as "If A Man Answers" which is found on this album. And, as one of the few Bobby Darin fans who dislikes "Splish Splash", I am glad that song is featured in a medley of other songs. But including these songs only proves how well this collection showcases the versatility of Bobby Darin and the wide variety of popular music he sang.
   
   
   
   
   
   



2. If you love Bobby Darin, this is a great collection of his music. A few of the songs were recorded live, which is fun because it shows his sense of humor. The sound quality is not up to todays standards, but gives you that old LP sound, which I like.



3. I like ths CD. I wasn't a big fan until I saw the movie "Beyond the Sea". I like Bobby Darin, but I enjoyed the "Beyond the Sea" CD with Kevin Spacey singing a little bit more.



4. Few performers led a more exciting and ultimately tragic life like that of Bobby Darin's. Not expected to live past 16 due to a heart condition, Bobby managed to squeeze an extra 26 years and become one of the most legendary performers in American popular culture. Darin was a gifted singer who could master jazz, showtunes, rock, pop, folk and gospel like few others, and was also successful as an actor, scoring a Golden Globe and an Oscar nomination for his motion picture work, and was also skilled at dancing and impersonations.
   
   The 24 song "The Legendary Bobby Darin" is a most excellent snapshot of Bobby's versatility and dedication as an artist. Each song is sung with passion and soul, as Bobby ventures from showtunes ("Hello Dolly", "On The Street Where You Live") to great American standards (his amazing version of "More", "Moon River", "Call Me Irresponsible") to folk ("If I We Were A Carpenter"), all done with his trademark style and dedication. Only Frank Sinatra was able to trump Bobby Darin's talent as a vocalist, and even Frank couldn't nail "Mack The Knife" half as good as Bobby.
   
   Because this collection is marketed by Capitol, early Atco hits like "Dream Lover" and "Queen Of The Hop" are omitted, while "Mack The Knife", "Beyond The Sea" and "Splish Splash" are included in live versions, all of which demonstrate that Bobby was just as, if not more, exciting onstage as he was on the turntables.
   
   The liner notes by Will Friedwald are absolutely a joy to read, and the remastering job is fantastic. Right now, Bobby is in Heaven, hopefully thrilled to know how loved he still is today.



5. Bobby Darin was a consummate entertainer who could reach out to his adoring audiences and lead them wherever he wanted them to go. He knew his life would be a short one because he had a bad heart; and every time he sang he poured so much genuine feeling and soul into his performance it touched people everywhere. This CD gives us a generous sampling of just some of Bobby's greatest hits recorded both live and in the studio; and every moment of this CD proves Bobby was more than a male singer--he was a force.
   
   The CD track set begins with "Once In A Lifetime;" the drums at the beginning signal the beginning of a high energy number--and, sure enough, Bobby delivers this number with a faster than usual tempo. The power of Bobby's voice makes this the ultimate rendition of "Once In A Lifetime." The romantic ballad "More" follows; Bobby again speeds up the tempo along with musical arranger Richard Wess. The effect is an especially energetic rendition of "More." The lush musical arrangement works wonders, too.
   
   One live number that stands out would have to be "Beyond The Sea" recorded in concert in Los Angeles in 1973. Bobby delivers this with passion and high octane energy; the audience enjoys every minute of it, too! You also get a live recording of "Mack The Knife" when Bobby performed at The Flamingo in Las Vegas in November, 1963. Bobby has a playful and very positive rapport with his audience even though these days one or two of his comments would be considered embarrassingly dated. The high quality control of the actual song "Mack The Knife," however, stuns me as Bobby Darin delivers this flawlessly.
   
   "On The Street Where You Live" from My Fair Lady gets a much faster than usual tempo from arranger Richard Wess and Bobby; but I think you will enjoy this number very much. "Hello, Dolly!" gets the royal treatment from Bobby and the musicians; Bobby delivers this as if he feels genuinely thrilled to see his friend Dolly again after many years. The tempo of "Hello, Dolly!" eventually speeds up to the normal tempo; and the arrangement complements Bobby's vocals perfectly. Bobby's sensitive interpretation of "The Good Life" touched me greatly; and Bobby again sings "Moon River" with panache and sensitivity. Great!
   
   "Call Me Irresponsible" shines brightly like a golden nugget; and "Softly, As I Leave You" glistens like gold! The backup chorus on "Softly, As I Leave You" enhances the beauty of this number. In addition, "Venice Blue" tells how a man is so sad that his love affair is over than even the entire city of Venice turns blue before his very eyes.
   
   There is another live track in which Bobby performs a playful medley of four of his greatest earlier hits: "Splish Splash/Beyond The Sea/Artificial Flowers/Clementine." Finally, the last track on the CD is another live track recorded in November of 1963 when Bobby truly believed that this would be his last live concert. (He subsequently changed his mind.) "The Curtain Falls" doesn't merely explore Bobby's feelings as he ends this particular concert; it also makes the perfect ending to this album. As Bobby sings this ballad about the end of his concert career; we also recognize that there is another meaning: "The Curtain Falls" gives us the perfect ending to this album as well.
   
   The liner notes include an informative essay about Bobby Darin and his career by Will Friedwald; and you get excellent photos of Bobby, too. The liner notes also provide the song credits and recording dates.
   
   Bobby Darin remains a formidable force whose star still shines brightly long after his life ended. Bobby will always be a legend; and long after most "celebrities" are dead and buried we will still remember Bobby very fondly. I highly recommend this excellent CD for Bobby Darin fans; and people who enjoy classic pop vocals will cherish this one for ages to come.
   
   Enjoy!

5 comments about Crazy for You (1992 Original Broadway Cast).

1. Exactly what I was looking for and at the right price. This is unavailable in any shop and Amazon made it so easy to get. Unfortunately I opted for the Express delivery on this Item which was a very big mistake. UPS are responsible for the Express delivery and after paying three times the price of the actual disk, UPS failed to deliver on time and I had to go and collect from their Depot.
   Great Job as usual Amazon but I think you need to reconsider who you trust with your delivery - I for one will think twice about buying from Amazon again, I have no confidence in delivery anymore.



2. If you enjoy musicals and the music of George Gershwin, then this is the CD for you. One terrific song after terrific song. Looking forward to seeing this musical live in the Boston area in April, 2008.



3. The strengths of this recording are the very full orchestration, the voices are great and the diction is amazing. You can hear every word clearly. The only complaint I have is that the recording level is a little uneven so I found myself turning the volume up and down from time to time. Its a marvelous musical with lots of classic tunes and it makes me happy to listen to it.



4. Jodi benson appears in one of very few, but marveolus broadway performances!The music on this recording even downplays bensons work in disneys " The Little Mermaid"! It is and energetic fun-filled musical, yet it is based solely upon the one emotion that is so ellusive, yet so desired,love. Benson's rendition of someone to watch over me is absolutely amazing!overall this CD is well worth the money you put forth on it. I would also suggest the music book too for musicians as myself---Robert Ellis,14



5. The original cast of Crazy For You is superb. The songs are of course amazing. What Gershwin song isn't? Jodi Benson will blow you away with her beyond amazing voice and talent. Highlights include "Someone to Whatch Over Me", "Could You Use Me", "But Not For Me", "I Got Rhythm", "Embraceable You", and "They Can't Take That Away From Me". Every song on this CD is practically perfect. You won't go wrong if you purchase Crazy For You.

5 comments about Duets/Duets II: 90th Birthday Limited Collector's Edition.

1. If you ever loved or like Frank Sinatra then you will want this collection of his favorite duets with some of the biggest stars of today so if you loved swing then buy your copy.And remember the name Duets & Duets 2 90th birthday limited collector's edition by Frank Sinatra.
   
   Rondall Banks



2. I'm a big Sinatra fan, so I like any music he sings, these two cd's has Sinatra singing with some of todays big stars. Such as Aretha Franklin,
   Neil Diamond etc. These cd's are something every music fan should have



3. Okay, I'm sick of going along with popular opinion just to garner helpful votes and kudos from other reviewers. I'm going to come out and say it: I Love Frank Sinatra's "Duets" Albums!
   
   Phew, that felt good. But yes, it's true. Regardless of popular perception, regardless that The Chairman didn't actually sing directly in the studio with any of his partners, regardless that some songs are indeed not quite up to par, and regardless that Frank's voice is merely 1/4 of what it used to be (which is still twice as much as any other singer at their peak), the two "Duets" albums are solid if flawed testaments that even towards the end, Frank still had it.
   
   The first album was a major hit upon its release in 1993, going all the way to Number 2 on the charts and quickly becoming the biggest selling album of Frank's career. Frank is paired here with a wide pallette of artists both past and present, from Luther Vandross to Barbara Streisand, from Tony Bennett to Bono and everything in between. Such a wide range of artists is bound to produce a wide variety of results, but the majority of the songs prove to be well worth the effort.
   
   The highlights are indeed notable. Luther Vandross adds his soulful style to "The Lady Is A Tramp", while Frank and Barbara Streisand engage in a playful and tender reading of "I've Got A Crush On You". "You Make Me Feel So Young" with Charles Aznavour is bouncy and joyous, while "Summer Wind" with Julio Inglesias bristles with poignancy and pathos. Bono and Frank overcome misgivings from critics about their partnership and team up for a most excellent rendition of "I've Got You Under My Skin". Liza Minelli follows in the footsteps of her mother as her and Frank stride with style through "I've Got The World On A String", while Anita Baker adds some soulful scatting to a seductive "Witchcraft". And to hear Frank and Tony Bennett finally come together on record for "The Anthem", "New York, New York", is a music fan's dream come true.
   
   The album's low point come from Frank's female partners. Gloria Estafan fails to ignite sparks on "Come Rain Or Come Shine", while Natalie Cole is surprisingly lukewarm on "They Can't Take That Away From Me". Carly Simon provides a good counter vocal to Frank on a medley of "Guess I'll Hang My Tears Out To Dry / In The Wee Small Hours Of The Morning", but she seems somewhat out of place. Darn shame too, because Frank gives an achingly powerful performance on this track. Most dissappointing is Aretha Franklin on "What Now My Love", which should've been a highlight considering the amazing vocal talents, but Aretha goes far too over the top with "What Now, What Now, What Now..." and it overpowers Frank.
   
   This leaves us with the closing track and the highlight. After Kenny G performs a surprisingly beautiful sax rendition of "All The Way", we quietly fade into an achingly beautiful latter day rendition of "One For My Baby (And One More For The Road)", which Frank sings with an uninhibited amount anguish and remorse, his weather beaten voice adding to the song's pain. I almost cried listening to it.
   
   "Duets II" came not long after. Realizing how big a success the first volume was, Capitol Records as well as Frank's inner circle were eager to get him to return to the studio for follow-up. Once again, Frank did not actually record with any of his partners (with the likely exception of his son), but once again it does not hurt the record.
   
   Unlike the first "Duets" album, this cd is solid the whole way through, with one exception. Beginning with a rousing "For Once In My Life", done with Motown legends Gladys Knight and the one and only Stevie Wonder that resonates with joy and excitement. Next, Louis Miguel takes to the skies with Ol' Blue Eyes with a blazing "Come Fly With Me". Things slow down for a gorgeous teaming with Patti Labelle on "Bewitched", the two singers blending together perfectly. Jon Secada proves a good foil for Frank on "The Best Is Yet To Come". Linda Ronstadt shows up next for a lovely "Moonlight In Vermont".
   
   Old friends reunite as Frank reunites with Antonio Carlos Jobim as they soar through a torrid "Fly Me To The Moon". This performance is an absolute blast to hear on the record. To hear these two forces of musical nature together again is nearly earth shattering, and the recording is nothing short of brilliant.
   
   Chrissie Hynde shows up next for a seductive and swingin' "Luck Be A Lady". Hynde is one of the last people I'd ever expect to be partnered with Frank, but her deep, husky voice is near-perfectly matched with Ol' Blue Eyes here. Willie Nelson and Frank have a ball with "A Foggy Day". Again, Willie, unlikely a choice as he is to sing with The Master, is great. The one low point coems next, as Steve & Eydie turn in a tepid "Where Or When", stealing most of the spotlight from Frank, and in a negative fashion (the intro is nice, though). Things pick up as one Frank's last remaining 1940s' rivals, the great Lena Horne, joins The Chairman for a passionate "Embraceable You". Next comes an unlikely highlight, as Jimmy Buffet of all people joins Frank for an exciting "Mack The Knife". My only qualm with this track is that I wish Bobby Darin could've lived to join Frank on this number. A medley of "How Do You Keep The Music Playing" and "My Funny Valentine" with Lorrie Morgan is soulful and endearing, but things cook when father and son team up for a blazing "My Kind Of Town" (though the version lacks a bit without the "Now This Could Only Happen To A Guy Like Me..." intro). Closing the album originally was a fine rendition of "The House I Live In" with Neil Diamond. As a bonus, Willie Nelson shows up for "My Way", which is good enough if a bit weak.
   
   Overall, I give "Duets" a 4.5. The hate it gets is for the most part unwarranted. It proves that in the end, Frank still had it, and he could still overpower even the best of them. God Bless Him.



4. It is so good!!Right up there with Tony Bennett's CD, Although Tony's is a lot better.



5. Whenever I listen to my original limited edition Duets & Duets II, I really feel good as the combo of both are a great musical trip with The Master and a cast of many magnificent duet partners...it doesn't matter that these wondrous duets were created in various studio locations around the country because it is all done so well and the listener can feel an affectionate connection with all of the great duet partners plus arrangements and production values are the best and vocal performances richly varied & brilliant! My only regret was that Duets III didn't happen as this type of greatness will never happen again and I would have loved a Barry Manilow duet as I know they were great fans of each other...Sinatra started his Manilow collection from the beginning. Standouts abound & naming a few "I've Got You Under My Skin" with Bono is incredible, "Come Fly With Me" with Luis Miguel a stunning take on this classic, "Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered" with Patti LaBelle moving and spectacular, "Moonlight In Vermont" with Linda Ronstadt dreamy and romantic, "What Now My Love" with Aretha a vocal tour-de-force, a big-band jazzy treatment of "Fly Me To The Moon" with Jobim a complete classic, "Where Or When" with Steve and Eydie a winning and classic trio, "Embraceable You" with Lena Horne moving and sentimental, "Luck Be A Lady" with Chrissie Hynde completely intoxicating, "For Once In My Life" a soulful and inspired paring with Gladys Knight and Stevie Wonder, "How Do You Keep The Music Playing?/My Funny Valentine" with Lorrie Morgan torchy and soulful, "I've Got A Crush On You" with Barbra Streisand a glorious vocal blend, "I've Got The World On A String" with Liza Minnelli showcase two music legends in peak form and "All The Way/One For My Baby (And One More For The Road) with Kenny G is a haunting and masterful performance that stays with one long after it's over...this magnificent collection is a must have for anyone without these great collections featuring superb sound and classy packaging...Mr. Frank Sinatra we love and miss you and thank you for leaving behind this tremendous musical treasure for all of us life-long fans to savor and enjoy over and over again!!!

5 comments about Once On This Island (1990 Original Broadway Cast).

1. When I discovered this amazing musical I just had to buy the CD!!!! One day while I was looking up The Little Mermaid on Wikipedia I saw that in the Adaptations section along with well known versions such as the Disney version and the Anime version I saw the entry "The musical Once on this Island is a Caribbean version of the Little mermaid set in the French Antilies" or something like that. Then I clicked on the link provided and read the summary, after that I was hooked! I went to find my mom to tell her to get me this CD, after a few tries she said my dad would take me to get it after church the next day; That day came and as soon as I popped the CD in my portable CD player and it just blew me away! After that I downloaded some of the songs from the London version on itunes and it didn't really live up to my expectations; the Ti Moune sounded like she swallowed a cotton ball! and the Papa Ge sounds like he's screaming (there go my two favorite characters) but with the Broadway version I am fully obsessed.
   
   The songs of the Island;
   
   1. We Dance- splended opening number! I can't stop dancing to it! The song is sung by storytellers (who become the characters of the story) who introduce the Gods of the Island; Asaka(Mother of the Earth), Agwe (God of Water), Erzulie (beautiful Goddess of love), and Papa Ge (sly demon of death), and also describes the two different worlds; the poor peasants, and the wealthy Grand Homme.
   
   2. One Small Girl- this song describes how Ti Moune (the heroine of the story) was saved by the Gods from a flood when she was a little girl and sheltered in a tree, only to be found by caring peasants who become her parents.
   
   3. Waiting for life- In this song, Ti Moune (now all grown up) expresses her need to find out the special reason that the Gods saved her.
   
   4. The Gods heard her prayer/Rain- the title is the only exlanation needed for the Gods hear her prayer. Rain however is sung by Agwe who causes a Grand Homme named Daniel to crash his car from driving too fast
   5. Pray- Ti Moune finds Daniel and nurses him back to health ignoring the fear of the peasants and anger of the Gods.
   
   6. Forever yours- my favorite song on this whole CD! Ti Moune pledges her love to Daniel and then later on in the song gives her life to Papa Ge, the demon of death so that he will spare Daniel.
   
   7. Sad tale of the Beauxhommes- kind of pointless but still fun to listen to, it describes Daniel's family history........that's all I have to say.
   
   8. Ti Moune- Daniel's family has already taken Daniel back to the Hotel his family owns and Ti Moune begs her parents to let her go after him even though reluctant they agree.
   
   9. Mama will Provide- Ti Moune runs into Asaka the mother of the Earth who tells her that anything she needs "Mama will provide".
   
   10. Some say- the storytellers discuss what Ti Moune's journey was like, different opinions are tossed around. This song while fun to dance and sing to really makes you wonder along with the storytellers.
   
   11. Part of the Human heart- very inspirational should-be classic! Once Ti Moune is with Daniel Erzulie the Goddess of love sings this beautiful piece.
   
   12. Pray (reprise)- The Grand Homme's gossip about Daniel and Ti Moune behind their backs.
   
   13. Some Girls- Daniel sings this song to Ti Moune. Very romantic! Makes any girl wish that the guy they love would sing this to them.
   
   14. The Ball- A ball is held at the Hotel Beauxhomme where one of the guests (Andrea) confronts Daniel about Ti Moune.
   
   15. Ti Moune's dance- At Andrea's request Ti Moune dances for all of the guests and does a very good job (although you don't see the dance on the CD obviously) the music of this piece is very unusual but much fun as well.
   
   16. When we are Wed- Andrea congragulates Ti Moune on her success and asks her to dance at her (Andrea's) wedding. Saying she will be marrying Daniel.
   
   17. Forever yours (reprise)- after Daniel explains to Ti Moune that they could never marry and leaves her heartbroken and alone, Papa Ge comes to claim Ti Moune's life but he says that she can return to her old life if she kills Daniel............She can't do it.
   
   18. A Part of Us- Once Ti Moune dies, the Peasants and the Gods (including Papa Ge) mourn her death. Made me cry all the way through.
   
   19. Why we tell the story- A much more uplifting song than a part of us.
   The Gods turn Ti Moune into a beautiful tree that watches over Daniel forever. the storytellers then explain all of the reasons to tell this wonderful tale.
   
   The reason I gave that summary of the songs was in hope I'll be able to give this musical more attention than it currently has and in hopes for it to someday return to Broadway (I really want to see this musical live but sadly it doesn't play anywhere near my area!)



2. This review will probably get a lot of "not helpful" responses, because it does not agree that "Once on This Island" is the best thing for Broadway musicals since sliced bread.
   First, and positively, it begins with an excellent story. But in this case, I believe it was the story, not the music, that carried the show to a respectable 469 performances in 1990.
   For the most part, I found the music to be repetitive. I felt as if I had listened to the same thing over and over. I also sensed some obvious influences from "Pacific Overtures."
   Do not throw the recording away. It is still interesting, especially if you follow the libretto as you listen. The libretto pretty much tells the story, but because of the accents, much is indistinguishable without the words before you.
   Also, I was surprised, as I read the previous reviews to this recording, to see so many references to high school and even middle school productions of "Once on This Island." With the complexities of the Caribbean setting and the intricacies of the music, this seems to me to be beyond the capabilities of most schools. Be that as it may!



3. I have used this product in a high school musical theater class setting....many of the tunes included are great performance songs my students will be using in our upcoming end of the term concert... they love this unique musical style, so do I...



4. My wife and I saw this show on Broadway during its too-brief run. The show was nominated for 8 Tony Awards, but didn't win in any category.
   
   The musical is all sung, so it translates well onto CD. It features the original Broadway cast, including LaChanze, who won a Theater World Award for her performance as Ti Moune.
   
   Listening to the CD, one is transported into a world of gods and humans, love and death, vengeance and redemption. The score, by Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty ("Seussical the musical" and "Ragtime"), is a joyful, spirited mixture of Caribbean and pop-tinged songs, sung with animation and passion.



5. I wasn't expecting to receive the items just yet (cause I was informed of 8 weeks to deliver). But i got it just aweek and a half from the time i ordered. Its all in perfect shape and i'm enjoying every minute of it!