5 comments about The Prophet.

1. 
   This is a very good poem and pretty well read by Richard but the music ruins it.Its like all "words of wisdom"a religion of music and chanting forms around them and eventually an ideology.



2. I bought this CD, thinking I was buying a digital version of the highly poetic reading of Kahlil Gibran's "The Prophet," read by Paul Sparer, produced by Random House in 1996.
   
   My mistake. The Richard Harris recording is pretty good, though it lacks the poetic force of the Sparer reading.
   
   Richard Harris' recording sounds (not surprisingly, given Harris' career) like a self-conscious Shakespearian play, or a long, musical (yes, there is music, lots of it, some quite church-ish) sonnet. [And this comes from a guy who loves the Noble Bard, having completed a degree in English Lit...] Having listened to the Harris recording several times, I think it will gather dust quickly on the shelf. Even though Gibran's masterpiece is read word-for-word, I found the nearly constant blending of music with the words intrusive to the point of distraction.
   
   Ultimately, I feel there is too much going in the background--both the Shakespearian overtones and the music--for the voice of the artist--Kahlil Gibran, remember him?--the great Lebanese writer?--to come through.
   
   I still hope that Random House re-releases their version.



3. As the title to the review states this CD is truly... Magestic, Inspirational, Beautiful.
   
   There is none to compare; the words of Kahlil Gibran's The Prophet given voice and music, given a life that moves you as you listen.
   
   Purchase this CD; listen, be moved and I have no doubt you will love the experience.



4. The musical background combined with the sage words of Gibran being read by Richard Harris creates a spiritual event of grace and depth. I have owned this recording since back in the old LP days, and wanted to give this as a gift to a friend who was dealing with some major losses. It is inspiring, touching and helps remind us of the power of soul, love and "God". It would make a wonderful gift for anyone you care about, including yourself. Spiritual without preaching, non-demoninational, just lovely sensitive perspectives on life and living. Enjoy!!



5. The audio version of Kalil Gibran's "The Prophet" (read by the late, great Richard Harris) has been a favorite of mine through years past, and it continues to be my favorite inspirational audio cd above many. I boldly quote passages from it, and it is not unusual to hear me singing snatches from the medley on 'love' and 'children' and 'marriage.'
   I first discovered the prophet many, many years ago after the President of my country died and the radio station was playing this thing. It blew me over gently and I bought the LP.
   Since then I have grown into saying to people, "You do not need to go to church to understand how to live this life; just listen to "The Prophet."
   I have gone on Amazon more than once and have bought copies of "The Prophet" and have had them delivered to people I care about---people with life issues---people not at ease with everyday life.
   This is an exellent bit of work, and I'm damn happy that it's still available on Amazon.
   Many have said to me, "Harold...you have a good heart." This compliment comes to me often. Why? Because through the words of Kalil Gibran (and out of the mouth of Richard Harris), I practice 'giving'...I give so that I might live. This audio work, has changed my life.
   Get it; it may change yours also.

5 comments about Tommy (1975 Film).

1. this album is absolutely amazing, I couldn't go without listening to this, it really represents the movie without even having to watch it. I would reccomend buying this without a doubt.



2. It's bad enough to have the poorly chosen actors trying to sing but to have insanely bad performances from the likes of Eric Clapton and Pete Townshend is unacceptable. What were they trying to do ? Dumb down to Jack Nicolson's singing ? At least Roger Daltrey sings the best of his career here. Really, he is the only reason to see the movie or listen to this tripe. Why and how did Pete manage to mangle 'Amazing Journey' and 'Sparks' so horribly ? And Clapton must have been going through withdrawals while singing 'Eyesight To the Blind.' Oh yeah - Elton does a great job. But skip this until the very end of your Who related purchases. Please.



3. Pete Townshend's classic performed by The Who, Tina Turner, Eric Clapton Elton John, Ann-Margaret, and Jack Nicholson. Doesn't get much better than that! The movie is awesome too.



4. First things first: (1) You're truly a Classic Rock fanatic, (2) You're a crazy Soundtrack collector, (3) You like classic Rock bands playing their best tunes with other Classic Rock monsters = You will love this album!
   
   Certainly, it could appear quite strange to give a good comment on a Classic Rock masterwork (The Who's "Tommy" is a classic, no doubt about it!) on which the original composers/performers (i.e. The Who) play the tunes with other great musicians/performers (Elton John, Tina Turner and Eric Clapton are all here!). All together with non-musical superstars like Ann-Margret and Jack Nicholson...
   
   The final product may sound a little bit 'eclectic', but it certainly will satisfy most of Classic Rock/Soundtracks fans! However, please be warned: if by any chance you get the European edition of this album (Dutch?), it may sound a little bit 'opaque' (just like if it had been recorded on a very old and sworn cassette tape).



5. Okay, I'll admit it, I had the LP back in the day and really don't care all that much for most of it, but I upgraded to a CD of it anyway just for one song. I love the film version of "Sparks" so much I couldn't help myself. What a trip!

5 comments about Aspects of Lloyd Webber.

1. I purchased this with some trepidation given what others had said, and I'm so glad I did. I love Lloyd Weber's music and Barrowman's voice, so put the two together, and I can't lose. Several of these songs are duets, but I found that didn't bother me at all, especially on "All I Ask Of You", "High Flying Adored", and "Too Much In Love To Care". ("Think of Me" is the only one I questioned because he contributes very little to it.) I already loved "Whistle Down the Wind" and "Sunset Boulevard" from John's "Reflections of Broadway" CD, and "Love Changes Everything" is simply beautiful and my hands-down favorite from this disc.
   
   I understand the criticisms about the duets and the (2) tracks that repeat on other CD's, but I found this a wonderful addition to my collection with several beautiful songs not available elsewhere. It's worth mentioning that this was his first CD, and from what I've read, it was originally a "mini-CD" of only 6 tracks, with 3 added later on a re-release. I'm so glad I didn't pass this over.



2. As a long-time fan of John Barrowman, having seen him in "Anything Goes" in 1989 in London and many productions since, I generally buy everything he records. But, whoever has been guiding him in his recording choices has made very few good decisions. Many of his recordings sound like they have been done in someone's garage, particularly his recordings on the Jay label. If you have seen him live you know that his voice is much more impressive than any of the albums reveal. All of that said, it sounds like several of the tracks on this cd were not re-recorded but simply lifted from previous albums and that is a disappointment. I have been waiting for one album that is a complete new recording session done in a real studio. This isn't it. But I still bought it.



3. I found this album to be quite delightful. John as done quite a few of Andrew Lloyd Webber productions in London West End Theatres and he can handle the music very well. His voice is a lyric baritone with high notes into tenor and low into a nice baritone. He has a lot of emotion in his voice. He is currently on a concert tour of the UK and getting rave reviews. If you have never heard him sing YouTube has a lot of his music on videos.



4. I couldn't agree less with the other reviewer. The album starts with a wonderful rendition of "Sunset Boulevard" . Neither too soft nor too light. The two tracks from "Phantom of the Opera" were taken from the 2nd studio recording with John Barrowman as Raoul. They are IMO superior to the recording from the original London cast because unlike in the OLC production the voice of Christine doesn't overpower Raoul but has them on equal levels, which makes the songs a real listening pleasure. If you love musicals and a strong vocal performance then get yourself this CD. I highly doubt you will be dissapointed.



5. While John Barrowman has been active in theatre, television and movies for over 15 years, I admit that I did not "discover" this man until Dr Who, in the form of Captain Jack. A few months afterwards, after I tracked down his Cole Porter CD, I "discovered" his voice and was blown away.
   
   As for this particular CD, a collection of songs from various Lloyd Webber works, I found it to be a delightful addition to my (at the moment) small John Barrowman collection.
   
   If you are a fan of musical theatre and a fan of Lloyd Webber, then you have probably already have these songs in your collection. What makes this a "must by" is Sunset Blvd. John Barrowman states in a segment of "The Sound of Musicals" that this role was important to his career. I found his interpretation of the various songs to be intelligent and entertaining.

5 comments about South Pacific in Concert from Carnegie Hall.

1. This concert version of the broadway show is awesome in many respects. The pairing of Reba McEntire and Brian Stokes Mitchell at first seemed so "strange/different" It could not have been a better combination. They were "in" character throughout - not easy in a concert performance. The chorus numbers were outstanding and Alec Baldwin was, well, he was just a hoot!
   Finally Brian Stokes Mitchell's rendition of "This Nearly Was Mine" is probably the best, most heartfelt that I have ever heard.



2. I was so surprised to see that you had this CD available. I had lost the one I had and could not find another one anywhere. Thank you so much.



3. I had great expectations for this CD... most of them were met, but I was vastly disappointed with one of the principal singers: Reba McIntyre. I know she is a great comedic actress and a true star in the world of country music. But from the very first song she sings - and nearly everyone thereafter - her country stylings just struck me as WRONG for this part. She tends to "scoop" up to her notes - over and over. Again, that may be OK for country music, but not Rogers & Hammerstein... even if the role is supposed to be a young gal from the "country" (i.e. not a big city). Again, she is great in her realm and has done fun and admirable things on TV and in movies, but I found her singing style in this role annoying.
   
   Most everyone else holds up well, though I agree with another reviewer's observation that Alec Baldwin sounded a bit like a New York gangster. The women's and men's choruses performed admirably. The orchestra was lush, rich and balanced. For me, however, the saving grace and main reason to buy this CD is Brian Stokes Mitchell. His rich baritone is breathtaking and awe-inspiring. It would have been better if he did not read his lines of dialoggue as is "French accent" was very strange indeed - but his singing is to be savored.



4. After seeing this concert performance on PBS recently, we quickly ordered the CD. Super! Great quality and wonderful voices and acting, even if one couldn't see them!



5. Let's get to the point here. With all due respects to the legendary Mary Martin, Ezio Pinza, and all the others who have essayed the lead roles in this great show, this is, quite simply, the finest recording of R&H's "South Pacific".
   
   Brian Stokes Mitchell is a proven commodity on the Broadway stage these days. He is a force of nature that seems to sweep away all before him. The part of Emile was originally written for Ezio Pinza, then nearing the end of a remarkable career on the operatic stage. Magnificent though he is said to have been in this role, it simply must be said that for those familiar with his great art, his voice, as heard on the original cast recording is long past its' prime. Mitchell simply sounds much younger and more vibrant. Does it work? I think so.
   
   A much greater potential problem is Reba McEntire. Someone took a great leap of faith in casting her in this role. New York audiences are notoriously unforgiving, and the cognoscenti awaited her with their claws sharpened. It is said she was very worried about doing this, but resolved to give it her best. Watching this on the DVD, it is more obvious than listening on the CD, but the audience is noticeably cool to McEntire at the beginning. It takes her about ten minutes to win them over. But win them over she does, and in the process turns in one of the most surprising performances in my memory. Could she do Nellie eight a week? I have no idea. But I can sure tell you she did the hell out if for at least one night. Her much deserved ovation at the end of the show was so thunderous she can be seen taking her bows with tears running down her face.
   
   Simply a great job by one and all.
   
   Now, on to the shortly-to-be-released cast album of the recent Broadway revival of South Pacific, amazingly, the shows' first fully staged Broadway revival since it premiered over a half century ago. I hear its' great. I hope so. It's going to have to be to top this.
   
   R&H live forever!

5 comments about Somewhere over the Rainbow: The Golden Age of Hollywood Musicals.

1. A wonderful collection of Hollywood musical moments that you will enjoy over and over again. The recordings are crisp and clear. This 2 disc set will have you running to rent these classic movies. Kelly, Astaire, Garland, Crosby, Keel and many others were one-of-a-kind talents . What a great way to remember them.



2. This C-D contains remastered music from many of the
   best musicals I remember from my youth. The only
   thing I miss is the video because at times there is
   only the sound of tapdancing.
   I enjoy singing along with the music while driving
   my car. Just as good as singing in the shower!



3. Everything that happens in life
   Can happen in a show
   You can make 'em laugh
   You can make 'em cry
   Anything
   Anything can go....
   
   The clown with his pants falling down
   Or the dance that's a dream of romance
   Or the scene where the villain is mean
   That's entertainment!
   
   The lights on the lady in tights
   Or the bride with the guy on the side
   Or the ball where she gives him her all
   That's entertainment!
   
   The plot and the hot simply teeming with $ex
   A gay divorcee who is after her ex
   It could be Oedipus Rex
   Where a chap kills his father
   And causes a lot of bother
   
   The clerk who is thrown out of work
   By the boss who is thrown for a loss
   By the skirt who is doing him dirt
   
   The world is a stage,
   The stage is a world of entertainment!
   
   This two CD set amply proves that the musical melodies and lyrics from the golden age of the Hollywood musical remain unsurpassed to this day. This generous two CD set offers 42 incredible songs from Hollywood classic musicals. Most of these fine numbers are indeed from MGM, as Amazon correctly notes; but there are some RKO numbers and even a little from Warner Brothers. Thank goodness, though, that most of these songs came from MGM movies; MGM was the only studio that could boast that it truly had "more stars than there are in the heavens."
   
   I love so many songs on these two CDs. Of course, there's the unforgettable classic "Over The Rainbow" sung by Judy Garland; she also performs "Easter Parade" and "Get Happy" on this two CD set and she carries most of the tune for "I Got Rhythm" even though Mickey Rooney helps her a little. I love "Baby, It's Cold Outside" for its' romantic overtones; and Lena Horne's "The Lady Is A Tramp" is flawless! We also get a rare chance to hear Clark Gable sing in "Puttin' On The Ritz;" and Bing Crosby's "Going Hollywood" may be brief but it's a fun song anyway.
   
   There are two "bonus" tracks on the first CD: "As Time Goes By" from Casablanca and "Lara's Theme" from Doctor Zhivago. "As Time Goes By" is a good choice; it is another unsurpassed classic song that brings back memories and touches even the hardest of hearts. "Lara's Theme," however, is from the mid 1960s and I don't consider this period to be part of the "golden age" of Hollywood musicals.
   
   The liner notes are excellent and they offer wonderful photos of the stars as well. The cover art is well done and the reverse cover art tells which movie each song is from and who is performing each song. Moreover, the quality of the sound is excellent especially when you consider that these numbers were recorded quite a few decades ago.
   
   In short, this superlative two CD highlights the glory of the Hollywood musical when a certain type of sophistication dominated professional movie production. I highly recommend this CD for fans of Hollywood musicals, classic pop vocals and fans of the artists and actors who perform on this two CD set.



4. What an amazon collection of songs! This is bar none my favorite cd just because of the variety and the quality of songs on it. I love music from this era, and this cd is the perfect companion to my life. Love it! Buy it, you won't regret it for a moment!



5. Apart from the great selection of soundtracks, what really makes this compilation top value is the quality of the sound processing. Executed with finesse, these tracks sound better than when first issued and many are unedited, fuller versions: like "Singing In The Rain", for example. Throw in the great price, and this double disc set is a "must have" for all lovers of classic movie music.

5 comments about The Boy from Oz (2003 Original Broadway Cast).

1. Anything Hugh Jackman does is amazing. This soundtrack is no different. While Mr. Jackman had done previous stage work, this performance is nothing short of brilliant. Every song is covered in emotion thanks to his performance and the performance of an equally strong cast. Each song is powerful and wonderful to listen to again and again. I strongly recommend this soundtrack not only to theatre lovers, but to anyone who is looking for good music. Hugh Jackman shines and wins you over with this performance. Hoping to see it turned into a movie one day!



2. Hugh Jackman made an incredible debut as the legendary (if somewhat little known) Aussie singer songwriter. The problem with bringing this show to Broadway is that people basically remembered Allen for starring in the flop musical "Legs Diamond" (some of the songs are resurructed from that score) Although some somes are out of place and sung by the wrong character ("Don't Wish Too Hard was sung in the Australian production during Peter and Liza's wedding while Judy sings it here.
   For future productions it should come later because it is a disco song.
   And of course "The Best That You Can Do" was written in 1982)
   Many of the "Ozalots" (the show's fans want it made into a movie. With Hugh's busy movie schedule and a possible return to Broadway while we'll have to see...



3. One of the most amazing shows I've ever seen, period!!! Hugh Jackman is an absolute musical theater treasure and is so absorbed in the role you think, at times, that Peter Allen is guiding his movemens and his expressions. Jackman has a perfect voice for this role, and the supporting cast is no less talented. The talented ladies who performed the roles of Judy and Liza had courage that equaled their ability. I saw the show three times and was time and again grateful for its enormous energy, its love and sympathy for its principal characters and, finally, the music of Allen. When Hugh sings "Once Before I Go," the audience jumps to its feet to give him a standing ovation that lasts and lasts and lasts. You don't think it'll ever end. Even Jackman seemed stunned. I hope that someone has the good sense to release this show on DVD so the average theatergoer will have the opportunity to see this once in a lifetime performance!



4. Peter Allen was all but forgotten until he was resurrected by Hugh Jackman in the musical "The Boy from Oz", a biographical musical rendition of the zany and fabulous life that Allen lead. Born in the Australian outback to a troubled drinker father who committed suicide, Allen sought escape with dreams of international stardom from a young age. When he met Judy Garland and married Liza Minnelli, Allen's career took off on Broadway and in many iconic 70's era songs, such as "I Honestly Love You" sang by fellow Aussie Olivia Newton-John. Allen epitomized the heady hedonistic 70's with his songs and lifestyle before dying of AIDS in the early 90's. The soundtrack of the Boy from Oz tells Allen's story in his own words - his songs - and paints a picture of a boy from the Australian bush who achieved fame and fortune only to go out with a bang in his signature style. From "All the Lives of Me" to "I Still Call Australia Home" to "I Go to Rio", Jackman brings back Allen to life through song and dance that pays authentic tribute to an almost forgotten musical legend.



5. This is not only one of the best performances I have ever heard on CD it is also touching and quite moving as the story of Peter Allen. Hugh Jackman is pure excellence.

5 comments about 42nd Street (1980 Original Broadway Cast).

1. If you like 42nd Street, you'll love this recording. If you're not familiar with the music, listen to some clips. You get what you hear.



2. Maybe I have just been spoiled by the modern musicals, but this classic was boring. half the songs were dancing, and that isnt exactly what I like listening to. A little tap is ok, but not this much. I also like to have a couple ballads in the show, but this one was balladless. Jerry Orbach sounds great, when you get to hear him, but even that isnt very often. Why not get The Fantastics instead? This show just wasnt for me. I would suggest that collectors, and classic lovers, get this one. Other than that, pass it over. Favorite song: "Lullabies of Broadway" (only because Jerry Orbach sings most of it.)



3. I saw 42nd Street in Washington DC and it was awesome! This soundtrack is great. All of the music is so catchy. If you like 42nd Street and you enjoy the music, buy this CD!



4. 42nd Street is an oldie, dating back to the days when Al Jolson and Ruby Keeler played the director and ingenuous wanna-be musical star. In 1980, this version opened on Broadway, with some updated lines and songs added to make it relevant to present-day audiences. It featured a talented ensemble of performers, including stage musical veterans Jerry Orbach and Tammy Grimes. (An interesting sidenote: This was Orbach's last role in musical theater until he provided the voice of Lumiere for Disney in 1990; he also blamed his contract for this show for costing him a stab at a movie career!)
   
   The tale is old and well-traveled to anyone familiar with old films about stage shows: A troupe is assembled, a play thrown together, someone coughs up backing dough, and all seems lost until the misfit saves the show. It's old as dirt and still strangely fresh, appealing to most people's hope for a happy ending. Toss in great songs written by Harry Warren and Al Dubin, and dance routines choreographed by the great Gower Champion, and the result is infectiously fun.
   
   The story centers on the efforts of fallen director Julian Marsh to produce a musical during the Depression, no small feat considering that most of society has hit rock-bottom financially. Salvation of a sort comes in the form of faded star Dorothy Brock, who is over the hill but has a rich sugar daddy willing to back a show---provided she's the star. However, auditions have unearthed a sweet young thing with real star potential named Peggy Sawyer, who suffers from terminal klutziness and an ability to get in Julian's way. Nonetheless, he shows her compassion and hires her as an extra. Trouble starts when Dorothy's old flame Pat Denning appears on the scene and Julian fears that her rich boyfriend will yank his support out from under the show. From then on, it's all up in the air as to whether or not the musical will happen.
   
   There's plenty of fun and great song and dance numbers, such as "Go Into Your Dance", "We're In The Money", "Shuffle Off To Buffalo", "42nd Street" and the best one of all, "Lullaby Of Broadway". The singers were perfectly cast for their roles: Jerry Orbach shone as Marsh, Tammy Grimes breathed life into the fading but still proud Dorothy, and newcomer Wanda Reichert was wonderful as the awkward yet talented Peggy; her cracked voice was reminiscent of Ruby Keeler's. In his last live musical role, Orbach had far less to do than in his earlier shows, but his strong voice had lost none of its virility and power to reach the balcony. In a rare video clip shown on TV one night, our children got to see him and the original cast sing and dance to "Lullaby Of Broadway" and were wowed; he and Wanda Reichert dazzled the crowd, right along with the ensemble.
   
   One last piece of stranger-than-fiction stuff: Orbach's first role on Broadway (The Fantasticks was off-Broadway) was as Paul in Carnival, which was choreographed and directed by Gower Champion; so was his last. And it was on opening night of 42nd Street that the infamous David Merrick, who also produced both musicals, came out and announced to a stunned audience and cast that Champion had just died a few hours earlier of a fatal illness. To Jerry Orbach, the whole episode was awful, a sordid trick pulled by Merrick to garner ticket sales for the show, as if the musical didn't have enough merit to pull in an audience. Listen to this CD and realize that no publicity stunts were needed---42nd Street is terrific, and remains fresh even now. Enjoy!



5. Adapted from a 1930's motion picture, "42nd Street" (starring Jerry Orbach and Tammy Grimes) is a choreographer's dream musical.
   Besides the great dancing, however, the musical comedy contains several classic tunes, including:
   
   You're Getting To Be A Habit With Me
   We're In The Money
   Lullaby Of Broadway
   Shuffle Of To Buffalo
   42nd Street
   
   While the music is a bit dated for my taste, these are classic songs & are great seen within the context of the show.

5 comments about Cinderella (1957 Television Cast).

1. OK, if you have kids or are around kids, they have sung the scores to the above mentioned shows until even the birds on the wallpaper know how they go. But it's not really the kids fault--just broaden their musical horizons with this lovely classic. The songs are simple, but memorable and have just enough musical richness to keep them interesting rather than predictible. Soon they will be another musical played over and over and over....ahh childhood.



2. I purchased this for my 4 year old grandaughter after she had seen the stage play and wanted to learn all of the songs. We love to sing them...the step-sisters' lament which is very funny, "Impossible" and (her version) "A Luddly Night". A great introduction to musical theater for little people.



3. Simply beautiful. While the 66 production is pleasant as well, and Leslie Ann Warren is not Julie Andrews (who is?), she is lovely in her own right and it does preserves R&H's wonderful music. The Whitney Houston production, while a misfire, at least is a valiant attempt to keep R&H alive, and brought to a whole new generation, on that score , Bravo!
   But the original is sublime, even if the recently re-released TV production is difficult to watch due to the technological values of the day, the B&W picture is grainy and distorted, no matter, it's all about the glorious music.



4. I remember watching the original broadcast live (I believe it was live) and loving it. After all these years, I still do.
   
   And I laughed to find out Jon Cypher was the police commissioner on Hill Street Blues. Took me a long time to wrap my head around that one.
   
   a great album of a memorable event!



5. I love it. Much better than the later Leslie Ann Warren version. This particular CD looked like an old Columbia Records LP label. Very retro.

5 comments about Ultra-Lounge, Vol. 4: Bachelor Pad Royale.

1. This is one of my favorite of the ultra-lounge series of discs. Most everyone is at least vaguely familiar with a few of the tunes on the disc and that helps bring folks in to really listen more closely. Nothing says "I'm having a retro party" like this CD, oysters on the half shell, and rum-based tropical drinks. I'm just sayin'.



2. From the start of Nelson Riddle's "Theme from Route 66" this album jumps out @ the listener, with this being easily one of the BEST TV themes ever produced, very catchy and very cool, more reminiscent of just a hip lounge piece and is perfect to introduce this package. John Buzon's "Caravan" is another fun spin on what is one of the several out there of this great tune, this one being played a bit like a rhumba! Line Renaud's "Sexe" is nothing special but it's very slick and is a little like something that would have come from the cavern clubs during the beat era. I can't say enough about Lou Busch's jazzy "Cool", adapted from the already jazz-cool Bernstein musical "West Side Story". This is just another good rendition offered, although here instrumental and really pushing jazz solos. Love it! Although "The Beast" may be one of the CDs lesser tunes, an organ jazz piece with a piano backing, it's still really pretty cool and wears on the listener after a few listenings. Theme from "Our Man Flint" is pretty space age bachelor/surf music and one of the more orchestrated pieces on the album. Although Fascinato's "Spring Sprang Sprung" is pretty simple, its simplicity is what makes it just great background music. Its pieces like this that help make these Ultra Lounge releases good for gatherings & parties. "Night Train" is already a driving tune, but in Alvino Rey's hands, it's even more entertaining. I love "Harlem Nocturne", to begin with, and have another cool version of it on one of the other Ultra Lounge(maybe "Rhapsodesia", not sure). The Denny arrangement, though, is very mellow and cool, with a bit of the exotica sound that he made famous. The rest are anywhere from good to a little better, with Jimmie Haskell's "A Shot in the Dark", adapted from the 2nd Clouseau 'pink panther' film, a dynamite addition, and Spike Jones' 'stripper' interpretation of the 'serious' "Shangri-La" possibly funny as an in-joke but also just plain cool. Basically, more than 2/3rds of this compilation is great, with the rest being decent to good. So...you decide. I like it!



3. It is best to review all the songs and listen to them if unfamiliar with artist or title. I love and own many of the Ultra-Lounge series.



4. This album gets a lot of airplay when I want to sit around with mates and smoke cigars and drink a few scotches. Not sure why, but its just cool.
   I'm from Down Under and this album is about as far as you could get from Australia during the 50s/60s period, and that may be it's appeal for me.
   The album conjures images of 50s/60s american gumshoe private eye types, smokey bars, and late night alleys from an almost mythical Manhattan setting.
   Perphaps one of the best in the Ultra-Lounge Collection (Although Ultra-Lounge, Vol. 1: Mondo Exotica is its rival for that position), and I heartily recommend this album for you late night introspective types out there!



5. Ultra-Lounge Bachelor Pad Royale gives us a great selection of steamy romantic hits from the late 1950s and early 1960s that still sound great today! The lush and creative musical arrangements hold your attention rather easily and the quality of the sound is excellent.
   
   The CD track set kicks off with "The Theme From Route 66" performed by Nelson Riddle & His Orchestra. The sound is cool, savvy and the melody goes along at just the right pace. The strings and percussion enhance this classic number, too. Great! The next track has The John Buzon Trio performing "Caravan" using the organ as they so often did to embellish the beauty of the number. The percussion hits it all just right and "Caravan" boasts a romantic and relentlessly upbeat melody.
   
   "Cool" by Lou Busch & His Orchestra gives us an awesome rendition of this song from West Side Story; and "The Beast" by Milt Buckner oozes class and a certain type of panache you rarely hear these days. Like John Buzon and his buddies; the arrangement for "The Beast" makes good use of the organ. The piano shines on this number, too.
   
   Alvino Rey's rendition of "Night Train" slinks along with a steamy, naturally romantic style that will prove beyond doubt that this music still retains its high quality control to this very day. Martin Denny was doing a lot of exotica by the late 1950s, but his version of "Harlem Nocturne" is sublime! The chimes work well; and the piano together with the bass make this number an instant classic. Hooray!
   
   Sam Butera and his buddies perform a medley of "The Boulevard Of Broken Dreams/Fever" that leaves you sweating from its hot, hot, hot delivery; and "Street Scene '58" makes great use of the sax to romanticize this tune.
   
   Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end. The last two tracks on this CD are Julie London's "Black Coffee" and "Melancholy Serenade" by King Curtis. Julie sings "Black Coffee" without a single superfluous note; but you should know that although "Melancholy Serenade" gets the royal treatment from King Curtis, this is not the interpretation of this song that I have heard before. Instead of the dramatic and somewhat boisterous use of the horns; King Curtis's rendition places the organ squarely into the spotlight of the arrangement and the single horn tones down this angle drastically. Nevertheless, the arrangement works well.
   
   The liner notes include an informative essay by R. J. Smith; and the song credits and recording dates are there for you, too. The artwork reflects good taste and there are even two drink recipes!
   
   I highly recommend this CD for fans of "lounge music" and for people who want to remember a time when cool music for lovers actually was cool music for lovers.
   
   Enjoy!

5 comments about The Wiz - The Super Soul Musical: Original Cast Album (1975 Broadway Cast).

1. "The Wiz" made its Musical Broadway debut in 1975 (though I've been told there was another, slightly different one, in 1974.
   
   The Making-Of the Wiz Movie on both DVDs mentions how the music was completely redone for the film - and they were right! I'm more used to the movie version than the original Broadway, but I do agree that Stephanie Mills' etc version has quality and better appearance. Compared to the movie, some songs have been changed in words and tone, the songs are performed a bit quicker here than the film, but - listening again now, as a reminder for this review - is certainly great!! One other thing is Stephanie Mills' singing: she's great and certainly younger than Diana, but I can't help but feel how she sings (like 'Home'), like it's in her jaws or cheeks - but that's just because I've grown with Diana's version more than Steph's.
   
   The "Prologue" is 20 seconds of introduction with 'Ease on Down the Road', before Aunt Em sings "the Feeling We Once Had". Too bad there aren't any photos of the "Tornado", because this scene's soundtrack is EXCITING!! When Addaperle and the (grown-up, not young) Munchkins sing "He's the Wizard", it takes a bit getting used to while Stephanie Mills' "Soon As I Get Home" being sung quickly instead of fast like Diana Ross are still both good to hear. Scarecrow's origin song "I Was Born On the Day Before Yesterday" has a real 'Hallejuiah! Thank the LORD" feel, before we are swept away by the popular "Ease on Down the Road" again and again (played only once on this CD, but can be easily repeated by us listeners and our Players), though oddly it has all 4 friends and should've been placed as track 8 or 9; Tiger Haynes Lively urges to "Slide Some Oil To Me" and Ted Ross insists that "I'm A Mean Ole Lion", before Dorothy comforts him to "Be A Lion" in a duet. TOO BAD THERE IS NO EMERALD CITY SCORE, though Andre de Shields does comment on how the friends "So You Wanted to Meet the Wizard" - chilling and excitingly heart-beating; it is HERE that Tin Man sings "What Would I do If I Could Feel?" to the Wiz asking for a Heart.
   Evillene demands that "Don't Nobody Bring Me No Bad News" (more voice and less gruff like she would in the film), before her death allows "Everybody Rejoice", that popular and ever-energetic 'Brand New Day' (as much as 'Ease on Down the Road') song. When the Wiz sings "Y'All Got It!", that's another great song with energy and fast-paced excitement. Glinda sings "If You Believe" as a comforting lullaby of sorts to Dorothy, before she finishes and ends the soundtrack with a wonderful "Home" (here was where a few words were changed for the film very obviously).
   
   Although a Broadway Soundtrack, there is no audience applause, unless you count it possibly done by the Winkies in 'Don't Nobody Bring me No Bad News'.
   
   The soundtrack runs around 45 minutes. The disk has a red and black circle with the songs listed, info details and symbols, like a Classical CD.
   
   Inside the soundtrack, there is a booklet (the cover illustration by Milton Glaser) that contains a listing of the songs, notice on this upbeat adaptation, the crew involved with the music, and the synopsis (and who plays who) over 3 pages by William F. Brown. The only picture/photo is that of Hinton Battle, Stephanie Mills, Ted Ross and Tiger Haynes as Scarecrow, Dorothy, Lion and Tin Man "walking" towards us in colour.
   
   If you've grown up, or are more aware of the movie's version and know little of the original stage production, this CD is worth getting and listening to, as this is how "the Wiz" should be heard, seen, made and experienced . . . full of Life, Colour and SOUL!!



2. I bought this CD because I was in this show twice, once as a minor bit part and once as the Wicked Witch, then I directed the show. I had always held off on buying the CD because I knew how bad the movie was... even with such notable performers, it just flat out stunk.
   
   Now it has been over 10 years since I last saw the show and I suddenly had "Ease on Down the Road" stuck on repeat in my skull. I hunted and finally found this cast recording, which I purchased immediately.
   
   First - this album is 110% better than the movie, so breathe a sigh of relief there. The vocalists are all accomplished and very good at what they do. The music is spot on and doesn't drown out the vocalists (unlike some musicals I own).
   
   I have now listened through several times since it showed up yesterday and I really only have one complaint - the lack of soul. Now I'm not talking about the music, I'm talking about the actors... they are singing but they aren't "being" the music. "I was born the day before yesterday" though pretty, should have been explosive and heartfelt, but it sounded as though most of them were singing off of the lyric sheets and going through the motions rather than truly feeling and being the character.
   
   Still that is only a minor complaint on an otherwise wonderful musical cast recording. If you ever have the opportunity to see this show, do it. I personally prefer the music in this to the music in "The Wizard of Oz" other than the Wiz's song about how he's going to "Wiz on himself" that one always grated my teeth... but the skip button is a good friend to have :)



3. The Original with Ms. Mills will never be surpassed.
   This is a must buy.



4. The recording quality is superb. Really a good buy. It is always difficult to get many CD's & DVD's here in South Africa, and Amazon has been outstanding. My stuff has always arrived safely and in perfect condition (touch wood).



5. I saw this original cast on broadway in the 70's - I was probably around 12. I had always loved the original movie and would wait for the yearly showing (when TV was free) and watch with friends or my cousins. It was a family affair. But when Stephanie Mills hit the stage in her silver slippers I forget all about Judy Garland and the gang.
   Of course I boght the LP album and listened to it over & over-knew all the words. It somehow dissapeared over the years and I forgot about Dorothy and Eveline until I was recently talking to a friend of my husbands (a little older than I am) about how much he loved music and he told me the only time he cried at a performance was when he saw Stephanie Mills on broadway. I started screeming "the wiz-I saw that too" and it all came rushing back to me. I of course ordered 2 copies of this disc-one for myself and one for my hubbys friend. I've been listening in the car. It is a little dated so I'm having trouble getting my teens to appreciate it, but the talent is there 100% and so are the memories. Miss Mills can still give you goose bumps. I wish there was some visual recording of this performance so that the Diana Ross fiasco could be erased from history.
   When my kids first heard me say The Wiz they wear groaning because they were thinking it was the Diana & Michael version.
   They gave it a chance and have now stopped complaining so I guess it stands the test of time-30? years later.
   I recomend this to anyone who survived the seventies (or wished they did) or may love a new twist on an old classic.