5 comments about Bye Bye Birdie: The New Soundtrack Recording (1995 Television Cast).

1. I do not own this CD or any other Bye Bye Birdie soundtracks. However, just from listening to the samples on this website I can tell which one is obviously the best. If you don't believe me, just listen to them yourself. I am comparing the songs from this, the 1995 television recording, the 1960 Broadway, and the 1963 movie. Here is a list of *some* of the songs and my opinions:
   
   An English Teacher
   1995: Vannessa William's voice is lovely.
   1960: I prefer the first one. I think Chita Rivera's voice sounds too old fashioned.
   1963: not included
   
   The Telephone Hour
   1995: I am IN LOVE with this song, almost as much as I am with Harvey Johnson. (Yes, I am a hormone-riddled teenager, so I can relate to this song.) Whoever plays Harvey has a great voice and sounds charmingly vulnerable. It is hard to keep from smiling as you listen to this flock of gossiping teenagers.
   1960: You have no idea how much I am cringing right now. Everyone, especially the girls, is more yelling than singing. The overall impression is very cheap.
   1963: Though very upbeat, this rendition seems quite annoying and Harvey was obviously trying to sound as bad as possible.
   
   How Lovely To Be A Woman
   1995: Yes, Chynna Phillips is too old, although it's not that noticable. Also, though her voice has a nice tone, she goes off key occasionally and is not the best for the role.
   1960: But then again, neither is this woman. Ugh.
   1963: Despite the constant bashing of Ann-Margaret from other reviewers, I think she's pretty good. Am I missing something?
   
   Put On A Happy Face
   1995: Great!
   1960: Also great!
   1963: Not bad at all......
   
   A Healthy, Normal, American Boy
   1995: Very enjoyable.
   1960: Er.....those girls seriously need to work on enunciating their vowels.
   1963: N/A
   
   Honestly Sincere
   1995: Woot! Mark Kudisch is AMAZING! I can't think of anyone more perfect for this role. He sounds exactly like a renown Elvis impersonator. You can't stand still while listening to this song!
   1960: Not nearly up to par with Kudisch's performance. Good, though.
   1963: Are you kidding? (Although the background screams are mildly amusing.)
   
   Hymn For A Sunday Evening (Ed Sullivan)
   1995: I love the part where the chorus joins. The energy is awesome.
   1960: Boring in comparison.
   1963: Ditto.
   
   One Last Kiss
   See Honestly Sincere.
   
   Kids
   1995: I love this song! I think both parts were cast perfectly--yes, even George Wendt, especially George Wendt actually. His is a character role, and he does it perfectly, so that every teenager wants to strangle him. Kids sounds very lively.
   1960: Not as polished or well-acted as the 1995 one.
   1963: Enjoyable, actually. Very different from the other two.
   
   Spanish Rose:
   1995: Williams is very nice on here.
   1960: Way too over-acted. It sounds pretty bad.
   1963: absent
   
   That's all I really want to write down........[...]



2. I should preface this review with a disclaimer of sorts. I've never seen the movies, nor have I seen the play staged professionally. I have yet to hear any other version of the soundtrack. This review is based solely from my very limited experience with the musical - I've seen a high school production.
   
   Looking at the soundtrack solely on its own merits, it's pretty darn good. The leads of Albert and Rosie are filled, respectively, by Jason Alexander and Vanessa Williams. They each do a wonderful job. Alexander nails all of his songs. His version of "Put On A Happy Face" is undeniably goofy, but that adds immensely to its charm. Even better is his version of "Talk To Me," which is one of the album's highlights. This isn't a surprise, as he was an actor on Broadway before he moved to television, but it's impressive nonetheless. His vocals are simply amazing. Williams succeeds similarly; she conveys Rosie's exasperation at Albert perfectly in "English Teacher" and "What Did I Ever See In Him?" Again, this isn't a surprise - anyone with a recording career should most certainly be able to sing - but she is as important to the album's success as Alexander is.
   
   The other actors fill their roles with varying levels of success. Chynna Phillips sounds a bit too old to be a teenager, but her version of "One Boy" impressed me enough to forget that. Marc Kudisch sounds like a sleazy Elvis impersonator...in other words, he's perfect for the role of Conrad Birdie. He manages to make the Birdie tracks (stupid lyrics and all) a lot of fun to listen to. George Wendt, on the other hand...Wendt just wasn't a good choice for the role of Harry. His rendition of "Kids," while not exactly atrocious, was probably the worst track on the CD. An older actor may have been a better choice for the film...or, since I'm talking about the soundtrack, perhaps someone who can actually sing.
   
   I don't know the play well enough to comment on the newly added tracks, but I don't see why "A Mother Doesn't Matter Anymore" was added. It took the play's monologue and turned it into a song, but it didn't really add anything in the process. Strange, to say the least.
   
   It's probably just me, but I find the ensemble of teenage girls used in the title track and "Telephone Hour" to be incredibly grating. It bothers me so much I skip those tracks. I can't explain why that is, but that is definitely not a good sign.
   
   Weak spots aside, I've got to give the CD a positive review. I've listened to it repeatedly over the past week, and I've had it stuck in my head for the majority of that week. The tracks that feature Alexander, Williams, and Kudisch are all very well done, and outnumber the weaker ones like "Telephone Hour" and the hideous version of "Kids." I can't compare this to the movie or any other versions of the soundtrack, but it manages to hold its own well enough.



3. Wow the movie is great and so is the soundtrack!!!!!!
   one totally awesome cd. my personal fav is telephone hour .



4. BYE BYE BIRDIE was dusted off for a television version in 1995, featuring a cast made up of Broadway veterans and newcomers alike. The soundtrack album is a bouncy and enjoyable delight.

   Vanessa Williams takes on her second Chita Rivera-originated role, as beleagured secretary Rose Alvarez. Jason Alexander (THE RINK) returns to his musical theatre roots as Albert Peterson. The rest of the cast is sensational: Marc Kudisch (reprising his national tour role) as Conrad Birdie; Tyne Daly (GYPSY, CALL ME MADAM) as Mae Peterson; George Wendt as Mr MacAfee, and Sally Mayes (SHE LOVES ME) as Mrs MacAfee. The only shortcoming is the sorely-miscast Chynna Phillips as Kim, who hardly convinces as a teenager.

   Several new songs were written for this new version of the Broadway classic, including "Let's Settle Down", belted to perfection by Miss Williams; and "A Mother Doesn't Matter Anymore", a great character-turn for Tyne Daly as the grasping Mae. The other numbers, including the classics "An English Teacher", "A Lot of Livin' to Do" and "Kids" are all performed to perfection. And yes, Vanessa Williams even performs "Spanish Rose", with some slight lyric alterations.

   A must-own for BIRDIE fans.




5. Let me just say this is a wonderful soundtrack for the TV remake of the classic musical "Bye Bye Birdie". Jason Alexander, Vanessa Willams, Chynna Phillips, George Went, Marc Kudisch and Tyne Daly are the lead singing roles, and they are all fantastic. Jason and Vanessa were FANTASTIC as Albert and Rosie, and their singing was very impressive. Jason does great with "Put On A Happy Face", "Talk To Me", "A Giant Step", and others. Vanessa blew me away with "An English Teacher", "Lets Settle Down", "Spanish Rose", and others. Chynna Phillips...well, I think she has a nice voice she sounds pretty good with her songs, but she is bit too old for the role of Kim. But she did good with "How Lovely To Be A Woman", "One Boy" and others. George Went is fabolous as Kim's father, and does very well with "Ed Sullivan", and "Kids". Broadway star Marc Kudisch makes a GREAT Conrad, I was very impressed with his performance he does great with "Honestly Sincere", and "One Last Kiss". And.. Tyne Daly as Mae Peterson is just fantastic, she just so great, and her song "A Mother Dosent Matter Anymore" is wonderful!

   The only thing that dissapoints me with this soundtrack is... Not all the songs from the movie are included on this CD. The wonderful "Bye Bye Birdie" in the malt shop with the Sweet Apple Girls, isn't included here, which really dissapoints me, because that was a great song and wonderful arrangement of "Bye Bye Birdie". Also Alberts "What Did I Ever See In Her?" isn't here, and also Rosie's reprise of her "Lets Settle Down". I would've been so happy if those songs were included, but what can we do now...

   So Overall, this is a GREAT disc... a wonderful arrangement of the classic "Bye Bye Birdie" songs. I must say if you don't have this soundtrack yet, get it soon..because its becoming increasingly rare and hard to find now. So go get a copy, because its wonderful!!!

5 comments about The Baker's Wife (Members of the 1976 Original Cast).

1. A great album. Most of the songs are really beautiful and Patti Lupone is great as usual. Based on the classic Marcel Pagnol's "La Femme du Boulanger", this musical deserves much more attention. It is a pity that it didn't make it on Broadway. The album brings the lyrics and some photographs of the original production. The sound? Excellent.



2. This is an amazing CD with many great songs for men and women. This has the legendary song Meadowlark. And the men songs Proud Lady and If I Have To Live Alone, are amazing songs to listen to and sing.
   
   I gave it 4 stars because it is an older recording which doesn't give you the full effect of these powerful and simple songs as modern day recording techniques would. But this CD is still a great buy with performers: Teri Ralston, Paul Sorvino, Patti LuPone, and Kurt Peterson.



3. "This wonderful cast album continues to mystify listeners as to why THE BAKER'S WIFE was a huge flop." (David Barbour, "The TheaterMania Guide to Musical Theater Recordings") Was it because of Joseph Stein's book? (He had, after all, received a Tony for FIDDLER ON THE ROOF four years earlier.) The musical score? (Stephen Schwartz already had GODSPELL, PIPPIN, and THE MAGIC SHOW under his belt.) Was it the choreography? Perhaps the director? Maybe the producer? ("Producer David Merrick was continually firing people during the troubled out-of-town previews, including the two stars, the director and choreographer, and multiple revisions turned a promising show into a mess that closed before even making it to Broadway." - Michael Dale, broadwayworld.com)
   
   After its six-month pre-Broadway tour, THE BAKER'S WIFE finally "made like a Verdi heroine" and up and died in Washington. Shortly thereafter, composer Stephen Schwartz assembled the remaining cast to make this private recording. The baker in a " . . . small Provençal town, still surprisingly provincial in the mid-1930s . . . " is now played by Paul Sorvino, who had replaced Topol on the road. Patti LuPone played Geneviève, the baker's young wife, who is seduced by the village stud (Kurt Peterson) and leaves her husband for a torrid romance with her young Lothario. Teri Ralston, as the cafe proprietor's wife, beautifully established the show's mood with her opening song.
   
   Although each of the singers is remarkable, it is Paul Sorvino who is the revelation here. Best-known as Det. Sgt. Philip "Phil" Cerreta in TVs LAW & ORDER (1991-1992) & the 1972 Drama Desk Award winner for THAT CHAMPIONSHIP SEASON, his ringing tenor carries the show. "His superb singing may take some fans by surprise, but he is brilliant in 'Merci, Madam,' 'Any-Day-Now-Day,' and the powerful lament 'If I Have to Live Alone.' Patti Lupone's powerful rendition of 'Meadowlark' became a cult event in itself, and Kurt Peterson is wickedly funny in 'Proud Lady.' I know many who think Teri Ralston's 'Chanson' is a jewel. " (John Kendrick, musicals101.com)
   
   "When interest in stock and regional productions grew, as well as a London premiere, Schwartz and Stein took the opportunity to look at the show objectively and make changes without the pressures of being on the road to Broadway." (Michael Dale) Subsequent productions at the Paper Mill Playhouse (2005), the Windfall Theatre in Milwaukee, WI (2007), Seattle's Civic Light Opera (2007), and Philadelphia's Arden Theatre (2001), and others have met with both critical and popular success.
   
   Very highly recommended. "No serious showtune collection is complete without this one. " - John Kendrick



4. As my title probably implies, I don't think this is a musical for everyone. 'Meadowlark' is one of the most amazing songs I've ever heard, but that's one song and 14 dollars (i think that's what it costs...) for one song is not good value. This is quite an old recording, so the sound's a bit fuzzy, but you can still understand everything.
   I'm not saying that the other songs aren't good; they are, but they and the story itself are quite original. Art House-like. The complete opposite of what today's 'popular' musicals are like. It's still a great soundtrack to listen to, but it's an 'aquired taste'. You either need to really like Patti Lu Pone, really like Stephen Schwartz or really appreciate abstract musicals.
   All the singing is great, there's ample emotion in every song and some of the songs are even suprisingly catchy. If it wasn't such an unusual musical, it probably would have done extremely well. I don't even know what makes it unusual, but it is. My favourite song (after Meadowlark) is 'Endless Delights'. It reminds me of music you hear when you see the world spinning around, but it isn't annoying.
   I personally enjoy this CD, but the effect wears off after a while. I'm sure if I put it away for a couple of years and then come back to it, I'll be obsessed all over again, but I'm also sure not everyone likes musicals as much as I do. Listen to the samples and if you like the music, buy it.



5. I purchased this album years ago because I was chasing every musical that Patti LuPone was a member of; there's something about her voice.
   
   I was surprised at the quality of the recording too. I'd warn anyone purchasing this, the recording is not in stereo and almost sounds tinny in places but I grew to love this sound because I listened to the music beneath it.
   
   Traditional French town, a nice traditional story, what better than to have the music sound almost as if it's been lifted out of the period over a stronger version of a grammophone?
   
   I like all the songs and it's difficult to choose my most loved one. Chanson speaks so much about life but the song I'd have to choose as my favourite: the melancholy "If I have to live alone". I find it so sad and it reminds me of how it feels to be alone and lonely; and listening to it, I want to help the baker too.
   
   In all, it's a good CD, just judge it for what it is!

5 comments about Days of Wine and Roses, Moon River and Other Academy Award Winners.

1. This is an album full of songs that won an Oscar. As you can see there are some good songs and also plenty of clunkers. This album is orchestrated by Nelson Riddle, but still, some of these songs cant be saved.
   
   I think 'Way you look tonight' is the absolute best cut in the album, probably best version ever. Also worthy are "Days of wine & roses" and I really enjoy "moon river". "The continental" and "love is a splendored thing" are also very good here.
   
   "All the way" is the same as the album "Sinatra's Sinatra". The rest of the material of this album is just so, so.
   
   Get it while is in print, an underrated Sinatra album.



2. I loved this CD! First of all, who couldn't love Frank Sinatra's voice while he sings Moon River. It's an excellent CD. I'd recommend it for anyone!



3. This 1964 compilation of Oscar winning tunes is hardly an essential purchase, but is still a very fun recording that will appeal to most Sinatra fans. Frank's voice is very much in peak form, and Nelson Riddle's orchestration are typically excellent.
   
   The album begins with "Days Of Wine And Roses." In contrast to the more famous versions of this song, Frank and Nelson take this one as a swinger, and yet it works quite well. Frank has fun on this one as Nelson's orchestra bursts along with energy.
   
   Frank's version of "Moon River" comes next, and it's my favorite version of the song. Frank hits some very strong notes on this one, and the arrangement is tender, atmospheric and romantic. He soars through this one with ease and his phrasing is impeccable.
   
   Next comes the album's highlight and an absolute Frank classic. "The Way You Look Tonight" is the best Frank love song ever: his voice is perfect, Riddle's arrangement is fabulous, and Frank simply digs into the heart and soul of the song in a way no one else has ever been able to.
   
   Next up is a remake of "Three Coins In The Fountain." Though not as good as the original 1954 version (the intro lacks the excitement of the original), it's still a very solid remake and Frank still sings it as beautifully as he had done 10 years ago.
   
   "In The Cool, Cool, Cool Of The Evening" is a weak song that Frank nonetheless has fun with and turns into a winner.
   
   "Secret Love" is a very pretty number often associated with Doris Day that Frank does beautifully.
   
   Next comes "Swingin' On A Star," which aside from "The Way You Look Tonight," is the album's bes track. Frank has a ball on this one, and the song is simply a blast to listen to.
   
   "It Might As Well Be Spring" was a song Frank had recorded in 1961 with Don Costa for the album "Sinatra & Strings." The 1961 version is superior, but this version is nonetheless.
   
   "The Continental" is fun, but Frank's "Love Is A Many Splendored Thing" is a true winner. One of his most powerful vocal performances, Franks pounds this one in a manner nothing short of fantastic.
   
   The version of "All The Way" is the same as the one from 1963's "The Concert Sinatra." A fine remake, very lush and romantic.
   
   This album is not a masterpiece, but is worth buying for sure.



4. On this day of December 12th ninety years ago, a baby boy was born to become the Entertainer-of-the-Century, the most-loved singer of all-time, the greatest singer ever lived and the most prolific interpreter of Great American Songbook. He left lasting impressions on each and every song he sung, making them his own and leaving the magic of his voice glued to every listener's ears. And I'm proud to say that I'm one of those listeners who caught the magic of his voice and his style of singing, I would say "The Sinatra Charisma."
   
   My first exposure to his music was when I was growing up and constantly hearing from my late parents' collection of Sinatra's LP records. So his music is not new to me when I started my very own ever-growing collection. I have reviewed a number of his CDs and realized that I haven't written one for this recording of Academy Award winning songs, which is one of his greatest albums of all-time. Of course, its greatness was magnified not only by the legendary singer's superb interpretations but also by the simple fact that it was Nelson Riddle who arranged and conducted this awesome recording.
   
   What do Jerome Kern, Richard Rodgers, Oscar Hammerstein II, Dorothy Fields, Johnny Mercer, Henry Mancini, Hoagy Carmichael, Sammy Cahn, Jim Van Heusen have in common? They were all great and each of them had made a name in the field of composing and songwriting. Likewise, they all have the much-coveted "Academy Awards Winning Songs" to add to their impressive credentials. And these winners are compiled in this CD starting off with two of my all-time favorites from Johnny Mercer and Henry Mancini "Days Of Wine And Roses" (1962), and "Moon River" (1961).
   
   The most enchanting tracks include a swing version of "The Way You Look Tonight" theme song from the 1936 movie "Swing Time." It's an achingly beautiful ditty that brings back a lot of fond memories to me. (Sigh). This song was composed by Jerome Kern and the lyrics were penned by Dorothy Fields.
   
   "With each word your tenderness grows
   Tearing my fears apart
   And that laugh that wrinkles your nose
   Touches my foolish heart."
   
   One of the winners is "All The Way" (1957), my number one favorite song penned by the most eloquent songwriter America ever produced and Mr. Sinatra's very favorite lyricist, Sammy Cahn, and its music was composed by Jim Van Heusen. What a gem of a song - simply put, a sheer beauty.
   
   The rest of the winners are "It Might As Well Be Spring" (State Fair, 1945), "The Continental" (Gay Divorcee, 1934), "Secret Love" (Calamity Jane, 1953) and "Love Is A Many Splendored Thing," from the 1955 movie of the same title.
   
   What makes this CD a real winner? Frank Sinatra's superb singing, Nelson Riddle's sublime arrangements and orchestration and the Academy Award winning songs. It deserves a special spot in your music library.
   
   Happy Listening!



5. This album is another example of why Sinatra and Riddle worked so well together. You might think you that this is just a warmed over collection of show tunes but you would be wrong. This is a collection that shows how the exceptional can make even the familiar special. Frank is strong and clear and Nelson has the Band playing in a creative style throughout. Enjoy!

5 comments about Follow That Bird.

1. In the movie, Big Bird sang "Easy Goin' Day" with Ruthie (Alyson Court), not Floyd (Benjamin Barrett) like the song list says. Floyd was with them while they sang, but as far as I can see he didn't sing. Most of you will recognize Alyson from other kids' shows; I think Follow That Bird was her first, and she was adorable. I saw Follow That Bird in a movie theater when I was five, and my youngest niece now loves "Easy Goin' Day." We're getting this CD just for that song, so I hope it is the same as in the movie, with Alyson instead of Benjamin.



2. got this to get even with my daughter. hopefully my granddaughter wants to listen to it as often as my daughter did when she was little. i still remember most of the songs!



3. I loved this movie when I was a kid, now it's my daughter's favorite! Timeless, sweet songs.



4. I grew up with this movie and hearing the songs brought back the awesome childhood memories. "One little star" and "I'm so blue" brought tears to my eyes. "Upside down world" on the other hand cracked me up. I didn't think about it much when I was little, but when Ernie and Bert flew that airplane upside down I don't think they realized that they were asking for certain death. lol
   
   The only downside is there are monologues for a lot of the songs and I'm not really into that kind of thing. Plus the "One Little Star" song starts one minute into the track.



5. I may be 18 now but I grew up on this movie and the soundtrack is a great addition to any cd library

5 comments about Blast: An Explosive Musical Celebration.

1. I played trombone in front row of my high school marching band. I love the upbeat rendition of Krepke. I play it often to raise my spirits.



2. You don't really have to understand or appreciate marching band to hughely appreciate the dynamics and showmanship of BLAST! It was revolutionary to bring this type of show to the stage in London, New York and in many touring shows at many venues. To have this music available on CD to listen at any time is truly a rousing joy.
   
   Don't miss out........get your copy and enjoy a group of extremely talented musicians show their stuff.



3. This is one of the most refreshing musical compilations in a long time. Unfortunately, it's difficult to get the full flavor of "Blast!" unless you've seen the actual performance. With that being said, I was thouroughly impressed with musical vituosity of this relatively young cast. Anyone not emotionally moved by the gut-felt trumpet lines in "Loss" certainly can't be a true lover of music. As a one time trumpet player, the warmth and depth of this performance made me absolutely envyous! Take this and mix it with the heart-pounding percussion, and the interspersed chorale-style vocals, and you have a very entertaining auditory treat.



4. After seeing this show live, this CD just barely misses making both exciting. There are a couple numbers (Battery Battle) not included that would go a long way into making this disc into a true Blast!
   
   Bad part done, now for the good parts. The musicianship shown in these selections are astounding. Ben Harloff's solo in "Lost" brings me to tears anytime I hear it. The audacity to have fun being displayed by these semi-professional artists during "Officer Krupke" is a hoot! (Just be sure to catch all the little fun riffs a la The Simpsons theme.) The playfulness in "Land of Make Believe" sends you back to your childhood of many a care-free day.
   
   You miss some of the visuals from the show. I recommend the DVD to get some of the things you do miss. And if you ever get the chance, see it live!



5. I just want to get it out there that I'm a classical harpist (which is pretty much the opposite end of the musical spectrum from "Blast"), and I love this CD. True, not much can be done with color and nuance with such an ensemble, but they still give enjoyable and exhilarating performances. Just take it for what it is!

5 comments about Barbra: The Concert.

1. When Barbra Streisand decided to tour in 1993, it was the first time in a long time she would perform for the general public. Seeing as she rarely performed live, when the tickets were put on sale, they sold out in a matter of hours, and Streisand was probably nervous about putting on a good show. However, put on a good show she did, making this live album her most essential.
   
   Unlike most of her live albums prior to this, Barbra doesn't just come out, sing her most famous songs, and that is that. In fact, she takes some of her standards, like "People" and "Evergreen," as well as some lesser known songs, like "Will He Like Me," and uses them to tell her personal story, as well as her views on politics, dating in the 90s (the therapy monologues are introspective and pretty funny at the same time), and her son and goddaughter. Not only do you get the pleasure of hearing her beautiful voice, still sounding good at this point, but you'll end it feeling like you know her better than you did before.
   
   Like I said before, she sings all the must-sings, but this is not just a recording to hear her sing the hits. It is also the recording to discover some hidden gems in her catalogue, like "Lover Man" and "I'll Know" from Simply Streisand, or "Lazy Afternoon" from her mostly forgotten album of the same name, or even her take on "For All We Know" from the Prince of Tides soundtrack.
   
   The only flaw in this recording is the dialogue. You can tell she doesn't feel very relaxed or comfortable (not surprising, though), and it doesn't come across as too natural either. Anyone who has heard her later live releases or have seen her in concert after can comfirm that she has gotten more comfortable over the years, but in this recording, the tension is still there. But that doesn't diminish what was probably a spectacular night for all involved.
   
   If you are a Barbra Streisand fan, you must get your hands on this album. It's not the same as going to a concert, but it comes pretty close.



2. Even on this later career performance, the voice of Streisand is crisp clear and moving as no other. Her instrument is a little glimpse of heaven. The tweaked opening number As If We Never Said Goodbye is AMAZINGLY PERFECT selection. Her performance is unbelievable. Of course this is true of each song. How she kept this up for a couple of hours with no errors in beyond the imagination. The banter in between with the audience and fictional therapists is equally entertaining. The Concert is an album you can listen to over and over and never tire of.



3. In September of 1994, Barbra Streisand released her thirty-fourth album entitled, BARBRA: THE CONCERT. This album is her fourth live concert album to date. When Barbra had released her first three live concert albums in 1968, 1972, & 1987, they all took up only one disc, since Barbra did not perform as many songs in concert. But this live album takes up two discs, since Barbra has performed many more his than before, as well as having a few more conversation pieces, than the first three times round. A great live album and very personal.
   
   Disc One
   
   OVERTURE
   Nothing special.
   
   AS IF WE NEVER SAID GOODBYE
   From the album BACK TO BROADWAY (1993). This song is very beautiful and it was the perfect choice to open this live album.
   
   OPENING REMARKS
   Conversation piece.
   
   Medley: I'M STILL HERE/EVERYBODY SAYS DON'T/DON'T RAIN ON MY PARADE
   "I'm Still Here": New song. "Everybody Says Don't" From the album BACK TO BROADWAY (1993). "Don't Rain On My Parade" From the original motion picture & motion picture soundtrack FUNNY GIRL (1968). Great medley.
   
   CAN'T HELP LOVIN' THAT MAN
   From the album THE BROADWAY ALBUM (1985). Great song.
   
   I'LL KNOW
   From the album SIMPLY STREISAND (1967). Great.
   
   PEOPLE
   From the album PEOPLE (1964). She sings this beautifully here.
   
   LOVER MAN
   New song. Great.
   
   THERAPIST DIALOGUE #1
   Nothing special.
   
   WILL HE LIKE ME?
   From the album PEOPLE (1964). Great.
   
   THERAPIST DIALOGUE #2
   Nothing special.
   
   HE TOUCHED ME
   From the album MY NAME IS BARBRA, TWO... (1965). Great.
   
   EVERGREEN
   From the original motion picture & motion picture soundtrack A STAR IS BORN (1976). Beautifully sung here.
   
   THERAPIST DIALOGUE #3
   Nothing special.
   
   THE MAN THAT GOT AWAY
   From the original motion picture & motion picture soundtrack A STAR IS BORN (1976). Great.
   
   ON A CLEAR DAY (YOU CAN SEE FOREVER)
   From the original motion picture & motion picture soundtrack ON A CLEAR DAY YOU CAN SEE FOREVER (1970). Still a classic song after all these years.
   
   Disc Two
   
   ENTR'ACTE
   Nothing special.
   
   THE WAY WE WERE
   From the album THE WAY WE WERE (1974). From the original motion picture & motion picture soundtrack THE WAY WE WERE (1974). This song is one Barbra's most beautiful and she sings it as she sung the original.
   
   YOU DON'T BRING ME FLOWERS (Solo Version)
   From the album SONGBIRD (1978). Great.
   
   LAZY AFTERNOON
   From the album LAZY AFTERNOON (1975). Great song.
   
   Disney Medley: ONCE UPON A DREAM/WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR/SOMEDAY MY PRINCE WILL COME
   New song. Beautiful renditions to these Disney classics.
   
   NOT WHILE I'M AROUND
   From the album THE BROADWAY ALBUM (1985). Great.
   
   ORDINARY MIRACLES
   New song. Great.
   
   YENTL Medley: WHERE IS IT WRITTEN?/PAPA, CAN YOU HEAR ME?/WILL SOMEONE EVER LOOK AT ME THAT WAY/A PIECE OF SKY
   All songs from the original motion picture & motion picture soundtrack YENTL (1983). Beautiful. All of these songs are just amazingly beautiful.
   
   HAPPY DAYS ARE HERE AGAIN
   From the album THE BARBRA STREISAND ALBUM (1963). Great.
   
   MY MAN
   From the album MY NAME IS BARBRA (1965). Great.
   
   FOR ALL WE KNOW
   New song. Great.
   
   SOMEWHERE
   From the album THE BROADWAY ALBUM (1985). Still Barbra's most beautiful cover to date.
   
   This album is very, as I said before, personal. If you would like to have BARBRA: THE CONCERT, Barbra Streisand's fourth concert album, then you better make sure you all get it if you don't have it already. Time is not going by any slower, you all know.



4. I bought this album a few years ago, and up till now, it is almost all I listen too! Now, the Timeless concert may have a little better song selection, but this concert was an intimate bonding, and instead of the usual "Greatest Hits", Barbra sang not so famous songs that relate to her, and that just happen to be amazing!
   It starts off with a great Ouverture, reminding us of the fabulous songs in Barbra's repetoire. "As if we never said goodbye", the perfect opening song, starts of this enchanting evening, with a better lyric to accomodate the evening, and an amazing reorchestration. Then, after her hillarious remarks, Barbra swings to the funny yet true I'm stuill here/ Everybody says don't, and ends it with the best version yet of Don't Rain on my parade, with the greatest orchestration full of energy, making you want to sing along. The we relax with a wonderfull rendition of Can't help lovin' that man from Showboat, and then after talking about her early crush with the movie star, Barbra sings a delightfull duet, I'll Know with Marlon Brando. Then, the Barbra trademark People is sung with a great orchestration and a wonderfull energetic ending, which puts everyone in the mood which only Barbra can do.
   Then, after a short Lover Man, we sit in on three therapy sessions separated by Will he like me, a great song from People, He touched me, a soft then strong ballad, Evergreen a very lovely love song, and a montage of three of Barbra's movies. Then, she sings a great The man that got away, followed by a newly orchestrated and brilliantly sung On a clear Day, to end a glorious first act.

   Act two starts with an entracte, then The way we were, beginning offstage, then Barbra apeeras singing it, one of her greatest songs. Then, after a funny comment, sings a solo of You don't bring me flowers. After that, she sings the wondeful calm and serene Lazy Afternoon. Then, she goes into a Disney Medley, a great selection of songs. Then, Not while I'm around, a wonderfull softie for her son. Then Ordinary miracles a new and terrific feel good song, powerful and profound.
   Then, the highlight, the Yentl Medley, stressing on the emotional Papa Can you hear me, and the powerful, soaring, and wow, incredible, A piece of sky. Then, Happy Days, a great classic, saluting new beginings. Then three encores, the wondefull My man, from Funny girl, the sweet For all we know, and the powerful ending, Somewhere.
   Great concert, highly recommended




5. In these highly Republican days, it's not "kosher" to be a fan of the Clinton-friendly Mrs. Brolin. Well, I have always been and will continue to be a fan of "Babs".

   Madison Square Garden, showcase for many of the great sporting contests of all time, is the perfect venue for this history-making concert. Barbara's "conversation" with her "therapist" segues perfectly from song to song, and what songs they are!!!

   Her movie tunes, her Broadway triumphs, as well as the pop standards that she made famous are here. Accompanied by a brilliant orchestra, led by Marvin Hamlisch, Streisand has never sounded better.

   And her solo (minus Neil Diamond who accompanied her on the single) rendition of "You Don't Bring Me Flowers" is chillingly beautiful.

2 comments about Little Fish.

1. Once again Mr. LaChiusa blends song with the story in a very unique way. It's a great score with some real talent behind it.



2. I saw LITTLE FISH here in L.A. with the cast that sings on the CD. And while there is much to admire in the work (and the actual show contained some very clever staging) it is a hard piece to warm up to - for me, at any rate. I think you should buy the CD - we should all support the efforts of real musical theatre artists - but I doubt it will get much play on my equipment beyond the initial period of curiosity. I wish this were not the case, but, alas, there it is.

5 comments about Liza with a 'Z'.

1. What an incredible epitaph to the legacy of Bob Fosse, one of the most brilliant and innovative choreographers of the 20th century!
   
   The fact that I personally have never really warmed to Liza Minelli makes this accolade even more relevant. The cost of the DVD was justified by one of the numbers alone, "I've Gotcha!". Fosse has simply GOT to create the sexiest and most provocative dance routines ever to go on stage, from the fantastic choreography in "Pippin" through to "Sweet Charity" and of course, "All that Jazz" where he brought into sharp focus the "spin" in selling an airline!
   
   Whilst I am quite aware that this review is all about Fosse and little about Liza, nevertheless this incredible performance by Minelli is a true and fitting tribute not only to her own versatility but also to the way the choreography and the songs work so well for a person who has every right to call herself a star. And for that reason alone, I would have to include Fosse in the review.



2. Lovers of Broadway, Lovers of show business, and of course, Lovers of Liza - should consider this a "must have" in their collection. No doubt, this is Liza at her best - the perfect example of pure, raw entertainment talent. How can you live without it?



3. I love Liza with a Z Minnelli. In this 1972 theatrical production, she delivers probably her finest performance to date onstage. Ever since I saw her in Cabaret the film, I can't imagine another Sally Bowles and that includes Dame Judi Dench (Sorry Judi, I love you too) but that role is owned by Liza with a Z. This live production is excellent and even fun to listen to on the stereo. Liza's talents are unique. Yes, she is Judy Garland's daughter but Liza is still one of America's most recognized, talked about, idolized, imitated celebrities with every right to be one. Today's celebrities have nothing on Liza's talent as an actress, singer, and dancer and above all a world class entertainer. This compact disc was in the bargain bin at a supermarket when I bought it and played it in my car singing along. I love her Cabaret medley, Ring Them Bells, Say Liza with a Z, etc. on this soundtrack. It's as if you're there with her. You know that Judy was smiling down her from heaven proud as a mother can be on that night.



4. I can not expand on the excellent review by Steve, but I want to second his praise. My wife and I were fortunate enough to see her in person (Hershey, PA) when she was starting to hit the heights. We sat in about row 10 and got the full impact of her energy and enormous talent. We were pinned to the backs of our seats and then lifted off them. Anyone who loves electrifying performances cannot afford to miss this CD or the forthcoming DVD - - and turn up the volume on your speakers when you play them!



5. For the younger generation who only know of Liza Minnelli as a tabloid queen because she had the wedding and divorce of the decade, and as Dorothy's daughter, then you don't know Liza at all. There are stars and then there are STARS. Liza falls into the latter. She was best known for being the daughter of a legend until she became one herself. In 1972, the same year her Oscar-winning role in Cabaret was released, so was this soundtrack from her four-time Emmy-winning television special that originally aired on September 10, 1972. Filmed in New York the previous May, Liza exploded onto our television screens as few performers can do, and left an indelible mark on the audience as well as in show business history. This reissue is just a reminder of the spectacular talent that is Liza. Half of the album's songs were written by the great songwriting team of John Kander and Fred Ebb, which include the ferocious opening track, "Yes!," as well as the title track "Say Liza (Liza With A "Z")" and a medley from Cabaret, including the exquisite torch song "Maybe This Time." In between, Liza treats us to a haunting version of the Billie Holiday classic "God Bless The Child," the Maurice Jarre-penned "It Was A Good Time," the funk of Joe Tex's "I Gotcha," and a stunning rendition of Dusty Springfield's "Son Of A Preacher Man." There's also a bit of nostalgia with "Bye Bye Blackbird," "My Mammy" and the Charles Aznavour jewel "You've Let Yourself Go." This CD showcases Liza's enormous versatility, and it is probably safe to say it's one of the best, if not the best, full recording of her illustrious career. As a special treat, Showtime television is airing this original 1972 special on April 1, 2006. For those who never understood what the fuss was about, I highly suggest listening to this CD and tuning into the special. For those who don't receive Showtime, not to worry, this special has been immaculately remastered for DVD and will be made available shortly after it airs. There are only a handful of artists that are known by one name. We have Judy, Barbra, and Bette to name three. After listening to Liza on this album, which was recorded when she was only 26, it's easy to see why she is considered among the crème de la crème of entertainers. The concert may be titled 'Liza With A "Z,"' but this album gets an "A," and that's for Astounding!

3 comments about Barbara Cook at Carnegie Hall.

1. When you ask someone who their favorite Broadway soprano is, some say Audra McDonald, Rebecca Luker, Marin Mazzie or even (unfortunately) Sarah Brightman, however most are quick to say Barbara Cook, the legendary soprano who graced the Broadway stage from 1951-1971. She won good reviews in all her shows, regardless of how the shows themselves were received. Beginning with the disastrous "Flahooley", and the moderately successful "Plain and Fancy", to her City Center roles as Ado Annie in "Oklahoma!" and Carrie Pipperidge" in Carousel", she hit became a Broadway legend when she switched to coloratura soprano "ingenue" (a false stamp for this actress-singer) in the unsuccessful original production of "Candide". Her death-defying vocalize in the mock aria-jewel song "Glitter and Be Gay" is definitive (her Eb's above top C are impeccable). There's also her Tony-winning performance as Marian the Librarian in the original production of "The Music Man". "The Gay Life", her signature role as Amalia Balish in "She Loves Me", her acclaimed Mrs. Anna in "The King and I" at City Center and her final Broadway appearance (to date) as Dolly Talbo in the pleasant musical flop, "The Grass Harp". (She made other recordings and appearances in book musicals: "Follies in Concert", "The Secret Garden" - London Studio set, among others, but never another extended run).

   Cook embarked on a highly successful new career as a cabaret artist beginning with her live Carnegie Hall concert debut, which was wonderfully preserved on this recording. She gets things off to a marvelous start with her signature tune "Sing a Song With Me" - that top C bookending the show. She displays that pure (and rangy) lyric soprano combined with her trademark emotional intensity; a combination for which she is most respected and admired.

   In her first outing, Cook showcased much of her musical theatre repertoire, revisiting many of her most famous shows. She presented "Magic Moment" from The Gay Life", her familiar medley from "She Loves Me" ("Dear Friend", "Will He Like Me?" and the fact she can still hit the high B natural in "Ice Cream' today is incredible, let alone how marvelous it sounds here) But the real curio on this recording is an original version of "My White Knight" from "The Music Man". The song is almost twice as long as the famous original, adding an extended patter list prior to the actual ballad. It begins with "All I want..." and continues in a rather comic tone, before making a transition to the familiar ballad of yearning. Quite a display of emotions there. It is a real treat and worth the price of the CD alone.

   Also offered is a chance to feel her interpretation of Carrie in "Carousel" as she delights with "Mister Snow". Also standing out "Who Are You Now?" from "Funny Girl" and "Time Heals Everything" from "Mack and Mabel". She also dabbles in pop music by intrepeting "A House is Not a Home". Cook also brings down the house with "Carolina in the Morning". There isn't one dud on the entire album.

   Cook cannot fail to please on this recording, which is made more evident by the overwhelming response of the live audience. She proves that it takes more than just pretty notes to convey a song. (Also look into her second Carnegie Hall concert on disc: the charming "It's Better With a Band") She is a living legend.

   For any serious fan of Broadway or Ms. Cook, there is no excuse to exclude this mandatory recording from any collection.




2. This CD captures the artist at her peak. The concert is thoroughly enjoyable. A CD to be listened to again and again.



3. I'm close to exhausting my superlatives on Miss Cook - but words can't really do justice to her marvelous recorded output over the years. While virtually every record she made is special in its own way, this particular recording of her "comeback" at Carnegie Hall in 1975 may be her very finest recording. I give it pride of place in my collection as the finest popular music concert recording of all time- the first time I heard it I was stunned, and I have never ceased to be amazed. Where can one start? Every song is a gem. The arrangements by Wally Harper are perfect. Cook, who has one of the finest Broadway and cabaret voices of all time, was in exceptionally good voice. And she had learned to connect with the meaning of a song in a deeper way than in her Broadway career. She's in a great mood, and so is the audience - it makes for an entrancing evening. Her signature song, "Sing a song with me" is sung with confidence, feeling and a merry, jaunty air. "Wait till you see him" is sung with breathless wonder. She delivers the complete lyrics and the definitive version of "My White Knight" - it soars and shimmers like the white knight in the song. There are sad, sweet renditions of "A Song for You" and "My Father". There's a pensive, deeply felt "Who are you now?" and a light, reassuring "It takes nothing away from me". There's a "Carolina in the morning" as full of brio as Judy Garland's, and of course the classic "She Loves Me" medley of "Dear Friend", "Will he like me?" and "Ice cream" - splendidly, deliciously sung. There's a version of "A house is not a home" that's very different from, but every bit as good as, Dionne Warwick's and Luther Vandross's versions. "My White Knight" is for me the highlight of the recording, but it's closely followed by her classic medley of "He was too good to be true/ Time heals everything" (when she sings that last "Time heals everything" my heart just breaks) and her remarkable "When I marry Mr. Snow". A merrier, more sparkling and utterly delightful rendition of this song has never been sung - she would have been the ideal Carrie in the musical.

   Everyone has their favorite singer - Barbara Cook is definitely up there with the greatest in my personal pantheon - but this concert was more than just a great performance by a favorite performer. The joy, the artistry, the technical skill, the complexity of arrangements, the variety, the incredible rapport with the audience - all of these make it an unforgettable performance. I would love to have been there, but I'm grateful that I have the recording and my imagination to take me there whenever I wish. For this recording, 5 stars are not enough!

2 comments about Essential Collection: God Bless America.

1. CD 1
   When The Moon Comes Over The Mountain
   Shine On Harvest Moon
   Some Sunday Morning
   Say It Over And Over Again
   Embraceable You
   Beautiful Dreamer
   The Last Time I Saw Paris
   Stay As Sweet As You Are
   Makin' Faces At The Moon
   Please Don't Talk About Me When I'm Gone
   A Nightingale Sang In Berkeley Square
   Who Cares? (As Long As You Care For Me)
   Bei Mir Bist Du Schoen
   Easter Parade
   I'm Stepping Out With A Memory Tonight
   The Continental
   Time On My Hands
   Snuggled On Your Shoulder
   Rose O' Day (The Filla-Ga-Dusha Song)
   You Call It Madness
   I Got Rhythm
   When My Ship Comes In
   I Cried For You
   Now Is The Hour
   We'll Meet Again
   
   CD 2
   (There'll Be Bluebirds Over) The White Cliffs Of Dover
   I Don't Want To Walk Without You
   Be Careful It's My Heart
   If I Have To Go On Without You
   How Do I Know It's Real?
   Love, You Funny Thing
   I Only Have Eyes For You
   Tears On My Pillow
   Somebody Loves Me
   I Don't Know Why (I Just Do)
   Just A Prayer Away
   Ridin' High
   Along The Santa Fe Trail
   Sioux City Sue
   There's A Gold Mine In The Sky
   Too-Ra-Loo-Ra-Loo-Ral (That's An Irish Lullaby)
   Mother Machree
   When You Wish Upon A Star
   You'll Never Know Sweetheart
   It Had To Be You
   If I Had My Life To Live Over
   Dancing With Tears In My Eyes
   It's Never Too Late (To Say You're Sorry)
   Somebody Else Is Taking My Place
   Anniversary Song
   
   CD 3
   Seems Like Old Times
   There Goes That Song Again
   Imagination
   Time Was
   Bless This House
   The Woodpecker Song (based on Reginalla Campagnola)
   One Dozen Roses
   Blues In The Night
   My Melancholy Baby
   River, Stay `Way From My Door
   Don't Fence Me In
   When The Roses Bloom Again
   Ask Anyone Who Knows
   Two Dreams Met
   And There You Are
   I Threw A Kiss In The Ocean
   Memory Lane
   The Miracle Of The Bells
   When I Lost You
   Don't Worry `Bout Me
   It All Comes Back To Me Now
   Maybe It's Love
   You Didn't Have To Tell Me (I Knew It All The Time)
   Too Late
   God Bless America



2. Kate Smith was a true landmark in American music. No one sang like she did. She recorded for decades - without her voice failing (like so many other singers). And yet, she has been so grossly misrepresented on CD's. Her greatest body of work (in my opinion) is the work she did for RCA (several albums in the 1960's), when her voice was rich beyond belief - and orchestrations lush, contemporary, well recorded. BUT... where are these albums on CD? A few have surfaced, but only a few - and what HAS surfaced has NOT been re-mastered. In fact, much of what has resurfaced on CD is WORSE sounding than the original albums. The lady deserves much better than this. She gave us a lifetime of all-out singing. It's a shame.
   
   This new CD is both a "must-have" and a "disappointment."
   
   A "must-have" because there is simply not much out there for Kate - and this 3 CD set has many songs that have not appeared on other CD compilations.
   
   A "disappointment" for many reasons... No liner notes. No photos. The track listing on Amazon (and practically EVERY website & music store!) is TOTALLY incorrect. The ONLY song in the Amazon.com listing that Kate sings on this set is "God Bless America". She sings NONE of the other songs.
   
   The CD is also disappointing because NONE of the songs were re-mastered. The audio level varies from song to song. Some songs sound pretty good, with her voice WAY up front... while the next song will be so low, you can't understand what she's singing/saying. Many of the songs sounded better/clearer on the albums. By the way, most of these songs were 78 rpms. Only a few appeared on albums - nothing more recent than 1954 (Kate's Capitol Records album).
   
   I was going to give a complete listing of songs, but hey - there are 75 songs on this CD. Way too many to list. There are some VERY early Kate Smith songs on this (Shine On Harvest Moon, for instance), and up to Who Cares (which I'm pretty sure is the version off her Capital Records album, 1954).
   
   I will say, though, it was a joy to hear Seems Like Old Times, Bless This House, Some Sunday Morning, Beautiful Dreamer, etc. Her voice is strong, secure (as always) - but definitely more dated sounding than the volume of work she did for RCA.
   
   Do I recommend this CD? Yeah. It's Kate, after all - and 75 songs for this price is a real bargain. Just don't expect good sound. (I'm actually thinking about running this through my home computer to adjust volumes, clean up the muddy sound on a lot of it, and burn a copy for my own use.) It's at least SOMETHING - until RCA gets off their ... and puts out a Kate Smith collection worthy of the woman.