every little dream

About the Artist
Rusty Cloud is a veteran of the rhythm and blues circuit and, in addition to his own releases as a solo artist and with his band "S'Killit" has played with Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes, Little Steven Van Zandt (currently in the hit TV show The Sopranos), Melba Moore, Aretha Franklin, Bo Diddley, The Blues Brothers Band...(the list is endless). In 1994 he joined forces with Claire Cloud, singer/songwriter, to begin the creation of this album. Active performers in New York City and vicinity, they entertain with their band, "Cloudburst" on the East Coast. They have assembled an all-star cast of fellow musicians to play on this album including "Shawn "King Snake" Pelton of Saturday Night Live, Paul "Saskatchewan Slim" Livant, guitarist in Paul Simon's band, Stanley Banks bass player for George Benson's band, Southside Johnny veterans Chris Anderson and David Longworth, New York studio aces, Frank Gravis (bass & that voice!), Graham Hawthorne (drums) Rob Paparozzi (harmonica virtuoso) and John Putnam (guitar) and many more...check out the full credits on the CD.

Product Description
If you like classic rock 'n roll, if you like smooth R&B, and if you like your music to get you in the mood to party, this is the album for you. "Every Little Dream" features diverse songs, all written by Claire & Rusty Cloud, that take you on a musical journey through life's ups and downs, sometimes humorous, sometimes intense, sometimes angry and sometimes rip-roaring party hearty happy. Listeners will get many hours of pleasure out of this album because each song has great melodies, profound lyrics, and appealing arrangements.

every little dream,Claire and Rusty Cloud,Cloudburst Productions, LLC,If you like classic rock 'n roll, if you like smooth R&B, and if you like your music to get you in the mood to party, this is the album for you.

Man of La Mancha: A Decca Broadway Original Cast Album (Original 1965 Broadway Cast)

Average customer rating:

Check out Other Versions. Don't be swayed by Others' Reviews.
beautiful music for a haunting story.....
Man of LaMancha As Good As Ever
Don Quixote
Magnificent voices

Man of La Mancha: A Decca Broadway Original Cast Album (Original 1965 Broadway Cast)
Mitch Leigh , Joe Darion , Richard Kiley , and Joan Diener
Manufacturer: Decca Broadway
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music

General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music

General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Camelot (1960 Original Broadway Cast)
Man of La Mancha
Fiddler on the Roof (1964 Original Broadway Cast)
My Fair Lady (1956 Original Broadway Cast)
The Music Man (1957 Original Broadway Cast)

ASIN: B00005A8KE
Release Date: 2001-03-06

Tracks:

Overture
Man Of La Mancha (I, Don Quixote)
It's All The Same
Dulcinea
I'm Only Thinking Of Him
I Really Like Him - Joan Diener
What Do You Want of Me - Joan Diener
Little Bird, Little Bird
Barber's Song/Golden Helmet
To Each His Dulcinea (To Every Man His Dulcinea)
The Impossible Dream
The Combat (Previously Unreleased Reissue Track)
Dubbing (Knight of the Woeful Countenance) - Joan Diener
The Abduction
Aldonza - Joan Diener
A Little Gossip
Dulcinea (Reprise) /The Impossible Dream (Reprise) /Man of Mancha (Repr - Joan Diener
Finale (The Impossible Dream) - Joan Diener

Amazon.com

Man of La Mancha, the show that introduced "The Impossible Dream" to the world (and lounge singers everywhere), was the hit of the 1965 Broadway season. Richard Kiley is magnificent in his career-defining performance as the deluded wannabe knight Don Quixote. His leading lad Joan Diener sings the role of the kitchen wench Aldonza with just the right balance of dignity and vulgarity. Irving Jacobson turns in a fine comic performance as the Don's faithful squire, Sancho Panza. The score, with music by Mitch Leigh and lyrics by Joe Darion, was revolutionary in its time. The orchestra had no violins--just brass, woodwinds, percussion, and flamenco guitars. Man of La Mancha is one of Broadway's most inspiring musicals and it well deserves its high reputation. --Michael Simmons

Customer Reviews:

Check out Other Versions. Don't be swayed by Others' Reviews........2007-06-09

I've never seen this show on stage and my first exposure to the music was the Sony CD Man of La Mancha featuring Placido Domingo, Pandy Patankin, and Julia Migenes-Johnson. Despite lackluster reviews of the disk, I enjoy it, and when I saw this version at a second hand book/music store, I decided check it out too. My initial impression was that the Sony version was the better disk but decided to compare both versions by setting up a playlist in Media Player, playing tracks from both version back-to-back.

After that test, I have to agree with the reviews here that Richard Kiley is the superior Don Quixote. Domingo's voice is, of course wonderful, but Kiley acts the role better on the CD and Domingo's accent is a major distraction.

In the role of Aldonza - no contest. Julia Mingenes-Johnson's singing and performance on the Sony version is far superior to Joan Diener's. I didn't have to hear the tracks back-to-back to realize that. Ms. Diener's performance just grated on my ears from the beginning.

Bucking the crowd, I prefer Mandy Patankin's Sancho (Sony version) to Irving Jacobson's. I may be biased, having had more exposure to the Sony version, but Patankin seemed to be trying to inject a bit more feeling into the character. Jacobson, singing in an annoying, scratchy voice, came across almost like a cartoon trying to fit in among live characters. It seems like most people either like Patankin or hate him. Guess I'm one of the former.

The Orchestration does seem brighter/clearer in this version compared to the Sony version, but, in general, the tempo on most tracks seems slower than the same tracks on the Sony version. I preferred the up-tempo, Sony versions of "The Barber Song", "Little Bird, Little Bird", "The Dubbing" and "A Little Gossip".

In Summary: For Kiley's Don Quixote, you'll probably want this version, but for tracks featuring Aldonza (and maybe Sancho) you'll want to check out the Sony version. Since I have both disks, I will probably come up with a mix of my favorite tracks, in general, favoring the Sony disk but substituting the tracks that feature Richard Kiley's Don Quixote where I can.

beautiful music for a haunting story............2007-06-07

I remember reading excerpts from Cervantes' DON QUIXOTE, as a Spanish student, way back in junior high school. The saga of the madman fighting windmills and pursuing his illusions [and delusions] was very sad, but very romantic at the same time. When the musical adaptation, MAN OF LA MANCHA, was brought to the stage in 1965, Richard Kiley (as the title character, Don Quixote) absolutely transfixed the audience with his sensitively heartfelt portrayal of the tragic madman. The plight of Don Quixote, who travels on horseback, with his faithful companion, Sancho Panza (Irving Jacobson), and absolutely lovestruck by kitched wench Aldonza (Joan Denier), is alternately pathetic and profound. Perhaps one of the best known (and most remade) songs in the repertoire from LA MANCHA, is "The Impossible Dream." Richard Kiley really make it his own, here, and after you hear his version, it's hard to listen to others' versions of it. It's just not the same. Though, this story is anything but joyful, the music will glide through your ears and carry you on a surrealistic journey through attempted triumph and (ultimately) tragedy.

Man of LaMancha As Good As Ever.......2007-05-07

Very pleased with ourchase of this item. Quality is great as was the price. Delivery was timely. Easy transaction! A++++++++

Don Quixote.......2006-09-14

Back in High School my band leader, Mr. DeYoung, decided (agianst much opposition from those of us in the band let me tell you) to have us perform select pieces from this musical

I hated the idea. But when we began to play, he even had us watch the musical, I fell in love with the melody. The many songs of a man who believes the best in the world. YOu find that in Dulcinea, The Impossible Dream, etc.

From one maginificently rendered song to another, you can be lost in its melodic elegance.

My favorite song is the initial rendition of 'Little Bird, Little Bird'. It's a soft song, sung as a love ballad. In the musical you discover it's being sung to a local whore by a bunch of randy men. Despite that, I still like it.

This along with others are among the great works of the stage!

Magnificent voices.......2006-07-05

Voices and music make a revival of this beautiful play. Full of passion.

Offenbach: La Belle Helene; Orpheus in the Underworld; La Vie Parisienne (Highlights)

Average customer rating:

Champagne Music!

Offenbach: La Belle Helene; Orpheus in the Underworld; La Vie Parisienne (Highlights)

Manufacturer: Class. for Pleas. Us
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Johann Strauss II: Die Fledermaus; The Gypsy Baron (Highlights)
Léhar: The Land of Smiles; The Merry Widow; The Count of Luxembourg (Highlights)
Offenbach: Orpheus in the Underworld / Burgess, Watson, etc (Highlights)

ASIN: B00009KHY3
Release Date: 2003-09-02

Tracks:

Overture
The Happy Bride Never Stumbles
You've Gone Too Far!
May I Make Myself Known?
My Death Appears Divinely Smiling
When Diana Leaves The Mountains
To Arms!
When Jupy Feels The Inclination
Here Comes Orpheus
When I Was King Of The Boeotians
I Thought That I Felt On My Shoulder
What Heavenly Joy Is Mine
Minuet And Galop
Overture
How Sad We've Made The Marchioness
Well Isn't That Just Life All Over?
I'm The Guide For Every Tourist
I Am A Native Of Brazil
In This Enchanting Queen Of Cities
I Am A Dab At Carving Pork
We Have Seen Sights Since Eleven... I'm A Colonel's Widow
Dinner Is Served

Tracks:

Oh, Little Cloud
When She Goes Out... Her Petticoats Go Frou, Frou, Frou
Does He Know He's Splitting Down The Back
Nobody Would Call Me A Rover
I'll Have So Much To Say
It's Most Important You Should Show
Here You See The Place
My Friends, I'm Most Delighted To See You
In Songs And Shouts... Paris Blooms Like A Flower
Introduction
To Bow To Jupiter We Gather At The Shrine
We've Had A Night Out
On Mount Ida Three Great Ladies (The Judgement Of Paris)
March And Entry Of The Kings
Entr'acte
We All Begin By Truly Trying
It Is Her That Has Sent This Sweet Love Dream
Come Here, You Kings Of Greece
When All Of Greece Has Been Ravaged
Do You See?

Customer Reviews:

Champagne Music!.......2006-07-09

Thank goodness that these well filled CDs of selections from three of Offenbach's most entertaining and tuneful operettas are available. Exactly the thing to provide some hearty nourishment for Winter nights. Ideal also for a Summer barbecue. In both cases, a glass of champagne, or at least some other bubbly beverage, would be good to have at hand - everything here no doubt will call for a toast or several.

It is so nice to be able to hear in these translations the witty words, sung with welcome clarity and meaning by these admirable artists. As I recall, there were no microphones in sight, and perhaps not even used, when this production of Orpheus In The Underworld was brought to Australia, with a few cast changes but the same sparkle as shown here. Crisp diction and lively, often lovely, singing - a great recipe for enjoyable listening indeed.

The recording sounds a bit shrill here and there, but what a churlish quibble; to Hades with such curmudgeonly qualifications! This is music to raise the spirits, and not just those from Hades.

Average customer rating:

Brokop Breakout
Wonderful CD
Absolutely great!
NOT AS GOOD AS HER SECOND ALBUM BY CAPITAL RECORDS
Nikki from Philly loves Lisa

Every Little Girl's Dream
Lisa Brokop
Manufacturer: Capitol
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Contemporary Country | Country | Styles | Music

General | Country | Styles | Music

Contemporary | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music

Lisa Brokop
Hey Do You Know Me
Undeniable
Words
This Woman's Heart

ASIN: B000002USD
Release Date: 1994-09-06

Tracks:

Take That
One of Those Nights
You Already Drove Me There
Give Me a Ring Sometime
Every Little Girl's Dream
Never Did Say Goodbye
Who Needs You
Not Here in My Arms
Let Me Live Another Day
Never Gonna Be Your Fool Again

Customer Reviews:

Brokop Breakout.......2007-06-07

Lisa's voice is great, with its own distinctive quality and an accent perfect for country. Excellent album. The songs:

Take That - Snazzy guitar, good drum beat, nice word play on "take that" as if spiting someone and then telling him to take girlfriend's letter

One of Those Nights - good gental love song to her guy

You Already Drove Me There - about love dying

Give Me a Ring Sometime - song about contemplation of marriage, has a good beat and various guitar riffs.

Little Girls Dream - good tune

Never Did Say Goodbye - one of the few weaker tunes

Who Needs You - lively and spirited, begins as a retort to a guy, then about a fight, then about making up

Not Here in My Arms - slower tune, but powerfully sung, guy not to run to singer for comfort

Let Me Live Another Day - the other weaker song

Never Gonna Be Your Fool Again - good, steady beat. Uses clever lyrics to Tell a guy off who cheated.

Wonderful CD.......2006-04-21

When I was a child, I remember listening to the song "Give me a ring sometime" on CMT. I found this album & I couldn't believe it. It was used, so I thought what the heck. I went ahead & bought. I played this CD the day I got it n the mail. It is a wonderful CD. I can't believe I've waited so long 2 buy it. I love every song on this CD. I can't get enough of the CD. I suggest u get this CD, whether it b used or new. It is awesome.

Absolutely great!.......2002-08-09

This is a terrific collection: there's not a bad song on it. Lisa blows Shania, Faith, and the Dixie Chicks away! I don't understand why she's not more popular; she has a great voice and she picks excellent songs.

NOT AS GOOD AS HER SECOND ALBUM BY CAPITAL RECORDS.......2002-05-31

I RECENTLY ACQUIRED THIS ALBUM. I WAS SOMEWHAT DISAPPOINTED. THE PROBLEM IS THAT HER SECOND ALBUM BY CAPITOL RECORDS OUTSHINES THIS ONE. THESE SONGS ARE SLOWER AND MORE SENSUAL OVERALL. THE CAPITOL RECORDS LISA BROKOP ALBUM HAD MORE FIRE AND PASSION TO THE SONGS. I WOULD RECOMMEND FOR ANYONE NEW TO LISA BROKOP, TO PURCHASE THE ALBUM BY CAPITOL RECORDS. FOR ALL YOU DIEHARD LISA BROKOP FANS GO AHEAD AND BUY THIS ONE ALSO. JUST BE FOREWARNED THE TWO ALBUMS ARE AS DIFFERENT AS NIGHT AND DAY. NOW IF LISA WOULD PUT FIFTEEN MORE ALBUMS ON THE MARKET WITH THE SAME STYLE AND QUALITY AS HER SECOND ALBUM, I WOULD GET MYSELF ONE OF EVERYONE OF THEM.

Nikki from Philly loves Lisa.......1999-06-19

Anything that Lisa does, she does with finesse and style. She has the voice of an angel that will set your soul afire. Do your music collection a favor, and get this CD.

Average customer rating:

Great Musicals

Manufacturer: Rajon
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Modern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

English | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Rock | Imports | Stores | Music
ASIN: B000682FF4
Release Date: 2004-11-15

Tracks:

Oklahoma Suite: Oklahoma!/Oh, What a Beautiful Morning/The Surrey With
My Fair Lady Suite: Ascot Gavotte/Wouldn't It Be Loverly?/With a ...
Annie Get Your Gun Suite: Doin' What Comes Natur'lly/You Can't Get ...
King and I Suite: The March of Siamese Children/I Whistle a Happy Tune
Sound of Music Suite: The Sound of Music/My Favourite Things/Do-Re-Mi
West Side Story: The Jet Song/America/Tonight/Something's Coming/Maria

Tracks:

Porgy and Bess Suite: Summertime/I Got Plenty O' Nuttin'/I Loves ...
South Pacific Suite: Bali Ha'i/A Cockeyed Optimist/Some Enchanted ...
Guys and Dolls Suite: Luck Be a Lady/Fugue for Tinhorns/Follow the ...
Carousel Suite: The Carousel Waltz/Mister Snow/June Is Bustin' Out All

Tracks:

Joseph & The Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat: Any Dream Will ...
Evita: Don't Cry for Me Argentina/Another Suitcase in Another Hall
Jesus Christ Superstar: Jesus Christ Superstar/I Don't Know How to ...
Cats: Memory/Macavity the Mystery Cat/Mister Misoffeles
Phantom of the Opera: Phantom of the Opera/All I Ask of You/Angel ...

Album Description

Australian exclusive 3-CD set from the Rajon label's 'Great Series'. 2004.

Average customer rating:

Symphony 9: Introduction to Dvorak
Dvorak
Manufacturer: Naxos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Instructional | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

An Introduction to Brahms' Piano Concerto No. 2
An Introduction to Schubert's Piano Quintet "Trout"
Classics Explained: Pastoral Symphony
An Introduction to Vivaldi's "The Four Seasons"
Classics Explained: Rite of Spring

ASIN: B000069HGK
Release Date: 2002-09-17

Average customer rating:

Music of Jerome Kern

Manufacturer: Collectables
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Jazz | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music

Orchestral Pop | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Music of George Gershwin
The Music of Irving Berlin
Music of Cole Porter/Music of Vincent Youmans

ASIN: B00002CEYH
Release Date: 1999-11-09

Tracks:

(When Your Heart's On Fire) Smoke Gets In Your Eyes - Yesterdays
I've Told Every Little Star - The Song Is You
The Night Was Made For Love - She Didn't Say Yes - All The Things You Are
Look For The Silver Lining - They Didn't Believe Me - Long Ago (And Far Away)
I Dream Too Much - The Jockey On The Carrousel
Why Was I Born? - The Way You Look Tonight: Who?
Make Believe - Bill
Why Do I Love You? - You Are Love - Ol' Man River

Les Miserables - The Complete Symphonic Recording

Average customer rating:

Great, definitely go with this and TAC
Awesome
Bought it used - thank God!
magnificent!
Mixed Feelings

Les Miserables - The Complete Symphonic Recording
Claude-Michel Schonberg
Manufacturer: Relativity
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Pop | Styles | Music

Contemporary | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music

Traditional Vocal Pop | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music

General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

One Hundred Flowers by Georgia O'Keeffe
Little Ol' Cowgirl
The Low-Carb Cookbook: The Complete Guide to the Healthy Low-Carbohydrate Lifestyle with over 250 Delicious Recipes
Target Costing: The Next Frontier in Strategic Cost Management
Sapphire and Steel - The Complete Series

ASIN: B000003BVK
Release Date: 1990-05-22

Tracks:

Prologue
Valjean's Soliloquy (What Have I Done?)
At The End Of The Day
I Dreamed A Dream
Lovely Ladies
Fantine's Arrest
The Runaway Cart
Who Am I?-The Trial
Fantine's Death
The Confrontation
Castle On A Cloud
Master Of The House

Tracks:

The Bargain-The Waltz Of Treachery
Look Down
The Robbery-Javert's Intervention (Another Brawl)
Stars
Eponine's Errand
The ABC Cafe-Red And Black
Do You Hear The People Sing?
Rue Plumet-In My LIfe
A Heart Full Of Love
The Attack On Rue Plumet
One Day More!
At The Barricade (Upon These Stones)
On My Own
Building The Barricade
Javert's Arrival
Little People
A Little Fall Of Rain
Night Of Anguish
First Attack

Tracks:

Drink With Me
Bring Him Home
Dawn Of Anguish
The Second Attack (Death Of Gavroche)
The Final Battle
The Sewers-Dog Eats Dog
Javert's Suicide
Turning
Empty Chairs At Empty Tables
Every Day (Marius And Cosette)
Valjean's Confession
The Wedding Chorale- Beggars At The Feast
Epilogue (Finale)
Bonus Track

Customer Reviews:

Great, definitely go with this and TAC.......2005-08-31

Right now, there are four official English-language versions of Les Miserables: the Original London Cast Recording, the Original Broadway Cast Recording, the Complete Symphonic Recording, and the 10th Anniversary Concert Recording. Les Mis' addicts are best served by purchasing all recordings, as they showcase different stages (as in the OLC and the OBC) of the development of this mega-musical, as well as the interesting variations in presentation and performances by the different casts and orchestras.

If you're the average musical-theater listener who can't afford to buy all available English-language recordings, however, my advice would be to get the CSR (due to the fact that it's "complete") and the TAC recording (due to the fact that performer- and performance-wise, it's leaps and bounds better than all of the other recordings). You deserve no less.

Awesome.......2005-07-03

I can't believe all the negative comments about Gary Morris. He is so much better in the role than Colm Wilkinson. I've seen Gary perform the part three times and there is NO better Jean ValJean (seen the play 14 times). It's an international cast and some of the accents do take time getting used to. But the power of the music supercedes it all. Listen with your heart people. It's so incredible.

Bought it used - thank God!.......2005-06-17

"Les Miserables" is a marvelous musical; a stunningly faithful interpretation of Victor Hugo's masterpiece, with an inspiring storyline and unforgettable characters. There are 2 reasons for buying a Les Mis CD - (1) you've seen a performance and want ONE CD to remind you of it or (2) you've become a les Mis junkie (like me) and want multiple versions so you too can hold forth on the rival merits of Andy Warlow vs Michael Maguire, Patty LuPone vs Ruthie Henshaw, Frances Ruffelle vs Kaho Shimada vs Lea Solonga. If you are in the first category, you really want the Tenth Anniversary Concert. The TAC has the complete storyline (albeit slightly abridged), it was recorded live (so there's an unique intensity and chemistry between performers), and from top to bottom it has by far the best cast.

However, if you're a serious Les Mis fan, you should buy this CD (in addition), simply because it does have the complete score. (The trouble with THAT is that it includes practically the only misstep in the whole script - if Jean Valjean has his number branded on his chest, then how is it credible that someone else will be convicted in his place?) I bought it for that reason and to hear other interpretations of the roles (in particular Andy Warlow's). I have all 4 versions, and they have all have their pluses and minuses, but frankly, I'm glad I didn't pay full price for this one. This version has a rather weak cast in general, but that does add to the fun arguing about it. On the plus side, it has Philip Quast ( THE BEST Javert, but he's even better on the TAC), Michael Ball (THE BEST Marius, also on the OLC and TAC versions), and Andy Warlow (a stirring Enjorlas for sure, but not THAT much better than Michael Maguire on the OBC and TAC). The scenes at the barricade are the best part of the CD. Kaho Shimada is an uneven Eponine, OK sometimes, less so at others. Debbie Byrne (Fantine) is OK, but I don't find her as moving as Patty LuPone (OLC) or Ruthie Henshaw (TAC). Tracy Shayne (Cosette) is irratating, not nearly as sweet as Judy Kuhn (OLB and TAC) or even Rebecca Caine (OLC). I find Barry James and especially Gay Soper (M. and Mme. Thenardier) grating as well.

I really miss Colm Wilkinson (OLC, OBC and TAC). OK, he has a unique singing style, but such heart. Not always perfect, but so powerful and emotional. All his solos and "Confrontation" just stop me dead in my tracks. The sweetness and purity of his "Bring Him Home" and "Epilogue" move me to tears. But really, there must be someone else who can do at least an adequate job or the show wouldn't have run so long in so many venues. I am willing to listen to another interpretation, but not this one. This is the central role in the play, it really can't survive without a good performance here. Gary Morris is horrible as Jean Valjean, cringe-provoking at times, merely weak at others. He's totally overmatched by Quast in "Confrontation" and by everyone in "One Day More" and "Epilogue". I haven't tried the recommendation of one reviewer of listening while squinting and shaking my head hard, but I don't see how that will help. Morris's "What have I done?", "Bring Him Home" and "Valjean's Confession" make me cover my ears or send me running for the fast forward button, although "Who am I?" isn't so bad. (I just tried the head shaking trick, it didn't help.)

magnificent!.......2005-06-15

Ok, I admit it. I have long been a fan of musicals, but I was only exposed to Les Mis a few months ago. My roommate loaned me this recording, and I fell in love. I played nothing but this soundtrack for the next several weeks.

As this is the only recording I've heard fully, I cannot give any comparisons between the performers here and those on other versions, but I do wish to give my general impression of the cast.

*Gary Morris (Valjean) - he has a strong, clear voice with which it is hard to find fault. He sings with emotion and passion, and I cannot imagine ever tiring of hearing him as Jean Valjean. If I had to give a complaint, it would be that I could imagine a voice with a little more distinct character...something a little riskier for the part of someone so complex.

*Philip Quast (Javert) - wow, I love deep voices, and his is so rich! I love when he hits the low note near the beginning of "Confrontation" ...I've seriously replayed that part over and over again just because it sends shivers through me...haha, I think you get the idea. This guy is good.

*Debbie Byrne (Fantine) - her voice took some getting used to because at first it seemed to me a little uncontrolled, almost like she could capture the fullness of the sound but not quite hit the notes. However, the more I listen to her, the more I enjoy her. Her voice has a wonderful texture, something you totally miss when listening to the super-clear, trilling sopranos that seem to be found all over most other musicals.

*Kaho Shimada (Eponine) - her voice took a little getting used to as well. I was a little confused until I realized she was Japanese, for though I wouldn't say you hear an accent, her voice does have a very different quality to it. Still, I enjoyed her performance very much. Her voice is trembling with emotion the entire time, almost like she can hardly control it...it is quite moving.

*Tracy Shayne (Cosette) - wow. I'm sorry, is Cosette supposed to be this shrill? Turn it off! While I'm impressed at some of the notes she hits, I don't think it's supposed to make you want to cover your ears.

*Michael Ball (Marius) -Ball makes Marius, a rather annoying character if you ask me, into someone actually likable, if not lovable. He's passionate and romantic, but not vapid. Probably my favorite vocal performance.

*Gay Soper and Barry James (the Thernardiers) - their voices are rather grating, but that's the point, right? Very entertaining performances...particularly in "Master of the House" (which, it's true, somehow manages to be stuck in your head all day).

*Anthony Warlow (Enjorolas) - very appropriate voice...manly and vibrant. If he doesn't make you want to go out and fight, then there's no help for you!

Overall, the performances were wonderful. I highly recommend this CD. A great recording of a great musical!

Mixed Feelings.......2005-04-20

I bought this recently, and it was an object lesson in why I ought to research an item before purchasing it.

For me, it's truly a toss-up as to whether this is a recording worth purchasing. The main benefit-a far from insignificant one-is that it is a complete recording full of much more materiel than can be found on the London or Broadway cast recordings. Basically, I was far from satisfied. The liner notes are error ridden, and the casting was not as good as possible. Gary Morris struck me as too young for the part, and Gay Soper (Mme. Thenardier) has a voice akin to the sound of fingernails on a chalkboard. But, in the absence of a complete Broadway recording, this still may be the best version available to buy. Be sure, however, to supplement it with another version. (The Tenth Anniversary recording might be the best.)

Average customer rating:

Collection: Say It With Music (Dlx)
Andr Kostelanetz
Manufacturer: Collectables
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

General | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music

Easy Listening | Pop | Indie Music | Stores | Music
ASIN: B00007L8X4
Release Date: 2003-02-18

Tracks:

Say It With Music Remember Blue Skies
Top Hat White Tie And Tails How Deep Is The Ocean (How High
This Is The Army Oh How I Hate To Get Up In The Morning Soft
Whatll I Do Always The Song Is Ended (But The Melody Lingers
The Piccolino Cheek To Cheek
White Christmas
The Girl That I Marry Say It Isnt So Mandy
Give Me Your Tired Your Poor God Bless America
Smoke Gets In Your Eyes Yesterdays
Ive Told Every Little Star The Song Is You
The Night Was Made For Love She Didnt Say Yes All The Things
Look For The Silver Lining They Didnt Believe Me Long Ago (A
I Dream Too Much The Jockey On The Carrousel
Why Was I Born The Way You Look Tonight Who
Make Believe Bill
Why Do I Love You You Are Love Ol Man River
Fascinatin Rhythm
Mine
The Man I Love
Embraceable You Soon
I Got Rhythm
Bess Oh Wheres My Bess
S Wonderful
Maybe
Someone To Watch Over Me Oh Lady Be Good
Embraceable You
Strike Up The Band
Begin The Beguine
All Through The Night
I Concentrate On You
I Love You
Night And Day
In The Still Of The Night
Ive Got You Under My Skin
Blow Gabriel Blow
Just One Of Those Things (Bonus Track)
Hallelujah Time On My Hands
Tea For Two
Carioca
Without A Song
More Than You Know
Orchids In The Moonlight
Sometimes Im Happy I Know That You Know
Through The Years Drums In My Heart
Malaguena
La Cumparsita
Mexicana Medley
Yours (Quiereme Mucho)
Siboney
Caminito
Adios
No Taboleiro De Bahiana
The Moon Of Manakoora
Lotus Land
Kashmiri Song
Jamaican Rhumba
Flamingo
Poinciana (Song Of The Tree)
Andalucia
Sweet Leilani (Bonus Track)
Frenesi (Cancion Tropical) (Bonus Track)
Show Boat
South Pacific
Slaughter On Tenth Avenue
An American In Paris
Porgy And Bess

Album Description

The multi-faceted Andre Kostelanetz left his mark on the music world as an acclaimed conductor/arranger/accompanist. His most notable contribution is the creation of the Easy Listening genre, done by bridging the gap between Classical and Pop music. Highlights on this 6 CD box set include Irving Berlin's 'Cheek To Cheek', George Gershwin's 'The Man I Love' and Jerome Kern's 'Smoke Gets In Your Eyes'. Includes 3 bonus tracks 'Just One Of Those Things' (Cole Porter), 'Sweet Leilani' (from Waikiki Wedding) & 'Frenesi' (Cancion Tropical). Standard jewel cases housed in a deluxe wooden box w/hinged lid (approx. 6 x 5''). Collectables. 2003.

Onward Victoria (1981 Original Cast Members)

Average customer rating:

JILL EICHENBERRY ASTOUNDS IN THIS VERY MUSICAL BROADWAY DISASTER . . . .
Melodies for a change - Thank God!

Onward Victoria (1981 Original Cast Members)
Book Charlotte Anker & Irene Rosenberg
Manufacturer: Original Cast Record
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music

General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music

General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

Broadway & Vocalists | Indie Music | Stores | Music

General | Soundtracks | Indie Music | Stores | Music
ASIN: B000004CPM
Release Date: 2003-06-17

Tracks:

Overture
In New York the Only Sin Is Being Timid - Beth Austin, Jill Eikenberry
Magnetic Healing - Beth Austin, Jill Eikenberry, Lenny Wolpe
Taste of Forever - Jill Eikenberry
I Depend on You - Beth Austin, Jill Eikenberry
Onward Victoria - Beth Austin, Jill Eikenberry
Changes - Jill Eikenberry
Woman Like Beth - Michael Zaslow
Unescorted Women - Beth Austin, Jill Eikenberry, Lenny Wolpe
Love and Joy - Jill Eikenberry, Michael Zaslow
Everyday I Do a Little Something for the Lord
You Cannot Drown the Dream - Jill Eikenberry, Laura Waterbury
Respectable - Beth Austin
Another Life - Jill Eikenberry
Read It in the Weekly - Jill Eikenberry
Valentine for Beecher
Beecher's Defense - Jill Eikenberry
Finale - Beth Austin, Jill Eikenberry, Michael Zaslow

Customer Reviews:

JILL EICHENBERRY ASTOUNDS IN THIS VERY MUSICAL BROADWAY DISASTER . . . . .......2006-12-26

". . . appealing and gutsy . . . " (William Raidy, Newark Star-Ledger) ". . . An engaging musical . . . a musical with a message and a welcome surprise . . . " (Jeffrey Lyons, CBS Radio) ". . . the show casts a pall over the audience." (Frank Rich, New York Times) ". . . a lifeless score and humorless book . . . " (John Kendrick, [...]) "Considered by some to be one of the ten worst Broadway plays. " (Victoria Woodhull website)

After three weeks of previews, ONWARD VICTORIA opened (and closed) at the Martin Beck Theatre on December 14, 1980. Eight months later, members of the original cast gathered at RCA Studios in New York to record the show. I, for one, am extremely grateful that they did and am indebted to Original Cast Records for its remastered 1994 CD release. Usually in agreement with John Kendrick, I do not find the score "lifeless." Rather, I find it refreshing and inventive; an "old-fashioned" Broadway score in the very best sense of the term.

Economic reality has extracted a heavy toll from the Broadway musical, primarily in the number of singers and dancers employed and the size and quality of the orchestra. String sections have been replaced by synthesizers; a crack dance corps and a separate big-voiced chorus have given way to 16 or fewer singer/dancers who do neither as well as they did in the good old days; the overture has all but disappeared; excellence has been replaced by ordinary. Not the case with ONWARD VICTORIA.

Just give a listen to the excellent vocal writing and choral work in the opening number "In New York The Only Sin Is Being Timid" (listed as "The Age of Brass" on opening night), Victoria's campaign song "Onward Victoria" (or, "Victoria's Banner"), "You Cannot Drown the Dream," and the hymn-parody "A Valentine for Beecher;" and the stand-up-and-cheer second act finale. Incidentally, are those Bach-trumpets I hear in "Valentine?" Maybe the book was humorless, but catch the references to incest as per Sophocles in "Something for the Lord," artfully sung by Jim Jansen, and this line - and others - from "Beecher's Defense": "Plymouth Church should be proud to have a preacher so endowed." Not all the lyrics are as inspired as these ("Love and Joy" is a case in point), but even Oscar Hammerstein, II, penned a few clinkers. How about this gem from SOUND OF MUSIC: "You need someone older and wiser telling you what to do-ooh. I am 17 going on 18. I'll take care of you."

The cast is uniformly excellent, but Jill Eikenberry is a revelation! Known primarily as "Ann Kelsey" on TVs "LA Law" (153 episodes, 1986-1994), she reveals herself as a fine singer-actress in the role of Victoria Woodhull, a feminist who, decades before women won the right to vote, was the Equal Rights Party candidate for President, running against incumbent Ulysses S. Grant. In addition to her campaign-style numbers, Ms. Eikenberry gives us two lovely, character-building ballads, "I've Had a Taste of Forever" & "Another Life." Beth Austin, as Woodhull's sister Tennie Clafin, joins Victoria in "Magnetic Healing" & "I Depend on You" and gets her chance to shine in the big, brassy, show-stopping "Respectable." Lenny Wolpe (Feldzieg in THE DROWSY CHAPERONE), as restaurateur Charlie Delmonico, has a great time with "Unescorted Women;" Jim Jansen (Post Office prosecutor Anthony Comstock) gleefully reveals "Every Day I Do a Little Something for the Lord;" Michael Zaslow (Henry Ward Beecher, charismatic preacher of Brooklyn's Plymouth Church) explains away his wife's infidelity with "A Woman Like Beth" and joins Victoria in "Love and Joy," the only number that, in my opinion, doesn't succeed.

A "lifeless score?" I think not. Rather, a delightful score that transcends its appallingly bad book. (See also WHOOP-UP, ANYONE CAN WHISTLE, et. al.) Without a complete rewrite of the book, it's doubtful that ONWARD VICTORIA will ever again find its way onto the stage, so let's be grateful that this fine recording, with members of the original Broadway cast, is here for us to enjoy.

Highly recommended.

Melodies for a change - Thank God!.......2002-12-13

I thoroughly enjoyed ONWARD VICTORIA'S lush score. I am unable, even after 2 weeks, to get Mr. Herrmann's melodies out of my head. It is unfortunate that the theatrical environment of today only encourages the big, garish, pop scores of the talent-less British wave of writers. I hope Mr. Herrmann keeps on doing what he is doing - Thank you Keith Herrmann!