Bells Are Ringing (2001 Revival Broadway Cast)
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Canadian Music Store CD DetailsEdition: Music CDFormat: Cast Recording CD Release Date: 2001-06-26 Music Label: Varese Sarabande Soundtracks:
Music reviews of Bells Are Ringing (2001 Revival Broadway Cast)Music Review: Have "Faith" in These Bells
Let's face it..."Bells Are Ringing" is hardly a substantive Broadway classic. It's theme is dated, as are its notions of the male/female relationship, and many of its references remain staunchly in the 1950s conventionailty of its genesis. But you know what? These shortcomings are equally some of this shows definite charms. "Bells..." is a quintessential example of the Broadway musical's prime years of the 50s and 60s. It's light, entertaining, funny, hummable, and just plain fun. There's none of the "sterm-and-drang" that would come post-Viet Nam. This new recording, quite frankly, is a vast improvement over the original for one simple reason: the two leads can actually sing. Judy Holliday was a marvel of an actress, and this show was tailored to her abilities, but her raspy voice actually detracted from the cleverness of these songs. And Sidney Chaplin, poor soul, was a hapless singer even at the best of times. This time out, Faith Prince reinvents the role as her own and displays both the musical and comedic flair that make her such a unique presence on the legit stage. If only she received more roles of this stature. Can somebody please tailor a new vehicle worthy of her talents? Mark Kudisch brings a pleasing baritone and an effortless energy to his role, and the two play off one another beautifully on this recording. Although some of these songs have dated somewhat, it's still a thrill to hear them delivered as if they were just composed. Of course, "Just in Time" and "The Party's Over" have justifiable reputations, but there are more goodies behind the hits. "It's a Perfect Relationship", "Hello, Hello There", "Drop a Name" and I'm Going Back" are all lively and delicious musical cotton candy, funny and fun to hear with these performers. What makes this CD so good is that it's one of the best produced original cast recordings in years. The singers sound like they're right next to you, adding to the intimacy and personable nature of their characters. There's none of the bobast and canyon-like distance so typical of the post-Lloyd Webber age. Here, you feel like you're listening to a couple of old chums and you're just aching for them to find each other. Of course, you know they will, but their musical journey is still a hoot. This "Bells Are Ringing" is a simple, direct, joyously ebullient lark from start to finish. It's a great addition to any Broadway collection, and a reminder of why those simple musical-comedy shows were such a treat in their heydey. Enjoy.
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