Search - Debbie Shapiro Gravitte :: Alan Menken Album

Singer better than songs

sahba@u.washington.edu | 04/23/2003

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Clearly among the many influenced by the now senior citizen, Streisand, Debbie Shapiro Gravitte, stands out as an old fashioned singer who, in the style of Garland, Merman, and the happily still available Barbra, can handle a wide variety of material with aplomb. As with the others mentioned, she seems to be at her best with the songs that give her a chance to belt it outto the balconies, but also, like the others, she can give heart to a ballad as well. In this album, some of the material gives her a chance to be outstanding, a few fail her, but overall, she makes the most of what is given her. Few will go away without asking for more on CD from this first class talent."

All great song choices, almost all well done

jgambol@newsies.org | San Francisco | 08/14/1998

(4 out of 5 stars)

"The best things about this album are the unknown songs: "Growing Boy" from a Babe Ruth musical, an erotic paean to down-home cookin'; "Daughter of God", which moved me to tears; and "Take Care of My Heart", a spare, exquisite song about love beyond distance. The known songs don't fare quite as well, but I don't know if that's the fault of Debbie Gravitte, her producer, her arranger, or mine for being used to the "original" covers of "Part of Your World," "Beauty and the Beast," "Santa Fe", etc. Still, Gravitte shines on the great ballads, including the gorgeous "Suddenly Seymour" and "You Are the Only One", as well as in the impish swing tune "One Jump Ahead" and the uniquely arranged "Seize the Day". A great introduction for this Menken fan who only knew his Disney work previously."

Menken's classic and never before released masterpieces.

sahba@u.washington.edu | Seattle, Washington | 07/28/1998

(4 out of 5 stars)

"If you like musical theater, you'll greatly appreciate this special album featuring some of the most beautiful songs ever to hit the stage or screen. Alan Menken, one of the most prolific, respected, and award-winning movie and musical composers, presents some of his songs from Disney fame, as well as some hidden gems from his own musical productions. Combing a hip style, and Debbie Shapiro Gravitte's beautiful and enchanting voice, this album provides the best of Alan Menken.It's Menken at his best."