Search - Jerome Kern, Oscar Hammerstein II, Andre Jobin :: Showboat (1971 London Revival Cast)

There is one reason to listen this album: Cleo Laine

Sasha | at sea...sailing somewhere | 02/03/2001

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This is recording of "Show Boat" as performed in London's Adelphi Theatre in 1971 - there were numerous versions of this legendary musical,but this one lasted 910 (!) performances and it was the longest-ever-running of "Show Boat" on stage.It's different from other versions of "Show Boat" as Andre Jobin and Lorna Dallas were opera singers,so naturally the whole production had a light-operatic sound.As this musical worked on a stage for 43 years before 1971. it has to bring something different - in this case some old songs were added - "How'd you like to spoon with me" was written even BEFORE original "Show Boat",and "Nobody Else but Me" was added from 1946. Broadway revival.With so many "Show Boats" to choose from,I recommend this one which was a big succes for Cleo Laine,wonderful and talented british jazz singer in the role of Julie.Cleo was THE reason why this show lasted so long and as the words about her spread across Atlantic,she made her legendary concert debut in Carnegie Hall,which in turn opened doors to her international carrer.Laine's versions of "Can't Help Lovin Dat Man","Bill" and "Nobody Else But Me" are breathtaking,I suggest to listen this album simply because she was great in that role - she did theatre music before ("Valmouth") and after ("Cleo sings Sondheim") but you have to hear this one!"

Very much enjoyed this CD.

ZEV KAPTOWSKY | Jerusalem, Israel | 12/09/2001

(4 out of 5 stars)

"I really enjoyed this rendition of Show Boat, In my opinion it's much better than the Movie Soundtrack. It is a little difficult to get used to the English pronunciations on some of the songs ("cot-ton blossom" instead of "cot'n blossom"). But I got used to it. The meat and potato songs" "Can't Help Lovin' that Man of Mine" and "Ol' Man River" are really great! Actually, the only song that I enjoyed less than than the Movie Soundtrack was "After the Ball" and even that wasn't bad. Would definitely recommend this CD"

Glorius Excerpts

HB | Fort Mill, SC | 06/06/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"If you only want a very good sampling of Showboat, this CD is for you. The performance is extremely vital and passionate. The singing is simply magnificent. If only those American Idol singers could sing like this. And the sound is as clear as a bell. I found this CD at a dollar store. It has turned out to be one great bargain."