Jesus Christ Superstar Soundtrack CD - Import

 Broadway excitment comes through on CD
Excellent recorded version of Webber's original tunes done by stars who honed them in night after night of performance. This is the definitive recording if you want to feel as though you're watching and hearing the show in a theatre with an excellent cast. The sparse musical arrangement is tight and does not detract from the lyrics Rice worked hard on to get across. I recommend it highly!
Submitted by dpc69 (New Orleans LA) 
Was This Review Helpful? Yes No

 This may be my preferred recording of this score!
Yes, it's a highlights recording, with only about half the score (roughly 45 minutes long. And yes Lloyd Webber was very unhappy with the visual aspect of this production--which was admittedly strange. But the performances and the recording are superb and deserve attention from anyone who enjoys this famous score. First of all, it features a brilliant star turn by Ben Vereen as Judas. In fact, it's the role that made him a star. Barry Dennen as Pilate and Yvonne Elliman as Magdalene return from the original studio concept album, with yet more depth and insight into their roles than the first time. This recording marks the debut of the lovely post-crucifixion song by the apostles, "Could We Start Again, Please" (written at the suggestion of the original director, Frank Corsaro). And the pit orchestra plays with far more fire and imagination than the original studio orchestra. "Herod's Song", "Heaven on their Minds" and "Everything's Alright" really cook! (Check out the bass player, who's all over his instrument). And at half length, this recording avoids the repetiveness that mars the piece as a whole. You probably need a complete recording of this if you are a fan of the piece or of musical theater, but if you want an alternative performance as well, this should be your first choice.
Submitted by a reviewer (Teaneck NJ) 
Was This Review Helpful? Yes No

Have you heard this album?