Les Incontournables [Original recording remastered] [Import]

Product Description
Digitally Remastered Collection of the Recordings by the Legendary Brazilian Vocalist and Guitarist from the Warner Label Archives in a Limited Edition Digipack.

Les Incontournables,Gilberto Gil,Wea,World Music

Average customer rating: An average review for the average listener BEST BROADWAY MUSICAL EVER An AMAZING Broadway hit -- Would make Hugo proud, I believe A Musical So Good It Deserves More Than 5 Stars... One of the greats

Les Miserables (1987 Original Broadway Cast) Alain Boublil , Claude-Michel Schonberg , Frances Rufelle , and Colm Wilkinson Manufacturer: Decca U.S. ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Musical Theater | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music Contemporary Musicals | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music Traditional Vocal Pop | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music Similar Items: The Phantom of the Opera (Original 1986 London Cast) Miss Saigon (Original 1989 London Cast) Les Miserables - The Dream Cast in Concert Wicked (2003 Original Broadway Cast) Rent (1996 Original Broadway Cast) ASIN: B000000OQI Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

1. Overture/Work Song
2. Valjean Arrested/Valjean Forgiven
3. What Have I Done?
4. At the End of the Day
5. I Dreamed a Dream
6. Lovely Ladies
7. Who Am I?
8. Come to Me (Fantine's Death)
9. Confrontation
10. Castle on a Cloud
11. Master of the House
12. The Thenardier Waltz of Treachery
13. Look Down
14. Stars
15. Red and Black
16. Do You Hear the People Sing

Tracks:

1. In My Life
2. A Heart Full of Love
3. Plumet Attack
4. One Day More
5. Upon These Stones (Building the Barricade)
6. On My Own
7. Upon These Stones (At the Barricade)
8. Javert at the Barricade/Little People
9. The First Attack
10. A Little Fall of Rain
11. Drink with Me
12. Bring Him Home - Valjean
13. Dog Eats Dog
14. Javert's Suicide
15. Turning
16. Empty Chairs at Empty Tables - Marius
17. Wedding Chorale/Beggars at the Feast
18. Finale

Amazon.com

After Les Misérables became a huge hit in London, it moved to Broadway, bringing along two stars from the London production, Colm Wilkinson as the heroic Valjean and Frances Ruffelle as the despondent Eponine. Filling out this 1987 cast are Randy Graff (Fantine), Terrence Mann (Javert), David Bryant (Marius), Judy Kuhn (Cosette), Michael Maguire (Enjolras), and Leo Burmester and Jennifer Butt (the Thénardiers). Whether you prefer the London cast or this one just might depend on which one you heard first, though minor revisions to the show since its London debut make the Broadway version more familiar to current audiences. In fact, the 10th anniversary concert might have the best overall cast of the lot, while the three-disc symphonic recording is a must for completists.

Regardless of cast, Les Misérables has become a sensation. Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg's score is filled with beautiful ballads ("Bring Him Home," "I Dreamed a Dream") and rousing anthems ("One Day More," "Do You Hear the People Sing?"), and Victor Hugo's classic novel of a student uprising in early-19th-century France provides a compelling story line that continues to thrill audiences all over the world. --David Horiuchi

Customer Reviews:

An average review for the average listener.......2007-05-08

Looking for a Les Mis album but don't want to get caught up in a debate over so and so being better on London or Broadway or some other show?

I read the book, saw the play, bought this album. Those are my qualifications. As such..

I loved this CD. The sound quality was great, every song was worthwhile, and there was no major problem that would prevent anyone from enjoying their listening experience (despite what you might read on some of these other hyperventilating reviews).

In short: Like the book? Haven't seen the play? Or maybe you have. Either way - Get this CD. You won't regret it.

BEST BROADWAY MUSICAL EVER.......2007-03-25

I HAVE SEEN LES MIZ 6 TIMES, INCLUDING ONCE IN LONDON, AND AS RECENT AS LAST MONTH ON BROADWAY. NOTHING COMPARES TO THIS ORIGINAL CAST ALBUM. THE VOICES ARE RICH AND THE LYRICS CLEAR. THE INSTUMENTALS ARE DYNAMIC AND IT IS EASY TO FOLLOW THE WHOLE STORY LINE AND PICTURE EACH SCENE AS YOU LISTEN.

An AMAZING Broadway hit -- Would make Hugo proud, I believe.......2007-01-08

I began with the abridged version, then listened to the rest on free listings. This musical gives you the story in not only detail but atmoshpere. The songs are heartbreaking, uplifting, terrifying, inspiring, everything the novel was and more. Having read Hugo's long masterpiece is not a pre-requisite to enjoying this fine piece of music, though it does give the listener a feeling of having shared an inside joke.

A Musical So Good It Deserves More Than 5 Stars..........2006-12-31

Okay, so I'm not a "kid" persay, but seeing how I first saw Les Miz when I was 14, am 15 now, and so I figured it would do.
This musical was probably the best thing that I have ever seen. This CD puts together all the wonders and beauty of the musical through the amazingly brilliant (and talented) cast. I have encountered many people who have started out with saying that Broadway is for the weak, but I can safely say that I have shown them the light by playing them this CD. I fall asleep to it, and wake up to it nearly everyday, I listen to it on my iPod while reading the book by Victor Hugo and watch the movies, and while my family think it's a little obsessive of me, I can't help but get it out of my head. Frances Ruffelle (Eponine)'s voice seems to spark something in all those who listen. The best tracks by far have to be:

On My Own
In My Life
A Heart Full of Love
Drink With Me
Lovely Ladies
I Dreamed A Dream
At The End Of The Day
Empty Chairs at Empty Tables

And that's only the first songs I have on first of many iTunes playlists. Among the other CDs of Les Miz that appear, I must recemmend as well the Complete Symphonic Recording. Although it is more expensive, it has all the songs that appear in the musical. This CD has the main bulk, but does not have those little songs that bring each character into more detail. Also, if you feel daring, I recemmend the French Albums. It gives the story more of a feeling of home, since it is France (The Country that speaks French) that the tragically beautiful tale takes place. All in all, this was my first CD of it I got, and I have to say that the music and cast leave a lasting impression. Buy it, and see for yourself.

One of the greats.......2006-12-09

Not normally being a Broadway music fan myself, I must admit i was skeptical when I first discovered this collection some years ago. The book has always been a favorite so I was intrigued at the musical. I was instantly captured by the mood and the bigger than life feel that comes through and, for me, there will never be an improvement on the original cast. In nearly 20 years, I am still not tired of listening to these songs and singing along to my family's dismay. It is truly one of the greats.

Average customer rating: The best one I've heard Great musical! Best singers! if you like les miz you can't go wrong My 1st "Les Mis" Best Les Miz Recording Out There

Les Miserables - The Musical That Swept the World (10th Anniversary Concert at the Royal Albert Hall) Alan Armstrong , Michael Ball , Ruthie Henshall , Michael Maguire , Anthony Crivello , Jenny Galloway , Claude-Michel Schonberg , Colm Wilkinson , and Judy Kuhn Manufacturer: Relativity ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Musical Theater | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Contemporary | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music General | Live Albums | Pop | Styles | Music Vocal Pop | Live Albums | Pop | Styles | Music General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music Contemporary Musicals | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music Traditional Vocal Pop | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music 1990s | By Decade | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Broadway & Vocalists | Indie Music | Stores | Music General | Pop | Indie Music | Stores | Music Traditional & Vocal Pop | Pop | Indie Music | Stores | Music General | Soundtracks | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Les Miserables - The Dream Cast in Concert Les Miserables Original London Cast Miss Saigon (Original 1989 London Cast) The Phantom of the Opera (Original 1986 London Cast) Les Miserables (1987 Original Broadway Cast) ASIN: B0000020C4 Release Date: 1996-07-23

Tracks:

1. Prologue
2. On Parole/The Bishop
3. Valjean's Soliloquy
4. At The End Of The Day
5. I Dreamed A Dream
6. Lovely Ladies
7. Fantine's Arrest
8. The Runaway Cart
9. Who Am I?-The Trial
10. Fantine's Death
11. The Confrontation
12. Castle On A Cloud
13. Master Of The House
14. The Bargain-Waltz Of Treachery
15. Look Down
16. Stars
17. ABC Cafe/Red And Black
18. Do You Hear The People Sing?
19. Rue Plummet-In My Life
20. A Heart Full Of Love

Tracks:

1. The Attack On Rue Plummet
2. One Day More!
3. Building The Barricade/On My Own
4. Back At The Baricade
5. Javert's Arrival/Little People
6. A Little Fall Of Rain
7. Night Of Anguish
8. First Attack
9. Drink With Me
10. Bring Him Home
11. Second Attack/The Final Battle
12. The Sewers
13. Dog Eats Dog
14. Javert's Suicide
15. Turning
16. Empty Chairs At Empty Tables
17. Every Day/A Heart Full Of Love (Reprise)
18. The Wedding Chorale/Beggars At The Feast
19. Epilogue (Finale)
20. Encore 1-Speeches/Do You Hear The People Sing?
21. Encore 2-One Day More

Amazon.com

To celebrate 10 years as the world's most popular musical, the cast of Les Misérables threw a phenomenal birthday party at London's Royal Albert Hall in 1995. A decade after Trevor Nunn directed its premiere at the Barbican Centre, and the subsequent move into what became a permanent home at the West End Palace Theatre, producer Cameron Macintosh felt the time had come for a little outing for "the miserables." Conductor David Charles Abell, having climbed out of the cluttered Palace pit, for one glorious night has the entire Royal Philharmonic Orchestra at his disposal and there are appearances from over 150 singers--birthday celebs from Les Mis stagings worldwide--who flocked to the grandiose venue. Hosts for the night are the 1995 London cast: Colm Wilkinson's Valjean has power and beauty in "Who Am I?" and "Bring Him Home," and Michael Ball is a charming Marius. Miss Saigon herself, Lea Salonga, gets the crowd-pleasing favorite "On My Own." The Albert Hall sounds filled to the brim with an appreciative audience that contributes to the festive atmosphere. The result is a real treat for fans and lovers of Boubil and Schönberg's greatest musical--this double CD is an obligatory item in every collection of Les Mis memorabilia. --Yngvil V.G.

Customer Reviews:

The best one I've heard.......2007-04-10

The first time I ever heard Les Miserables, it was on the Original Broadway cast CD. That CD had great vocals, but I didn't realize how much I was missing until I saw the show in NYC. What sets this recording apart from many others, including the OBC version, is the fact that, like the musical, it is through-sung. The complete symphonic recording is also this way, and has all of the music. Although this CD is lacking a few parts, most noticibly a shortend Lovely Ladies, missing a section with Javert, and Gavroche's death, when looked at in terms of the completeness and vocal abilities, this is the best.

Regarding the cast, Colm Wilkinson is THE Valjean. I love his vocals and the expression he puts into the character. Armstrong, as Therniere, is great, as is Jenny Galloway (Mme Therniere). They are both great actors and convey the comedic nature of the parts well. Hannah Chick, as young Cosette is splendid, especially in the fact that she sings right through the accidental gun shot noise in the middle of her song. Gavroche is priceless. The best I've ever heard. Ruthie Henshall does an absolutely brilliant Fantine, incredibly moving. Michael Ball (Marius) also has the supberb vocal ability and expression so prevolent in this cast.

Now, my two favorite characters, Javert and Eponine...Phillip Quast (Javert) is practically flawless. I personally don't like his interpretation of the prologue, but that's just me. Other than that, perfect. He more than makes up for that with his rendition of Stars, and his soliliquy in which he dies. You can visualize him going mad and jumping from the bridge just from his voice...amazing. Lea Salonga's vocal ability is unmatched. Her rendition of A Little Fall of Rain is tearjerking, and you can fell Eponine's pain and anguish throughout the entire CD. Anything with her in it is worth buying.

Finally, this CD has a recording of One Day More sung by the Valjeans from all over the world...amazing to hear.

To conclude, this is the best recording of Les Miserables you can buy.

Great musical! Best singers!.......2007-03-13

This is my favorite collection because the performers are amazing. I don't like the exploding balloon during little Cosette's song, but the lead singers in this CD couldn't be any better.

if you like les miz you can't go wrong.......2007-03-09

personally I am a sucker for a good musical...and music in general...This however is exceptional. I love it, it is one of my favorite versions of the musical, and I have been eyeing this cd for sometime now, i am so happy to finally have it in my collection. the quality is good, the music great, and the voices are fantastic!

My 1st "Les Mis".......2006-10-27

It took some time for this musical to sink in for me but when I sat down to watch this broadcast the characters, plot, motivation(s) and all the nuances of minor characters fell into place -- it was exquisite. Granted some of the voices might not be up to par for more experienced ears and there are technical glitches here and there but this is my favorite. I still admire Hannah Chick for continuing with Castle on a Cloud in spite of the distraction -- that's an actor. I also find the extended applause at the end of some songs annoying but that doesn't negate the 99.99% pure magic previous.

My main beef is that discography is NOT IN ORDER on the second disc, and that works my nerves. I hate having to go in and edit the list.

What worries me NOW is that when it comes to the time to making a film of the musical it might suffer the same fate that Sweeny Todd seems to have looming in the wings. The Broadway musical (ST) was cast with actors, some happened to be stars. I hate it when something as fine as Sweeny Todd, or Les Miserables, would be filmed with stars (OK, JD is both but the director and leading lady have to go) and not actors.

Filming of Les Miserables -- in my life time please. Would it be asking to much to have someone do a remake of 'The Wiz' with spending a zillion dollars on junk? Ok, ok, ok, I'm going to go listen to Philip Quast who is simply amazing and blows my socks off.

Best Les Miz Recording Out There.......2006-09-23

Now don't you disregard this because it says I'm a kid. I am very experienced in theatre and know exactly what I am talking about.
Colm Wilkinson(Jean Valjean): His enunciation is annoying and he tends to rasp and whispers. Great false but not my favorite Valjean.
Phillip Quast(Javert): Brilliant performance. This Aussie is the perfect Javert, his voice is clear and strong, wrapped in emotion.
Ruthie Henshall(Fantine): In my opinion, the best in the entire cast. Her throaty, crystal voice is absolutely exquisite. My favorite singer. That reviewer who said she has an awful voice seriously needs help! She is breathtaking!
Michael Ball(Marius): What can I say? Wonderful as always. Fantastic actor and very powerful singer. I get chills hearing "Empty Chairs at Empty Tables".
Judy Kuhn(Cosette): Nice voice, I do like her better as Pocahontas or Florence (Chess) though. Her accent is extremely blatant. All in all, Rebecca Caine should have been cast but Judy Kuhn is still very good.
Lea Salonga(Eponine): Wow. That's all I can say. She took my breath away as Kim in Miss Saigon and now in Les Miz, she impresses me once again. A magical rendition of "On My Own" and moves me to tears everytime I listen to her death scene with Michael Ball, "A Little Fall of Rain".
Alun Armstrong and Jenny Galloway(M. and Mme. Thenardier): Hysterical performances by both! Such talents! Jenny Galloway is returning for the Broadway revival in November, too.
Michael Maguire(Enjolras): Annoying accent again. Can't they all just sound English? Still, wonderful voice and great delivery. Very satisfying.
Over all, I highly recommend this recording. It is the best I have heard so far. The Original Broadway one was horrid and the London was okay. But this one is thrilling and moving. Les Miz at its best.

Average customer rating: Absolutely Amazing Superior to the Broadway Cast -- sort of. One of the greatest versions of Les Mis THIS IS THE SECOND BEST! Great for what they had to work with

Les Miserables Original London Cast Various Artists Manufacturer: Red Ink ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | International | Styles | Music Musical Theater | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Similar Items: The Phantom of the Opera (Original 1986 London Cast) Les Miserables - The Dream Cast in Concert Les Miserables - The Musical That Swept the World (10th Anniversary Concert at the Royal Albert Hall) Miss Saigon (Original 1989 London Cast) Les Miserables Complete Symphonic Recording ASIN: B0002E5L5S Release Date: 2004-06-01

Tracks:

1. Prologue: Work Song
2. Prologue: Valijean Arrested/Valijean Forgiven
3. Prologue: What Have I Done?
4. At The End Of The Day
5. I Dreamed A Dream
6. Lovely Ladies
7. Who Am I?
8. Fantine's Death: Come To Me
9. Fantine's Death: Confrontation
10. Castle On A Cloud
11. Master Of The House
12. Thenardier Waltz
13. Stars
14. Look Down
15. Little People
16. Red & Black
17. Do You Hear The People Sing?

Tracks:

1. Love Montage: I Saw Him Once/In My Life/A Heart Full Of Love
2. Plumet Attack
3. One Day More!
4. On My Own
5. The Attack
6. A Little Fall Of Rain
7. Drink With Me
8. Bring Him Home
9. Dog Eat Dog
10. Soliloquy
11. Turning
12. Empty Chairs At Empty Tables
13. Beggar At The Feast
14. Finale

Customer Reviews:

Absolutely Amazing.......2007-04-12

This great soundtrack does well to one of the best musicals of all time. The recording is clean and vibrant and the original London cast shines. Any fan of Les Mis will do well to own this and anyone who wants a touch of class should get it too. It offers up love songs, songs of rebellion, drama, comedy, and runs the gamut of emotions. A fantastic piece. If I had one small problem it is that track 1 (Work Song) cuts out about 1/2 second early, though I believe this is do to the transitioning and closeness of recording of tracks 1 and 2. It's a small grievance that most probably will not notice.

Superior to the Broadway Cast -- sort of........2006-09-07

I'd owned the Original Broadway Cast of Les Miserables for over a year before I bought the London Cast. What finally convinced me to buy the London Cast was the casting -- many of Broadway and the West End's top stars are on this recording (though this musical is what most of them owe their success to).

We can look back in hindsight to the early 80's and see the spectacular cast: Patti LuPone (Eva in Evita, Mrs. Lovett in Sweeney Todd), Colm Wilkinson (Phantom in Phantom of the Opera), Michael Ball (Count Fosco in Woman in White, Alex in Aspects of Love), and Rebecca Caine (Christine in Phantom of the Opera) all stand out. There is nothing like hearing Caine's lush, effortless, crystalline soprano on the song only found on the London recording, "I Saw Him Once." For no other reason than for that additional song, this recording is worth purcashing, even if you already own the Broadway Cast. Not that all of the cast is superior to the Broadway version -- the definitive performances of some of the supporting roles (Enroljas, the Thenardiers, and I also prefer Terrence Mann's Javert) come from that recording. The main supporting roles, however, truly outshine their alternate cast on this one (although Judy Kuhn as Cosette is fantastic!).

The orchestrations are definitely inferior to the Broadway version, however. Many are taken at a slower tempo and played with less gusto. This is particularly evident in "Red and Black," if my memory serves me correctly. Some of the lyrics are sung in an odd way by the man playing Enroljas, as if he's overdramatizing, but that's only one track of thirty-odd tracks. Another minor irritation: Cosette's songs are cut short and placed into a five minute "love montage" which can be found in their full versions on the Broadway cast with the also-great Judy Kuhn.

This is the show that skyrocketed some of these performers to stardom -- Ball, Caine, Wilkinson -- and cemented others' places: LuPone, for example. It's a superb cast recording of one of the greatest musicals in history.

Buy it.

One of the greatest versions of Les Mis.......2006-03-05

I love this version of Les Mis. I am a real fan. I have played it dozens of times. The energy and the music are just wonderful. You'll love it. Performances are terrific. Musical clarity is excellent.

THIS IS THE SECOND BEST!.......2005-10-21

I have reviewd the symponic and 10th anniversary.So.............THIS CD IS THE SECOND BEST ! THE 1rst BEST IS THE 10th ANNIVERSARY! ALUN ARMSTRONG IS THE BEST THENAIRDIER ACTOR EVER!
BUY THIS AND THE 10th ANNIVERSARY!

Great for what they had to work with.......2005-09-10

After the anniversary edition, the begins to pale, but I love it nonetheless. Everyone should listen to it, and preferable listen to it first, before all the other versions. Learn to love the original, and go from there.

Average customer rating: The best one I've heard Great musical! Best singers! if you like les miz you can't go wrong My 1st "Les Mis" Best Les Miz Recording Out There

Les Miserables 10th Anniversary Concert Various Artists Manufacturer: Red Ink ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Musical Theater | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Contemporary | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music General | Live Albums | Pop | Styles | Music Vocal Pop | Live Albums | Pop | Styles | Music General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music Traditional Vocal Pop | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Similar Items: Les Miserables - The Dream Cast in Concert Les Miserables Original London Cast Miss Saigon (Original 1989 London Cast) The Phantom of the Opera (Original 1986 London Cast) Les Miserables (1987 Original Broadway Cast) ASIN: B0002E5O9G Release Date: 2004-06-01

Tracks:

1. Miserables
2. Miserables
3. Miserables
4. Miserables
5. Miserables
6. Miserables
7. Miserables
8. Miserables
9. Miserables
10. Miserables
11. Miserables
12. Miserables
13. Miserables
14. Miserables
15. Miserables
16. Miserables
17. Miserables
18. Miserables
19. Miserables

Amazon.com

To celebrate 10 years as the world's most popular musical, the cast of Les Misérables threw a phenomenal birthday party at London's Royal Albert Hall in 1995. A decade after Trevor Nunn directed its premiere at the Barbican Centre, and the subsequent move into what became a permanent home at the West End Palace Theatre, producer Cameron Macintosh felt the time had come for a little outing for "the miserables." Conductor David Charles Abell, having climbed out of the cluttered Palace pit, for one glorious night has the entire Royal Philharmonic Orchestra at his disposal and there are appearances from over 150 singers--birthday celebs from Les Mis stagings worldwide--who flocked to the grandiose venue. Hosts for the night are the 1995 London cast: Colm Wilkinson's Valjean has power and beauty in "Who Am I?" and "Bring Him Home," and Michael Ball is a charming Marius. Miss Saigon herself, Lea Salonga, gets the crowd-pleasing favorite "On My Own." The Albert Hall sounds filled to the brim with an appreciative audience that contributes to the festive atmosphere. The result is a real treat for fans and lovers of Boubil and Schönberg's greatest musical--this double CD is an obligatory item in every collection of Les Mis memorabilia. --Yngvil V.G.

Customer Reviews:

The best one I've heard.......2007-04-10

The first time I ever heard Les Miserables, it was on the Original Broadway cast CD. That CD had great vocals, but I didn't realize how much I was missing until I saw the show in NYC. What sets this recording apart from many others, including the OBC version, is the fact that, like the musical, it is through-sung. The complete symphonic recording is also this way, and has all of the music. Although this CD is lacking a few parts, most noticibly a shortend Lovely Ladies, missing a section with Javert, and Gavroche's death, when looked at in terms of the completeness and vocal abilities, this is the best.

Regarding the cast, Colm Wilkinson is THE Valjean. I love his vocals and the expression he puts into the character. Armstrong, as Therniere, is great, as is Jenny Galloway (Mme Therniere). They are both great actors and convey the comedic nature of the parts well. Hannah Chick, as young Cosette is splendid, especially in the fact that she sings right through the accidental gun shot noise in the middle of her song. Gavroche is priceless. The best I've ever heard. Ruthie Henshall does an absolutely brilliant Fantine, incredibly moving. Michael Ball (Marius) also has the supberb vocal ability and expression so prevolent in this cast.

Now, my two favorite characters, Javert and Eponine...Phillip Quast (Javert) is practically flawless. I personally don't like his interpretation of the prologue, but that's just me. Other than that, perfect. He more than makes up for that with his rendition of Stars, and his soliliquy in which he dies. You can visualize him going mad and jumping from the bridge just from his voice...amazing. Lea Salonga's vocal ability is unmatched. Her rendition of A Little Fall of Rain is tearjerking, and you can fell Eponine's pain and anguish throughout the entire CD. Anything with her in it is worth buying.

Finally, this CD has a recording of One Day More sung by the Valjeans from all over the world...amazing to hear.

To conclude, this is the best recording of Les Miserables you can buy.

Great musical! Best singers!.......2007-03-13

This is my favorite collection because the performers are amazing. I don't like the exploding balloon during little Cosette's song, but the lead singers in this CD couldn't be any better.

if you like les miz you can't go wrong.......2007-03-09

personally I am a sucker for a good musical...and music in general...This however is exceptional. I love it, it is one of my favorite versions of the musical, and I have been eyeing this cd for sometime now, i am so happy to finally have it in my collection. the quality is good, the music great, and the voices are fantastic!

My 1st "Les Mis".......2006-10-27

It took some time for this musical to sink in for me but when I sat down to watch this broadcast the characters, plot, motivation(s) and all the nuances of minor characters fell into place -- it was exquisite. Granted some of the voices might not be up to par for more experienced ears and there are technical glitches here and there but this is my favorite. I still admire Hannah Chick for continuing with Castle on a Cloud in spite of the distraction -- that's an actor. I also find the extended applause at the end of some songs annoying but that doesn't negate the 99.99% pure magic previous.

My main beef is that discography is NOT IN ORDER on the second disc, and that works my nerves. I hate having to go in and edit the list.

What worries me NOW is that when it comes to the time to making a film of the musical it might suffer the same fate that Sweeny Todd seems to have looming in the wings. The Broadway musical (ST) was cast with actors, some happened to be stars. I hate it when something as fine as Sweeny Todd, or Les Miserables, would be filmed with stars (OK, JD is both but the director and leading lady have to go) and not actors.

Filming of Les Miserables -- in my life time please. Would it be asking to much to have someone do a remake of 'The Wiz' with spending a zillion dollars on junk? Ok, ok, ok, I'm going to go listen to Philip Quast who is simply amazing and blows my socks off.

Best Les Miz Recording Out There.......2006-09-23

Now don't you disregard this because it says I'm a kid. I am very experienced in theatre and know exactly what I am talking about.
Colm Wilkinson(Jean Valjean): His enunciation is annoying and he tends to rasp and whispers. Great false but not my favorite Valjean.
Phillip Quast(Javert): Brilliant performance. This Aussie is the perfect Javert, his voice is clear and strong, wrapped in emotion.
Ruthie Henshall(Fantine): In my opinion, the best in the entire cast. Her throaty, crystal voice is absolutely exquisite. My favorite singer. That reviewer who said she has an awful voice seriously needs help! She is breathtaking!
Michael Ball(Marius): What can I say? Wonderful as always. Fantastic actor and very powerful singer. I get chills hearing "Empty Chairs at Empty Tables".
Judy Kuhn(Cosette): Nice voice, I do like her better as Pocahontas or Florence (Chess) though. Her accent is extremely blatant. All in all, Rebecca Caine should have been cast but Judy Kuhn is still very good.
Lea Salonga(Eponine): Wow. That's all I can say. She took my breath away as Kim in Miss Saigon and now in Les Miz, she impresses me once again. A magical rendition of "On My Own" and moves me to tears everytime I listen to her death scene with Michael Ball, "A Little Fall of Rain".
Alun Armstrong and Jenny Galloway(M. and Mme. Thenardier): Hysterical performances by both! Such talents! Jenny Galloway is returning for the Broadway revival in November, too.
Michael Maguire(Enjolras): Annoying accent again. Can't they all just sound English? Still, wonderful voice and great delivery. Very satisfying.
Over all, I highly recommend this recording. It is the best I have heard so far. The Original Broadway one was horrid and the London was okay. But this one is thrilling and moving. Les Miz at its best.

Average customer rating: Spectacular i would give this musical more stars if i could I would. . . A journey with Esmeralda Notre Dame de Paris

Notre Dame de Paris Richard Cocciante , and Luc Plamondon Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Israel | Middle East | International | Styles | Music Musical Theater | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Musicals | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Notre Dame de Paris Notre Dame de Paris (2000 Studio Cast) [Epic] Romeo & Juliette Le Petit Prince Seul ASIN: B00004U2EZ Release Date: 2000-06-27

Tracks:

1. Le Temps Des Cathedrales
2. Les Sans-Papiers
3. Bohemienne
4. Belle
5. Tu Vas Me Detruire
6. La Cour Des Miracles
7. Ave Maria Paien
8. Florence
9. Les Cloches
10. Etre Pretre Et Aimer Une Femme
11. Dechire
12. La Monture
13. Dieu Que Le Monde Est Injuste
14. Vivre
15. Lune
16. Danse Mon Esmeralda

Customer Reviews:

Spectacular.......2006-07-13

This music is simply breathtaking. Just especially beautiful. I have both this version, the two-CD complete version, and the English. The two-CD set (I think 52 tracks) is the best. This is second best. The music in this abridged CD is not presented in chronological order, however, and sometimes, due to this and the missing tracks, there is something lacking. However, it's just gorgeous music.

The acoustics are amazing. I'm not sure if this is really noticeable unless you hear it immediately before or after the English version. The cast is absolutely amazing. There is so much emotion in their voices.

I'm surprised there is so little about Richard Cocciante, the composer. This music is some of the best I've heard. I would have thought there was an abundance of music written by Richard Cocciante that I haven't heard. From what I can find out online, there isn't. This is just a masterpiece.

There are many reviewers who mention the translation issue. If you think of this as a popular musical, I can see that the translation may be an issue. However, think of it as an opera-- which it also is (not in the classical sense). We don't concern ourselves with the translation of La Traviata, La Boheme. Same with this. . . just enjoy the music.

If you can possibly find the 2 CD complete set (sometimes available for download elsewhere, find it before purchasing this. But, if you can't find it, get this. Also, as a side note. . . the DVD has the entire libretto included and offers English subtitles.

i would give this musical more stars if i could.......2006-05-07

i am so in love with this musical. it was the first french musical i'd ever seen. my french teacher showed it to the whole class after we had translated every single song into english. the hard work definitely paid off. the musical was amazing. i immediately fell in love and became obsessed. i couldn't stop listening to the CD. i love garou and bruno pelletier. they're both very talented, along with everyone else in the musical.

i really want to buy the two-disc CD, but i can't find it. does anyone know where i can buy it?

I would. . ........2006-01-26

. . . highly recommend this album. the songs are beautiful and the singers seem to carry over the emotions that the characters feel to the listener. AWESOME!

A journey with Esmeralda.......2006-01-19

When I first saw the perfomance of Notre Dame de Paris by original francophone troupe of singers for the first time, right away I fell in love with the music of Riccardo Cocciante and the gorgeous voices of the singers.

Being lucky to be able to understand the lyrics, I was pleasantly surprised by the awesome lyrics of Luc Plamondon, even if the lyrics are not necessary to understand the mood and the emotions that the songs transmit, knowing the words helps you to completely immerse into the play and feel the same emotions that the play characters, to live the story yourself.

With "Bohemienne" we see a clear picture of a young gypsy girl wandering in the mountains and valleys of Andalusia, playful and free, a little sad because she lives only for the present, every tomorrow is a new mystery, a new journey.

"Belle" depicts a stunning young woman, with sensual moves and penetrating eyes, dancing on the square while all the men are ready to do anything to be with her.

"Tu va me detruire" demonstrates the unconrolled desire of the priest towards Esmeralda, the man who dedicated all his life to sience and religion who now is ready to surpass all his beliefs, descend to hell only if she would be his. While he is discovering his dark side, Esmeralda falls in love with a beau captaine, Phoebus, who is betraying his fiancée with her.

Meanwhile his fiancée Fleur de Lys is reflecting on how to get her loved one back : in "La monture" she makes plan of vegeance to Esmeralda, she is calling her a witch, the hatred and jelousy are overtaking her while she says to Phoebus "I will come back to you only if Esmeralda will be executed ".

As the story ends the spectator/listener is taken over by
the desperation of innocent and proud Esmeralda before being executed, the depth and the eternity of Quasimodo's feelings.

I really love all the singers and ever since I have Notre Dame de Paris I don't miss an album by any of the singers from the musical. I have discovered for myself such great artists as Garou, Bruno Pelletier, Patrick Fiori.


It's a must for everyone!

Notre Dame de Paris.......2005-09-25

Excellent CD if you want to listen to opera in short. However, if you are really interested, it's better to buy a 2-disc edition or a DVD to enjoy this wonderful music in full.

Average customer rating: Not the Best This is the original for me One Of The Best ! Worst of 4 versions Some problems... but overall, a good album

Les Miserables (1985 Original London Cast) Alain Boublil , Claude-Michel Schonberg , Patti LuPone , Rebecca Caine , Colm Wilkinson , and Frances Ruffelle Manufacturer: Relativity ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Pop | Styles | Music Contemporary | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music Contemporary Musicals | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music Traditional Vocal Pop | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Broadway & Vocalists | Indie Music | Stores | Music General | Pop | Indie Music | Stores | Music Traditional & Vocal Pop | Pop | Indie Music | Stores | Music General | Soundtracks | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Les Miserables (1987 Original Broadway Cast) The Phantom of the Opera (Original 1986 London Cast) Les Miserables - The Dream Cast in Concert Les Miserables - The Musical That Swept the World (10th Anniversary Concert at the Royal Albert Hall) Cats (1981 Original London Cast) ASIN: B000006ONF Release Date: 1998-05-19

Tracks:

1. Prologue: Work Song
2. Prologue: Valijean Arrested/Valijean Forgiven
3. Prologue: What Have I Done?
4. At The End Of The Day
5. I Dreamed A Dream
6. Lovely Ladies
7. Who Am I?
8. Fantine's Death: Come To Me
9. Fantine's Death: Confrontation
10. Castle On A Cloud
11. Master Of The House
12. Thenardier Waltz
13. Stars
14. Look Down
15. Little People
16. Red & Black
17. Do You Hear The People Sing?

Tracks:

1. Love Montage: I Saw Him Once/In My Life/A Heart Full Of Love
2. Plumet Attack
3. One Day More!
4. On My Own
5. The Attack
6. A Little Fall Of Rain
7. Drink With Me
8. Bring Him Home
9. Dog Eat Dog
10. Soliloquy
11. Turning
12. Empty Chairs At Empty Tables
13. Beggar At The Feast
14. Finale

Amazon.com

This recording captures the 1985 London cast that transformed an obscure French musical based on Victor Hugo's gargantuan novel of pre-Revolutionary France into a worldwide phenomenon throughout the late-'80s and '90s and became one of the best examples of the era's trend of blockbuster musical spectacles. Yes, Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schoenberg's score tends to recycle its themes, but the beautiful melodies and stirring anthems rarely fail to captivate and touch its audience. Colm Wilkinson is the heroic Valjean, Patti LuPone is the tragic Fantine, Michael Ball is the love-struck Marius, and Frances Ruffelle is the despondent Eponine, with Roger Allam (Javert), Alun Armstrong and Sue Jane Tanner (the Thénardiers), Rebecca Caine (older Cosette), and David Burt (Enjolras) filling out the excellent cast. Fans will want to take note that this recording includes some material that was revised when the show crossed the pond to Broadway--"Little People" was lost altogether, while the "Love Montage" was significantly rewritten. Les Misérables sounds especially vivid in its 1998 remastering, and a synopsis and full lyrics are included. --David Horiuchi

Customer Reviews:

Not the Best.......2007-06-29

I agree with many of the comments made by others. But let me give some of my own. The London production is an early production of the Les Mis and like all early productions, composers and producers improve the product as it goes to new locations. The New York album is for me infinitely better than the London album. The slowness of the songs in the London production are incredably annoying. The singing is at times pedestrian. Many voices are smaller or less interesting than those in the New York production. The orchestration was enlarged and improved in the New York production. For some songs the orchestration is totally changed. In all there is no comparison. I also love the anniversary production and as a recording would prefer that none. I have not heard the complete ORchestral recording and can not comment on it.

Let me also agree with most of what was said about Ms. Ruffelle as Eponine. She is a disaster and almost distroys the New York album. Strangely she is less annoying in the London album because her singing softer and therefore less annoying. I disagree with those who say she can not annunciate. I also disagree that she has a horrible voice. I think she has a decent pop voice. It just Does not BELONG in this musical. It sounds like a pop singer thrown into the 18th century. She is miscast and totally out of place. I did not know she was a pop singer until I read the comments below. But you could guess it by her style and phrasing. I can not think of any album almost destroyed by a miscasting since I heard the Deutche Gramaphone version of West Side Story with the strange casting of Jose Cararas as Tony. It killed the entire albmu. Luckily, Eponine is a smaller part and it does not totally destroy the LOndon or New York version. I just want to know WHY SHE GOT THIS PART....and then why she further got the part in New York. If someone has the story, PLEASE tell it.

This is the original for me.......2006-10-07

Having seen Les Mis in London twice as a kid, the OLC version is simply the only worthwile version for me. While you could argue that some of the later versions are technically better, they just sound wrong and off-tempo to me.

One Of The Best !.......2006-07-31

Simply put, Les Miserables is one of the greatest musicals ever written for the stage. Both the London and Broadway versions of this classic best each other in terms of superiority, but you can't really go wrong with either.

The marvelous London cast includes Colm Wilkinson as Jean Valjean, Roger Allam as Javert, Patti LuPone as Fantine, Michael Ball as Marius, and Frances Ruffelle as Eponine.

Best Songs include:

At The End Of The Day
I Dreamed A Dream
Come To Me
Master Of The House
Stars
On My Own
A Little Fall Of Rain
Bring Him Home
Empty Chairs At Empty Tables

If I had to choose between the two, I'd lean towards the Broadway version ... though it's hard to pass up anything Ms. LuPone does.

Worst of 4 versions.......2006-07-18

Les Miserables is definitely one of the better musicals out there. Among the four (Original London, Original Broadway, Complete Recording, and 10th Anniversary) most popular versions, however, this is the least appealing. The tempo is slow, providing for some boring listening, plus the casting of some actors is questionable. Among the most annoying cast members is Frances Ruffelle, who should not be in musical theater at all. She has a bad voice, she can't enunciate well (major speech problems there), and worse, she has bad singing technique (cannot sustain long lines and high notes -- incorrect breathing). She doesn't even deserve to be compared to Lea Salonga (who is a million times superior over her Ruffelle). I'd second the thought that if Salonga were old enough to audition for this role in the early 80s, Ruffelle would not even been remotely considered. And no, Ruffelle was NOT invited to join the Dream Cast, even though the concert was going to be held in London; Cameron's asistant, in fact, had to persuade Lea Salonga to give up recording the Miss Saigon Complete Recording just to be a part of this once-in-a-lifetime 10th Anniversary event.

As some reviewers have mentioned, this album is a good buy if one wants to trace the evolution of this mega-musical. If you want the best buck for your money, however, get the 10th Anniversary version (it's live -- it has the dream cast, plus excitement in the air just fills the entire recording). An excellent second choice would be the Complete Symphonic Recording.

Some problems... but overall, a good album.......2006-07-16

The London Cast has issues, it's been criticised as "too slow", and it is the next step up from the French concept album, so the show was still being sorted out. Some of the performers are unremarkable, but the majority are amazing. It is a nice album, but the best overall cast is the Tenth Anniversary Cast. I'd recommend this as a CD to see how the show evolved. I'd also take it over the Broadway and International cast recordings.

However, one thing I noticed when I was reading through the reviews was that if Lea Salonga had been old enough to audition, she would have won the role of Eponine. Uh... NO. Frances Ruffelle was the first choice for the Dream Cast and couldn't make it so Lea was the second choice. Frances is simply amazing and the bucketload of awards Lea won for 'Miss Saigon'? That was Frances back in 1989 for Les Mis.

Average customer rating: You'll be disappointed Pretty good musical mix

Greatest Songs from the Musicals Various Artists Manufacturer: Soho ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | International | Styles | Music General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music International | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: Very Best Of Broadway Musicals Only Broadway CD You'll Ever Need Ultimate Broadway Greatest Hits: Broadway Ultimate Broadway II: The Very Best of Broadway Now ASIN: B000077JS0 Release Date: 2002-10-21

Tracks:

1. Aquarius [From Hair] - Steve Brooker, NSO Ensemble, , Caroline O'Connor
2. If I Can't Love Her [From Beauty and the Beast] - Ethan Freeman, National Symphony Orchestra, Martin Yates
3. I Could Have Danced All Night [From My Fair Lady] - Katrina Murphy, National Symphony Orchestra
4. Can You Feel the Love Tonight? [From The Lion King] - John Barrowman, National Symphony Orchestra, Martin Yates
5. What I Did for Love [from a Chorus Line] - National Symphony Orchestra, Catherine Porter, Martin Yates
6. This Is the Moment [From Jekyll and Hyde] - Gary Mauer, National Symphony Orchestra, Martin Yates
7. All That Jazz [From Chicago] - Paulette Ivory, Julian Kelly, Katrina Murphy, National Symphony Orchestra, Sally Ann Triplett
8. Impossible Dream [From Man of La Mancha] - Ethan Freeman, National Symphony Orchestra, Martin Yates
9. America [From West Side Story] - National Symphony Orchestra
10. Written in the Stars [From Aida] - Simon Bowman, NSO Ensemble, Sally Ann Triplett, Martin Yates
11. Mame [From Mame] - Jerry Lanning, National Symphony Orchestra, Martin Yates
12. Some Enchanted Evening [From South Pacific] - Thomas Allen, John Owen Edwards, Philharmonic Orchestra
13. I Am What I Am [From LA Cage aux Follies] - Janet Glazener, Leslie Uggams
14. One Song Glory [From Rent] - Sean McDermott, Martin Yates

Tracks:

1. Phantom of the Opera [From The Phantom of the Opera] - Ethan Freeman, Claire Moore, National Symphony Orchestra, Martin Yates
2. I Dreamed a Dream [From Les Miserables] - National Symphony Orchestra, Jacqui Scott, Martin Yates
3. Bui Doi [From Miss Saigon] - Ethan Freeman, National Symphony Orchestra, Martin Yates
4. As Long as He Needs Me [From Oliver!] - National Symphony Orchestra,
5. Time Warp [From the Rocky Horror Picture Show] - Anita Dobson, NSO Ensemble, Martin Yates,
6. Memory [From Cats] - Kim Criswell, National Symphony Orchestra, Martin Yates
7. Why God Why [From Miss Saigon] - Graham Bickley, National Symphony Orchestra, Martin Yates
8. I Know Him So Well [From Chess] - Katrina Murphy, NSO Ensemble, Sally Ann Triplett, Martin Yates
9. One Day More [From Les Miserables] - National Symphony Orchestra, Martin Yates
10. Peggy Sue [From Buddy Holly Story] - Dominic Curtis
11. Empty Charis at Empty Tables [From Les Miserables] - Graham Bickley, National Symphony Orchestra, Martin Yates
12. Dancing Queen [From Mamma Mia!] - Julian Kelly, NSO Ensemble, , Caroline O'Connor
13. All I Ask of You [From The Phantom of the Opera] - Andrew Halliday, , National Symphony Orchestra, Martin Yates
14. We Will Rock You [From We Will Rock You] - Martin Yates

Tracks:

1. It's a Grand Night for Singing [From State Fair] - National Symphony Orchestra
2. If I Were a Rich Man [From Fiddler on the Roof] - Jerry Lanning, National Symphony Orchestra
3. I Talk to the Trees [From Paint Your Wagon] - Ethan Freeman, National Symphony Orchestra, Martin Yates
4. Over the Rainbow [From The Wizard of Oz] - Gillian Bevan, , John Owen Edwards, , Royal Shakespeare Company
5. Bless Yore Beautiful Hide [From Seven Brides for Seven Brothers] - Hal Fowler, National Symphony Orchestra, Martin Yates
6. Grease [From Grease] - John Barrowman, NSO Ensemble, Martin Yates
7. Woman in Love [From Guys and Dolls] - Gregg Edelman, , Emily Loesser, National Symphony Orchestra
8. Secret Love [From Calamity Jane] - Debbie Gravitte, National Symphony Orchestra
9. Quintet [From West Side Story] - National Symphony Orchestra
10. I Will Always Love You [From the Best Little Whorehouse in Texas] - Salena Jones, John Pearce
11. Money, Money [From "Caberet"] - Maria Friedman, National Symphony Orchestra, Jonathan Pryce
12. If My Friends Could See Me Now (Sweet Charity) - Jacqueline Dankworth, National Symphony Orchestra, Martin Yates
13. Thank Heaven for Little Girls [From Gigi] - Ron Moody, National Symphony Orchestra, Martin Yates
14. Singin' in the Rain [From Singin' in the Rain] - Craig Barna, National Symphony Orchestra, Paul Robinson

Customer Reviews:

You'll be disappointed.......2006-09-02

Not the original artists. Very weak versions of beloved songs by marginal to downright bad vocalists.

Pretty good musical mix.......2006-03-10

Lots of great and clear vocals. I was looking for a musical mix and this has a nice sampling of many major songs but also some more recent stuff. I haven't purchased an import before but I would do it again if the opportunity presented itself. It is somewhat annoying to have three cds when I think it could have fit onto two. Still, more than I have complaints, I have compliments about it.

Average customer rating: My Favorite Band, the Band of Renown My Favorite Band, the Band of Renown

22 Original Big Band Recordings (1957) Les Brown & His Orchestra Manufacturer: Hindsight Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Jazz | Styles | Music Swing General | Swing Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music Classic Big Band | Swing Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music Contemporary Big Band | Swing Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music Traditional Jazz General | Traditional Jazz & Ragtime | Jazz | Styles | Music Traditional Vocal Pop | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music Traditional Pop | Oldies | Pop | Styles | Music General | Jazz | Indie Music | Stores | Music Swing Jazz | Jazz | Indie Music | Stores | Music Traditional & Vocal Pop | Pop | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Les Brown & His Band of Renown - Best of The Capitol Years Live at the Hollywood Palladium The Lerner and Loewe Bandbook/Richard Rodgers Bandbook Les & Larry Elgart/Les Elgart on Tour Complete Song Books ASIN: B00000180N Release Date: 1992-11-09

Tracks:

1. The Piccolino
2. Frenesi
3. September Song
4. I've Got My Love To Keep Me Warm
5. Where Are You
6. How About You
7. Riding High
8. Pink Coats
9. Love Me Or Leave Me
10. Swingin' At The Met
11. Harlem Nocturne
12. Sentimental Journey
13. Speak Low
14. Countin' The Blues
15. Boy Next Door
16. Moonglow
17. I Never Knew
18. Whatever Lola Wants
19. At Sundown
20. Begin The Beguine
21. Back In Your Own Backyard
22. Rain

Customer Reviews:

My Favorite Band, the Band of Renown.......2000-03-25

I am a die hard fan of Les Brown, so in my book there are no bad recordings by the Band of Renown. Only bad technical quality. However, I don't recall when Piccolino was ever a theme for the band. One of his best known recordings, Leap Frog is better known as the bands theme. The fact this CD is of lesser known recordings, not just the hits, Sentimental Journey, etc., makes this a recording worth buying.

My Favorite Band, the Band of Renown.......2000-03-25

I am a die hard Les Brown fan, so in my book there are no bad recordings by the Band of Renown, only recordings of poor technical quality. I don't recall when Piccolino was ever a Les Brown theme. Leap Frog is more commenly known as the bands theme song. The fact this CD includes lesser known recordings, not just the hits, makes it worth adding to any big band collection.

Average customer rating: redux Moderate Quality POOR EXCUSE FOR SOME GOOD THEATER MUSIC

Ultimate Broadway II: The Very Best of Broadway Now Various Artists Manufacturer: RCA Victor Broadway ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Bernstein | Bernstein, Leonard | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Puccini | Puccini, Giacomo | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Rodgers, Richard | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Sondheim, Stephen | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Musical Theater | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Musicals | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Ultimate Broadway Only Broadway CD You'll Ever Need The Best Of Broadway (Cast Recording Anthology) Greatest Songs from the Musicals The Best of Broadway - The American Musical (PBS Series) ASIN: B000092Q7E Release Date: 2003-05-20

Tracks:

1. Overture (from Gypsy) - London Cast Recording
2. Man of La Mancha (I, Don Quixote) - Brian Stokes Mitchell, Ernie Sabella
3. Run, Freedom, Run! - Hunter Foster
4. Your Daddy's Son - Ted Sperling, Ragtime Orchestra
5. Music Of The Night (From The Phantom Of The Opera) - Colm Wilkinson
6. All That Jazz (from "Chicago") - Bebe Neuwirth
7. Gimme Gimme - Michael Rafter
8. La boh; Act I; O soave fanciulla - Placido Domingo, Sherrill Milnes, Montserrat Caball
9. Next Best Thing To Love - Randy Graff
10. Cabaret - Natasha Richardson
11. Springtime For Hitler (From "The Producers") - John Morris, Mel Brooks
12. Losing My Mind - Barbara Cook
13. Time Warp - Raparza
14. Oklahoma!; Oklahoma - Finale: Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin' (Reprise) - Musical Cast Recording
15. Breeze Off the River - Patrick Wilson
16. Big Spender - Jane Lanier, Valarie Pettiford, Shannon Lewis, Kim Greene, Kim Morgan, Dana Moore, Rachelle Rak, Elizbeth Parkinson, Dede LaBarre, Mary Ann Lamb, Mary McLeod
17. Gee Officer Krupke - Cast
18. Agony - Paul Gemignani
19. Bring Him Home (from Les Miserables) - Colm Wilkinson, Colm
20. Lullaby of Broadway (from "42nd Street") - John Lesko, Jerry Orbach

Customer Reviews:

redux.......2007-07-06

Four of the songs on this CD (Oklahoma, Music of the Night, Cabaret, and All That Jazz) were on the earlier Ultimate Broadway. Of all the shows that have been on Broadway over the past 70+ years, including the ones that are currently running, there is no excuse for repeats!

Moderate Quality.......2003-06-20

I believe that the show selection for this CD was excellent. However the song selection and song order were not. Why pick "Your Daddy's Son" from Ragtime when you can have the amazing and fantastic "Prologue" from the same show. Also I believe that a mistake was made by slecting "I Don Quixote" from Man of La Mancha instead of the much more listenable "Impossible Dream." Also the overture from Gypsy is not the proper song to start out a CD. Perhaps the "Overture" from The Phantom of the Opera.

This is however an excellent example of showtunes for inexperienced members of the theatrical world.

POOR EXCUSE FOR SOME GOOD THEATER MUSIC.......2003-05-20

The best of Broadway? Sure, if you consider the best of Broadway only those songs taken only from RCA Victor cast recordings. Expect the expected: Tracks from "Ragtime," "Chicago," "42nd Street" and "Man of La Mancha," sung by the likes of Audra
McDonald, Bebe Neuwirth, Jerry Orbach and Brian Stokes Mitchell. Including a live recording of Barbara Cook warbling "Losing My Mind" from her "Mostly Sondheim" CD isn't exactly kosher. But then again, neither is this gimmick-riddled release. Curtain up?
Half-way, maybe. Light the lights? Dim them, please.

Average customer rating: Probably the earliest version of Les Miserables, the Musical. Wow! I cant think of a good title! Worthwhile for all Les Miz fans Everything Sounds More Beautiful in French

Les Miserables - The Original French Concept Album Alain Boublil , and Claude-Michel Schonberg Manufacturer: Relativity ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music 1980s | By Decade | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music Similar Items: Notre Dame de Paris Les Misérables (Signet Classics) Les Miserables - The Musical That Swept the World (10th Anniversary Concert at the Royal Albert Hall) Les Miserables - The Dream Cast in Concert Les Miserables (1987 Original Broadway Cast) ASIN: B000003C5B Release Date: 1991-07-01

Tracks:

1. La Journee Est Finie
2. L'Air De La Misere
3. Les Beaux Cheveux Que Voila
4. J'avais Reve D'Une Autre Vie
5. Dietes-moi Ce Qui Se Passe
6. Fantine Et Monsieur Madeleine
7. Mon Prince Est En Chemin
8. Mam'zelle Crapaud
9. La Devise Du Cabaretier
10. Valjean Chez Les Thenardier
11. La Valse De La Fourberie
12. Donnez, Donnez
13. Rouge Et Noir
14. Les Amis De I'ABC

Tracks:

1. A La Vlonte du Peuple
2. Cosette: Dans La Vie
3. Marius: Dans La Vie
4. Voila Le Soir Qui Tombe
5. Le Coeur Au Bonheur (Cosette Et Marius)
6. L'Un Vers L'Autre
7. La Faute A Voltaire
8. La Nuit De L'Angoisse
9. Demain (Final Act 2)
10. Ce N'Est Rien
11. L'Aube Du 6 Juin
12. Noir Ou Blanc
13. La Mort De Gavroche
14. Marius Et Monsieur Gillenormand
15. Le Mariage, 'Soyez Heureux'
16. L'Aveu De Jean Valjean
17. Marchandage Et Revelation
18. Epilogue: La Lumiere

Customer Reviews:

Probably the earliest version of Les Miserables, the Musical........2007-02-23

The reprise at the end of the English version of this musical, "Do you hear the people sing" is not in this early French musical of Les Miserables; appropriately finetuned in the later versions, and there may be other slight variations; but this is absolutely stupendous; to think of how this came out. Too bad Victor Hugo himself could not see it.

Wow!.......2005-12-04

Jacques Mercier is the best Javert I have ever heard. If for no other reason, buy this album for its authenticity (Les Mis was a French book, after all!) and for it's freshness. Mercier's performance and the music used for Javert is not the typical on-the-beat rendition in today's Broadway versions. As Mercier is a rock star, he brings an almost rebellious fervor, self-confidence, and youth to the character of Javert that is not always otherwise portrayed.

I cant think of a good title!.......2005-12-03

Les Miserables is my favorite show. This is the very first album. I am only 9 just to let you know. I have heard some of the album and seen some translations. "Do you hear the people sing" origanly was "To the will of the people". I have the origanal london and symphonic recording and am getting this one for christmas. I love the verson of "Master of the house" or "The Inkeeper's Motto" on this recording ALOT! For you Les Miserables collectors this album is a must have!

Worthwhile for all Les Miz fans.......2005-09-29

This is well worth buying so long as you're not looking for a carbon copy of the English version; fascinating to see the changes from the original to the London stage version, and just beautiful on its own. If you remember a little of your high school French, I suggest you look for this on Amazon's French website. I found new copies for sale there; even with the cost of shipping to the US, they were cheaper than the used ones being sold on the American website.

Everything Sounds More Beautiful in French.......2005-04-05

This is what fans of Les Miserables will be excited to listen to... it's the concept album that Cameron Mackintosch heard that inspired him to produce the history-breaking show and the show that was recieving standing ovations in France.

This a C.D. for the die hard core fans of Les Miserables and despite it's all in French it's a good listen too, you can understand most of the songs based of the melody in the background and you can see how the final Les Miserables was changed in my opinon for the better. Although hearing it sung in French gave a whole new meaning to the show- and it sounding more breathtaking and exquiste than it did before.

It's true what they say everything sounds more beautiful in French!

International Music:

1. Live [Import] [Live]
2. Live [Import] [Live]
3. Makaha Bash, Vol. 3: Live at the Shel [Live]
4. Mask
5. Mediterranean Odyssey
6. Mon Coeur S'envole [Import]
7. Notre Monde a Nous [Import]
8. O Poder Magico [Import]
9. Original Karma [Import]
10. Pacifique [Import]

International Music

International Music