Not Perfect

Track Listings

1. Take My Hand

2. I Believe in God

3. Faith

4. Not Perfect

5. Life Is Worth Fighting For

6. Strayed

7. Common People

8. Where Is God?

9. Shades of Gray

10. Matter of Time

11. And Can It Be

Tracks:

Take My Hand
I Believe In God
Faith
Not Perfect
Life Is Worth Fighting For
Strayed
Common People
Where Is God
Shades Of Grey
Matter Of Time
And Can It Be

Customer Reviews:

Best Christian CD I've Ever Heard!!!.......2006-02-27

Like the other reviewers on here, I was stunned after listening to "Not Perfect". What's ironic is this CD IS PERFECT. All these songs are masterful. Musically it's a bit like DC Talk, especially Toby Mac and Kevin Max. But it's more smooth, more consistently good, song after song. The mix of rock and R&B with pop is appealing to almost everyone. The songwriting and playing is flawless. When you listen to this CD, you really can go from start to finish and enjoy every song.

All these songs will speak to you in a special way. Grace seems to be an overarching theme on Not Perfect. God's perfect grace. This is a great disc to give to a non Christian, as the music will be the door to questions. Most Christian music has a wannabe sound. This is authentic and as good as anything secular. Go find this CD and then share it with friends.

2005 and still a MUST have.......2005-01-11

I discovered this CD in 1999, and listened to it all the time. I've not found a more powerful collection of music on any other CD. Every song speaks to me....and each time I listen to it causes me to reflect and think about life. This is an awesome CD to give to a non-Christian.....everyone can relate to the lyrics. I lost track of it through several moves, but came across it today and have it playing in the background. If you haven't heard this CD, you need to.

A Must-Have.......2004-07-09

God literally delivered this CD into my hands a year or so ago. I had never heard of the group and was skeptical to say the least. But after giving it a spin, I was instantly hooked and it has become one of my all-time favorites (on par with Jars of Clay). Exquisite lyrics and impressive production quality make this CD a thing of beauty. If more Christian music had sounded like this in my teen years, my CD collection would look very different today. Thank you God, and thank you Church of Rhythm.

2003, and still the best CD.......2003-04-06

First let me point out that this band has broken up and is no longer putting out new material. For those who have stumbled across this review, please please please read on.
I bought this CD when I was a junior in high school when it was first released back in 1997. Five years later this is still the best CD I own, and I own over 400 CD's.
Through the years this CD has made me smile, cry, dance, sit in wonder, praise, and reflect. I honestly can not think of a CD that has effected my life in the way this CD has.
As the years have gone on and this CD has dropped in price, I'll run across it in a store for a couple of dollars. I can't help but pick up a copy to give to a friend in hopes that it effects them in the same way it has me.
Max, the main song writer on this album, has since moved on to the band Superchick, and I only wish they could find the pure passion found on "Not Perfect."
"Not Perfect," is truely a gem in a land of dirt. Don't pass this CD up. If you buy it and don't like it, you can always send it to me. I can think of many more who could use it.

The not perfect experience.......2001-12-28

I feal that this cd is a blessing to all who give it a chance to change their lives. I feal that the music is powerful and up lifting. I wish this cd was easier to find. I have been looking for it for three years and as you know I found it and was so excited when I could order it. I feal that this cd should be made more public and should be easily acceseble.

Tracks:

Jesus Christ Superstar: Overture - Andrew Lloyd Webber
Jesus Christ Superstar: Everything's Alright - Yvonne Elliman/Murray Head/Ian Gilllan
Jesus Christ Superstar: I Don't Know How To Love Him - Yvonne Elliman
Jesus Christ Superstar: Gethsemane (I Only Want To Say) - Steve Balsamo
Jesus Christ Superstar: Superstar - Murray Head
Evita: Oh What A Circus/Sing You Fools - Antonio Banderas
Evita: I'd Be Surprisingly Good For You - Elaine Paige/Joss Ackland
Evita: Another Suitcase In Another Hall - Barbara Dickson
Evita: Don't Cry For Me Argentina - Julie Covington
Evita: High Flying, Adored - Mandy Patinkin/Patti LuPone
Cats: The Jellicle Ball - Andrew Lloyd Weber
Cats: Memory - Elaine Paige
Cats: Gus: The Theatre Cat - Susan Jane Tanner/John Mills
Cats: Mr Mistoffelees - Paul Nicholas
Song And Dance: Take That Look Off Your Face - Marti Webb
Song And Dance: Tell Me On A Sunday - Marti Webb
Song And Dance: Unexpected Song - Sarah Brightman
Song And Dance: Nothing Like You've Ever Known - Sarah Brightman
Song And Dance: Introduction - Andrew Lloyd Webber
Song And Dance: Variations 1 -4 - Andrew Lloyd Webber

Tracks:

Starlight Express: Starlight Express - El Debarge
Starlight Express: Crazy - Greg Ellis/Reva Rice/Caron Cardelle/Samantha Lane/Voyd
Starlight Express: Next Time You Fall In Love - Reva Rice/Greg Ellis
Starlight Express: I Am The Starlight - Lon Satton/Ray Shell
Starlight Express: Light At The End Of The Tunnel - The Company
Requiem: Hosanna - Placido Domingo
Requiem: Pie jesu - Sarah Brightman/Paul Miles-Kingston
The Phantom Of The Opera: The Phantom Of The Opera - Michael Crawford/Sarah Brightman
The Phantom Of The Opera: The Music Of The Night - Michael Crawford
The Phantom Of The Opera: All I Ask Of You - Sarah Brightman/Steve Barton
The Phantom Of The Opera: Entr'acte - Andrew Lloyd Webber
The Phantom Of The Opera: Masquerade - The Company
The Phantom Of The Opera: Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again - Sarah Brightman
Aspects Of Love: Aspects Of Aspects - Orchester Der Vereinigten Buehnen Wien
Aspects Of Love: Love Changes Everything - Michael Ball
Aspects Of Love: Seeing Is Believing - Michael Ball/Ann Crumb
Aspects Of Love: The First Man You Remember - Kevin Colson/Diana Morrison
Aspects Of Love: Anything But Lonely - Sarah Brightman
Aspects Of Love: Chanson D'Enfance - Sarah Brightman

Tracks:

Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat: Any Dream Will Do - Jason Donovan
Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat: Joseph's Coat - Maria Friedman/Richard Attenborough/Donny Osmond
Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat: Close Every Door - Donny Osmond
By Jeeves: Travel Hopefully - John Scherer/Martin Jarvis/Don Stephenson
By Jeeves: When Love Arrives - Steven Pacey/Diana Morrison
By Jeeves: Half A Moment - Sarah Brightman
Sunset Boulevard: With One Look - Glenn Close
Sunset Boulevard: New Ways To Dream - Glenn Close/Alan Campbell
Sunset Boulevard: The Perfect Year - Glenn Close/Alan Campbell
Sunset Boulevard: Sunser Boulevard - Alan Campbell
Sunset Boulevard: As If We Never Said Goodbye - Glenn Close
Whistle Down The Wind: Whistle Down The Wind - James Graeme/Lottie Mayor
Whistle Down The Wind: Cold - Everly Brothers
Whistle Down The Wind: No Matter What - Children/Adult Chorus
Whistle Down The Wind: The Nature Of The Beast - Marcus Lovett/Lottie Mayor
The Beautiful Game: Overture - Andrew Lloyd Webber
The Beautiful Game: The Beautiful Game - The Company
The Beautiful Game: Our Kind Of Love - Hannah Waddingham
The Beautiful Game: Dont Like You - Josie Walker/David Shannon
The Beautiful Game: Let Us Love In Peace - Josie Walker/Omagh Youth Community Choir

Tracks:

Oh What A Circus - David Essex
Memory - Betty Buckley
The Phantom Of The Opera - Sarah Brightman/Steve Harley
All I Ask Of You - Sarah Brightman/Cliff Richard
Love Changes Everything - Michael Ball
Any Dream Will Do - Donny Osmond
Amigos Para Siempre (Friends For Life) - Sarah Brightman/Jose Carreras
As If We Never Said Goodbye - Barbra Streisand
The Perfect Year - Dina Carroll
With One Look - Petula Clark
You Must Love Me - Madonna
The Heart Is Slow To Learn - Kiri Te Kanawa
A Kiss Is A Terrible Thing To Waste - The Metal Philharmonic Orchestra
Whistle Down The Wind - Tina Arena
No Matter What - Boyzone
The Vaults Of Heaven - Tom Jones
Try Not To Be Afraid - Boy George
Pie Jesu - Charlotte Church

Tracks:

Make Believe Love - Wes Sands
Down Thru' Summer - Ross Hannaman
I'll Give All My Love To Southend - Ross Hannaman
Believe Me I Will - Sacha Distel
Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (1969 Radio Luxembourg Commercial) - Joseph Consortium/Pete Murray
Try It And See - Rita Pavone
Come Back Richard Your Country Needs You - Time Rice And The Webber Group
Goodbye Seattle - Paul Raven
John 19:41 - The Andrew Lloyd Webber Orchestra
What A Line To Go Out On - Yvonne Elliman
Disillusion Me - Gary Band
The Ballad Of Robert And Peter - Tim Rice
Christmas Dream - Maynard Williams
It's Only Your Lover Returning/All Through My Crazy And Wild Days/Don't Cry For Me Argentina - Julie Covington
It's Easy For You (1977 Jungle Room Session Version) - Elvis Presley
Magdalena - Tony Christie
Buenos Aires - The Roja Rockers
Pollicle Dogs And Jellicle Cats - Andrew Lloyd Webber
Mungojerrie And Rumpleteazer (Live At The Sydmonton Festival 1980) - Gemma Craven
I Could Have Given You More - Petula Clark
I've Been In Love Too Long - Marti Webb
Benedicite - The Stephen Hill Singers

Album Description

Disc 1: Selections from Jesus Christ Superstar, Evita, Cats, and Song and Dance

Disc 2: Selections from Starlight Express, Requiem, Phantom of the Opera, and Aspects of Love

Disc 3: Selections from Joseph nad the Amaziong Technicolor Dreamcoat, By Jeeves, Sunset Boulevard, Whistle Down the Wind, and The Beautiful Game

CD 4: 1. "Oh What a Circus" --David Essex 2. "Memory" - Betty Buckleey 3. "The Phantom of the Opera" -Sarah Brightman, Steve Harley 4. "All I Ask of You" --Sarah Brightman, Cliff Richard 5. "Love Changes Everything"--Michael Ball 6. "Any Dream Will Do"--Donny Osmond 7. "Amigos Para Siempre (Friends for Life)"--Sarah Brightman, Jose Caerras 8. "As if We Never Said Goodbye"--Barbra Streisand 9. "The Perfect Year"--Dina Carroll 10. "With One Look" --Petula Clark 11. "You Must Love Me" 12. "The Heart Is Slow To Learn" --Kiri Te Kanawa 13. "Whistle Down the Wind"--Tina Arena 14. "A Kiss Is a Terrible Thing To Waste"--The Metal Philharmonic 15. "No Matter What"--Boyzone 16. "The Vaults of Heaven"--Tom Jones and Sounds of Blackness 17. "Try Not To Be Afraid"--Boy George 18. "Pie Jesu"--Charlotte Church

Disc 5: (All tracks available for the first time) 1. "Make Believe Love"--Wes Sands 2. "Down Thru' Summer"--Ross Hannaman 3. "I'll Give All My Love to Southend"--Ross Hannaman 4. "Believe Me I Will"--Sacha Distel 5. "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat: 1969 Luxembourg Radio Commercial--The Jospeh Consortium, Pete Murray 6. "Try It and See"--Rita Pavone 7. "Come Back Richard Your Country Needs You"--Tim Rice and the Webber Group 8. "Goodbye Seattle"-- Paul Raven 9. "John 19:41"--The Andrew Lloyd Webber Orchestra 10. "What a Line To Go Out On"--Yvonne Elliman 11. "Disillusion Me" --Gary Bond 12. "The Ballad of Robert and Peter"--Tim Rice 13. "Christmas Dream" --Maynard Williams 14. "It's Only Your Lover Returning/All through My Wild and Crazy Days/Don't Cry for Me Argentina--Julie Covington 15. "It's Easy for You" (1977 Jungle Room Session version)--Elvis Presley 16. "Magdalena"--Tony Christie 17. "Buenos Aires"--The Rioja Rockers 18. "Pollicle Dogs and Jellicle Cats"--Andrew Lloyd Webber original demo 19. "Mungojerrie and Rumpleteazer" (Live at Sydmonton Festival 1980)-Gemma Craven 20. "I Could Have Given You More"--Petula Clark 21. "I've Been in Love Too Long"--Marti Webb 22. "Benedicte"-- Stephen Hill Singers

Customer Reviews:

I waited for this for five years.......2006-06-30

Between Amazone, Ebay and Napster, I don't usually buy CDs anymore, and I usually wait till I can buy them cheaper "new and used". When this set came out, I was excited, mainly by Disc 5, but wasn't going to spend $70 on it. I waited till it was cheap enough, and got it for Father's day this year.
It was worth the wait.

The concept is great. The packaging is great. The recording is great. Disc five is really cool for an ALW aficionado. There are a few real gems on it; my favorites are Petula Clark's "I Could Have Given You More" and "Benedicite."
I've always thought "Gus the Theatre Cat" made a great medley on the piano with "Unexpected Song" and "I DOn't Know How to Love Him," but wished there was an alternate lyric to match the other two songs. Now that I know there *is*, and it's a good lyric, it's a dream come true.
The melody of "Benedicite" is one of my favorites from _Sunset_ (the book mis-identifies it as "SUrrender"; it's actually "The Lady's Paying" and "Eternal Youth is Worth a Little Suffering"). The lyrics are the canticle from Daniel 3, which comes up every odd Sunday in the Divine Office, so it's nice to have cool music to sing it with.

I haven't bought _By Jeeves_ or _THe Beautiful Game_ yet, to it was great to sample them.

There are other parts of the CD taht aren't found in my collection. I like CD 4 "The Hits."

But the selections on CDs 1-3 don't make sense.

First, any self-respecting ALW fan has the Original London Cast of _Phantom_, so six tracks are totally useless. Why not draw from the Canadian cast with Colm Wilkinson? Or pull out some obscure recordings never published.

Why two different tracks with Michael Ball singing "Love Changes Everything", yet they're hardly any different?

On Disc 5 is "It's Only Your Lover Returning," sung by Julie Covington. It's an early draft of the song (Lloyd Webber and Rice went through several suggested titles) and quite nice. The very thing one expects on a Boxed Set.
So why have the Julie Covington "Don't Cry for Me" on disc 1?? The only difference is a few words, but it's otherwise identical. Why not Elaine Paige or Patti Lupone or Madonna?

The _Evita_ section is otherwise the best, choosing a sample from each major recording, though I'd have chosen slightly differently (as above).

There is a great selection of "Mungojerrie and Rumpleteazer" from the Sydmonton festival, using the original music that was changed when _Cats_ went to Broadway_. It would have been nice if they'd included more recordings from Sydmonton, like the original lyric of "All I Ask of You" shown on the second DVD to the _Phantom_ movie.

With so many great actress-singers who've played Norma Desmond, why does the collection beat us over the head with Glenn Close?

Paul Miles Kingston must be set for life in royalties, for the number of albums the original recording of "Pie Jesu" has appeared on. "Amigos Para Siempre" is nice, but it reminds me of Shari Lewis's "The Song that Doesn't End," especially when it's been used on so many compilations.

In short, this is a great collection for the obscure material, if you can get it cheap. But for a boxed set, it's a poor sampling, drawn mostly from the most familiar recordings.

Excellent collection but BIG PUBLISHING MISTAKE! .......2006-01-10

Please beware they made a mistake on this. It's actually the shortened Ray Shell version of STARLIGHT EXPRESS from the original 1984 London cast - NOT the El Debarge single from 1987 like it says on the box. I don't know how they let that goof pass. Sorry to Ray Shell. Having said that, this is an outstanding compilation of Lloyd Webber's greatest hits.

ONE OF LLOYD WEBBER'S BEST COMPILATIONS, DESPITE A FEW FLAWS.......2005-03-21

Regardless of the fact that some of his latest efforts (most notably, The Woman in White) are disappointing, there can be little doubt that Andrew Lloyd Webber is one of the greatest composers ever to work in the musical theatre. Ever since his "Jesus Christ Superstar" hit the stage in the early 70-is, it was clear that the conception and perception of musicals are never going to be the same again. Many of his songs became standards not only in the theatre history, but also as tops on the charts. Even though he's British, his influence on the shape of the modern musical theatre expanded over the West End boundaries long ago and has thus made an enormous impact on Broadway. Two of his shows ("Cats" and "The phantom of the opera") hold the record as two the longest running shows in the history of Broadway. He has also been the only composer to have three of his shows running at Broadway concurrently. Some of his awards include three Grammies, a Golden Globe, an Oscar and a bunch of Tony awards. But perhaps most of all, Lloyd Webber is responsible for bringing the musicals and the theatre appealing to the wide audiences, who in different circumstances would not consider seeing a musical. The secret of his success is probably the mixture of beautiful and catchy melodies, interesting subject matter (though some, like Starlight Express, are too thin) and grandiose staging.

Over the years many compilations of his work have emerged. In the late 80-is and early 90-is it was the "Encore" series and lately the one-disc collection called "Gold". The one in question here can be considered one of the best currently on the market. First, it includes a 3-disc selections from all of his shows, minus the latest one, i.e., "The Woman in White", which, considering the triviality of the score, is no great lost. The fourth disc covers some of his most known songs sung by the famous artists. Then, there is the fifth disc with previously unreleased material, most of which are the songs ALW wrote with Tim Rice for various artists during the 70-is. The disks are all neatly packed in a hardcover book that features 67 pages of pictures and text with information about each of ALW's shows. One of the other assets here is the perfect sound quality, since all of the tracks have been digitally remastered.

Here are my basic impressions and comments regarding the material on the discs:

* Disc #1 has the selections from "Jesus Christ Superstar", "Evita", "Cats" and "Song & Dance". The Superstar material mostly comes from the Concept Recording. Although the songs sound beautiful as always, their orchestration is a bit dated now. Only Steve Balsamo's "Gethsemane" from the 1996 revival cast has a modern rock sound. "Evita" comes with the material from all of the major recordings: London, Broadway and the movie productions, as well as the Concept album. No objections here; since this is one of ALW's most satisfying works, every song is just perfect, although Patti LuPone, the Broadway and overall the best Evita, is left with only a couple of lines. With the selections from "Cats", however, I have some doubts. A plus to the choice of the "Jellicle ball" impressive orchestral sequence from the 1998 movie version and "Mister Mistoffelees" from the 1981 London cast. One of the best known ALW's songs, "Memory", also comes from that album. It's a pretty version and Elaine Paige's rendition cannot be matched, but why include this when the definite version, featuring an 80-piece orchestra and Elaine Paige with much better interpretation, can be found in the same movie version. Thusly, one has to buy Elaine Paige's latest 2-disc compilation "Centre Stage: The very best of Elaine Paige" to get that one. And "Gus the theatre cat" is more a recital than a song, so there was not much point in including that. Marti Webb brings her vocal charm to the "Song & Dance" sequence, Sarah Brightman sings "Unexpected song" with her famous soprano, but as much as I like her version, Bernadette Peters, who was in this show on Broadway is strangely left out here.

* Disc # 2 starts with "Starlight Express". This was never one of my favorite ALW's shows; the plot is even lighter than in "Cats" and the 1984 original cast recording is terribly dated. Yet, here we have one terrific duet, "I am starlight" from the original together with three songs from the later revivals and it seems that fresh orchestrations were just the thing Starlight needed. My favorite remains a touchy ballad, "Next time you fall in love". "Requiem" is the most solemn of all ALW's compositions, written in 1985 to commemorate the death of his father. Placido Domingo's tenor rides together with the chorus all the way through the strong "Hosanna", only to be joined by Sarah Brightman in the final moments of this song. She then gives an echoing deliverance of "Pie Jesu". What can be said of ALW's next show, "The Phantom of the Opera"? A phenomenon in its own right, it's easy to see from the six numbers included here why this is one of the best and most beloved musicals of all time. The cast, the music, the story - everything is perfect. Although "Aspects of love" was never a popular hit, it does have some of the most beautiful love melodies ALW has ever written. "Love changes everything" sung by Michael Ball is probably one of the best tunes ever about love. The rest of the selected material here has a dreamy love flavor and the melodies find their way into your brain in the best Lloyd Webber way.

* ALW's first musical, "Joseph and the amazing Technicolor dreamcoat" was more successful in its revival form than the original from the 70-is. The three songs included here are sung by the show stars, Jason Donovan and Donny Osmond. Maria Friedman was not a lucky choice to play the narrator, as the track from the 1998 movie version shows. "By Jeeves" was ALW's only big flop when it came to the stage in the 70-is. The 1995 revival sounds much better though, full of funny numbers in the best manner of the musical comedy. "Travel hopefully" remains one of the show's highlights on this compilation. "Sunset Boulevard" comes next. "Sunset" remains for me one of Webber's best scores; lush and beautiful. I listen to the original cast recording with Patti LuPone all the time. However, here most of the songs are performed by Glenn Close. A big mistake. If you've ever listened the American premiere recording with her, you'll know what I am talking about. She may have a strong stage presence, but her vocal abilities are too limited, and her aggressive approach to the role lacks any subtlety. Therefore, the two big numbers from this show, "With one look" and "As if we never said goodbye" are ruined by the fact she can't sing. The same goes for the American Joe Gillis, who was played by Alan Campbell. Luckily, Patti LuPone and Kevin Anderson, the original Norma and Joe from the London production, make their brief entrance here with the "Perfect year"; enough to show how better they are. The funny thing is, on the jacket and inside of it, Glenn Close and Alan Campbell are credited as performers in this song as well. If this was a mistake on ALW's part, it was a good one. The next ALW's show, "Whistle down the wind" was never a critic's dear and yet the audiences rushed in to see it in London. The score brings back ALW to his rock and roll roots of the seventies and the story is quite interesting. But the selections here are not the happiest, since the cast recording boasts with much better songs. And finally, "The Beautiful Game". Again, we have one of those ALW's shows that is worth in its individual parts rather than as a whole. "Our kind of love" and "Let us love in peace" are two catchy ballads. The latter is a nice amalgam version not available elsewhere. The two other tracks here I could live without.

* Disc # 4 has the songs from all the above shows performed by different artists. The assembled tracks have their pros and cons. For example, we have some previously unreleased stuff, like Dame Kiri Te Kanawa's operettic rendition of "The heart is slow to learn", or a stunning and epic "A kiss is a terrible thing to waste" from "Whistle down the wind", performed by The Metal Philharmonic Orchestra. Then again, what was the point in including almost identical tracks as the ones on the previous disks? So we have Michael Ball again singing "Love changes everything" with only a bit different orchestration; Sarah Brightman comes out again with the same Phantom duets, but only with the different male singers. It would be much more appropriate to include tracks from the Toronto Cast of the Phantom, with Colm Wilkinson. Other pop deliverances (Tina Arena's "Whistle down the wind", Barbra Streisand's "As if we never said goodbye", Boyzone's "No matter what" and many more) were wisely chosen. Patti LuPone is again nowhere to be found and Petula Clark's "With one look" sounds too worn-out.

* The last disc is probably the one that will be of most interest to Lloyd Webber aficionados. It consists of entirely previously unreleased material ALW for the most part wrote for various artists during his early years, with Tim Rice. Some of these tunes, not successful as a singles, were later used in his shows. Thus "Down thru' summer" became "Buenos Aires"in Evita, "Try it and see", an unsuccessful attempt for the Eurovision was used for "King Herod's song" in "Superstar" and so on. Some of these songs are nicely made pop songs: "Make believe love", ALW's first recorded composition, for which he provided the lyrics; "Goodbye Seattle", sung by Paul Raven, who later became Gary Glitter; "Come back Richard, your country needs you", from a never made musical, sung here by Tim Rice, or Latin flavored "Magdalena", with Tony Christie singing. My all time favorite here is a song called "It's easy for you", sung by none other than Elvis Presley himself. Lloyd Webber and Rice sent him a demo recording that he accepted and recorded this live version a couple of weeks before he died. It's amazing to hear how his voice remained in the perfect shape. Also, there is a track of Andrew Lloyd Webber singing "Policle dogs and Jellicle cats" while plying the piano. His voice doesn't sound bad at all.

Taken as a whole, this compilation makes a perfect birthday or Christmas present to any fan of Andrew Lloyd Webber shows, or just anybody interested in some of the best tunes from the modern era of the musical theatre; despite the flaws I mentioned above. To the former, it may just be the final addition for the Andrew Lloyd Webber collection.

SUCH MAGICAL MUSIC OF THE NIGHT!.......2003-01-19

"Evita." "Sunset Blvd." "Starlight Express." "Jesus Christ Superstar." "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat." "Requiem." "Aspects of Love." The man who is the most recognized composer in the history of the musical theatre, the man who has won more Tonys than any other composer, the man who boasts the best-selling show of all time ("The Phantom of the
Opera") and the longest-running show of all time ("Cats"), the man whose homes are filled with three Grammys, five Oliviers, a Golden Globe, and Oscar and too many other honors and hosannas to mention, the man knighted in 1992 certainly doesn't need an introduction. Now Decca Broadway pays tribute to Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber with "Now and Forever," a spectacular 5-CD set compiled and produced by Sir Andy himself. It's cheaper than a
ticket to "The Producers" ... and more much exciting. This treasure trove contains highlights from all of Webber's shows, and a bonus disc of tunes sung by Betty Buckley, Barbara
Streisand, Jose Carreras, Boy George, Charlotte Church, Madonna, Tom Jones, Petula Clark, even Elvis! A must for lovers of theatre---and good music.

A Must Have for Sir Andrew fans.......2002-05-21

This five-CD collection of Andrew Lloyd Webber's career is fantastic. It leaves virtually no stone unturned. I have no doubt that diehard Webber fans will love this, especially for the 5th disc entitled "From the Vaults." This disc alone is worth the price as it contains tunes never before heard by the typical fan. Who knew Elvis did a Lloyd Webber tune?!? I didn't! Also the tune "Benedictine" which the composer wrote for his most recent marriage is not only pretty, but it has the same medley as "The Lady's Paying" from "Sunset Blvd." which I found highly enjoyable. Another great track is the composer himself singing a cut song from "Cats" entitled "Pollicle Dogs and Jellicle Cats" which has the same tune as "Jellicle Songs for Jellicle Cats," but to hear Sir Andrew sing is a blast...he sounds a lot like Al "Year of the Cat" Stewart.
The cuts from the musicals are great but are likely owned by ALW fans as they are on the original cast albums. And I'm glad that there were tunes included from the composers most recent efforts which have yet to make it beyond London (Whistle Down the Wind, Beautiful Game).
My only complaint is the inclusion of way too many tracks by Sarah Brightman. She must've received a great divorce settlement that included having tunes on any ALW collection until the end of time!! Her interpretations of some of the tunes were limp and uninspired. I would've much rather heard casts from around the world rather than yet another song by this disdainful soprano! How about Colm Wilkinson's version of "Music of the Night" from the original Canadian cast of "Phantom"? Or Michael Crawford's version of "Unexpected Song"? What? No Betty Buckley from "Sunset Blvd."? And of course there are songs you KNOW are going to be on the collection before you even listen to it as they have been on EVERY ALW collection for the past decade or so.
A great collection but too much Sarah Brightman!

Average customer rating:

"Not a Pefect man"
What A Beautiful CD
ONE OF THE MOST OVERLOOKED CD'S OF THE 90'S
almost, but not quite as good as Changes
A must-have for everyone who thought Marvin's style was gone

Not a Perfect Man
Christopher Williams
Manufacturer: Warner Bros / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | R&B | Styles | Music

General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Changes
Real Men Do
Keep It Comin'
Alyson Williams
Make Time for Love

ASIN: B000002L29
Release Date: 1995-02-28

Tracks:

If You Say
Learning To Love Again
Dance 4 Me
R U Ready
Oh Girl
Lonely
Solidarity
Never Stop
Not A Perfect Man
Down On My Knees
We Don't Know How To Say Goodbye

Customer Reviews:

"Not a Pefect man".......2006-02-18

I'm finding it very hard to fathom how on earth this brilliant album slipped under my radar.

In my honest opinion, the album title "Not a Pefect man" is the shinning star on this sublime album.

"I was a lonely man, on a long & winding road & money was tight. I was struggling to survive, but then you came my way like an angel here on earth & you believed in me & helped me change my life...but i'm not the perfect man & i'm glad you understand, I wanna be your heart & soul provider...that with my love, I'll protect you like a soldier."

The lyrics speaks for itself, Christopher Williams (the co-writer of the song), provides unfettered emotion, he is so personal that tears almost fill your eyes, & rightfully so because we're not perfect men.

Overall verdict Strong buy...

What A Beautiful CD.......2002-08-21

This CD is definately for romantics and the laid-back crowd. The first songs are seductive with female voices in the background. But then CW hits us with a positive note on "Solidarity"-- A great twist to "What's Going On." This CD is just so pleasant to listen to. I would give it 4 and a half stars. And although "Changes (1992)" in my opinion had a bit more soul and old-school jam quality (with songs like "Dreamin' and "Everything U Do")-- on "Not a Perfect Man" CW fans will not be disappointed. I definately wasn't. This is real R&B. And although CW isn't gonna get as much airplay as the Ushers or the Ginuwine's-- He's unique in the R&B scene.

ONE OF THE MOST OVERLOOKED CD'S OF THE 90'S.......2001-08-20

This CD I believe will be liked by people who loved the soul sounds of the 60's and 70's.Christopher Williams has a great voice and I think he is the type of artist who even at this stage could still have a long and succesful career.For mine the best songs on this album are the title track,"lonely",the fantastic "solidarity","down on my knees" and "if you say".Apparently Christopher Is releasing a new album today which is great because after his last two album releases I will be buying this one whether I hear any of the songs on it beforehand or not

almost, but not quite as good as Changes.......1999-07-21

At first I thought that this would be average. CW has done it again. I preferred Changes to this CD but only by a narrow margin. The songs on this one will make you want to share special moments with your one true love.

A must-have for everyone who thought Marvin's style was gone.......1998-10-21

This album is by far one of the best works put together in recent years. CW, with the help of Brian McKnight among others, has put together an album that has all of the emotions on the spectrum in it...From pure joy on Learning to Love Again to pure desire on Dance 4 Me...this album is the soundtrack for seduction. Also check out the Marvin-inspired "Solidarity"

The It Girl (2001 Original Off-Broadway Cast)

Average customer rating:

Can't Get Enough of "It"
This musical has IT!
Terrific!
This show is "How Do You Say...?" (Ah, yes) AMAZINGLY GREAT!
Wonderful show with great music and lyrics

The It Girl (2001 Original Off-Broadway Cast)
Paul McKibbins , BT McNicholl , Jean Louisa Kelly , and Jessica Boevers
Manufacturer: Jay Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music

General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music

Broadway & Vocalists | Indie Music | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Roadside (2001 Off-Broadway Cast)
Curtains (2007 Original Broadway Cast)
See What I Wanna See (2005 Original Off-Broadway Cast)
I Love You Because (2006 Original Off-Broadway Cast)
The Drowsy Chaperone (2006 Original Broadway Cast)

ASIN: B00006HIAC
Release Date: 2002-10-01

Tracks:

Black and White World
Why Not?
Stand Straight and Tall
It
Mama's Arms
What to Wear?
It Reprise
A Perfect Plan
Coney Island
Act One Finale
Entr'acte
Woman and Waif
Stay with Me / Left Hand Arrangement
Step into Their Shoes
Out at Sea
How Do You Say....?
Step into Their Shoes Reprise
You're the Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me
Act Two Finale

Amazon.com

If you think that musicals are only outsize, outlandish spectacles hatched on Broadway, The It Girl deftly shows that there are other options. This small show was created in 2001 at the York Theater--located in a church's basement, it's as close as you get to a barn in New York City. Loosely based on the 1927 Clara Bow vehicle It, the show gleefully runs through all the 1920s classic situations and characters: chases, flappers, mistaken identities, a boat cruise, a department-store heir, and fake French accents—it's all there. You can almost hear the ghost of P.G. Wodehouse, librettist for the Gershwins' Jazz Age classics, cheering. The It Girl breezes through thanks to its cast's game can-do energy and the strength of Paul McKibbins and B.T. McNicholl's perky tunes, which deploy nice melodic resources and make the most of a six-piece band. There's enough knowing pastiche here to keep the saccharine at bay, but the creative team also shows genuine resource and love for musicals as a genre. --Elisabeth Vincentelli

Customer Reviews:

Can't Get Enough of "It".......2006-02-11

I took my daughter to see a production of this at a theatre in Hopewell where I sometime perform. We really enjoyed the show, and my daughter asked me to buy her a copy if the CD. I can't stop listening to this show. Great score...great orchestrations and great performances. I'm going to buy myself a copy too.

This musical has IT!.......2005-04-14

Maybe I'm biased, because I'm friends with the composer... but I was not when I first saw this musical, and I fell in love with it. A truly toe-tapping score, and adorably witty lyrics. It's a charming gem of a show, and I recommend it to any music lover.

The characters are fun, the story is marvelously scandalous (in a family oriented way), and the performances are top-drawer!

Terrific!.......2003-05-18

Like another reviewer, was lucky enough to see this show at the York Theatre in Manhattan. A wonderful musical score and clever lyrics made this show an absolute delight. A must-have CD.

This show is "How Do You Say...?" (Ah, yes) AMAZINGLY GREAT!.......2003-03-17

This show has a STELLAR cast! The cast is relatively small, only consisting of three men and four women. The music is original and REALLY clever (and based in the 1920s...GREAT TIME)! I listen to this cast album MORE than any other (and I have A LOT of cast albums)! Some of the MOST appealing tracks are "A Perfect Plan," "Coney Island" and "Step Into Their Shoes"! This would be A GREAT show for small theatres or small companies of actors! You'll be glad you bought this cast album after you take the time to listen to it all the way through at least once. You'll find a few songs you like and listen to those OVER and OVER. Two weeks later you'll find a few more songs you like and do the same! ... This is an A+ show!

Wonderful show with great music and lyrics.......2002-10-05

My family loved this show. Our eight year old son kept singing the songs and humming the tunes. He even wanted to listen to it at bedtime. Very catchy lyrics with tunes that keep your feet tapping. The show is full of songs that continually creep into your mind during the day. I often found myself humming a tune or two over and over. Highly recommend.

The Complete Songs of Charles Ives, Vol. 1

Average customer rating:

The Complete Songs of Charles Ives, Vol. 1

Manufacturer: Albany Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Modern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

The Complete Songs of Charles Ives, Vol. 2
The Complete Songs of Charles Ives, Vol. 3
The Complete Songs, Vol. 4
Susan Graham - Songs of Ned Rorem
Charles Ives: Three Quarter-Tone Pieces; Five Take-offs; Hallowe'en; Sunrise

ASIN: B0000049MK
Release Date: 1995-04-16

Tracks:

Slow March
There Is A Certain Garden
In Autumn
Friendship
A Song For Anything
Canon
Rock Of Ages
Ballad From Rosamund
At Parting
Circus Band
When Stars Are In The Quiet Skies (Country Celestial)
Mirage
An Old Flame
Qu'il m'irait bien
Chanson de Florian
My Native Land
World's Wanderers
Abide With Me
Christmas Carol
Scotch Lullaby
Through Night And Day
A Perfect Day
A Night Song
In The Alley
My Lou Jennine
William Will
From 'Amphion'
Nature's Way
Far From My Heavenly Home
Ein Ton
Marie
Song
Memories
Waltz
Songs My Mother Taught Me
Son Of A Gambolier

Average customer rating:

Track List

101 Dalmatians (Original Soundtrack)
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Disney
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

Disney Records | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

101 Dalmatians: An Original Walt Disney Records Soundtrack (1996 Version)
Jungle Book
101 Dalmatians (Limited Issue)
The Aristocats
Walt Disney's Lady And The Tramp: Classic Soundtrack Series

ASIN: B00006EXG0
Release Date: 2002-08-13

Amazon.com

Given the two belated live-action sequels and numerous other TV and video spinoffs spawned by Disney's charming 1961 animated original, the Dalmatian count is more like 1,001 by now. This reissued soundtrack (admirably restored in the late '90s by producer Randy Thornton) showcases the original orchestral film cues of George Bruns to good effect. While the composer's bright, lively work was largely fragmentary (originally written as punctuation for the film's turns of action and comedy), its components have been skillfully sequenced and gently edited here for a more cohesive listening experience. The film's most memorable musical moments remain Mel Levin's delightful trio of songs, "Kanine Krunchies," "Dalmatian Plantation," and, of course, the classic villainess romp "Cruella DeVil." Bonus cuts include both a bluesy piano rendition and Levin's decidedly goofy piano/vocal demo of the latter tune. A great primer to Disney's animation underscore philosophy, seasoned with one of the studio's most memorable songs. --Jerry McCulley

Customer Reviews:

Track List.......2007-02-14

Track Listing
1. Overture
2. Beautiful Spring Day, A
3. What's All The Hurry / A Perfect Situation / Stir Things Up
4. Cruella De Vil
5. Don't Worry, Perdy / The Puppies Are Here / Lucky / How Marvelous / Not One / A Bloomin' Hero
6. Ol' Thunder Always Wins
7. Kanine Krunchies
8. Bedtime / An Evening Constitutional / A Job To Do / They're Gone!
9. Dognapped! / Anita Darling / What'll We Do?
10. All Dog Alert
11. Sergeant Tibs' Recon / Cat Casserole
12. Can You Leave Tonight? / Arduous Trek / Any News, Colonel? / I Want The Job Done
13. Pulling A Snitch / Big Hullabaloo / Battling The Baduns
14. My Darlings / 99 / Better Be Off / Fire One / All Clear
15. Through The Snow / Shelter
16. I'm Hungry / Get Some Rest / Back On The Road / Spotted!
17. Dinsford / Cruella / A Roll In The Soot / To The Van / It Can't Be / Crazed / You Fools!
18. Puppies Everywhere
19. Dalmatian Plantation / Finale
20. Cruella De Vil - (Nonsense Version Demo)

Average customer rating:

Great compilation album

Best Classical Album of the Millennium

Manufacturer: EMI Int'l
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Quartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Modern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

English | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

French | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Oratorios | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Anthems | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Cantatas | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Choruses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Psalms | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Requiems | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Marches | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music

General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

Classical | Imports | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Best of the Millennium: Top 40 Classical Hits
The Most Relaxing Classical Album in the World...Ever!
Rapture: Opera's Most Heavenly Moments

ASIN: B00002MFD1
Release Date: 1999-10-27

Tracks:

Canon In D
Four Seasons (Concerto No
Adagio In G Minor
Symphony No 6 In F Pastor
Clarinet Concerto In A K6
Cello Concerto In E Minor
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Pa
Concierto De Aranjuez (Ii
Swan Lake (Scene Act Ii N
Symphony No 9 From The Ne
Nimrod From The Enigma Va
Piano Sonata No 14 In C
Piano Concerto No 2 In C
Adagio For Strings Op 11a
Piano Concerto No 21 In C
Dance Of The Reed Flutes
Violin Concerto In E Mino
Intermezzo From Cavalleri
Gloria In Excelsis Deo Fr
Zadok The Pirest
Jesus Bleibet Meine Freud
Lacrimosa From Requiem In
Ave Maria
Miserere Mei Deus
In Paradisum From Requiem
Viens Mallika (Flower Due
Belle Nuit O Nuit D'amoru
Pavane
O Mio Babbino Caro From G
Un Bel Di Vedremo From Ma
Va Pensiero (Chorus Of He
Au Fond Du Temple Saint
Vedi Le Fosche Notturne S
Nessun Dorma From Turando
O Fortuna From Carmina Bu
Dies Irae From Messa De R
Hallelujah Chorus From Me
Sunrise From Also Sprach
Jupiter The Bringer Of Jo
Toccata In D Minor
Four Seasons Concerto No
Symphony No 40 In G Minor
Symphony No 5 In C Minor
Montagues & Capulets
Piano Concerto In A Minor
Bolero (Conclusion)
Fanfare For The Common Ma
Ride Of The Valkyries Fro
Piano Concerto No 1 In B
Brandenburg Concerto No 2
Piano Concerto No 3 En D
1812 Overture (Conclusion
Ode To Joy From Symphonyn
Carmen (Prelude To Act 1)
Piano Concerto No 5 In E
For Unto Us A Child Is Bo
Pomp & Circumstance March

Customer Reviews:

Great compilation album.......2005-03-16

The set includes 3 CDs - "Relaxing", "Vocals", and "Epic". The recordings are wonderful versions performed by excellent orchestras/singers. I listen to it on my Paradigm speakers and close my eyes and can feel encompassed by the music. The recordings do not have the flaws (hiss, pops, scratches) in the sound that many 'cheap' classical CDs have. For 3 CDs and the quality of the recordings, I found this album a good choice!

Other People's Lives Are Not as Perfect as They Seem

Average customer rating:

Other People's Lives Are Not as Perfect as They Seem
Cord
Manufacturer: Universal/Island
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Pocket Symphony
We Were Dead Before the Ship Even Sank

ASIN: B000HKDBH2
Release Date: 2006-10-09

Tracks:

Go Either Way Edit
Sea Of Trouble
Eyes
Winter
Give Me Today
Already Lost
Best Days Of Our Lives
Stay With Me Now
Why I Want It
Greater Part

Album Description

2006 debut album by this Britpop outfit influenced by many, but still uniquely themselves.. 10 melodically-enhanced tracks including the singles 'Sea Of Trouble' and 'Winter'. Island.

Average customer rating:

Dull and boring

Love Divine: Wesleyan Music

Manufacturer: Guild
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Hymns | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
ASIN: B00008KCMW
Release Date: 2005-01-17

Customer Reviews:

Dull and boring.......2007-01-01

I bpught this cd for the wondeful sonf, A Love Divine, which i heard sung in a local catholic church by a lone female voice + piano. Beautiful in words and music. She captured the essence of the song. So i thought I'd like to have this wonderful spiritual on cd at home.
However this version is slightly different tempo than the one I heard at mass, but it goes further. Here the chorus director has so mellowed and slowed the song, to where it just oozes and cralws. This lifelss and boring version is so far from the way the young lady and her accompaning piano player has "divined" this song. Its spiritless chorus like this one that can surely keep more folks away from the churches that as a means to draw the souls in.
there's no other way to say it.

Highlights From Most Men Are (1995 Studio Cast)

Average customer rating:

GREAT CD!
WOW! POWERFUL SONGS--Made me cry!
COOL MUSICAL!
Imaginative and Unique Little Musical

Highlights From Most Men Are (1995 Studio Cast)

Manufacturer: Original Cast Record
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Musical Theater | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music

Contemporary | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Broadway & Vocalists | Indie Music | Stores | Music

Traditional & Vocal Pop | Pop | Indie Music | Stores | Music
ASIN: B000004CQU
Release Date: 1995-03-26

Tracks:

You Won't Die Alone
Daddy's Playboy Magazines
What If
Something Bound To Begin
The Perfect Place On Christopher Street
We Could Rent A Movie
Most Men Are
Better Not To Know
Urban Legend
My Body

Customer Reviews:

GREAT CD!.......2000-03-15

What more can I say? It made me laugh and cry! A really emotional, beautiful score.

WOW! POWERFUL SONGS--Made me cry!.......2000-01-19

This musical is beautifully written. For a piece about AIDS it is suprisingly humorous--the song "DADDY'S PLAYBOY MAGAZINES" proves that! But other songs like "What If" and "You won't Die Alone" really can hit close to home. Very good stuff here!

COOL MUSICAL!.......1999-12-28

I got this CD because the title sounded cool! The music is really great. I wasn;t crazy about all of the singers, but the leads were great. And I really liked the music and lyrics. Song called "something bound to begin" has a very clever premise about gay men meeting and the song "you won't die alone" was very moving. I wish there were more songs, only 10 but they were all good. I've never heard of the writer, but he seems pretty talented. I'm getting his other cds next.

Imaginative and Unique Little Musical.......1999-12-28

I saw a production of MOST MEN ARE in New York in 1999 and I loved it! I had read that the CD was released in a great OUT magazine review but never could find it until AMAZON! The songs are incredibly original...My favorites are "DADDY'S PLAYBOY MAGAZINES" and "WE COULD RENT A MOVIE" The singers sound great and the orchestrations are really fun sounding. It really captrues the humorous and dramatic spirit of this great play. I still cry when I hear the last few songs. If you are looking for a rare, ecclectic off-b'way musical, this is the one to get!

Music:

Music

Music

1. Take My Hand
2. I Believe in God
3. Faith
4. Not Perfect
5. Life Is Worth Fighting For
6. Strayed
7. Common People
8. Where Is God?
9. Shades of Gray
10. Matter of Time
11. And Can It Be