Audra Mcdonald - Way Back to Paradise
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Free Music Notes for Way Back to Paradise
Free Music Review: Profoundly moving; exquisitely done
Hit: 5 Stars
I bought "Way Back to Paradise" in 1998, when I was a junior in high school, and it has yet to leave my CD player.That's a testament to the supreme musicality of this CD and of Audra McDonald's oceanic talent. She is, without a doubt, one of the most gifted and transparently honest singers of all time.
"Paradise" grew on me, and I keep finding the subtle power in each perfectly executed song: "Dream Variations," "Daybreak in Alabama" and "Song for a Dark Girl" are splendid interpretations of Langton Hughes' poems; the title song, "Way Back to Paradise" combines McDonald's voice with Dawn Upshaw's; "Come to Jesus," "Mistress of the Senator," "Tom" and "Stars and the Moon" are presented with such character and depth that they each song becomes a musical theater journey; and "Baby Moon" brought so much joy -- and optimism -- to my heart I just had to keep on listening.
This is marvelous debut and a stunning achievement. It can't be missed.
Free Music Review: She is the Stars and the Moon
Hit: 5 Stars
I have never seen Ms. McDonald perform live. I heard about her"Carousel", saw a clip of "Master Class", but whenI heard he first sing that searing lullaby from Ragtime, I knew I was listening to someone special and unique. She is one of the chosen, lucky few blessed with an incredible instrument; one that is treated with respect by using it only as an instrument funnels through it so much truth, love and beauty. When an artist approaches their material with these three things, it is a gift. I am so honored that I have been the recipient of this gift. Audra, please know that I feel when you sing and it changes me. I am giving to myself through your gift and I feel a part of you move through me when you sing. This work is wonderful. I grew up with Theresa McCarthy and it was a pleasure to know that you both are friends and that you sound so well together on "I Follow".
Kudos, kiddo!
Free Music Review: Artistic...Poetic...Beautiful
Hit: 5 Stars
One thing that must be said about this album is that it is not what you expect. No new renditions of "Your Daddy's Son" or Bway standards like "Memory" here. No, this is much better. In a very gutsy move, Audra chooses to sing selectons from new productions and by new composers. I must praise Audra for giving thes talented new comers such a great chance; I'm already going to see "Parade", thanks to her! Also, the songs derived from Langston Hughes's beautiful prose are quite interesting. Audra even gives us a glimpse of her acting talents (for which she has won three Tony's, and more to come, I'm sure) in the number "Mistress of the Senator". True, this recording doesnt have any super-duper, big budget show stoppers, but it seems to almost have more dignity than that. I anxiously await Audra's next performance (hopefully "Marie Christine")and recording.xFree Music Review: When I'm old, I can say I listened as a star was born!
Hit: 5 Stars
Hereing this CD gave me hope for a broadway great and a legendary singer. Her angelic voice gives you no choice but to feel every lyric of the song. Originally spectacular is my way of describing this CD. I am proud to have seen her take her own road with these lyrics. An obvious risk in our day, when so many just want to here the same oldies, but goodies. That risk is a tribute to Audra and her art. I believe this CD is the beginning of a legendary carrier. If that's the road Audra chooses to fallow in years to come. I love a girl with enough in her to strike her own key in show business. After all. Didn't all the "greats? Musically she has opened a door for new thoughts and ideas. I admire her. I look forward to hearing more her music. Audra's voice bring these lyrics to life. As should any profound singer. You ahve no choice but to feel the songs along with her. Keep 'Em coiming Audra!!! <3Free Music Review: In a word...
Hit: 5 Stars
Perfect. That's the only way to describe Audra McDonald's voice. It's also the only way to describe this debut recording, featuring songs by up-and-coming composers of musical theatre. Who else but Audra McDonald would have the courage to record an entire CD of almost entirely unknown songs (be reasonable: musical theatre fans already knew the songs from Hello Again and Songs for a New World)? Who else but Nonesuch would have dared record this? Still, thank God we have the two of them together. This recording is definitely a hit parade of today's hot young composers. No wonder these artists are vying constantly for the attentions of one Miss McDonald. With complete ease, she glides over every note in a song, caressing it with golden vocal cords and acting skill to match. This CD is definitely the face of musical theatre future, in both performance and song. For that, it is a must.