 |
Free Music Notes for Jesus Christ Superstar (The New Stage Production Soundtrack)Free Music Review: THE version to buy Hit: 5 Stars
I find it interesting how passionate these reviews are -- really a tribute to rice and webber, that they have moved us so much, that we love so dearly the version we have come to know. I am a little disturbed by some meanness that creeps into some of these comments. Please do not attack performers, comment on performances instead. That said, I have heard several versions of this play/movie, and I like this one best, because of Glenn Carter's passionate, tender, and fiery performance. It is not overacting. In Gethsemane, Jesus was terrified, angry, and ultimately, resolved. All of these are wonderfully conveyed by Carter, with many small nuances that bring vividly to life a man who should NOT be portrayed as distant and mysterious. Jesus's defining personality trait, which so many found offensive, was directness. So it is fitting that he would exhibit strong emotions, especially when he knows he is careening headlong toward a horrible end. Steve Basalmo, in the 1996 version of this play, is just a little too stylish and calm for Gethsemane. Anguish is called for, and Carter delivers. He has a beautiful, unaffected vocal style and hits every note perfectly. The rest of the cast is also great. Judas is quirky and dark, aptly tormented. Annas and Pilate have voices you will remember forever, and Mary M. in this version is truly the quiet, calming presence she ought to be. All the updatings for this version are exactly right for our new millenium, and will be very appealing to all ages. It's no wonder Andrew Lloyd Webber chose this version to film. It is heavenly.
Free Music Review: A Superstar Soundtrack!! Hit: 5 Stars
Tim Rice and Anderw Lyyoyd Webber's new musical "Jesus Christ Superstar" shines in this soundtrack that has beautiful music which is based on the musical movie. It is a very dark production, but it some ways the music helps enlighten the story in some ways due to its graphic nature. I love all the songs in this musical, and would highly recommend this edition of "Jesus Christ Superstar" because of their wonderful performences. There are several songs that happen to be my all time favorite: "Heaven On Their Minds, "What's the Buzz?/Strange Thing Mystifying," "Everything's Alright," "Hosanna," "Simon Zealoates/Poor Jerusalem," I Don't Know How To Love Him," "The Last Supper," "Gethsemane (I Only Want to Say)," "King Herod's Song," "Could We Start Again," to "Superstar." I could listen to this soundtrack all the time and it would never get old or boring because its hip and now. The lyrics are so memorable that it could have easily been written yesterday. There are some complaints that there have been a song or two not on this edition, but it didn't bother me at all, I still charished it with all my heart. I can't wait until the next Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber's newest musical premiers. I don't understand God's word very much, but I don't understand music, and I think the music in this production is very inspiring and will help me build a better relationshiop with my Lord. I'm very excited and happy about my product and would do buisness with www.amazon.com again.
Free Music Review: I'm utterly obsessed! Hit: 5 Stars
I've seen many criticize this recording of JCS. Many say Jerome Pradon's portrayal of Judas is horrible- his voice is whiny and cracks far too often. By simply listening to the album, I would probably agree with that statement, because it is the truth. However, once you see the movie, it all makes sense. I instantly fell in love with Pradon's Judas.. he sings so passionately that he often screeches, but it's not a bad thing. He gets so into the part, and it's absolutely refreshing. In addition, Tony Vincent is amazing in his small part for Simon Zealotes. His voice is flawless! I'm not the biggest fan of Glenn Carter, however. Although his voice is very pure and nice, his acting in the movie is utterly annoying. He seems so smug, and can't seem to, control himself, for lack of a better word. (watch closely and you'll see what I mean!)
Don't get me wrong, I'm no JCS fanatic and certainly wouldn't consider myself very aquainted with the other versions. All I know is that I absolutley LOVE this version and can't seem to get enough. I definitely recommend "Simon Zealotes/Poor Jerusalem," "Heaven on Their Minds," and "Superstar." Unfortunately, one of my favorites, "Damned for all Time/Blood Money" has been left out! :(
Free Music Review: Updated and relevant Hit: 5 Stars
I know there are lots of people who hate any "new and improved" versions of classics, and this is certainly one people can get very vocal about.
However, the most common version of this rock opera was from the '70's, and it was very edgy for the time. After 25+ years, it had become kind of cheesy and really dated.
This version brought back the edginess Rice and Webber went for in the 1970's, proving that with a slightly different sound, the musical itself is able to stand the test of time and effect new audiences in the same way it effected the first fans almost 30 years ago.
The three leads (Jesus, Judas and Mary Magdalene) are all wonderful, but Jerome Pradon (I probably totally messed that name up, the guy who played Judas) was simply amazing, and you can hear in his voice as well as see in his expression (on the DVD) how torn the character really is.
I absolutely recommend this to any fan of Tim Rice/Andrew Lloyd Webber, the musical itself, or just to anyone who appreciates good music and an imaginative take on Biblical Scripture.
Free Music Review: The BEST since the original, if not better!!!! Hit: 5 Stars
If you haven't seen this version on DVD - quick go find it! It's so good that you end up loving this recording just as much. What makes this recording so good is that these actors capture such intense emotion in their singing that even the original did not. There is no question that Glenn Carter as Jesus blows away Ted Neeley from the 1973 movie and Glenn Carter absolutely performs the best Gethsemane ever sung by any Jesus. Everything's Alright was slowed down for a much more melodic effect - and Tony Vincent as Simon is excellent. There is a fresh feeling to this recording that stays faithful to the original while blowing off some of the 1970s dust. This version is definitely a good choice for anyone of my younger (I'm 25) generation. It's only too bad they couldn't have put out a full version - as noted by others, those songs are missed. In the end there are two essential recordings of Jesus Christ Superstar: the original London concept recording and THIS ONE!
More Free Music Notes: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
|
 |