Search - Barbra Streisand :: Live Concert at the Forum

MY FIRST ALBUM

RALPH PETERS | CLOVIS, CA USA | 04/23/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This was my first Barbra album, purchased November 12, 1973. I was a freshman in high school and extremely unhappy as I had skipped one year of school (which they LOVED to do in the 60's for some reason) and was socially withdrawn as a result of leaving all my friends behind. Then I discovered Barbra and strangely I never felt that alone ever again. Something about the power of that voice and the force of her personality just hit home with me and began a love affair that has continued without letup until this day. Oh, the thrill of those gatefold albums with all the photos and liner notes, and the accompanying poster which adorned my wall for many years. And the singing!!! Oddly, I mistakenly put on Side Two first instead of Side One and so began with "Didn't We" and "My Man", and that voice just melted me on the spot. The power of Barbra is, to me, often undefinable to others; I've come to believe either people get it or they don't, there's not really an in-between. She's not just a "singer" or an "actress", she's an entire way of life--an inspiration, a comfort, an ongoing pleasure to discover year after year. I'm not even ashamed to admit that I often will re-purchase several copies of my favorite Barbra CDs every year just for the thrill of putting in a fresh one, as if it were a new album! Silly maybe, but it's still fun to get a new Barbra CD in the mail, whether you already own it or not!! This album was a perfect intro. "Starting Here, Starting Now" still soars, as does "On A Clear Day", the funny monologue still tickles, and the electric version of "Stoney End" is quite different from the original. Then the miraculously beautiful segue of "Sing" into "Happy Days.." and my favorite version to date of "People" all make for an unforgettable experience. Even if you're not a fan of live albums, buy this. You won't regret it."