Search - Gay Men's Chorus of Los Angeles :: Simply Sondheim

Cult Classic

02/12/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Those remarkable men within the Gay Men's Chorus of Los Angeles have done it again! After delivering that powerful classical CD With A Mighty Voice, they pivot-turn and deliver this show-stopping performance of music composed for Broadway by Stephen Sondheim. The diversity of these singers is magnificently realized in an event that could possibly only succeed in L.A. Part of the fun of Simply Sondheim is imagining yourself among that theater-savvy audience 3000 miles away from Broadway as it devours every nuance of these modern show-biz classics arranged for 150 male voices. It's apparent right from the start that Stephen Sondheim's gay wit is ideal material for these talented men, whose memorable performances are captured live on this terrific recording.And what a sound! Fans who think they know Sondheim's Sweeney Todd for example, will revel upon hearing the 15-minute Sweeney Todd Rhapsody where 150 voices bring new depth to some of Sondheim's greatest work. Familiar tunes like Send In The Clowns sound fresh when delivered by these gents, thanks to their unique and ingenious arrangements. Equally great are the Sondheim rarities, like Goodbye For Now (composed for the film Reds,) or Pleasant Little Kingdom (cut from Follies, performed here by guest star Joanna Gleason), or Loving You from Passion, all charged with the humor, bite, and aching tenderness that keeps the live audience in a whirl. Sure wish I could have been in that audience! Owning this CD is the next best thing. To Sondheim fans, this is a cult classic; to theater fans, this CD makes a terrific gift. Perhaps the real gift is knowing that the Gay Men's Chorus thrives so well in Los Angeles. What can they possibly record next? Can't wait!"