Search - Stephen Schwartz, Stephen Nathan, Robin Lamont :: Godspell

Kara L. from CARNEGIE, PA
Reviewed on 3/13/2007...

Great musical.

Slightly Outdated Sound, But Still Great

Mark Baker | Santa Clarita, CA United States | 12/14/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Just in case you don't know when this musical was written or this recording made, all you have to do is listen to it. It practically screams 70's folk music. Heck, except for the shofar on the opening number and a recorder a little later on, the only instruments are keyboard, guitars, and drums. But that's part of the charm.The musical is based mostly accurately on the Gospel of Matthew from the Bible. There are only 10 in the cast, so it's not a full blown production. Instead, it's an interpretation with a modern (or at least 70's) setting.There are lots of good songs here. Probably the most famous is "Day by Day." Personal favorites are Jesus' first appearance with "Save the People" and "We Beseech Thee." I also love the slow ballads "By My Side" and "On the Willows," the second being a lament taken from Jeremiah. Frankly, I've found I can no longer read the Sermon on the Mount without thinking of "Light of the World" or Jesus attacking the Pharisees without "Alas for You" running through my head.Those looking for "Beautiful City" will want to look elsewhere since it was added for the movie, and this American original cast recording predates it by several years.This musical is different and takes a few listens to appreciate. But I've loved it since I first saw it a number of years ago, and I pull out the soundtrack on a regular basis. It has an easily singable score, which just adds to the fun.If you want a musical to encourage and inspire you, this lesser known gem is a wonderful place to start. And the original cast recording, while sounding a bit outdated, is still a wonderful way to experience it today."

Musical Storytelling Excellence

AJ | AZ | 02/12/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Even after having this cd for about 8 years, having done the show and many others in the past 10 years or so, I still come back to this cd to sing through the whole thing. I love every song. I can actually sit and listen to this cd, knowing I won't have to forward some songs. The only thing I absolutely hate about this cd is that man trying to sing "All Good Gifts". Where, in the name of all that is good in musical theatre, did they find this man? Who did he know to get this job? "By My Side" is just beautiful. I read that it was the only song that Stephen Schwartz didn't write. It was written by some of the cast of the original production of Godspell before he came in to re-work the music. They decided to keep it in. Good move. Think about the idea behind the song...telling someone that you will always be there...by their side. This was the first musical that I ever fell in love with and it will always be the first point that I realized that this was what I wanted to do with my life. Thanks, Stephen Schwartz, for making "God" fun."