Search - Michelle Nicastro :: Reel Imagination: Songs From Family Films

Neither Here Nor There

stellat | 10/11/2000

(2 out of 5 stars)

"This is a beautifully orchestrated CD. However, as a teacher to young children, I am disappointed. The song selection seems intended for children, but the arrangements and performance on most of the tracks are too sophisticated for a young child's ear. My advice for making a children's album: Keep it Simple. That's the reason why performers like Raffi ar so successful with their children's albums."

Real Imagination!

04/15/2001

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Michelle Nicastro's exuberant and expressive voice is perfect for singing children's classic songs. She sings Dr. Seuss's "Dressing Song" in a tart and humorous fashion, Cinderella's "In My Own Corner/Impossible" in a longing and animated manner, and Oz's "Over the Rainbow" in a wistful way. Bruce Kimmer's imaginative orchestrations add to the fun, particularly with the beginning of "Over the Rainbow", with the creative Latin beat of "Pure Imagination," with the animal background in "Talk to the Animals," and last but not least, with the clever arrangement of "TV Family Hour Medley," beginning with "Star Trek" to the final finish of "Addams Family!" Kimmel's ability to combine songs is remarkable, particularly with Roger and Hammerstein's Cinderella medley and Mary Poppin's medley. Michelle's voice also can be alluring on softer classics as "Candle on the Water" and "Chim Chim Cheree" (the BEST ever version). When I buy children's music, I like songs to express the wistfullness and excitement of childhood. This collection does just that, without insulting my intelligence. This is a collection of children's songs that will captivate adults as well as children."

A charming album

stellat | Cedar Rapids, Iowa | 04/04/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Reel Imagination is a delightful album! It contains a varied collection of songs--from classic movies to modern children's hits. I appreciated the quality of the arrangements; they were fresh and exciting. Ms. Nicastro's performances are exciting as well. She sings with a clear and bright sound that is appealing to children as well as adults. She does an excellent job of creating enthusiasm as she sings. She makes you feel like you are a part of the story as you listen along. Children will enjoy this album (if they can get it away from mom and dad!)"