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First major album for Elaine

Peter Durward Harris | Leicester England | 06/07/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Britain's finest theatrical singer-actress (with a similar type of voice to Barbra Streisand) originally became famous as the leading actress in the West End musical, Evita. Her singing career didn't really get established until the release of her 1983 album, Stages, but while I regard that as her best original album, this one (from a year earlier) has much to commend it.



Tim Rice wrote many of the lyrics, even adding an extra verse to If you don't want my love, written by John Prine. John was impressed by Elaine's recording (so am I) but not by Tim messing around with his song, although I like the extra verse. Tim also wrote lyrics for the Paul McCartney instrumental, Hot as sun. I don't know what Paul thought of that. Tim didn't change the old Everly Brothers classic, So sad to watch good love go bad, or the obscure Paul Simon song, How the heart approaches what it years, both of which Elaine sings superbly. Elsewhere, there are many excellent songs, my favorite being Second time.



If you enjoy listening to Elaine sing, you will love this album."

The title says it all - this is the real Elaine Paige!

Peter Durward Harris | 03/14/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Here, a true blend of songs show both the ability and entertainment value of a splendid artiste. Serious songs like "Falling Down To Earth" and "Secrets" show the full dynamics of this wonderful voice, whilst numbers such as "Hot As Sun" provide a lighter outlook and recreate the sense of enjoyment of the studio, and performance. Perhaps some of Elaine's later maturity is lacking, but her voice is undoubtedly fabulous!!!"