Search - Bill Russell, Janet Hood, Kim Criswell :: Elegies for Angels, Punks and Raging Queens (Original London Cast)

Deeply moving...and a Celebration

joto25 | 03/20/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This recording by the Original London Cast of 1993 has been largely overlooked. It is quietly moving and stands the passage of time. Of course the flamboyant Miss Kim Criswell leads the cast with her opening of Angels, Punks and Raging Queens. Her performance is exquisite and emotional, never coming across as over-the-top.Miquel Brown and Simon Green and Kwanme Kwei-Armah take the story further with their quiet,powerful deliveries...My Brother Lived In San Francisco told by Miss Criswell never fail to move me to tears.Although the Live Concert Recording from USA is full of gusto and good-meaning, it comes across as a little forward. But as a live tribute concert, it is what all the artistes have put in with their heart and soul.I highly recommend the London Cast Recording which has the composer Miss Janet Hood on piano. The cast is solid, although English.Other stuff by Miss Criswell includes the wonderful "Wonderful Town" by Bernstein"

Nearly as good

lord_oberon | Waltham, MA, USA | 04/16/2002

(4 out of 5 stars)

"The music of Ellegies is some of the most moving I have ever heard. The premise of the musical was that the monologues were from the perspective of those who had died from AIDS and the songs were those who were still alive (only the songs are featured on the album). The only problem with this album is that it isn't as good as the newer version (which I also have). The newer version has the monologues and stars of the stage that are more famous. However, the orginal cast album does stand on its own and is the perfect addition to any collection.In addition, if you go to First Knight, the label's, webpage you can get more information."