Disappointing recording of a great show
Stephen Peithman | Davis, CA USA | 09/16/2007
(3 out of 5 stars)
""Man With a Load of Mischief" (set in early 19th century England) is one of the great off-Broadway musicals. Unfortunately, the original cast recording has not been reissued on CD, for the currently-available CD--while containing more music than the original--is not as well cast (the accent of the landlord's wife comes and goes, and the Lady and Manservant simply don't have the verve of the original cast members). To this ear, at least, the use of obviously synthesized instrumentation for some parts is most distracting. If you've never heard the out-of-print original, this one may well suffice. The score certainly deserves to be heard. And if you do have the original, this one contains music not on the earlier recording, and so is worth the purchase. I just wish I could recommend the recording wholeheartedly."