"This album brought Ms. McGovern back into the spotlight and truly established her as one of the most remarkable singers performing today. One of the most refreshing aspects of this album is the unique song selection. I mean, really, do we need yet another interpretation of "Send in the Clowns"? No, probably not. Ms. McGovern instead mines jewels from little known Broadway shows, as well as showcases the work of several popular standards composers. She shows amazing restraint in the use of her formidable vocal range, interested solely in singing the song and not in showing off. The piano arrangements and accompaniment by Mike Renzi are just gorgeous. What a wonderful marriage of song, music and voice!"
An Album you will return to again and again
01/24/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Orignially purchased this as a cassette. After wearing two copies out, I have gone to the CD. This is one recording that I return to time and time again. The songs are wonderful, and Ms. McGoverns voice draws me in everytime. This is one album I would highly recommend to anyone"
Less is more
Bruce Hodges | New York, NY | 04/23/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Maureen McGovern has recorded a number of CD's in the last few years, but none as compelling as this one. Her beautiful, clear voice is, of course, the main attraction, but what really makes this recording distinctive is her collaborator Mike Renzi, whose sensitive arrangements and piano playing always complement and never overwhelm. The program is very well-chosen, including Sondheim's great "I Remember," one of his most radiant early songs. Listen to how McGovern carefully moulds Sondheim's intricate lyrics, and treats his soaring vocal lines with such affection. In "All the Things You Are," she demonstrates her remarkable range by rising to an ethereal plateau in the closing bars. And the poignant "Some Other Time" from Bernstein's "On the Town" appears here as the perfect ending to the program. Throughout this recording, McGovern and Renzi demonstrate that great songs don't need much embellishment; a fantastic voice and an equally superb pianist are plenty. The result has the intimacy of a small night club, coupled with strikingly realistic recording."
Who needs an orchestra?
Rusty Kransky | Greenport, NY United States | 08/03/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This CD is beautifully song, and the piano-only arrangements (by the brilliant Mike Renzi) are sensitive and lovely. "Something I Thought I'd Never Do" and "Some Other Time" are poignant and touching, and I defy anyone to find a better rendition of Sondheim's "I Remember" from the TV musical "Evening Primrose." A real find for any cabaret fan and a MUST for fans of intelligent singing."