It's a testament to the clout of artist Jerry Herman (Mame, Hello, Dolly!, La Cage aux Folles) that he can get Faith Prince, Christine Baranski, Michael Feinstein, Debbie Gravitte, Karen Morrow, and Steve Lawrence to sing... more » on a "concept album" of his unproduced show Miss Spectacular. Not only that, but the singers are backed by a huge orchestra instead of the usual small ensemble that so often makes this type of recording sound cheap. But while Larry Blank's orchestrations are luscious as can be, the synopsis is inane even by musical-theater standards (Midwest girl goes to Vegas looking for fame and fortune), and the songs feel as if they could have been written in 1952, 1988, or anytime in between. Whether you'll call them dated or timeless depends on your mood. The "Finale" even feels like a Simpsons parody of a Broadway show's take on Vegas. The recording's saving grace is that the pros in the cast could sing the yellow pages and still make you want to buy an orchestra seat. --Elisabeth Vincentelli« less
It's a testament to the clout of artist Jerry Herman (Mame, Hello, Dolly!, La Cage aux Folles) that he can get Faith Prince, Christine Baranski, Michael Feinstein, Debbie Gravitte, Karen Morrow, and Steve Lawrence to sing on a "concept album" of his unproduced show Miss Spectacular. Not only that, but the singers are backed by a huge orchestra instead of the usual small ensemble that so often makes this type of recording sound cheap. But while Larry Blank's orchestrations are luscious as can be, the synopsis is inane even by musical-theater standards (Midwest girl goes to Vegas looking for fame and fortune), and the songs feel as if they could have been written in 1952, 1988, or anytime in between. Whether you'll call them dated or timeless depends on your mood. The "Finale" even feels like a Simpsons parody of a Broadway show's take on Vegas. The recording's saving grace is that the pros in the cast could sing the yellow pages and still make you want to buy an orchestra seat. --Elisabeth Vincentelli
CD Reviews
NOT written for Broadway
Jim Jr | Buffalo, NY United States | 06/27/2002
(4 out of 5 stars)
"There is a very mistaken idea in all the reviews for this concept album that it is for a potential BROADWAY show. It was written for a Las Vagas casino show. It was to be a huge spectacular (as is suggested by the title) musical with gigantic production numbers. However, the hotel that comissioned it was sold and the new owners decided not to produce the show. This fact will explain the types of songs, the manner in which they were written and the fact that they are not the subtle really lovely songs Jerry Herman is capable of. If a person is writing a song for a show that will overwhelm the audience with breathtaking sets, costumes and effects, that person will not write something subtle and intimate.Note that in the write up of the show, it is stated that a number of the songs are inspired by the sound of gambling winnings and then go into a production number. Each song is meant to create an instant IMPACT on an audience that might have seen a show with the sinking of the Titanic or an erupting volcano the night before.Jerry Herman is incapable of writing a bad song. Some may not be as wonderful as others, but none are bad, even his Broadway failures have terrific scores. Mr. Herman has always known exactly how to write for a spacific situation. Here he wrote exactly the type of show that the producers wanted for "Miss Spectacular". Instead of finding fault and complaining about it we should be thankful that the score is available and not consigened to some file cabinet where it would never be heard."
Good Jerry Herman is better than most!!
Ruthie Tzipora | 06/12/2002
(4 out of 5 stars)
"This album has the types of songs Jerry Herman lovers know and love; the slow ballads, the peppy upbeat numbers, much like La Cage Aux Folles. Too bad he doesn't write for Broadway anymore. He'd be wining the Tony over Urinetown in a heart beat."
"No Other Music takes my breath away" like Jerry Herman's
robertak | Chicago, IL United States | 06/20/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"As the composer and lyricist for the Broadway musicals "Hello, Dolly!", "Mame" and "La Cage Aux Folles" and others, Jerry Herman is known for his optimistic, memorable, hummable songs that become instantly familiar and part of Broadway culture. His new work, "Miss Spectacular" follows in that tradition. In this concept album, Mr. Herman has assembled an oustanding cast of Broadway and musical stars (Debbie Gravitte, Steve Lawrence, Karen Morrow, Faith Prince and others)to perform his new score for a production that has not yet been produced. The recording is excellent - a blend of nostalgia ("Ziegfeld Girl"), hysterical lyrics "Where Is My Prince?" optimism "I Wanna Live Each Night" and warm,romantic songs "No Other Music" and "My Great Dream."Mr. Herman has given those of us who love good music a reason to smile again."
I WANT TO LIVE EACH NIGHT LIKE THERE'S NO MORNING!
nlk-ny | New York, USA | 08/18/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Jerry Herman I'm gonna give you a big hug dude. What an album!!What music! What lyrics!
When that orchestra opens up and sends out that strong, powerful overture you just know you are in the hands of a PRO.The music lights up the room and the words that are combined bring a cresendo of joy to your heart.Yes, you are right. We all want to be a "Miss Spectacular" and descend that staircase of life into a world filled with glamour and joy.We sure do need it now! You have given us that opportunity with this recording.I cant stop playing it. Especially the song "I Wanna Live Each Night". And haven't we all asked ourselves "Where In The World Is My Prince".Jerry you really put it all together this time. It came from your heart.This is a show that belongs right on Broadway with all your other great hits. Your idea of sending this album out as a concept album was wonderful- now its with me for my pleasure. (May I suggest this show be brought in with men playing all the roles).It's ready made for this type of performance).Well people I've said my piece.Now it's up to you.You will not be disappointed-Jerry Herman has never let you down. Enjoy the album- and all the fantasy that goes with it. I am sure you will have a smile on your face as you listen.God Bless America!"
No other music but Mr. Herman's!
Ruthie Tzipora | California, USA | 11/18/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Miss Spectacular is absolutely spectacular! Jerry Herman makes a fabulous comeback into the world of musical theater with hilarious songs like "Where in the world is my prince?" to his traditionally beautiful ballads like "No other music". Miss Spectacular wins all around, and leaves you satisfied. Mr. Herman is an absolute genius."
Track Listings (13) - Disc #1