Upon first listen, this felt like my first exposure to Escape to Margaritaville — and not in a bad way.
Like that of Jimmy Buffett, I wasn't overly familiar with Diamond's catalogue before the Broadway version of "Cracklin' Rosie" was released (I had only heard "Sweet Caroline" and a few others), but the guy's a legend for a reason, he really does have an incredible songbook and I think it's reflected in this musical. Swenson does him justice and so much more, pulling a Paul Nolan and strumming his guitar while crooning his way through most of this score.
But the real gem of this album is what the Playbill for the show calls "The Beautiful Noise": the ensemble. They sound glorious as they navigate their way through Sonny Paladino's excellent arrangements with ease, and I find it very interesting that they are referred to in the show by their real names (as heard in the Act One demo medley): Alex, MiMi, Jordan, etc. Sort of like [title of show].
With first preview later tonight, I'd like to ask (and this might be a stupid question), is it common for cast albums to be released / recorded during previews? Curious because & Juliet used the same strategy as this show, to release the OBCR the day of their first performance in NY.
Looking forward to hearing first preview thoughts from the Broadhurst this evening.
“I am furious, but I am sailing.”
Updated On: 11/2/22 at 11:46 AM
