A review of Linda Eder's "By Myself: The Songs of Judy Garland"

[sidneybruhl]

Posted: 10/5/05 at 11:59pm

I've been a fan of Eder for at least ten years and look forward to each of her new recordings. Since I'm a huge Garland fan, I've especially looked forward to her newest recording. I'm happy to report that Eder does not disappoint. Honestly, I think this is the best thing Eder has ever recorded. Free of the Wildhorn clap-trap (he ducks and covers), Eder has an entire set of songs worthy of her beautiful instrument! Much of the credit goes to the outstanding arrangements which remind the listener of Garland's. Garland's own arranger, conductor, and friend Mort Lindsey is credited with the arrangement of the little heard Garland song "I'd Like to Hate Myself in the Morning." Eder seems to be having fun with this tune and puts it over in grand style. Another highlight is Eder's take on Garland's famous "Almost Like Being in Love/This Can't Be Love" medley. Even Eder's tribute song to Garland, "The Rainbow's End," composed by Jack Murphy fits nicely into the set. Eder concludes with a medley of "I'm Always Chasing Rainbows/Over the Rainbow" that is a fitting conclusion to an outstanding recording. Though many artists may include a Garland song on their CD (Audra McDonald comes to mind), none have been brave enough to attempt an entire recording in tribute to Garland. Eder's risk pays off. Fans of Eder and Garland will not be disappointed.

[the one]

Posted: 10/6/05 at 12:18am

It's a masterpiece unlike any Eder has done before. I encourage all to get a hold of this and have a listen. Finally it shows what this tremendous singer really can do (without Wildhorn).

[Peter]

Posted: 10/6/05 at 4:29am

I agree with both of you that this is Eder's best, and a pretty spectacular accomplishment, but Im not altogether optimistic that many of the hardcore Garland fanatics will be won over. Garland was a one of a kind legend and it's understandable that these loyal fans would rather listen to her than Linda. No doubt this is why it took someone so long to do a tribute to Judy. However, I do believe that if these people approach this with an open mind, they will find much to like here. The results IMO, are stellar both vocally and in her interpretation of these classics, the orchestrations lush and appropriate. Linda does bring a great deal of passion to this recording and taps into much of Judy's emotion, power and vulnerability, without ever mimicing her. Her Carnegie Hall concert is going to be fabulous.