Porgy and Bess - New Broadway Cast Recording Arrived!

*jealous*

I'm seething with jealousy.

Anyone know when it's set to hit iTunes?

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I got mine too!

The vocals do sound amazing. I have only listened to the first disc so far, but my main reaction is that the orchestra sounds AMAZING..... When I have seen it (twice now) in the theater, I was mixed about the orchestration (as many people are), but I had a hunch it was the sound design. Now I KNOW it is the sound design. I think this orchestra sounds luscious on this recording. I know they added some strings for the album, but it is intelligently orchestrated, and I now have a new appreciation for what Brohn and Jahnke did.

Also love the piano solo in the overture... Both times I've seen it, the associate conductor was conducting, so I guess there were subs on the piano for him, and they sounded tentative. It was awesome to hear it rock out.

Matt2 - I am from a classical music background, and happen to love musicals... I am one of the few who loves the opera, and loves the current broadway production. I would argue that the Simon Rattle recording that you have is the definitive Porgy and Bess (sorry, Houston Grand Opera).... but - having listened to this new album, if you're a fan of the score, I think you will enjoy it. Audra is just spectacular, as is Phillip Boykin. It is the most well-acted Crown I've ever heard (even on the recording). Lewis is fine.... not a reason to buy the CD. But - I do recommend it. As I said in prior post, I was hesitant about the orchestration in the theater (the original orchestration is flawless), but having listened to the album, it is clear that in the theater it is a sound design issue. While the orchestration is different, it is incredibly smart and unique in its interpretation. (And as much as people complained about the accordion in Boston, I think it is a beautiful addition in this rendition).... Anyway... Let me know how you decide to go about it!

Yes. Of course.
Well, if you're that familiar with the opera score... just do NOT expect it to be the same. They intended to make a musical of it, and they did just that. So... the naysayers of this production will say it ripped it apart. As someone who loves both, I disagree, but at the same time I completely understand that point of view.
Mostly for me, this production is about the performances. It puts the acting on par with the singing, which operas just don't generally do by nature (except in very rare occasions). I think the score is a masterpiece, and much of the really interesting underscoring has been kept on this recording (under the "Crap Game" for instance). If you're openminded about the changes, I think you'll find it an interesting study in the differences... For me, I have a great admiration for the team's adaptation even if I don't agree with everything.