Finally got around to this after a hectic Tony and Father’s Day weekend - sounds brilliant.
Some of the cast members have described this show as a “joy machine” and that’s precisely what this album is. Lewis’s catalogue is infectious at every corner and has been effectively re-orchestrated for the stage. A pair of a capella moments gave me some In Transit vibes.
The new song he cowrote (with music supervisor Brian Usifer) was “Be Someone” sung early in the show, and although it won’t join the ranks of the best original songs written for jukebox musicals, it’s a solid addition to the Lewis discography.
This cast is LOADED with talent. Corey and McKenzie are both fabulous (and have been given some barn-burning second act solos) and Tamika Lawrence once again sings the bejesus out of her numbers. Solid work from Dossett, Tighe, and an underutilized Zoe Jensen. But we all know the real star of the show can’t be found on this album from what I’ve heard… ;)
Standing out in the ensemble, the always fantastic Tommy Bracco leads a frantic, “Whipped Into Shape”-esque second act opener and I can only imagine Latarro having a field day with it. Bracco will be joining Titaníque soon and I have to think he’ll be great there too.
Prob won’t be able to catch this live before Sunday’s closing, but I’m glad to hear most of us that did had a fun time.
“I am furious, but I am sailing.”
