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 Caught in the Carousel - Music Reviews and More
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West Side Story
Soundtrack
Decca
“One of the many reasons I love my father’s score,” writes Jamie Bernstein in the liner notes to West Side Story, “is that it can be enjoyed on so many different levels.” While the storyline of the two star-crossed lovers openly borrows from Romeo And Juliet it also bravely tackles issues of interracial marriage, class warfare and the general conflicts of the heart. Not only that, but it wraps it all up in one of the most unforgettable Broadway musicals of all time. On the verge of celebrating its fiftieth anniversary, West Side Story gets a loving recorded update here, courtesy of New Zealander Hayley Westenra taking the role of Maria, and the multi-talented Italian tenor Vittorio Grigolo stepping in as Tony. With music written by Leonard Bernstein and lyrics penned by Stephen Sondheim, West Side Story is a treasure of unforgettable numbers (“I Feel Pretty,” “Jet Song”) that have embedded themselves into America’s collective consciousness. Under Westenra and Grigolo’s respectful gaze, the songs positively shimmer. “Maria” is stunning, “Balcony Scene” is utterly moving and “Gee, Officer Krupke” is deftly handled. Tragic, comic and altogether rousing, it’s no wonder that West Side Story is such an enduring classic. When you’re a jet you’re a jet, eh?
—Alex Green
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