AmericanTheaterWeb Original News & Reviews

I have piles of them that need writing about … from the exceptional octet from SonyMasterworks that are available as digital download or in disc format from Arkiv Music to a trio from UK's StageDoor that nal Cast Records has begun importing.

I have been listening to a lot of these discs and others, but today, I want to share some thoughts on two releases that provide a terrific snapshot of the talent currently writing for musical theater.

First off, today's the day that Ghostlight Records' cast recording of Next to Normal is available in stores. I've had an advance for a while and I must say that I grow increasingly fond of it with each subsequent listen. Tom Kitt's score is a rich amalgam of pop sounds that have been distilled into a theatrical idiom. Brian Yorkey's lyrics are to be savored for their incisiveness. I've not seen the complete package, but if previous releases from Ghostlight are any indication, it will be a handsome production. And by the way, if you're in New York, remember you can meet Kitt and Yorkey and members of the cast today at Barnes & Noble Lincoln Center (1972 Broadway at 66th Street) at 4 PM.

Equally exciting – and I have to admit I've just listened to these five tracks once - Alphabet City Cycle, a song cycle from composer Georgia Stitt and lyricist Marcy Heisler. The quintet of tunes here are musical mini-monologues that chronicle things like reeling from a break-up and nesting into a new apartment. Stitt's melodies are richly atmospheric, captivating the ear, and Heisler's lyrics are sort of like bittersweet poetry. The pieces are sung with emotion by Kate Baldwin, who's accompanied by Victoria Paterson on violin. These are an iTunes exclusive from PS Classics. You might want to surf over and pick up this latter release.

---- Andy Propst