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The Phantom of the Opera


RRP: £18.99
Our Price: £9.98 (subject to change)

Editorial
Amazon.co.uk Review

What's left to be said about Andrew Lloyd Webber's adaptation of The Phantom of the Opera a decade after its premiere? That it's maddeningly ubiquitous? A stitch-up of various themes shoplifted from the Italian operatic repertoire? A critic-proof crowd pleaser that's probably being staged somewhere in the world as you read this? A mega-hit that will likely outlive Titanic in the pop-culture pantheon, Phantom has largely redefined--for better or worse--the manner in which modern musicals are conceived, staged and marketed. Its influence has reached far beyond the traditional confines of London and Broadway. A favourite example: an abridged version that was the centrepiece of Los Angeles' longest running transvestite revue, replete with 14-inch chandeliers and a man-playing-a-woman-playing-a-man in the title role. --Jerry McCulley


Superb!
Review date: 2007-08-18 Rating: 10 out of 10

I own the film soundtrack and this original cast recording version. I've seen the show 4 times now and this CD brings back the memories; the Overture does give you goose bumps and from this recording you get the flavour of the theatre experience.

When sung well, as they are in this case, 'Music of the Night' and 'All I Ask of You' are very moving. Sarah Brightman is the star of the original show as her voice is truly moving. I've always been skeptical about Michael Crawford, although his signing is excellent, I don't think brings the true gravitas of the character of the Phantom all that well.
I do like his interpretation of 'Music of the Night' though.

I've always preferred a Phantom that doesn't have too much of a 'Choir-Boy' type voice; Crawford gets close to this for me but never quite crosses the line. I saw performance once in London and it was a Stand-in Phantom and his voice was too high, I'm afraid!

Speaking of which, go and see Earl Carpenter, currently starring in the West End in London as the Phantom. He is the master. The last time I went with my wife-to-be and he was perfect; his portrayal of 'Music of the Night' that night was the best I've ever seen or heard, anywhere including New York (the Broadway cast were no slackers either, they were excellent).

So, which is best, the film or this soundtrack? My answer is they are both excellent, but are both very different portrayals of the songs. Get them both because it's worth it.



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Reviews


Fabulous!!!
Review date: 2007-07-12 Rating: 10 out of 10

I saw a recent production of the Phantom of the Opera at Her Majesty's Theatre in London....this album takes me right back...the overture gives me goosebumps!!! I would recomend this album to anyone who is a an of the Phantom of the Opera!!

Phantom of the Opera review
Review date: 2007-06-07 Rating: 10 out of 10


This album is an original cast recording of Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical production of the phantom of the opera based on the book by Gaston Leroux.
It tells the story of a once great composer, who after an accident, was left with a deformed face. He wears a mask and hides in the depths of the Paris Opera House. He is known as the "Phantom of the Opera" as he scares the performers and demands wages and a seat at every performance.
However the supposedly heartless Phantom falls in love with his pupil Christine Daaé. She begins to like him but when his face is revealed to her she is struck with horror.
She is then reunited with her childhood friend Raoul de Chagny. She falls in love with him and, as expected the Phantom is furious.
He resorts to anything even murder, to get Christine back. However it just makes her more frightened of him. Despite his evil ways, you feel sorry for the Phantom at the end.
The music written to explain the story is amazing. When listening to the album you're transported to Her Majesty's theatre, as it feels as if you are in the audience. I think this is the main aim with recordings of musicals, and this one certainly achieved it.
This album includes many famous songs that are familiar to people worldwide. When first released the Phantom of the Opera made many music hits with its songs. Some songs are "phantom of the opera", "wishing you were some how here again", "music of the night" and "masquerade" to name a few.
Although it is a long album it is worth buying because the story is very easy to follow. The music immediately draws you in and leaves you feeling entertained. If you have watched the performance, this album is a great opportunity to remind you of the songs.




My favourite CD of all time.
Review date: 2007-04-13 Rating: 10 out of 10

This really is my favourite collection of songs of all time. Need I explain? The music speaks for itself. I grew up with the CD in the car as a baby, in the time of recorded tapes, and saw the production on my thirteenth birthday. I still listen to it now (although on CD!), and am planning a return to the theatre.
Andrew Lloyd Webbers works are all fantastic, but in my opinion this one shows his true talent and merits. The complexity of the melodies, and various singers in every song amaze me every time I listen - in particular to "Prima Donna".
A true classic in the history of music. I recommend this CD to everyone who has an interest in truly wonderful music, obviously with a focus on musicals and west-end productions. Certainly growing up with this music has made me far more appreciative of fabulous music and the arts than many of my friends!
I imagine this CD will be with me forever. A bargain if ever I saw one.

ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT!!!
Review date: 2007-02-23 Rating: 10 out of 10

Cannot honestly say how much I LOVE the CD! Michael Crawford and Sarah Brightman are perfect in the roles of Phantom and Christine, and make it so believable.

I have been to see the stage show recently, and a few of the lyrics have been changed since (quite a lot in 'Think of Me' and a few in 'Down Once More' at the end)

If you loved the show, the CD is a must!!

Product Details/Specifications


Artist(s):
Original London Cast Andrew Lloyd Webber

Recording label: Polydor Group
Manufacturer: Polydor Group
EAN: 0731454392822
Binding: Audio CD
Format: Box set, Double CD, Original recording remastered, Soundtrack,
Release date: 2000-10-30
Universal product code (UPC): 731454392822
Number of discs: 2
Running time: 99 minutes

Disc 1 Tracks:
1. Prologue (The Stage Of Paris Opera House, 1905)
2. Overture - Original London Cast
3. Think Of Me - Sarah Brightman, Steve Barton
4. Angel Of Music
5. Little Lotte.../ The Mirror... (Angel Music)
6. The Phantom Of The Opera
7. The Music Of The Night
8. I Remember.../Stranger Than You Dream It...
9. Magical Lasso...
10. Notes/Prima Donna
11. Poor Fool, He Makes Me Laugh
12. Why Have You Brought Me Here
13. All I Ask Of You
14. All I Ask Of You (Reprise)


Disc 2 Tracks:
1. Entr'acte (Act Two - Six Months Later)
2. Masquerade / Why So Silent - Original London Cast
3. Notes.../Twisted Every Way
4. Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again
5. Wandering Child../Bravo, Monsieur
6. The Point Of No Return
7. Down Once More.../Track Down This Murderer...

Publishers: Polydor Group

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