Fuck Yeah Stephen Sondheim

itsdlevy:

Elaine Paige
“Rainbow High”
Evita Original London Cast Album

Continuing my review of albums acquired on my European vacation…

The original London production of Evita was only preserved in a highlights album, which is a shame, because this cast is unique. Paige combines the beautiful singing of Julie Covington with the ferocity of Patti LuPone, striking a balance that’s perfect for the show. David Essex has a much more pop take on Che compared to Mandy Patinkin’s bombast or Colm Wilkinson’s rocker approach. Joss Ackland makes the most of the thankless role of Peron, but let’s be honest, you could record a cast album of Evita leaving out Peron entirely and not miss him.

As for this track - I think it gives you both sides of Evita, starting with prettier singing and erupting into ferocity at the key change. I love the way Paige growls the line “I won’t disappoint them” signaling this change.

There is so much I like about Evita it’s hard to know where to start. But starting with Elaine Paige is never a bad idea, right?