Elton John, Tim Rice - Aida (2000 Original Broadway Cast)

For his second Broadway musical (and first time out writing a full show directly for the stage), Elton John certainly set his sights high by turning to one of the grandest of all operas as a source. His continued collaboration with lyricist Tim Rice has produced a work far closer to the agreeable pop style and formula of the team's Disney musical, The Lion King, than to the majesty and tragic passion of Verdi's opera. But the compelling tale of conflicting loyalties and star-crossed lovers--retooled in part by acclaimed playwright David Henry Hwang--inspires some of John's signature melodic felicity, as in "Elaborate Lives" and "Every Story Is a Love Story." And the original cast recording marks a dramatic leap forward from 1999's dreary mishmash studio concept album, thanks to the heat generated by Heather Headley and Rent star Adam Pascal as the forbidden lovers. Sherie René Scott can turn on a dime from a parodic stance ("My Strongest Suit") to sad resignation ("I Know the Truth"), while the three get to blend in the ensemble "A Step Too Far"--a pop counterpart to the intensity of operatic ensemble. The score touches on reggae and gospel, and on all-out rock balladry (where it's fun to hear Pascal clearly imitating John's characteristic vocal inflections), but it's most touching in the more reflective moments given to Headley's dignified Nubian princess. --Thomas May Amazon.com

Revisiting AIDA

My students and I enjoyed this CD. The fact that the words and outline
of the musical AIDA with photos of some scenes and characters were included was very helpful on making the music come alive.
June 1, 2008

On Broadway ...

Aida restores your faith in the unlimited potential of broaway musicals. The combined genius of Elton John's music and Tim Rice's lyrics leave you feeling like you're bathing in the afterglow of a shooting star - it's absolutely meteoric! Remember the first time you saw the Lion King and the music from "The Circle of Life" nearly lifted you off your feet? That's what this cd does, to the tenth power! Each song is an expertly crafted piece of drama and music, and the positive message of siezing your own destiny will get you through those dog days at work. I listened to this cd 7 times in the same day after it arrived at my pad, and it was worth every cent. If you want something to inspire your spirit and make your brain bristle, invest in this compact disc. You'll be glad you did. April 5, 2008

Wonderful Soundtrack

I have never seen the Broadway Aida, but I didn't have to to love this album. Make sure you read the plot summary in the booklet and it helps you understand the songs better. I love the reggae incorporated into it. My favorite songs are, Written in the Stars, The Gods Love Nubia, and Like Father Like Son. I love the character of Aida, she is a very strong woman, but not in the obnoxious womens rights obsessor. March 7, 2008

Great for singing along with!

If you like Elton John, this one's for you. The music is catchy; the lyrics feel at times like they've been manipulated to fit certain rhyme schemes, but the voices are excellent and the story is compelling. A very enjoyable listen. February 12, 2008

work of art

I saw this theater production with the original cast on broadway, and I absolutley loved it. The songs have such life to them. I'm not a big fan of Elton John, but I actually really loved his work with Aida. December 20, 2007

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