Bridge of Madison County - Broadway Cast

One of my (many) passions is Musical Theatre. If I could I'd go to the theatre every week. But, I can't, so the next best thing is to buy the CD of a show I like the look of.

I know nothing about musical composition, so I'm not going to be able to give in-depth critiques on individual tracks.
What you'll get from me is an opinion on the show on first listen and then I will usually post later with updates.

First up...is the new Broadway Cast Recording of The Bridges of Madison County.

Composed by Jason Robert Brown (Parade, Songs for a New World, The Last Five Years and 13). Based on the book of the same name.

I'd never seen the film or read the book; but I did remember reading very good reviews of the film when it was released. So, being a fan of the composer, I decided to take a risk.

Boy, am I glad I did.
On first listen I hate this show. Kelli O'Hara's voice sliced through my head like a pickaxe and a couple of others voices seemed nasal.

At the time of listening I was on my PC and not giving the show my attention. Lesson learned! When listening to a new musical it's best to actually listen!

Yes, Kelli O'Hara has a strident soprano voice but the moments of tenderness she portrays are beautiful. Likewise, the 'nasal' voices are nothing of the sort -what they are is tinged with local accent. A mark of authenticity and nothing to criticise.

The story is about a married woman who falls in love with a visiting photographer. She's married. He's not. They have a brief affair before he leaves town. She doesn't go with him. There's more to it, but that's the gist.

Anyone who knows Jason Robert Brown's work will know he writes particularly good ballads. There are many in 'Bridges', but of special note are the following:

Temporarily Lost
Falling Into You
Always Better
Almost Real

If you like your musicals rewarding and beautiful then this may be the show for you.

This wonderful show can be bought here:
Bridges of Madison County - Broadway Cast