I wish I was alive in the 30's. Musical comedy was fluff and fun. Toe tapping tunes, charm songs, novelty songs, and Ethel Merman. Sounds like fun, no? Enter Cole Porter. Master of Ceremonies. His shows had such delicious titles (Leave it to Me!, Oh, Kay!) all with explanation marks!!!
I love the Smithsonian albums made in the late 70's. The notes and pictures inside are just incredible. I've already played through the Lady, Be Good! and Anything Goes albums. The audio quality is superb. Ethel Merman sounds in tip top form. She sounds so much younger than we are used to hearing her (Mama Rose anyone?). Ridin' High is a highlight on the album. Is that head voice or belting? She was the original queen of the mix. This is an excellent recording of a Young Merman. I think it a stretch to call this an Original Cast Recording since no one else from the cast is featured, but it is nice to hear these old songs as they were heard in the theater. A-
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