Various Artists
The Rocky Horror Picture Show - The New Broadway (Cast Recording)
(2001)
Reviewed by Brian A. Smith
Like many of you, I first saw The Rocky Horror Picture Show in high school. At the time, I was irreverent enough to appreciate the humor, and the parody of the genre, and especially the interactive nature of the performance. Now, at 33, it's difficult for me to understand why this musical continues to find new audiences. It's dated, campy, and over the top as far as how far it will go to attempt to be shocking.
However, the talent on this disc cannot be denied. Tom Hewitt steps into the role of Frank 'N' Furter with no discernible difference (at least audibly) between him and Tim Curry. Alice Ripley takes on the role of Janet Weiss (originally portrayed by Susan Sarandon), and nebbish Brad Majors is played by Tony Award winner Jarrod Emick.
The songs are the same ones we remember - "Dammit Janet," "Time Warp," and "Sweet Transvestite" are all here. There is a new track, though, to those who have only seen the movie. "Once in a While" is a cast number that was cut from the movie, and features unlikely narrator Dick Cavett.
Simply put, if you're a fan of the show, you'll enjoy this CD. If not, then you won't understand what all the fuss is about.
3 tocks
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