You won't be disappointed (Wicked - Soundtrack)

Member Name: carbyjo

Product:	Wicked - Soundtrack
Date:	07/06/09 (16 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Includes the brilliant original Broadway cast

Disadvantages: As with any soundtrack it lacks the feeling of being in a theatre

This is the soundtrack of brilliant musical Wicked. The show started on Broadway, and is now in theatres all around the world, gaining much success. Like the musical, the soundtrack does not disappoint. The recording is of the original Broadway cast, with the likes of Idina Menzel (Rent, The Wild Party) as Elphaba "Wicked Witch Of the West" and Kristin Chenoweth (Pushing Daisies, You're A Good Man Charlie Brown) as Glinda "The Good". Both put in amazing performances on stage, and on the most part this soundtrack does them justice. Having said this, it doesn't seem to quite capture the electric feeling they create in a live performance - though can a soundtrack ever? The rest of the cast and ensemble are similarly good.

Highlights include the most famous song, Defying Gravity and the end duet between the two witches, For Good. Songs such as Popular and What Is This Feeling which are some of the highlights onstage loose their comedic impact somewhat without the performance alongside vocals. This, however, is only to be expected due to the nature of a soundtrack. The one thing I would add to the CD is the number Wicked Witch of the East, sung by Michelle Federer in the original cast, which is sadly missing.

Overall I would highly recommend this soundtrack, particularly if you have seen and enjoyed Wicked on stage. And if you haven't already seen it, then buy the album and be inspired to go and see the show. If you enjoy musicals you won't be disappointed.

Summary: One of the great musicals of recent years, this is a soundtrack not to be missed