Comments on: Something’s Gotta Give: Simon Keenlyside Showtunes CHANDOS 2014

By: Sue

Sue — Tue, 02 Dec 2014 12:19:49 +0000

Hello Lee,
It’s so heartening to hear that Simon’s Tevye compares favourably with Zero Mostel’s. How very fortunate you were to see him.
Having twice seen Simon sing ‘If I Were a Rich Man’, I hazard to say that he is even better in a live performance. It may be that he can add a little more of his own interpretation as he is less tied to the original score or perhaps it’s that hint of a dance he inserts? Priceless! Especially in Wigmore Hall!

By: Ed Goodstein

Ed Goodstein — Sat, 29 Nov 2014 19:52:50 +0000

A really terrific album, and especially as many of these songs/numbers have been done so many
times too. Distinctive. I like the way that SK tones his voice to the material, without trying to
be ‘gritty/pop/conversational’ either. And very interesting in the careful efforts to recreate ‘original’ or at least close to original arrangements. Kudos to David Charles Abell , Derke Gretten-Harrison and others
who worked on that so well.

By: Lee Kefauver

Lee Kefauver — Wed, 26 Nov 2014 22:39:15 +0000

I finally received my copy of “Something’s Gotta Give” and you are right, Diana. What a joy it is–well worth the wait!
I had had the privilege of seeing most of these shows (our American operas), with the exception of those from the 1920’s, and 1930’s, which were a little before my time. Hearing SK sing those great songs brought back so many wonderful memories.
In 1964 I saw Zero Mostel play Tevye in Fiddler on the Roof, and what a great theatrical experience it was. Ten years later I took my children to a revival of Fiddler, and, while it was very well done, I could not help but be disappointed when this new Tevye sang “If I Were a Rich Man.” Every time since that evening when I heard, and saw, Zero Mostel do it, I have been disappointed in the performance of any other artist. That is, until now. What a thrilling performance SK gave! I had no feeling of disappointment in hearing Simon sing it. But then, Simon Keenlyside never disappoints, does he?

By: Sue

Sue — Tue, 04 Nov 2014 18:38:39 +0000

Yes Marilyn – got it!
Well spotted!

By: Marilyn

Marilyn — Tue, 04 Nov 2014 15:40:14 +0000

OK . . . has anyone else picked up on Simon’s sly little inside joke in “If I Were a Rich Man”?

By: Diana jones

Diana jones — Tue, 04 Nov 2014 08:04:44 +0000

Well worth the wait, Lee! Every track is a gem, and Simon’s take on Fagin (Reviewing the Situation) has to be heard to be believed! Can this really be the same man who recently gave us a heart-wrenching Rigoletto and a stunningly “visual” Winterreise?? What an amazing talent that knows no bounds, and to be at any of his performances is an honour and a privilege. I do hope that he’ll treat us to a concert of the songs on the new CD before too long! – Diana.

By: Lee Kefauver

Lee Kefauver — Mon, 03 Nov 2014 23:28:56 +0000

Those of us “across the pond” have to wait until November 18th for the CD’s release. Amazon.com is taking pre-orders. This month’s exercise in patience!