Anthology
The line between evangelist and entertainer has always been somewhat indistinct. But as showcased on this 43-track, double-disc collection culled from his 87-96 recordings for Elektra, Nonesuch and Atlantic, Michael Feinstein's dedication to spreading the gospel of the American song often blurs it beyond recognition. While the singer's pedigree for the task is impeccable (a long-term stint as Ira Gershwin's assistant and early career sponsorship by Liza Minelli), his interpretations often succeed by playing off a tense axis of fervent emotionalism and a joyous sense of irreverence. If his readings of romantic standards can sometimes tend towards the precious, they're often balanced here by sheer dramatic power and telling insights ("Isn't It Romantic" fairly bristles with ironic chauvinism) and a few decidedly loopy curves ("The Mole People", the Sherman Brothers' "The Ugly Bug Ball" and the previously unreleased "Rhode Island Is Famous for You"). Feinstein's dedicated song archaeology is also showcased on several gems: "Violin", a duet with Liza Minelli; "My Favorite Year", a rejected ballad for the film of the same name; the sublime "lost" Gershwin classic "Ask Me Again". Sprinkled with live performances (the forum where Feinstein's talents seem most energised) and studio outtakes, and featuring a lengthy print interview with the singer, it's a set that chronicles both the pioneering efforts of one of pop music's most successful revivalists and, crucially, the cream of his beloved American songwriters, from stalwarts Gershwin, Berlin and Porter to later legends such as Herman, Styne, Lane, Martin, Mercer and others. --Jerry McCulley Binding Audio CD. Artist(s): Michael Feinstein. Publisher(s): Rhino-Atlantic. Label: Rhino-Atlantic. Format: Best of.
| Manufacturer: | Rhino Records |
| Part Number: | 081227825423 |
| Lowest Price (CAD): | $66.63 |
Product Features |
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| Artist : | Michael Feinstein |
| Brand : | Rhino-Atlantic |
| Format : | CD |
| music_track : | Violin (with Liza Minnelli) |
