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0 of 1 found the following review helpful:
 Not "The Producers", But Brooks Still Delivers Nov 09, 2008
Let me preface this by saying that while I was not disappointed, this was not "The Producers". The vaudevillian shtick assembled from the elements of "Young Frankenstein" invite comparisons to Brooks' other show all too well. Musical stylings, song purpose/placement, and gags in "Young Frankenstein" can all find a comparable correlation to corresponding components of the book and score of "The Producers", with the latter winning out in every instance. Now, after saying all that, I still do heartily recommend "Young Frankenstein". In fact, I'm bewildered by the critical dismissal of it, and wonder what show the critics instead had seen. The score as captured on this album genuinely reflects the tone and musical delight that can be heard at the Hilton Theatre. Gloriously old-fashioned Broadway classics in the style of Cole Porter, Rodgers & Hammerstein, Jerry Herman, Frank Loesser, and Jule Styne (with a touch of high-drama operetta and Kurt Weill) roll effortlessly from track to track in a cohesive and tuneful pastiche. Melodically hummable, lyrically serviceable and witty, Mel has offered his well-known and loved brand of bawdy, bouncy, bright, catchy, colorful, and downright brilliant. I defy you not to give the likes of "Please Don't Touch Me", "Roll in the Hay", "Join the Family Business", or "Deep Love" a second listen. And such production numbers abound with a nonstop fount of talent to support them. There's no need to highlight one original cast member here, as they all range from adequate to superb in a surprising array of textural diversity. And the lush 24-piece orchestra is so intricately weaved into such a rich harmonic web by the marvelous Doug Besterman that you almost feel dizzy and giddy with an energetic rush of excitement. And while I could go on further, there's no point. If you read this, disprove what all the naysayers and detractors want to prevent you from knowing. Obviously, it is a matter of musical taste first and foremost. Don't expect a contemporary rock/pop/Latin-tinged score ala "Spring Awakening" or "In the Heights". But, if you care to indulge in a taste of what Broadway was like during its peak Golden Age, this album is a must, quite simply. But, again, let me remind you that this is not "The Producers", which stands as the only other album capable of evoking a retro feel of 50's-era Broadway standards in modern times. Mel came pretty damn close though, so do yourself a favor and savor it: "Music that soothes the soul when words are useless."
0 of 1 found the following review helpful:
Pleasantly Surprised Sep 27, 2008
Being a fan of THE PRODUCERS I was excited when this show first was announced, and then dismayed by the so-so reviews it received on Broadway. Still, having heard a couple of tracks off of the cast recording and loving them, I purchased the YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN cd, and thoroughly enjoyed the entire score. Sure, the critics had it in for Mel Brooks and panned his project, but the score and the cast are all top notch. Definitely not Sondheim, but if you love music along the lines of Irving Berlin, you will not be disappointed in this recording.
1 of 2 found the following review helpful:
It put me right back on Broadway! Sep 17, 2008
My kids and I saw this play on Broadway last month. I bought the CD (which was significantly cheaper at amazon than at the theatre!) to sort of help keep the memories alive. I figured we spent a fortune on the tickets, what was a few more bucks for a memento? The CD works perfectly! It puts me right back in my seat on Broadway to experience the play all over again. The recording is clear and full. The characterizations of all the actors come through very well.
0 of 1 found the following review helpful:
Another Score for Mel Jul 06, 2008
Don't believe what you read in the New York Times, especially those caustic reviews by Ben Brantley. He needs to go! Get Clive Barnes back! "Young Frankenstein" is a wonderful, hilarious romp parodying the musicals of Cole Porter and Friml and Youmans. It takes you back to when musicals were fun and frolicsome. There are great performances from everyone. Only Roger Bart doesn't match the mayhem and I think that is more of a directorial matter. I would love to see someone like Bill Irwin or even Robin Williams takeover the role.
The audience simply adored the show when I saw it. And the CD is well worth the price. If you're in New York take in "YF" and another Brantley reject "A Catered Affair." Take a pass on "In the Heights" which is over-hyped and a Latino rip-off of "Rent" and "West Side Story." I just heard that "In the Heights" has already recalled all future discount tickets even though they were purchased before the show won the Tony.
I guess the inhabitants of the Heights won't get to see their own story now.
0 of 1 found the following review helpful:
Fantastic! Jun 20, 2008
Having been to and enjoyed the musical whilst on holiday in New York I decided to buy the soundtrack when back in the UK. From the first song to the last I loved the soundtrack and, if nothing else, can remind me of the time I spent in New York and the show in particular.
The tunes are great, the lyrics highly amusing and very much in keeping with the original film.
I can't wait to go back to NY to see the show again. Thank you Mel Brooks.
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