Customer Reviews

Copacabana (1994 Original London Cast)

5 star:		(6)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

OK I'll admit I did my share of Barry bashing in my day, but when it comes to "Copacabana", this score just rocks! My favorite tracks include "Dancin' Fool"-it's got such a driving beat to it! I also like "Who Am I Kidding?"- one of the 2 funniest songs on the album, the other is "Welcome to Havana". If you like Barry's power ballads, then check out "Who needs to Dream". I know some people may think this score shouldn't be 5 stars the way a Sondheim or R&H should be, but sometimes ya just need to listen to something that never takes itself too seriously.

"Copacabana" has rhythms for everyone - swing, jazz, ballad and Latin! The music is energetic and full of fine percussion and horn - it should get anyone on their feet! There are a few recognizable tunes a la Barry Manilow (aside from the title song). The composers and lyricist have taken time to develop catchy tunes and some clever and excellent lyrics in most cases. For musical theatre buffs, the tale of Lola and Tony and the obstacles which, true to musical theatre, ALMOST keep them apart is a familiar but never tiring story. The albumn is a must for Barry Manilow fans - and if you aren't a Manilow fan, give it a listen. I think you will find some nice surprises.

One of the best musicals touring the country! With it's popluar title song and wonderful Latin beat throughout, it is certain to make its mark with this era's contemporary, modern musicals. This soundtrack is a winner: almost like sitting in the theatre. Worth every penny, and cheaper than tickets! Have a front row seat every time!

I purchased this CD believing that Barry Manilow was actually in this show. I should have read the information more carefully. Having said that I found the music somewhat bland. The notes on the plot suggest an interesting story line. But the music does not grab. The ensemble numbers are better than good. "Just Arrived" is a clever piece with different characters singing about their hopes and dreams. And the Copacabana theme is satisfyingly Caribbean. Overall the music does not have the spirit the linear notes said it had. One waits for the verve, but the melodies do not bite or make the toe tap.

I have reviewed the albumn before and was too reticent. On further examination and listening, I am prepared to say that this show should be a smash success! I love it, and Barry Manilow and I am not afraid to admit it - All other Manilow addicts are welcome to agree with me. I've been in love with Barry since his "Mandy" days. I love "Copa" so much that I am about to direct a production of it. I will let you all know how it all turns out!... In the meantime, BUY THE ALBUMN!

One of the best musicals touring the country! With it's popluar title song and wonderful Latin beat throughout, it is certain to make its mark with this era's contemporary, modern musicals. This soundtrack is a winner: almost like sitting in the theatre. Worth every penny, and cheaper than tickets! Have a front row seat every time!

I don't know what took me so long to buy this CD. I think Barry is very good in Copa and should have been in movies. He is a natural and has a great sense of humor, again a natural. I love Barry because he makes me feel young and everyday I listen to his music whether it is a video or in my car. There just aren't enough nice things to say about this man. I have never seen him in concert, but plan on attending one as soon as he comes to my area. He has such an enduring talent and I only wish I could know him personally. He is just like the kids I grew up with when I lived in New York. Fun and just full of life. I Love You Barry!!!!

Barry Manilow's Copacabana
Original London Cast Recording

Barry does NOT sing in this album. (I just assumed that he did and that is really why I bought it.) Even though B does not SING the songs, it is his music and there are really great arrangements of his songs here. This music was recorded at the Palace Theater, Manchester England in May 1994. The production stars Gary Wilmot as Tony and Nicola Dawn as Lola. They are quite good and the musical arrangements are fabulous. Many songs are quite HOT and many are of a decent length. There are also lots of Latin beats. As a matter of fact, I was dancing in the car while listening to some of these tracks. -- I don't know why people look at you so funny when you do that :-o

Anyway, the songs are:

1) Overture
2) Copacabana
3) Just Arrived
4) Dancin' Fool
5) Night On The Town
6) Man Wanted
7) Lola
8) Who Needs to Dream? - One of my favorite Barry songs--so beautiful
9) Ay Caramba!
10) Bolero de Amor
11) Sweet Heaven - Another of my favorite Barry songs
12) Who Am I Kidding
13) Who Am I Kidding (Reprise)
14) This Can't Be Real
15) Welcome to Havana
16) The Mermaid's Tale
17) El Bravo!
18) Who Needs to Dream? (Reprise)
19) Copacabana (Finale)

I would have loved to have been there to see this show performed! There are 19 tracks, totaling about one hour. This is a very enjoyable and primarily up-tempo album. It has a young, vibrant, energetic feel to it, with fabulous arrangements by Barry, The Copa Man!

This product fit our needs perfectly. Our daughter is a dancer and needed some songs from this sound-track. If not for dance, however, this product would not be up my alley.

Well there are the extreme dramas like Les Miserables, and there are there's the fluff like Copacabana. BUT Copa is not crap fluff; this CD is actually quite an enjoyable listen. The singers aren't spectacular, but they aren't horrible either. The lyrics are... well, not everything you've dreamed of, but they are certainly fitting with the song Copacabana. I bought this CD some years ago when my high school was performing it, but hadn't listened to it with a critical ear till recently and I was presently surprised at how many times I smiled during the listen. I would suggest this for anyone who likes a smile encouraging show. If you are a Showboat purist, you can pass this one, but beyond that, this show is for every age and person. Favorite song: "Man Wanted"