In Britain, with its European nature, artists that would be relegated to a "classical" ghetto enjoy popular success. Hence, Lesley Garrett is a best-selling artist in England. Popular love songs sung in English from musicals and opera has figured highly into Garrett's output and this collection... [+] Expand

In Britain, with its European nature, artists that would be relegated to a "classical" ghetto enjoy popular success. Hence, Lesley Garrett is a best-selling artist in England. Popular love songs sung in English from musicals and opera has figured highly into Garrett's output and this collection compiles the best of them. Track-by-track notes touch on the greater work each piece originates from and work largely as a chronological history of the soprano in musicals. On most of these pieces, the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra backs Garret. The opening is given to "Lover, Come Back to Me" and is both thrilling while the soprano displays in the upper registers and whimsically endearing. A similar mix of drama and coyness can be had from Hammerstein's "Dat's Love" from Carmen Jones based on Bizet's "Carmen." The minimal accompaniment to "Lover (Love Me Tonight)" allows us to appreciate Garrett's superb vocal lyric and clarity. The bombastic "Love Is Where You Find it (The Kissing Bandit)" may effect musical comedy, but Garrett's technique continues to be exquisitely professional and powerful. The highpoint of the disc is "You Were My First Love" from Wuthering Heights, a duet with Dave Willetts. The delivery from the vocalists and musicians is robust, both vital and touching. A Soprano in Love condenses excellent recorded output in this area into a memorable and entertaining overview. ~ Tom Schulte, All Music Guide [-] Collapse

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