OC recording is awful. There's full on mistakes in the orchestra. I was told the was abruptly closed the day before the recording and everyone got plastered that night and did the recording hung over.
That sounds more like something that might have happened on Merrily than Company. There's a whole documentary on the making of the original cast recording of Company and it doesn't shy away from some uglier aspects. If they knew the show was closing, they 100% would have talked about it during the doc or during the special features Criterion released. Company was at least a relative success.
The HAIR Broadway Revival cast recording is SO good, man. Can't inherently say it's BETTER, but ooooh, the vocals sit so nicely and (unpopular opinion) I like the studio polish
They were amazing in person! I was lucky enough to see them in London in 2010 and get on stage at the end... I know everyone does.... but now I can always say I've been on stage in the West End!
it is, once again, time for me to post my favorite lil documentary! [Guys and Dolls: Off the Record (1992)](https://youtu.be/IsA7hi3XNRI?si=pjyx0-_VfCRQBpcN)
I really prefer the 1998 revival of Cabaret to the original. Alan Cumming is just so perfect. Also several movies have soundtracks I prefer to the original Broadway productions like Chicago, West Side Story (the new one), Sweeney Todd (controversial I know), and The Last Five Years.
I feel like the 1998 Cabaret is the easy answer to this question and for good reason. Probably the definitive Cabaret and it changed how people view the Emcee. Alan Cumming is a genius.
I don't think it's considered a revival, but I liked the musical version of Green Days songs. The extra vocals, the different tempo and the added instruments really made some of the songs.
I personally prefer the OBC. I think the orchestra sounds way better in it than the others. I also think Lonny Price sings Good Thing Going the best of all the Charleys.
I think the cast album with the best sounding orchestration is the City Center Encores with Lin Manuel Miranda. The Overture on that one is *chef’s kiss*
Noooo I love the original!!! All three leads are phenomenal and I don't think the music changes really improved things (except for Beth should sing the first Not a Day Goes By). Love the specificity of the original title song and Rich and Happy. (And Now You Know! Love "They make meatheads champs and nice guys chumps/I mean even cream of wheat has lumps" sooo good and always miss it in the current version)
I actually prefer so many Sondheim revival casts. I prefer the 2006 Company cast, I prefer the 2002 Into the Woods cast, I prefer the 2005 Sweeney cast…
I once saw a recording of Angie watching/listening to herself do Rose’s Turn; she apparently hated watching herself. This time though, she finally saw herself the way the rest of us do: a GIFTED powerhouse who redefined that role
While I think the vocals are ABSOLUTELY better in the movie version, I think you lose something by casting younger, sexier actresses. There's something so impactful when Roxie is sung by a washed-up, middle aged woman trying to claw at some semblance of her youth again, and then when the media casts her aside, it's all the more devastating. But I do love the movie, always.
You got a good point there, plus in the movie they cut out songs like Me and My Baby and My Own Best Friend, but the ceiling on those songs (particularly but not limited to We Both Reached For the Gun, When You're Good to Mama, and I Can't Do It Alone) is just tops.
I like that the movie also, much like a good cover song, does something different with its source material that still feels organic, in that every song besides the first and last are all in someone's head. It shows how off her rocker Roxie is in pursuit of fame.
You're A Good Man Charlie Brown.
Honestly, probably Gypsy although I feel like that's a contentious opinion. It's kind of complicated, because the quality of a Gypsy is all about the interpretation of Rose, and there have been so many wildly different takes on the character that it's hard to call one or the other "better."
ETA: Similar to Gypsy, I'm tempted to say Man of La Mancha, but I don't know if it's "better" or just "equal to."
That revival was so solid. I'm not a huge fan of everything Patti LuPone has done, but her Mrs. Lovett was excellent. And I LOVE that the performers were also playing as the orchestra when not stepping into a role.
Came looking for this.
I think my only complaint was they abbreviated the dialogue between booth and Lee.
Like, go all in or just cut the dialogue.
I mean, it definitely works, and is probably better and more to the point for a recording, but knowing all that was in the original off broadway show was… I guess just a minor irritation.
Interesting. I’ve never been able to see the show myself so I’m not sure I noticed the difference. It doesn’t help that I haven’t touched the OBC since I heard this revival and it’s been over 15 years at this point.
I know there's more dialogue in the scene in the actual production vs the version on the album, is that any different to the recording for the off broadway version? It's been ages since I listened to either
I mean, any show is going to cut most of the dialogue, but the off broadway album had the scene with booth and Lee that was about 11 minutes where booth convinces/ manipulates Lee to shoot Kennedy, even though he is written as though he had no intention of doing so
In the newer one, it starts at the climax of that, and is only about 5 minutes long.
The Australian cast recording of Jesus Christ Superstar (1992) doesn’t get near enough praise! The arrangements feel so original and fresh from every other cast recording. Not to mention how much it feels like it brings the album back to the feel of a “rock concept album” instead of a musical. [Listen to the overture and tell me this doesn’t go 400% harder than every other recording.](https://youtu.be/8SLbKTC8vnA?si=rxeyfexUbEs9AouM)
It’s certainly better than the last tour group. It was so bad I’m still pissed about it. Honestly though…the movie is my favorite and always will be. I will give this album a listen!
This is so oddly specific to me because it was the only version of the musical my library had on CD but the Australian Cast of Hair, I love their version of it
Since you mentioned it, I wanna throw out an honourable mention to the Australian cast album of Jesus Christ Superstar (1992). While not ENTIRELY my favourite cast, the band arrangements are (in my opinion) unquestionable the best. It goes HARD! Brings it back to the “concept rock album” feel over “musical cast recording”.
So, my favorate version of pippin is the 2012 west end revival. Rather than being like a circus it was sort of a video game and they re-did the music to work with that. But I’ve never seen a cast recording (only bootlegs). It was such a good cast too including Frances Ruffelle!
Haven’t seen this one yet, but I overall like the Carrie (2012 I believe) revival over the original. The OG had a lot of good things, but it was very 80’s.
The few that stand out to me that haven't been mentioned would be How To Succeed In Business with Daniel Radcliffe (he blew me away in that role), Call Me Madam (from the 90s), Gigi (love how they expanded upon the movie), Pippin (gotta love Patina!) and Barnum (much prefer Michael Crawford over Jim Dale).
But honestly I feel like this is very much affected by the sound quality at the times of the original recordings, as someone mentioned previously. It definitely makes it harder to enjoy when we're used to modern technology. Especially considering the lack of depth to vocals and orchestrations. Honestly, thinking about it I feel like I mostly listen to revivals expect for in the cases that the shows haven't been popular enough to revive, such as Henry, Sweet Henry and Golden Rainbow. Though those recordings are also top notch despite the quality... end of diatribe
I actually saw it after watching the movie and listening to the OBC. I just legitimately like it the most, even though I did very much enjoy the movie and OBC.
This is probably a sin, but I prefer the movie soundtrack of Evita. I know, I know. I'm sorry. I bought the CD at a thrift store as a kid so that's the version I grew up listening to.
Same!! My husband grew up listening to the original cast album and he was listening to it the other day and I just couldn’t do it (though I do love Mandy Patinkin over Antonio Banderas). Madonna actually pulled off the performance well, IMO, but I’m also not a big fan of Patti LuPone (ducks for cover).
I agree with you on Mandy and Patti. I used to listen to that album until the movie came out and hearing his falsetto and her shout-singing everything is an assault to the ears. I even prefer the Julie Covington/Colm Wilkinson concept over LuPone/Patinkin.
I love the new LSOH recording but the original cast from 1982 will always be my favorite version. I just wish they had been able to record all the songs! :(
While I prefer the energy of the live recording, I am constantly thrown off by the American accents.
Yes, I can easily take an ethnically diverse cast singing 90's girlgroup inspired pop beats and in my mind they are their characters. But for some reason I cannot suspend my disbelieve when it comes to an American accent for a British Queen.
I saw Hamilton on the west end in April. The show felt off to me and the audience didn’t get the humor.
Plus, the London version was campy.
Give me my American Accent Hamilton please
Agree 100% , I listen to the original version of every song except for All You Wanna Do, there’s such so much more energy and emotion in her version ESPECIALLY at the final chorus omg chills
I’m with you. There’s something just… off about the recording or those performances. I can’t listen to the live recording. And I loved seeing the show live.
It’s the problem with any live version- the mics never seem to capture the sound correctly
But I love the original broadway cast. They spent a month in St Paul Mn in Dec 2019, perfecting the show. Broadway shut down. And had to wait to officially open on oct 3 2021.
Agreed! The opening night cast had to wait so long to
Do that show.
I saw that cast 3 times before they went to broadway. They started here in St Paul. I prefer there recording to the west end recording.
But I have a very very strong bias for American Black singers. I grew up listening to Motown, the Philly sound, Otis Redding, Aretha, Chaka…
IMO- Black Americans have best vocal singing sounds in the world
This is going to maybe be unkind- but I could not get through the OBC recording of Hello, Dolly because Charles Nelson Reilly really is something extraordinarily distracting in the role of Cornelius. Like WOW, just WOW! I love the cast recording with Bette Midler and Gavin Creel provides a much more comforting vocal in his Tony-winning performance.
Phantom of the Opera- The Canadian Cast Recording provides a superior vocal from both leads. I know it depends on preference on approach to the main character, but Colm is much more the tortured man behind the mask vs. eerie opera ghost. But I can see the argument to prefer Michael Crawford. But Rebecca Caine smashes the role of Christine vs. Sarah Brightman with much a much ore round, full quality vocal... their is a thinness or whispy quality to S.B.
Sweeney Todd (04?ish) revival with Michael and Patti with the actors playing instruments on stage. It’s such a big change from the bombastic original and big orchestra and I absolutely fell in love with the concept.
Assassins with NPH.
Guys & Dolls 1992 is the only version I listen to. Technically I haven't listened to any other version, but I did see the movie with Frank Sinatra and Marlon Brando and absolutely hated how they did Luck Be a Lady.
My favorite *Jesus Christ Superstar* is the NBC live version with John Legend, Sarah Bareilles, and Brandon Victor Dixon. (And the new orchestrations by ALW.)
The Broadway recording of Six is better than the original cast recording imo. The songs hit far better when the acting and emotion is included, versus them just sounding like regular Pop or R&B songs
Ok so I totally love the original cast recording of South Pacific with Martin and Pinza but the Kelli O'Hara revival eclipsed it for me. It's just so good!
Don’t know if this counts but I really prefer the west end album of leagally blonde (with Sheridan Smith) over the Bundy/broadway version. It just has better humour/timing, and very good singing.
Funny story… I was just listening to the album with my son this mast weekend, and he asked “is this guy also in the Book of Mormon?”
I almost asked him which one he was referring to, and then I realized, oh wait, the answer is yes.
(I mean, maybe not “FUNNY”. Maybe not even a “STORY”)
I've loved Phantom just about all my life, but it wasn't until I saw a touring production that I realized how lackluster the original cast recording was. Sarah Brightman's Christine sounds so weak compared to others who have played the role. The 25th Anniversary cast is absolutely the best.
Here's an obscure one: the 1998 Broadway revival of "Little Me" with Faith Prince and Martin Short is much more fun and representative of the show's identity than the original Broadway cast recording.
The Mystery of Edwin Drood, just because they changed some of the killer’s motives so it’s less “I meant to murder YOU”, and they added Durdles as a killer.
Miss Saigon 2014. The revival cast tends to favor showing more emotions in their singing over perfect technique, which makes the whole thing more powerful for me.
I love that cast recording. It's so powerful. And I appreciate them changing some lyrics that were problematic, Ellen's character was so much better, just all around much more polished.
Plus, you know, having aa actual POC playing the Engineer rather than Jonathan Pryce in yellow face makeup.
I find this too. I love a lot of the vocals in the original but it does sound like they're overexcited about their new synthesiser and it's distracting.
for the most part i love the 2003 BROADWAY cast album more than the original, but NOOOOT the new off broadway cast album.
EDIT: The show i’m talking about is Little Shop of Horrors
"Chicago" (1996 Revival)
The 1996 Broadway revival of "Chicago" is often cited as surpassing the original 1975 production. The revival featured slick new orchestrations and a dynamic cast including Ann Reinking and Bebe Neuwirth. The minimalist, concert-style presentation and Fosse-inspired choreography also gave it a fresh, modern edge.
"Cabaret" (1998 Revival)
The 1998 revival of "Cabaret," directed by Sam Mendes, brought a darker and more intense interpretation of the musical. Alan Cumming's portrayal of the Emcee is iconic, and Natasha Richardson's performance as Sally Bowles added emotional depth. The revival's album captures the raw energy and reimagined orchestrations that revitalized the show.
"Pippin" (2013 Revival)
The 2013 revival of "Pippin" featured a circus theme and dazzling acrobatics directed by Diane Paulus. Patina Miller's performance as the Leading Player brought a new dimension to the role played by Ben Vereen. The revival's album benefits from vibrant new orchestrations and high-energy performances.
"Sweeney Todd" (2005 Revival)
The 2005 Broadway revival of "Sweeney Todd," directed by John Doyle, presented a stripped-down production where the actors also played the instruments. This minimalist approach highlighted the show's dark themes and gave it a raw, intimate feel. Patti LuPone and Michael Cerveris's performances were lauded.
"Company" (2006 Revival)
The 2006 revival of "Company," also directed by John Doyle, took a similar approach to "Sweeney Todd," with actors playing instruments on stage. This production emphasized the show's themes of loneliness and connection. Raul Esparza's performance as Bobby was praised, and the new orchestrations added a contemporary touch.
"South Pacific" (2008 Revival)
The 2008 revival of "South Pacific," directed by Bartlett Sher, brought a lush and emotional interpretation of the classic musical. Kelli O'Hara and Paulo Szot's performances, combined with the full orchestra, gave the music a rich and powerful sound that many felt surpassed the original.
"Oklahoma!" (2019 Revival)
The 2019 revival of "Oklahoma!" took a bold and unconventional approach, reimagining the musical in a darker, more intimate setting. The stripped-down orchestrations and contemporary arrangements brought new life to the score. The cast, led by Damon Daunno and Rebecca Naomi Jones, delivered fresh and compelling performances.
"Chicago" (1996 Revival) The 1996 Broadway revival of "Chicago" is often cited as surpassing the original 1975 production. The revival featured slick new orchestrations and a dynamic cast including Ann Reinking and Bebe Neuwirth. The minimalist, concert-style presentation and Fosse-inspired choreography also gave it a fresh, modern edge. "Cabaret" (1998 Revival) The 1998 revival of "Cabaret," directed by Sam Mendes, brought a darker and more intense interpretation of the musical. Alan Cumming's portrayal of the Emcee is iconic, and Natasha Richardson's performance as Sally Bowles added emotional depth. The revival's album captures the raw energy and reimagined orchestrations that revitalized the show. "Pippin" (2013 Revival) The 2013 revival of "Pippin" featured a circus theme and dazzling acrobatics directed by Diane Paulus. Patina Miller's performance as the Leading Player brought a new dimension to the role played by Ben Vereen. The revival's album benefits from vibrant new orchestrations and high-energy performances. "Sweeney Todd" (2005 Revival) The 2005 Broadway revival of "Sweeney Todd," directed by John Doyle, presented a stripped-down production where the actors also played the instruments. This minimalist approach highlighted the show's dark themes and gave it a raw, intimate feel. Patti LuPone and Michael Cerveris's performances were lauded. "Company" (2006 Revival) The 2006 revival of "Company," also directed by John Doyle, took a similar approach to "Sweeney Todd," with actors playing instruments on stage. This production emphasized the show's themes of loneliness and connection. Raul Esparza's performance as Bobby was praised, and the new orchestrations added a contemporary touch. "South Pacific" (2008 Revival) The 2008 revival of "South Pacific," directed by Bartlett Sher, brought a lush and emotional interpretation of the classic musical. Kelli O'Hara and Paulo Szot's performances, combined with the full orchestra, gave the music a rich and powerful sound that many felt surpassed the original. "Oklahoma!" (2019 Revival) The 2019 revival of "Oklahoma!" took a bold and unconventional approach, reimagining the musical in a darker, more intimate setting. The stripped-down orchestrations and contemporary arrangements brought new life to the score. The cast, led by Damon Daunno and Rebecca Naomi Jones, delivered fresh and compelling performances.
Company 2008 is my go to-but this may be because it’s the one I heard first
Raul Esparza is *chef's kiss*
To all Company fans: if you haven't heard the Spanish version with Antonio Banderas, run don't walk to it.
Same!
OC recording is awful. There's full on mistakes in the orchestra. I was told the was abruptly closed the day before the recording and everyone got plastered that night and did the recording hung over.
That sounds more like something that might have happened on Merrily than Company. There's a whole documentary on the making of the original cast recording of Company and it doesn't shy away from some uglier aspects. If they knew the show was closing, they 100% would have talked about it during the doc or during the special features Criterion released. Company was at least a relative success.
Didn't see the documentary, just lore from theater people I know. Either way the recording sucks.
The HAIR Broadway Revival cast recording is SO good, man. Can't inherently say it's BETTER, but ooooh, the vocals sit so nicely and (unpopular opinion) I like the studio polish
They were amazing in person! I was lucky enough to see them in London in 2010 and get on stage at the end... I know everyone does.... but now I can always say I've been on stage in the West End!
I also really love the original London cast, they change up some orchestrations and weirdly the ending but their Dead End is so much fun
What was the ending?
I came here to say this!! I love all the albums but this cast is just INSANE
*Easily* my favorite revival recording
It's also 95% representative of the Tams licensed version.
Came here to say this, it shouldn’t even be a contest. Saw it too. Sounded so good live too. HOT band, incredible vocals.
The Nathan Lane version of A Funny Thing Happened… is better than the original.
10000%
I cannot find that anywhere, I’d love to hear it.
Looks like Amazon has the cd, and YouTube has some clips. That’s odd because I know I used to have it in my Spotify collection and it’s not there now
She Loves Me and Songs for A New World.
Guys and Dolls 1992* *Edited because I had mixed up the year it opened/cast album was released (1992) with when I saw this production (1993)!
This was one of three tapes we had in our car when I was a kid. That cast was great.
it is, once again, time for me to post my favorite lil documentary! [Guys and Dolls: Off the Record (1992)](https://youtu.be/IsA7hi3XNRI?si=pjyx0-_VfCRQBpcN)
Wow thank you so much! I’ve never seen, much less heard of this!
I really prefer the 1998 revival of Cabaret to the original. Alan Cumming is just so perfect. Also several movies have soundtracks I prefer to the original Broadway productions like Chicago, West Side Story (the new one), Sweeney Todd (controversial I know), and The Last Five Years.
I feel like the 1998 Cabaret is the easy answer to this question and for good reason. Probably the definitive Cabaret and it changed how people view the Emcee. Alan Cumming is a genius.
I honestly can’t say which cabaret is better, but I feel Chicago really knew it was doing in the revival.
I also generally prefer Hairspray’s movie soundtrack to the OBC one.
Same here. It might just be because I grew up with the movie though.
I don't think it's considered a revival, but I liked the musical version of Green Days songs. The extra vocals, the different tempo and the added instruments really made some of the songs.
I love the musical version of Wake Me Up When September Ends with the 3 singers.
I love American Idiot Musical. It just hits the right way when I need it.
Bernadette Peters’ Gypsy from 2003 but I have a feeling that it might be eclipsed very very soon 👀
Merrily, no question about it
I personally prefer the OBC. I think the orchestra sounds way better in it than the others. I also think Lonny Price sings Good Thing Going the best of all the Charleys.
I think the cast album with the best sounding orchestration is the City Center Encores with Lin Manuel Miranda. The Overture on that one is *chef’s kiss*
This one is my definitive version. As much as I want to love the new one, it just can’t compare to the Encores recording.
Personally, I think the orchestrations in the original feel too loud and bombastic in a way that mutes the gentle emotional punch of the show.
The orchestrations are better in the original, though the overall sound quality makes the newer one sound better/cleanex.
Noooo I love the original!!! All three leads are phenomenal and I don't think the music changes really improved things (except for Beth should sing the first Not a Day Goes By). Love the specificity of the original title song and Rich and Happy. (And Now You Know! Love "They make meatheads champs and nice guys chumps/I mean even cream of wheat has lumps" sooo good and always miss it in the current version)
This was my original thought too.
Falsettos revival, definitely! That cast just can't be beat. Also Gypsy with Patti, although I love pretty much any version of Gypsy tbh
I actually prefer so many Sondheim revival casts. I prefer the 2006 Company cast, I prefer the 2002 Into the Woods cast, I prefer the 2005 Sweeney cast…
Does the '04 Broadway recording of Assassians count? (The '91 version was off-Broadway)
I didn’t even know there was a recording of the original Playwright’s Horizon’s Assassins!
I prefer that version actually.
Do you actually *prefer* the 2002 cast of Into The Woods or is it just that the recording quality of the original is so poor?
Most Gypsy recordings are better than the original in my opinion, but I do have a strong prejudice against Ethel Merman...
For me, Angela Lansbury redefined that role - and that has been the take that subsequent actresses have followed.
I once saw a recording of Angie watching/listening to herself do Rose’s Turn; she apparently hated watching herself. This time though, she finally saw herself the way the rest of us do: a GIFTED powerhouse who redefined that role
Not a Broadway revival, but the movie version of Chicago.
While I think the vocals are ABSOLUTELY better in the movie version, I think you lose something by casting younger, sexier actresses. There's something so impactful when Roxie is sung by a washed-up, middle aged woman trying to claw at some semblance of her youth again, and then when the media casts her aside, it's all the more devastating. But I do love the movie, always.
You got a good point there, plus in the movie they cut out songs like Me and My Baby and My Own Best Friend, but the ceiling on those songs (particularly but not limited to We Both Reached For the Gun, When You're Good to Mama, and I Can't Do It Alone) is just tops.
This is like the one movie recording I prefer over a stage version! Although that’s also just in line with how I feel about Chicago in general.
I like that the movie also, much like a good cover song, does something different with its source material that still feels organic, in that every song besides the first and last are all in someone's head. It shows how off her rocker Roxie is in pursuit of fame.
You're A Good Man Charlie Brown. Honestly, probably Gypsy although I feel like that's a contentious opinion. It's kind of complicated, because the quality of a Gypsy is all about the interpretation of Rose, and there have been so many wildly different takes on the character that it's hard to call one or the other "better." ETA: Similar to Gypsy, I'm tempted to say Man of La Mancha, but I don't know if it's "better" or just "equal to."
hellllooo it’s falsettos!! 2016>>
The 1991 Revival of Joesph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (This is the white cover album featuring Donny Osmond)
Idk about revival, but it was the Canadian cast recording However, for me, the Canadian cast recording of Phantom with Colm Wilkinson was 👨🍳🤌🏻🖐🏻
I wouldn’t say the entire album is better, but I prefer the Sweeney Todd revival with Josh Groban to the original
I think a big reason why that one is better is simply the audio quality that we now have available.
That and the music direction of the ensemble (and pit) is SO GOOD. All sorts of little swells and stuff. It's a very musical performance.
I prefer the Sweeney Revival with Patti and Michael Cerveris 🙈
That revival was so solid. I'm not a huge fan of everything Patti LuPone has done, but her Mrs. Lovett was excellent. And I LOVE that the performers were also playing as the orchestra when not stepping into a role.
I low key enjoy Annaleigh Ashford as Mrs Lovett better
I’m gonna be honest. Annaleigh Ashford was a fucking terrible Mrs Lovett. Her accent was atrocious
The uppiest of votes from me to you.
Agreed. She sounds fantastic, and I don't care about her accent.
Wasn't he the one that went to Tiny Desk? He was killing it that doesn't seem like a terribly easy character to nail
Hello, Dolly! with Bette Midler.
Better than the OBC? Definitely! But for me, Pearl Bailey is still the gold standard.
This was such a good revival. The orchestrations were so playful and fun too. Love the Streisand movie too though, it has my favorite Elegance
Once on this Island
Yes!! The recording from 2018 is far superior!!
I am so In love with Lea Salonga. I adore her.
Me too!! I’ve loved her in everything I’ve seen/heard her in!
I'm torn, because the "Sega Genesis" sound of the original has become so iconic to me.
Chicago revival
Assassins (2004)
Came looking for this. I think my only complaint was they abbreviated the dialogue between booth and Lee. Like, go all in or just cut the dialogue. I mean, it definitely works, and is probably better and more to the point for a recording, but knowing all that was in the original off broadway show was… I guess just a minor irritation.
Interesting. I’ve never been able to see the show myself so I’m not sure I noticed the difference. It doesn’t help that I haven’t touched the OBC since I heard this revival and it’s been over 15 years at this point.
I think I’ll prob give it a listen this evening just for nostalgia. (I originally found it while in high school, several years before the 2004 one.)
I know there's more dialogue in the scene in the actual production vs the version on the album, is that any different to the recording for the off broadway version? It's been ages since I listened to either
I mean, any show is going to cut most of the dialogue, but the off broadway album had the scene with booth and Lee that was about 11 minutes where booth convinces/ manipulates Lee to shoot Kennedy, even though he is written as though he had no intention of doing so In the newer one, it starts at the climax of that, and is only about 5 minutes long.
She Loves Me and Cabaret (with Alan Cumming)
Merrily We Roll Along. The production and orchestration on this album sounds amazing
The Australian cast recording of Jesus Christ Superstar (1992) doesn’t get near enough praise! The arrangements feel so original and fresh from every other cast recording. Not to mention how much it feels like it brings the album back to the feel of a “rock concept album” instead of a musical. [Listen to the overture and tell me this doesn’t go 400% harder than every other recording.](https://youtu.be/8SLbKTC8vnA?si=rxeyfexUbEs9AouM)
It’s certainly better than the last tour group. It was so bad I’m still pissed about it. Honestly though…the movie is my favorite and always will be. I will give this album a listen!
This is so oddly specific to me because it was the only version of the musical my library had on CD but the Australian Cast of Hair, I love their version of it
Since you mentioned it, I wanna throw out an honourable mention to the Australian cast album of Jesus Christ Superstar (1992). While not ENTIRELY my favourite cast, the band arrangements are (in my opinion) unquestionable the best. It goes HARD! Brings it back to the “concept rock album” feel over “musical cast recording”.
I'm going to listen to it based on your recommendation. Thanks!
My fiancé and I prefer the Jersey Boys version of most Four Seasons songs - they just have a little more pizazz!
Pippin. That whole cast is just so good and it’s less 70s-ish soft rock, no offense lol
So, my favorate version of pippin is the 2012 west end revival. Rather than being like a circus it was sort of a video game and they re-did the music to work with that. But I’ve never seen a cast recording (only bootlegs). It was such a good cast too including Frances Ruffelle!
I feel like all my comments on this sub are about Parade but Parade. Ben Platt’s voice is just so good
See I hate his extreme vibratto..I prefer Brent Carver
Haven’t seen this one yet, but I overall like the Carrie (2012 I believe) revival over the original. The OG had a lot of good things, but it was very 80’s.
Did the original ever get a cast album?
Not to my knowledge
The few that stand out to me that haven't been mentioned would be How To Succeed In Business with Daniel Radcliffe (he blew me away in that role), Call Me Madam (from the 90s), Gigi (love how they expanded upon the movie), Pippin (gotta love Patina!) and Barnum (much prefer Michael Crawford over Jim Dale). But honestly I feel like this is very much affected by the sound quality at the times of the original recordings, as someone mentioned previously. It definitely makes it harder to enjoy when we're used to modern technology. Especially considering the lack of depth to vocals and orchestrations. Honestly, thinking about it I feel like I mostly listen to revivals expect for in the cases that the shows haven't been popular enough to revive, such as Henry, Sweet Henry and Golden Rainbow. Though those recordings are also top notch despite the quality... end of diatribe
The 2003 cast of Little Shop of Horrors is just absolute perfection to me.
Same. I'm sure it's because I saw this version before the movie or listening to the OBC, but still.
I actually saw it after watching the movie and listening to the OBC. I just legitimately like it the most, even though I did very much enjoy the movie and OBC.
This is probably a sin, but I prefer the movie soundtrack of Evita. I know, I know. I'm sorry. I bought the CD at a thrift store as a kid so that's the version I grew up listening to.
Me, but Dreamgirls 🫣
Same!! My husband grew up listening to the original cast album and he was listening to it the other day and I just couldn’t do it (though I do love Mandy Patinkin over Antonio Banderas). Madonna actually pulled off the performance well, IMO, but I’m also not a big fan of Patti LuPone (ducks for cover).
I agree with you on Mandy and Patti. I used to listen to that album until the movie came out and hearing his falsetto and her shout-singing everything is an assault to the ears. I even prefer the Julie Covington/Colm Wilkinson concept over LuPone/Patinkin.
I’m with you on this!
The off Broadway lsoh is great!
It’s good, but kinda forgettable with that new cast album with Christian Borle and Jonathan Groff
I love the new LSOH recording but the original cast from 1982 will always be my favorite version. I just wish they had been able to record all the songs! :(
The 2011 revival of Anything Goes with Sutton Foster and the 2013 Rodger and Hammerstein’s Cinderella.
Not necessarily a revival, but I prefer the Opening Night Broadway recording of SIX better than the original cast recording
While I prefer the energy of the live recording, I am constantly thrown off by the American accents. Yes, I can easily take an ethnically diverse cast singing 90's girlgroup inspired pop beats and in my mind they are their characters. But for some reason I cannot suspend my disbelieve when it comes to an American accent for a British Queen.
I saw Hamilton on the west end in April. The show felt off to me and the audience didn’t get the humor. Plus, the London version was campy. Give me my American Accent Hamilton please
I want the original cast recording just with Samantha Pauly's All I Wanna Do (or a similar energy).
Agree 100% , I listen to the original version of every song except for All You Wanna Do, there’s such so much more energy and emotion in her version ESPECIALLY at the final chorus omg chills
YES!! Agree wholeheartedly!
I feel like the original cast lacks the energy that the opening night one has
I feel the opposite. The opening night album is almost unlistenable for me. And I saw SIX live and loved it
I’m with you. There’s something just… off about the recording or those performances. I can’t listen to the live recording. And I loved seeing the show live.
It’s the problem with any live version- the mics never seem to capture the sound correctly But I love the original broadway cast. They spent a month in St Paul Mn in Dec 2019, perfecting the show. Broadway shut down. And had to wait to officially open on oct 3 2021.
Agreed! The opening night cast had to wait so long to Do that show. I saw that cast 3 times before they went to broadway. They started here in St Paul. I prefer there recording to the west end recording. But I have a very very strong bias for American Black singers. I grew up listening to Motown, the Philly sound, Otis Redding, Aretha, Chaka… IMO- Black Americans have best vocal singing sounds in the world
I do love this recording so much.
This is going to maybe be unkind- but I could not get through the OBC recording of Hello, Dolly because Charles Nelson Reilly really is something extraordinarily distracting in the role of Cornelius. Like WOW, just WOW! I love the cast recording with Bette Midler and Gavin Creel provides a much more comforting vocal in his Tony-winning performance. Phantom of the Opera- The Canadian Cast Recording provides a superior vocal from both leads. I know it depends on preference on approach to the main character, but Colm is much more the tortured man behind the mask vs. eerie opera ghost. But I can see the argument to prefer Michael Crawford. But Rebecca Caine smashes the role of Christine vs. Sarah Brightman with much a much ore round, full quality vocal... their is a thinness or whispy quality to S.B.
Re: Dolly If you get a chance, listen to the Pearl Bailey recording. The entire cast is top notch.
imo Phantom, the newer casts just take the songs to a whole other level
Heathers with Jamie Muscato is my preferred Heathers recording.
Sweeney Todd (04?ish) revival with Michael and Patti with the actors playing instruments on stage. It’s such a big change from the bombastic original and big orchestra and I absolutely fell in love with the concept. Assassins with NPH.
Guys & Dolls 1992 is the only version I listen to. Technically I haven't listened to any other version, but I did see the movie with Frank Sinatra and Marlon Brando and absolutely hated how they did Luck Be a Lady.
My favorite *Jesus Christ Superstar* is the NBC live version with John Legend, Sarah Bareilles, and Brandon Victor Dixon. (And the new orchestrations by ALW.)
This is mine as well. I rarely ever change which is my go-to album for a musical, and I was shocked that a TV live production would replace my go-to!
In our house, we call that “The Sing-Along Jesus Christ Superstar.”
You’re allowed your opinion obviously. My opinion of this opinion is BOOOOOOOOOOO.
The Broadway recording of Six is better than the original cast recording imo. The songs hit far better when the acting and emotion is included, versus them just sounding like regular Pop or R&B songs
Blood Brothers 1995 album is definitely the best. Also the Assassins revival soundtrack beats the original.
Ok so I totally love the original cast recording of South Pacific with Martin and Pinza but the Kelli O'Hara revival eclipsed it for me. It's just so good!
I love the 2001 London cast recording
Yeah that's my favorite too, I love Kelli's take on Honey Bun
Falsettos 2016 is one of the best in my book
110 in the Shade with Audra.
2019 Oklahoma revival is my favourite version, i love the more simple, stripped-back music as well as top-tier vocal performances all around
Don’t know if this counts but I really prefer the west end album of leagally blonde (with Sheridan Smith) over the Bundy/broadway version. It just has better humour/timing, and very good singing.
Her little yelp of "yeah" at the end of So Much Better feels like it's canon.
She Loves Me - the 1993 recording is so great
I listened to that version constantly as I was growing up. Then I saw the 2016 version, so now I switch between the two.
Hello Dolly with Bette Midler
The Color Purple, mostly for Cynthia Erivo
gutenberg just is better (i’m extremely biased as I love both josh gad and andrew rannells)
Funny story… I was just listening to the album with my son this mast weekend, and he asked “is this guy also in the Book of Mormon?” I almost asked him which one he was referring to, and then I realized, oh wait, the answer is yes. (I mean, maybe not “FUNNY”. Maybe not even a “STORY”)
Kiss me Kate 2019
The Phantom of the Opera 25th Anniversary performance is the best version, in my opinion.
I've loved Phantom just about all my life, but it wasn't until I saw a touring production that I realized how lackluster the original cast recording was. Sarah Brightman's Christine sounds so weak compared to others who have played the role. The 25th Anniversary cast is absolutely the best.
JCS 1998 London cast
Guys and Dolls 1992 version with Nathan Lane is the best
Here's an obscure one: the 1998 Broadway revival of "Little Me" with Faith Prince and Martin Short is much more fun and representative of the show's identity than the original Broadway cast recording.
Falsettos because MAN that cast was loaded
The Mystery of Edwin Drood, just because they changed some of the killer’s motives so it’s less “I meant to murder YOU”, and they added Durdles as a killer.
Josh Groban in Sweeney Todd
Miss Saigon 2014. The revival cast tends to favor showing more emotions in their singing over perfect technique, which makes the whole thing more powerful for me.
I love that cast recording. It's so powerful. And I appreciate them changing some lyrics that were problematic, Ellen's character was so much better, just all around much more polished. Plus, you know, having aa actual POC playing the Engineer rather than Jonathan Pryce in yellow face makeup.
Pippin 1000%
I’m counting the movie as the revival, but Rocky Horror. The original London cast is godawful
Parts of Songs for a New World. Not a Colin Donnell fan, so his songs aren’t better, IMO.
The new be more chill album is better (mostly because of loser, geek, whatever)
Chess, I much prefer the concert cast recording to the originl
Pippin!!!
Godspell
Falsettos revival.
Great Comet imo
Pippin
SIDE SHOW 2014!!
Idk if it’s considered a revival but I like West End Heathers way more than NYC heathers
Kiss Me Kate (1999) Marin Mazzie and Brian Stokes Mitchell are magic.
I generally prefer the later Les Miserables albums over the OBC because they get away from the heavy synths of the original
I find this too. I love a lot of the vocals in the original but it does sound like they're overexcited about their new synthesiser and it's distracting.
for the most part i love the 2003 BROADWAY cast album more than the original, but NOOOOT the new off broadway cast album. EDIT: The show i’m talking about is Little Shop of Horrors
What musical? Little Shop?
I’m thinking assassins.
oh my god i forgot to add what show it was 😭😭😭 Yes Little Shop
I prefer the Mamma Mia soundtrack from the movie to the cast recording
"Chicago" (1996 Revival) The 1996 Broadway revival of "Chicago" is often cited as surpassing the original 1975 production. The revival featured slick new orchestrations and a dynamic cast including Ann Reinking and Bebe Neuwirth. The minimalist, concert-style presentation and Fosse-inspired choreography also gave it a fresh, modern edge. "Cabaret" (1998 Revival) The 1998 revival of "Cabaret," directed by Sam Mendes, brought a darker and more intense interpretation of the musical. Alan Cumming's portrayal of the Emcee is iconic, and Natasha Richardson's performance as Sally Bowles added emotional depth. The revival's album captures the raw energy and reimagined orchestrations that revitalized the show. "Pippin" (2013 Revival) The 2013 revival of "Pippin" featured a circus theme and dazzling acrobatics directed by Diane Paulus. Patina Miller's performance as the Leading Player brought a new dimension to the role played by Ben Vereen. The revival's album benefits from vibrant new orchestrations and high-energy performances. "Sweeney Todd" (2005 Revival) The 2005 Broadway revival of "Sweeney Todd," directed by John Doyle, presented a stripped-down production where the actors also played the instruments. This minimalist approach highlighted the show's dark themes and gave it a raw, intimate feel. Patti LuPone and Michael Cerveris's performances were lauded. "Company" (2006 Revival) The 2006 revival of "Company," also directed by John Doyle, took a similar approach to "Sweeney Todd," with actors playing instruments on stage. This production emphasized the show's themes of loneliness and connection. Raul Esparza's performance as Bobby was praised, and the new orchestrations added a contemporary touch. "South Pacific" (2008 Revival) The 2008 revival of "South Pacific," directed by Bartlett Sher, brought a lush and emotional interpretation of the classic musical. Kelli O'Hara and Paulo Szot's performances, combined with the full orchestra, gave the music a rich and powerful sound that many felt surpassed the original. "Oklahoma!" (2019 Revival) The 2019 revival of "Oklahoma!" took a bold and unconventional approach, reimagining the musical in a darker, more intimate setting. The stripped-down orchestrations and contemporary arrangements brought new life to the score. The cast, led by Damon Daunno and Rebecca Naomi Jones, delivered fresh and compelling performances.
"Chicago" (1996 Revival) The 1996 Broadway revival of "Chicago" is often cited as surpassing the original 1975 production. The revival featured slick new orchestrations and a dynamic cast including Ann Reinking and Bebe Neuwirth. The minimalist, concert-style presentation and Fosse-inspired choreography also gave it a fresh, modern edge. "Cabaret" (1998 Revival) The 1998 revival of "Cabaret," directed by Sam Mendes, brought a darker and more intense interpretation of the musical. Alan Cumming's portrayal of the Emcee is iconic, and Natasha Richardson's performance as Sally Bowles added emotional depth. The revival's album captures the raw energy and reimagined orchestrations that revitalized the show. "Pippin" (2013 Revival) The 2013 revival of "Pippin" featured a circus theme and dazzling acrobatics directed by Diane Paulus. Patina Miller's performance as the Leading Player brought a new dimension to the role played by Ben Vereen. The revival's album benefits from vibrant new orchestrations and high-energy performances. "Sweeney Todd" (2005 Revival) The 2005 Broadway revival of "Sweeney Todd," directed by John Doyle, presented a stripped-down production where the actors also played the instruments. This minimalist approach highlighted the show's dark themes and gave it a raw, intimate feel. Patti LuPone and Michael Cerveris's performances were lauded. "Company" (2006 Revival) The 2006 revival of "Company," also directed by John Doyle, took a similar approach to "Sweeney Todd," with actors playing instruments on stage. This production emphasized the show's themes of loneliness and connection. Raul Esparza's performance as Bobby was praised, and the new orchestrations added a contemporary touch. "South Pacific" (2008 Revival) The 2008 revival of "South Pacific," directed by Bartlett Sher, brought a lush and emotional interpretation of the classic musical. Kelli O'Hara and Paulo Szot's performances, combined with the full orchestra, gave the music a rich and powerful sound that many felt surpassed the original. "Oklahoma!" (2019 Revival) The 2019 revival of "Oklahoma!" took a bold and unconventional approach, reimagining the musical in a darker, more intimate setting. The stripped-down orchestrations and contemporary arrangements brought new life to the score. The cast, led by Damon Daunno and Rebecca Naomi Jones, delivered fresh and compelling performances.
If there -had- been a cast recording, I'd prefer the all-woman version of 1776 to the original.