It's Barbara Cook, probably the best female singer of this generation. Forget her age. If she's lost a step, you'd hardly notice. Her delivery, especially accenting the lyrics, in unmatchable. A total joy.
Still singing...:
Yes,it is the case that Ms. Cook still carries a tune, but the voice exhibits a remarkable decline in range and timbre. I can accept that. This CD, on the other hand, is rather static. There is no real excitment in the range of songs or in the emotions they portray. In short, it's not a CD that's a keeper.
Like fine wine.....:
Ms. Cook simply gets better with age. While I'm sure she still misses her beloved Wally Harper, her long-time music director, her new collaboration with Mr. Musiker (perfect name!) is every bit as wonderful to listen to. At an age where most women's voices simply lose it, Ms. Cook, in her 70s, has developed a warmth and silkiness to her sound. There are places when one can still here the young coloratura soprano in her 20s behind the more sultry and inviting tones of the current Barbara Cook. I... more info
A must have!:
Still sounding wonderful, after all these years. The booklet also contains some of the most beautiful photos of this beautiful lady. A great selection of songs
Tracks:
There's a Rainbow 'Round My Shoulder - Barbara Cook, Jolson, Al
Where or When - Barbara Cook, Rodgers, Richard
Cookin' Breakfast for the One I Love - Barbara Cook, Rose, Billy
He Loves and She Loves - Barbara Cook, Gershwin, George
Lucky to Be Me - Barbara Cook, Bernstein, Leonard
If I Ever Say I'm Over You - Barbara Cook, Bucchino, John
Sooner or Later - Barbara Cook, Wolcott, Charles
I'm Through with Love/Smile - Barbara Cook, Kahn, Gus
Love Is Good for Anything That Ails You - Barbara Cook, Friend, Cliff
I'm Gonna Sit Right Down and Write Myself a Letter/I Wish I Could Forge - Barbara Cook, Ahlert, Fred
Harbour - Barbara Cook, Allen, Peter
Old Devil Moon - Barbara Cook, Lane, Burton
Lost in the Stars/No More - Barbara Cook, Weill, Kurt
Hallelujah, I Love Him So - Barbara Cook, Charles, Ray