This is a wonderful 2 CD compilation charting two momentous and fascinating periods in Judy's life. The first CD offers a selection of Judy's duets with various performers recorded during her TV shows in the early 1960's - it is just fantastic to listen to Judy joke and sing with her contemporaries and friends. Highlights for me included: (1) The "Get Happy/Happy Day's are here Again" combination she sings with the then 21 year old Barbra Streisand (fresh from her success as "Funny Girl"). Their friendly banter which follows about how much they 'hate' each other is pure joy! (2) Judy's rendition of "The Trolley Song" is as usual fantastic, only this time it is interspersed with comedic commentary from Mel Torme and includes an unforgettable and quite literally breathtaking ending! (3) Judy's teaming with fellow legends Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin is also celebrated with their version of "You're Nobody Till Somebody Loves You". (Handy Hint #1: buy the video of this remarkable one-hour CBS special, filmed in 1963, and watch Judy sparkle and shine, making even Sinatra and Martin appear superfluous to requirements) (4) The last duet on the play list includes a selection of songs with her 17 year old daughter, Liza Minnelli - it is quite strange to hear a young Liza, her voice not yet fully matured and, hence, rather outclassed by her Mama. Unfortunately, I've never seen any episodes of "The Judy Garland Show", but am aware that it attracted some negative press with back-stage problems, delays and dismissals. But listening to Judy and her guests dispels such rumours and makes me realise just how good it really must have been!But if you think CD 1 is good, wait till you hear CD 2 - it's a revelation! Recorded in February 1952, it consists of Judy's final live performance at the famous Palace Theatre in New York following her triumphant come-back and record breaking run which kick-started her 'second' show biz career after her break from MGM. I've frequently read that Judy was attacked by almost apoplectic nerve attacks before her live performances. No evidence of it here - her Palace performance is charm, naturalness and charisma in their purest form - she is simply extraordinary! You've no doubt heard about Judy's sense of humour, love of laughter and self-deprecating wit. Well, it is here for you on full display - the way she chats and jokes with the audience is wonderful and when she sings her voice is sweet and melodious (more so, in my opinion, than Carnegie Hall - her other famous concert recording). My own personal highlights included the "Olio Medley", "A Pretty Girl Milking Her Cow" (dedicated to Sid Luft) and, of course, "Over The Rainbow". The audience did not want Judy to leave and neither will you. If you do one thing this year, get this CD. (Handy Hint #2: buy a good pair of headphones, plug yourself into the Palace and Get Happy with Judy!!) |
