The King and I

There are two reasons to have this recording, the inclusion of a lot of 'extra' music (from the motion picture, in fabulous orchestrations) and the ever wonderful Juie Andrews, who can do little wrong in my books. She is, to use one of her own lines (in a different role), practically perfect in every way.I'm not so sure about the rest of the cast, and they are the reason why I can't give this five stars. There is something altogether too 'try hard' about everyone's contributions. Ben Kingsley does what he can with the King (he has hardly anything to do in terms of actually singing, or sing-speaking), but has adopted a strange fruity quasi- Asian accent that is funny in completely the wrong way. I have issues with Lea Salonga's Tuptim (too 'new musical'), Peabo Bryson's Lun Tha (too 'pop') and Marilyn Horne's Lady Thiang (too operatic, and as she often is, bizarrely baritonal). Even Roger Moore's cough abd a spit as Anna's old flame Sir Edward Ramsey is overdone.It is such a pity that this recording doesn't quite work, but to have Julie Andrews as Anna, I can forgive much, if not all. If I sing the songs in my head, the voices I hear are those from the film (including the marvellous, underrated and uncredited Marni Nixon). I think the soundtrack recording, despite not having as much music on it, may actually be the 'library choice' for this show.

This is an excellent recording and quuite different from the film LP which most are more familiar with. It has the full musical score of songs and underscoring. Its quite good to hear the different voices rather than the familiar ones we are also so used to as from the film version. I love this album and play it often....besides Dame Julie and Sir Ben there is the added attraction of some other well known voices including the great Lea Salonga, the girl who was the original "MISS SAIGON". This is now deleted from most high street stores so get it while you can from Amazon...its well worth treating yourself if you are a lover of musicals and want to hear something a little different.

Whilst browsing Youtube I came across the documentary program about the making of this album. Since I liked what I heard I bought the CD. The mature Julie voice is a perfect fit for Anna's (in my imagination anyway) and I prefer it to Marni's imitation accent. What can be better than the real thing?

I already have CDs of the 1951 original cast with Gertrude Lawrence, the 1964 studio recording with Barbara Cook and the 1977 Broadway revival with Constance Towers. This 1992 studio cast is the best recording of the musical score and Julie Andrews is perfect in the role of Anna. CD arrived as scheduled and as described.

Excellent deal and prompt delivery thanks

Excellent recording by Julie Andrews and Ben Kingsley.

item arrived safely in perfect condition

No problems.