Which is entirely unfair, and typical of the way some of us pigeonhole shows before they're heard. And I loved "Over Here!" -- the Shermans' songs are infectious and wonderful -- and saw it on B'way.
But this score is just a complex and very thoughtful piece of work, never settling for mere pastiche, despite a few echoes and cues to help locate the era. The score folds in traditional musical theater songs that expand its melodic and emotional range. I was besotted with it once I heard "Right This Way" and "Welcome Home." But now I appreciate all of it. The I Want song, "Donny Novitski" is just a wonderful intro to the protagonist -- and to my untrained ear, a tough sing, making Cott's performance that much more impressive. That's where he starts every night, a song that has the weight and reach of a second act epiphany. |
