Over There (Michael Feinstein, vocals; Armen Guzelimian, piano; EMI).
Regardless of how one regards Michael Feinstein`s voice-and opinion remains divided-there is no denying the power of Feinstein`s latest recording. Feinstein has selected a fascinating mix of theater and cabaret pieces from 1900-1920. Subtitled ”Songs of War and Peace,” the disc ranges from the ruddy optimisim of George M. Cohan`s ”Over There” to the sweet phrases of Irving Berlin`s ”Keep the Home Fires Burning.”
The recording also ventures into early cabaret songs by Arnold Schoenberg (which revel in steamy harmonies) and three masterful songs by a young Kurt Weill never before recorded.
Taken as a whole, this repertoire evokes a turn-of-the-century nostalgia as well as a pungent cynicism for the dark times ahead.
Feinstein`s vocals are occasionally a bit arch. Yet, on repeated listenings, the warmth and intensity of his performance seem to suit the repertoire well. (Reviewed on CD.)
