Stephen Schwartz, Stephen Nathan, Robin Lamont - Godspell

Jesus was a pretty popular guy in New York in 1971; as the ersatz star of both Godspell and Jesus Christ Superstar. If Superstar was a little dark, Godspell was positively frothy; and its portrayal of Jesus as a hippie clown was part of its goofy charm. Another part was Stephen Schwartz's nifty score; a little naive and dated, but also as hummable as anything in history. Slap this in the CD player and be transported back in time to an era when kids were all singing "We Beseech Thee," "Prepare Ye the Way of The Lord" and, of course, the cheery "Day by Day." I'm guessing they don't do these in folk mass anymore. --Michael Ruby Amazon.com

Great music!!

I just saw a new production of "Godspell" with an updated script (minus the original "Clown Theme") at a local theatre. I forgot how much I liked the music as I hadn't seen the musical in years. I ordered the CD right when I got home from the show!! November 5, 2007

The genuine original

This is the genuine original, the only Godspell album that really ought to carry that distinction. It is not a sophisticated recording nor is the cast polished and experienced. Most of the cast is first and second year drama school students so voices are a touch thin and untrained. Listening with headphones reveals thumps often picked up from the piano microphone and other uncontrolled audio aspects. Instrumentation is basic with piano, Hammond M3 organ, acoustic, electric and bass guitar, drums and other percussion. It is not a problem however and adds to the charm and realism of the performance. As for where to peg it music wise I can't say it's Christian Rock, I find most Christian Rock is overly produced, slick and corporate and lacks soul and emotion. Godspell has a closer similarity to a good old Rock Opera with doses of folk mixed in. Lest one forget that we were freshly out of the 60's so it has many musical earmarks of that era. This recording of Godspell has vibrancy and energy that the later recordings of the musical seems to lack. Compare for example `All For The Best' on the 71' verses the London 93' version.

I am biased a bit; I grew up with this version. Not to mention have seen it performed at my childhood Presbyterian Church many times and I know the melodies, instrumentation and lyrics by heart. June 11, 2007

It is dated- but good to remember

I listened with fondness in the 70's and part of the 80's untl cassette wore off.

I agree with the reviewer who said it sounds dated, it does.. and there is a lot of nostalgia in that, like remebering when in mass you could sing day-by-day.. its songs may not be as impressive as Superstar, but they are more ctachy and melodical.. All the willows there is a great song, not too sad or tragic...

It was only late in the 80's when I had the chance to see the movie, and I was not that impressed, though I admitt it was original. May 14, 2007

Moving Music

Godspell takes a while to grow on you, but once it does you won't go away disappointed. The musical that made "Day By Day" famous is light, inspirational and a good way to make your day. March 9, 2007

Got what I wanted

The item I ordered is the item I received. It's hard to go wrong with a particular CD that you want. Had I ordered the American Cast CD and received the London cast CD, then I would not have been happy. But I got what I wanted, so I am happy! March 8, 2007

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