CYNDI LAUPER
AT LAST
NOVEMBER 18, 2003
So excited to rip this one into the mp3 player and get to hear CYNDI LAUPER's version of these classics. The title track "At Last" had the opening feeling as expected but things began to detour quickly away from what was imbedded in my brain from years of listening to the original version. After the first line the only thing holding me to the song was Lauper's amazing voice because it seemed slower and darker than versions that came before. The ending showcased her smooth vocals that keep audiences coming to her shows even if she does not have a new release.
"Stay" is a great version with the sounds of the Caribbean flowing with a very up-beat rhythm balancing the foundation. This allows the trumpets to build the momentum and bringing the visualization of the beaches along the ocean. The continuity gets lost as some of the slower songs that are placed in between the powerful up-beat songs are way to slow. They are more theatrical episodes instead of great remakes that will get the listener intrigued.
When the listener gets to tracks 8 and 9 then you really get to know where Lauper's heart lies. "My Baby just Cares for Me" drops some headlining names like: Jennifer Aniston, George Clooney and Queen Latifah which modernizes this classic from the 1928 film WHOOPEE!. She does a fabulous job vocally leaving some of her own unique style and becoming one with the original. This is followed by the best track on the album "Makin' Whoopee" a duet with TONY BENNETT and they seem to be having fun enjoying the recording process which comes across in the final product. Bennett definitely keeps the track loyal to the original. Lauper's voice is smooth fun and flawless and her play with Tony will make the listener smile.
Then comes a rash of slow songs that seem even slower than the originals but Lauper ends the album with a very vibrant version of Dorothy Fields/Jimmy McHugh's "On the Sunny Side of the Street". It gives such a lift to the album that it actually makes you want to do it again.
This album definitely has its flaws and lacks consistancy but the best tracks will keep the listener coming back for another try.
11/18/03