t has been a unique recording trek for composer Sir Elton John's first original stage score, "Elaborate Lives: The Legend of Aida" now simply titled "Aida". The fun started with the star-studded promotional studio cast album released in 1999 and its advance promo, three-track CD with John and Leann Rimes performing two alternate versions of "Written In The Stars" (not released on the studio album). This was followed by an unofficial composers' demo CD culled from John's studio takes to illustrate his studio cast album. Now, one year later, the original Broadway cast recording arrives: "AIDA": (Buena Vista Records -- time: 70:18).
Theater pundits wondered aloud, after John and Rice's sweeping stage success with The Lion King, how he would fare writing his first original stage score from scratch. Did winning the 2000 Tony Award for "Best Original Score" answer those questions? Well, not exactly. This semi-rock score has prompted heated debate amongst the traditionalists and the new guard of the musical theater format. However, this cast recording reaffirms how essential Ms. Headley's Tony Award winning performance was for the success of Aida. You'll find yourself listening more than once to her superb solos on "Easy As Life" and "The Past is Another Land" and duets with Adam Pascal on "Written In The Stars" and "Enchantment Passing Through." Pascal equals Headley's vocal prowess during his solo turn on "Elaborate Lives." It's a fact I missed in the theater because I was distracted by his acting abilities -- which did not measure up to his Rent debut.
Last but not least is Sherie Scott, who, since her last cast album of Tommy, has acquired the middle name of Rene. Sherie naturally excels in her comedic song "My Strongest Suit" but really shows her potential in her quiet performance of "I Know The Truth." Remove the visual distractions of lighting, costumes, choreography and performers, and one will notice some of the shortcomings of this score. But let me point out that I believe Sir John is finally getting the hang of how to write for a book musical. A prime example is Elton's superb melody for "How I Know You," which could have been used for a showcase number but instead is used in the score to advance the storyline of a slave's recognition of his Princess.
If you are not a fan of Elton John's commercial pop music, then Aida's score may be a hard listen for you -- but you will be selling yourself short this time. The Elton John-Tim Rice partnership so far has garnered one Oscar and one Tony Award for song and score. Aida is their third collaboration (The Lion King, "El Dorado") and second for the stage. Let us hope that these gentlemen will return again.
