In addition she has already released two solo albums. Back to Paradise was not only a daring survey of modern musical theater composers, but a best seller. McDonald justly pays special attention to Arlen, a contemporary of Irving Berlin, Richard Rodgers, and Cole Porter, and five of the fourteen tracks on the album feature music Arlen's music and some of McDonald's most joyous singing. McDonald sings these often times sugary songs with a sweet simplicity and a natural ease that is utterly beguiling. Comfortable in the operatic and the musical theater realms, McDonald retains tight control of her emotions and avoids slipping into overly indulgent interpretations.
Contemporary songs round out the rest of the album.
As enjoyable and impressive as How Glory Goes is, one can't help but miss the excitement and the edge of Way Back to Paradise . After witnessing the immense dramatic and vocal abilities of McDonald, one hopes that she will continue to explore the works of classic and contemporary composers, both inside and outside of the musical theater realm. As indicated by her work thus far, Audra McDonald is sure to dazzle and impress whatever path she chooses to explore next. This story was published on Friday, June 2, 2000. Read other stories in this issue.