Windflowers: The Songs of Jerome Moross
You're forgiven if the nameJerome Morossdoesn't ring any bells. But even if your familiarity stretches past his film scores or the jazzy standard "Lazy Afternoon" from 1954'sThe Golden Apple, you might still be surprised by the variety of riches to be found onWindflowers. This collaboration between producer Tommy Krasker and the composer's daughter unearthed mostly unknown songs from such shows asBallet BalladsandUnderworld(John Latoucheand John Hollander are the most frequent lyricists), and this cast and seven-piece ensemble staged it as a cabaret show in early 2000.Richard Muenzgets things going with the easy swinger "Beer and Flowers,"Jessica Molaskeyhandles the jazzy stuff (including "Lazy Afternoon"),Philip Chaffintakes the boy-tenor songs,Alice Ripleycovers everything from the tender title tune to the rueful "Forget Me Not,"Jenny Gieringsings ballads beautifully, and even pianist-music director Eric Stern sings and plays the barrelhouse "Baby's Gonna Shake It."  Perhaps best of all, the cast shares duets and quartets and backs each other up, providing a sense of joyful ensemble.--David Horiuchi