It Started With A Dream
Unlike what happens in the pop field, where singer-songwriters are far from uncommon, few musical-theater writers and composers ever step to the mike. There are exceptions, of course: Noel Coward, Harold Arlen, and nowCy Coleman. Coleman is responsible for some of Broadway's swingiest, punchiest, most energetic scores (Sweet Charitymay well be his masterpiece). But don't expect "Big Spender" here. Coleman set out to explore the more obscure corners of his catalogue, so this means the likes of "Somebody," which was supposed to be recorded by Pearl Bailey but wasn't, and "Meat and Potatoes," a collaboration with lyricist Dorothy Fields for a show that never happened. Backed by a discreet orchestra and proving himself a nimble pianist, Coleman also displays an assured set of pipes; he certainly doesn't sound out of place next to guest Tony Bennett, who performs the positively Michel Legrand-esque "The Colors of My Life" (fromBarnum). Lillias White, who brought the house down in Coleman'sThe Life, duets with the composer on the title track. Oddly enough considering the two principals, the song's a bit too blandly uplifting, but it shouldn't prevent you from enjoying this otherwise excellent collection of adult pop.--Elisabeth Vincentelli