Betty Buckley (15 Year Anniversary Rerelease)
AfterBetty Buckleyhad made her biggest Broadway splash withCats, she recorded her first solo concerts in 1984 at Saint Bartholomew's Church in New York City backed by a small ensemble. This recording, simply titledBetty Buckleyand long out of print, has been rereleased in remastered (though still rough) sound on Buckley's own KO label. The majority of songs are by Buckley herself, collaborating with a number of partners on the music and writing her own lyrics. Relying more on rhythmic snap than catchy melodic hooks, songs such as "Dark Blue-Eyed Blues," the Latin-accented "So La," and "Doo Bop" especially shine in these jazzy settings by music director Keith Hermann. There's even a rap number, "Gaviola," and a closing hymn. More familiar fare includes "The Wind Beneath My Wings" andStephen Schwartz's soaring "Meadowlark." Filling out the 59-minute album are three previously unreleased tracks, including "Over You," which she performed in the 1983 filmTender Mercies, and two more Buckley originals. As to be expected, Buckley pours it all out in front of her audience (which is very discreet throughout), making this a heartfelt album from the reigning queen of Broadway divas.--David Horiuchi