Leading Man: Best of Broadway ~ Thomas Hampson | Classic Broadway Hits for Home Listening, Dinner Parties & Theater Enthusiasts

Amazon.com The luscious baritone Thomas Hampson says, "I grew up with this tradition (musical comedy), with the idea of singing straight from the heart." And sing from the heart he does, while utilizing his extensive vocal training to enliven all nuance, realize each intimate moment, and expand into every climax. His big, broad, totally controlled baritone visits falsetto land more in this recording that in his entire operatic career--but it works! In a nostalgic moment, he sings "Hey, There" with John Raitt, who still possesses a hint of his former dominance in this repertoire. Most effective is his rendition of "Unusual Way," which he winningly makes his own. A stunner. --Barbara Eisner Bayer