Barbra Streisand - Live In Concert 2006: CD Review

If you did not have the opportunity to enjoy one of Barbra Streisand's concerts in 2006, her voice remains a wondrous gift to behold, as I observed in my Atlanta concert review.  Now, with the double-disc set Live In Concert 2006 (Columbia/Sony BMG, 5/8/07) we have the extremely tasty proof in the pudding or rather proof in the more familiar "buttah."  The 93-minute recording was made in New York, Washington, and Fort Lauderdale and features the songs Streisand performed in all 16 tour cities, plus a second encore "Smile."  The singer is certainly center stage in the excellent mix accompanied by a potent 58-piece orchestra that presents beautiful accompaniment and stirring climaxes, especially the moment Barbra first appears on stage after the overture.  Repeated listening draws one's ear to her improvisational nuances in the unique colorings of the songs, bending notes unexpectedly and ever so delicately, transforming her signature numbers with fresh, inspired renditions.

Not only are Barbra's vocal musical performances dazzling (22 songs), but so are the spoken word pieces, which are virtually intact, comprising 8 tracks of their own.  Omitted are references to local sights and restaurants in the opening remarks, "Ask Barbra" audience questions, and the controversial comedy sketch with Steve Bridges as President Bush.  Regardless, Barbra's personal connection with the audience pervades the recording.  She sounds genuinely happy on stage -- "I've really been enjoying myself singing songs I haven't sung for many years and feeling the warmth from the audience.  It's kind of overwhelming."  Also, Barbra's spontaneous asides in response to cheers and shouts are fun to hear -- "Let's see what's doing over here," she says to a portion of the crowd while moving closer.  Her humility is delightful, muttering the French word "merde" during her "Ma Premiere Chanson" piano portion.  Listen closely to discover several other candid moments.

David Reitzas again provides an engaging audio mix both powerful and subtle, customized for each song.  The delicate acoustic guitar sounds terrific in the "Evergreen" intro, as do the multiple vocals in English, French, Italian, and Spanish.  You'll notice a seamless transition from the omitted Il Divo mini-set of songs to Barbra's "Come Rain Or Come Shine.  The bittersweet strings at the end of "Funny Girl" may make you cry, as they reach out to the listener in the brilliant soundscape.  

It's exciting to add several first-time Streisand song recordings to her extensive discography, such as "Unusual Way," "My Shining Hour" and "A Cockeyed Optimist," an absolutely thrilling Broadway number, particularly when turned up loud.  In addition, Barbra delivers William Saroyan's inspiring forward to his 1939 play The Time Of Your Life, in a bravura moment.

Live In Concert 2006 is Barbra Streisand's sixth live album and third to feature "Somewhere," this time joining with Il Divo.  Holding the final note a full 10 seconds, Barbra leaves the listener perhaps equally breathless before delivering three more songs to complete this stunning recording.  Enjoy, cherish the music, and marvel with the CD.  We'll just have to wait until the TV special to relive Barbra kicking up her heels during "Don't Rain On My Parade."  -- Mark Iskowitz, 4/29/07

Act I
1.  Funny Girl Broadway Overture
2.  Starting Here, Starting Now
3.  Opening Remarks
4.  Down With Love
5.  The Way We Were
6.  Songwriting (dialogue)
7.  Ma Premiere Chanson
8.  Evergreen (with Il Divo)
9.  Come Rain Or Come Shine
10. Funny Girl (dialogue)
11. Funny Girl
12. The Music That Makes Me Dance
13. My Man
14. People (dialogue)
15. People

Act II
1.  Entr'acte
2.  The Music Of The Night (with Il Divo)
3.  Jason's Theme
4.  Carefully Taught/Children Will Listen
5.  Unusual Way
6.  What Are You Doing The Rest Of Your Life
7.  Happy Days Are Here Again
8.  (Have I Stayed) Too Long At The Fair?
9.  William Saroyan (dialogue)
10. The Time Of Your Life
11. A Cockeyed Optimist
12. Somewhere (dialogue)
13. Somewhere (with Il Divo)
14. My Shining Hour
15. Don't Rain On My Parade (reprise)
16. Smile

17. When The Sun Comes Out (exclusive to editions sold at Barnes & Noble stores)