MIDDLE EIGHT MUSIC

Now available at Middle Eight Music, the latest hit West End musical, Matilda the Musical, featuring music and lyrics by Australia's Tim Minchin!

2012-01-28T09:41:00.003+11:00

Matilda The Musical - 2011 Original UK Cast

Music and Lyrics by Tim Minchin.

Starring Lauren Ward, Bertie Carvel, Josie Walker, Paul Kaye and Adrianna Bertola, Josie Griffiths and Kerry Ingram as Matilda.

Roald Dahl's much-loved story bursts into life on stage in this fabulous new musical by Dennis Kelly and award-winning Australian songwriter and comedian Tim Minchin. Children and adults alike will be thrilled and delighted by the story of the special little girl with an extraordinary imagination.

First produced by the Royal Shakespeare Company in December 2010, this album was recorded in a studio by the original cast from the sensational sell-out season at The Courtyard Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon.

Matilda has now transferred to the West End receiving five-star reviews!

"Utterly exhilirating - Matilda explodes onto the stage!" - The Independent

"Gleefully nasty. An Evening of unadulterated bliss" - The Guardian

"Hilarious, moving and magical - a glorious production" - The Daily Telegraph

"The quest for a great new musical is over!" - London Evening Standard

"An absolute cracker, bursting with dynamism, fizzing with verve - fantastic!" - Daily Express

The CD includes a 28 page colour booklet featuring photos from the production and complete lyrics.

Now in stock at Middle Eight Music, David Harris' eagerly-awaited new album, At This Stage!

2011-12-15T09:44:00.002+11:00

David Harris - At This Stage

Now in stock, David Harris' eagerly-awaited follow-up album to 'Til The Night Is Gone!

David Harris is one of Australia's acclaimed leading men of his generation, having starred in major productions including Wicked, Miss Saigon, Mamma Mia!, The Boy From Oz, Fiddler On The Roof, The Full Monty and Damn Yankees to name just a few.

With David's bright, lyrical vocals and unique interpretations, At This Stage features musical theatre classics from West Side Story, Carousel, Les Miserables, Miss Saigon and The Sound Of Music, along with contemporary hits from Wicked and Disney's Tangled.

With musical direction by David Cameron, At This Stage also features guests Lucy Durack, Jemma Rix and Kellie Rode.

Also available from Middle Eight Music:

David Harris - 'Til The Night Is Gone

Now available through Middle Eight Music...Sing On Through Tomorrow: The Songs of Matthew Robinson - 2011 Original Australian Cast

2011-09-26T14:03:00.001+10:00

Sing On Through Tomorrow: The Songs Of Matthew Robinson - 2011 Original Australian Cast

Sing On Through Tomorrow is a new musical revue featuring the most acclaimed songs from the decade-long career of multi-award winning composer/lyricist Matthew Robinson.

Featuring Matthew Robinson, Shaun Rennie, Kate Maree Hoolihan and Hollie Andrew under the musical direction by Peter Rutherford.

Using songs from his critically acclaimed first musical Metro Street, as well as his hit cabaret shows, right through to his latest musical in development Happy People, Sing On Through Tomorrow tells the story of four thirty-somethings who must travel back in time to rediscover their reason to dream on.

Here's how Matthew describes the work..."Sing on Through Tomorrow is a revue of some of my dearest work but also tells the story of four young adults in their mid thirties who must travel back in time to find their inspiration and spirit. It’s a beautiful and emotionally charged journey."

"Robinson creates lyrics of wit and tenderness, and marries them to music of sophisticated craftsmanship, attractive melodies and clever modulations" - The Sydney Morning Herald

"what a joy it is to be thoroughly entertained by a collection of musical theatre songs from up-and-coming Australian songwriter Matthew Robinson...the range, texture and contrast of his catalogue, as displayed in this revue, is diverse and exciting. There are emotional ballads, lively ensembles, engagingly connected duets and delicious comedy numbers, through a broad range of dramatic (and comedic) contexts." - Neil Litchfield, Stage Whispers

Tracks:

1. Dream On
2. On A Rooftop
3. Five Years Time
4. Metro Street
5. The Girl Next Door
6. Just Say
7. Happy
8. All Together Now
9. Don't Care
10. Yes, I Know
11. Kiss Kiss Bang Bang
12. Sing On Through Tomorrow
13. Princess
14. As Night Descends
15. Built To Last
16. Love is Fine
17. Late Again
18. Boyband
19. Dignity
20. What You Are To Me
21. You Are My Song
22. Dream On / Sing On Through Tomorrow (reprise)

Now available through Middle Eight Music...Lee McAllistair's stunning new jazz album, Spellbound!

2011-09-17T11:48:00.002+10:00

Lee McAllistair - Spellbound

Australian jazz vocalist and composer Lee McAllistair has enjoyed an international career over the past 15 years. She has performed at London’s famous 606 Jazz club, the Famous Spiegeltent (UK and Australia), the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, in Asia and at major festivals, events and venues around Australia.

Lee studied with respected jazz vocalists Anita Wardell, Jo Lawry and Connaitre Miller at Adelaide University's Elder Conservatorium of Music, before going on to join the vocal jazz teaching staff at the University for two years. Since her move to Sydney, Lee has studied with Kristin Berardi and recently furthered her composition studies with the Stanford University summer jazz residency in August 2011.

Lee now launches her first album, Spellbound, consisting entirely of original jazz songs, and featuring long-time collaborators Mark Simeon Ferguson on piano, Mike Bevan on guitar and Lyndon Gray on bass, with guest guitarist James Muller.

The album is a lush musical soundscape that traverses diverse musical ground, from Latin, blues and swing to more pop-influenced tunes. Lee is also a talented lyricist with a penchant for double entendre and using musical terms to describe emotions and situations.

Here's how Lee describes her album: "My focus is always great melody, memorable melody – I pay homage to the craft of the jazz standard, even though these are new songs. And for me the lyrics appear simultaneously with the melody and are as much a part of the music as the notes. Spellbound is also a very emotional journey. It’s about finding that dreamy place where you step back and realise that while life is not the prefabricated fairytale you thought it would be, it’s somehow just perfect, with all its flaws, exactly as it is. Finding perfection in imperfection is what this album is ultimately about."

"Given her background, experience and abundance of exceptional vocal and compositional talents, Lee McAllistair deserves to be far better known in Australia...Her vocal style is a little reminiscent of Peggy Lee, using similar expressive phrasing, but with a mistier, more fragile quality, over a wider range, and she writes strikingly beautiful songs that work very well on musical and poetic levels...While there is no shortage of able female jazz vocalists in Australia, there are very, very few able to write as convincingly and memorably as McAllistair." - John McBeath, The Australian

Lee McAllistair - vocals
Mark Simeon Ferguson - piano
Mike Bevan - guitar
Lyndon Gray - bass
James Muller - guitar

Now available at Middle Eight Music, the 2011 Tony Award Best Musical, The Book Of Mormon!

2011-06-13T13:18:00.002+10:00

The Book of Mormon - 2011 Original Broadway Cast

The biggest hit on Broadway this year and winner of 9 Tony Awards including best musical and best original score!

From Trey Parker and Matt Stone, four-time Emmy Award-winning creators of South Park, and Robert Lopez, Tony Award-winning co-creator of Avenue Q, comes a new Broadway musical called "the funniest show I've ever seen, by far" (Entertainment Weekly) and "so good it makes me angry" (Jon Stewart, The Daily Show).

The Book of Mormon follows a pair of mismatched Mormon boys sent on a mission to a place that’s about as far from Salt Lake City as you can get.

Starring Josh Gad, Andrew Rannells, Nikki M. James, Rory O'Malley, Michael Potts and Lewis Cleale.

"Given the key contributors that "South Park" creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone teamed with for their first Broadway outing, one might expect "The Book of Mormon" to show the influences of "Spamalot" and "Avenue Q." As it happens, this raucously funny new show surpasses both of those Tony winners, and handily so: Every song enhances the hilarity, expert staging heightens every gag, and the cast of fresh faces is blissfully good. Broadway hasn't seen anything like it since Mel Brooks came to town with "The Producers," only "Mormon" has better songs." - Steven Suskin, Variety

"Teaming with Robert Lopez, who co-wrote the music and lyrics for Avenue Q, Parker and Stone have created one of the freshest original musicals in recent memory. It has tuneful songs, clever lyrics, winning characters, explosive laughs and disarmingly intimate moments." - David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter

"...a newborn, old-fashioned, pleasure-giving musical has arrived at the Eugene O'Neill Theater...The Book of Mormon is utterly fluent in the language of musical entertainment from vaudeville to anthem-laden poperettas like Les Miserables and beyond." - Ben Brantley, The New York Times

"a fiendishly well-crafted, hilariously smart or maybe smartly hilarious song-and-dance extravaganza...The show's a hoot. The show's a hit...a full-blooded tuner that rejuvenates musicals while displaying a genuine love for the form." - Elisabeth Vincentelli, The New York Post

Warning:This CD contains very strong language.

Now available at Middle Eight Music...Eddie Perfect's new cabaret show Misanthropology!

2011-05-21T14:15:00.001+10:00

Eddie Perfect - Misanthropology

Award-winning comedian, composer and performer, Eddie Perfect is back!

Misanthropology is Perfect’s first new solo cabaret show since Drink Pepsi Bitch! and is described as a kind of twisted social autopsy, examining the stranger cultural rituals we find ourselves performing.

Here's how Eddie describes the show.....

“It’s the first solo show I’ve done in a while. It takes a look at human evolution, where it’s come from and where it might be going. And rather than every other text book, history lesson and documentary you’ll ever see about the human species which begins from the premise of, ‘Aren’t we amazing?’ I thought I’d look at all the ways that humans are imperfect and frail.

Sounds cheery, doesn’t it?....I think having a daughter, having a baby, has something to do with that. Because you go through a very fast-tracked process of understanding general human development, I found it really interesting. I also find that, generally, humans are pretty arrogant and self satisfied in a lot of ways.

There is some kind of cultural things in there, stuff about the environment. To me it’s about picking the non-obvious targets really. In my research there was a lot of really interesting stuff, like humans and our relationship with other animals, and why we think we’re so superior...There’s a song in there called The Ecolodge, which is about wealthy people who don’t really give a rat’s ass about the environment for most of the year, and then they go on a very expensive environmentally-friendly holiday and it seems to somehow absolve them. There’s stuff in there about the overtly wanky culture of professional sportsmen. Self-righteous cyclists, over-inflated wanky theatre directors. Basically it’s burning bridges for me!"

Recorded live at the famous Spiegeltent, Sydney Festival 2011

Middle Eight Music co-owner Shane Hewitt launches OzBizHelp website.

2011-05-21T13:56:00.005+10:00

Co-owner of Middle Eight Music, Shane Hewitt, recently decided to rebrand and expand his bookkeeeping business and is now trading under the new name of OzBizHelp.

OzBizHelp provides onsite and offsite bookkeeping, payroll and administrative services to small and medium sized businesses in Melbourne.

Shane is an MYOB Partner and a Registered BAS Agent, so if you're looking for a bookkeeper in St Kilda or surrounding areas check out his new website: http://www.ozbizhelp.com.au

Now in stock at Middle Eight Music...the long-awaited new album from the wonderful Silvie Paladino!

2011-04-15T12:43:00.003+10:00

Silvie Paladino - On My Own

The wait is over!

We now have stock of Silvie Paladino's stunning new album On My Own!

Now in stock at Middle Eight Music... La Musique, the latest CD from the fabulous Micheline van Hautem!

2011-04-15T12:38:00.001+10:00

Micheline Van Hautem - La Musique

On her latest CD, Belgian chanteuse, Micheline sings her favorite songs of Belgian troubadour Jacques Brel accompanied by Erwin van Ligten on 6-string guitar - a dynamic, acoustic, intense French tribute to Belgium's most loved chansonnier.

Just flown into Middle Eight Music!...Mary Poppins the Original Australian Cast Recording!

2011-02-15T17:07:00.001+11:00

Mary Poppins - 2010 Original Australian Cast

The Mary Poppins Australian Cast Recording was captured live over five nights at Her Majesty's Theatre, Melbourne 2010.

Starring Verity Hunt-Ballard in the title role and Matt Lee as Bert. The cast also features Philip Quast as George Banks, Marina Prior as Winifred Banks, Debra Byrne as Bird Woman, and Judi Connelli as Miss Andrew.

This recording gives people the chance to take home a permanent record of the show as it has evolved since the Original London Cast Recording from 2005. Much work has been done on the musical score since 2005, first on Broadway, then on the US Tour, and some final tweaks in rehearsal in Australia. This includes the premiere recording of a new song, "Playing The Game", which was put into the show in the US and is now in all productions worldwide.

Includes fabulous 36 page booklet with complete lyrics, synopsis and colour production photos!

Now in stock at Middle Eight Music..two fabulous albums for lovers of sophisticated cabaret!

2011-02-04T14:59:00.003+11:00

Barbara Cook and Michael Feinstein - Cheek To Cheek

The fabulous Barbara Cook joins forces for the first time with Michael Feinstein recorded live at his Manhattan nightclub, Feinstein`s at Loews Regency.

The CD features standards by Arlen, Porter, Berlin and Sondheim plus lesser-known songs including a gem, Ever After, by Marcy Heisler and Zina Goldrich, the title song from their forthcoming musical.

"The joy of collaboration is a unique pleasure for an artist. It can sometimes reveal aspects of one's own art that might otherwise remain hidden. Working with Barbara has been a highlight in every way and I simply adore her. She is not only a singer's singer and supreme interpreter of text, she is also sweet, passionate, bawdy, funny and wonderful company. Thank you Barbara for the honor!" - Michael Feinstein

"Michael Feinstein has been brilliant in creating a series of duet nightclub acts...He has, perhaps, outdone himself by teaming up with the legendary Barbara Cook..." - Barbara and Scott Siegel

"The most surprising aspect of the pairing of Broadway legend Barbara Cook and cabaret veteran Michael Feinstein is that they didn't think of getting together sooner. Their teaming is a natural." - David Sheward, BackStage

Michael Feinstein - Fly Me To The Moon

A five-time Grammy nominee, Michael Feinstein is often credited with reinvigorating interest in the American popular song. He has performed in concert halls around the world and on Broadway and now co-owns his own nightclub, Feinstein's at Loews Regency.

This new release from Duckhole Records presents Michael in an intimate reflective mood and features jazz guitar legend Joe Negri, Jay Leonhardt on bass and Joe Cocuzzo on drums.

Includes superbly illustrative sleeve notes about each song by Michael himself.

"This is an intimate album that should find its place at the top of any list of great interpretations of any songbook." - John Hoglund, Cabaret Scenes

"Feinstein purrs - rather than croons - songs of gthe night more fitting for a cozy living room with a glass of wine or a snifter of brandy by a crackling fireplace...Feinstein's loveliest album in years." - Steven Suskin, playbill.com

Now available at Middle Eight Music...the long-awaited second album from the fabulous Natalie Gamsu!

2011-01-22T10:36:00.002+11:00

Natalie Gamsu - Misfit

Natalie Gamsu's second CD, Misfit, is an intimate collection of songs specially arranged for Natalie by Jonathan Cooper who accompanies her on piano.

Misfit tells the tales of various sorrowful souls with songs by Annie Lennox, Bryan Adams, Scott Walker, Jonathan Cooper and others - a delicious rogue’s gallery.

Natalie was recently described by film director Bruce Beresford, reviewing a live performance of Misfit in Sydney, as "the equal, no doubt, of Piaf, or Fréhel, or Dietrich in her 1930s heyday".

Also available from Middle Eight Music:

Natalie Gamsu - Weave

Now in stock at Middle Eight Music...Nancy LaMott The Don't Tell Mama Shows on 2 fabulous DVDs!

2011-01-08T11:14:00.003+11:00

Nancy LaMott - The Don't Tell Mama Shows 1986-1988 (2 DVD NTSC Zone 1 USA)

Now in stock on DVD from LML/Midder Music...four complete cabaret acts from the sublime Nancy LaMott!

The four complete cabaret acts on this 2-DVD set mark the height of Nancy LaMott's career at Don't Tell Mama, just before she made her first of a series of CDs that catapulted her into the public eye in a much bigger way.

It was at these performances that it became obvious that Nancy was a major singing star who needed to be heard by the world at large. With no bells and whistles, no fancy lighting, no big band, just a piano on a small stage, Nancy's extraordinary way with a song and her ability to move an audience to laughter, tears and everything in between shines through. For those who remember those days, these performances are a nostalgic look back at a consummate artist and lovely human being in a sweeter, simpler time. For those who don't, these performances are a lesson in how it was done.

Also available on DVD:

Nancy LaMott - I'll Be Here With You (DVD NTSC Zone 1 USA)

A collection of rare live performances from 1978-1995.

The full range of Nancy LaMott CDs and DVDs is available here:

Nancy LaMott

And back in stock from LML/Midder Music:

Listen To My Heart: The Songs of David Friedman

Listen To My Heart: The Songs of David Friedman (sheet music songbook)

FREE SHIPPING for all orders for Billy Goat Designs Leather Goods within Australia!

2010-12-12T11:13:00.001+11:00

Middle Eight Music is now offering FREE SHIPPING! on all orders for Billy Goat Designs Leather Goods within Australia.

NB: This only applies within Australia. For overseas orders please either contact us for the shipping cost or select "Leather Bag" in the shipping rates dropdown list in the order form and we will let you know the rate for your country before we process your order.

Each of these bags is individually made by experienced craftspeople in India using goat leather. The leather is strong and durable and yet it is light in weight and will age beautifully, becoming softer and more flexible over time. Being handmade, each bag is slightly different and there may be variations in the colour and texture of the leather. The leather used for these bags is not chemically treated so it retains a lovely, distinctive earthy smell which fades over time.

Now available at Middle Eight Music..fabulous new DVD from David Campbell - The Broadway Show!

2010-12-01T09:36:00.001+11:00

David Campbell - The Broadway Show: Live In Australia (DVD PAL Zone 4)

David Campbell is one of Australia's most sought after live entertainers and after watching this live DVD you'll understand why!

Filmed live at Adelaide's Festival Theatre, in a high quality 5 camera shoot.

NB:This DVD is PAL Zone 4 Australia Format and will require a multizone DVD player if played outside Australia.

Now in stock at Middle Eight music...Evening Primrose on DVD!

2010-11-27T11:26:00.001+11:00

Evening Primrose (DVD NTSC Zone1 USA)

Created especially for television, Evening Primrose aired only once on ABC Stage 67. Starring Anthony Perkins and Charmian Carr, the production featured a teleplay adapted by James Goldman (from a short story by John Collier) and a score that included some of Stephen Sondheim’s most hauntingly beautiful songs – among them “If You Find Me, I’m Here” and “Take Me to the World”.

This long-lost treasure is now available for the first time ever – impeccably restored and re-mastered from a pristine kinescope print.

Includes over 80 minutes of Bonus Features:

Newly recorded video interview with director Paul Bogart
Newly recorded audio interview with Charmian Carr
Paul Bogart's full color test footage with Anthony Perkins

Plus a 28-page booklet with contributions by Stephen Sondheim and Jane Klain of the Paley Center for Media

Now available at Middle Eight Music...Reg Livermore's Betty Blokk Buster Follies on both CD and DVD!

2010-11-27T11:12:00.002+11:00

Reg Livermore - Betty Blokk Buster Follies (DVD PAL All Regions)

The long awaited release on DVD of Reg Livermore's Betty Blokk Buster Follies!

In April 1975 Reg Livermore stormed the stage of Sydney's Balmain Bijou Theatre with his groundbreaking show Betty Blokk Buster Follies. A tour de force, an irrestible blend of music and comedy, the show caught the imagination of audiences all round Australia filling theatres wherever it played. This record of the show was released in cinemas during 1976 and is at last available on DVD!

As an added bonus, a special 1 hour documentary entitled "End of an Era" has been included which looks at Reg Livermore's 5 years as a One Man Show.

Also available from Middle Eight Music:

Reg Livermore - Betty Blokk Buster Follies

Once again available on CD!..but this time the complete 2LP set!...one of Australia's greatest showbiz icons doing his thing!

Betty Blokk Buster earned 1 Platinum and 2 Gold records back in the 70's. The album reached number 15 and stayed on the charts for over 1 year!

A truly brilliant and important Australian recorded masterpiece!

Vale Dame Joan Sutherland

2010-10-12T12:19:00.001+11:00

Dame Joan Sutherland CDs are available through Middle Eight Music

Just arrived from Kritzerland..Sugar Original Broadway Cast 2CD Limited Edition

2010-09-28T14:28:00.001+10:00

Sugar - 1972 Original Broadway Cast (2CD Special Edition)

Here is how Bruce Kimmel describes this exciting release!

"Sometimes timing is everything. If, for example, Sugar, a musical based on a beloved film comedy, with two great male starring roles, directed by an amazing director/choreographer, had opened not in April 1972 but in April 2001, the year another musical based on a beloved film comedy, with two great male starring roles, directed by an amazing director/choreographer, my guess is it would have been a smash hit and run for a very long time. But The Producers had the timing and Sugar didn’t.

Sugar had the misfortune to open at a time when the musical theater was going through great change - as Time magazine critic T.E. Kalem put it in his review of Sugar: "Sugar is almost a textbook case of a musical born after its time. It may well enjoy great wads of audience favor. But in the past three years Company and Follies have altered the critical perspective by providing a musical form that is spare, intelligent, ironic, mature and capable of sustaining three-dimensional characters." By 2001, audiences, after years of spare, intelligent, ironic, mature musicals, were ready, willing, and more than able to embrace on old-fashioned nothing-on-its-mind-but-laughs-and-entertainment musical like The Producers. But in 1972, Sugar, despite its non-stop hilarity and tuneful Jule Styne/Bob Merrill songs, seemed like a bit of a dinosaur, at least to critics. The book was deemed clunky and the score uninspired. And maybe it seemed that way back then. Now, it seems a model of musical comedy craftsmanship. From the first notes of the overture you know it's a Jule Styne score - and what an overture it is, classic Styne all the way, with great tunes, one after another, all orchestrated by the wonderful Philip J. Lang. The songs are clever and fun and occasionally laugh out loud funny - it's a real musical comedy score, the kind they don't write any more. The performances are stellar, with great work from stars Robert Morse, Tony Roberts, Elaine Joyce, and Cyril Ritchard.

Sugar was originally released on United Artists records. It was then issued on CD in 1999 by Ryko (the Ryko is long out of print and bringing fairly high prices). For this release we pulled all the tapes from the MGM vaults. As was the case with Promises, Promises, the first thing we found was that the Ryko version was not the original album mix, but a remix that simply attempted to ape the original album mix. The original album masters were there, along with all the sixteen-track session tapes. After listening to the album masters, we couldn't believe how much swimmy, washy reverb was used on that original mix (and on the CD released by Ryko). It was the fashion back then, but this was just about the heaviest reverb we'd ever heard on a cast recording. It robbed the orchestra of detail and the vocals sounded like they were in a huge garage. The album masters did, however, sound better than the previous CD release. The sound on the sixteen-track session tapes was astounding. Yes, it was dry, and yes it needed some space added, but the recording itself and the way the band and performers sounded was so crystal clear and beautiful and brassy that it took no more than five seconds to realize that we wanted to do what we did with Promises, and offer an alternate new mix along with the original album mix on CD for the first time. Remixing this score was a particular joy. Suddenly we were hearing wonderful orchestral details we'd never heard before - we placed the instruments a little differently in the soundstage for optimum clarity, and the vocals sound much more present and are no longer occasionally getting beaten up by the band the way they were in the original. So we hope it will be fun to hear this alternate mix with a lot less artificial processing - we think it gives the score a whole new vibrancy and vitality as well as crystal clarity."

Now available at Middle Eight Music...Sondheim On Sondheim!

2010-08-22T11:02:00.001+10:00

Sondheim On Sondheim - 2010 Original Broadway Cast (2CD)

Starring Barbara Cook, Vanessa Williams, Tom Wopat, Leslie Kritzer, Norm Lewis, Euan Morton, Erin Mackey & Matthew Scott and Stephen Sondheim.

Hailed by the Associated Press as a "revelatory revue full of wonderful moments" and by USA Today as a "funny, affectionate and revealing tribute to musical theater's greatest living composer and lyricist," Sondheim On Sondheim is an intimate portrait of the famed songwriter in his own words... and music.

An all-star cast headed by Barbara Cook, Vanessa Williams and Tom Wopat takes on new arrangements of over two-dozen Sondheim tunes, ranging from the beloved to the obscure (including one brand new song 'God' especially written for the show), interspersed with audio commentary by the composer himself, who reveals fascinating details about his life and his art.

“A priceless gift to the theater. revealing, fascinating and utterly charming!” - Newsday

“It feels like you're having an intimate chat with the master himself!” - Entertainment Weekly

“A love song to a musical master” - USA Today

Now available at Middle Eight Music...An Evening with Bernadette Peters DVD Live in Australia!

2010-08-12T17:14:00.001+10:00

Bernadette Peters - An Evening With Bernadette Peters (DVD PAL Zone 4 Australia)

A Truly Unforgettable Concert From A Unique Singer...A Performance To Be Treasured!

Broadway diva Bernadette Peters headlined the 2009 Adelaide Cabaret Festival and brought the crowd to their feet for three standing ovations.

Not only did she look sensational and ageless, her voice was in top form and gave those who came to see her an evening to remember.

From her opening number, Let Me Entertain You, Peters brought wit, emotion and her inimitable style to a range of musical numbers and pop classics. Highlights included a playfully sexy rendition of Fever from atop a grand piano, a heart-rending Rose's Turn (from Gypsy) and a performance of her self-penned charity single Kramers Song.

Featuring classics from Rodgers and Hammerstein and Stephen Sondheim, Bernadette Peters charmed her audience with her bubbly personality and hilarious banter which were overshadowed only by the rich textures of her magnificent voice.

Bernadette Peters came to Adelaide and shone brilliantly, backed superbly by the 28-piece Adelaide Art Orchestra.

"The audience were rapturous in their applause, all rising as one to salute one of the finest performers of our time." - AussieTheatre.com.au

Now in stock at Middle Eight Music..the debut album from Amelia Cormack

2010-07-06T12:07:00.001+10:00

Amelia Cormack

After spending the last three years on stage in the world of theatre, Amelia finally has time to let her passion for writing her own music out of the bag. Although an accomplished violin and piano player, it wasn't until she picked up a guitar that Amelia really found her feet as a writer. Since that moment she has written for voice, piano and guitar. She first started performing her own material in the jazz and blues band "Blue Tongue", and used her time at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts as a testing ground for her material.

Music and Lyrics by Amelia Cormack

Amelia Cormack - vocals, piano, violin
Hamish Stuart - drums
Brett Hirst - electric bass
Tony King - acoustic and electric guitars, electric bass
Angus Gomm - trumpet
Craig Stuart - saxophone
Bill Risby - piano

Also available from Middle Eight Music featuring Amelia Cormack, Peter Rutherford and James Millar's new Australian musical, LoveBites.

Just arrived...Life's A Circus - a thrilling new Australian musical by Anthony Costanzo!

2010-05-31T15:48:00.002+10:00

Life’s A Circus - 2009 Original Australian Cast

Now in stock!..Life's A Circus - a thrilling new Australian musical about dangerous choices - and points of no return.

Music and Lyrics by Anthony Costanzo and Book by Peter Fitzpatrick.

Starring Chelsea Plumley, Glen Hogstrom and Cameron McDonald.

Life's A Circus combines circus with theatre and deals with contemporary love and timeless betrayal. Have Vivien and David, two performers and friends, finally found in Alex someone worth risking everything for?

"Anthony Costanzo’s Life's A Circus is a rare and exciting musical, one that demands multiple listenings, and, even better, multiple viewings so you can enjoy the fusion of musical and physical. It is as thrilling as the big top should be" – Kris Stewart

"With such a small cast, each have their individual moments to lift the roof off … when the three sing together, their harmonies are pure electricity" - Arts Hub.

"The music is outstanding and Anthony is a new voice in the world of musical Theatre" - Australian Stage

"The three principal are, without exception, superb. Their reading of, and obvious respect for Mr Costanzo’s big hearted and harmonious score is spot on" - Stage Whispers

"Costanzo has a huge gift as a composer. He is brilliant at setting a scene, writing comic duets and delivering striking melodies" – The Melbourne Age

"Costanzo’s songs are compelling" - Herald Sun

Originally produced by Magnormos at Theatreworks, St. Kilda 2009.

Now in stock at Middle Eight Music..Barbra Streisand One Night Only

2010-05-25T11:19:00.002+10:00

Barbra Streisand - One Night Only - Live At The Village Vanguard September 26, 2009 Deluxe Edition (CD/DVD)

Barbra's First Club Performance in 48 Years!

Barbra Streisand live at the Village Vanguard, New York's legendary jazz club. In September 2009, 48 years after her last club performance, a select group of fans and friends had the rare opportunity to experience Barbra in this ultimate up-close-and-personal setting. Accompanied only by piano, bass, guitar and drums, this is the artist at her most intimate.

The deluxe version includes both a CD and DVD of the unforgettable live performance.

"Concerts by Ms. Streisand are rare, but the scale of Saturday's show was exceptional enough to briefly upend the natural social order of celebrity events.." - The New York Times

The DVD is also available separately

Just arrived at Middle Eight Music..The Big Gay Musical on DVD!

2010-05-25T11:16:00.000+10:00

The Big Gay Musical (DVD NTSC Zone 1 US)

Paul and Eddie, two co-stars in the musical "Adam and Steve Just the Way God Made 'Em," are each pondering major life decisions: Paul wants to give up dating and have no-strings sex; Eddie's considering coming out to his super-religious parents. While at first these changes bring major disasters (Eddie's parents panic at the news, Paul ruins a one-night stand), a great night of satire, costumes, singing, and dancing gives everyone the confidence to just be themselves.

"Thoroughly engaging, funny, smart and heartfelt!" - NYC Movie Guru

"Seldom has blasphemy been so entertaining!" - Variety

Special Features:

The Full Musical: "Adam & Steve - Just The Way God Made 'em!" including deleted scenes
Commentary with directors Casper Andreas, Fred M. Caruso, star Daniel Robinson and editor Alex Hammer
The making of The Big Gay Musical featurette
Trailers

NB:This DVD is Zone 1 NTSC Format and will require a multizone DVD player.

Hundreds of bargains at Middle Eight Music!

2010-05-25T10:52:00.003+10:00

Middle Eight Music $9.95 Bargain bin

If you're after a bargain, check out the $9.95 Bargain Bin at Middle Eight Music!

There are hundreds of great CDs for under A$10.00!....and more will be added each week!

Billy Goat Designs leather bags and satchels available through Middle Eight Music

2010-05-21T17:12:00.003+10:00

Handmade Goat Leather Bags and Satchels from Billy Goat Designs

We are pleased to offer a range of beautiful handmade goat leather bags and accessories from Billy Goat Designs.

Each of these bags is individually made by experienced craftspeople in India using goat leather. The leather is strong and durable and yet it is light in weight and will age beautifully, becoming softer and more flexible over time. Being handmade, each bag is slightly different and there may be variations in the colour and texture of the leather. The leather used for these bags is not chemically treated so it retains a lovely, distinctive earthy smell which fades over time.

Check out our full range (now greatly expanded).

Now in stock at Middle Eight Music - Jack Thompson - The Battlefield Poems Of Banjo Paterson

2010-05-07T14:00:00.001+10:00

Jack Thompson - The Battlefield Poems Of Banjo Paterson

Australia's much loved actor, Jack Thompson reads the wartime poems of Australia's most famous poet, A.B (Banjo) Paterson plus The Ode Of Remembrance by Laurence Binyon.

"Banjo went to the Boer War and World War 1. He wrote of the comradeship, the quiet heroism of men standing by their mates, and the sheer dependability of the decent Australian. I love his work" - Jack Thompson

Other CDs by Jack Thompson available at Middle Eight Music

Now in stock at Middle Eight Music - Stage Whispers Magazine May-June 2010

2010-05-07T13:57:00.000+10:00

Stage Whispers Magazine May-June 2010

Stage Whispers is chock full of feature articles, reviews, auditions and most importantly, a complete On Stage Directory listing all productions by opening date across Australia and New Zealand.

In this issue:

* Aussie West End Invasion – next stop Broadway.
* Saucy Calendar Girls : Author Tim Firth Reveals All.
* Opera Bliss – How L.E.D. Lights Shine.
* Why Life is more than just a Cabaret for David Campbell
* Naked Hippy Romps - Australia’s Experimental Theatre in the 60s.
* Stage Whispers On the West End and On Broadway.
* Love Never Dies – but will the Phantom sequel succeed?
* Sound and Light Special Feature.
* Adelaide Fringe upstages Festival.
* Stephen Sondheim’s 80’th Birthday Present.
* Writing Narrative Comedy. Book Excerpt: The Cheeky Monkey .
* Is Print Music Finished? Meet the Man Who Thinks So!
* Stage on Disc.
* Showbiz Crossword.
* What’s On Stage Across Australia and New Zealand.
* Auditions.
* More than 70 Reviews.
* New Zealand Musical Theatre Celebrates the Big 50.
* Tasmania: where Amateur Theatre Giants Dwarf Professionals.
* Director’s Diary –Musical Bogans: I Heart Frankston The Musical .
* Aussie Musical ‘Paris’ in Austria.

And more....

Now in stock at Middle Eight Music - Trevor Ashley - Liza With A 12 Piece Band (On An EP)

2010-05-07T13:54:00.001+10:00

Trevor Ashley - Liza With A 12 Piece Band (On An EP)

A must-have souvenir of multi-award-losing performer Trevor Ashley's hit cabaret show Liza (On An E) which channels cabaret’s most idiosyncratic superstar and has had audiences on their feet at every performance!

"a great night's entertainment with a cheeky edge, with buckets of laughter and with an unexpected and huge heart" - Stage Noise

Now in stock at Middle Eight Music - Here Lies Love - A Song Cycle about Imelda Marcos

2010-05-07T13:51:00.001+10:00

Here Lies Love - A Song Cycle About Imelda Marcos (2CD)

Here Lies Love is a song cycle about the rise and fall of the Philippines' notorious Imelda Marcos. It was conceived by David Byrne; composed by Byrne and DJ/recording artist Fatboy Slim, AKA Norman Cook; and performed by a dream cast drawn from the worlds of indie rock, alt country, R&B and pop.

Byrne originally envisioned this as a musical theatre piece, to be mounted in disco and nightclub settings, reflecting the globe-trotting Marcos' taste for such velvet-roped spots as Studio 54 and Regine's. In 2006, he performed work-in-progress versions to enthusiastic audiences at New York City's Carnegie Hall and the Adelaide Festival in Australia.

Many of Byrne's lyrics are constructed from actual Imelda quotes, including the project's title, the words that Imelda, now returned to the Philippines from US-assisted exile in Hawaii, would like to have inscribed on her gravestone. Byrne generously annotates each song in the CD booklet and illustrates the story with archival photos. In a detailed preface, he reveals what drew him to this subject and the bumpy route he took to launch the project and, ultimately, record this CD.

Now in stock at Middle Eight Music - American Idiot - 2010 Original Broadway Cast

2010-05-07T13:33:00.001+10:00

American Idiot - 2010 Original Broadway Cast

Music by Billie Joe Armstrong, Tré Cool and Mike Dirnt and lyrics by Billie Joe Armstrong.

American Idiot follows the exhilarating journey of a new generation of young Americans as they struggle to find meaning in a post-9/11 world, borne along by Green Day's electrifying score.

Working with the Broadway cast of their critically acclaimed concept album-turned-musical, American Idiot, Green Day decided to combine the best of both worlds and re-record the album with the show's cast.

This high-octane show includes every song from the acclaimed album American Idiot, as well as several songs from the band's Grammy-nominated new release, 21st Century Breakdown.

Featuring John Gallagher Jr., Michael Esper, Stark Sands, Tony Vincent, Rebecca Naomi Jones, Mary Faber and Christina Sajous.

Now in stock at Middle Eight Music - Memphis A New Musical

2010-05-01T12:08:00.000+10:00

Memphis A New Musical - Original Broadway Cast

MEMPHIS features a brand new score with music by David Bryan (Bon Jovi's founding member/keyboardist)and lyrics by David Bryan and Joe DiPietro (I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change), who also pens the musical's book.

It takes place in the smoky halls and underground clubs of the segregated 50s where a young white DJ named Huey Calhoun (Chad Kimball) falls in love with everything he shouldn't: rock 'n' roll and an electrifying black singer named Felicia (Montego Glover).

Starring Chad Kimball (Huey) and Montego Glover (Felicia), with Derrick Baskin (Gator), J. Bernard Calloway (Delray), James Monroe Iglehart (Bobby), Michael McGrath (Mr. Simmons), and Cass Morgan (Mama).

Now in stock at Middle Eight Music - Maria Friedman Celebrates the Great British Songbook

2010-05-01T12:06:00.001+10:00

Maria Friedman Celebrates The Great British Songbook

For her first completely new studio album in several years, Maria Friedman has gone somewhat back to her roots.

Maria Friedman Celebrates The Great British Songbook is based on a concert of the same name that Maria first performed at the Shaw Theatre in February 2009.

It is a collection of the very best songs the British Isles have produced, including selections of popular music, classical music and standards from musical theatre.

Maria Friedman's many stage credits include The King and I, The Witches of Eastwick, The Woman in White, Chicago, Lady in the Dark, Passion, Ragtime and Sunday in the Park with George, as well as numerous solo concerts in London and the United States.

Now in stock at Middle Eight Music - Kristina the Musical

2010-05-01T12:03:00.000+10:00

Kristina The Musical - Live At Carnegie Hall (2CD)

Music by Benny Andersson and lyrics by Björn Ulvaeus and Herbert Kretzmer.

Kristina is the inspiring story of one woman and her family's struggle in Sweden and their subsequent emigration to America in search of a better life. With stirring music by Benny Andersson and lyrics by Björn Ulvaeus, this moving musical has won awards, critical acclaim and is the most popular musical theatre piece in Swedish history.

This album is a live recording of the new English version recorded live at the US premiere of the show at Carnegie Hall in 2009 and features a cast of over 30 performers led by the original Kristina, Helen Sjoholm, together with Russell Watson, Louise Pitre, Kevin Odekirk with the American Theaatre Orchestra and Choir conducted by Paul Gemignani.

Performed in English with lyrics by Bjorn Ulvaeus and Herbert Kretzmer.

Now in stock at Middle Eight Music - the 2009 Cast Recording of the current Broadway revival of Stephen Sondheim's A Little Night Music.

2010-05-01T12:00:00.001+10:00

A Little Night Music - 2009 Broadway Revival Cast

Now in stock from PS Classics/Nonesuch, the 2009 Cast Recording of the current Broadway revival of Stephen Sondheim's A Little Night Music.

Starring Catherine Zeta-Jones, Angela Lansbury, Alexander Hanson, Aaron Lazar, Erin Davie, Ramona Mallory, Leigh Ann Larkin, and Hunter Ryan Herdlicka.

Produced by Tommy Krasker.

Includes 96 page booklet with complete lyrics and production photos.

Now in stock at Middle Eight Music - a new CD from David Hobson, Australia's favourite tenor!

2010-05-01T11:56:00.001+10:00

David Hobson - The Enchanted Way

Now in stock!...a new CD from Australia's favourite tenor!

David Hobson brings his light and lyrical tenor voice to an exquisite collection of folksongs from the British Isles.

Now in stock at Middle Eight Music...David Campbell On Broadway

2010-03-24T13:27:00.002+11:00

David Campbell On Broadway

On Broadway is the fourth studio album from Australian singer/actor David Campbell and is the album his fans have been eagerly awaiting! It takes David back to the genre of musical theatre through which he first rose to fame.

As a must for music theatre fans, the CD includes the world premiere of the song Goodbye from the forthcoming musical version of Catch Me If You Can, by Hairspray writers Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman.

The album was produced by leading musical director Rob Fisher and veteran arranger Bill Elliott, and recorded with a 40-piece orchestra at East West Studios, Los Angeles in January 2010

Now in stock at Middle Eight Music..Love Never Dies the deluxe edition

2010-03-12T14:49:00.002+11:00

Love Never Dies - 2010 Original London Cast Deluxe Edition (2CD+DVD)

Love Never Dies is Andrew Lloyd-Webber's much-anticipated sequel to legendary musical The Phantom of the Opera and continues the story of The Phantom, who has moved from his lair in the Paris Opera House to haunt the fairgrounds of Coney Island, far across the Atlantic, 10 years after the mysterious disappearance from Paris.

Starring Ramin Karimloo as The Phantom and Sierra Boggess in the role of the lovelorn Christine Daae.

The Deluxe Double CD & DVD version of Love Never Dies, includes the DVD "Love Never Dies – The Story So Far", a 40 minute documentary that goes behind the scenes of the making of the show and album, plus a 32 page book.

"Lloyd Webber's finest show since the original Phantom, with a score blessed with superbly haunting melodies and a yearning romanticism that sent shivers racing down my spine..." - Charles Spencer, The Telegraph

"There is much to enjoy in Andrew Lloyd Webber's new musical. The score is one of the composer's most seductive. Bob Crowley's design and Jack O'Brien's direction have a beautiful kaleidoscopic fluidity. And the performances are good." - Michael Billington, The Guardian

"a hit? Not quite...But if it is a miss, it is...a noble miss, noble because Lloyd Webber’s increasingly operatic music tries to lift us to a higher plane." - Quentin Letts, The Daily Mail

Now in stock at Middle Eight Music...a new CD from Micheline van Hautem!

2010-02-05T13:47:00.001+11:00

Micheline van Hautem with Bruno Brel - L'Esprit de Jacques

Latest Album from popular Belgian chanteuse - the chansons of Jacques Brel spiced up with originals in the spirit (l'esprit) of the master, featuring Micheline van Hautem and Bruno Brel.

Now in stock at Middle Eight Music...a new Triple Pack from Peter Combe!

2010-02-05T13:35:00.000+11:00

Peter Combe - Triple Pack 3

Now available!...Peter Combe's new Triple Pack 3.

It includes most of Wash Your Face in Orange Juice (Peter's most popular CD) plus Chopsticks and Spook (which has been long out of print) plus 6 bonus tracks!

Please note: Once we have run out of stock, Wash Your Face in Orange Juice will only be available as part of this Triple Pack.

Just arrived from PS Classics...Finian's Rainbow 2009 Broadway Revival Cast

2010-02-05T13:29:00.002+11:00

Finian's Rainbow - 2009 Broadway Revival Cast

The classic American musical Finian's Rainbow returned to Broadway on October 29, 2009, to rave reviews. The New York Times predicted "permanent sunshine" for this "thoroughly winning and joyous" production; Variety hailed it as an "infectious charmer, with one of Broadway’s consistently melodious scores"; while the critic for The Wall Street Journal stated simply, "I don’t think I’ve ever seen a more musically satisfying show."

Featuring some of the wittiest, most heartfelt and memorable songs ever written for the stage (including How Are Things in Glocca Morra?, Old Devil Moon, and Look to the Rainbow), Burton Lane and Yip Harburg’s score – rendered here by a cast of 30 and a full orchestra - remains one of Broadway’s finest.

The acclaimed cast includes Broadway stars Jim Norton, Cheyenne Jackson and Christopher Fitzgerald, plus the wonderful Kate Baldwin in her first Broadway lead role.

Now available from Middle Eight Music...Colette 1980 Original London Cast starring Cleo Laine.

2010-02-05T13:27:00.000+11:00

Colette - 1980 Original London Cast

Available for the first time on CD!

Colette is based on the life of one of France's most celebrated writers. Tracing her career from childhood through three marriages and two World Wars, Colette gives an insight into the life of this fascinating personality, the centre of many a scandal.

The score by Sir John Dankworth gives ample opportunity to demonstrate the incredible talents of Dame Cleo Laine. The three husbands (and the woman) in Colette's life are played by Kenneth Nelson (The Fantasticks) and John Moffatt narrates the story.

Colette opened at London's Comedy Theatre in September 1980.

The CD features sleeve notes by Sir John Dankworth and includes rare production photos.

Digitally remastered from the original master tapes.

Now available from Middle Eight Music, Tim Draxl Live at the Supper Club

2010-01-25T15:35:00.001+11:00

Tim Draxl Live At The Supper Club

New live album - his first in 9 years! - recorded live during his sell-out season in August 2009 at the Supper Club in Sydney.

Now available from Middle Eight Music, Chocolat, the new CD from fabulous Belgian chanteuse Micheline van Hautem.

2009-11-18T17:04:00.003+11:00

Micheline van Hautem - Chocolat

A band, a voice, English originals and French chanson, melt together like the best Belgian chocolate!

This 2008 release, Chocolat, from Belgian chanteuse Micheline van Hautem (formerly of Mich en Scene) is her first solo-CD and is a carefully chosen selection of songs that Micheline has written or passionately interpreted.

Also available from Middle Eight Music......

Micheline Van Hautem & Mich en Scène - Madame

This was the second album released by the fabulous Belgian chanteuse Micheline Van Hautem and Mich en Scène!

Here is how Micheline describes the album....

"Madame is an ode to the women that have inspired me. Ever since I was a young girl I tried to figure out what I could learn through those songs about love, longing and passion: Edith Piaf, Etta James, Jane Birkin, Brenda Lee, Ella Fitzgerald... they are all present on this CD, whether they wrote the song, made it immortal or were the inspiration of the interpretation. There's also a few originals in which we again honor these women: the singer, the mother, the young girl... On 'Madame' I sing in English, French, Dutch and even one song in South African."

Now available from Middle Eight Music..the fabulous ShowQueen CDs!

2009-11-18T13:57:00.003+11:00

ShowQueen Sessions 1: Live at the Supper Club 2008

Trevor Ashley proudly presents ShowQueen Sessions 1 - a brilliant live CD featuring the talents of some of the best of Australian cabaret including Lucinda Shaw, David Harris, Avigail Herman, Matthew Robinson, Amelia Cormack, James Millar, Monique Montez, Christina O’Neill, Josie Lane, Hayden Tee, Margi de Ferranti and Trevor Ashley.

ShowQueen Sessions 2: Live at the Supper Club 2009

Trevor Ashley proudly presents ShowQueen Sessions 2 - a brilliant live CD featuring the talents of some of the best of Australian cabaret including Belinda Wollaston, Shaun Rennie, Mitchell Butel, Lucy Maunder, Phil Scott, Daniel Belle, Natalie Gamsu, Virginia Gay, Bert Labonte, Marika Aubrey, Josie Lane and of course, Trevor Ashley.

Now in stock.....Gutenberg! The Musical!

2009-11-13T15:21:00.000+11:00

Gutenberg! The Musical - Original Off-Broadway Cast

Music and lyrics by Scott Brown and Anthony King.

Starring Christopher Fitzgerald as Bud Davenport and Jeremy Shamos as Doug Simon.

In this two-man musical spoof, a pair of aspiring playwrights perform a backers’ audition for their new project - a big, splashy musical about printing press inventor Johann Gutenberg. With an unending supply of enthusiasm, Bud and Doug sing all the songs and play all the parts in their crass historical epic, with the hope that one of the producers in attendance will give them a Broadway contract – fulfilling their ill-advised dreams.

Gutenberg! The Musical! was the first Off-Broadway transfer for the acclaimed Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre. After the developmental run at UCBT, the show enjoyed its critically acclaimed world premiere at the Jermyn Street Theatre in London in January 2006. These performances featured authors Scott Brown and Anthony King in the starring roles of "Bud" and "Doug."

In September 2006, the U.S. premiere of Gutenberg! The Musical! was presented as part of the third annual New York Musical Theatre Festival, where it received three NYMF Awards, including Excellence in Musical Theatre Writing (Book) for Scott Brown and Anthony King. A limited Off-Broadway engagement followed at the 59E59 Theater in December 2006, followed by a transfer to The Actors' Playhouse in Greenwich Village in January of 2007 now featuring actors Christopher Fitzgerald (Bud) and Jeremy Shamos (Doug). The Off-Broadway production closed on May 6, 2007.

Recently there has been a very successful production here in Australia starring two of our brightest musical theatre stars James Millar (The Hatpin) and David Harris (Miss Saigon).

"A smashing success! Scott Brown and Anthony King are superb comic writers. GUTENBERG! proves that two actors and a cloakroom full of hats can stand up to anything choreographed by Susan Stroman!" - The New York Times

"Go, go, go! It’s the best musical in the history of the world, ever." - The Guardian

"Utterly brilliant … the funniest and cleverest spoof I’ve come across in years … Mel Brooks couldn’t have done it better." - Clive Davis.

Available at Middle Eight Music...David Harris' stunning debut album!

2009-11-13T15:16:00.001+11:00

David Harris - 'Til The Night Is Gone

David Harris is one of Australia’s most acclaimed leading men, having starred in many of the country’s top musical productions including as Miss Saigon (Helpmann Award and Sydney Theatre Award nomination), The Full Monty, Mamma Mia!, The Boy From Oz, Fiddler On The Roof, Thoroughly Modern Millie, Little Women, Gutenberg!, The Pajama Game, Breast Wishes and Damn Yankees. He now presents his debut album, 'Til The Night Is Gone.

With David’s contemporary, lyrical sound and Bev Kennedy on piano, the album features timeless standards such as For All We Know, Bewitched, Always On My Mind and The Way You Look Tonight along with contemporary rock ballads, So Close from Disney’s “Enchanted” and Last Night of the World from “Miss Saigon”, featuring Laurie Cadevida. The album also includes Peter Allen’s rarely recorded Harbour, along with his famous hits I Honestly Love You and I’d Rather Leave While I’m In Love.

"David Harris...makes an impressive CD debut, beginning brilliantly with "Save The Last Dance For Me", turning potboiler pop into something meaningful. So it goes with the rest of the album. His liquid-light tenor voice, with its beguiling falsetto, clear and devoid of artifice, compels attention to the words." - Jim Murphy, The Melbourne Age

"clarion-voiced" - Variety (New York)

Now available from Middle Eight Music...the debut album by Simon Burke

2009-11-05T10:26:00.000+11:00

Simon Burke - Something About Always

Simon's debut album Something About Always is an intimate recording that lets you get to know Simon's rich, powerful and emotive voice, and features two very special guest stars: Connie Fisher and Caroline O'Connor.

Simon writes..."I guess recording your first album is maybe like writing your first novel: you sing what you know. These songs have gotten to know me over the years – in and out of character, in cabaret, at Carnegie Hall; from Play School to the Palladium."

Simon is currently starring as Georges in the new West End production of Jerry Herman's smash hit musical La Cage Aux Folles opposite John Barrowman as Albin.

Now in stock from Harbinger Records!

2009-10-20T15:54:00.001+11:00

Michael Feinstein & Cheyenne Jackson - The Power Of Two

Fabulous new duet album from gay icons, Michael Feinstein and Cheyenne Jackson (currently starring in Finian's Rainbow on Broadway) based on their sell-out show at Feinstein's at the Loew's Regency in June 2009.

"While Feinstein and Jackson are purposefully, progressively, and passionately making a statement in support of Gay Rights in front of the rich and powerful -- which is not the same as singing about being gay in the back room of theater district club -- the pair also make sure that their show cannot be dismissed as a mere political statement. They back up the social significance of their act with so much entertainment pizzazz that the most uptight homophobe just might be dumbstruck by the sheer combined talent of these two exceptional stars." - Barbara & Scott Siegel, Theatermania

Just arrived from Kritzerland..limited edition CD of cast album of Mitch Leigh's musical Cry For Us All

2009-10-20T13:55:00.001+11:00

Cry For Us All - 1970 Original Broadway Cast

Kritzerland is proud to present its newest limited edition release, the 1970 Original Broadway Cast Recording of Cry For Us All, with music by Mitch Leigh and lyrics by William Alfred and starring Joan Diener and Robert Weede.

Hopes were high for Cry For Us All - after all, it was adapted from the hit off-Broadway show, Hogan's Goat, which had run two years; it had music by Mitch Leigh, who'd just had a smash hit with Man Of La Mancha; it had La Mancha's director, Albert Marre, La Mancha's leading lady, Joan Diener, and the brilliant star of The Most Happy Fella, Robert Weede, and the rest of the cast was stellar, with Steve Arlen, Helen Gallagher, Tommy Rall, and many others.

But, after a troubled out-of-town tryout, during which many changes were made, the show opened at the Broadhurst Theater on April 8, 1970 and closed after only nine performances. Perhaps a serious musical melodrama set in 1890 Brooklyn about the trials and tribulations of some power-hungry Irishmen just wasn't what the tired businessman of 1970 was interested in. Despite that, the show was nominated for two Tony Awards - one for best actor in a musical (Robert Weede) and one for set designer Howard Bay (also from the La Mancha team).

The fact is, listening to the tuneful and sometimes operatic score holds many pleasures, especially when the songs are delivered by the brilliant Robert Weede, Joan Diener, and Steve Arlen, along with Miss Gallagher, Mr. Rall, and the large supporting cast. Leigh's score to Man Of La Mancha had been like a breath of fresh air on Broadway (and hearing it every time the show is revived, it's still like a breath of fresh air), and Cry For Us All is filled with his signature rhythms and meter changes and it affords Weede, Diener, Arlen, and company meaty opportunities to dig in to Leigh's tuneful and soaring melodies.

So, discover the delights of Cry For Us All - available for the first time on CD.

NB: The CD is a Limited Edition of 1000 copies only.

Just arrived from PS Classics..a forgotten 20's musical plus three Broadway divas!

2009-10-20T13:52:00.000+11:00

Kitty's Kisses - 2009 Studio Cast

PS Classics continues its forgotten musicals series, which kicked off with Vincent Youmans' Through The Years (unfortunately no longer available) and Kay Swift's Fine & Dandy, with the world premiere recording of the 1926 bright new summer musical delight - Kitty's Kisses.

This tuneful charmer beguiled Broadway audiences in its day spawning several hit songs, but like so many musicals of its era, it faded unfairly into obscurity. The music is by Con Conrad, who took home the first Academy Award for Best Song (The Continental, in 1934); the lyrics are by Gus Kahn, whose standards include: It Had to Be You, I'll See You in My Dreams, and Makin' Whoopee and the book was co-authored by celebrated librettist Otto Harbach (Roberta, Desert Song, and No, No, Nanette!).

Now PS Classics has assembled Broadway's best musicians and an all-star cast including Rebecca Luker (The Secret Garden, Mary Poppins), Danny Burstein (South Pacific), Andréa Burns (In The Heights), Christopher Fitzgerald (Young Frankenstein), Victoria Clark (Light In The Piazza), Kate Baldwin (Finian's Rainbow), Malcolm Gets (The Story Of My Life) and PS Classics' own Philip Chaffin to bring this delightful Jazz Age hit vividly to life.

Rebecca Luker - Greenwich Time

With her new album, Greenwich Time, Broadway star Rebecca Luker (The Secret Garden, Show Boat, The Sound of Music, The Music Man, Nine) gives voice to the work of bold new songwriters while honoring a generation of musical theatre giants - including Jule Styne, John Kander and Maury Yeston - with some of their most deeply personal dramatic ballads.

Each song stands as a self-contained moment of intimacy, at turns comic, tender, and breathtaking, as in 'Summer With You,' the world premiere of the rare song with both music and lyrics by John Kander; the shattering 'Killing Time,' by Jule Styne & Carolyn Leigh; Paul Loesel & Scott Burkell's thrilling 'Ohio, 1904;' and Joseph Thalken & Marshall Barer's witty, sardonic 'Billions of Beautiful Boys.'

Greenwich Time's daring collection of songs celebrates the anticipation, joy, and wonderment of love, and Luker's shimmering, soaring soprano embraces every note.

Kate Baldwin - Let's See What Happens

For her starring role in the Broadway-bound Finian's Rainbow in the spring of 2009, actress-singer Kate Baldwin was hailed by The New York Times as 'a discovery ... her rich, pure soprano riding the crests of the melodies with ease.' The New York Post proclaimed the newcomer 'a real musical theater star,' while Playbill christened her 'our next, best, undiscovered musical comedy heroine.'

While critics were discovering Kate, the actress herself was rediscovering her love for the songs of Finian's Rainbow creators Burton Lane and E.Y. Harburg; when she embarked on her first solo disc, she decided to showcase the work of these legendary songwriters. The result, Let's See What Happens (music direction by Rob Berman, with a special appearance by Jonathan Tunick and His Broadway Moonlighters), is an auspicious debut album from one of Broadway's newest and brightest stars. Equally at home with the tender ease of 'How Are Things in Glocca Morra?' as she is with the swinging drive of 'Come Back to Me,' Kate mines the rich lyrics of the smoldering 'Paris Is a Lonely Town,' exudes romance and wit in the playful 'How About You?,' and brings down the house with the raucous, robust 'I Don't Think I'll End It All Today.'

The songs of Lane and Harburg seem custom-made for Kate's glorious voice.

Liz Callaway - Passage Of Time

Liz Callaway, who landed her first Broadway starring role at the age of 22 in the Maltby-Shire musical Baby, returns with her first solo album in eight years.

This new collection, which ranges from standards to contemporary fare, reveals an actress who has lived a rich life both on and off stage. Liz transforms classics like 'Something Wonderful' and 'Make Someone Happy' into personal songs of depth and perspective, then uncovers new meaning in Stephen Schwartz's 'I'm Not That Girl,' in which a young woman tastes the bitterness of unrequited love, by pairing it with John Bucchino's song of self-preservation 'Just Another Face.' Returning to Baby, she inhabits the quiet anguish of 'Patterns;' revisiting Cats, she offers up a definitive performance of 'Memory,' giving new life to the classic song.

In addition to songs from the stage, Callaway is joined by her sister, the accomplished jazz singer Ann Hampton Callaway, for Carly Simon's anthem to the distant thunder of married life, 'That's the Way I've Always Heard It Should Be.'

With this rewarding series of songs, Liz reveals herself not only as one of Broadway's timeless voices, but as an artist who continues to experience and celebrate the Passage of Time.

Just arrived from the UK...Bluebird the musical!

2009-10-07T10:52:00.000+11:00

Bluebird - 2009 Original Cast

Bluebird is a passionate new musical with music and lyrics by Gareth Peter. It is set during World War Two and charts the story of ordinary people living in extraordinary times. It tells the heartbreaking story of Roberta Jones (Sarah Lark) as she comes to terms with her husband Pete (Stephen Weller) going off to war. Roberta, a nurse, soon meets the charismatic U.S. serviceman Ben (Ramin Karimloo) and a friendship grows, much to the disapproval of best friend, Jane (Abi Finely).

Gareth Peter, a British composer from Northamptonshire, has penned five musicals including the supernatural drama, Escape and an Egyptian retelling of the Prince and the Pauper story, A Million Grains of Sand. It took him two years to create Bluebird, which had a workshop premier in 2008. The album was recorded between February and July 2009

The cast Includes Ramin Karimloo (cast as the Phantom in the new sequel Love Never Dies), Sarah Lark, Stephen Weller, Abi Finley, Gareth Chart, Robert Archibald, Gemma Sutton, Jeff Nicholson, Greg Bradley and Kit Orton.

Stunning debut album from Jennie Mortimer

2009-09-29T16:32:00.000+10:00

Jennie Mortimer - Reflection

Born in Melbourne,Australia, Jennie comes from a professional musical family. She has studied all styles of voice from Classical to Contemporary and has a Diploma in Music Theatre and voice, from Trinity College London. Jennie has worked in musicals, cabaret shows and bands throughout Australia and supported acts such as Boney M and the Village people.

Her debut album "Reflection" is a mixture of Jazz, Music Theatre and Contemporary music.

"This Australian singer sounds terrific, and the orchestra is equally impressive...her rendition of "Losing My Mind" is pure musical theatre" - Andy Probst, the Sondheim Review

"Reflection is the impressive adult contemporary/easy listening debut that features the outstanding vocals of Melbourne, Australia's own Jennie Mortimer. A student of vocal styling, Mortimer has a well disciplined voice great for Broadway and even Disney - in short, she sounds fantastic" - RadioIndy.com

At last available on DVD..the acclaimed Opera Australia Don Giovanni

2009-09-29T16:28:00.002+10:00

Don Giovanni - Opera Australia 1991 (DVD NTSC Zone 1 USA)

At last available on DVD! - but strangely only as an import from the US - The Australian Opera's 1991 production of Don Giovanni starring Jeffrey Black, Lisa Gasteen, Gillian Sullivan, Fiona Janes and David Hobson with the Australian Opera Orchestra conducted by György Fischer.

"The Australian Opera's Don Giovanni is dynamic, elegant and stylishly sung...altogether thrilling." - The Sydney Morning Herald

Now in stock...David Harris' debut album!

2009-09-29T16:22:00.000+10:00

David Harris - 'Til The Night Is Gone

David Harris is one of Australia’s most acclaimed leading men, having starred in many of the country’s top musical productions including as Miss Saigon (Helpmann Award and Sydney Theatre Award nomination), The Full Monty, Mamma Mia!, The Boy From Oz, Fiddler On The Roof, Thoroughly Modern Millie, Little Women, Gutenberg!, The Pajama Game, Breast Wishes and Damn Yankees. He now presents his debut album, 'Til The Night Is Gone.

With David’s contemporary, lyrical sound and Bev Kennedy on piano, the album features timeless standards such as For All We Know, Bewitched, Always On My Mind and The Way You Look Tonight along with contemporary rock ballads, So Close from Disney’s “Enchanted” and Last Night of the World from “Miss Saigon”, featuring Laurie Cadevida. The album also includes Peter Allen’s rarely recorded Harbour, along with his famous hits I Honestly Love You and I’d Rather Leave While I’m In Love.

"clarion-voiced" - Variety (New York)

"incredible Australian talent" - The Advertiser

"Magnificent" - The Melbourne Age

Back in stock...two CDs featuring the fabulous Judi Connelli!

2009-09-25T16:55:00.000+10:00

Judi Connelli - Live In London

This fabulous album was recorded live at the Talk Of London Cabaret Room in 1998. The London critics raved!

"Judi Connelli was the best news to hit the London cabaret scene since I don't know when..In performance she never sells a song short, but goes right out there, grabs hold of it and gives it the full treatment" Michael Dravell - What's On In London

"Connelli consistently goes for the emotional solar plexus" David Benedict - The Observer

"We'll frankly be lucky if it gets better than this all year....she really is one of a kind....It is simply a privilege to be in the presence of such greatness" Mark Shenton - BOZ Magazine

Judi Connelli, Suzanne Johnston, Jennifer McGregor - The 3 Divas

Judi Connelli, Suzanne Johnston and Jennifer McGregor, three of Australia’s most exciting solo performers, toured nationally as The 3 Divas in May/June 2000, blending their unique talents in this celebration of opera, popular song, musicals and cabaret. The program ranges from the best arias and songs from La Boheme, Carmen, The Merry Widow, The King And I and West Side Story, to special arrangements of the music of Gershwin, Bernstein, Sondheim, Rodgers & Hammerstein and Kurt Weill. The pianists are Kellie Dickerson and David King.

Apologies for website problems

2009-09-19T10:19:00.004+10:00

Apologies to anyone who tried to accesss our website or send us an email yesterday - not our fault - our web server decided to close our account! - by mistake - everything is up and running again today :)

Max Peterson
Middle Eight Music

Now available from Middle Eight Music..children's CDs from Cha Cha Sam

2009-09-14T15:48:00.000+10:00

Cha Cha Sam - Up In The Sky

Cha Cha Sam's CD Up In The Sky is a collection of funky songs to encourage creative communication between children ages 2-7 and their grownups. Loaded with love and laughter, Up In The Sky is for children in their early years of growth and discovery. The songs are made in close collaboration with specialists in children’s health, education and disability, so that they are also inclusive of children with special needs.

Cha Cha Sam - Postcards From Nanna

Postcards From Nanna is an album of fantastic contemporary songs about an adventurous Nanna who takes a big trip across Australia with her dog, Ruby and Pauline, her parrot. Along the way they learn about respecting other people's country and other people's ways.

Postcards From Nanna is for ages 4-104, and features songs from Cha Cha Sam's award-winning concert of the same name.

Now in stock!.....a second triple CD pack from Peter Combe

2009-09-14T15:41:00.000+10:00

Peter Combe - Triple Pack 2

Now in stock!.....The second triple CD pack from Peter Combe featuring the albums Live & Rocking (retitled Absolutely Very Best of..Live), Little Groover and Best Friends.

58 wonderful songs for only $29.95!

Now in stock!...Tim's latest show Ready for This? on DVD

2009-09-09T11:15:00.000+10:00

Tim Minchin - Ready For This? (DVD PAL All Regions)

Tim's latest show Ready for This? has enthralled audiences across Australia and around the world and is now available on DVD.

Filmed at the legendary Enmore Theatre in Sydney, this epic show is vintage Minchin: professing his love of boobs and banging on about rationalism whilst playing piano rather nicely n a pair of uncomfortably tight jeans!

The show contains new songs, new rants, a 9-minute beat poem about a hippy, and just enough of his acclaimed Darkside and So Rock stuff to keep the old fans from rioting.

Includes deluxe 28 page songbook with complete lyrics from the show.

"If you haven't caught this comic genius before, sell your grandmother for a ticket!" - Time Out UK

"Not only is Tim Minchin outrageously funny, he is also a beautiful singer and pianist." - The Daily Telegraph

Coming soon..David Harris' debut CD!

2009-09-01T10:49:00.001+10:00

David Harris - 'Til The Night Is Gone

David Harris is one of Australia’s most acclaimed leading men, having starred in many of the country’s top musical productions including as Miss Saigon (Helpmann Award and Sydney Theatre Award nomination), The Full Monty, Mamma Mia!, The Boy From Oz, Fiddler On The Roof, Thoroughly Modern Millie, Little Women, Gutenberg!, The Pajama Game, Breast Wishes and Damn Yankees. He now presents his debut album, 'Til The Night Is Gone.

With David’s contemporary, lyrical sound and Bev Kennedy on piano, the album features timeless standards such as For All We Know, Bewitched, Always On My Mind and The Way You Look Tonight along with contemporary rock ballads, So Close from Disney’s “Enchanted” and Last Night of the World from “Miss Saigon”, featuring Laurie Cadevida. The album also includes Peter Allen’s rarely recorded Harbour, along with his famous hits I Honestly Love You and I’d Rather Leave While I’m In Love.

"clarion-voiced" - Variety (New York)

"incredible Australian talent" - The Advertiser

"Magnificent" - The Melbourne Age

Middle Eight Music now on Twitter

2009-08-21T14:56:00.002+10:00

Hi folks,

Yes Middle Eight has started twittering or is it tweeting!

Check for regular updates on new releases and news.

http://twitter.com/middle8music

Now in stock on both CD and DVD...Chess In Concert!

2009-08-14T11:18:00.002+10:00

Chess in Concert: Live From Royal Albert Hall (2CD)

Chess in Concert: Live From Royal Albert Hall (DVD NTSC Zone 1 USA)

On Monday May 12 and Tuesday May 13, 2008 at the Royal Albert Hall, London, there were two spectacular, standing room only, performances of Chess in Concert, with story and lyrics by Tim Rice and music by Björn Ulvaeus and Benny Andersson, formerly of ABBA.

Leading the cast were top-selling US recording artist, Josh Groban, Broadway’s Idina Menzel (Wicked) and Adam Pascal (Rent), and the West End’s Kerry Ellis (Wicked and We Will Rock You), Clarke Peters (Porgy and Bess) and David Bedella (Jerry Springer, The Opera). Playing The Arbiter was the chart-topping Wet Wet Wet singer, Marti Pellow. Also featured were the
Chess in Concert company, the 100 strong West End Chorus and the City of London Philharmonic with Stephen Disley playing the great organ of the Royal Albert Hall.

Coming soon..a new live DVD from Tim Minchin!

2009-08-14T11:17:00.000+10:00

Tim Minchin - Ready For This? (DVD PAL All Regions)

Tim's latest show Ready for This? has enthralled audiences across Australia and around the world and is now available on DVD.

The show contains new songs, new rants, a 9-minute beat poem about a hippy, and just enough of his acclaimed Darkside and So Rock stuff to keep the old fans from rioting.

DVD Special Features: Includes songbook

Runtime: 105.0 mins

More details soon....

Now in stock..the latest hits from the West End and Broadway

2009-08-14T11:14:00.002+10:00

Sister Act: The Musical - 2009 Original London Cast

OLC recording of musical adaptation of 1992 film with score by Alan Menken and lyrics by Glenn Slater.

Featuring Patina Miller, Sheila Hancock, Ian Lavender, Nicolas Colicos, Ivan De De Freitas, Thomas Goodridge, Claire Greenway, Chris Jarman, Ako Mitchell, Katie Rowley Jones and Julia
Sutton.

9 to 5 - 2009 Original Broadway Cast

Music and lyrics by Dolly Parton

Starring Stephanie J. Block, Allison Janney, Megan Hilty and Mark Kudisch.

All-new musical comedy based on the hit movie features the blockbuster title song plus an exciting new score of 18 original numbers by Dolly Parton that mix Broadway and pop with her signature witty lyrics.

"You won't mistake Parton's words and music for the works of Stephen Sondheim, yet she has a simple, direct way with lyrics and a beguiling sense of melody whether it's country twang, gospel, rhythm 'n' blues, power ballad or sentimental love song." - Michael Kuchwara, Associated Press

"The show is a little bit country and a little bit "How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying." Parton's songs are more than functional, with short, unpredictable phrase lengths and an apt mix of the plaintive and the shrewd." - Newsday, Linda Winer

Now in stock..Jack Thompson reads Henry Lawson

2009-08-14T11:12:00.000+10:00

Jack Thompson - The Campfire Yarns of Henry Lawson

Following the great success of the Banjo Paterson CD, Fine Poets have now turned their attention to the other beloved Aussie bush poet, Henry Lawson, once again enlisting the unique voice of Jack Thompson.

Middle Eight Music July Birthday Sale Ends Next Week!

2009-07-20T16:58:00.001+10:00

20% off all full-price CDs and DVDs!

Lots of Bargains from $9.95!

Huge savings!

July Birthday Sale Terms:

The 20% Discount only applies to items in stock during the sale and excludes all current specials and discount offers.

There will be no back orders.

The discount will be applied manually when we process your order. We will notify you by email of the correct amount and if there are any items which are unavailable. In this case you will have the opportunity to choose again without having to resubmit your details.

Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions.

Just arrived from PS Classics....

2009-07-20T16:54:00.001+10:00

Road Show - 2008 Original Off-Broadway Cast

Attention all Sondheim fans - Road Show is now in stock!

Featuring a book by John Weidman and a score by Stephen Sondheim, Road Show spans 40 years of American history, from the Gold Rush to the Florida real-estate boom in the 1930's.

Press notes for the work read: "Road Show is the story of two brothers whose quest for the American dream turns into a test of morality and judgment that changes their lives in unexpected ways."

The cast includes Tony winner Michael Cerveris and Alexander Gemignani as the eccentric Wilson and Addison Mizner, respectively, with Alma Cuervo as Mama, William Parry as Papa, Claybourne Elder as Hollis and ensemble members Aisha de Haas, Colleen Fitzpatrick, Mylinda Hull, Mel Johnson, Jr., Orville Mendoza, Anne L. Nathan, Tom Nelis, Matt Stocke, William Youmans and Kristine Zbornik.

From PS Classics co-founder Tommy Krasker: "As a record producer, you don’t often get the chance to revisit a Sondheim score on disc. I’ve been blessed with three of those opportunities, the latest being the off-Broadway cast recording of ROAD SHOW (the musical formerly known as Bounce). Those who saw the show when it played the Public Theatre last fall know how far it came from its earlier incarnations; indeed, producing the recording of ROAD SHOW felt like preserving a whole new work. As The New York Times noted, this is a ‘trimmed-down, toughened-up and seriously darkened new edition,’ in which ‘the great living master of the American musical has returned to the shadows where, artistically at least, he has always felt most at home,’ creating in the process ‘a timely metaphor for an economic boom gone bust.’ Even the songs, or fragments of songs, that remain from its earlier incarnation are rethought, given new meaning in context and in performance, and the cast and orchestra – returning to the work two months after the show closed – were at the top of their game; the recording date was one of the most exhilarating I’ve ever run."

Sleeping Beauty Wakes - A GrooveLily Musical

Pop trio GrooveLily and Tony Award-winner Rachel Sheinkin (The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee), who spun the Hans Christian Andersen tale The Little Match Girl into the acclaimed urban hipster musical Striking 12, triumphantly turn another adult-themed fairy tale on its ear. Set in a 21st-century sleep-disorder clinic, Sleeping Beauty Wakes blooms from the subconscious dreams of its main character, whose evasive waking life mirrors the nocturnal one from which she cannot escape.

Originally commissioned by Deaf West Theatre Company, Sleeping Beauty Wakes was hailed by the Hollywood Reporter as "brilliant entertainment," while the LA Daily News found it "a thing of beauty...music just plain rocks."

This premiere recording – filled with the eclectic and harmonious songs that are a GrooveLily signature – is performed by band members Valerie Vigoda, Gene Lewin and Brendan Milburn, who vividly interpret the beguiling characters and driving, hypnotic melodies they dreamed into being.

Just arrived from Kritzerland..the one and only Carol Channing!

2009-07-08T15:03:00.000+10:00

Show Girl - 1961 Musical Revue starring Carol Channing

Kritzerland is proud to present the first ever CD release of the Original Cast Recording of Show Girl, starring Carol Channing along with Jules Munshin and Les Quat' Jeudis.

Show Girl, a musical revue with songs and sketches by Charles Gaynor, opened on Broadway January 12, 1961. Miss Channing received not only critical love letters but also a Tony nomination for Best Actress. It was, by all accounts, a tour de force performance on stage and it's captured brilliantly on the cast album. Very much of its time, the material is still somehow fresh and funny (and some of it is surprisingly topical), and Mr. Gaynor's songs are tuneful and clever.

Jules Munshin and Les Quat' Jeudis lend excellent support, and if you're at all a fan of Miss Channing or the old-fashioned musical revue, then Show Girl is just the front row seat you're looking for. And if you've never heard Miss Channing do "The Inside Story" you might find yourself falling out of that front row seat, howling with laughter!

The CD is a Limited Edition of 1000 copies only.

Now in stock from Ghostlight Records.......

2009-07-08T14:59:00.001+10:00

Hair - 2009 New Broadway Cast

The latest Broadway revival of Hair featuring book and lyrics by the late Gerome Ragni and James Rado and music by Galt MacDermot, opened to rave reviews on Broadway March 31, 2009 at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre. Under the direction of Diane Paulus, Hair arrived on Broadway after a run as part of the Public Theater's Shakespeare in the Park 2008.

The cast features Will Swenson as Berger, Tony nominee Gavin Creel as Claude, Sasha Allen as Dionne, Caissie Levy as Sheila, Allison Case as Crissy, Kacie Sheik as Jeanie, Bryce Ryness as Woof, Darius Nichols as Hud, Megan Lawrence as Mother and Andrew Kober as Margaret Mead/Dad.

"This emotionally rich revival..delivers what Broadway otherwise hasn't felt this season: the intense, unadulterated joy and anguish of that bi-polar state called youth." - Ben Brantley, The New York Times

"If this explosive production doesn't stir something in you, it might be time to check your pulse!" - Variety

Winner of Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical.

Now in stock from Stage Door UK

2009-07-08T14:55:00.000+10:00

Larry Kert - Spotlight On Larry Kert

Larry Kert shot to fame originating the role of Tony in the Leonard Bernstein/Stephen Sondheim musical 'West Side Story'. After opening on Broadway, Kert released his first solo album 'Larry Kert Sings' an unusual selection of calypso songs. This was later followed by the more commercial album 'Larry Kert Sings Leonard Bernstein' (presented here in stereo) - showcasing songs from 'West Side Story', 'On The Town' and 'Wonderful Town'.

Throughout the sixties, Kert starred in a series of Broadway flops but returned to prominence with a Tony nomination for his role in Sondheim's 'Company' a role he reprised in London's West End.

This Stage Door Records collection marks the first retrospective release of one of Broadway's most missed and underrated performers.

Tony-Award Winning Musical now in stock

2009-07-02T14:29:00.001+10:00

Next to Normal - 2009 Original Broadway Cast (2CD)

From Ghostlight Records, an exciting new musical - yes it's a rock musical about mental illness - but when it opened on Broadway, it had the New York critics raving!

Music by Tom Kitt and lyrics and book by Brian Yorkey

Featuring Alice Ripley, Adam Chanler-Berat, Jennifer Damiano, Louis Hobson, J. Robert Spencer and Aaron Tveit.

"Next to Normal" covers a challenging subject, no question. That it's hopeful and uplifting, not depressing, is more than a triumph - it's next to wondrous...As the unmoored mother, Ripley gives a towering performance that leaves you tongue-tied for superlatives." - Joe Dziemianowicz, New York Daily News

"It's a tough sell: a rock musical about mental illness... But composer Tom Kitt and lyricist-librettist Brian Yorkey chose to devote two hours and 20 minutes (and nearly 40 songs) to this generally unappealing subject; the result, in Next to Normal, is incongruously, sometimes agonizingly beautiful." - Melissa Rose Bernardo, Entertainment Weekly

"Simply put, "Next to Normal" is truly one of the most powerful, surprising and invigorating original musicals in recent memory, reminding us how it's possible for contemporary musical theater to hook an audience entirely through the strength of its storytelling. This dynamic musical should not be missed." - Matt Windman, amNewYork

"Next to Normal...one of the most adventurous and satisfying musicals of the season." - Michael Kuchwara

"brave, breathtaking musical...Ms. Ripley is giving what promises to be the musical performance of the season." - Ben Brantley, The New York Times

Featuring Alice Ripley, Adam Chanler-Berat, Jennifer Damiano, Louis Hobson, J. Robert Spencer and Aaron Tveit.

Winner of 3 Tony Awards including Best Original Score and Best Performance by a Leading Actress in a Musical (Alice Ripley).

Now in stock from Sepia UK.....

2009-05-29T16:41:00.001+10:00

Bitter Sweet - 1958 Studio Cast

Bitter Sweet is possibly Noel Coward’s best known work and considered his best by many. Whether it is an operetta, that was what Coward called it; or a musical is open to debate but what we have is a dramatically romantic piece, beautifully crafted and filled with a rich score which introduced such memorable songs like I’ll See You Again, If Love Were All, Dear Little Café, Kiss Me and Zigeuner.

Bitter Sweet opened in London in July 1929 at His Majesty’s theatre where it ran for 697 performances. Peggy Wood and George Metaxa starred. The New York production opened 4 months later with Evelyn Laye in the leading role. The success of the show in London led to a production in French presented in Paris a year later starring Jane Marnac.

The popular numbers were recorded on 78s from the London and Paris productions. Evelyn Laye recorded two songs from the show when she returned to London but as these were recorded in pre LP days fans had to wait until 1958 before the first Bitter Sweet LP was issued in both mono and stereo versions. Although not complete, the eleven tracks offered listeners the opportunity to enjoy the score in an enhanced recording. The studio cast version was headed by Vanessa Lee and Roberto Cardinali and included Rita Williams, Jean Alister, Mary Thomas, Dorothy Dorow, Julia Dawn and John Hauxvell.

This CD release features the stereo recordings from the 1958 LP plus the major hit songs performed by the three leading ladies - Peggy Wood, Evelyn Laye and Jane Marnac - recorded almost 30 years earlier. To complete this revisit to Bitter Sweet Sepia have also included the Master himself singing I’ll See You Again.

Ethel Merman - Memories

Ethel Merman, Queen of Broadway, recorded Memories in 1955 at the height of her vocal powers. The album contained a medley of songs that took the listener on a journey through musical America from the 1890s to the 1920s. On some of the songs, Merman, by utilising the multi-layered recording technique, was given the opportunity to duet and even trio with herself. Vocally she was never better and the recording is marked by the musical characteristics that made Merman a songwriter’s delight - a total respect for the meaning of the songs’ lyrics, musical accuracy and a natural instinct for landing right on top of the orchestration, thus making the album the exciting star turn it was and remains over fifty years later.

Another release for Merman in 1955 was A Musical Autobiography which reviewed her career to date. The 2 LP set drew on previously recorded material from Merman’s shows but it also featured fifteen new recordings with Buddy Cole and his Combo. Those new recordings are also included on this CD release.

Now in stock...the latest in the Broadway Musicals By The Year Series

2009-05-29T16:37:00.002+10:00

Broadway Musicals Of 1956

The New York Town Hall presents Broadway Musicals of 1956 - a bumper year for Broadway! - the year of My Fair Lady, Most Happy Fella and Bells Are Ringing plus Candide, Happy Hunting, Li'l Abner, Mr Wonderful and New Faces of 1956.

Featuring Devin Richards, Brandon Cuttrell, John Treacy Egan, Christine Andreas, Mark Kudisch, Ashley Brown, Brent Barrett, Connie Pachl, Emily Skinner and Rachelle Rak.

Just arrived from PS Classics....

2009-05-29T16:33:00.000+10:00

Stephanie J. Block - This Place I Know

After starring opposite Hugh Jackman in The Boy From Oz, in the title role of The Pirate Queen, and as Elphaba in Wicked, the dynamic Stephanie J. Block is back on Broadway this spring, wowing audiences in 9 to 5: The Musical.

For her debut solo album, THIS PLACE I KNOW, she has gathered an amazing array of award-winning musical theatre songwriters. Composer Stephen Flaherty accompanies Stephanie for the recording premiere of his "Something Beautiful," while Stephen Schwartz assumes the piano on "Making Good," the driving ballad Stephanie originated in WICKED's initial workshops. Marvin Hamlisch not only accompanies but arranges his own "Smart Women," cut from the Broadway play with music IMAGINARY FRIENDS, while country music legend Dolly Parton joins vocal forces with Stephanie to reinvent her 1974 classic, "I Will Always Love You." In fact, every track finds the composer joining Stephanie to interpret his or her song; THIS PLACE I KNOW also features collaborations with Deborah Abramson, Scott Alan, Zina Goldrich, Marcy Heisler, Andrew Lippa, Paul Loesel, Steve Marzullo, and Claude-Michel Schonberg. Nine of the thirteen tracks are premiere recordings.

The Story Of My Life - 2009 Original Broadway Cast

Neil Bartram and Brian Hill’s new musical had an all-too-short run on Broadway - THE STORY OF MY LIFE is about the unlikely friendship between a writer – one who tells stories – and a bookseller – one who lives among them. It’s about small moments that pass by unnoticed but have reverberations long into the future. And it’s a love story of sorts, about two souls – Alvin (Malcolm Gets) and Thomas (Will Chase) – who meet in grade school, become best friends, and forever change each other’s lives.

Steven Pasquale - Somethin' Like Love

Before he was hijacked by Hollywood to play fireman Sean Garrity on FX’s long-running hit series Rescue Me, Steve Pasquale wowed theatre audiences in such shows as Spitfire Grill, The Light in the Piazza (for which he created the lead role of Fabrizio), and his Outer Critics Circle and Drama Desk-nominated performance in Flaherty and Ahrens' A Man of No Importance.

His debut solo album from PS Classics is a collection of romantic, jazz-tinged classics, in which Steve unbuttons his collar and rolls up his sleeves as he offers signature interpretations of some of the most enduring standards in the Great American Songbook.

Malcolm Gets - The Journey Home

After forging an acclaimed career as a star of Broadway (Amour, A New Brain, The Story Of My Life) and television (Caroline In The City), Malcolm Gets retraces his musical roots in his debut album, The Journey Home. Rediscovering his diverse musical touchstones, he digs deep into beloved classics (Long Before I Knew You), takes on anthems both raucous (It's A Fine Life) and romantic (Look To The Rainbow) and mines the passion and pathos in newer ballads like William Finn's Anytime and the title track.

Now available from Middle Eight Music....Hayden Tee's new album

2009-05-20T16:46:00.001+10:00

Hayden Tee - Generation WhY? LIVE

Here's how Hayden describes his second album:

"The initial idea came from a musical director I was working with in London in 2005. Bjorn Dobbelaere suggested I listen to some 1980's material as a possible match for my voice type...I was instantly reminded of the music that was playing on the radio and television throughout my early life..we invited an audience into Trackdown Recording Studios at Fox Studios Australia and over two shows recorded the 12 tracks on this album. I hope you enjoy the soundtrack of my generation as much as I enjoyed living, performing and recording it."

Generation WhY? LIVE features inspired re-workings of the some of the greatest hits of the ‘Y Generation’ with arrangements by Nigel Ubrihien.

"I think 'Generation WhY' Live' is exquisite! Hayden has a stunning voice and diction. The production is first class and powerful. The Choir and musicians excel." - Paul Dickson - Former CEO Festival Mushroom Records

In stock...The Toxic Avenger Musical!

2009-05-20T16:41:00.000+10:00

The Toxic Avenger Musical - 2008 Original Off-Broadway Cast

New musical based on the 1985 cult film classic and featuring music and lyrics by David Bryan (keyboardist and founding member of Bon Jovi), book and lyrics by Joe DiPietro (I Love You, You re Perfect, Now Change) and musical direction by Tony Award-winner John Rando (Urinetown).

New Jersey's first superhero takes the stage in this rock 'n' roll monster of a musical comedy. Thrown into a vat of toxic goo by two bullies, a mild-mannered science student named Melvin Ferd the Third is reborn as a one-of-a-kind environmental crusader, The Toxic Avenger. Armed with superhuman strength and a heart as big as Newark, he's out to save New Jersey, end global warming and woo the prettiest, blindest librarian in town. He'll leave you laughing as he rocks the house and saves the Earth for all mankind.

Now in stock...Banjo Boy the musical about Meredith Willson

2009-05-20T16:40:00.001+10:00

Banjo Boy - 2008 Original Cast

New musical about the youthful adventures of Meredith Willson (The Music Man) with music and lyrics by Randolph Hobler.

Banjo Boy is a glorious celebration of American Music, of American diversity, and of the life of Meredith Willson.

It is a bio-musical with a twist - from heaven an elderly Meredith Willson goes back to 1928 to change three notes of his personal life, including repairing his non-existent relationship with his father. His adventures upon running away from home include meeting a young Louis Armstrong, tracking down an elderly John Philip Sousa in San Francisco, falling in love with Zi Ling, a Chinese mui tsai (indentured servant), forming a group - The Banjo Boys - and returning home to Mason City, Iowa to help win the Iowa High School Band contest with his own song and win back the love of his father.

Banjo Boy premiered in Fairfield, Iowa, at the Stephen Sondheim Performing Arts Center in August 2008.

Now available from Middle Eight Music...Next To Normal the hit Broadway Musical!

2009-05-20T16:35:00.003+10:00

Next to Normal - 2009 Original Broadway Cast (2CD)

Now in stock from Ghostlight Records, an exciting new musical - yes it's a rock musical about mental illness - but when it opened this month on Broadway, it had the New York critics raving!

Music by Tom Kitt and lyrics and book by Brian Yorkey

Featuring Alice Ripley, Adam Chanler-Berat, Jennifer Damiano, Louis Hobson, J. Robert Spencer and Aaron Tveit.

"Next to Normal" covers a challenging subject, no question. That it's hopeful and uplifting, not depressing, is more than a triumph - it's next to wondrous...As the unmoored mother, Ripley gives a towering performance that leaves you tongue-tied for superlatives." - Joe Dziemianowicz, New York Daily News

"It's a tough sell: a rock musical about mental illness... But composer Tom Kitt and lyricist-librettist Brian Yorkey chose to devote two hours and 20 minutes (and nearly 40 songs) to this generally unappealing subject; the result, in Next to Normal, is incongruously, sometimes agonizingly beautiful." - Melissa Rose Bernardo, Entertainment Weekly

"Simply put, "Next to Normal" is truly one of the most powerful, surprising and invigorating original musicals in recent memory, reminding us how it's possible for contemporary musical theater to hook an audience entirely through the strength of its storytelling. This dynamic musical should not be missed." - Matt Windman, amNewYork

"Next to Normal...one of the most adventurous and satisfying musicals of the season." - Michael Kuchwara

"brave, breathtaking musical...Ms. Ripley is giving what promises to be the musical performance of the season." - Ben Brantley, The New York Times

Now in stock from Stage Door...Napoleon the musical!

2009-05-20T16:30:00.001+10:00

Napoleon - 1994 Original Canadian Cast

Stage Door are proud to present highlights from the original 1994 cast recording of the musical, NAPOLEON with music by Timothy Williams and lyrics by Andrew Sabiston.

Canada's most expensive musical was staged at the Elgin Theatre, Toronto and starred Jerome Pradon as Napoleon and Aline Mowat as Josephine. The show was later staged in London's West End at the Shaftesbury Theatre in 2000 and this release coincides with a new updated concert performance in April 2009 at the TIFT Theatre, Barrie, Ontario.

From commoner, to the heights of power, to a man destroyed, the story of NAPOLEON charts the journey of that ‘Child of the Revolution’ who believed to fault in the power of human potential. Blindly pushing forward the boundaries of human greatness, Napoleon loses sight of his own humanity in his willingness to sacrifice all he holds dear at the altar of his ambition.

Recorded in the days leading up to the musical’s premiere, this album features an augmented orchestra of 35 players and the entire original cast of 32 from the first production of NAPOLEON which opened in Toronto in March 1994.

NB: This CD will be a limited edition pressing of only 500 units worldwide.

Geraldine Quinn's new CD available through Middle Eight Music

2009-05-05T15:36:00.002+10:00

Geraldine Quinn - Scream 'Jarvis Cocker' When You're Losing

Eagerly awaited new album by one of Australia's funniest rock-cabaret-songwriter-comedians.

Geraldine has just completed a sell-out season at the 2009 Melbourne International Comedy Festival.

"Quinn has been called a "female Tim Minchin" and Hex and the City is further proof that the next male cabaret star will surely be dubbed, "the next Geraldine Quinn." - Elisa Ghisalberti, Australian Stage Online, 16/04/09

Recorded live at the East Brunswick Club, Melbourne 29/10/08.

WARNING: Contains foul language, adult themes, Bowie references and violence towards dolphins!

Now in stock at Middle Eight ...Rock + Roll Nerd - The Tim Minchin Story

2009-05-01T14:34:00.002+10:00

Rock + Roll Nerd - The Tim Minchin Story (DVD PAL All Zones)

Filmed over 3 years, ROCK + ROLL NERD is an intimate tale that charts Tim Minchin's meteoric rise of from obscurity to celebrity. Capturing every agonising moment of his climb from dingy cabaret rooms to the world stage, the documentary weaves never-before-seen performance footage, backstage antics, home footage and candid interviews into a funny and deeply personal story of love and ambition.

DVD Special Features:

- Extra performances from Melbourne 2006.
- Never before seen footage of Tim writing a musical
- Deleted scenes from the film and more.

"... delightful and uplifting... ROCK n ROLL NERD is a beautiful portrait of a fascinating, brilliant and very funny performer who seems thankful for, yet genuinely mystified, by his own popularity.....Entertaining, touching, uplifting and funny as hell, I have no hesitation in calling this a must-see." - Tim Martin, Sunday Tasmanian

"An engaging documentary... The refreshingly honest, warts 'n' all coverage secured by first-time filmmaker Rhian Skirving is the trump card here." - Leigh Paatsch, Herald Sun

"Fabulous revealing, often painfully honest documentary... This is easily one of the best documentaries made about modern show business, and again underscores how adept Australian filmmakers are with the form." - Jim Schembri, The Melbourne Age

Also available...

Tim Minchin - Ready For This

At last - an exciting new CD from Tim - released in time for his 2009 Australasian tour!

Recorded at the Queen Elizabeth Hall on London’s Southbank in December 2008, Ready For This features 14 tracks arranged for a four-piece band and a 'frickin' string quartet!...and includes all the songs from Tim's current touring show.

And his other two CDs, Dark Side and So Rock are now available at a special price of only $15.00!

Now in stock...from Kritzerland..two limited edition CDs

2009-04-21T15:29:00.004+10:00

Illya Darling - 1967 Original Broadway Cast

Kritzerland is proud to present the first ever CD release of the Original Cast Recording of Illya Darling, with a score by Manos Hadjidakis and Joe Darion.

The original cast album was issued by United Artists, who had funded the show in full. That LP put the songs in a completely different order than they were in the show. For this first-ever CD release, Kritzerland have put the songs back in show order and have given the proper titles to any that were renamed for the LP. In going through the session tapes, Bruce made the incredible discovery that two songs were recorded but not used on the LP - the show's opening number "Po, Po, Po" and a number called "Birthday Song." Both songs were transferred and mixed from the four-track session tapes and put where they belong in the show's song order. Hearing the show with those two numbers and everything in show order is something of a revelation.

The colorful cast includes an incandescent Melina Mercouri, Orson Bean, Titos Vandis, Nikos Kourkoulos, Rudy Bond, Hal Linden, and Joe E. Marks.

The CD has been mastered from the original album master tapes (and for the two added songs, from the original four-track session tapes) and is a Limited Edition of 1000 copies only.

Anya The Musical Musical - 1965 Original Broadway Cast

Kritzerland present the first ever CD release of the Original Cast Recording of Anya The Musical Musical, with a score by Robert Wright and George Forrest (based on themes by Sergei Rachmaninov).

Anya, the musical version of Anastasia, opened on Broadway at the end of 1965 at the Ziegfeld Theater and lasted a mere fifteen performances. Nobody would have predicted that a new musical by the team that wrote Kismet (here doing to Rachmaninov what in Kismet they did to Borodin), written by George Abbott and Guy Bolton, and direction by George Abbott would end up being such a troubled production and such a huge flop.

Happily, United Artists Records went ahead and recorded the cast album and, thanks to Bruce Kimell's Kritzerland, it is finally available on CD. Whatever the show's problems (it's been revised several times since), the album is filled with glorious music, excellent performances, and is indeed a most musical musical. The Rachmaninoff "themes" are masterfully used by Wright and Forrest (no one was better at that sort of thing than they were), and Don Walker's orchestrations and Harold Hastings' musical direction make the most out of all of those gorgeous melodies.

The wonderful cast includes Constance Towers, Michael Kermoyan, Lillian Gish, Irra Petina and George S. Irving.

New liner notes are by Walter Willison (Tony-nominee for Two By Two), who was very close to Wright and Forrest.

This CD is a limited edition of 1000 copies only.

Now available on CD - Spontaneous Broadway!

2009-04-09T13:29:00.002+10:00

Spontaneous Broadway - Greatest Hits

Now available on CD - the greatest hits of the smash hit show Spontaneous Broadway now playing at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival.

The original Spontaneous Broadway premiered in New York in 1995. This Australian version has been around since 2000.

Here is how it goes...audience members place their song and musical suggestions into the ‘Bucket of Dreams’. Songs are created from titles supplied by the audience. Solos, duets, dance numbers and plot lines are all improvised before your eyes. The audience's favourite is then performed as an entire musical by the incredible team of improvisers!

Cast: Russell Fletcher (Randy Fleishman, Host), Julia Zemiro (Sally Anne de Finklestein), Geoff Paine (Chad Bradley), Genevieve Morris (Dame Helen Highwater), Ross Daniels (Gordon Supwell) and John Thorn, piano.

Now in stock.....Lorna Luft Live in Oz

2009-04-01T16:20:00.000+11:00

Lorna Luft - Live In Oz (DVD PAL All Regions)

Following on from Lorna’s UK tour of her show “Songs My Mother Taught Me” celebrating the musical legacy of her mum Judy Garland, and a series of concerts with Rufus Wainwright playing Carnegie Hall, The London Palladium and the Hollywood Bowl, Lorna excels in this exclusive and intimate show filmed at The Factory Theatre in Sydney on 29th February 2008.

"Luft belts the songs with fully committed vitality, delivering with passion and honesty. Luft infuses it with uplifting joy. The singer’s time has come" - Daily Variety

"Affectionate, amusing… a knock out" - New York Post

DVD extras:

* ‘Lorna’s song’ video clip featuring Judy Garland
* Backstage interview with Lorna
* Photo Gallery
* Biography

Iota's Hedwig...at last available on CD!

2009-04-01T16:16:00.001+11:00

Hedwig And The Angry Inch - 2007 Original Australian Cast

At last available on CD!

Studio recording featuring iOTA as Hedwig and Blazey Best as Yitzhak.

Now in stock...Barbra Streisand The Concerts

2009-04-01T16:11:00.000+11:00

Barbra Streisand - The Concerts (3DVD PAL Zone 4)

A magnificent 3 Disc DVD box set capturing Barbra Streisand live in concert, including extensive never before released footage!

In October 2006 Streisand embarked on her first North American tour in over a decade and her first tour of continental Europe ever. Thrilling both audiences and critics alike and setting new box office records at the same time.

This stunning DVD collection includes:

Disc 1: Features the previously unreleased Fort Lauderdale show captured during her "Timeless Tour" in October 2006, with special guest artists, Il Divo.

Disc 2: Features the classic 1994 show at Arrowhead Pond, Anaheim, California. A sensational event which documented her first concert tour in 28 years.

Disc 3: Previously unreleased on DVD, "Putting it Together" – takes you behind the scenes of the making of the Broadway album.....plus performances taking from the TV Specials.

Production Company 2009 Season Announced!

2009-04-01T16:01:00.001+11:00

The critically acclaimed Melbourne-based Production Company's 2009 season has just been announced!

The season will open with Gershwin's Crazy For You (15-19 July) with a fabulous cast including Christopher Parker, Natalie O'Donnell, Chloe Dallimore, Robyn Arthur, Adam Murphy, Chris Horsey and Alan Brough.

Next will be Sandy Wilson's The Boy Friend (12-16 August) with Rhonda Burchmore, Esther Hannaford, Kellie Rode, Alex Rathgeber and Grant Smith.

The season will conclude with David Yazbek's Broadway hit musical Dirty Rotten Scoundrels (30 Sept-4 Oct) with an all-star cast including Simon Burke, Matt Hetherington, Marina Prior and Grant Piro.

2009 Melbourne International Comedy Festival

2009-03-30T15:27:00.007+11:00

The world-famous Melbourne International Comedy Festival for 2009 takes place from 1-26 April.

Check out our Melbourne International Comedy Festival page for CDs and DVDs by the following artists appearing at the festival - Tim Minchin, The Kransky Sisters, Geraldine Quinn, Danny Bhoy, The Scared Weird Little Guys and Spontaneous Broadway.

At last - a new CD from Tim Minchin!

2009-03-14T12:20:00.003+11:00

Tim Minchin - Ready For This

At last - an exciting new CD from Tim - released in time for his 2009 Australasian tour!

Recorded at the Queen Elizabeth Hall on London’s Southbank in December 2008, Ready For This features 14 tracks arranged for a four-piece band and a 'frickin' string quartet!...and includes all the songs from Tim's current touring show.

And his other two CDs, Dark Side and So Rock are now available at a special price of only $15.00!

Greetings from Broadway

2009-02-24T02:32:00.004+11:00

Greetings from the Big Apple - having a ball - lots of shows - if you want to follow our progress, check out the Max and Neil in New York Blog

Now in stock....David Hobson and Teddy Tahu Rhodes

2009-02-20T02:19:00.002+11:00

David Hobson and Teddy Tahu Rhodes - You'll Never Walk Alone

Their one-off duet from Bizet’s The Pearl Fishers became one of the most-played tracks in Australian recording history, topping the Classic 100 Opera survey and featuring in countless CD compilations. Now, for the first time, operatic superstars David Hobson and Teddy Tahu Rhodes have joined forces to record an entire album of glorious duets for tenor and bass.

In an atmosphere of high emotion at the end of 2008, the two friends assembled at Eugene Goossens Hall in Sydney to record much-loved songs of hope, faith and glory, as if in defiance of the glum mood of the times brought on by the world economic crisis. Both artists brought with them their wish-lists of favourite songs designed to uplift the spirit and to showcase the uncanny beauty of their two voices when joined together.

Highlights of a luminous album include O Holy Night, Amazing Grace, Abide With Me, and sublime solo versions of the spiritual Poor Wayfaring Stranger and Leonard Cohen’s classic Hallelujah.

Now available from Middle Eight Music..Caroline Nin

2009-02-10T18:09:00.001+11:00

Caroline Nin - Hymne à Edith Piaf

Caroline Nin is the classic femme fatale, one that charms, intrigues and turns your imagination into a plethora of images, stories and memories through her mesmerizing personality, her captivating, rich voice and her unique musical interpretations of a repertoire ranging from Piaf to Greco, Dietrich to Brel. She was born in Paris and made her debut in the late 80’s at ‘The Hollywood Savoy’, swing and jazz venue, where she quickly attracted the attention of its punters interpreting the songs of Ella, Holiday and Vaughan and many other jazz icons that inspired her at the time. In the early 90’s Nin moved to London. In 2002, Caroline set foot for the first time in Australia where her second album “Scarlet Stories” was recorded live at the Adelaide Cabaret Festival. Since then Caroline has become a frequent visitor down under, performing in Adelaide, Sydney and Melbourne to ecstatic reviews.

"When Nin sings in her soulful, just husky-enough voice, the room strains to listen and hairs on the backs of necks stand up. an evening rich in poignant poetry." - Simon Ferguson, Daily Telegraph, Sydney

"Nin is a rare talent who is the perfect performer to present this moving bilingual tribute to France's acclaimed Little Sparrow." - Matt Byrne, Adelaide Cabaret Festival, The Sunday Times, June 2007.

"Caroline Nin supplies a shot of pure cabaret directly to your bloodstream." - The Age, 2002

Coming in Februrary..a new CD from David Hobson and Teddy Tahu Rhodes!

2009-01-15T16:38:00.001+11:00

Now available from Middle Eight Music..one of Melbourne's most exciting emerging artists!

2008-12-20T12:45:00.001+11:00

James Smith - Hurrying Home

Captivating audiences with his fresh, soulful sound, James Smith is one of Melbourne's most exciting emerging artists. This outstanding vocalist holds his audience in raptures, wooing them with his diverse repertoire of pop, folk, acoustic sets. His original work is addictive, drawing you into story with swoops of energy and intimacy.

Trained at Ballarat Arts Academy in Music theatre performance, James entered the Melbourne theatre scene with show stealing performances, including his best supporting actor nomination for "Angel" in the Broadway hit musical RENT. A versatile singer/songwriter, James recently completed a solo acoustic tour of regional Victoria, as well as concerts in Melbourne promoting his new album "Hurrying Home". James is currently in the cast of Wicked The Musical, now playing at the Regent Theatre Melbourne, Australia.

"Music is my life, singing is my way of connecting to the world, there is nothing better then a small intimate audience listening to your songs."

All songs written by James Smith.

Middle Eight Music Pre-Christmas Sale now on!

2008-12-06T12:09:00.003+11:00

15% off all full-price CDs and DVDs!

Stocking Fillers from $9.95!

Huge savings!

Christmas Sale Terms:

The 15% Discount only applies to items in stock during the sale and excludes all current specials and discount offers.

There will be no back orders.

The discount will be applied manually when we process your order. We will notify you by email of the correct amount and if there are any items which are unavailable. In this case you will have the opportunity to choose again without having to resubmit your details.

Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions and of course if you are in Melbourne, drop in and have a glass of bubbly!

Remember for this weekend we will be open Saturday and Sunday from 10 am till 4 pm.

Now in stock from Stage Door UK...Hermione Gingold

2008-12-04T11:09:00.000+11:00

Hermione Gingold - Live At The Cafe De Paris 1953

Hermione Gingold is probably best known for her performances in the films Gigi, The Music Man and A Little Night Music - however her career originated in London revues of the 30s and 40s. Her popular appearances in revue created a back catalogue of signature songs which Hermione would regularly perform. Hermione later found success in America but returned to London in 1953 to perform at the Cafe De Paris. This live performance has remained unreleased until now.

The bonus tracks featured are selections from Gingold's solo album 'La Gingold' and duets with Gilbert Harding.

Handmade Leather Bags now available at Middle Eight Music

2008-12-02T16:18:00.001+11:00

Handmade Leather Bags from Billy Goat Designs

Middle Eight Music are pleased to offer a range of beautiful handmade leather bags and accessories from Billy Goat Designs.

Each of these bags is individually made by experienced craftspeople in India using goat leather. The leather is strong and durable and yet it is light in weight and will age beautifully, becoming softer and more flexible over time. Being handmade, each bag is slightly different and there may be variations in the colour and texture of the leather.

The leather used for these bags is not chemically treated so it retains a lovely, distinctive earthy smell which fades over time.

Broadway Unplugged 4 now available

2008-12-02T16:16:00.000+11:00

Broadway Unplugged 4 - Live At New York Town Hall 2007

Starring some of Broadway's best performers singing without amplification, the Broadway Unplugged concerts have turned into a religious pilgrimage for purists desperate for the sound of the naked human voice. Scott Siegel's lineup this year was the best yet, with highlights including Aaron Lazar's spell-binding opener "Something's Comin'," Bill Daugherty's mesmerizing "Sit Down, You're Rockin' the Boat," Lorinda Lisitza's haunting "Surabaya Johnny," Marc Kudisch's galvanic rendering of "I Was Here" from Flaherty and Ahrens' The Glorious Ones, and an inspired pairing of heartthrobs David Burnham and Max von Essen singing "Who Will Love Me as I Am?" from the cult musical Side Show.