BWW Reviews: YOU ARE HOME - The Songs of Anderson & Petty

You are Home: The Songs of Anderson & Petty is Barry Anderson and Mark Petty's debut songbook album and like their transatlantic working relationship, the recording also showcases talent from both sides of the pond. A range of genres are performed meaning there is something for everyone. The recording is a preview of their work that will be performed at the St James Studio in London in March, prior to a concert in New York in August. As well as writing the musical numbers, Anderson & Petty also co-produced the album alongside Dennis Michael Keefe from record label Great White Wax.

It is difficult to single anyone out completely as the entire songbook creates an incredibly emotional journey. Ultimately 'Forever Child' is where the album takes off to a new level. Gina Beck's beautiful soprano tones complement the song in the best possible way and it is a definite personal favourite.

There are a large number of ballads but occasionally a number crops up to bring you back to reality for a moment, such as 'Superman' by Autumn Hurlbert which develops over the three-minute song with an almost rock vibe. Her biggest role to date was in Legally Blonde in the US and she is evidently an incredible talent who it would be great to hear more of in the UK.

Our homegrown performers definitely give the US artists a run for their money and the overall mix is a great blend. Very special voices appear in the form of Cynthia Erivo and Kieran Brown in particular. The bonus track 'Stand Up' is an interesting choice for the songbook as it certainly has a different sentiment and genre. It is sung brilliantly by Sophia Ragavelas and is the one that is most memorable.

You are Home: The Songs of Anderson & Petty is available digitally on Amazon and iTunes and in physical form from Amazon.com.

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