Reviews
CLICK ON LOGO TO SEE
REVIEWS
To order the CD click on the Logo above the review.
reviews
Freeway Dreams
(Original Cast Album)
"If you attended the Cabaret Convention last fall at Town Hall, you will
remember composer Wayne Moore and his wife, Brenda Silas-Moore
who stopped the show with two songs: "A Big Woman Needs A Big
Man" and "The Bette Davis Chorus". These two songs come from this
intimate musical for which Moore wrote the music and lyrics and
collaborated with Michael Greer on the book. The show involves five
commuters who are stuck on the L.A. Freeway. The musical focuses on
each character and his/her respective daydreams. The lyrics are
witty and clever and telling about each of the characters. This was
originally produced at Tom Rolla's Gardenia in Los Angeles and would
make a welcome addition to cabaret/theatre pieces here in Manhattan,
too! - CAB Magazine
"FREEWAY DREAMS (A New L.A. Musical) was staged in January 1992 in Los
Angeles where it was directed by actor Michael Greer (The
Gay Deceivers, Fortune And Men's Eyes) and had a four-month
run. It's an unpretentious little show by Wayne Moore (Greer helped
on the book, with one number by Moore and Jason Blume) who also played
one of its five characters. They are commuters, stuck in freeway traffic,
and as they wait for the gridlock to disperse they begin to daydream,
their dreams emerging through songs such as 'Manic-Depressive Blues',
'A Big Woman Needs A Big Man', '...And A Pizza To Go', 'My Superman'
and 'What If The Other Guy Wins?' These and other numbers like 'Doncha
Wanna Know?' have often amusing lyrics (movie fans will love 'The Bette
Davis Chorus'), occasionally hitting the mark in satirizing the L.A.
lifestyle. The cast members - Moore, Lee Lucas, Bryan Miller, Brenda
Silas-Moore and Deborah Tranelli, with director Greer heard as radio
announcers - perform their numbers personably - Theater Week
"Wayne Moore is back in the studio working on a new album, which will be
good news to his many fans in the L.A. area. But if you can't wait for the
new work, pick up a copy of FREEWAY DREAMS, the cast recording of
the cabaret show that ran for five months recently at the Gardenia. Wayne
says that he wrote the show about an 'optimistic L.A.'. Sound
bizarre? It's anything but. In essence, the show is about people
stuck on the freeway, and the fantasies they have in their lives.
'Actually, they're stuck so long they end up in each others' fantasies,
so there's lots of funny stuff', Wayne says. After writing lots of
songs about Hollywood and not have a single place to showcase them,
he came up with the show. After padding it with a few more songs, 'We
crammed a piano, bass, drums and five singers onto that little stage
at the Gardenia and just did it', he recalls. The CD itself features
everything from the show, with the original cast, so if you didn't see
it live, here's a great way to have your own Freeway Dream."
- Drama-Logue
"Interesting concept - it was bound to happen someday. FREEWAY DREAMS
is an interesting portrayal of life in L.A. It has a few awesome
songs, as well as its share of second-rate ones. I highly recommend
it for the title song which appears [at] the show's beginning and
its end. - Amazon.com
Songs For Ex-Lovers And Wives
Words & Music By Wayne Moore
interpreted by stars of stage and TV.
"Songs for Ex-Lovers and Wives: The
Words and Music of Wayne Moore Various Artists (Ducy Lee Recordings)
This is a concept album dedicated to the composer's ex-lovers and
wives, which means this is an album for us, every one of us. Though
these songs are distinct in their theatrical style, the sentiments and
lyrics of these songs ring out like poetry. They are potent in discovery
and richness and at time they are abysmal in their despair, but like life,
the despair turns to a better place. There are many heart felt performances
on this album, but I especially enjoyed Karen Morrow singing "If Love
Is Not Enough" with a thick alto that bleeds like a ripped scar,
"New Orleans" is a country-tinged homage to a new love found in
the French quarter that is young and freshly sung, as it should be, by
Mark Smith. Mr. Moore gives the words "Been There, Done That"
a very smart, jazz inflected tune that deserves to be sung by many a
singer; Jae Ross does a great job here. I could go on talking about the
wealth of material that abounds on this album, but my favorite song is the
very romantic and melodic "Believer", sung with great care and
restrain by Lee Lucas. "If you say, I am good, good is what I'll be, believing
what you see, you make a believer out of me." This collection is rare
and beautiful in its delivery and sincerity. I want more music, Mr. Wayne
Moore." - William Gregory Midwest-Ursine.com
"WAYNE MOORE LAUNCHES NEW ALBUM IN STYLE AT THE GARDENIA - Wayne Moore
and his own Ducy Lee Recordings have announced and launched
their latest album Songs For Ex-Lovers And Wives featuring
all original songs by Moore. The album was kicked off with a fabulous
fete thrown by Tom Rolla and the Hollywood Gardenia to thank the 25
musicians and performers who participated in the project. This all-star
ensemble brings a wonderful variety of interpretations to Moore's
songs of love and loss ... all true stories, according to Moore. 'I
realized when I was compiling songs for this CD that I could put a name
next to every title,' he says. 'I wouldn't do that, because I don't want
any of them showing up at my door with a knife! But they know who they
are.' 
From the event, pictured here are many of the performers
who sang on the album (starting far left and clockwise) Andy
Stienlen (The Wandering Whore, Cyberqueer) Jon
Philip Alman (The Ballad of Little Mikey) Bryan Miller
(Oasis on Sunday nights) Mark W. Smith and Jay Forman
(Mikey) Jamie Anderson (Lullaby Of Broadway)
Wayne Moore (Freeway Dreams) and Brenda Silas Moore
(Wayne's long-time partner and ex-wife!) The album also features
performances by stars of Broadway and television including Karen
Morrow, Jill Eikenberry, Barbara Sharma, Bill Hutton and Carolyn
Mignini. The CD is distributed directly to stores by Ducy Lee
and is available at Aron's Records in Hollywood as well as over the
Internet at their brand-new website at www.ducylee.com. - 4-Front
Magazine (1/98)
"WAYNE MOORE 'S EX-LOVERS AND WIVES ARE FOR EVERYONE TO ENJOY. The new,
eagerly-awaited CD by Wayne Moore on his Ducy Lee Recordings
label is now in record stores like Arons Records in Hollywood
and at Different Light Bookstore in West Hollywood. And it's a
CD you should add to your collection if you're a fan of show and
cabaret songs. For here you will find the greatest array of cabaret
stars ever to appear on one CD: Jamie Anderson, Jill Eikenberry, Bill
Hutton, Lee Lucas, Carolyn Mignini, Bryan Miller, Karen Morrow, Jae
Ross, Barbara Sharma, Brenda Silas-Moore and Mark Smith,
and of course Wayne Moore himself, who wrote the songs. Many reading
this know Wayne Moore through his many appearances in cabaret
clubs locally and around the world, mostly as one-half of 'Wayne
& Brenda' ... others may know Wayne for the original cast recording
of his L.A. musical 'Freeway Dreams' and his CD 'Believer',
both on Ducy Lee. His scores for shows include 'Good Morning,
Hollywood', 'Much Moore', 'Hollywoodland', 'Music Drives Me Crazy' and
'Coffin Capers'. His song 'My Superman' was featured in
the L.A. production of 'The Gay 90's'. Besides 'Ex-Lovers and
Wives' and 'Believer'Moore's Ducy Lee label also includes
the following CDs: 'Lee Lucas in 'The Big Strappin'
Fag Show' and 'American Twistory' with words and music by Kevin
Kaufman and John Everest. - 4-Front Magazine (2/98)
"Those interested in new material, either as listener or performer, should
check out Songs For Ex-Lovers And Wives ... a collection
of (mostly) ballads by Wayne Moore ('Freeway Dreams').
Moore explores the vagaries of love in 'Nothing I Do Will Make
You Mine', 'If Love Is Not Enough', 'Been There, Done That', 'Honest
At Last' and 'Believer'. It's a plus these and others
are sung by Carolyn Mignini, Jill Eikenberry, Karen Morrow, Bill
Hutton, Barbara Sharma, and promising cabaret performers such
as Jamie Anderson, Mark W. Smith, Jae Ross, Bryan Miller, Lee Lucas
and Moore himself." - Show Music Magazine
Her First Roman
(Original Cast Album, 25 years later!)
starring Richard Kiley and Leslie Uggams
"Her First Roman (25th Anniversary Cast Recording)
Richard Kiley/Leslie Uggams-Ervin Drake When this musical
version of Bernard Shaw's Caesar & Cleopatra was produced
nearly 35 years ago, it was a big flop. Today, this theatrical undertaking
would be turning back crowds in an era when every production on Broadway
is a re-hashed, re-mounting of an old idea, or a half-baked musical
collage, if you will. Sure, there's Aida, that rings loudly like a
music video created for the stage, there's singing Lion's, Phantoms,
and trains, but the warmth and tenderness found in a clever lyric cannot
astound the eye, it must wow the ear. Mr. Ervin Drake shows such craftsmanship
on songs like "Many Young Men From Now" and "Just for Today",
inspiringly sung by Leslie Uggams. Mr. Kiley fares just as well on the
worldly and sincerely sung "When My Back is to the Wall" and
"In Vino Veritas". It's not that this is a flawless musical, not
by a long shot, the chorus numbers are lackluster and the opening number
"Opening/What are we Doing in Egypt?" is flat at best, still,
this show along with many others, deserves to be looked at again, and
re-imagined. There is so much to learn from the greatness that we threw
away with yesterday's garbage. It's my opinion that yesterday's flops are
much stronger than many of today's hits. This cast recording is a fascinating
case and point." - William Gregory Midwest-Ursine.com
The Big Strappin' Fag Show
Live recording featuring Lee Lucas
"Lee Lucas' The Big Strappin' Fag Show
is a very different live recording made at Hollywood's Cinegrill.
Lucas is an openly gay, HIV-positive actor-singer. When he came out
he was unable to get work in films and television, in spite of having
made a good living in those media in the past, so he returned to cabaret
and theatre. Although much of Lucas' comedy material is very funny,
there are things in it that will most likely offend nearly everyone.
His act includes several show tunes, among them Little Shop Of Horrors'
'Somewhere That's Green', I'm Getting My Act Together's 'Old
Friend' and Funny Girl's 'The Music That Makes Me Dance'. There
are originals as well, such as Wayne Moore's amusing 'And A Pizza To Go'
and Don Paul Yowell's moving 'Ray of Hope'. Follies' 'I'm Still
Here' has lyrics that personalize it to Lucas' life. His show ends with
a lovely version of 'My Funny Valentine'" - SHOW MUSIC
"...Lucas also recorded his first CD last year, The Big Strappin' Fag
Show: Cabaret 4 Homos (self-produced under the Ducy
Lee banner with Wayne Moore) which is selling well in
gay/lesbian bookstores and show-biz outlets. 'Many who have purchased
it tell me they keep finding things which help them laugh at the
same foibles in their lives. And a lot give it as gifts to those recently
diagnosed with HIV - they feel it gives a positive image of someone
living with the disease, giving some comfort and hope about coping with
the obstacles'. So Lee Lucas is a man on the move!" - a&u
magazine
"Big Strappin' Smash! This is a fun recital of some fab tunes! This man
can sing, but he is also funny!!! His rewrite of "I'm Still
Here" by Sondheim is smashing, and other tracks like "John And
Fred" and "50 Percent" are equally impressive. I heard the CD a long
time ago but just thought of it again and decided to buy a copy. It's
not snoozy, easy listening or overwrought Mandy Patinkin, it's simply
one of the best solo singer musical-theatre-laden CDs of recent years.
- Amazon.com
Believer
Songs by Wayne Moore
(featuring the composer at the piano)
"Wayne Moore wrote the L.A. musical Freeway
Dreams as well as the songs on his own album, Believer.
There's humor in 'Bananas' ("A song that has bananas has appeal"),
'I Can't Go On' (a performer enumerates all the reasons he can think
of for not appearing) and 'Once Again I'm In Love' (a movie fan's catalog
of favorite leading ladies, with a kicker). 'New Orleans Will Always
Mean You' and 'Shades Of Blue' have a bluesy feel. 'Doncha Wanna Know?'
is reminiscent of old-time vaudeville. 'First Moment' and 'Honest At
Last' explore aspects of love. These and the other numbers offer a nice
variety of moods." - SHOW MUSIC
American Twistory
(Original Cast Album)
"Kevin Kaufman and John Everest's American Twistory 'A
Hysterical Look At America' had its premiere at the Duarte (California)
Center Theatre in 1994. The recording features performers from
that production and earlier workshops. In 27 numbers, Kaufman
and Everest take an irreverent look at American history from the
1626 sale of Manhattan ('Give Me Some Beads For Broadway') to the present.
Among notable persons and events twitted, there's George Washington
a la James Cagney as George M. Cohan ('Vote For Washington'), the
turn of the century immigrant invasion ('Streets Paved With Gold'),
a bluesy 'The Depression's Got Me Down', the advent of rock 'n' roll
('Rebels With A Cause'), the Cold War ('A Nuclear Love Song'), and
Watergate ('Disco Dick'). The recurring 'We're Gonna Fight A War' pointedly
sums up public attitudes from Revolutionary times through two World
Wars to a potential future one. A consistently amusing attitude prevails
throughout this whirlwind journey through time." - Show Music
Billy Barnes Revued
(Original Cast Album)
"Billy Barnes Revued, a perfect antidote to the unfunny
'90s, is the cast album of the limited-run revue that premiered
at Hollywood's Cinegrill earlier this year. Even those who aren't
familiar with The Billy Barnes Revue, Billy Barne's People,
...Party, ...L.A., ...Hollywood, or Movie Star have
probably heard his witty songs or special material without realizing
it, because he wrote for the TV shows of Danny Kaye, Judy Garland,
Carol Burnett, Dean Martin, Sonny and Cher, Rowan and Martin's Laugh-In
and Oscar telecasts. The two dozen-plus numbers on the CD are primarily
from Barnes' revues and exhibit his wonderful sense of humor, sometimes
biting, often gentle, but always witty - and are too much fun to discover,
so I won't spoil it by quoting lines. But, to demonstrate the range
of Barnes' talent, he also wrote 'Something Cool'. a sophisticated
lament popularized by June Christy, and 'Have I Stayed Too Long At The
Fair?', recorded by Barbra Streisand. Alphabetically, Paul Ainsley,
Cindy Benson, Lauri Johnson, Hope Levy, Bret Shefter, and Craig Wasson
are individually and collectively splendid. So is Barnes, who sings
some of his numbers and plays piano for the crowd, making this program
even more fun. - Show Music
"Billy Barnes Revued (Original Cast Recording)
Various Artists (Ducy Lee Recordings) Billy Barnes is an underrated
Composer whose name is comparable to a sip of fine cognac or whiskey,
only connoisseurs of theater songs know who this "Revue Master
of Hollywood" is, unfortunately. His songs have been performed by
the likes of Barbra Streisand, Carol Burnett, Judy Garland, Rosemary
Clooney, Patti Page and June Christie. The Billy Barnes reviews have
launched the careers of such performers as Joanna Worley, Ken Barry,
Bert Convy and many others. This CD is a collection of songs from Mr. Barnes
reviews over the past 45 years. Unlike other farcical music comedies,
this material is all original. In this day and age of cynicism, giant
teapots, and dancing chandeliers, these musical spoofs are gems that deserve
more than their cabaret room notoriety. There is wit, naiveté,
and kitschiness to spare in these songs, and sadly enough, they might
be deemed corny or outdated in this day and age. The meat of this recording
is humorous commentary on modern living such as "What ever Happened
to Ms. Molly Ringwald", and "When Ellen Degeneres comes out and says,
I'm a Lez, I'm shocked", some of the lyrics to "Ambivalent". Apart
from the comic genius that goes on for miles, "Something Cool" and
"Too Long at the Fair" are thankfully included in this revue. These
two songs help shed light on the seemingly simplistic compositions of Mr.
Barnes. His songs are a wonderful tribute to the artistry of musical theater,
sometimes joyous, sometimes keen and poignant. Hopefully this and future
recordings will help change Mr. Barnes' name to a household one. Paul Ainsley,
Cindy Benson, Lauri Johnson, Hope Levy, Lauri Johnson, Hope Levy, Bret
Shefter, Craig Wasson, and Billy Barnes do a delightful job on this recording
by creating a tight, exuberant, funny, and honorable job at interpreting
these whimsical pieces of joy". - William Gregory Midwest-Ursine.com
Billy Barnes Revued, The Cinegrill - Joining legendary Barnes,
"The Revue Master of Hollywood", with director David Galligan,
once refered to as "The Julius Monk of the West Coast", was a
most serendipitous decision, to say the least. The effect was
explosive, only made better by Barnes himself onstage singing,
playing piano, and even dancing a tad, just to prove hs still had
it in him. Another performance which deserves a New York run ASAP.
- Entertainment Today
"In its masterful blend of the nostalgic and the hip, the classy new Billy
Barnes Revued is nothing less than grade-A cabaret. In bringing
together the incomparable songwriting talents of Barnes (Mr Hollywood
Revue himself), the musical and comedic gifts of a seasoned cast,
and the exquisite showmanship of omnipresent director David Galligan,
the Cinegrill witnesses a refreshing burst of old-fashioned Hollywood
glory. The simple but potent formula combines six performers wearing
basic black, Barnes serving up patter and piano accompaniment, and a
grab bag of boffo songs from Barnes' past revues (and one new song)
... Barnes Revued is vaguely cemented by Barnes' brief but charming
reminiscences of the songs' origins, but the selections are strong enough
to satisfy with or without narration. Barnes' music and lyrics provide
crackerjack vehicles for the superbly versatile cast. Dynamic Lauri Johnson,
who combines a Rosemary Clooney appearance with a Dorothy Loudon brashness,
is hilarious in a recurring series of 'whatever happened to...' vignettes
(drive-in movies, Molly Ringwald, etc.) and offers a heartfelt interpretation
of 'New Girl', the melancholy lament of a jilted wife. In Barnes' amusing
new song, 'Who Am I?' the chameleon-like Craig Wasson expertly mimics
movie star icons ranging from James Stewart to Jack Nicholson. Droll
comedian Bret Shefter achieves a showstopper in the sardonic 'I've
Never Attended At All', about a Hollywood newcomer who feels left out
because he hasn't been invited to an orgy. Petite Hope Levy has her
moment to shine in the haunting 'I'm The Only One'. Pixie-like Cindy
Benson excels in both comic numbers ('Nervous') and wistful ballads
('Something Cool'). Rubber-faced Paul Ainsley brings down the house
in a timely send-up of bisexual confusion ('Ambivalent'). Barnes also
lends his jaunty singing prowess from time to time, most notably in
his medley of sharp songs that affectionately satirize L.A. (such as
'Don't Call It La-La-Land'). Several group numbers also delight, including
'Marital Infidelity' (an ironic paean to mate-swapping), the spirited
'Dance, Dance, Dance', and the exuberant opener and closer, 'Do A Revue'.
Wayne Moore's musical direction is first-class ... This lightning-paced,
75-minute show is so captivating, that the only disappointment is when
it comes to an end". - Back Stage West
"For nearly forty years, composer/lyricist Billy Barnes has been the maestro
of the revue genre. It is only fitting, in preparation for the
millennium, he put together a review of his revues. Billy
Barnes Revued: from past to present is an evening of mostly
light comical ditties performed in solo, duet and company renditions
with Barnes himself at the keyboard to chime in with friendly banter
and an occasional vocal offering. A talented troupe sings about
the likes of: women looking for respect in L.A. 'City Of The Angels'
(Lauri Johnson, Cindy Benson and Hope Levy), men with girl troubles
'Foolin' Ourselves' (Craig Wasson & Bret Shefter), and a guy who's
'Ambivalent' (Paul Ainsley). The lite-n-lively bouncy-n-jivy mood is
broken three times when each of the ladies take the solo spot in more
serious and memorable moments, especially Johnson's 'New Girl'. This
is cabaret fare of an old and treasured style which may not find favor
with a younger crowd unfamiliar with Walter Brennen, Veronica Lake or
Alice Faye, but for seasoned entertainment buffs, Revued is an
evening of laughs, smiles, memories, toe-tapping and feel-good nostalgia."
- After Dark
Billy Barnes' Divas
Songs written by Billy Barnes for these exceptional female
performers.
"These specially written cabaret songs for these tell-it-like-it-is,
smart mouthed women will split your sides open with honesty and frankness
from what a woman really wants in a man (we're talking body parts) to
pop psychology humor of blaming the "inner child." These fun, irreverent
songs dance through every day stories, hang-ups, idiosyncrasies and,
well- real life. After all, if you can sing and dance about the day-to-day
realities whether they be mundane or painfully embarrassing, every day
feels a little more livable." - CD Baby
"What's 'fizzy and funny and fine...' (besides Maria)? The scintillating
and scrumptious and super Billy Barnes' Divas
(Ducy Lee Recordings 0108; 67:42). Few songwriters have Barnes'
style and wit when it comes to songs that capture - and often skewer
- their subjects, as he has proved with The Billy Barnes Revue,
Billy Barnes' L.A., Movie Star, and other revues. When that genre
died, Barnes tailored special material for Judy Garland, Danny Kaye,
Dean Martin, Sonny and Cher, and many other stars who admired his
humor. This recording collects some of the numbers Barnes wrote for
specific talents. It's a major plus that most are performed by the artists
they were created for: Karen Morrow, Jo Anne Worley, Nancy Dussault,
Laugh-In's Barbara Sharma, Carole Cook (42nd Street),
Kay Cole (A Chorus Line), Eileen Barnett (Nine), character
actress Kathleen Freeman, Jane A. Johnston (Greenwich Village, U.S.A.),
and opera satirist B.J. Ward. Because Barnes is friends with these
ladies, he knows them well; the material pokes fun at their careers and
foibles, with Dussault's touching "Captain's Daughter" a change of pace.
As if his divas weren't enough, Barnes sings "Something Special", which
describes what he so easily does, and with Worley recounts a frustrating
but comical experience selling "A Great Idea". The CD is a must for
those who despair at the lack of laughs in today's show business world
... isn't that most of us? - Show Music
"Billy Barnes first enjoyed fame with a series of musical revues. He went
on to write special material for Danny Kaye, Judy Garland, Sonny
& Cher and the Academy Awards telecasts. This album gathers
together a collection of songs he has written to order over the
years, most recorded by the artists who commissioned them. Enjoyment
of the CD will depend upon one's fondness for this kind of material.
It's tone is somewhat uniform but, at worst, one could only accuse Billy
Barnes' Divas of being perhaps a little too much of a good thing.
With one exception, Nancy Dussault's poignant 'Captain's Daughter',
all the songs are humorous. Several exploit Barne's particular talent
for pastiching other writers' work, with clever musical quotes or lyric
snatches from familiar showtunes. The album's chief pleasure may be
the opportunity to hear these talented women, most of whom are rarely
if ever recorded. None of them disappoint. Eileen Barnett is particularly
funny on one of the strongest numbers, 'The Valley', about a woman
who moves to the San Fernando Valley with some reluctance but soon finds
herself embracing the lifestyle. Karen Morrow gives her all to the seven
minute marathon 'Show Voice' and Carole Cook enjoys herself to an almost
indecent degree as the 'Queen of Equity Waiver'. Barnes proves himself
no mean interpreter of his own material on 'Something Special', an attempt
to explain his particular gift to the uninitiated. There are a couple
of entertaining duets. Barnes and Jo Anne Worley exhibit genuine chemistry
on 'A Great Idea' and Kay Cole and Barbara Sharma have great fun with
'Always A Bridesmaid', the lament of two musical theatre actresses doomed
to a lifetime of second leads ('never Magnolia, Julie's my role ...
but being drunk and boring isn't really my goal'). Cole also shines on
a pair on numbers originally written for the late, great Juliet Prowse.
Barnes own skillful piano accompaniments frame his Divas' vocals perfectly.
His songs - and the women who sing them - are pure showbiz but the material
is often deceptively clever and the album will appeal to those who enjoy
good old-fashioned entertainment delivered with affection and zest."
- CultureVulture.Net
"At the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel a couple of Wednesdays ago, where Ducy
Lee Recordings hosted a preview party at The Cinegrill to introduce
its CD Billy Barnes' Divas, there was a bevy of divas -
Eileen Barnett, Kay Cole, Carole Cook, Nancy Dussault, Kathleen
Freeman, Jane A. Johnston, Karen Morrow and Barbara Sharma (divas
B.J. Ward and Jo Anne Worley being busy elsewhere) - clustered around
the grand piano where Billy Barnes sat beaming like a beatific leprechaun
a few days short of St. Patrick's Day. Ducy Lee producer Wayne Moore
hailed Barnes' contributions to cabaret and theater music, noting,
however, that he has been '...one of the least recorded of our great
musicians.' Kathleen Freeman introduced Barnes as '...a great American
composer, who writes frivolous, silly lyrics with depth and interesting
ideas about life.' Natty in black suit and neat white turtleneck, Barnes
beamed even more broadly and responded, 'My God! I feel like I've died
or something' as he launched into a song explaining what he does: 'Whatever
it is I do, right now, I'm doin' it - Special Material!' For more
than 25 years Barnes has provided just that, special material, for Academy
Awards shows, Super Bowl specials, nightclub acts, and countless television
variety shows. His Billy Barnes Revues, popular in New York, London,
Scotland and Miami, were Hollywood highlights in the '50s and '60s. His
affectionate Movie Star spoof, a gentler version of the Forbidden
Hollywood genre, had a long run at the Westwood Playhouse starring
some of the same singer/actresses featured on the new CD. Barnes has
a special rapport with his divas, which was apparent in the warmth
of Eileen Barnett's introduction to The Valley and in the song
itself: ('This woman got married/And moved to the Valley...'). Barnes
explained, 'Beautiful Eileen starred in my revue Movie Star, she
was a soap star on Days Of Our Lives, and she did move to the
Valley when she married actor Bruce French.' Jane A. Johnston, chic,
svelte, and sophisticated in charcoal gray with a built-in small boa
of feathers (ostrich? osprey? coq?) sang a topical number about 'A
Little Lift/A tiny tuck.' Incomparable Carole Cook ('hysterically
funny and an amazing friend', in Barnes words) delivered I'm The
Queen Of Equity Waiver, the song he wrote for her appearance at
a Los Angeles Theater Critics awards show. Elegant in black set off
with a rhinestone dragonfly pin big as any you will ever see, her nasturtium-colored
hair in a decorated chignon and her incredible eyes calling to mind a
once-popular song, - 'Jeepers Creepers, Wheredya get them peepers?'
- where else are you going to look? Cook's way with a barbed sally, risque
ad lib, pointed bon mot is delicious." - Backstage West
| "Divas" CD
Release Party PICTURES |
What's A Brayne & Wenda?
Live recording featuring Wayne Moore & Brenda Silas Moore
"One might well be stumped by the question What's A Brayne
& Wenda? (Ducy Lee Recordings) but those who have seen Wayne
and Brenda Moore's Los Angeles cabaret act will know the answer.
This release, recorded in the '80s at The Rose Tattoo, celebrates
the talented duo's 20 years in clubs. Even then they had a casual,
bantering style, lobbing affectionate gibes at each other. Their
act is an effective balance of standards ("I'd Rather Leave While
I'm In Love", "It's A Good Day"), showtunes ("Razzle Dazzle", "All
That Jazz", Working's "If I Could've Been") and humorous numbers
by Wayne, who also sings and plays piano (and wrote the musical Freeway
Dreams). A big-voiced belter, Brenda is equally at home with "Hard-Hearted
Hanna" or "Over The Rainbow". Their fans will be happy to have this
recording (previously available on cassette) on CD with a couple of bonus
tracks. It doesn't have state-of-the-art sound, but it puts Wayne and Brenda's
entertaining act right in your living room." - SHOW MUSIC MAGAZINE
"With the Moores, called by critics 'that large and
hysterical duo' and 'a miniature Broadway show,' you are always
guaranteed a first-class evening of cabaret entertainment with plenty
of nutty sponaneity. L.A. mainstays, they have the distinction
of being the first act to open The Gardenia [as well as The
Rose Tattoo] nearly 20 years ago. Their Annual Halloween
Costume Show is a Hollywood tradition. A multi-talented songwriter,
actor, producer, director, conductor and enthusiastic supporter of new
writers for theater and cabaret, Wayne has his own recording company
named after his grandfather's sailboat.Visit his website at www.ducylee.com
where, among other things, you'll definitely want to check out this
CD." - Les Traub CABARET WEST MAGAZINE
Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day
(Original Studio cast Album featuring Nancy Dussault and
Jason Graae)
"Wayne Moore co-produced and sings on the limited edition Alexander
and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day, a studio
cast recording of songs from Shelley Markham and Judith Viorst's
musical based on the latter's children's book. Commissioned by
the Kennedy Center and produced there in 1988, Alexander has
been seen around the country in other venues since. It amusingly
relates Alexander's experiences during a day in which nothing goes right
via the charming "If I Were In Charge Of The World," "Mother Doesn't
Want A Dog," "Australia" and others. For this recording, the cast
includes Nancy Dussault ("The Sweetest of Nights and the Finest of Days"),
Jason Graae ("I Love Love Love My Brand-New Baby Sister"), Moore, Betsy
Ann Faiella, Mark Arthur Miller, John Pagano, Mona Lisa Young, and composer
Markham (singing three bonus songs)." - SHOW MUSIC MAGAZINE
There's No Place Like Hollywood
(Original Cast Album)
"THERE'S NO PLACE LIKE HOLLYWOOD (Ducy Lee Recordings) is
an affectionate spoof that had three months of weekend performances
at Los Angeles' Stella Adler Theatre starting June 1, 2001.
Dan Berkowitz and Shirley Hillard's book has visiting movie-struck
tourist Dorothy (from Kansas, of course, wearing red sneakers)
knocked unconscious in front of Grauman's Chinese Theater.
Awakening, she is taken on a whirlwind journey through Hollywood history,
an impetus for visits by singing movie legends from Theda Bara ("Kiss
Me, My Fool") to Marilyn Monroe and James Dean ("Be Careful What You
Wish For"). The songs by Wayne Moore (Freeway Dreams)
wittily capture and often skewer icons including Nelson Eddy and
Jeanette McDonald ("Jeanette And I"), Mae West, Bette Davis and Greta
Garbo ("Divas"), Gone With The Wind's Hattie McDaniel ("Listen
To Mammy"), "Busby Berkeley", gossip queen Louella Parsons ("Louella's
Got To Know"), Rita Hayworth, Hedy Lamarr and Betty Grable ("Pin-Up
Girl"), Carmen Miranda ("Bananas") and Elvis ("Bump"). The dropped
"A Night Like This", "Larger Than Life" (with the show's Clay Adkins
as Cher and Barbra) and the nostalgic "Once Again I'm In Love" are bonus
tracks. Including Adkins, the cast - Heidi Godt, Stephanie Andersen,
David Barnathan, Melissa Brandzel, Amy Collette, Scott Davidson, Patti
Diamond and Jeff Griggs - gives the material added sparkle. - SHOW
MUSIC MAGAZINE
"And now on to a few discs which you might not have seen but are fun to
listen to. I recently discovered a small label from California
which issues original cast albums of small "revues". One
that caught my eye is titled There's No Place Like Hollywood
(Ducy Lee Recordings). In the vein of the series of "Forbidden
Broadway" revues still running in New York, this show pokes fun at
the mannerisms of celebrities. The plot device (described in
the liner notes) is corny but the 20 songs present a "short history
of Hollywood". There is sufficient fun made of Busby Berkeley
movies, Mae West, and Carmen Miranda to tickle the funnybone of any fan
of these entertainment icons. Jeanette McDonald and Nelson Eddy
get ribbed also. And the fate of minority actors in early films
is entertainingly, and honestly, addressed as the Hattie McDaniel character
sings "Listen To Mammy". More recent stars like Elvis and James
Dean appear later in the show. Performed cabaret style (meaning
keyboards - played here by the show's composer Wayne Moore - and percussion),
the lyrics are clear and the cast's voices are pretty. It's a delightful
find! - Steve Ramm, IN THE GROOVE
Naked Boys Singing
(Original Cast Album)
"The honor for Most Unusual Revue should surely go to Los Angeles'
NAKED BOYS SINGING. To get the obvious questions out of
the way: first, yes, they are and do, and second, if the recording
session photos can be believed, they did. The show opened in
March at the Celebraton Theatre, became a surprise hit, had several
- pardon the expression - extensions, and was still running as this
was written. The gay sensibility may offend some listeners (as
will some language), so be forewarned. But instead of salaciousness,
many of the songs, by a number of writers, have frank wit and bawdy
good humor, beginning with the opening Gratuitous Nudity, in which
it's admitted there's no other reason for doing a revue in the nude ("Tonight,
you finally get what you paid for ... "). It's all in the ear of
the beholder anyway; there are those who will be convinced Jack's
Song is about maturbation, but it isn't. The Naked Maid puts
a new spin on housecleaning. Robert Mitchum is an ode to
"normal" movie idols. Fight The Urge is about the peril of
community male showering. For Members Only uses every euphemism
one has heard (and maybe some one hasn't) for the male organ. Muscle
Addiction will hit home with gym addicts. A couple of songs have
serious themes: Stripped is not about what you might imagine,
and Kris, Look What You've Missed is a moving message to a departed
lover. The cast - a dozen, plus Stephen Bates at the piano - are
as exposed on CD as on stage, but talent comes through. Though
not as much if one were watching them, of course. - Show Music
Magazine
"Nine guys, all naked, singing lots of fun, campy and sometimes serious
musical theatre dittys. Sounds like a good evening to me.
Such is the scenario of a brash, new and very gay revue that
played to critical raves earlier this year in L.A., now captured
on this original cast recording. What easily could have been
a bad joke that went a long, long way and written off as another
gimmicky play on the naked-boy concept, is actually a clever, exhilaratingly
entertaining and irresistibly delicious original musical treat.
Sure, some of it's silly and simplistic, but that's part of it's charm.
And in this pretty, muscle-boy world we live in, the question of whether
nudity is really a "window to the soul" (a theme in the show) is appropriate.
This isn't one of those talentless porn star headlined sucker shows.
Conceived by Robert Schrock, the show features a bevy of beautiful
actors whose vocal talents are impressive and in-line with some of Broadway's
best. Their strong, masterful voices project loud and clear and
do justice to the original and melodic tunes of the various composers
and lyricists who contributed to the show's creation - 11 in all.
The 15 musical numbers are clever, witty, and often substansive - not exactly
what you'd expect from a show called "Naked Boys Singing!" From
the first song, Gratuitious Nudity, you know what you're in for.
Fight The Urge is a hilarious gem about three gay high school
boys trying not to get hard-ons in the locker room, while Bliss Of
A Bris is a sassy tune about being the guest of honor at a bris -
that's a circumcision for the Jewish impaired. Not all of it is
beefcake and buns, though; the show does have its serious moments.
In Mark Savage's moving Stripped, the dehuminization of AIDS is
the focus, while the touching Kris, Look What You've Missed finds
Steve Gideon lamenting over a lost love in a gorgeous musical monologue,
reminiscent of 1995's AIDS musical "Falsettoland." "Naked Boys
Singing" is a refreshing reprieve and a welcome addition at a time when
finding ripe musical theatre gems to sing along to at home are becoming
fewer and farther apart. So take off your clothes and enjoy the release.
- J.L.N. Frontiers
"The show does nicely on CD; despite the absence of nudity it makes for
a very catchy, listenable collection of songs. And you
get to hear the guys perform songs that were written for them so
you get the best performances of these songs to date. Grab
a copy of this one! ... It's a testament to clever songwriting, solid
musical direction and a cast that is up to the challenge of bringing
the material to life ... Saw this show in Chicago twice and had to have
this disc. After several months of waiting I was finally able to
purchase this L.A. recording. The wait was worth it. These
guys are really fine singers and convey the electricity of the show
superbly. The musical numbers range from solos to chorus pieces
and are accompanied by a fabulous piano player. The variety of
songs is great, too; they are funny, raunchy and touching. Recording
quality is clear and upfront. Highly recommended.- buyers'
reviews from Amazon.com
Just Kidding
(Songs for children of all ages)
featuring Andy Belling
"Ear Candy" is an apt description for this spirited
collection, in which musician/composer Andy Belling revisits
12 personal favorites from the long list of songs he has written
for children's TV shows and videos. The variety is astounding,
from the soft-shoe "Creativity", to the percussively gentle "Kauai
Lullaby", to the celebratory "Music Makes The World Go 'Round",
to the catchy introduction of Spanish words in "My Body". The
real stand-out, however, is the catchy, salsa-fied "Sombrero", a
musically and lyrically clever ode to a favorite hat. Several
of the songs were written for Disney videos and TV shows ("Our Miss
Minnie", "Sing Me A Story", "Playing In The Wood"). Belling's
lyrics are child-friendly and endearing. His smooth voice
and upbeat style capture the feel of each song perfectly, making
this a treat for adults and kids alike. - Kathleen Kelly MacMillan,
CARROLL COUNTRY PUBLIC LIBRARY, MD.
"This CD presents 12 songs distilled from singer, songwriter and composer
Andy Belling's 30-year musical profession. The well-chosen
songs (with styles ranging from hip-hop and salsa to lullaby) are
bright, whimsical and imaginative, whether dealing with hats, mice,
or creative playtime. Belling is an ingratiating performer
with an inviting sense of humor and solid musical talent. -
Paul Shackman BOOKLIST MAGAZINE
"Children's music is thriving, due in large part to the recent contributions
of independent record labels. Another indie release, Just
Kidding by Andy Belling, is a collection of songs that
Belling wrote for other projects, including Disney's syndicated series
"Sing Me A Story With Belle" and the innovative Disney series "Fun
With Spanish". It's an easygoing, mostly gentle musical romp
through some delightful songs. Styles vary from Broadway to
pop to lullaby. The musical arrangements are tasteful and Belling's
voice is pleasing. Fred Koch PEDIAMEDIA
4 Friends: Who Are Very Vocal About
It
4 Friends - Gilmore Rizzo, Wayne Moore,
Bryan Miller, Brenda Silas Moore
(Ducy Lee Recordings)
These four friends happened to be performers who
wanted an excuse to see each other more often. So what did they
do? They did what anybody else would do, they started a singing group.
Ducy Lee, that purveyor of stellar musical theater recordings, has
produced an album of mixed results. With names like David Shire, Richard
Maltby Jr and Wayne Moore, it would be hard to go wrong. The talent is
all there, the songs are great, and the singing is good. I believe that
most of it boils down to a matter of taste. I'm a meat and potatoes type
of guy, so to speak. I cringe when I hear too much electronic gadgetry
going on, and there is a lot of it going on, on this disc, as on the opening
track "Friends", which takes on a tinny, karaoke sound. I prefer acoustics
and the beauty of the human voice, not muffled or overproduced. But that's
my taste. Then there's "Our Time", which is beautiful in its simplicity,
or "What a Wonderful World" sung by Brenda Silas Moore with a pop feeling
that seems to flow naturally. It's moments like these that make me want
more, and I think about the old adage "Less is more". Perhaps in the
future 4 Friends will consider alternating the acoustics with the electronics.
William Gregory MIDWEST URSINE
Atlantis Piano Bar
(Studio recording of Wayne Moore's piano bar act)
Letters to Ducy Lee:
"My
husband and I met while listening to you sing one night. On
our next trip (our honeymoon!) we bought your CD. We listen
to it practically every day. We named 'It Might As Well Be Spring'
'our song'. Thank you so much for your wonderful music"
"Your piano bar nights were the highlights of
my Atlantis trip! Bravo!"
"I love the range and scope of your repertoire.
What a special treat you are! Thank you for making
my vacation so special. I'm your biggest fan. Don't
let anyone tell you different!"
"I wake up every morning to your CD. 'Everything
Old Is New Again' is the perfect way to start the day!"
Moore Piano Bar
(second recording of Wayne Moore's piano bar act)
More Letters: "This is more like
it! These are the songs I wanted on the last piano bar CD!!"
"Thank you, Wayne,
for making this second album. I haven't taken it out of my car CD
player since I got home. I can't believe you do all the ladies
in 'The Cell Block Tango'! And the song from Wicked makes me
cry every time. Thanks, again."
"My favorite
thing on the CD is your medley of songs from the 1960's. It
brings back a lot of memories. My son's favorite song is "I Believe
I Can Fly" and he says you do a great job of it."
"Great voice,
great arrangements, great piano playing. How can you go wrong?"
What My Heart Already Knows
(Songs of Spirit by Wayne Moore)
featuring Wayne Moore, Brenda Silas Moore, Sherrie Quander, 4
Friends, and the Love's Expression Chorus
"Love the CD! I especially like the title track and 'Drunk
With The Wine Of Life and 'I Hear Something' - but you did a great job
on all of them. So glad you did it acoustically, too. It sounds
great." - Mark Winkler, recording artist
"...an amazing CD that was written, arranged and produced
Wayne Moore. [He] was so inspired that he created a brilliant Metaphysical
album that transcends any religious belief you may have. He captured
so much emotion, entertainment and joy into his creation.... it should be
heard by EVERYONE!! The portrait on the cover was painted by
the marvelous (& Famous) artist Susan Rios. Get your copy
today! You will not be disappointed."
- Bill Walker, producer H&G
TV
"Wayne Moore's
"What My Heart Already Knows"...every song stirs
the heart strings of remembrance of our Devine Intention to soar and blossom."
- Rev. Dr. Charles Geddis, minister Montebello Church of Religious
Science
"This CD has been in my car since I first received it just before Christmas,
and I have logged over 800 miles listening to the same music over and over
again, and yet, each time I hear the cut about the "Universal Song" ["
I
Hear Something"] it's as though I am hearing it for the first time and
my eyes well up with tears. The whole album is inspired."
- Rev.
Dr. Maureen Hoyt, minister of the Granada Hills Center For Positive Living
"I finally had a chance to listen to "What the Heart Already Knows"
and really enjoyed it.
[Wayne has] written some really lovely tunes - BRAVO! - Lee Lessack,
LML Music
Click to hear sample "Honest At Last" - Bill Hutton
web page CLICK HERE
