Young Machetes - Blood Brothers (The)

Advantages: This recording contains all of the important tracks from the hit show.
Disadvantages: The use of brothers makes the link between the characters too abvious too early on.

...I purchased this recording of Blood Brothers having been to see the show on the West End. When listening to the recording from start to finnish the story is clearly conveyed making it enjoyable to listen to with little effort. The quality of the sound is far above that of earlier recordings of the show that are available. I would recommend this recording to both those who have seen the show as well as others as you do not require any previous knowledge of the show to enjoy this recording. Willy Russell as the narrator makes his Liverpudlian accent clear preventing any misunderstanding of the lyrics. The only complaint I have of this recording is in the casting of the Cassidy brothers playing the characters of the twins. This to my mind at least conveys far too closer connection between the two characters than perhaps is required. Overall... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: Compelling listening
Disadvantages: You can't get the songs out of your head!!

...True acts as the most powerful and moving track on the soundtrack and is a sobering reminder of difficult life was and is for some people. I've never been to a performance of Blood Brothers without crying (which has been quite a few times!!) and the soundtrack brings back many of those feelings! Basically what I'm trying to say is if your familiar with the songs and enjoyed the musical, this is a must have in your CD collection.... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: moving
Disadvantages: none

...First performed in 1981 by the Merseyside Young People's Theatre Company, Blood Brothers tells the story of Michael Johnson and Edward Lyons. Mrs Johnson is a single mother, struggling to find work and feed her children. When she discovers she is carrying twins, she doesn't know how she can afford them. Mrs Lyons can't have children and offers to take one of the twins and raise him as her own. The two make a pact on the Bible. At the age of seven, Mickey and Eddie first meet each other and decide to be Blood Brothers. The story follows their lives as they grow up, Eddie going to university and receiving all the benefits of being middle class, Mickey on the dole and desperate for money. Although the heart of the musical is entertaining, it also carries a deeper message, about the problems of the class barrier. These two are... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful