As far
as Ahrens & Flaherty musicals go, Dessa
Rose is a little hit-or-miss for me, but as is usual with this composing
duo, when they’re on, they’re really
on. Here are my favorite songs from the
show.
“Ol’ Banjar” – I feel Dessa Rose puts a bit too shiny a veneer
on its story at times, but even though this is an upbeat song, it works for
me. That’s because it’s specifically
about clinging to the few good things that make life bearable, and for Kaine,
that’s two things: music and Dessa
Rose. The simple but lovely tune fits it
to a tee.
Best
line: “Ain’t no white folks down in
Africa, / Ain’t no white folks near or far. / You own yourself / And you own
your soul / and the music of ol’ banjar.”
“Something of My Own” – Just like music
gives Kaine happiness, Dessa Rose’s unborn child gives her both hope and
strength. Her ode to how her child is
already changing her and everything she’ll do on its behalf (especially her vow
to “only name him free”) is gorgeous.
Best
line: “I could be as strong as thunder /
With his hand in mine. / Tear the very storm asunder. / Make the sun to shine.”
“Twelve Children” – The Act I finale
is a stunning showcase for Dessa Rose, introducing her newborn daughter to the
stories of all the family she’s lost.
This beautifully-understated song validates Dessa Rose’s lost brothers
and sisters, despite the repeated indifference of the white masters.
Best
line: “Some sold away. / Some passed
away. / Some run. / Twelve children brought from her body. / All gone but one.”
“Better If I Died” – This is such a
great drama!! song, with a strong
driving rhythm and fantastic harmonies between Ruth and Dessa Rose. It’s a fine release for everything that’s
been building up between them in the second act.
Best
line: “Nothing more to ruin. / Nothing
left to say…” – “Nothing left to take away.”
“Just over the Line” – Full
disclosure: I mostly love this song
because the chorus is so blame catchy.
It pulls me in every time.
Plot-wise, I find it fairly incredulous, but ooh! That music, especially when Nathan sings it;
in general, I don’t think the show makes great use of Norm Lewis’s talents, but
he’s just wonderful here.
Best
line: “Tuscaloosa, Pickens, Greene. /
Counties we ain’t never seen. / But look who’s here! / Just over the line.”
No comments:
Post a Comment