Wilmas rating ****
Louise Dearman is undoubtedly one of the most talented leading ladies the West End has seen in a long time, having just finished playing theatres biggest role, Elphaba in Wicked the Musical. Louise has previously played the shows other leading lady role, Glinda, showing that her vocal range and acting ability are un-pidgeon-hole-able.
It’s Time is Louise’s third album (following 2010’s You And I and 2012’s Here Comes The Sun) and is without question, her best yet. Having tried a more pop approach to her last album, Louise has come back to the stage, with an album of musical theatre songs.
The greatest version of ‘Home’ (from The Wiz) that I have ever heard, is the opening number on the album and sets a high expectation for the rest of the album that does not disappoint.
Tell Me On A Sunday (one of my favourite songs, from the show of the same name) is beautiful and the rather common ‘Over The Rainbow’ is refreshing to hear with such beautiful orchestrations.
The stand-out song on Its Time is a duet of ‘Falling Slowly’ (from Once the Musical) with pop singer/west end performer/heart throb Shayne Ward. A song that could launch Louise into the mainstream market.
It’s Time features 11 songs from shows including A Chorus Line, Les Miserables, Sunset Boulevard, Funny Girl and Little Women. It is a beautiful album that you will want to listen to again and again.
