BWW Album Review: Levi Kreis's BROADWAY AT THE KEYS is Stunning

Consummate musician and Tony Award winner Levi Kreis has returned with a stunning new album that celebrates musical theater with BROADWAY AT THE KEYS. His signature gospel and blues inspired vocal stylings reverberate with joy and sincere heart across the album, allowing him to expose the emotional depth of each song with his sparkling arrangements.

Reminiscent of his debut solo album, this new record features Kreis singing from the piano bench as he accompanies himself on each of the 13 tracks. This stripped bare approach allows listeners to hear Kreis at his most vulnerable, making each of these cherished songs sound brand new. Likewise, the charisma of Kreis's performances makes them wholly accessible, allowing listeners to bask in the power and majesty of each beloved lyric and melody.

Every moment on the album is a gem; however, some stand out above the rest. His rendition of "Living in The Shadows" (Henry Mancini / Frank Wildhorn / Leslie Bricusse) is conveyed with a sense of understanding that can only come from waging through the hell of life's experiences. His jazz laden vocals on the song are truly resplendent. Kreis sings "Not While I'm Around" (Stephen Sondheim) so earnestly that his charm is infectious. Likewise, his version of "Corner of the Sky" (Stephen Schwartz) starts at a much slower tempo than we're used to, but builds to something faster and undeniably beautiful as the song plays on. By the end, his voice shines with vibrancy as his fingers playfully frolic across the ivories.

Kreis's honeyed vocals bring weight and magnitude to the despondent, hurting heart in "Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow" (Gerry Goffin / Carole King). Recreating "One Song Glory" (Jonathan Larson) he reminds listeners of his performance as Roger in the national tour of RENT, layering the track with urgency, a conflicted heart, and the determination to create art that will long outlast the artist. Towards the end of the album, he offers a triumphant version of "Wind Beneath My Wings" (Jeff Silbar / Larry Henley). He sings the tune with reverence to Bette Midler's iconic recording; yet, he doesn't shy away from making the song his own.

For fans of Kreis, BROADWAY AT THE KEYS is a must own. It perfectly satiates while simultaneously whetting appetites for his next studio album. For anyone new to Kreis, this is a delightful introduction. You can experience his unique gift applied to songs you already know and most likely love.

Vision 9 Records released Levi Kreis's BROADWAY AT THE KEYS on March 21, 2017. It can be purchased from Levi Kreis's webstore (which offers autographed copies), iTunes, Amazon, and CD Baby. You can also find the album on Spotify.

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