Ivor Novello - The Great Shows (2 LP)

Step into the enchanting world of Ivor Novello with "The Great Shows," a captivating compilation released on January 1, 2000, under the Leverage label. This two-hour musical journey is a testament to Novello's brilliance, featuring a diverse range of compositions that showcase his versatility and mastery.

The album is divided into four distinct suites, each offering a unique blend of styles and moods. "Careless Rapture" opens the collection with a series of operatic and balletic pieces, highlighting Novello's ability to create vivid musical landscapes. "Glamorous Night" follows, presenting a collection of songs that exude charm and sophistication, from the evocative "Fold Your Wings" to the lively "Shanty Town."

"The Dancing Years" suite is a romantic and nostalgic journey, featuring waltzes and ballads that are as timeless as they are enchanting. The final suite, "King's Rhapsody," is a dramatic and sweeping conclusion to the album, with pieces like "Muranian Rhapsody" and "Coronation Scene And Finale" showcasing Novello's ability to craft grand, cinematic compositions.

Throughout "The Great Shows," Ivor Novello's compositions are brought to life with rich orchestrations and a keen sense of drama. Whether you're a longtime fan of Novello's work or a newcomer to his music, this album offers a compelling introduction to his unique musical vision.

This 2LP set was released in 1981.