Liza Minnelli: The Complete A&M Recordings (Collectors' Choice)

by Ellis WidnerArkansas Democrat-GazetteMarch 3, 2009

This two-CD set has all of the pop/standards singer's A&M work from the late 1960s and early '70s, including outtakes. The set has 51 songs, including striking takes on songs by then-contemporary writers such as Randy Newman, then-husband Peter Allen and John Lennon. Though not yet a huge star, she tackled popular songs with contemporary arrangements, including Burt Bacharach's "The Look of Love," Randy Newman's "Love Story," Jimmy Webb's "MacArthur Park" and "Didn't We," and more. Standards are here, too, including the exquisite "How Long Has This Been Going On?" and "Love for Sale." Her signature "Liza With a 'Z'," and her best-loved song, "Cabaret," are definite highlights. Minnelli never gives any less than her all in these performances.