The first bit is sung at rehearsal, and a brief instrumental transitions into Christine performing in front of an audience. Things quiet down a bit with 'Think of Me,' an operatic aria sung by Sarah Brightman (Andrew Lloyd Webber's wife) as leading lady Christine Daae. For those of you still doubting that this review belongs on this site, note the heavy bass lines and soaring synthesizers in the towering signature tune.

The Phantom of the Opera begins with the Overture which, despite its (obviously) instrumental nature, conveys the majestic, grandiose scope of the sweeping gothic romance. I, however, prefer the 'Highlights' version, which is the 13 complete songs from the score without distracting bits of sing-song lines and dramatic pauses.

The full album is a two disc set that is essentially the entire show on CD, with dialogue, musical interludes, etc. As most of the original Broadway cast was also in the London show, this recording of the original London cast serves as the original cast recording. The Phantom of the Opera debuted in London in 1986 to sold out theaters, eventually moving to Broadway in 1988, where it still runs at the Majestic Theater - it is currently the longest running show on Broadway. I felt that what with the movie version coming out and everything, now was the time to talk about the original.

Okay, I know what you're thinking - 'What is this guy doing writing a rock review for Phantom of the Opera?' I would answer with another question - did you know that the song 'Phantom of the Opera' was released as a pop/rock single to promote the original London stage show, and that it hit #1 in the UK charts? Didn't think so.

Phantom of the opera movie sound track