Tom Lehrer: The Remains Of Tom Lehrer (2000)

Mike Perciaccante

CD/DVD Reviewer since 2002

Mike Perciaccante has been contributing to All About Jazz since 2002. He also contributes to many other magazines across the country.

Recent articles (116 total)

Published: June 7, 2002

Did you know that the classic songs (heard regularly on Dr. Demento's show) "The Vatican Rag," "The Masochism Tango" and "Poisoning Pigeons In The Park" — not to mention, "Silent E" (from the Electric Company) all came from the fertile mind and imagination of one man? Tom Lehrer is the genius behind these great musical and comedy classics.

If you already knew, this is the collection you've been waiting for - a three CD retrospective of Tom Lehrer's career. If you didn't, this CD will serve as an education. Tom Lehrer is the man when it comes to witty rhymes, clever lyrics, as well as, topical musical humor and satire.

At 72-years-old, Tom Lehrer is basically retired (he doesn't perform in public and has not released any new music in quite some time), but everyone knows his songs. This box set combines all of Lehrer's previously released albums and some key bonus tracks, such as his songs from The Electric Company.

Rhino has again assembled a beautiful package that not only honors the artist, but serves as a testament to his career. The biggest bonus of this set is the hard-cover bound liner notes. The reader/listener is treated to a complete set of lyrics, an interview, photos and the usual well-researched notes. The Remains Of Tom Lehrer is a winner through-and-through.

Track Listing: (74 tracks)

Personnel: Tom Lehrer - Producer Al Klink - Sax (Tenor) Richard Hayman - Arranger, Conductor Ray Alonge - French Horn Seymour Barab - Cello Mac Ceppos - Violin Alex Cores - Violin Lawrence Feldman - Clarinet John Frosk - Trumpet Jack Gale - Trombone Seymour Red Press - Clarinet, Flute, George Shaw - Bass Ralph Silverman - Violin Thomas Parshley - Clarinet, Flute Morris Wechsler - Piano Arcadie Birkenholz - Violin Richard Sarpola - Bass

Record Label: Atlantic Jazz
Style: Beyond Jazz