Reviews of the CD

Every so often a show comes along that remains a landmark of musical theatre. We have seen such shows in "Les Miserables" and of course "Phantom"; the concept recording of "Wuthering Heights" shows that it has the potential to be another.

The music is powerful, moody and romantic, and every number produces images of how it would appear on stage. The principal roles of Heathcliff and Catherine are taken by Dave Willets and opera star Lesley Garrett.

Both performers use their talents to produce characters that are vividly alive, with a wildness that reminds us this is no ordinary romance. Definite highlights are Heathcliff’s "Cathy"; the ferocious exchange between Heathcliff and Cathy that is "I See a Change in You", and Heathcliff's Lament in the second half that gives Dave Willets’ full musical and emotional reign to deliver a number that must become a classic.

Look out also for Clive Carter showing once and for all that he is wasted as the London Raoul (in Phantom of The Opera); as Cathy’s vindictive brother Hindley, his vehemence and energy show his true powers.

One surprise for me was Bonnie Langford as Isabella, the other woman to love Heathcliff, who sings "If Only" and gives full justice to a song to die for.

The songs given to the minor characters are just as strong as those of the principals, an art which appears to be disappearing. Every number, whether vocal or instrumental, packs the kind of emotional punch that musical perforrners and audiences cry out for.