I Stand

Famous for creating the role of bisexual performance artist Maureen Johnson in "Rent" as well as for her Tony Award winning triumph in "Wicked," Idina Menzel has been principally known as a performer of the stage and screen. However, she has been active as a singer/songwriter since those early "Rent" days and has three albums of her own material. "I Stand," however, provides her first real chance of gaining vast exposure as a solo artist. The album debuted at #58 on the Billboard top 200 albums chart.

Those who cherish Menzel for her glass-shattering vocal range will find much to appreciate here with the chugging, widescreen title track, replete with powerful lyrics and a life-affirming message, or "Better To Have Loved," a passionate ode to lack of regret in an unpredictable world. Producer and co-writer Glen Ballard, best known for helping Alanis Morissette unleash her inner warrior woman on 1995's landmark "Jagged Little Pill," however, hands Menzel a double-edged...Read more

I've been a fan of Idina since she starred in "Rent" back in the 90's. Loved her in "Wicked", and found her delightful in "Enchanted". When I heard she was releasing a new album, I had to check it out. The preview I heard was wonderful, but it doesn't even compare to the full product.

"I Stand" is an amazing collection of truly gorgeous songs. After the first 30 seconds of the title track, I was hooked. That is quickly followed by my other personal favorite, "Better to Have Loved", where the spectacular quality of her voice only adds to the truth of the words. (Haven't we all felt that way at one point in our lives?) The first single, "Brave" is heartfelt and inspirational.

I recommend this cd for all the Idina fans out there, as well as anyone who wants a superb music experience.

Idina Menzel has an amazing voice, and this CD is only the next best thing in her repertoire. She has a very relaxed voice, like that of a lounge singer, however, her quality is amazing. This is her 2nd CD that I have, and I enjoyed this one better than the first one. Very Sara McLaughlin-like. I bought it as a gift for a friend of mine, but had to listen to it before I gave it away, and buy one for myself.
If you have not heard her sing before, check out her other music such as Wicked and Rent... did I mention, she's also beautiful!