The Book of Mormon (Original Broadway Cast Recording)

 (134 customer reviews)

How often does a truly original musical succeed on Broadway? Most shows are either based on familiar stories, revivals of old shows, or "jukebox theater" like Mama Mia or Jersey Boys. Somehow, Parker, Stone and Lopez pushed this unlikely concept through, and the result is nothing short of miraculous.

I saw the show on Broadway and loved it, but the music was so tightly integrated into the story that I wasn't sure if would stand on its own. Rest assured, however, that it does. I have a number of other cast albums, and even from musicals I really liked, there are always a few tracks that I merely tolerate - or skip over - to get to my favorites, but in this show, *all* the songs are gems. OK, "I am Africa" is pretty cheesy, but that's the point; it's supposed to be, and like everything else they do it really well.

Right up front, let me warn you: the show and the music are *very* profane and *very* blasphemous. If you know Parker and Stone, you know they pull no...Read more

I am a Mormon. I served an LDS mission to NYC, am still active in the church and I love this musical.

Don't think that I represent the church (or even many of the members). Yes, this is full of offensive things and dirty language, but you were expecting that, weren't you? They take some liberties with the beliefs of the LDS faith, but in general, these are things we believe (they did get the facts right for the song 'I Believe' at least).

And at least the music agrees with the official Church statement in one respect: "This is the most amazing book; you won't believe how much it will change your life." Though they do poke fun at the religion, they somehow do it respectfully. Don't forget, they say some very offensive things, but I think those shots are aimed to offend everyone, not just Mormons. That distinction is where the magic lies. I explained the plot to my extremely devout grandmother and even she had a chuckle. However, I wouldn't recommend that she...Read more

If you are generally offended by Southpark or Team America, or had no desire to see them, then I would imagine you won't like this either. But shouldn't that be obvious????

There is a lot here for people who are more Broadway then Southpark fans too though, especially all the little homages to other musicals throughout (Wicked progressions in 'you and me', 'Hasa Diga' - Lion King, and 'I Believe' parodies Sound of Music.) About 1/2 the soundtrack is highly addictive and will stick in your head - careful singing some of those lyrics in public though! The rest is enjoyable, but the highlights for me are the first five songs and I Believe.

You also have to have a sense of humor about religion in general to appreciate the musical, but I can say as a rather liberal Christian I didn't find it offensive - but you need to have an open mind. Overall, especially having seen the actual show, the show is quite good hearted about religion and although it pokes fun at...Read more