I recently discovered the soundtrack for "Dear Evan Hansen" - and I was immediately hooked. It is very uncommon that I will listen through a CD more than one time in a row in my car, but this soundtrack has been a different story. My husband was recently in New York and scored tickets to see the show. He described it to me - and I am more jealous than ever that I was not on the trip with him. Here are the top five reasons it’s a must to add to your lineup of music.
1. It just sounds beautiful
Benj Pasek and Justin Paul have created a truly brilliant score for this show. The instrumentals blend so beautifully with the words – in many ways, it’s quite haunting. I am an avid lover of musical theater, but it has been a long time since I have felt this strongly about a show. When I close my eyes and listen, I can see the story playing out before me.
2. The message shines through the words
I will admit, I had to have my husband explain to me what this show was about as I was listening through the first time. But despite missing some of the bigger picture of what’s happening in the script, the words were still incredibly moving. I made the mistake of listening to this on the way to school for the first time and I was literally in tears when I got to the building. Be warned – it can be a bit of an emotional roller coaster – but it is SO worth the ride. Steven Levenson has written an incredible drama.
3. It's catchy
Although I have only listened through the CD maybe two times now, I can already sing along to over half of the songs. I find myself humming little licks here and there through the day and find myself wanting to have the CD on all the time.
4. It's relatable
Whether you’re a parent, a sibling, depressed, or know someone who has suffered through it, there are so many concepts in this show that relate to a typical life. I find myself connecting to this story on so many levels. In reality, I really feel like there is something for everyone in this show.
5. The vocalists are killer
There’s always something about listening to an Original Broadway Cast sing. The cast of “Dear Evan Hansen” is no exception. There’s something about how those specific actors sound on this recording that is truly moving for me. They harmonize so beautifully and meld in such a wonderful explosion of sound. I’m just a little fangirly over this show now.
