What's so remarkable about this album is its freshness. "Cry Me a River" opens the catalogue in a somber mood...it's lights out, smokes lit club hour with Streisand at the helm. On this album, Streisand does not merely approach the songs, but attacks them one by one. As far as anyone can tell, the only mis-step is on "Happy Days Are Here Again". Remarkable opening and phrasing throughout. It's at the end, when she hits that ghastly note, that really gives it that bite. However, she pulls through it! Remarkable!

And most remarkable is her phrasing on "I'll Tell the Man in the Street". My God! This girl's got something to say! And finally, "A Sleepin' Bee" is the perfect finishing touch. It's not a show-stopper, it's not really what should be the finishing touch on this album. But, by God, she does it and says, "So what? I like it this way!" This work has the original STREISAND CREATED AND APPROVED stamp on it, doesn't it?

A masterpiece, Miss Streisand! Sheer magic!