Since
the Manhattans aren't exactly a visual group, you get the price of admission to one of their live shows with this CD, with the added convenience of being able to replay the concert over and over. Lovers of their patented harmonies won't be disappointed; despite Ernest Bivins and Ken Kelly's departures, and the addition of two new members to sing with
Gerald Alston and Winnie "Blue" Lovett, the sound remains tight. South Africans know their recordings well and respond enthusiastically at the mere introductory notes of songs. They deliver mesmerizing versions of
Hall & Oates' "Sara Smile,"
Atlantic Starr's "Send for Me," Boyz to Men's "End of Our Road," and their own: "Wish That You Were Mine," an update of
Timi Yuro's "Hurt," "There's No Me Without You," "When We Are Made As One," "One Life to Live," and more; 23 in all, and well worth whatever price charged. They conclude with "Shining Star" and "Kiss and Say Goodbye" to curtain the most enjoyable, comprehensive, and fulfilling live recording in sometime. ~ Andrew Hamilton