Memories - Barbra Streisand

There's nothing like the feeling of finding a rare vintage vinyl.   "Memories" is a 1981 compilation album by the legendary Barbra Streisand.  It consists primarily of previously released songs and three new recordings. The highlights include the soaring "Memories" from Andrew Lloyd Webber's "Cats" where Barbra delivers a hair-raising climax, "You Don't Bring Me Flowers" (with Neil Diamond) and her jazzy take on Billy Joel's "New York State of Mind". 

My list of all-time favourite songs is short, but "The Way We Were" is in the top five.  Barbra's voice on the record defines what a love ballad should be - lush and romantic, yet melancholy with just the right touch of heartbreak. There's a reason why this is a crowd-pleaser at every Streisand concert. 

Other standouts include the disco-infused Donna Summer duet "No More Tears (Enough Is Enough)", the smoky "The Love Inside" and a song that is always on my playlist "Evergreen" from Barbra's 1976 film "A Star Is Born". This is a must-have vinyl for Streisand fans and those who have treasured her movies and signature ballads. This special compilation captures Barbra's voice at it's most lush and dynamic, a prized possession for vinyl collectors. 

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5

Review by Timothy Austin