The Magical Music of Disney (1995) I was surprised to see this release originally, because Disney is usually so protective of the music in their recent releases (I wouldn't even ask the price Kunzel paid to get permission for this one). I really enjoy these four Disney scores, and the Cincinnati Pops performs them here with the accompanyment of the Indiana University Singing Hoosiers. Together, they've created a wonderful compilation worthy of any ears. The selections from Hans Zimmer's The Lion King and Alan Menken's The Little Mermaid really shine. Some of the vocals are weak (compared to the likes of Elton John and that great singer that did the original voice of Belle), but the choral moments are splendid. Most of the songs have been abbreviated to form a suite, although some are intact. The packaging in beautiful --as a graphic artist, I appreciate and love the work done with the titles on the cover. This CD doesn't contain any sound effects, but it doesn't need any. Overall, if you don't buy this one for yourself, get it for your kids; it's a great compilation. *****

(Overall Time: 57:12)

The Lion King (Hans Zimmer, Elton John)


• 1. This Land/Circle of Life (4:22)
• 2. I Just Can't Wait to be King (2:38)
• 3. Hakuna Matata (1:25)
• 4. Be Prepared (1:36) --just not the same without Jeremy Irons' sick, evil voice.
• 5. Can You Feel the Love Tonight (4:14)
• 6. King of Pride Rock (1:48)

  Aladdin (Alan Menken)
  

• 7. Arabian Nights (1:18)
• 8. One Jump Ahead (2:33)
• 9. Friend Like Me (1:46)
• 10. A Whole New World (2:53)
• 11. Prince Ali (2:39)

  The Little Mermaid (Alan Menken)
  

• 12. Introduction (1:49)
• 13. Part of Your World (3:24)
• 14. Under the Sea (3:28)
• 15. Poor Unfortunate Souls (2:30)
• 16. Les Poissons (1:41)
• 17. Kiss the Girl (2:41)
• 18. Happy Ending (Part of Your World - Reprise) (1:46)

  Beauty and the Beast (Alan Menken)
  

• 19. Prologue (:38)
• 20. Belle (1:57)
• 21. Be Our Guest (3:06)
• 22. Gaston (2:10)
• 23. Beauty and the Beast (4:42)