I bought this out of curiosity because I was startled that anyone would think this material would make a good musical. Well, it doesn't - it makes a marvelous musical, at least based on this CD. I was completely astonished at the beauty of the melodies, the ingenious rhymes, and above all the moving emotional arc that the creators elicit from the story and characters. Just try to remain dry-eyed during the love duet, "Reach Out," which some pop star should cover. Even more surprising is the decision to write the climactic battle sequence as a musical number, and as a haunting anthem-like ensemble piece at that. It's a knock-out; again, just try not to get choked up when you hear it.This one's a keeper.