Where in the World Is Carmen Sandiego? by Original TV Soundtracks (CD, Nov-1992, Zoom Express)

I was given a promotional copy of this CD back in 1992 when I worked for a music distributor. It was almost instantly my favorite CD. I discovered Rockapella on a PBS Great Performances called "Spike Lee & Co. - Do It A Cappella." I had just about worn out my CD and video of "Do It" when I got "Carmen."

"Carmen" includes a cappella performances by Rockapella, as well as The Persuasions, who were also in "Do It." Plus, there's musical performances by a handful of other groups that are completely enjoyable. There's not a song on here that I'd skip over - however - there is some "filler" between songs that get a little tiresome after about the fiftieth time. Unfortunately, these "filler" bits are attached to the end of the previous song and not tracked separately or attached to the song that follows. This makes some songs end oddly with irrelevant banter. It's a minor point.

Do NOT make the mistake of thinking this is a kiddie CD. Kiddies will enjoy it, for sure, but there's none of that cutsey, whiney, "boing boing" stuff in the songs. Even at 14 years old (as of this writing), the songs do not seem dated and would fit happily on anybody's MP3 player.

There is a second soundtrack to the show, called "Out Of This World" with a recycled performance from They Might Be Giants, another song by XTC, and a handful of songs performed by the show's host. Do yourself a favor - forget it exists. "Where In The World Is Carmen Sandiego" is the one you want.

It's sad that this is out of print, but they can't keep EVERYTHIGN in print now, can they? But the REALLY sad part is that there weren't many of these to go around so finding one is difficult and expensive. IMHO, it's worth it, if you just want a well-done "feel good" CD in your collection. There's very little in the way of liner notes, so don't fret if you can't find one complete. If the CD works - GET IT!