Jeff Flaster Shows Why We Are "Following Jimmy Valentine"

I previously did not know the story of Jimmy Valentine. Now I can say I’m glad Following Jimmy Valentine is how I’m introduced to him, and that my musical-loving brain was definitely not disappointed.

Written and composed by Jeff Flaster, this cast album was inspired by an O. Henry story about redemption and a Hudson River School painting about hope. The score uses principles of classical music mixed with jazz, pop, and classic rock. It all started with The Beeches, who inspired Flaster to write a song starting with the words, “The war is over, but I still feel the shadow,” a line that’s felt in all the songs.

However, this line can specifically be found in one particular song. The concept album starts with “Easy Does It,” in which the title perfectly encapsulates the tune. The instruments are slow and simplistic without becoming boring. If I close my eyes I can almost imagine standing in that shoemaking shop as if it is an everyday occurrence.

To keep that whimsical feel this musical started with, “You Or Me” begins with a beautiful piano piece. When the male voice joins in, the notes are high yet comfortably in his range. For me, it sounded similar to something sung by Orpheus in Hadestown. The harmonies of the two voices combine with the piano to create an almost haunting atmosphere, similar to fighting, without the need for yelling.

Listen To “You Or Me” Here:

To end such a fun, powerful first act, is a song titled “Surrounded.” The song is sweet and in a way romantic, where the characters are choosing love over money and their past. It’s like you can hear the smiles on the faces of the singers as they sing such a sweet melody. The harmonies during the chorus are fun and lighthearted, quickly becoming an earworm even if you don’t know the words. The guitar during the bridge also adds a dramatic element to make the song even stronger.

One of the most difficult things to do when writing a musical is writing an unforgettable finale. Fraser does it particularly well with “Every Song.” The beginning sounds innocent and child-like, almost reminding me of the music from a jewelry box. The lyrics fit with this imagery, creating a sweet and playful vibe. When the tempo gets faster, the song becomes even more joyful, with every aspect mixing together in perfect harmony. This is especially true at the end, when all the singers come together to sing a final harmony fit for the stage.

The best part about this cast album is that you don’t need to know the story behind it to enjoy and understand. While listening to the songs, I found myself having fun and smiling, even without prior knowledge, and when I looked everything up in curiosity, I was even more intrigued. This musical is not only strong on its own, it can encourage reading an old story that can still be relevant today. Following Jimmy Valentine is definitely a musical I would find myself wanting to see live.