As Easter is here, I will give the classic Jesus Christ Superstar film my annual viewing. Hard to believe it is over 50 years old and still such a rocking musical. It has always been a question in my mind as to why the film ends at the death of Jesus without diving into the happenings of the next few days. Well my curiosity has been answered with the new album by Peter Elizalde The Resurrection of Jesus Christ Superstar.
The multitalented musician first fell in love with the original back in 1973 as his high school years were coming to an end. The fire was lit. The music, the acting, the message. It all resonated with Peter Elizalde deeply. A deep seated dream was finally put on the table in 2012. He would create a sequel to the legendary rock opera. The process would take over a decade as delays would come up (Covid-19, etc) but Peter was kept on track by producer, and friend Eric Tunison. Together they brought in a worthy caliber of the musician to see the dream come to fruition.
As we dive in with the opening “Overture” Peter Elizalde lets us know what we are in for, a rock fueled arena level soundscape. The soaring energy jumps right through the speakers bringing us back to the original Jesus Christ Superstar to continue the story. The songwriter says “The core truth of this album is clear: Jesus Christ Superstar is God.”
The album shows it has a softer side as well with the beautiful “Mary At The Tomb.” The vocals of Brigette Renee Shewbridge soar with emotion as she shares the thoughts of a mother who has lost a son, yet knows there is more. The feel of the track allows the listener to relax and take it all in. More diversity is shown with “Let It Be Me” and its smooth sound with a touch of Doo-wop in the beat as the story unfolds.
‘Believe’ With Peter Elizalde
The faith of Peter Elizalde is on full display on “I Believe” with the vocal talent of Brigette Renee Shewbridge brought back to take it to new heights. The easy going track allows the message to be clear. Exactly where the story could be taken from the original.
Peter Elizalde lets darkness creep in with “Benediction – Old Deluder Satan.” It is delivered with an evil streak and a creeping bassline that is perfect for the vibe of the track. As it speeds up the power of rock guitar takes charge giving us both emotion and energy. A very enjoyable musical number that I would love to see performed on stage.
The story of Jesus’ resurrection continues to the finale “He Is Risen” with its joyful tone summarizing the full record. There is a funk tone that brings back a lot of the original movie’s style yet takes it to new heights. If you only have time for one track on this Easter Sunday, make it this one.
Happy Easter to all and let music lead us to a higher power.