Come Together: A Night For John Lennon's Words & Music

Celebrating the life and music of John Lennon, this 90-minute concert recorded in 2001 at New York's Radio City Music Hall features a disparate group of performers gathered together just three weeks after the events of September 11--so it's not surprising that the show has a somewhat somber tone, but that makes Lennon's message of universal peace somehow all the more relevant. As for the songs, the majority come from Lennon's Beatle days, including “In My Life” (Dave Matthews), “Strawberry Fields Forever” (Cyndi Lauper), and “Dear Prudence” (Alanis Morissette); but it's the material from his solo years that yields the most passionate performances, especially by Shelby Lynne (“Mother”) and Lou Reed (“Jealous Guy”). Host Kevin Spacey does a surprisingly effective turn on “Mind Games,” while the inclusion of Lennon's son Sean is both appropriate and touching. Sure to be popular, this is recommended. Aud: P. (S. Graham)