In this Tony-nominated 2023 Broadway revival of the macabre Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, celebrated vocalist Josh Groban sharpens his razor and preps the chair as the titular lead opposite stage and screen favorite Annaleigh Ashford. The discord and horror of Stephen Sondheim's songs pierce the heart as Groban's bombastic performance elevates the camp and terror. Ashford pulls emotional double duty as Mrs. Lovett, shining in comedic segments (such as "The Worst Pies in London," yuck) just as brightly as when she's baring her soul in vulnerable moments like "By the Sea." Maria Bilbao as Johanna brightens the darkness with her angelic range on "Green Finch and Linnet Bird," pairing perfectly with Jordan Fisher in the role of her love interest Anthony (his performance of "Johanna" is a standout). A supporting cast rounded out by notable performances from the Tony-winning Ruthie Ann Miles (the Beggar Woman), Stranger Things' Gaten Matarazzo (Tobias), John Rapson (Beadle Bamford), and Nicholas Christopher (as a delightfully wacky Pirelli) adds life and levity to the mix. This soundtrack, which arrived in September 2023 (six months after the live premier), was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album. ~ Neil Z. Yeung