This is the soundtrack to Milos Forman's cinematic version of the Broadway show Hair. As with most adaptations from the stage, the results can be either hit or miss. While the film did not generate much in the way of critical or viewer acclaim, this album contains some noteworthy variations on the 1968 play. At the center is music from Galt MacDermot and James Rado, which likewise has remained as a sort of late-'60s aural time capsule. In more than a few cases, the movie's luminous cast takes the tunes to a new level. In particular, Treat Williams' portrayal of Berger shines throughout, especially during secondary numbers such as "I Got Life," which he unleashes into one of the disc's best performances. John Savage turns in a stellar rendering of the central figure, Claude, whose Middle American roots and values are challenged by the freedom offered in the burgeoning counterculture. His substance-induced "Where Do I Go?" becomes not only a pivotal plot point in the movie, but one of the best cuts on this effort. The support is of equal value with Beverly d'Angelo's "Good Morning Starshine" and Cheryl Barnes' reading of "Easy to Be Hard," both of which are among the strongest available. Nell Carter's big-screen debut could not have been cast any better. She captures the essence of "Abie Baby" and "White Boys" with a blend of soul and drama. Additionally, Carter plays a significant role in ensemble pieces such as "I Got No." Likewise, the contributions of Melba Moore are worth mentioning -- particularly her exceptional "3-5-0-0." Additionally, she is the sole member of both the motion picture and the original Broadway company. Rock vocalist/actress Ellen Foley's solo on "Black Boys" should be noted as a cameo appearance highlight. In 1999, a 20th anniversary edition of Hair was augmented with the numbers "Party Music" and "My Conviction." Plus, it sports a significantly expanded liner notes booklet.- Lindsay Planer