Garland at the Grove is the debut live album by Judy Garland, released in mono on February 2, 1959 and in stereo on February 16, 1959[1] by Capitol Records, accompanied by Freddy Martin and his orchestra. The album was recorded at the Cocoanut Grove nightclub at the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles.[2]
The preceded Garland's famous run and landmark recording at Carnegie Hall by three years. The Cocoanut Grove show featured Garland with Freddy Martin's Orchestra, rather than others like Nelson Riddle or Billy May.
In 2008, the album was remastered and released in the compact disc format by DRG Records, the released included 13 "live" selections performances, three of which did not appear on the original LP.[3]
Billboard magazine commended the album, emphasizing its "exceptional" vocal performance, a "striking" cover photo, and "excellent" sound quality. They also noted the impressive comedic rendition of "Purple People Eater."[4]
William Ruhlmann of AllMusic website rated the album four out of five stars, noting that Garland's reputation as a live performer was established in the spring of 1951, yet it took eight years for her first commercially recorded live album to be released by Capitol Records.[2] He highlighted the enthusiastic audience, particularly during the encores when Garland invites requests.[2] Despite reportedly suffering from laryngitis—only occasionally noticeable—Ruhlmann emphasized her powerful performance and strong connection with the audience.[2]
Steven Suskin from Playbill stated that Garland at the Grove doesn't showcase Garland at her best, lacking the excitement of her Carnegie Hall album and featuring a subdued audience.[3] However, he recognized the album's value for fans, including popular songs like "Rainbow," "Trolley Song," and "Purple People Eater."[3] He appreciated Garland's rendition of "When the Sun Comes Out".[3]
Frank Behrens from the Brattleboro Reformer pointed that Garland performs several songs, including "When You're Smiling," "Day In-Day Out," and a medley featuring "Over the Rainbow" and noted some vocal challenges, particularly in the last mentioned.[5] Behrens praised Garland as the greatest American female singer and described the album as a treasured addition to her legacy.[5]
