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A New Direction in the "Land of Dreams"

In his latest album, Randy Newman breaks from his past work, mostly abandoning irony to explore autobiographical themes. Rock critic Ken Tucker says the effort is both refreshing and disappointing.

06:43
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Other segments from the episode on October 6, 1988

Fresh Air with Terry Gross, October 6, 1988: Interview with Tom Hanks; Review of Randy Newman's album "Land of Dreams"; Interview with Twiggy; Commentary on fantasies of musical stardom.
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27:37

Movie Actor Tom Hanks

Hanks made his name in Hollywood in films like Splash, The Money Pit, and Big. He stars opposite Sally Field in the new movie Punchline, in which he plays a standup comedian. To master the role, he developed and performed a routine, which he performed for months before shooting began.

Interview
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09:48

Twiggy on Film

The former teen model later pursued an acting career on stage and screen. Despite her efforts to distance herself from her early days in fashion, Twiggy says it would be untenable for her to give up her distinctive moniker. She costars in the new movie Madame Sousatzka, in which she plays an aspiring pop star.

Interview

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27:24

The Best Music of 1988

Rock critic Ken Tucker talks with Fresh Air host Terry Gross about the year in music. He says 1988 had an eclectic array of hits, with folk and hard rock albums both reaching the top of the charts.

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27:48

Singer and Songwriter Randy Newman

Newman made his mark in popular music with ironic lyrics about good old boys, petty criminals, saints and lovers. He also wrote the soundtracks for the films "The Natural" and "Ragtime." Newman's latest album, his first in five years, is titled "Land of Dreams."

Interview

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