Single-song releases by musical theater stars are rare. This one is by the rare talent of Carol Channing, sounding every bit the uniquely irrepressible personality she has long established. What a happy discovery to find that a special item has quietly emerged. "Modesto, You're My Hometown!" is a treat. Just listening to this song, you'll feel her smile and it's contagious. Carol sounds fine and fizzy celebrating the pleasures of her California town.

The tune is a swell, old-fashioned perky one, accentuated by the accompaniment of a nifty Dixieland band. Snappily and happily singing the city's praises ("There's water, wealth, contentment, health./ Who could ask for more? / It's what that dot on the map is known for ..."), this is cute fun. John Wyatt is the man who wrote the song, arranged it, co-produced and plays keyboards and trombone. He's one of the background vocalists, too. For trivial pursuit, you'll hear a quick instrumental lick that recalls the title song of a movie Carol appeared in, Thoroughly Modern Millie.

Alas, the accompanying DVD does not show the star performing the song. Nor is there any real action. The same recording is simply heard accompanying the visuals, which are a montage of still photos showing Modesto's buildings, local events, a bag of Modesto Nuts, and natural wonders - one of them being Carol Channing. She's seen in a few quick photos and the Al Hirschfeld caricature of her in her Hello, Dolly! splendor. As the credits lumber by, you hear an instrumental version of "There's No Business Like Show Business."