Rivera

Amazon.com
After 10 albums of slick salsa rhythms on the Sony Discos imprint, Puerto Rican heartthrob Jerry Rivera switches labels (to BMG U.S. Latin) and sounds on this eponymous effort. The album is a polished affair that finds the young singer wrapping his substantial vocals around a bevy of dreamy ballads and mid-tempo swooners. It's quite a shock considering Rivera's salsa-drenched history, but he handles most of the material well, thanks to the guidance of writer-producer Bebu Silvetti. The album's first single, "Quiero," is sure to make an impact, especially since it is featured in both ballads and salsa versions. (That trick has worked in the past for hit singles from Gisselle, Jaci Velasquez, and MDO.) The rest of the album is awash in dewy-eyed love songs, including "Tu," "Muero," and "Que Queda de Nuestro Amor," which seem poised to catapult Rivera into romantic balladeer status à la Luis Miguel. Some of the sounds are repetitive, but Rivera spices things up with "Vuelve," a Rudy Perez-produced track that rides a lilting pop beat, and "Caramelito," which features the now-requisite Santana-esque guitar riff. --Joey Guerra

Rivera,Jerry Rivera,Sony International,Bolero,Latin,Latin Music,Latin Pop,Salsa,Salsa/Merenge,Tropical

Music

jazz

music

Jazz

Average customer rating: Pure Listening Pleasure Appassionato Deep, Serious and diverse Yo-Yo Ma's Appassionato A soulful compilation

Appassionato Manufacturer: Sony Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Brahms | Brahms, Johannes | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Franck, César | ( F ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Gershwin | Gershwin, George | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Kabalevsky | Kabalevsky, Dmitri | ( K ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Piazzolla, Astor | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Saint-Saëns, Camille | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Vivaldi | Vivaldi, Antonio | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Mendelssohn | Mendelssohn, Felix | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Concertinos | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Cello | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Violin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Ma, Yo-Yo | ( M ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Movie Scores | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Soundtracks | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Classical | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Classical Instrumental Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Essential Yo-Yo Ma Not Too Late Voice of the Violin Lang Lang: Dragon Songs (Plus DVD) Yo-Yo Ma Plays Ennio Morricone ASIN: B000KWZ7DS Release Date: 2007-01-09

Tracks:

1. Going To School featuring John Williams
2. IV. Allegretto poco mosso from Sonata in A Major for Violin and Piano
3. II. Andante con moto e poco rubato from Three Preludes
4. II. Largo from "Winter", Op. 8, No. 4, RV 297 from the Four Seasons
5. Doce de coco
6. II. Largo from Concerto No. 1 in G minor for Cello and Orchestra, Op. 49
7. Cinema Paradiso: Nostalgia from Giuseppe Tornatore Suite
8. The Swan from Carnival of the Animals (Chamber Version)
9. Yanzi (Swallow Song)
10. II. Andante from Concerto for Violin, Cello and Orchestra in A minor,
11. Soledad
12. No. 4 Mikin Pekko from Five Finnish Folk Songs
13. First Impressions featuring Edgar Meyer; Mark O'Connor
14. Song Without Words, Op. 109
15. Gabriel's Oboe from The Mission featuring Ennio Morricone

Amazon.com

Any new compilation CD starring Yo-Yo Ma is certain to please. This master of the cello takes the listener through so many types of music that the ear and mind never tire. The present selection is billed as a sort of "musical autobiography," and, indeed, it gives us a tour of Ma's musical life. The Silk Road Project is represented by Zhao's "Swallow Song," with its eerie, fascinating soundscape (specially re-recorded for this CD). We also accompany Ma on his excursions into the world of the baroque cello with Vivaldi or of the Finnish folk song (by Mamiya, a first recording). There are Gershwin's languid Second Prelude, with its intimations of the song "Summertime," and an all-new recording of a nine-minute heart-breaker by Astor Piazzolla ("Soledad"). Ma also gives us more familiar Brahms, Franck, and Saint-Saens. The compilation's mellow 65 minutes offer relaxing, beautiful music, all exquisitely played. Ma is joined by the best: Emanuel Ax, Kathryn Stott, John Williams (who plays piano on his own "Going to School" from Memoirs of a Geisha), Isaac Stern, and Claudio Abbado. This is a veritable Who's Who of superb musicians. --Robert Levine

Customer Reviews:

Pure Listening Pleasure.......2007-05-18

There is no pretension in this collection - just the pure, simple pleasure in Ma's performance and in our enjoyment.

Appassionato.......2007-05-18

With a little help of some of his friends Yo Yo Ma offered us another of his masterpieces. No other title could define better the tracks selection, pleasant and inspired.

Deep, Serious and diverse.......2007-04-26

Yo Yo Ma is simply fantastic, and has arrived as such a height of recognition that any production he is invovled in will be top of the line, as this is.

This is a darker collection than I expected. And like a serious, reserved friend, it can take a little longer to appreciate than the bubbly outgoing ones. I now find I like it very much, but it is serious "conversation."

There is great variety here as well, and I gave it to a friend's teenager who is considering whether she wants to learn the cello. Her response was much the same as mine. Initially not so sure, but over time, has really come to like it, too. This collection has great depth.

Yo-Yo Ma's Appassionato.......2007-04-13

For those who share Yo-Yo Ma's passion for music, and especially his passion for diversity in music, and for connecting with the spirit of global humanity, this recording has a prominant place in your library.

A soulful compilation.......2007-04-13

I love this album for the diversity of music and the great programming. I especially love the collaboration with Isaac Stern, no longer with us in body, but always in music. Thanks YoYo.

Average customer rating: West Side Story Beautiful Gorgeous Music! Best version of the best Musical Fantastic CD!!!!!!

West Side Story (1957 Original Broadway Cast) Carol Lawrence , Larry Kert , and Chita Rivera Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Movie Scores | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music $7.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Instrumental | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Movie Scores | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Musicals | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: My Fair Lady (1956 Original Broadway Cast) South Pacific (Original 1949 Broadway Cast) Fiddler on the Roof (1964 Original Broadway Cast) Camelot (1960 Original Broadway Cast) A Chorus Line (1975 Original Broadway Cast) ASIN: B000056TB2 Release Date: 1998-09-15

Tracks:

1. Act I: Prologue
2. Act I: Jet Song
3. Act I: Something's Coming
4. Act I: The Dance At The Gym
5. Act I: Maria
6. Act I: Tonight
7. Act I: America
8. Act I: Cool
9. Act I: One Hand, One Heart
10. Act I: Tonight (Qnt And Chor)
11. Act I: The Rumble
12. Act II: I Feel Pretty
13. Act II: Somewhere(Ballet)
14. Act II: Gee, Officer Krupke
15. Act II: A Boy Like That/I Have A Love
16. Act II: FInale
17. Sym Dances: Prologue(Allegro Moderato)
18. Sym Dances: Somewhere(Adagio)
19. Sym Dances: Scherzo(Vivace E Leggiero)
20. Sym Dances: Mambo(Meno Presto)
21. Sym Dances: Cha-Cha(Andantino Con Grazia)
22. Sym Dances: Meeting Scene(Meno Mosso)
23. Sym Dances: Cool Fugue(Allegretto)
24. Sym Dances: Rumble(Molto Allegro)
25. Sym Dances: Finale(Adagio)

Amazon.com

What is there left to say about this musical, deservedly one of the most famous in the canon? Created by what lyricist Stephen Sondheim described as "a unique concatenation of people" (Leonard Bernstein, Sondheim, Arthur Laurents, Jerome Robbins), the show remains as explosively vibrant, daring, and modern as it was decades ago. Bernstein integrated Latin percussion and jazz into his electrifying score, dazzlingly translating New York's unique vitality into a musical idiom. West Side Story has been adapted for jazz and interpreted by pop and opera singers, but you owe it to yourself to check out the original version to see what the fuss was all about. This new reissue adds over 20 minutes of "symphonic dances" as well as liner notes and production photos. --Elisabeth Vincentelli

Customer Reviews:

West Side Story.......2007-06-13

It is like reviewing the bible. West Side Story is so fundemental to modern musical theater that it stands on its own.

Beautiful.......2007-04-01

I saw West Side Story on Broadway with this cast. It was wonderful to revisit this exceptional play and brilliant score. I always felt that the movie was schlock compared to the original play. I recommend this to anyone and everyone who loves beautiful music performed by exceptionally talented performers

Gorgeous Music!.......2007-03-18

I'm in love with this OBCR, and for good reason. It's West Side Story! How could you not love it?

But, for a more realistc review, this is an amazing cast recording. If you just take into consideration how long ago this was (50 years) and think about how far it's come, how much this musical has impacted the world, you already have an idea of how amazing this how must have beem. Beyond that, the orchestrations are beautiful, the performances wonderful and Mr. Sondheim's lyrics will make your breath catch in your throat.

What more could you want in a musical?

Best version of the best Musical.......2007-03-03

I first heard the original Broadway cast album of West Side Story when I was 8 years old. Since then I have heard the album from the motion picture and the album recorded with opera stars including Kiri Te Kanawa. Although the latter two are excellent efforts, I think (and always will) that the original Broadway cast album with Carol Lawrence and Larry Kern is the definitive treatment. The energy, freshness, enthusiasm and feeling are at once captivating, exciting and uplifting. The sense of character and atmosphere is incomparable. It is possibly a help that this album was recorded at the time when the reality of New York and its demographics (including the street gangs) portrayed in the work was still fresh and relevant. I could rattle on for ages about this wonderful work but I will spare the patient reader. All I can say is, if you love this wonderful piece of art and don't possess this version, do yourself the biggest of favours and buy it. Listen to it again and again and let it work its magic on you. You won't regret it! Olé!

Fantastic CD!!!!!!.......2007-01-16

The high pitched click on the 12/13 second mark that was mentioned in a previous review is, I believe, just the sound of Riff and Bernardo pulling out their knives. As for any confusion about the difference in song order and lyric changes for those used to the movie, in the Broadway play the song "Cool" was sung before the war council and the song "Gee, Officer Krupke" was sung after the Rumble. In the movie they switched these two songs. (Appropriately, I think.) In the movie they also changed where the song "I Feel Pretty" was. Which is why the lyrics changed from: "I feel pretty and witty and bright! And I pity any girl who isn't me tonight!" to the words "gay" (meaning happy of course) and "day". In the movie some changes (mostly slight ones) were made to the lyrics in most of the songs. Bernardo and the Sharks were also added to the song "America". The "Somewhere Ballet" was not done in the movie due to the budget and time. If you are used to the movie version the Broadway version might seem a bit odd. Overall it is a wonderful CD with lovely singing, and music.

-A reviewer (though not necessarily a child)

Average customer rating: pure genius Another great Yo-Yo Disc first disc great- second a flop Encore The Versatile Yo-Yo Ma

The Essential Yo-Yo Ma Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Quartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Trios | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by J.S. Bach | Bach, Johann Sebastian | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Brahms | Brahms, Johannes | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Dvorák, Antonín | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Gershwin | Gershwin, George | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Kreisler | Kreisler, Fritz | ( K ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Massenet | Massenet, Jules | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Piazzolla, Astor | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Porter | Porter, Cole | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Saint-Saëns, Camille | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Shostakovich | Shostakovich, Dmitri | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Tchaikovsky | Tchaikovsky, Peter Ilyich | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Villa-Lobos, Heitor | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Vivaldi | Vivaldi, Antonio | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by O'Connor | O'Connor, Mark | ( O ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Rachmaninov | Rachmaninov, Sergei | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Villa-Lobos, Heitor | Composers | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Cello | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Violin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Ma, Yo-Yo | ( M ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music New York Philharmonic Orchestra | ( N ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Cantatas | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Movie Scores | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Classical Instrumental Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Appassionato Yo-Yo Ma Plays Ennio Morricone Vivaldi's Cello Classic Yo-Yo Silk Road Journeys: Beyond the Horizon ASIN: B000A7Q29G Release Date: 2005-08-16

Tracks:

1. Prde from Suite No. 1 in G Major for Cello, BWV 1007
2. II. Largo from "Winter", Op. 8, No. 4, RV 297 from the Four Seasons
3. Jesus, bleibet meine Freude (Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring), BWV 147
4. Schafe kn sicher weiden (Sheep May Safely Graze), BWV 208
5. Wachet auf, ruft uns die Stimme (Sleepers Awake), BWV 645
6. The Swan from Carnival of the Animals (Chamber Version)
7. Havanaise, Op. 83
8. Mtation from Tha
9. Liebesfreud Instrumental
10. Allegro ben ritmato e deciso from Three Preludes
11. Vocalise Vocal
12. IV. Allegro from Sonata in D minor for Cello and Piano, Op. 40
13. Andante Cantabile for Cello Solo and String Orchestra, Op. posth.
14. IV. Rondo alla Zingarese. Presto from Quartet No. 1 in G minor for Piano and Strings, Op. 25
15. III. Finale. Allegro moderato from Concerto in B minor for Cello and Orchestra, Op. 104

Tracks:

1. Cristal
2. A lenda do caboclo
3. Chega de Saudade Live
4. Wapango Live
5. Libertango
6. Appalachia Waltz Solo Cello Version
7. Butterfly's Day Out
8. 1B
9. Pickin' from Three Pieces for Solo Cello
10. Simple Gifts
11. The Mission
12. Gabriel's Oboe
13. The Falls Album Version
14. The Eternal Vow from Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon
15. The Cellist of Sarajevo - A Lament in Rondo Form for Solo 'Cello, Op. 12
16. Chi passa per'sta strada
17. Mido Mountain (Chinese Traditional)
18. Mohini (Enchantment)
19. Baroque in Rhythm from Suite for Cello and Jazz Piano Trio
20. Anything Goes Instrumental
21. I Could Have Danced All Night Extended version

Amazon.com

Here are three dozen pieces of music, all played by Yo-Yo Ma, culled from his extensive discography. Aside from the technical mastery and beautiful tone that are absolutes in all of his playing, one is dazzled by his curiosity and ability to adapt to so many forms and types of music. His Bach and Vivaldi are pellucid and played with non-sentimental crispness, his tango music gritty and rhythmically pungent, his jazz seemingly spontaneous, the "Meditation" from Thais simply ravishing, "Anything Goes" a romp, and the Appalachian music performed with both respect and a great twang, while the traditional Chinese music is fascinating. It's really a matter of how much Ma loves whatever he plays here, how entirely he becomes involved in it, and what a fine partner he invariably is to other musicians. This collection is a doozy--it is truly "essential." --Robert Levine

Customer Reviews:

pure genius.......2007-05-21

No instrument asks more from the soul of an artist as the cello does.
Yo Yo Ma shows to be master of the instrument and his interpretations en technique are pure genius. Everyone should have this album in his (or hers of course) basic classical collection

Another great Yo-Yo Disc.......2007-05-15

The set-up with the classical pieces on the first disc and the other on the second is excellent.

first disc great- second a flop.......2007-04-12

the first disc is awesome. the second disc is weird and boring.

Encore.......2007-03-31

Incredible. My young cellist (son) loves it. Beautiful music. The album is well organized and each song transitions nicely.

The Versatile Yo-Yo Ma.......2007-03-29

I've found this collection to be extremely delightful! It gives you a sense of the versatility of Yo-Yo Ma like no other, with one disc being dedicated more to his classical side, while the other explores jazz and world music venues. Not your typical "greatest hits" collection.

Average customer rating:

Funk Tango Paquito d'Rivera Manufacturer: Sunny Side Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Cuba | Caribbean & Cuba | International | Styles | Music General | Caribbean & Cuba | International | Styles | Music Latin Pop | Latin Music | Styles | Music General | Jazz | Styles | Music Latin Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music Similar Items: Rumba Palace Raise Your Hand Pilgrimage Arturo Sandoval & the Latin Jazz Orchestra Greetings from Havana ASIN: B000P46QGS Release Date: 2007-05-22

Tracks:

1. Pere
2. What About That!
3. Revirado
4. Contradanza
5. Milongo
6. Final Waltz
7. Funk Tango
8. Mariela's Dream
9. La Yumba-Caravan
10. Como un Bolero
11. Giant Steps

Product Description

Paquito D Rivera introduces, Paquito Records, with the premier release of Paquito D Rivera Quintet? Funk Tango. With over 50 recordings in the varied musical styles that he loves to perform and create, Paquito finally has a label where he can be himself. Paquito Records. With Paquito D Rivera Quintet? Funk Tango an allegory to the fact that his quintet can sometimes be a trio or a sextet, or an orchestra, or a duo, he is joined by his trusted core musicians, some of which have been with him for almost 20 years. These are, Mark Walker on drums, Oscar Stagnaro on bass, Diego Urcola on trumpet and valve-trombone, Alon Yavnai, on piano, Pernell Saturnino on percussion and Hector Del Curto on Bandoneon, with additional pianists Ed Simon, (an old band member), and Fernando Otero, and newcomer Pablo Stagnaro on cajon.
This recording features original compositions from practically all the band members, and highlights the diversity of styles in composition as well as performance. You will surely enjoy a journey, from a funky tango, as the title suggest, to Peruvian rhythms on Mariela s Dream to the elegant Cuban Contradanza , by the way of a bolero, to a waltz, samba, milonga, to the final return of the jazz standard Giant Steps .

Average customer rating: Energy proliferates It's not the best--but buy it anyway! Cute Classic Unexpected but not disappointed Bye Bye Birdie vocal CD

Bye Bye Birdie (1960 Original Broadway Cast) Lee Adams Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Musicals | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Bye Bye Birdie Bye Bye Birdie The Pajama Game (1954 Original Broadway Cast) Bye Bye Birdie (1963 Film Soundtrack) Bye Bye Birdie: The New Soundtrack Recording (1995 Television Cast) ASIN: B00004THM0 Release Date: 2000-05-30

Tracks:

1. Act I: Overture
2. Act I: An English Teacher
3. Act I: The Telephone Hour
4. Act I: How Lovely To Be A Woman
5. Act I: Put On A Happy Face
6. Act I: A Healthy, Normal, American Boy
7. Act I: One Boy
8. Act I: Honestly Sincere
9. Act I: Hymn For A Sunday Evening (Ed Sullivan)
10. Act I: One Last Kiss
11. Act II: What Did I Ever See In Him?
12. Act II: A Lot Of Livin' To Do
13. Act II: Kids
14. Act II: Baby, Talk To Me
15. Act II: Kids Reprise
16. Act II: Spanish Rose
17. Act II: Rosie
18. Charles Strouse At The Smithsonian: Put On A Happy Face

Amazon.com

A lighthearted romp reflecting the Elvis revolution, Bye Bye Birdie follows Albert Peterson (a pre-Mary Poppins Dick Van Dyke), the manager of rock & roller Conrad Birdie (Dick Gautier), who is sweeping through the town of Sweet Apple on a publicity stunt surrounding his being drafted into the Army. Meanwhile, Albert's faithful but exasperated secretary (Chita Rivera) hopes he will give up show business to settle down with her and become a respectable English teacher. In Charles Strouse and Lee Adams's energetic and tuneful score, Van Dyke sings the standard "Put On a Happy Face," the high schoolers are high schoolers ("A Lot of Livin' to Do," "The Telephone Hour," "One Boy") and bewilder their parents ("Kids"), Gautier thrusts his hips ("Honestly Sincere," "One Last Kiss"), and homage is paid to that icon of home entertainment, Ed Sullivan ("Hymn for a Sunday Evening"). Bye Bye Birdie won the 1961 Tony for Best Musical, and Van Dyke reprised his role in the 1963 film version. The 2000 remastering features outstanding clarity as well as a bonus track of Strouse himself introducing and singing "Put On a Happy Face" at a Smithsonian lecture in 1978. --David Horiuchi

Customer Reviews:

Energy proliferates.......2007-05-13

I saw the live version, albeit with the Australian cast, many years ago. It comprised a wonderfully vibrant, energetic cast. This version had just as much tuneful energy as the live show. I must say, though, that I was disappointed that some of what was in the live show was omitted. Regardless, it is still an exciting production.

It's not the best--but buy it anyway!.......2007-03-31

Because of the nature of the musical, there is something not as good about it being done by professionals. I'm sure that sounds ridiculous, but it's true. You will not see, or hear "Bye Bye Birdie" done better than by pimply awkward teenagers at your local high school who can just barely stay on key. Seriously. The charm of this musical is you don't have to be GREAT to be in it. With that said, I still recommend this album. It's fun. Not as great as some other musicals (I recommend "Cinderella," "The Fantasticks," "Guys and Dolls," or "You're a Good Man Charlie Brown"), but a good deal better than others (okay, I'll spare you a list of the ones I hate).

Cute Classic.......2006-11-09

If you started to sing "Grey skies are gonna clear up..." I'm sure everyone could finish "Put ona happy face." But not everyone knows that little tune is from Bye, Bye, Birdie. This musical is a sweet little show that really is in between the classic musical style and the modern musical. Its quite enjoyable to listen to if you want some light toe tappers. It also has some good ballads and duets. So its a nice CD to have and $11 isnt a bad price. However if your looking for the next CD that'll be on repeat in your player for the next month, this is not it. I would hope collectors would have this one, but if not get it. People who have just started likeing musicals, this isnt a bad one to test the waters outside of the classical musical or the modern musical. Favorite song: "Baby, Talk to Me"

Unexpected but not disappointed.......2006-03-28

I love Bye Bye Birdie, but I have only seen the movie. I really like Broadway cast recordings so I thought I would order this instead because several cast members were the same and there were some other big name additions. However this recording is nothing like the movie. Even the same actors have different melody lines and lyrics. It is however upbeat, bright and fun to sing along with.

Bye Bye Birdie vocal CD.......2006-03-03

Great service, and exactly the music I was looking for!

Average customer rating: As Good As The Original My impressions of Nine The samples on this page are from the original Great Revival Cast! A stellar version of "Nine"

Nine - The Musical (2003 Broadway Revival Cast) Maury Yeston , Antonio Banderas , Chita Rivera , Jane Krakowski , and Laura Benanti Manufacturer: P.S. Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Similar Items: Nine (1982 Original Broadway Cast) The Last 5 Years (2002 Off-Broadway Cast) Curtains (2007 Original Broadway Cast) Grey Gardens - A New Musical (2006 Original Broadway Cast) Sweeney Todd (2005 Broadway Revival Cast) ASIN: B00008Z1NB Release Date: 2003-06-17

Tracks:

1. Overture Delle Donne - Company
2. Spa Music - Company
3. Not Since Chaplin - Company
4. Guido's Song - Antonio Banderas & Company
5. My Husband Makes Movies - Mary Stuart Masterson
6. A Call from the Vatican - Jane Krakowski
7. Only With You - Antonio Banderas
8. The Script - Antonio Banderas
9. Folies Bergeres - Chita Rivera, Saundra Santiago & Company
10. Nine - Mary Beth Peil
11. Ti Voglio Bene/Be Italian - Myra Lucretia Taylor
12. The Bells of St. Sebastian - Antonio Banderas & Company
13. A Man Like You - Laura Benanti, Antonio Banderas
14. Unusual Way - Laura Benanti, Antonio Banderas
15. Contini Submits - Antonio Banderas
16. The Grand Canal - Antonio Banderas & Company
17. Every Girl in Venice - Deidre Goodwin & Company
18. Amor - Antonio Banderas & Company
19. Only You - Antonio Banderas & Company
20. Finale - Antonio Banderas & Company
21. Simple - Jane Krakowski & Laura Benanti
22. Be On Your Own - Mary Stuart Masterson
23. I Can't Make This Movie - Antonio Banderas
24. Getting Tall - William Ullrich
25. Reprises - Antonio Banderas & Company

Amazon.com

This version of Maury Yeston's Nine is so finely wrought that it deservedly won the 2003 Tony for Best Revival. While not a blockbuster, the original 1982 production, staged by Tommy Tune, was a nice success and allowed Raul Julia to make a splash as the only man in an otherwise entirely feminine cast. Inspired by Fellini's film 8 1/2, Nine succeeds in creating a strong male lead while parcelling out great songs to several different women. The mere fact that Antonio Banderas doesn't get eaten alive by the power cast around him (Chita Rivera, Mary Stuart Masterson, Jane Krakowski, and Laura Benanti) testifies to his charisma; even better, his singing is surprisingly confident ("Only with You" is downright sweet). And leave it to the Broadway pros to shine like diamonds: Listen, in particular, as Jane Krakowski steals the show with her sassy delivery of "A Call from the Vatican." You may need a cold shower after that one. --Elisabeth Vincentelli

Description

Winner of 5 Tony Awards®, including Best Musical, the show the New York Post hailed as "a true original" and The Daily News called "brilliant, daring, innovative and divine" returns in a spectacular new production. The new broadway cast recording includes Antonio Banderas with music and lyrics by Maury Yeston.

Customer Reviews:

As Good As The Original.......2006-07-26

I'll admit I wasn't a fan of the original, but this revival has won me over. And now I really like both cast albums.
The revival cast is just as good as the original, Banderas well cast as Guido. I prefer Chita Rivera over Lilliane Montevecchi on Follies Bergere,(could never understand what the hell she was singing!) And while Jane Krakowski is not exactly the (sadly) late Anita Morris, she is sexy in a different way and it works. I love Mary Stuart Masterson, who knew she was such a terrific singer?
The whole CD is beautifully done!

My impressions of Nine.......2006-02-23

Good music; very good performances. Am now acquainted with other sides of these performers.

The samples on this page are from the original.......2005-07-10

So I went to listen to some samples of the CD on Amazon before I bought it, and lo and behold, Amazon cheated a little and put the original Broadway cast album up for samples, not the revival. That is definitely Raul Julia singing, not Antonio Banderas. Amazon- get it together!

Great Revival Cast!.......2005-06-11

The cast & orchestrations are incredible for the Tony-winning 2003 revival of "Nine", surpassing even the original 1982 production.

Best tracks include:

My Husband Makes Movies
A Call From The Vatican [Jane Krakowski's Tony-winning number]
Only With You [Antonio Banderas' version outshines Raul Julia's original]
Folies Bergeres [Chita Rivera's big song]
The Bells Of St. Sebastian [though the original is somewhat better]
Unusual Way [Banderas/Benanti's beautiful duet & best song of the show]
Simple
Be On Your Own [Mary Stuart Masterson's gut-wrenching song]

A truly beautiful score!

A stellar version of "Nine".......2005-04-12

This revival recording of "Nine" is superb. I actually prefer it to the original Broadway recording and the London concert version (which are both fine). Maury Yeston's music and lyrics are among the best for any modern musical, and the cast here is ideal.

The performances are exemplary, from Antonio Banderas as womanizing film director Guido Contini and Mary Stuart Masterson as his long-suffering wife Luisa, to Laura Benanti, Jane Krakowski, and the rest. Their singing easily matches or surpasses the previous casts, and their acting on the whole is stronger. They just feel more assured to me. Banderas also sounds more feasibly Italian than previous Guidos, which is useful in terms of the character. For their part, the women put on fake accents, which has the potential to be a distraction, but here didn't bother me at all.

Highlights from the score and this album include Banderas's charismatic rendition of "Guido's Song," Krakowski's sexy "A Call from the Vatican," Benanti's almost impossibly-beautiful version of "Unusual Way," and Masterson's bitter and expertly acted "Be On Your Own." The orchestra here is smaller than previous versions, but this doesn't detract in any significant way. The strength of the music and the performances comes through just fine.

Average customer rating: The Best CHICAGO version There is!! Great Fun to listen To!! Poor Before Its Time! American Black Humor At Its Theatrical Best The start of something very special..

Chicago - A Musical Vaudeville (1975 Original Broadway Cast) John Kander , Fred Ebb , Gwen Verdon , and Chita Rivera Manufacturer: Arista ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music Traditional Vocal Pop | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Similar Items: Chicago - The Musical (1996 Broadway Revival Cast) Cabaret (Original Broadway Cast) Gypsy - A Musical Fable (1959 Original Broadway Cast) Sweet Charity: A New Musical Comedy (1966 Original Broadway Cast) 42nd Street (1980 Original Broadway Cast) ASIN: B000002VSP Release Date: 1996-11-12

Tracks:

1. Overture - Orchestra
2. All That Jazz - Chita Rivera
3. Funny Honey - Gwen Verdon
4. Cell Block Tango - Chita Rivera
5. When You're Good To Mama - Mary McCarty
6. All I Care About - Jerry Orbach
7. A Little Bit Of Good - M. O'Haughey
8. We Both Reached For The Gun - Gwen Verdon
9. Roxie - Gwen Verdon
10. I Can't Do It All Alone - Chita Rivera
11. My Own Best Friend - Gwen Verdon
12. Me And Me Baby - Gwen Verdon
13. Mr. Cellophane - Barney Martin
14. When Velma Takes The Stand - Chita Rivera
15. Razzle Dazzle - Jerry Orbach
16. Class - Chita Rivera
17. Nowadays - Gwen Verdon
18. All That Jazz Reprise - Chita Rivera

Customer Reviews:

The Best CHICAGO version There is!! Great Fun to listen To!!.......2005-12-09

There are lots of CHICAGO records. But the original has to be the best. Gwen Verdon is loads of fun to listen to on this cd. Especially in the songs "Funny Hunny" and "Roxie". And nobody can sing "All That Jazz" as good as Chita Rivera does. Chita is also good in the songs "I Can't Do It Alone" and "When Velma Takes The Stand" and "Class".
I recomend this cd to any CHICAGO fans and anyone who loves Broadway Cast Recordings!

Poor.......2005-08-12

With all of the productions of Chicago that have been and gone in this world, there are few that could be as forgettable as this recording.

With a seemingly excellent cast upon first view, I expected so much more from this early recording. Rivera's powerful yet run-of-the-mill performance is one of very few good things here, after all, anything could out-shine Verdon's elderly performance in which every note she manages to warble sounds like it'll be her last. Some say her performance was meant to be "over-the-hill", however, to me, it sounds like she passed the hill many miles back.

Chicago has never, to me, been a show of much calibre but this recording is probably one of the very worst in existence. Upon first listening you might think... "Oh, `tis not that bad, I don't know what he's talking about", but, when played alongside more recent recordings you will see what I mean. This recording is great if you're a fan of Chita Rivera as you can tell she is trying hard, and, although I think she doesn't suit this role entirely, does a creditable job. Verdon on the other hand... a big mistake.

The basic foundations of the what I think of this recording being laid out, I must say that I did enjoy Orbach's performance as Billy Flynn. He seems to master the role with confidence and his clear voice is perfect for "All I Care About".

Look elsewhere if you're a newcomer to the show but buy if you like Chita Rivera!

Before Its Time!.......2005-07-24

Living in the shadows of that season's deserved blockbuster, "A Chorus Line", "Chicago" lived in relative obscurity.
Despite its fantastic leads, Chita Rivera, Gwen Verdon and Jerry Orbach, "Chicago" was probably ahead of its time. Fortunately, the excellent 1996 Revival exposed the masses to this Kander/Ebb masterpiece!

Best tracks:

All That Jazz
Cell Block Tango
When You're Good To Mama
All I Care About
Roxie
Razzle Dazzle
Nowadays

Great cd of this incredible score, but extra star goes to stellar 1996 Revival!

Or try excellent movie soundtrack!

American Black Humor At Its Theatrical Best.......2005-03-29

Ah, Chicago, why did the Tony awards go to A Chorus Line instead? As the old saying goes, "You was robbed!" No doubt the general public took more easily to the other musical's lighter tone and more acceptable storyline about struggling musical performers. But Chicago was the better show, in terms of songs, dancing and talented leads. It's just that the humor was so dark . . . and wonderful. Adapted from an old story by the writing team of John Kander and Fred Ebbs, and placed in the capable hands of the great Bob Fosse, this musical took a turn to the dark side when its director/choreographer nearly died of a heart attack partway through its composition. When Fosse recovered, he altered its tone and changed it into one of the finest pieces of theatrical black comedy, right up there with Sweeney Todd. In Chicago, the American legal system is reduced to who screws who, to a showcase where there are stars du jour, each fading as quickly as she enters the limelight of public sympathy. As the great Jerry Orbach says at the start of Razzle Dazzle, "It's all show biz, kid." From start to finish, this musical takes the audience on a tour of the Roaring 20's legal system, which bears an uncomfortable resemblance to our present-day one. But it's all served up with such style, such panache, that it's a real treat. Chita Rivera sizzles as the sultry Velma; Gwen Verdon is both tough and pitiful as Roxie, the hapless client of sleazy lawyer Billy Flynn. Flynn, of course, is the real villain or anti-hero of this show, the cynical cad who charms and manipulates the media to win acquittal for his guilty-as-sin clients. This role fell to the late great Jerry Orbach, who sank his big white teeth into the role and made it indelibly his own. (Along with El Gallo from The Fantasticks) The rest of the cast is excellent, too, from Christopher Chadman as Fred Casely to Cheryl Clark as Liz; everyone's great in his role and pulls the story along. The courtroom scene is our favorite part, especially when Orbach sings in a high-pitched voice for Verdon, who's perched on his knee like a ventriloquist's dummy, moving her mouth to his words as he sings We Both Reached For The Gun. Razzle Dazzle and All That Jazz are also standouts, but no song in this musical seems out of place; all fit in and are superbly done by this original cast. The CD is well-produced and sure to please. We highly recommend it for fans of black humor in American theater---enjoy!

The start of something very special.........2004-08-08

The original cast recording of Chicago is very good. This is what started it all. Sometimes overloooked, but the Original Cast Recording for Chicago is something that shouldn't be missed.

Gwen Verdon and Chita Rivera are the two leading ladies. Both are very good. No one can top Chita! She was absolutely amazing as Velma, and I wish we could've heard the complete score with Chita. Chita gives a soulful and sassy "All That Jazz", makes "The Cell Block Tango" shine with her monolouge, and gives a great "I Can't Do It Alone", and "When Velma Takes the Stand". Gwen Verdon is also quite good as the first Roxie ever. If it wasn't for Gwen there would be NO Chicago, because it was her idea to have a musical made about Roxie Hart. Her husband at the time the legend Bob Fosse wrote the amazing book for the show, directed the show, and lended his amazing choreography for the musical. Gwen doe's a fine job with "Funny Honey", "Roxie", and gives a beautiful ballad version of "Me and My Baby".
Jerry Orbach and the supporting cast also do a fine job. Jerry gives a good "All I Care About", and "We Both Reached for the Gun".

So, this cast recording shouldn't be missed, Chita will amaze you, and you won't be left dissapointed. Get some orginal Chicago!

Average customer rating: SIMPLY AWESOME!

Mi Vida Loca Jenni Rivera Manufacturer: Fonovisa Inc. ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Latin Music | Styles | Music Banda | Latin Music | Styles | Music Corridos | Latin Music | Styles | Music Mexico | International | Styles | Music Similar Items: Te Voy a Mostrar Parrandera, Rebelde y Atrevida Desatados Promesas No El Amor Que Nunca Fue ASIN: B000NA1ZEC Release Date: 2007-04-03

Tracks:

1. Intro: Escuchame
2. Mi Vida Loca
3. Intro: Mi Primer Amor
4. Ahora Que Estuviste Lejos
5. Intro: Look At Me Now
6. Mirame
7. Intro: Nuestro Padre
8. Sangre De Indio
9. Intro: Que Bonito Se Siente
10. La Sopa Del Bebe
11. Intro: La Manutencion
12. Cuanto Te Debo
13. Intro: Equivocada
14. I Will Survive
15. Intro: Mi Madre Y Yo
16. Dejame Vivir
17. Intro: Mis Hermanos Y Yo
18. Hermano Amigo
19. Intro: Yo Era Su Reina
20. Dama Divina
21. Intro: Pimienta Y Especies
22. Inolvidable
23. Intro: Madre Y Padre
24. Sin Capitan
25. Intro: Metamorfosis
26. Mariposa De Barrio
27. Gracias... Mi Gente

Customer Reviews:

SIMPLY AWESOME!.......2007-05-25

I LOVE THIS CD. JENNI RIVERA ONCE AGAIN PLEASES WITH HER REBEL LYRICS!

Average customer rating: windplayer A Feisty Classical Recording - who knew? Stunningly original Winds of subversive change There is something special about Imani Winds.

The Classical Underground Manufacturer: Koch Int'l Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Quintets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Piazzolla, Astor | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Schifrin | Schifrin, Lalo | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Similar Items: Imani Winds Umoja A La Carte - Short Works for Winds A Life of le Jazz Hot 4 + Four ASIN: B0006UEVLI Release Date: 2005-01-25

Tracks:

1. Astor Piazzolla: Liber Tango (arr. Jeff Scott)
2. Paquito D'Rivera: Aires Tropicales: Alborada
3. Paquito D'Rivera: Aires Tropicales: Son
4. Paquito D'Rivera: Aires Tropicales: Habanera
5. Paquito D'Rivera: Aires Tropicales: Vals Venezolano
6. Paquito D'Rivera: Aires Tropicales: Dizzyness
7. Paquito D'Rivera: Aires Tropicales: Contradanza
8. Paquito D'Rivera: Aires Tropicales: Afro (arr. Jeff Scott)
9. traditional spiritual: Steal Away (arr. VColeman)
10. V. Coleman: Concerto for Wind Quintet: Afro
11. V. Coleman: Concerto for Wind Quintet: Vocalise
12. V. Coleman: Concerto for Wind Quintet: Danza
13. Lalo Schifrin: La Nouvelle Orleans
14. Jeff Scott: Homage to Duke

Customer Reviews:

windplayer.......2007-04-09

This quintet has been going strong for about 10 years but they keep getting better all the time. The Grammy-nominated album breaks new ground for wind quintets. Many of the arrangements of Jeff Scott (horn) and Valerie Coleman (flute) as well as their collaborations with Paquito D'Rivera aren't what you hear from traditional quintets--these are self-described "classical musicians" who would be formidable in a symphonic wind section. But add afro-latin-inspired percussion and some vocalese and they produce something more from an Argentenian tango hall or a Cuban club . One of the best new classical albums of the year and highly recommended.

A Feisty Classical Recording - who knew?.......2005-05-08

This is the first classical recording I ever bought, and it's fabulous. Lively, interesting, eclectic. And a tight, tight ensemble that's obviously totally uninterested in the status quo. Great music.

Stunningly original.......2005-04-27

This CD is an edgy, fresh look at the genre of the woodwind quintet. Instead of the typical 20th century (mostly French) literature that woodwind quintets typically perform, the Imani Winds have sought out (and composed) works by African and Latin American composers. The result is an energetic, technically-demanding, and passionate recording of great music.

You'll never think of woodwind quintets the same way again.
-Shelley Collins, flute teacher in Seattle, WA

Winds of subversive change.......2005-03-15

Wind quintets don't have to be staid; sometimes they're subversive. Imani Winds horn player Jeff Scott, for example, has arranged "Afro," the final movement of Cuban composer Paquito D'Rivera's Aires Tropicales (1994), adding a mysterious introduction with chimes, bongos, rattles and moans to the flute trills and bassoon ostinato, reinterpreting "what is on the page." On flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon and French horn, the five wind players of Imani -- it means "faith" in Swahili -- aim to create "urban classical music," and certainly their reading of Aires is less traditional than those of the Aspen and Dorian wind quintets.
Flutist Valerie Coleman has composed an Afro-Cuban Concerto for Wind Quintet that concludes with a galloping "Danza." Scott's arrangement of Argentinian composer Astor Piazzolla's "Liber Tango" features clarinet pulses and horn shouts; he even layers R&B rhythms into his spiritual "Homage to Duke."
In the next four months, these Winds will swirl through Portland, Seattle and Eugene. If you've lost hope that there's anything new under the classical sun, they'll help you keep the Imani.

There is something special about Imani Winds........2005-01-30

Vitality oozes from Imani Winds' latest release, Classical Underground. The quintet plays with astonishing virtuosity and a warm and tight sense of ensemble, but the freshness is what I find truly invigorating. This isn't your father's wind quintet. The diverse repertoire, which includes original music by two of the players, is full of joy and energy. At the same time, there is a serious and driven quality to the disc. Imani Winds seem to know that there is something different about them - and this realization comes across in an inspiring way.

Average customer rating: Quite average A world rhapsody All that a performance can be. Good music, engineering could be better a classical-Latin music blend

Obrigado Brazil Live in Concert Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Duets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Piazzolla, Astor | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Ma, Yo-Yo | ( M ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Obrigado Brazil Soul of the Tango: The Music of Astor Piazzolla Amorosa Paris La Belle Époque Entre Amigos/Among Friends ASIN: B0001CCX4S Release Date: 2004-02-10

Tracks:

1. Libertango
2. Chega de Saudade
3. Merengue
4. Menino
5. Aguas de Marco
6. Wapango
7. Doce de coco
8. Cristal
9. Andante and Allegro from Tango Suite
10. Afro
11. Bodas de Prata & Quatro Cantos
12. Aquarela do Brazil
13. Zita
14. So Danco Samba

Customer Reviews:

Quite average.......2007-06-27

It's not a bad quality CD but the music is variable and different. Even though I like most types of music, I think the composition is just average.

A world rhapsody.......2006-12-28

This is suberbly enhanced performance CD that captures Yo-Yo Ma and friends at their musical heights. The accompanying musicians, the Assasds, Paquito you-know-who, Kathyrn Stott and others add beautiful textures to the compositions of Piazzolla and Jobim to create a Latin influenced classical painting. This is music to play, go about your business at home and enjoy the different influences coming together. The sadness and happiness blend to reveal the emotions of life. Favorite songs include D'Rivera's "Afro" that sneaks up on you like breaking dawn to reveal the sunshine and life anew. Also Piazzolla's "Tango Suite" is a frenzied Yo-Yo Ma performance with suttle breaks on cello giving way to the Assadd's beautiful quite work on guitars to spike and peak your interest numerous times.This is good background music but it grabs your attention and makes you listen carefully so it can turn on you and be very demanding. Good for those quite times of work or reading.

All that a performance can be........2006-02-11

Keep in mind that The studio version of this performance is nothing short of brilliant. The material includes pieces from the likes of Astor Piazzolla, Jobim and Paquito D'Rivera. Then you come to discover that there is a live concert version (and Dvd) of the disc. There is nothing like having your cake and your ice cream in the same bowl. Well that is what the release of this disc is, Cake and Ice cream with the cherry on the top.

Peace:
The*Hot*Wax*Kid

Good music, engineering could be better.......2005-05-05

I bought the disk after hearing about the colaboration on NPR. The songs and performances are impecable, the variety is satisfying and fun. My only complaint is that the quality of the recording leaves something to be desired. Several times the recording level is not balanced between the instruments so that when listening to YoYo Ma playing, when joined by the saxaphone, it comes in too loud and ruins the mood.

I almost always prefer the live perfomances when the energy of the audience carries over to the performers. This is one case when I wish I had gotten the studio version.

a classical-Latin music blend.......2005-04-22

Yo Yo Ma and his fellow musicians make beautiful music in this mellow adaptation of melodies that have their origin in Latin America.
The opening track is a version of "Libertango", heard in the fabulous soundtrack of the film "The Tango Lesson", and one of the three compositions by Astor Piazzolla, in this concert that was recorded live at Carnegie Hall's Zankel Hall in 2003. The group of assorted and marvelous musicians toured the world with this music, and there is a cohesion between the performers and the material they are playing that is evident, and a pleasure to hear. One hears the applause, but it is not obtrusive, and the sound is excellent for a live recording.

Very impressive is the clarinet of 6 time Grammy Award winner and composer Paquito D'Rivera, who wrote 3 of the tracks, and shows his virtuosity and Cuban soul in 7 pieces, and I especially like his "Merengue".
Rosa Passos sings and plays guitar on 4 tracks, and has a soft, clear, and pleasing voice, and 3 of the songs she interprets so well are by her fellow countryman and Brazilian bossa nova artist Antonio Carlos Jobim.
Other musicians are Sergio and Odair Assad on guitars, Kathryn Scott on piano, Nilson Matta on bass, and Cyro Baptista on percussion. Yo Yo Ma is of course the household name among them, and is masterful in his interpretations throughout; I especially like him in D'Rivera's "Afro", a fascinating piece with some experimental sounds.
Other favorites for me are D'Rivera's "Wapango", and "Cristal" (Camargo Mariano), a rhythmic duet between Ma and Scott that is terrific.
This CD has the feel of a classical chamber concert, with the warmth of melodious Latin compositions, and is a nice and unique musical treat.
The foldout insert has liner notes by D'Rivera, recording info, and mini bios of Ma's 7 fellow musicians; total playing time is 72'07.

This package contains a bonus DVD, that includes 3 videos:
1. Piazzolla's "Libertango", from the original soundtrack of Sally Potter's film "The Tango Lesson", with clips of the great tango dancer Pablo Veron.
2. "Brasileirinho", by Waldir Azevedo, featuring Paquito D'Rivera, from the "Obrigado Brazil" CD.
3. Jobim's "Chega de Saudage" interpreted by Rosa Passos, from the "Obrigado Brazil" CD.
It also includes a very short interview with Yo Yo Ma.

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