Vas

1. Vas

2. Inexplicable

3. Farolito

4. Devuelveme Mi Amor

5. Te Brindo

6. Cuento Que Te Amo

7. Pedacito de Tu Querer

8. Di Que Voy a Hacer Contigo

9. Mesera

10. Niña Dura

11. Tibios Besos

12. Esos Ojos Que Me Miran

Vas,Voz Veis,Universal Latino,Latin,Latin Pop,Latin Pop/Rock

Music

jazz

music

Jazz

Average customer rating: Inspired beyond words..... Breathtakingly Beautiful Feast for the ears Time Enough Hypnotic, emotional, and unique

Feast of Silence Vas Manufacturer: Narada ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | New Age | Styles | Music Meditation | New Age | Styles | Music Similar Items: In the Garden of Souls Portals of Grace Sunyata Elysium for the Brave Niyaz ASIN: B00020HDJO Release Date: 2004-05-18

Tracks:

1. Amrita (Churning The Sea Of Milk)
2. In Our Faith
3. Mandara
4. Izgrejala
5. Moksha
6. The Reaper And The Flowers
7. Bardo
8. Feast Of Silence
9. Kali Basa

Amazon.com

In their early days, Vas was often compared to Lisa Gerrard and Dead Can Dance, but they transcended that comparison long ago. Their sound is forged deep in Middle Eastern and Indian percussion with singer Azam Ali extolling a supralingua style of singing that morphs from ecstatic hieroglyphics to Bulgarian choirs. Born in Iran and raised in India, Ali's pristine voice is steeped in the traditions of those countries. Greg Ellis surrounds her with a global percussion orchestra of the imagination, mixing udu drums, frame drums, mridangam, dumbeks, and just about anything else from his global groove storeroom to create the throbbing rhythmic undertow of their music. His own "Moksha" for percussion, cellos, and bass is an epic, symphonic journey. Azam Ali sings in English for the first time on Feast of Silence, setting Longfellow's "The Reaper and the Flowers" and her own title track. "Feast of Silence" is a veiled reference to her personal travails of the last four years including the death of her mother, her first trip back to Iran since she was a child, and the demise of her personal relationship with Ellis. Despite the personal fractures in the vessel of Vas, Feast of Silence remains as cohesive and powerful as their three previous CDs. --John Diliberto

Customer Reviews:

Inspired beyond words............2006-10-23

Of all the VAS albums, this is my favourite, and an interesting evolution. The writing, song arrangements, production, the ambience, everything. And of course, above all...the beautiful angelic voice of Azam Ali. Every time I play this album for someone, they say "oh my God, who is that singer?" Greg Ellis' rhythms are brilliant here, very haunting and hypnotic, and not overdone as sometimes is the case with this type of music. The song Mandara floored me from the first time I heard it. The structure, the tension buildup, and the amazing vocal performance are just breathtaking.

Also great is Azam Ali's other project Niyaz, which has a more Middle-Eastern/Persian influence along with some electronic samples.

Breathtakingly Beautiful.......2006-10-06

First of all, a special thank you to Chelle, my best buddy on the net. She purchased this album for my birthday, from my amazon wishlist. I am forever grateful to have discovered Azam Ali, VAS & Niyaz through Chelle. ;-) Since receiving the CD in the mail yesterday, I've played it twice. Both times were mesmerizing and captivating. I absolutely LOVE "Feast of Silence". Nothing better could've come from this album, seriously. The tribal, ambient and wordly sounds in the recording are incredible, and I had to indulge by listening to the CD twice in a matter of 24 hours. A few, excellent artists come to mind when I listen to "Feast of Silence". These are them: (Loreena McKennitt, Lisa Gerrard, Dead Can Dance, Diane Arkenstone, Ofra Haza). Because of Azam's remarkable, versatile voice, she can sing any style of music and do no wrong. I already have her "Portals of Grace" album, and the extractions from the "Elysium for the Brave" CD, but they aren't as great as this title from VAS. Azam Ali and Greg Ellis make a fantastic duo and I'm so proud of them for working together for so long. Hope they never stop! Greg is a very handsome man and so talented. Without his percussion work on the album, it just wouldn't sound the same. Just the cover photo alone sold me right away. I'm attracted to albums when they have attractive covers...so this helped me a lot in my choice for a wishlist item.

As I write in all my reviews, I look for sound quality. For "Feast of Silence", the sound is excellent. Unfortunately, the album is shorter than I thought, although...the songs are long. But all really great albums are too short. ;-) As I mentioned earlier, Azam reminded me of Loreena McKennitt and Lisa Gerrard (of Dead Can Dance) throughout the CD. And, I didn't expect Azam to sing such moving, versatile pieces of music. She can certainly put her own style into virtually anything she sings. "Feast of Silence" is a must-have for anyone's music collection. And at least I know to classify the album under "World"...as sometimes it's hard to classify such a masterpiece. There aren't any favorites on "FOS", because they're all super. The title track is just as stunning as the rest of them. I can't stress enough, how good this album is. You must have it!

Artwork is beautiful throughout the package. There is only 1 photo of the duo inside the booklet, but the entire layout has a beautiful design. The disc itself is a dark terra-cotta (almost brown) in color, with black "lacey" artwork in an Indian style. It's very nice. I don't know if the CD was only housed in a jewel case everywhere, but mine is. Visit the Narada site and check out more info on Azam Ali and her music (solo & collaborative). You won't regret it.

Tracklist:
01- Amrita (Churning the Sea of Milk) - 6:08
02- In Our Faith - 7:05
03- Mandara - 6:23
04- Izgrejala - 3:52
05- Moksha - 4:59
06- The Reaper and the Flowers - 4:22
07- Bardo - 10:16
08- Feast of Silence - 7:17
09- Kali Basa - 6:47

Feast for the ears.......2006-06-25

I have been listening to this one for several days now and must admit that I am impressed with it. It shows that this duo have grown quite a bit and it comes out almost as good to me as Ali's solo work. There are only a few brief moments on here that I just can't make it through (namely "the reaper in the flowers". sorry folks but this is boring). The Bulgarian vocal arrangements are particularly wonderful, as is the touch of Indian flavor on the third track. Azam Ali is reaching new levels as a vocalist on "Feast of Silence" and Greg Ellis is also coming up nicely...

Azam Ali also makes her English debut with this album, and does so fairly nicely. It's not a constant onslaught, as I had thought it might be, but it is there.

If you have not heard Vas before, and enjoy world music with deep classical undertones then this might be something you should check out. Azam Ali's voice is simply glorious.

Time Enough.......2005-08-05

I've followed Vas haphazardly for some time now, from the days when they were true minimalists, focused on Azam Ali's expressive voice and Greg Ellis's percussion work. The strong Medieval and Middle Eastern flavor was haunting as Ali created her own language to express emotions both plaintive and ecstatic. Their work gradually filled out and became increasingly complex and then, suddenly, they stopped recording. Sometimes the connection between love and creativity takes a long time to break and heal over.

Feast of Silence marks an overcoming of differences. Ali and Ellis work so well together that it's a bit of a relief to see that they have managed to find a new accommodation. Even more interesting it the fact that the music is a genuine departure for them in the midst of Ali's traditional stylings experiments like 'In Our Faith' appear. The music is mostly acoustic, but it dances on the edge with occasional electronic tidbits. In addition Ali steps over into the use of actual lyrics, revealing and underlying poetic spirit in work like 'Feast of Silence.'

For most of the cuts they work together. Each also has a track without the other - 'Moksha' (Elllis) and 'Feast of Silence' (Azam Ali). If I had to pick a favorite, though, it would be Izgrejaia, which is one long joyful effort. Joining the two leads are Tyler Bates one guitar and keyboard, Pejman Hadadi on tombak, Deepak Ram on bansuri, Cameron Stone on cello, Justin Meldal-Johnsen on bass, Naser Musa on oud and Brent Meyer on bouzuki. Far more musicians than they usually work with.

I hope this presages more albums to come from an innovative pair that have created their own musical niche.

Hypnotic, emotional, and unique.......2005-07-29

I've been a fan of Vas since I bought their third release, "In the Garden of Souls" a few years ago. It is has been far to long for me between releases, but the wait was worth it. This album is incredible. It is not only my favorite Vas album, but one of my all time favorite CDs.

The music is moving and rythmic with soaring female vocals. The vocals are from the soul, real and honest but somehow perfect at the same time with true emotion and depth. Most of the songs are without words (she sings in toungues), but on this album, she sings some words for the first time. I was worried that this wouldn't work, but it does and really expands their sound. In terms of instrumentation, the sheer myriad of instruments used on all their releases, including CD is mind boggling.

My favorite song is "Amrita (Churning the Sea of Milk)" which starts off slowly and then builds in a dramatic way. I also really like "Izgrejala" with its unique harmonies.

Azam Ali is amazing at vocal layering. Her harmonies on this album are perfect and her voice is as emotional as ever. I'm not sure how she conveys so much with her voice, but she can sing a single note and bring me to tears.

For fans of Vas' previous works, I highly recommend this CD. If you are a newcomer and you are wondering where to start, this is a great jumping off point for their amazing musicianship.

Average customer rating: Not bad but not delicious either! Love this music Heavenly Voices & Percussion At Its Best "Returning To The Emptiness" A must have!

In the Garden of Souls Vas Manufacturer: Narada ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | New Age | Styles | Music Meditation | New Age | Styles | Music Similar Items: Feast of Silence Sunyata Portals of Grace Offerings Elysium for the Brave ASIN: B00004SZDO Release Date: 2000-05-09

Tracks:

1. In The Garden Of Souls
2. Inamorata
3. Samaya
4. Prayer For Soheil
5. Ceremony Of Passage
6. Beyond Despair
7. The Inward Coil
8. Ephemere (Upon The Faded)
9. Lila
10. Unbecome
11. Sevdama

Amazon.com

On their third album, In the Garden of Souls, Vas doesn't so much extend their sound as go deeper within it. Singer Azam Ali continues singing in tongues; she's an intoxicating priestess who invites you into terrain that's both sacred and sensual. Her voice is framed by her own hammered dulcimer and the percussion of Greg Ellis. He draws on a trap set that replaces tom-toms, snare drums, and cymbals with djembes, dumbeks, udu drums, chimes, and bells to surround Ali with a seductive swirl of throbbing percussion, while Cameron Stone adds sinewy, raga-like cello lines. You can hear the influence of Abbess Hildegard von Bingen's medieval chants on pieces like "Inamorata" and "Beyond Despair," while "Inward Coil" builds from a plaintive folk tune into a classical crescendo. Azam Ali's voice is a stunning instrument, hovering between the ululations of Iran, where she was born, and the extended, note-bending melodiousness of India, where she was raised. In a language of the imagination, she's revealing a glimpse of heaven. --John Diliberto

Customer Reviews:

Not bad but not delicious either!.......2007-05-08

Vas' In the Garden of Souls is a wonderful addition to your melancholy music library with an extra kick. The Inward Coil (#7) is the center of the CD: the rest of the melodies mold around it.

The Indian sounds are soft and fluttery and at some points you get a little Asian flair. Azam Ali's voice rises above the music-her voice with Greg Ellis' instrumental skill is magnificent.

On the other side, the album is a bit forgettable because its river of mystical music flows one way and is so smooth.

Love this music.......2007-04-30

Give this a whirl and see if
it cures your ailments too.
I recommend them and highly.

Heavenly Voices & Percussion At Its Best.......2006-09-15

About the Band:
Vas is a world music / heavenly voices band based out of Los Angeles, California. Formed in 1995 when vocalist Azam Ali and percussionist Greg Ellis met at UCLA, Vas is frequently compared to Dead Can Dance. It is a fair comparison, as most bands in this genre tend to be labeled as "like DCD", but Vas has a much more spiritual (or meditative) quality that is centered on Ali's wonderful voice. The emotional music is very powerful and humbling with Ellis's drums and other traditional instruments providing the perfect backdrop for Ali.

About the Album:
In the Garden of Souls is Vas's third album. I bought this album based on the many positive reviews here on amazon, and I'm very glad I did. Like many bands in the heavenly voices genre, ambient music often is underexposed and I think underappreciated. The album is very consistent, with most of the tracks featuring Ali's soft vocals and all of the tracks are blessed by Ellis's and Ali's percussion. The diverse list of percussion and bell based instruments used in the album include: hammered dulcimer, tanpura, frame drums, rigg, udu, Fabla, dumbek, Nagara, cymbals, and various bells. I enjoy listening to the hour-long album in its entirety.

Recommended Tracks:
- Sevdama
- The Inward Coil
- In the Garden of Souls
- Lila

Typically I like darker romantic pieces, and have listed my favorite tracks above. My favorite track is "Sevdama" which has a folk-like quality to it due to the Ellis's backing vocals and Cameron Stone's cello. If you are looking for dynamic drumming in the style of Corvus Corax, "Ceremony of Passage" will certainly please you. The short "Beyond Despair" reminds me of medieval influenced bands such as Love Is Colder Than Death.

Similar Artists:
- Dead Can Dance
- Irfan
- Das Zeichen
- Love Is Colder Than Death
- Moon Far Away
- Impressions of Winter
- Qntal
- Corvus Corax

"Returning To The Emptiness" .......2006-03-15

Have you ever had a dream where you find yourself wandering alone in a shadowy, mist-filled garden. A sacred and ancient site where long abandoned structures adorned with indecipherable inscriptions protrude here and there from behind or between the thick, dark green centuries old vines. A dream so vivid that you can feel the cool wet mist caressing your face and smell the musty odor of the rotting undergrowth lying below the lush vegetation. Did a priestess appear in the distance with a voice as indescrible as the dream itself?

If you have this is probably the perfect music to re-create that dream experience and Azam Ali would be the priestess with the otherworldly voice. Such is the mood created by this sensual, multi-layered -11 track- CD by Vas. Titled, 'In The Garden Of Souls' your spirit we take flight into a mysterious Netherworld inspired by the talented Azam Ali and Greg Ellis and cross over to a timeless place of imagination and wonder. Truly a journey you will never tire of taking.

Get the candles lit, turn out the lights and enjoy the journey!

A must have!.......2004-09-18

I was first introduced to Vas in a dance class. My teacher played Vas music for warmups, which were a dance meditation of sorts. I kept fogetting to ask who the artist was, but came accross Vas on a compilation CD at Barnes and Nobel while listening to World CDs. I went and bought this CD that very day. Since then I have listened to it while giving massage, practicing slow dance moves, reading, even while sleeping. In the Garden of Souls is meditative in sound, while still being very powerful and moving. I'm am saving up for their other CDs. I can't wait to have more music from Vas!

Average customer rating: Sunyata Awww...... Absolutely incredible. Mesmerizing! Awesome!!!

Sunyata Vas Manufacturer: Narada ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | International | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music Meditation | New Age | Styles | Music Similar Items: In the Garden of Souls Feast of Silence Offerings Portals of Grace Niyaz ASIN: B000005P4H Release Date: 1997-04-08

Tracks:

1. Ningal
2. Saphyrro
3. Refuge
4. Sunyata
5. Apsara
6. Astrae
7. Iman
8. Remembrance
9. Arc Of Ascent
10. At Siva's Feet

Customer Reviews:

Sunyata.......2007-07-18

As previously stated Azam has a very pure voice and is an instrument here. I do play this quite often but actually prefer Portals of Grace for more variation in sounds. Sunyata has a 90% Indian theme. Personally I love her Iranian sound the best.

Awww.............2007-04-30

Listen and enjoy this music
it is mesmerizing.
I love to float along as
it plays. Recommended to one
and all.

Absolutely incredible........2005-08-10

This particular disc has a wide variety of influenences. One can detect middle eastern influences, what sounds like some Morrocan influences, and there is one song that could be mistaken for Bulgarian Chant. And through each song, the gorgeous blend of voice and minimalist instrumentation makes for an unmuddled and gorgeously clear package.

Mesmerizing!.......2003-12-31

The rich, hypnotic voice(s) of singer Azam Ali and the percussive virtuosity of Greg Ellis combine to create an eclectic, ecstatic, eastern-inspired symphony of sound. Gentle but fascinating, Ellis's ever-changing percussive textures underlie Ali's structured, repetitive vocal chants, which are sung and overdubbed in non-linguistic syllables. "Free from the constraints of any written language," suggests Ali in the liner notes, "the voice is capable of sounds no instrument can create." And so it is. Ali, of Iranian and Indian heritage, also plays hammered dulcimer, and Ellis's list of exotic hand drums and other world percussion instruments reads like a language all its own. The resulting album, which is this duo's debut release, sounds like the collaboration of 10 performers rather than just two! "Sunyata" has it all and is well worth listening to--reverent and meditative, but exuding considerable tension, mystery and passion as well. Vas has two other similar albums out as of this writing: "Offerings" and "In the Garden of Souls", as well as the solo albums "Portals of Grace" and "Kala Rupa: Explorations in Rhythm" by Ali and Ellis respectively. If you like the work of Vas, you may also enjoy that of the duo Rasa.

Awesome!!!.......2003-06-25

This is an awesome album. The sound is haunting and energetic at the same time. I can work to this, relax to this, and take a heck of a nap to it. If you forced me to give a comparison I would say the sound on this CD reminds me of what would happen if you could morph the good stuff from Loreena McKennitt, Sarah McLachlan and Enigma. Wow! I'm off to order my second Sunyata CD.

Average customer rating: Spectacular i would give this musical more stars if i could I would. . . A journey with Esmeralda Notre Dame de Paris

Notre Dame de Paris Richard Cocciante , and Luc Plamondon Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Israel | Middle East | International | Styles | Music Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | 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: Notre Dame de Paris Notre Dame de Paris (2000 Studio Cast) [Epic] Romeo & Juliette Le Petit Prince Seul ASIN: B00004U2EZ Release Date: 2000-06-27

Tracks:

1. Le Temps Des Cathedrales
2. Les Sans-Papiers
3. Bohemienne
4. Belle
5. Tu Vas Me Detruire
6. La Cour Des Miracles
7. Ave Maria Paien
8. Florence
9. Les Cloches
10. Etre Pretre Et Aimer Une Femme
11. Dechire
12. La Monture
13. Dieu Que Le Monde Est Injuste
14. Vivre
15. Lune
16. Danse Mon Esmeralda

Customer Reviews:

Spectacular.......2006-07-13

This music is simply breathtaking. Just especially beautiful. I have both this version, the two-CD complete version, and the English. The two-CD set (I think 52 tracks) is the best. This is second best. The music in this abridged CD is not presented in chronological order, however, and sometimes, due to this and the missing tracks, there is something lacking. However, it's just gorgeous music.

The acoustics are amazing. I'm not sure if this is really noticeable unless you hear it immediately before or after the English version. The cast is absolutely amazing. There is so much emotion in their voices.

I'm surprised there is so little about Richard Cocciante, the composer. This music is some of the best I've heard. I would have thought there was an abundance of music written by Richard Cocciante that I haven't heard. From what I can find out online, there isn't. This is just a masterpiece.

There are many reviewers who mention the translation issue. If you think of this as a popular musical, I can see that the translation may be an issue. However, think of it as an opera-- which it also is (not in the classical sense). We don't concern ourselves with the translation of La Traviata, La Boheme. Same with this. . . just enjoy the music.

If you can possibly find the 2 CD complete set (sometimes available for download elsewhere, find it before purchasing this. But, if you can't find it, get this. Also, as a side note. . . the DVD has the entire libretto included and offers English subtitles.

i would give this musical more stars if i could.......2006-05-07

i am so in love with this musical. it was the first french musical i'd ever seen. my french teacher showed it to the whole class after we had translated every single song into english. the hard work definitely paid off. the musical was amazing. i immediately fell in love and became obsessed. i couldn't stop listening to the CD. i love garou and bruno pelletier. they're both very talented, along with everyone else in the musical.

i really want to buy the two-disc CD, but i can't find it. does anyone know where i can buy it?

I would. . ........2006-01-26

. . . highly recommend this album. the songs are beautiful and the singers seem to carry over the emotions that the characters feel to the listener. AWESOME!

A journey with Esmeralda.......2006-01-19

When I first saw the perfomance of Notre Dame de Paris by original francophone troupe of singers for the first time, right away I fell in love with the music of Riccardo Cocciante and the gorgeous voices of the singers.

Being lucky to be able to understand the lyrics, I was pleasantly surprised by the awesome lyrics of Luc Plamondon, even if the lyrics are not necessary to understand the mood and the emotions that the songs transmit, knowing the words helps you to completely immerse into the play and feel the same emotions that the play characters, to live the story yourself.

With "Bohemienne" we see a clear picture of a young gypsy girl wandering in the mountains and valleys of Andalusia, playful and free, a little sad because she lives only for the present, every tomorrow is a new mystery, a new journey.

"Belle" depicts a stunning young woman, with sensual moves and penetrating eyes, dancing on the square while all the men are ready to do anything to be with her.

"Tu va me detruire" demonstrates the unconrolled desire of the priest towards Esmeralda, the man who dedicated all his life to sience and religion who now is ready to surpass all his beliefs, descend to hell only if she would be his. While he is discovering his dark side, Esmeralda falls in love with a beau captaine, Phoebus, who is betraying his fiancée with her.

Meanwhile his fiancée Fleur de Lys is reflecting on how to get her loved one back : in "La monture" she makes plan of vegeance to Esmeralda, she is calling her a witch, the hatred and jelousy are overtaking her while she says to Phoebus "I will come back to you only if Esmeralda will be executed ".

As the story ends the spectator/listener is taken over by
the desperation of innocent and proud Esmeralda before being executed, the depth and the eternity of Quasimodo's feelings.

I really love all the singers and ever since I have Notre Dame de Paris I don't miss an album by any of the singers from the musical. I have discovered for myself such great artists as Garou, Bruno Pelletier, Patrick Fiori.


It's a must for everyone!

Notre Dame de Paris.......2005-09-25

Excellent CD if you want to listen to opera in short. However, if you are really interested, it's better to buy a 2-disc edition or a DVD to enjoy this wonderful music in full.

Average customer rating: Gave it a few listens but.... For When You Can't Find Your Head Not good! Gorgeous! godlike

Offerings Vas Manufacturer: Narada ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | International | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music Meditation | New Age | Styles | Music Similar Items: Sunyata In the Garden of Souls Feast of Silence Portals of Grace Niyaz ASIN: B00000AGDO Release Date: 1998-09-22

Tracks:

1. Svarga
2. Roya
3. Varuna
4. The Promise
5. Ellora
6. Temple Of The Maiden
7. Leyli
8. Veiled
9. Wajad
10. A Garland Of Breath
11. Mist Weaving

Amazon.com

On Offerings, vocalist Azam Ali and percussionist Greg Ellis take one step beyond the repertoire of Indian-flavored, hymn-like songs created on their widely adored debut CD Sunyata. Again Ali radiantly sings soothing melodies of words in no language other than her own spontaneous emotion. A bit reminiscent of Madredeus's Teresa Salguiero, her tone is melancholic and soulful, but her chanting unrolls a Persian tapestry woven of her hammered dulcimer and Ellis's cadences on tabla, udu, frame drum, zils, and more. Guest artists Steve Stevens (nylon-string guitar), cellist Hans Christian, singer Omar Faruk Tekbilek, and violinist Nabil Azzam deepen the Middle Eastern hues. By the CD's end, listeners will understand why this inspired duo has named themselves the Farsi word for "vessel." --Karen Karleski

Customer Reviews:

Gave it a few listens but...........2005-02-01

Like fingernails on a blackboard - the instruments, the singer's voice, the melodies.

For When You Can't Find Your Head.......2004-12-21

It happens to the best of us. Reality impinges, takes a bite out of our equanimity, and makes off with our peace of mind. These are times when those that belive in an inner sanity struggle to find something that provides pure focus, music that is there for itself, with no distracting overtones.

Azam Ali has a rare talent - the ability to take the sounds and tones of her voice and, almost magically, make them into words and sentences completely free of meanings and hidden agendas. In this pure atmosphere, accompanied by the thoughtful percussion of her companion Greg Ellis, there is a place for reintegration as well as the appreciation of something beautiful.

Ali is Iranian, the melodies and structures of that land haunt Vas's music. It would, however, be unfair to classify this music as belonging to one region or culture. The are too adept to fall into that trap. The delicacy of the music arises in a careful weaving of eastern and western tradition. Guitar, cello and violin make the sound familiar and alien at the same time. I'm not a great percussion fan, but I find the edges added by Ellis's work add to the serenity and fascination of the music.

Not good!.......2004-02-29

This CD has a nice picture on the front cover but the music is totally lacking of devotion which is quite disappointing.Listen to Krishna Das "Door to Faith" and feel the difference!or any of his music!
This CD from VAS is rated very good and I feel this is very misleading.

Gorgeous!.......2003-12-31

Vocalist Azam Ali and percussionist Greg Ellis of Vas continue their emotive, improvisational explorations of voice and rhythm, taking up where their debut album "Sunyata" left off and adding new layers of expression. This time the duo broadens their venue to include guest musicians for a fuller and more diverse sound: cellist and sarangi player Hans Christian (of Rasa), Arabic violinist Nabil Azzam, guitarist Steve Stevens and flutist/percussionist/singer Omar Faruk Tekbilek. All are well chosen and fit in well with Vas's exotic, eastern style. The tempos of "Offerings" are somewhat more upbeat than those of "Sunyata", but all of the selections are still gentle rather than frenetic, offering grace and artistry in their restraint. Of particular note are the first track, "Svarga", which builds to a swirl of truly transcendental vocal multi-tracking, and "The Promise", a lovely, sweet song that features voice, cello and guitar and is more conventionally melodic (in a Western sense, that is) than most of Vas's repertoire. Hans Christian and his wife Kim Waters forms the duo Rasa, and their albums "Devotion", "Union" and "Shelter" have similarities to the work of Vas. The multitalented Omar Faruk Tekbilek also has many releases of his own.

godlike.......2003-03-05

This cd is their most complex I think. The first song, Svarga, moves from very sparse droning & a reticent Persian violin to what is by far the most mind-blowing polyphony I've ever heard, & I have a large polyphony collection. After that the songs are all so beautiful, each with its own thriving soul. Vas is not Dead Can Dance, though. They never will be. The endlessly unravelling vocal harmonies of Azam Ali are a unique marvel. Greg Ellis's adeptness on tabla & other drums is great. The truth is the musical composition is more western than anything else, with worldly instruments & timeless energy. Greg drums with a western rhythmic sensibility. A great western rhythmic sensibility in their modern western music that's so unique in its themes & variations that it feels exotic. From driving, but serene, hammered dulcimer to very sparing, dark, almost ambient music, this cd is most highly recommended.

Average customer rating: Lecuona Plays Lecuona Lecuona the Cuban pianist is Great! The Cuban Chopin Lecuona, the musical genious . . . . . LECUONA IS NO LIGHTWEIGHT

Ultimate Collection Manufacturer: RCA ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Lecuona | Lecuona, Ernesto | ( L ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Latin Music | Styles | Music Latin Pop | Latin Music | Styles | Music Modern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | 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: Always in My Heart-Domingo sings Songs of Ernesto Lecuona Juana Zayas:A Treasury of Cuban Piano Classics Lecuona Sinfónica / Morton Gould and His Orchestra Ernesto Lecuona Piano Music: Piano Solo Ernesto Lecuona: The Complete Piano Music, Volume 3 ASIN: B000003G71 Release Date: 1997-02-11

Tracks:

1. Malaguena
2. Andalucia
3. Ante el Escorial
4. San Francisco el grande
5. Siempre en mi corazon
6. Maria la O
7. Siboney
8. Noche azul
9. La comparsa
10. Danza negra
11. Danza lucumi
12. A la antigua
13. Canto del guajiro
14. Canto del guajiro
15. La habanera
16. Damisela encantadora
17. Crisantemo
18. Romantico
19. Rosa la china
20. Como arrullo de palmas
21. Palomitas blancas
22. Poetico
23. Estudiantina
24. Cordoba
25. Music Box
26. Mazurka en glisado
27. Polichinela
28. Gitanerias
29. Aragon
30. Valencia mora

Tracks:

1. La brisa y yo
2. Devuelveme el corazon
3. Preludio en la noche
4. Yo te quiero siempre
5. Pavo real
6. Vals de las sombras
7. Bell Flower
8. Zambra gitana
9. Por eso te quiero
10. Vals azul
11. Vals en si mayor
12. Muneca de cristal
13. Mi amor fue una flor
14. Vals en re bemol
15. Apasionado
16. Amorosa
17. Ahi viene el chino
18. Al fin te vi
19. Por que te vas?
20. Mientras yo comia maullaba un gato
21. Por que te vas?
22. Amorosa
23. Los minstrels
24. No hables mas
25. Dame tu amor
26. Vals en re bemol
27. La 32
28. Mis tristezas
29. En tres por cuatro
30. Munequita
31. Burlesca
32. La paloma
33. Music Box

Amazon.com

This collection includes Ernesto Lecuona's complete 1954 recordings plus a series of 78s made in 1927-28. Ten of the recordings were previously unreleased. This is a lot of lightweight Cuban piano music to deal with at once, but it's definitely worth doing. Lecuona's music, which is having a major revival, may not be important. But it's consistently charming and entertaining. The 78s, which sound surprisingly good, reveal even more of a virtuoso than do the later recordings, but throughout we hear playing that expresses the spirit of the music extremely well. And yes, the famous Malagueña is here, sounding very sexy. --Leslie Gerber

Customer Reviews:

Lecuona Plays Lecuona.......2007-05-12

Oh Boy! What can I tell you about this magnificent collection of musical jewels from our Maestro Lecuona. I bought the original Long Playing Record back in the 50's in my country.
I purchased it again shortly after my arrival to the US, and I was lucky enough to buy it on DVD from Amazon, once I found out they had it.

Joseph L. Alcover
Miami, FL

Lecuona the Cuban pianist is Great!.......2005-08-17

In my opinion this is one of the best CD's from Lacuona, Most of his piano compositions are recorded here (original ones), What, Ms. Leslie Gerber forgot to mention is that Mr.Lecuona was a band leader,"Lecuona and the Cuban Boys", remembers him? Or maybe she does not have sufficient information about him. The music from Lecuona still is very well alive today. I came across his recordings on my own, no one ever told me about this great pianist. I happened to hear the Malague?a by another great Cuban composer and band leader Perez Prado (The Real Mambo King) in one of his albums and Lecuona was the author. That got me interested in him. I'm pretty sure that Ms.Leslie Gerber does not mean any harm trying to put this composer down. It's just that maybe all she knows is Gerber baby food stuff!

The Cuban Chopin.......2004-06-18

What a great album and great value. There is music here that will make you smile, break your heart, inspire you, and Lecuona's skill is breathtaking. If you enjoy classical piano music (with a Cuban/Spanish influence), you'll love this. No, it doesn't display the virtuosity, complexity or seriousness of Lizst, Chopin or Beethoven, but it's fun, beautiful, dramatic yet accessible. You'll love it.

Lecuona, the musical genious . . . . ........2002-10-16

I feel compelled to identify myself first. I am Cuban born who arrived in the US in 1960 at the age of 16 years old. I am a US citizen since 1965 and a US Army Veteran of Viet Nam. I will die defending the right Ms. Leslie Garber has of expresing her opinions. But what I will not condone is her ignorance. To say that Lecuona writes "lightweight Cuban piano music" and that "Lecuona's music may not be important" is to show ignorance. A musician that composes GREAT music in several genres of the music world, a musician that in all genres has highly succesful pieces, and, a musician that after many years, (70-80 years) is still heard and admired can not be called other than MUSICAL GENIOUS and a CLASSICAL MUSICIAN. His music is so beautiful that it will live forever. From his Afro-Cuban compositions, to his romantic popular boleros, to his valses, to his Zarzuelas, Lecuona demonstrates once and again, time after time his immense musical talent. His Afro-Cuban "Cafetal", his romantic boleros "Noche Azul" and "Amapola", His vibrant and colorful "Comparsa" and "Andalucia", his classical Valses, just to mention a few things, makes Lecuona to stand together with the great musicians of the world. The fact that Hollywood made a film around "Estas en mi corazon" and that great singers, like Placido Domingo, want to sing Lecuona's music speaks immensely well of Lecuona/s greatness. The fact the popular instrumental orchestras like Faith, Conniff, Mantovani, Cugat have arranged and interpreted a lot of Lecuona's music also says a lot about Lecuona's versatility in his work. Lecuona is probably important to many millions of people and his music is certainly not lightweight. And if the only thing Ms. Garber can say about "Malaguena" is that "it sounds very sexy" is to demonstrate that she does not know a thing about music. It definitely does not give her the priviledge of commenting about Lecuona's music.

LECUONA IS NO LIGHTWEIGHT.......2002-02-27

Lecuona is one of the most important composers of Latin-America. He is by no means the "unimportant" and "lightweight" Leslie Gerber (whomever that may be) claims, having been hailed for performances of his earlier (and "less mature") works by the likes of Maurice Ravel.

In my opinion the highlight of the set is the devilish "La 32". It's also interesting to compare his interpretations of the same works at different times in his career, like the two recordings of "Por que te vas?" and "Amorosa", especially keeping in mind that Lecuona seldom notated and improvised quite frequently, leaving the transcription work to his students.

Average customer rating: Delighful Hvorostovsy The Power of Voice, The Music for the Soul a cup half full, but still splendid Here is proof that Russian vintage only gets better with age Excellent

Kalinka: Russian Folk Songs Dmitri Hvorostovsky , and Russian Traditional Manufacturer: Philips ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Hvorostovsky, Dmitri | ( H ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Folk Songs | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Similar Items: Moscow Nights I Met You, My Love Where Are You, My Brothers? Dmitri Hvorostovsky - Russian Songs of the War Years Dmitri Hvorostovsky - Passione di Napoli ASIN: B00000HY87 Release Date: 1999-01-12

Tracks:

1. Russian Folk Songs: Kalinka
2. Russian Folk Songs: Barinya
3. Russian Folk Songs: Ach Ti Slishesh Li (Ah! Do You Hear, My Dearest Fiend)
4. Russian Folk Songs: Na Gorushkye (On Little Mountain, On The Mountain)
5. Russian Folk Songs: Khorovodnaya (Round Dance)
6. Russian Folk Songs: Shto Zatumanilas (Why Have You Misted Over, Clear Sunset)
7. Russian Folk Songs: Ya Vstretil Vas (I Met You)
8. Russian Folk Songs: Ivushka (The Little Window)
9. Russian Folk Songs: Kak Menya Mladu (How Was I, A Tender Young Maiden?)
10. Russian Folk Songs: Kachelniye (Rhyming Song)
11. Russian Folk Songs: Uzh Ti Polye (Ah, You Field)
12. Russian Folk Songs: Shto Bye Belaya Berioza (As Never White Birch Tree)
13. Russian Folk Songs: Ne Slijshno Shuma Gorodskogo (The Noise Of The Town Cannot Be Heard)
14. Russian Folk Songs: Vtyomnon Leyse (In The Dark Forest)
15. Russian Folk Songs: Uzh Kak Pal Tuman (Already The Fog Has Descended)
16. Russian Folk Songs: Ach Vij Sini (Ah, Shady Spot)
17. Russian Folk Songs: Veniki (Birch - Broom)
18. Russian Folk Songs: Vyhozhu Adin Ya Na Dorogu (I Set Off Alone Down The Road)

Amazon.com

Dimitri Hvorostovsky, born and bred in Siberia, has Russian folk music in his soul. So do about 100 million other Russians, of course, but they don't have his magnificent voice. When his artistry is joined with that of the Saint Petersburg Chamber Chorus, the result is hard to beat, especially when the arrangements were made by such composers as Shostakovich and Rimsky-Korsakov. Don't expect happy songs, although some of the offerings on this disc, such as the title song "Kalinka," have their rollicking passages. In characteristic fashion, the lyrics dwell plaintively on laments for lost love or melancholy recollections of the Russian countryside. Unusually for a Russian chorus, the Saint Petersburg ensemble is not dominated by the lower-pitched male voices but by the women, blissfully free from stridency, who swell their cadences in the way so typical of Russian liturgical music. The disc is accompanied by the Russian text and a useful English translation, although both suffer from minor errors. --Ed Killham

Customer Reviews:

Delighful Hvorostovsy.......2007-03-31

I heard the CD Kalinka. I've never stopped admiring this wonderful Russian bsritone. I went to his concerto here in Mexico, several months ago. I was in Heaven

The songs are chosen with care and love, and it reminds me always of my so wonderful stay in Russia (3 years). This really is from "Russia with love". The thrilling voice of Hvorostovsky gives me the chills and makes me dream. Thanks for a wonderful and delightful record.

This Cd is not the "academic" version of the Red Army, pleasant as well. This is fresh, bucolic and belongs to the people that are in the enourmous fields of corn in Russia and Ukraine. It is naive, with the beauty of naivite.

Hvorostovky is versatile and in the songs que needs to be sweet, plassionate or melancholic he achieves it masterly!!!!!

Eugenia LizaldeBest of the Red Army Choir

The Power of Voice, The Music for the Soul .......2005-05-09

Listening to these eighteen Russian folk songs, artistically arranged and vocalized, one feels that the musical border between folksong and opera has somehow been melted away, and what are heard are the best aspects of both. There is something very special in Russian folk music. Dmitri Hvorostovsky and St Petersburg Chamber Choir have grasped the spirit of it with their heartbreaking vocal force. Whether it is the melancholy melodies; the somber harmonies; or the primordial elements, they pierce directly through your heart and get to your soul... Simply wonderful!

a cup half full, but still splendid.......2004-05-22

With his rich and powerful dark honey voice, Dmitri Hvorostovsky is one of the greatest operatic baritones alive, and as an interpreter of Russian music, no singer can top him; his exquisite renditions of folk melodies, as well as the rapturous songs of Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninoff on his other recordings are sublime.
Here he is backed not by an orchestra, but by St. Petersburg Chamber Choir, and together they present a superb collection of traditional melodies.

Unfortunately for those of us who are big Dmitri fans, he only sings on 10 of the 18 tracks, and though the chorus is excellent, his magnificent voice would have made these songs even better; the "chorus only" tracks are 4-5, 8-10, 14, and 16-17.
The popular title track, "Kalinka", has probably been included in practically every film with a Russian theme I have ever seen and is instantly recognizable, and some of the others are rare gems, but all of them will be enjoyed by anyone who appreciates Russian music.

My absolute favorite is the final "Vihaztu adin ya na darogu" ("I set off alone down the road"), which with its beautiful melody and soulful singing is glorious. Dmitri recorded this song for his first CD of folk songs in 1991, with the Ossipov Russian Folk Orchestra, with balalaikas instead of a chorus to back him; both versions are wonderful, but with this one having the edge, as I think he sings it on this recording with more emotion.
Total running time is 56'41.

Here is proof that Russian vintage only gets better with age.......1999-06-06

Dmitri Hvorostovsky has outdone himself, which means his admirers are in for a treat. Maturity only adds depth to his interpretations of Russian folk songs, now on a larger scale than on the earlier CD 'Dark Eyes'. His musicianship is such that he blends in perfectly with the superb St. Petersburg Chamber Choir whenever this is called for. Marvelous stuff here - highly recommended.

Excellent.......1999-05-14

Worth congratulating Philips that here (as in several more recent releases) "Russian Text" really means that, in cyrillic not transliteration. Timing 56'40.

Average customer rating: Fine CD ,Lame DVD Great playing but recording is a bit weak LOS ROMEROS WITH THE EDISON SYMPHONY IN NEW JERSEY The Rodrigo Collection Great multimedia

Los Romeros: The Rodrigo Collection Manufacturer: Philips ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Guitar | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Romero, Pepe | ( R ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Spain | Continental Europe | Europe | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music Flamenco | Latin Music | Styles | Music Similar Items: The Royal Family of the Spanish Guitar Rodrigo: Concierto de Aranjuez; Fantasía para un Gentilhombre Rodrigo: Complete Concertos for Guitar and Harp The Art of Pepe Romero: Guitar Favorites Antonio Vivaldi: Guitar Concertos, Los Romeros ASIN: B00076YNI2 Release Date: 2005-04-12

Tracks:

1. Fanfare: Allegro Marziale
2. Madrigal: Andante Nostalgico
3. Entrada: Allegro Vivace
4. Pastorcico, Tu Que Vienes, Pastorcico, Tu Que Vas: Allegro Vivace
5. Girardilla: Presto
6. Pastoral: Allegro
7. Fandango
8. Arietta: Andante Nostalgico
9. Zapateado: Allegro Vivace
10. Caccia A La Espanola: Allegro Vivace-Andante Nostalgico
11. I. Villano Y Ricercare: Adagietto - Andante Moderato
12. II. Espanoletta Y Fanfare De La Caballeria De Napoles: Adagio-Allegretto Molto Ritmico
13. III. Danza De Las Hachas: Allegro Con Brio
14. IV. Canario: Allegro Ma Non Troppo
15. I. Tiempo De Bolero - Los Romeros
16. II. Adagio - Los Romeros
17. III. Allegretto - Los Romeros

Customer Reviews:

Fine CD ,Lame DVD.......2007-01-28

I thought the sound quality on the cd was fine. But if you're buying this for the Concerto on the DVD you should know that half the time you won't be seeing the concerto. Yes, while the musicians play you will frequently be shown statues, fountains, gardens and other pretty images that have nothing to do with the music and take up way too much time on screen.That kind of thing might fine on a tourism video which you might or might not watch once, but watching the concerto performance would have been far more interesting.

Great playing but recording is a bit weak.......2006-08-18

The Rodrigo Collection is a compilation of Rodrigo guitar concerti recordings from 1975 to 1979. The guitar playing is robust, aggressive and macho, but not nearly as sensitive and deep as efforts by Pepe and Angel during the last decade. Twenty some years of practice and performing makes a big difference!

Although the recording quality is decent, it is not nearly as full bodied as modern digital recordings by the Romero brothers. The midrange is thin and slightly bright and stereo imaging flat. It's not a great digitalization and remix of an analog recording. Lastly, the "Shadows and Light DVD" transfer from analog tape to DVD is terrible. If I didn't know I had put a DVD in the player I'd swear it was an old low rez video tape. Despite these warts, it's a must have for any diehard Rodrigo or Romero fan.

LOS ROMEROS WITH THE EDISON SYMPHONY IN NEW JERSEY.......2005-12-29

THIS CD IS SUPERIOR AND ONCE AGAIN THE LOS ROMEROS DO A GREAT JOB.
COME SEE THEM PERFORM LIVE WITH FULL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA AT THE STATE THEATRE IN NEW BRUNSWICK, NEW JERSEY, FEBRUARY 19, 2006, 2:00 P.M.
FOR TICKET INFORMATION VISIT www.edisonsymphony.com
or www.statetheatrenj.org

The Rodrigo Collection.......2005-10-19

Here is a delightful combination CD and DVD with some of Rodrigo's most famous and lovely music. The DVD is especially touching and I got a new perspective on this unique composer and his music.

Great multimedia.......2005-09-13

The first CD is very good, the sound of the concerts is great, but the DVD is another thing, it's great to see Pepe Romero in the Aranjuez Concert and the documentary about the late great master Joaquín Rodrigo touch me very deeply.
My only regret it's that you can only hear the Aranjuez Concert if you play the DVD and not in a CD player (car for example)

Average customer rating: Mellow Magic Anhelo A large voice sings small A Cura for Heartache Jose Cura's voice is truly magnificent!

Anhelo: Argentinian Songs Manufacturer: Elektra / Wea ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Ginastera | Ginastera, Alberto | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Piazzolla, Astor | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Ramirez, Ariel | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Guitar | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Cura, José | ( C ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Modern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Ramirez, Ariel | Q to T | Featured Composers, A-Z | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Similar Items: Jose Cura - Puccini Arias / Domingo Boleros Verismo Artist Portrait Jose Cura Verdi Arias ASIN: B00000DGWU Release Date: 1998-11-03

Tracks:

1. Preludio a los Sonetos de Amor y Muerte
2. La rosa y el sauce
3. Se equivoco la paloma
4. El unico camino
5. Elegia para un gorrion
6. Campanilla, adonde vas?
7. Riqueza
8. Soneto 4
9. Anhelo
10. Caminito
11. Nocturno
12. Milonga
13. Cancion del arbol del olvido
14. Alfonsina y el mar
15. Cancion del carretero
16. Cancion de Perico
17. Adios Nonino
18. Desde el fondo de ti
19. Postal de guerra
20. Sonetos de Amor y Muerte

Amazon.com

So often, operatic crossover discs seem to be devised according to marketing surveys, with the star swooping into the recording studio between engagements with minimum thought or care. Jose Cura's first crossover disc, Anhelo, is quite the exception. The tenor not only sings but has orchestrated and conducted several numbers as well, which is only the most tangible evidence of the thought and feeling he's put into this. The emphasis is on ballads--which is only fitting for an album whose title means intense, suffocating desire--though there are also folk-like songs and instrumental cuts, one of which Cura composed himself in a neo-Puccinian style. Some of the songs have orchestrations, but the instrumentation is mostly spare: often acoustic guitar or piano and, in one cut, only solo voice. Cura may not have the most flexible instrument, yet he scales it down extremely well here. Clearly, this disc didn't just arise out of a career strategy but as a sincere desire to communicate. And it does. --David Patrick Stearns

Customer Reviews:

Mellow Magic.......2005-12-16

In this exquisite CD of Argentine music, you will not hear Jose Cura sing with the full power of his magnificent operatic voice, but rather with a gentle beauty that is captivating. He shows us his heart in these songs, and what he is capable of doing artistically as well as his commitment to excellence, beyond his career as an international opera superstar. The repertoire consists of music by 20th and 21st century composers: Cura himself (2 tracks), Carlos Guastavino (8), Carlos Lopez Buchardo (2), and Julian Aguirre, Alberto Muzzio, Jorge Cardozo, Alberto Ginastera, Ariel Ramirez, Astor Piazzolla, Hilda Herrera, and Maria Elena Walsh each contributing one selection apiece.

The arrangements (by Cura) and musicianship are superb, featuring the brilliant talents of Eduardo Delgado (piano) and Ernesto Bitetti (guitar). Cura also conducts, and also had a hand in the design of the booklet insert, which has terrific liner notes, recording info, and lyrics in Spanish, English and French. There are also lots of photographs, and one of Cura as a toddler at the piano that is priceless.

There are 4 instrumentals on the CD, and the transcription of Piazzolla's "Adios Nonino" for piano quintet is stupendous, and another big favorite is Ginastera's "Cancion del arbol del olvido." There is nostalgia, sweet simplicity, and a purity to this album that may not appeal to those who like their music always on full throttle, but it is rich with a depth of soul and emotion, and is a rare encounter in this age of sound overkill. Total playing time is 62'08.

Anhelo.......2001-11-20

I discovered Jose Cura through Sarah Brightman's "Time to Say Goodbye." What a find I made! This man has the most expressive voice. Full of emotion and grandure, but not to the point of being ridiculous.

"Anhelo" is the perfect introduction to this wonderful man's voice. It is traditional Argentine music. The first time I heard "La Rosa" I was literally crying by the time it was over. The production is not over the top. You can hear Jose, without fighting the orchestra. Even if you don't speak Spanish, you can understand what he's singing through the emotion he gives each song.

Where most operatic voices do not understand that not every song is an aria, Jose does. He, like Sarah Brightman, can sing the opera with the "pop." Pick up this CD, with the bath and wine ready!

A large voice sings small.......2001-06-01

Many opera singers cannot seem to make their voices fit small or popular-type songs. The great Placido Domingo's pop albums are all disappointing: overproduced and underfelt. Jose Cura, on the other hand, gives these small songs from his homeland a warm, heartfelt treatment. The spare, always apt accompaniment adds to the poetic quality of the whole. This CD is a treasure.

A Cura for Heartache.......1999-09-23

Musical wonderman José Cura conducts himself in this splendid collections of art songs from his native Argentina. Wrapping his big, rich, meltingly warm barti-tenor voice around each ballad of heartache and romantic longing, Cura beautifully conveys the emotion at the heart of the song; it's meaning comes clear even for us listeners who aren't up on our Spanish. Especially impressive are his top notes, which he deploys either forcefully or very soft and intimate, like a lover's whisper in one's ear. Superb support from Ernesto Bitetti and Eduardo Delgado on guitar and piano contribute to the aura of closeness surrounding this disc. Simply put, ANHELO is a beautiful album and one which deserves a place any serious music lover's collection. ¡Viva El Cura!

Jose Cura's voice is truly magnificent!.......1999-09-22

I bought this CD after I heard Jose on Sarah Brighman's "Time to Say Goodbye." His voice is always so powerful, yet sweet that moves the hearts of those who listen to his music. He has truly put his heart into this CD. His feelings about Argentina is clearly reflected in all the songs that he included on this CD. HE will be the greatest tenor!!! He has all the qualities that a truly great tenor should! Let's wait for Jose's career to shine like no one else's.

Average customer rating: Oh my gawd.... Bo Knows Opera ANOTHER WONDERFUL BARITONE Bo Skovhus at his best Light years beyond Hampson

Bo Skovhus Sings Opera Arias Erich Wolfgang Korngold , Ambroise Thomas , Charles Gounod , Jules Massenet , Giuseppe Verdi , Benjamin Britten , Richard Wagner , Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky , English National Opera Orchestra , James Conlon , and Bo Skovhus Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Britten | Britten, Sir Benjamin | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Gounod | Gounod, Charles | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Korngold, Erich Wolfgang | ( K ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Massenet | Massenet, Jules | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Tchaikovsky | Tchaikovsky, Peter Ilyich | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Thomas | Thomas, Ambroise | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Verdi | Verdi, Giuseppe | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Wagner | Wagner, Richard | ( W ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Korngold, Erich Wolfgang | Composers | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Romances | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Modern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Arias | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music English | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music French | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Russian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | 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 Similar Items: Bo Skovhus - Schwanengesang & Schubert's Last Songs Bo Skovhus - Schubert: Die schöne Müllerin The Very Best of Thomas Hampson HOMAGE: The Age of the Diva Lehar - Merry Widow / Kenny, Skovhus, Kirchschlager, Turay, Kunzel, San Francisco Opera ASIN: B00000AG7L Release Date: 1998-09-15

Tracks:

1. Die tote Stadt: 'Da Ihr befehlet, Konigin...Mein Schnen, mein Wahnen'
2. Hamlet: 'Spectre infernal!'
3. Hamlet: 'C'est en croyant revoir...O vin, dissipe la tristesse!'
4. Hamlet: 'J'ai pu frapper le miserable...Etre ou ne pas etre'
5. Hamlet: 'La fatigue alourdit mes pas...Comme une pale fleur'
6. Faust: 'Avant de quitter ces lieux'
7. Werther: 'Pourquoi me reveiller, o souffle du printemps?'
8. Don Carlos: 'C'est moi Carlos...Oui, Carlos! Oui, c'est mon jour supreme...Carlos, ecoute'
9. Billy Budd: Look! Through The Port... And Farewell To Ye, Old Rights O' Man!'
10. Tannhauser: 'Blick' ich umher in diesem edlen Kreise'
11. Tannhauser: 'Wie Todesahnung Dammrung deckt die Lande...O du, mein holder Abendstern'
12. Eugene Onegin: 'Vy mne pisali'
13. Eugene Onegin: 'Uzel ta samaja Tat'jana'
14. Pique Dame: 'Vy tak pecal'ny, dorogaja...Ja vas ljublju'

Customer Reviews:

Oh my gawd...........2004-06-24

What a wondrous singer...I absolutely agree with all the other reviews here but add:

1) he sounds as though he's singing in his First Language, whether it be French, English, German or Russian.

2) he lets his soul come out (simce Mme Callas this remains a rare event).

3) Sidebar: the San Francisco Merry Widow, whilst a delight and a wonder, is NOT fair to this man's voice.

A magnificent recital album. Every prominent opera singer out there should be jealous.

Bo Knows Opera.......2002-08-28

In the forward to this cd, John Bell Young, makes the argument that the darker, mellow baritone is an often underated part of the opera repetoire. I don't fully agree with him - there are fantastic, exciting lead roles for these men: Hamlet, Nabucco, Rigoletto, and The Barber of Seville - all glittering showcases of virtuoso. And even the supporting roles they often play, are thrilling - Scarpia can easily steal the show away from Tosca and her hero with his magnicent, albeit short, scenes; and Escamillo often wins not only the affection of Carmen, but that of an entire opera house... Still, all said and done, this is an interesting introduction to a man who is every bit as dashing, musical, and talented as any tenor to grace the stage.
Bo Skovhus showcases such extreme range in vocal talents and emotion. His tone is beautiful. His breath control and phrasing are astounding. Diction is clear and defined - especially the German arias. This is an extremely talented man.
The Korngold aria is mesmerizing in it's romantic beauty. But my favorite selections on this album are the pieces from "Hamlet"; this is french lyricism at its most marvelous, glorious, heart-sweeping grandeur. I can not imagine a better man to play this most famous anti-hero.
I cannot recommend this cd highly enough. While some Italian arias would have been a nice addition, I won't hold it against my recommendation. Skovhus's interpretation of the tenor's aria from "Werther" makes up for this.
Next time you are out purchasing yet another famous tenor's album, to hear the one hundreth version of "Celeste Aida", buy this cd instead. Give this baritone a chance, and soon you'll be humming songs a minor third lower.

ANOTHER WONDERFUL BARITONE.......2002-08-23

I first heard Bo Skovhus on a Laser Disc recording of the War Requem. I was very impressed. However until this opera recital I had not heard him again. This is truly an impressive recording. I place him up there with my other favorite baritones! He's still young so, hopefully, he has many more good years left in him!

Bo Skovhus at his best.......2002-05-17

Bo Skovhus' lovers undoubtedly awaited this comprehensive choice of arias, which almost concludes his (still young) operaic work. Well known alongside less known operas constitutes a perfect choice. From Verdi through Thomas, from Korngold to Britten and the Russian arias, mastering the variety of languages, and dealing with every single role in a very sensitive way. This unique choice and the qualities of his full, beautiful and warm voice makes one regret, that the entire opera was not recorded with him in the relevant roles, like Thomas's Hamlet for example, or Britten's Billy Budd. It leaves a taste of wanting to hear more of this young and talented Baritone, whose repertoire is much larger than could be presented in one - indeed excellent - CD.

Light years beyond Hampson.......2001-12-09

I just can't heap enough praise on Skovhus. I saw him for the first time at the Houston Grand Opera in a production of Billy Budd and was sold. This CD demonstrates very well what an immensely expressive and flexible voice Skovhus possesses. He has incredible core to his voice which allows him to attack bravado sections with zeal, but also has the musical expressivity to pull back and caress piano lines with ease and artistry while still maintaining his core sound. Hampson, who is notorious for becoming breathy and pop-like in pianissimo passages, can't touch Skovhus with a 10, 100, or 1000 foot pole.

Skovhus is undoubtedly one of the most talented lyric baritones of our time. He ranks right up there in terms of vocal talent with Brynn Terfel, and far beyond Terfel in terms of total artistry. In fact, I wouldn't be going to far to claim that Skovhus is one of the best baritones EVER (my apologies to James Maddalena). Trust me when I say that you would do yourself a disservice to NOT buy this CD.

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