Gilbert & Sullivan: Yeoman / Gondoliers (CPTE) Ruddigore (HLTS) D'Oyle Carte 3CD

Editorial Reviews
Album Description
Yeoman of the Guard
(complete without dialogue)

The Gondoliers
(complete without dialogue)

Ruddigore
(highlights, without dialogue)

Over 228 Minutes featuring D'Oyle Carte stars!

D'Oyle carte Opera Company
Directed by Isidore Godfrey

Tracks:

GET OUT OF MY YARD
HURRY UP
THE CURSE OF CASTLE DRAGON
RADIATOR
STRAIGHT THROUGH THE TELEPHONE POLE
MARINE LAYER
TWELVE TWELVE
RUSTY OLD BOAT
THE ECHO SONG
FULL TANK
MY TEETH ARE A DRUMSET
HAYDN SYMPHONY NO. 88 FINALE
THREE ES FOR EDWARD
YOU KIDS

Album Description

"Get Out Of My Yard" is the first all-instrumental CD by guitarist Paul Gilbert, regarded internationally as one of the greatest players in the industry. Gilbert's sales draw from nearly 20 albums and 20 years as a recording artist and touring musician. There has been a resurgent interest in musician oriented records, the Shrapnel back catalog and Racer X/Paul Gilbert. The release of this record is perfectly timed with a legion of young players who are just now discovering the origins of high performance shred guitar of which Paul Gilbert is one of the true innovators.

Customer Reviews:

Good to see an Instrumental CD from Mr. Gilbert.......2007-06-27

This CD doesn't seem to be as slickly produced as I would have expected, but the tracks are really good. Some may think instrumental guitar records can lean a little bit into self indulgence, but heck when you are as good as the "G3" guys...

One of Paul's Best!.......2007-06-12

Ok... first of all the only reason this disc didn't get 5 stars is that I simply am not into instrumental albums. With that said, this is one of the best instrumental albums I have listened too! Burning Organ is probably my favorite Paul Gilbert album, but this is a close second. I rankthis up there with Steve Vai's "Passion and Warfare" in the instrumental cd category.

Awesome!.......2007-05-15

I got this cd the other day and it has now become my favorite. Paul doesn't skimp on this and you can tell he really put a lot of hard work into it. His skill is spot on and the feeling he has when he plays is amazing. If you are into Yngwie, Steve Vai, or any other shred/guitar type music you should check this out.

Excellant Album.......2007-05-13

I saw Paul Gilbert in Myrtle Beach at the House of Blues on March 31 with the G3 Tour. I came home the night after the show and had to buy this album. I had heard his Racer X and Mr. Big stuff but never none of his solo stuff. I knew with him touring with Joe Satriani he had to be a great guitarist. The intro for Get out of my yard is wicked. This a must album for those that love hard rock and not that bubble gum rock.

G3 Fan.......2007-04-22

I'll admit, I went to the G3 sho to hear John Petrucci and Joe Satriani. I haven't heard Paul since his Mr. Big Days, I didn't know what to expect, I just didn't want to be disapointed. Well, he didn't disapoint! He was great and his music is well structured. I liked it so much I purchased his latest CD "Get out of my Yard". This by far is one of the best CDs I've purchased to date. And I've purchased hundreds if them.
If you want to hear some great guitar playing and some great music buy this CD. This is one muscian that shouldn't be over looked, He has great chops, and a great sense of humor. You'll enjoy it.

Average customer rating:

Intelligent and musical fun.-
The Genius of Anna Russell
If you enjoy laughing..
Anna Russell strikes again!
Anna Russell is a SCREAM!

The Anna Russell Album

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

Encore?
Anna Russell Again?
Anna Russell Takes On... Nabucco & The Magic Flute
Anna Russell - The (First) Farewell Concert
Anna Russell - Crown Princess of Musical Parody: Her Television Appearances 1964, 1976, 1977

ASIN: B0000027JD
Release Date: 1991-07-26

Tracks:

Introduction To The Concert (By the Women's Club President)
How to Write Your Own Gilbert And Sullivan Opera
Coloratura Aria 'Canto Dolciamente Pipo'
British - Pure But Dull: 'I Love The Spring'
Russian Folk Song: 'Da, Nyet, Da, Nyet'
For Loud Singers With No Brains: 'Ah, Lover!'
For Singers With Tremendous Artistry But No Voice: 'Schlumph; Je N'ai Pas La Plume De Ma Tante'
For The Dramatic Soprano: 'Schreechenrauf'
The Ring Of The Nibellungs (An Analysis)

Amazon.com

This set of Anna Russell's inspired satirical monologues should be labeled with a warning notice. Why? Because after listening to her whirlwind explication of Wagner's Ring Cycle, even the most confirmed Wagnerite will be unable to listen to the Ring for weeks to come. Just listening to Russell declare in an incredulous voice: "I'm not making this up, y'know" is enough to induce you to shed bucketloads of laughter-induced tears. Gilbert and Sullivan fans will find their heroes savaged in her concoction of a typical G&S product, complete with a soprano lead who "loves below her station." Other targets include "the nymphs and shepherds" style of quavery English singing, complete with "hey-nonny-nonny's," coloratura mad scenes, and much else, including Russian folk songs, like her "Da, nyet, da, nyet." This disc is packed with laughs, chuckles, smiles, and everything. --Dan Davis

Customer Reviews:

Intelligent and musical fun.-.......2007-01-13

Due to the recent passing away of the legenday Anna Russell I bought this record and certainly did not regret it.- Inspite of having been originally recorded in 1952 and 1953 the sound is very good.- Ms. Russell combines a great sense of humour with profound musical knowledge, a wonderful timing of her jokes, and the talent of a gifted and very musical singer.- She captures the essence of the German lied, the French mélodie, the efforts of a dramatic soprano to make herself heard over the huge Wagnerian orchestra, culminating in her famous, already classic, 22 minutes long analysis of Wagner's Ring of the Nibelungs.- I listened to this recording three times in a row and had great fun.- Only Victor Borge can be compared to her with respect to this rare combination of deep musicianship with a real gift for comedy.- If you don't know yet these numbers, don't hesitate - buy the record, you will not be sorry.-

The Genius of Anna Russell.......2006-03-15

If you love music, but are happy to see the funny side of even the great composers, then this album is for you. Anna Russell is a singer of note but a comedian of greatness. She finds the pivotal styles of composers and caricatures them to great effect. The explanations she gives of the basics of Gilbert and Sullivan comic operas and the way she dissects Wagners Ring Cycle bring tears to the eyes with laughter. I recommend this album to all music lovers with a twinkle in their eyes. Truly a great comic experience.

If you enjoy laughing.........2006-02-23

I love opera, but I also enjoy spoofs of opera. Anna Russell was a classic "spoofer" of operatic stories and conventions. Nobody does it better. My favorite on this album is her take-off on Wagner's "Ring."

This CD can probably also be enjoyed by those who have only a nodding acquaintance with opera, but may not be enjoyed by those who take opera with 100% seriousness.

Anna Russell strikes again!.......2005-10-14

I have heard all of these Anna Russell selections at one time or another, but having them all together in one place, and on a CD, is a real plus. She is absolutely riotously funny. I teach a course in "Introduction to opera" and use her segments on Gilbert and Sullivan and on the Ring Cycle in class, just to lighten things up a bit for the students.

Anna Russell is a SCREAM!.......2005-08-05

I've had the vinyl of this album for over 20 years; the CD purchase was to update my system. For anyone who loves classical vocal music, and in particular the Wagner Ring Cycle and Gilbert and Sullivan, this album is a MUST. You will split your sides laughing; Ms. Russell is so very accurate in her comedy. Also, truth to tell, her Ring synopsis gave me, a newcomer to Wagner (years ago) a solid understanding of the musical plot and story line.

Average customer rating:

Wish I could give it 10 stars!!!!
Better Than The First CD
GREAT!
A great combination
This band delivers!!!

Hearts of the Innocent
Kutless
Manufacturer: Bec Recordings / Emd
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

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Christian Contemporary Music | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

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Similar Items:

Strong Tower
Sea of Faces
Comatose
The Face of Love
Kutless

ASIN: B000EGDAG6
Release Date: 2006-03-21

Tracks:

Hearts Of The Innocent
Shut Me Out
Beyond The Surface
Smile
Promise Of A Lifetime
Winds Of Change
Somewhere In The Sky
Mistakes
Push Me Away
Changing World
Million Dollar Man
Legacy

Customer Reviews:

Wish I could give it 10 stars!!!!.......2007-05-01

This cd is amazing it is by far the best kutless album yet. Its alot harder (not heavier theres a big difference) and it also has 5 slow but still awesome songs. Here is a runthrough of all 12 songs

1.Hearts of the innocent-title track,pretty hard,talks abouit how adults are hurting there children by there actions,not one of my favorites but really good nonetheless. 8/10

2.Shut me out-One of the harder songs on the album. Talks about sharing your faith with others even though they may "shut you out" One of my faves. 10/10

3.Beyond the surface-More heavy,really good,talks about finding an alternate solution to suicide. 10/10

4.Smile-slow song,but in my opinion kutlesses best song since sea of faces. my favorite song on the album. talks about showing hope to others. 20/10

5.Promise of a lifetime-another slow one , really good, talks about how eternal life is the promise of a lifetime. 9/10

6.Winds of change-pretty hard,awesome song,talks about how faith in god brings about "winds of change" in us. 10/10

7.Somewhere in the sky. hard song that talks about freedom in christ. my second favorite on the cd. 15/10

8.mistakes- This song is another slow one. its ok,my least favorite. 7/10

9.Push me away-good beat,talks about not bieng ashamed to need a friend 9/10

10.Changing world-awesome slow song about how God changes your world. 10/10

11.Million Dollar man-heaviest song on the album, really good, makes you think alot,talks about a man who threw away God for money and riches, but now he wants what he had because"the grass isnt greener on this lonely side" 12/10

12.Legacy-Talks about changing you your legacy in Christ. pretty hard song. 9/10

All I can say is that if you like christain rock and kutless then get this now dont wait another minute!!!

Better Than The First CD.......2007-03-25

I Like These Songs the First song i like that is fast beat for the first time is Somewhere in the Sky is only 3 seconds of Shouting in the Live From Portland is about 7 seconds . I like the album better. Second song Beyond The Survice . My Final Third Song Hearts of the INNOCENT. This is better than Hawk Nelson,K-j57 and Building 429. I like KUTLESS,NEWSBOYS,DAVID CROWDER BAND,TREE63,CHRIS TOMLIN,THIRD DAY and MICHEAL W.SMITH. Do Choose these artists what I like Buy this album and Strong Tower and Sea of Faces and Kutless and Live From Portland.

GREAT!.......2007-03-09

I love Kutless! They are my favorite band ever! I've been to two of their concerts, and they're great guys. Both as musicians and people. I think this is my favorite of their CDs. Kutless is one of those bands that young teenagers and people in their 30s can listen to and enjoy together.

I've always felt strongly about what Hearts of the Innocent stands for. And a lot of their music, in all of their CDs are about stuff that I've thought about or I've experienced. I love that they care, and I love their music. I wear my Kutless T-shirt proudly and suggest them to anyone who's looking for great rock music.

A great combination.......2007-02-27

Kutless has done a great job of giving something for everybody. If you like the first CD there are several songs that you will like. If you like the softer feel of Sea of Faces there are a good group for you to fall in love with. Most of all though this is a great compromise. Those who don't like this CD just don't have an appreciation for music. If your tastes are confined to a certain genre you would only enjoy about 1/3 of the CD. I don't know why people complain about their lyrics, especially that the lyrics are too ambiguous. All good lyricists write songs that allow individuals to interpret and apply them to their own lives. all in all, If you like any of Kutless' stuff go buy it.

This band delivers!!!.......2007-01-25

Well, I read the other reviews, I've listened to the album, and I've seen them live. I give Kutless high marks for the quality of their sound, the diversity of their music, and a dynamic stage presence.

The Hearts of the Innocent album is one of those few albums where 100% of the songs are good and at least half the songs are great. The title track pretty much sets the tone. After that there's a nice mix of hard hitting songs mixed with somewhat of a softer side before things really take off with Million Dollar Man.

If you get a chance, see these guys in concert. You'll come away with an appreciation for the talent that Kutless possesses at every instrument. Front man Jon Micah Sumrall's vocal range and energy makes a live show a powerful experience. He sounds the same in person as he does on the CD. No fancy studio enhancement tricks here. He's the real deal. It's also a blast to watch drummer Jeffrey Gilbert shred drumsticks.

Everyone has different tastes in music. That I understand. I'm 46 and like the sound as much as the teens in our Youth Group. I'd compare them to Skillet and I'm pretty sure the upcoming Brian Neal album will have a similar, hard hitting sound. If you like a hard, edgy sound I'd suggest you give Kutless a try.

Average customer rating:

A Premier Bach Series Recording
A nice way to complete your collection of Bach's concertos...
"Best Bach - Box Set"
Pinnock is good performer
Unbeatable Value

Bach: Concertos

Manufacturer: Archiv Produktion
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Vivaldi Concertos
Johann Sebastian Bach: 6 Brandenburg Concertos / 4 Orchestral Suites - The English Concert / Trevor Pinnock
Complete Mozart Symphonies / Pinnock, English Concert
Corelli: 12 Concerti grossi, op. 6
Dvorák: The Symphonies

ASIN: B00004SAAY
Release Date: 2001-03-13

Tracks:

Concerto for Harpsichord and Strings in D minor, BVW 1052: 1. Allegro
Concerto for Harpsichord and Strings in D minor, BVW 1052: 2. Adagio
Concerto for Harpsichord and Strings in D minor, BVW 1052: 3. Allegro
Concerto for Harpsichord and Strings in E major, BVW 1053: 1. (without tempo indication)
Concerto for Harpsichord and Strings in E major, BVW 1053: 2. Siciliano
Concerto for Harpsichord and Strings in E major, BVW 1053: 3. Allegro
Concerto for Harpsichord and Strings in D major, BVW 1054: 1. (without tempo indication)
Concerto for Harpsichord and Strings in D major, BVW 1054: 2. Adagio e piano sempre
Concerto for Harpsichord and Strings in D major, BVW 1054: 3. Allegro

Tracks:

Concerto for Harpsichord and Strings in A major, BWV.1055: 1. Allegro
Concerto for Harpsichord and Strings in A major, BWV.1055: 2. Larghetto
Concerto for Harpsichord and Strings in A major, BWV.1055: 3. Allegro ma non tanto
Concerto for Harpsichord and Strings in F minor, BWV.1056: 1. (Without Tempo Indication)
Concerto for Harpsichord and Strings in F minor, BWV.1056: 2. Largo
Concerto for Harpsichord and Strings in F minor, BWV.1056: 3. Presto
Concerto for Harpsichord, 2 Recorders and Strings in F major, BWV1057: 1. (Without Tempo Indication)
Concerto for Harpsichord, 2 Recorders and Strings in F major, BWV1057: 2. Andante
Concerto for Harpsichord, 2 Recorders and Strings in F major, BWV1057: 3. Allegro assai
Concerto for Harpsichord and Strings in G minor, BWV1058: 1. (Without Tempo Indication)
Concerto for Harpsichord and Strings in G minor, BWV1058: 2. Andante
Concerto for Harpsichord and Strings in G minor, BWV1058: 3. Allegro assai
Concerto for 2 Harpsichords and Strings in C minor, BWV1060: 1. Allegro
Concerto for 2 Harpsichords and Strings in C minor, BWV1060: 2. Adagio
Concerto for 2 Harpsichords and Strings in C minor, BWV1060: 3. Allegro

Tracks:

Concerto for 2 Harpsichords and Strings in C major, BWV1061: 1. (Without Tempo Indication) - Nicholas Kraemer
Concerto for 2 Harpsichords and Strings in C major, BWV1061: 2. Adagio ovvero Largo - Nicholas Kraemer
Concerto for 2 Harpsichords and Strings in C major, BWV1061: 3. Fuga - Nicholas Kraemer
Concerto for 2 Harpsichords and Strings in C minor, BWV1062: 1. (Without Tempo Indication) - Nicholas Kraemer
Concerto for 2 Harpsichords and Strings in C minor, BWV1062: 2. Andante - Nicholas Kraemer
Concerto for 2 Harpsichords and Strings in C minor, BWV1062: 3. Allegro assai - Nicholas Kraemer
Concerto for 3 Harpsichords and Strings in D minor, BWV.1063: 1. (Without Tempo Indication) - Nicholas Kraemer
Concerto for 3 Harpsichords and Strings in D minor, BWV.1063: 2. Alla Siciliana - Nicholas Kraemer
Concerto for 3 Harpsichords and Strings in D minor, BWV.1063: 3. Allegro - Nicholas Kraemer
Concerto for 3 Harpsichords and Strings in C major, BWV1064: 1. Allegro - Nicholas Kraemer
Concerto for 3 Harpsichords and Strings in C major, BWV1064: 2. Adagio - Nicholas Kraemer
Concerto for 3 Harpsichords and Strings in C major, BWV1064: 3. Allegro - Nicholas Kraemer
Concerto for 4 Harpsichords and Strings in A minor, BWV.1065: 1. (Without Tempo Indication) - Nicholas Kraemer
Concerto for 4 Harpsichords and Strings in A minor, BWV.1065: 2. Largo - Nicholas Kraemer
Concerto for 4 Harpsichords and Strings in A minor, BWV.1065: 3. Allegro - Nicholas Kraemer

Tracks:

Concerto for Flute, Violin, Harpsichord, Strings, and Basso Continuo in A minor, BWV1044 'Triple Concerto': 1. Allegro
Concerto for Flute, Violin, Harpsichord, Strings, and Basso Continuo in A minor, BWV1044 'Triple Concerto': 2. Adagio, ma non tanto, e dolce
Concerto for Flute, Violin, Harpsichord, Strings, and Basso Continuo in A minor, BWV1044 'Triple Concerto': 3. Allabreve
Concerto for Oboe, Violin, Strings, and Basso Continuo in C minor: 1. Allegro
Concerto for Oboe, Violin, Strings, and Basso Continuo in C minor: 2. Adagio
Concerto for Oboe, Violin, Strings, and Basso Continuo in C minor: 3. Allegro
Concerto for Oboe d'amore, Strings and Basso Continuo in A major: 1. (Without Tempo Indication)
Concerto for Oboe d'amore, Strings and Basso Continuo in A major: 2. Larghetto
Concerto for Oboe d'amore, Strings and Basso Continuo in A major: 3. Allegro ma non tanto

Tracks:

Concerto for Violin, Strings and Continuo in A minor, BWV.1041: 1. (Allegro moderato) - Simon Standage
Concerto for Violin, Strings and Continuo in A minor, BWV.1041: 2. Andante - Simon Standage
Concerto for Violin, Strings and Continuo in A minor, BWV.1041: 3. Allegro assai - Simon Standage
Concerto for Violin, Strings and Continuo in E major, BWV.1042: 1. Allegro - Simon Standage
Concerto for Violin, Strings and Continuo in E major, BWV.1042: 2. Adagio - Simon Standage
Concerto for Violin, Strings and Continuo in E major, BWV.1042: 3. Allegro assai - Simon Standage
Concerto for 2 Violins in D minor, BWV.1043: 1. Vivace - Simon Standage
Concerto for 2 Violins in D minor, BWV.1043: 2. Largo ma non tanto - Simon Standage
Concerto for 2 Violins in D minor, BWV.1043: 3. Allegro - Simon Standage

Customer Reviews:

A Premier Bach Series Recording.......2007-03-26

I purchased these recordings nearly 20 years ago, when Deutsche Gramophone was still selling them as five individual discs, and at over $20 per disc. With the re-release of the set of all five discs in a single, price-reduced "Collectors Edition" box set, the price has fallen by more than half, making this one of the outstanding values for high-quality Bach recordings on today's market.

But what about the performances? Here's the best way I can sum it up. Having listened to these disks for some two decades, in the car, on the main home stereo system, on portable equipment, on the boom box, and etc., etc., it is, I imagine, inevitable that one ends up memorizing nearly every note. And with that familiarity comes the ability to detect flaws in the performance, missteps, missed beats, the occasional off-tone instrument. Here's the rub: it is difficult to locate any significant flaw in the performances. These performances are about as perfect as one can get, but having said that, there is more. The sound reproduction of this recording remains near or at the top of any Bach recordings with which I've become familiar, and remains in my own thinking the de facto standard by which other performances should be measured.

Sound too good to be true? Pick up a set and see for yourself. And then relish the thought that you paid $40 for a set worth far more.

A nice way to complete your collection of Bach's concertos..........2007-02-21

...and cheap to boot. This, paired with the Brandenburg Concertos/Overtures compilation from Arkiv (also featuring Pinnock and the English Concert), gives any new Bach fan a fairly complete account of Bach's instrumental orchestral output. This particular package includes all of Bach's keyboard concertos (played exceptionally well by Pinnock), all of his violin concertos, and also his Triple Concerto (Harpsicord, Flute and Violin), several works for Oboe and Oboe D'Amour, and several double concertos (2 violins, and oboe and violin). Highlights are the D Minor Harpsicord concerto BWV 1052, the C Major concerto for 2 Harpsicords BWV 1061, the Oboe D'Amour concerto BWV 1055, the double concerto BWV 1060, and the violin concertos.
This set sounds fantastic and is a great value to boot. Strongly recommended for those who loved Bach's Bradenburg concertos and Overtures and are looking for something new to sink their teeth into.

"Best Bach - Box Set".......2005-11-06

This is undoubtedly the best Back box set I have heard. These Concerto's for Harsichord, Violin, Flute and Oboe are among the finest in classical music. Although the Harpsichord volume level could have been a bit higher overall the recordings are very good. I am very pleased with this CD set with so much music at a very good price. This is truly a collectors gem.

Pinnock is good performer.......2005-09-30

Pinnock is good performer...I drop one start because BWV 1052-58
Might sound better when it's played piano.

Unbeatable Value.......2004-12-15

This set offers unbeatable value. The performances are uniformly excellent. Pinnock's Bach is brisk and sprightly when it should be, but also tender and relaxed when it must be. He is not afraid to slow down and savour the music, unlike many period-performance specialists. He is one of the world's great harpsichordists and his partners in the multiple concerti are also excellent. Simon Standage yields nothing to better-known soloists in the violin concerti.

The sound is clear, deep, and only a little bit on the bright side.

While you're at it, buy the Pinnock/English Concert complete Mozart symphonies. Sure, Mozart's first fifteen or so aren't anything special, but the set is superb and the price unbelievable.

Average customer rating:

Awesome!
Great music, great lyrics
Awesome CD
Great Songs Poor Singing and Style.
Praise that rocks!

Strong Tower
Kutless
Manufacturer: Bec Recordings / Emd
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

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Similar Items:

Hearts of the Innocent
Sea of Faces
Kutless
Lifesong
Restored

ASIN: B0007M23GU
Release Date: 2005-03-01

Tracks:

We Fall Down
Finding Who We Are
Take Me In
Ready For You
Draw Me Close
All Who Are Thirsty
Better Is One Day
All The Words (Sea Of Faces Album Version)
Strong Tower
Jesus Lord Of Heaven
I Lift My Eyes
Word Of God Speak
Arms Of Love

Customer Reviews:

Awesome!.......2007-06-01

This is an awesome CD and brings you into worship. They are an anointed group.

Great music, great lyrics.......2007-03-31

This album is great not only musically, but the lyrics are powerful, too. Good, solid, uplifting Christian music.

Awesome CD.......2007-03-09

There are many people who don't like this CD because there is only two songs that Kutless actually wrote. That's true, but I have to say that Strong Tower is my favorite worship CD. Kutless adds a bit of edge to it. I love their rendition of each of the songs on this CD. Kutless has a way of making you feel the music, rather than just hear it. I prefer to feel than hear.

Strong Tower is also one of my favorite songs. They've done a wonderful job with that song. Once again they have taken something that I feel very often and made it into song. They are just a phenomenal band, and if you haven't already, I'd suggest checking them out.

Great Songs Poor Singing and Style........2007-02-24

I listened the Cd the sound is weak and milky. Jon Mich Smith needs singing education he is tone deaf. He sings some these songs he messed up he needs to listen to The Rock King Elvis . He needs to decrease the bass and electrical guitar and drums . He needs to improve his voice for a smooth Elvis Voice needs to have more better sounding instraments . Worship is not about rock it's about worship the lord beafuly he need's to improve . Don't buy the Hearts of the Innocent. He needs to dress nicer than that. He follows my opinion he will be on a higher list.

Praise that rocks!.......2007-01-10

Every song on this CD is awesome! I have it on my IPOD & rock to it @ the gym...& to think it's praise! I get pumped up & blessed @ the same time w/ this amazing album! My hubby & I think Kutless has really out done themselves w/ thier last 2 albums! Kutless is another band that gets better w/ every album!

Average customer rating:

I was amazed with this album
Excellent gota have it kinda cd
For anyone else this would be good but...
Hit or miss
a good kind of pain.

A Different Kind of Pain
Cold
Manufacturer: Lava
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

Punk Revival | Hardcore & Punk | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

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Similar Items:

Year of the Spider
13 Ways To Bleed Onstage
Chapter V
Someone in Control
Cold

ASIN: B000A3DFZO
Release Date: 2005-08-30

Tracks:

Back Home
Feel It In Your Heart
Anatomy Of A Tidal Wave
A Different Kind of Pain
Another Pill
Happens All The Time
When Heaven's Not Far Away
God's Song
When Angel's Fly Away
Tell Me Why
Ocean

Album Description

"For Cold, music is..." Scooter pauses. "It's real. It's medicine. It's therapy. And I think anybody, no matter what age you are, can be affected by it." A Different Kind of Pain was recorded at Bearsville Studios in upsate New York and produced by Michael "Elvis" Baskette. The slow, driving chorus on songs like "Ocean," and "A Different Kind of Pain" belies the strife within the lyrics; and Baskette has handled it deftly.

Customer Reviews:

I was amazed with this album.......2007-07-20

This album has a unique sound unlike any other alt. rock group out there. The only thing negitive about the album is that it can be a little depressing, but that is understandable with what the lead singer has been through. This was the first and only album of Cold that I have bought. I would recommend this album to anyone.

Excellent gota have it kinda cd.......2007-07-04

Every now and then you buy new music from a band you havent heard of and you appreciate the musicians abilitys, these guys are highly talented,
love the cd and i beleive most true rockers will agree. thanks guys for the great work, keep it up.

For anyone else this would be good but..........2007-06-21

for Cold it is not. One thing about Cold is that they've always been very atmospheric and dark. I remember way back years ago, when their self-titled came out and was blown away by just how f@#%$#% dark it was. And, while a lot of that comes from Scooter's vocals, a good portion of that was the distorted and crunchy guitars which for the most part on this album are completely gone. Because of this, in my humble opinion this is no longer a metal album but it is a rock album. The songwriting is good and Scooter's vocals are good (although not as extreme) but simply, the heaviness is gone. And without the heaviness, Cold just seem like a decent rock band without an edge.

Hit or miss.......2007-06-12

While this album has some splendid material, the majority of it failed to hit the mark. This album is basically a collection of songs that are right on the border of being good, but not quite there. There are a few exceptions, such as "A Different Kind of Pain", "When Angels Fly Away", and "Feel it in Your Heart". None of the afformentioned songs are vintage Cold. I don't believe the majority of the songs on this album can hold a candle to any of the songs on "Year of the Spider".

All in all, not a horrible album, but I wouldn't consider it to be good.

a good kind of pain........2007-04-12

I am one that thinks Cold has gotten better with age. I think they have matured a lot since their self-titled, nu-metal tinged debut. They have progressed into a straightforward hard rock band with above average vocals and songwriting capabilities. I give this one 4.5 stars, and I think it is their most solid effort.

The Ultimate Gilbert & Sullivan Collection

Average customer rating:

Well worth the price
Not Exactly "The Ultimate" Collection...
Where's the chicks?!?!
Not quite the ultimate....
Great Music - Questionable Selection

The Ultimate Gilbert & Sullivan Collection
Arthur Sullivan , Isidore Godfrey , Royston Nash , New Symphony Orchestra of London , Royal Philharmonic Orchestra , Colin Wright , Donald Adams , George Cook , Gillian Knight , Jean Hindmarsh , Jeffrey Skitch , John Ayldon , John Reed , Joyce Wright , Kenneth Sandford , Lyndsie Holland , Owen Brannigan , Pauline Wales , Peggy Ann Jones , Thomas Round , Valerie Masterson , and D'Oyly Carte Opera Company
Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music
Similar Items:

The Best of Gilbert & Sullivan
Gilbert & Sullivan - Highlights from The Mikado, The Pirates of Penzance, H.M.S. Pinafore, The Yeomen of the Guard, Trial of Jury
Topsy-Turvy - The Music of Gilbert & Sullivan: From the Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
Topsy-Turvy
The Best of Gilbert & Sullivan

ASIN: B000007OU0
Release Date: 1998-06-09

Tracks:

H.M.S. Pinafore: We Shall Sail The Ocean Blue
H.M.S. Pinafore: I'm Called Little Buttercup
H.M.S. Pinafore: My Galant Crew, Good Morning
H.M.S. Pinafore: I'm The Monarch Of The Sea
H.M.S. Pinafore: When I Was A Lad
H.M.S. Pinafore: Nevermind The Why And Wherefore
H.M.S. Pinafore: Kind Captain, I've Important Information
H.M.S. Pinafore: Carefully On Tip - Toe Stealing
H.M.S. Pinafore: For He Is An Englishman
The Pirates Of Penzance: I Am The Very Model Of A Modern Major - General
The Pirates Of Penzance: When A Felon's Not Engaged In His Employment
The Pirates Of Penzance: With Cat Like Tread
The Sorcerer: My Name Is John Wellinton Wells
The Gondoliers: Take A Pair Of Sparkling Eyes
Patience: If You're Anxious To Shine
The Mikado: If You Want To Know Who We Are
The Mikado: A Wand'ring Minstrel I
The Mikado: Behold The Lord High Executioner
The Mikado: As Someday It May Happen
The Mikado: Three Little Maids From School Are We
The Mikado: The Sun Whose Rays Are All Ablaze
The Mikado: Here's A How - De - Do!
The Mikado: From Ev'ry Kind Of Man Obedience I Expect
The Mikado: A More Humane Mikado Never Did In Japan Exist
The Mikado: The Criminal Cried As He Dropp'd Him Down
The Mikado: The Flowers That Bloom In The Spring, Tra La
The Mikado: On A Tree By A River A Little Tom Tit
The Mikado: There Is Beauty In The Bellow Of The Blast
The Mikado: For He's Gone And Married Yum-Yum

Customer Reviews:

Well worth the price.......2006-04-13

I love this CD. No, despite its name it is not the "ultimate" collection, as scarcely could be expected from a single CD. It is heavy on Mikado, as others have stated. It leaves out things I would have included and includes things I would have left out. But the performances are wonderful, traditional and all you expect from G&S. Considering the low price, it is well worth including in your G&S collection ... as PART of your collection. After the disappointment of the godawful Opera World video series (Don't buy it!) this CD is a joy and a relief.

Not Exactly "The Ultimate" Collection..........2004-12-23

It seems that a collection of Gilbert & Sullivan music that has the name "The Ultimate Collection" in its title would boast a wide range of music, but I found the selection disappointing. Half of the tracks are songs from The Mikado, and the other half is divided between five... yes, FIVE other operettas. This means that the representation from each operetta is awfully scant. I would have liked to see less Mikado and more of everything else, and perhaps some highlights from the more obscure operettas (Princess Ida and The Sorcerer, namely).

In addition, while most of the music is very well performed, some of the vocalists either go a bit overboard or, at the very opposite end, seem to lack expression. For example, this Nanki-Poo (in The Mikado) seems to be overly occupied with vibrato. Katisha's voice is annoying, and The Mikado's low voice often seems to lack feeling and humor. The other idiosyncracies, like the very frightening evil laughing during "A More Humane Mikado" and hissing during "Three Little Maids" really bug me.

Then again, I'm new to Gilbert and Sullivan, and was introduced to the music through the Topsy Turvy soundtrack, which has a noticeably less operatic style, and hardly includes "stage noise"... so perhaps all this is the norm. Do listen to the tracks for yourself, though, before you purchase the CD. Personally, I find that the Topsy Turvy soundtrack, while considerably less ecompassing, is much lighthearted and easier listening.

Where's the chicks?!?!.......2003-05-15

It wouldn't be G&S if not for the ladies - so where are they? How could they leave out Mabel's aria - or Josephine's!? The only female aria included on this disc comes from Mikado, which is the least exciting (if G&S could be un-exciting) of the three! Everything else on the recording is great, but I am still quite disappointed.

Not quite the ultimate...........2002-03-25

This is a great collection, but unfortunately it doesn't have songs from all the works of G&S. Most notably, there is nothing from the "Yeoman of the Guard". I still reccommed it however as John Reed is wonderful!!

Great Music - Questionable Selection.......2002-02-05

It's an ongoing challenge to find a recording of Gilbert and Sullivan that combines premium musicality and great theatrical performance. This recording is a true gem on both fronts. My only complaint is that for a "Best of" collection, this compilation is Mikado-heavy and scarcely touches on highlights from other masterpieces, particularly The Pirates of Penzance. This would be my favorite G&S CD of all time, of only it included tracks like "When the Foeman Bares his Steel," "Poor Wand'ring One," and "Dry the Glist'ning Tear," but then again, I guess there's no real consensus as to which are Gilbert and Sullivan's best works, and there are too many to fit on one CD.

American Virtuosa: Tribute to Maud Powell

Average customer rating:

Great Tribute--Wonderfully Performed

American Virtuosa: Tribute to Maud Powell

Manufacturer: Cedille
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Waltzes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
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Volodos Plays Liszt
Scottish Fantasies for Violin and Orchestra with Rachel Pine (2 CDs)

ASIN: B000QGDZAU
Release Date: 2007-06-12

Tracks:

Amy Beach: Romance
Percy Grainger: Molly on the Shore
Dvorak: Songs My Mother Sang
Sibelius: Musette
Marion Eugenie Bauer: Up the Ocklawaha
Chopin: "Minute" Waltz
Carl Venth: Aria
Selim Palmgren: May Night
Coleridge-Taylor: Deep River
Dvorak: Humoreske
H.P. Danks: Silver Threads Among the Gold
Herman Bellstedt, Jr.: Caprice on Dixie
Henry Holden Huss: Romance
Harry Mathena Gilbert: Marionettes (Scherzo)
Cecil Burleigh: Four Rocky Mountain Sketches
Cecil Burleigh: Four Rocky Mountain Sketches
Cecil Burleigh: Four Rocky Mountain Sketches
Cecil Burleigh: Four Rocky Mountain Sketches
Massenet: Twilight
Max Liebling: Fantasia on Sousa Themes
J. Rosamund Johnson: Nobody Knows the Trouble I See

Album Description

"Everything about this release by violinist Rachel Barton Pine is exceptional." --ClassicsToday [10/10] (on Scottish Fantasies)

"Recordings don't get any better than this." -- ClassicsToday [10/10] (on Brahms & Joachim Violin Concertos)

Chicago native Rachel Barton Pine was a child prodigy who began performing in public at age seven. Today she is one of America's most acclaimed violinists, as well as the best selling artist on Cedille Records. Maud Powell (1867-1920) was the premier female American violinist of her era, and she made numerous classic recordings between 1904 and 1919 that are still sought after by collectors. This CD is a tribute from one eminent American violinist to another, honoring Maud Powell for the tremendous positive influence she had on later American artists. All of the selections are works recorded originally by Powell, now able to be heard in contemporary sound. Many of the selections are seldom or never recorded elsewhere, and all are extremely accessible.

Customer Reviews:

Great Tribute--Wonderfully Performed.......2007-07-13

This recording is just plain fun! Rachel Barton Pine is one of my favorite young violinists, and this may be my favorite of her albums! Not only is the music exceptionally well chosen, Mrs. Pine's performances are top-notch across the board. As usual, her technique is wonderful. And the musicality of the performances leaves nothing to be desired. Just listen to the sweetness of her playing in Amy Beach's Romance! I can listen to this one track over and over and not become bored. Then contrast the fiery virtuosity Pine exhibits in Bellstedt's Caprice on Dixie. Just wonderful! Let's just say this disc is going to remain in my CD player for a long time! Highly, highly recommended.

Average customer rating:

Awesome
Spiritually Uplifting
I really enjoyed it!
Lots of energy, but flawed live performance
Great Praise for my Presiding Bishop!

Singing the Old Time Way, Vol. 1
Bishop Gilbert E. Patterson
Manufacturer: Podium Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Gospel | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Live Recordings | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music
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Singing the Old Time Way 2
Having Church with the Saints
Live: Having Good Old Fashioned Church
Singing the Old Time Way 2
Hide Me

ASIN: B0007A5EH2
Release Date: 2005-03-08

Tracks:

Intro
Old Time Way
Old Ship of Zion
Going Back to Jesus
He Never Has Left Me Alone
No, Never Alone
I'm Going to Live So God Can Use Me
Jesus I'll Never Forget What You Done for Me
Sweet Jesus, He's the Lily of the Valley
I'm Leaving All to Follow Jesus
I Want to Be Like Jesus
I'll Take Jesus for Mine
Glory, Glory Hallelujah
Wonderful, Hallelujah
Praise the Lord Forever and Forever
Isn't He Wonderful
To Me, It's Wonderful
Jesus Is Mine
Just Another Day
I Shall Never Let Go His Hand
What More Can He Do
I Thank the Lord for Jesus
I Got Just What I Wanted from the Lord
When the Fire Fell

Tracks:

When I Think of the Goodness of Jesus
When I See the Blood
I Know It Was the Blood
Blood Prevails
I Know His Blood Has Made Me Whole
I Know the Bible Is Right
Jesus Is on the Mainline
Saints Don't Stop Praying for the Lord Is Nigh
Thou Carest Lord
There Is Therefore Now, No Condemnation
Tell Is Over Again, It's Never Been Told
Count Up All the Cost
Jesus Paid It All
You Brought Me Lord
How Much I Owe
My Heart Is Fixed, My Mind Made Up
Do Lord Remember Me
Oh My Record Will Be There
He'll Understand and Say Well Done
What Do You Want the Lord to Say
When I Get Inside the Gate

Product Description

Recorded live in Memphis, Tn is this 2 cd set By Bishop G.E. Patterson and Congregation. Contains.... The Old Time Way, Old Ship of Zion,Going Back to Jesus,He never has left me Alone,No never Alone, Im going to live so GOD can use me, When the fire Fell, When I see the Blood, Thou Carest LORD, Jesus paid it all, and many other Wonder Songs of Glory. 24 on the first disc (counting the Intro) and 21 on the second disc.

Customer Reviews:

Awesome.......2007-03-02

That's all I have to say...AWESOME This CD makes me want God more and more every time I hear it.

Spiritually Uplifting.......2006-11-10

I found this CD to be spiritually uplifting. You will find yourself listening to this CD repetitively as the lyrics minister to your spirit. If you try Vol. 1, then you must also listen to Vol. 2. What a joy to hear songs the "old time way."

I really enjoyed it!.......2006-03-12

This CD blessed my soul as I heard Bishop Patterson and others going forth in song. I purchased one for us and sent a copy to
our daughter in Missouri.

Lots of energy, but flawed live performance.......2006-03-02

This is a really energizing recording, but it has many of the flaws that come naturally from a live recording of a worship service. Bishop Patterson was so hoarse (allergies, sung out, whatever), that he can barely get his voice to sound in a couple of places. Also, like many gospel recordings, there are several "call and response" interactions between the soloist and the choir, but the choir isn't miked, and I don't know what they are singing.

A couple of the soloists (other than Bishop Patterson) seem to have limited range, and some have pitch problems (perhaps they couldn't hear the monitor).

My least favorite tracks were the glacially slow and rhythm-free renditions of some old choruses. So slow, in fact, that you have no idea when they're going to start the next phrase.

My favorite track is "My Record Will Be There", which is simply the chorus of an old hymn set to 12-bar blues. But the original melody is lost completely, and the words are just the chorus sung through twice. I miss the words to the old time hymns. Especially when, like in this case, where the 5th verse is the only one that talks about grace and forgiveness.

Theologically, my impression is that the songs on this album are much more about judgment and condemnation than with grace. There's a lot about my record being there when I go before the judgment bar, and about how you can't get to heaven while you're sippin' on gin. I wish there was more focus on what will get you into heaven than what will keep you out. Overemphasis on wrong living gives the impression that you can get to heaven by good works.

Having said all that, it was worth the price of admission to get one track of Christian 12-bar blues.

Great Praise for my Presiding Bishop!.......2006-02-08

This is the music of yesterday that is what we need to carry us through today!! What an inspiration to hear the voice of my Presiding Bishop bringing us back to "the old time way". Most of these songs were here before I got here, but how well do I remember my grandmother, the church mothers, and the saints striking out and going forth in these songs of praise! They sang until the anointing fell and it didn't take long to fall!!! Thank you Bishop for sharing this music with the world and to all who is trying to decide on this cd, well there is just no way you can go wrong with this one if you truly love the Lord. Shout out to my own jurisdictional Bishop, Bishop Robert R. Sanders... Third Jurisdiction of Illinois!!!

Gilbert & Sullivan - Highlights from The Mikado, The Pirates of Penzance, H.M.S. Pinafore, The Yeomen of the Guard, Trial of Jury

Average customer rating:

The Best Of Gilbert And Sullivan
Pure delight
Delicious G&S samplings abound here.
Fine Intro to G&S

Gilbert & Sullivan - Highlights from The Mikado, The Pirates of Penzance, H.M.S. Pinafore, The Yeomen of the Guard, Trial of Jury
Nicholas Folwell , Arthur Sullivan , Marie McLaughlin , Rebecca Evans , Anthony Rolfe Johnson , John Mark Ainsley , Alwyn Mellor , Anne Howells , Barry Banks , Eric Garrett , Felicity Palmer , Gareth Rhys Davies , Janice Watson , Julie Gossage , Neill Archer , Pamela Helen Stephen , Peter Savidge , Richard Stuart , Richard Suart , Richard Van Allan , Sir Thomas Allen [baritone] , Sir Charles Mackerras , and Welsh National Opera
Manufacturer: Telarc
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

4-for-3 Classical | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music

4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music
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The Ultimate Gilbert & Sullivan Collection
Topsy-Turvy - The Music of Gilbert & Sullivan: From the Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
The Best of Gilbert & Sullivan
The Complete Annotated Gilbert & Sullivan
The Gilbert and Sullivan Overtures

ASIN: B000003D1Y
Release Date: 1996-01-23

Tracks:

A Wandering Minstrel I
Behold The Lord High Executioner!
Three Little Maids From School Are We
Braid The Raven Hair
The Flowers That Bloom In The Spring
On A Tree By A River, A Little Tom-tit Sang, 'Willow, Tit-willow'
For He's Gone And Married Yum-Yum
We Sail The Ocean Blue
I'm Called Little Buttercup
My Gallant Crew
When I Was A Lad
Things Are Seldom What They Seem
Never Mind The Why And Wherefore
Climbing Over Rocky Mountain
Poor Wand'ring One
How Beautifully Blue The Sky
I Am The Very Model Of A Modern Major-General
When The Foeman Bares His Steel
Ah, Leave Me Not To Pine
With Cat-Like Tread
Is Life A Boon?
I Have A Song To Sing, O!
Were I Thy Bride
Oh, A Private Buffoon Is A Light-Hearted Loon
When A Wooer Goes A-Wooing
When I, Good Friends, Was Called To The Bar
A Nice Dilemma We Have Here
Oh, Joy Unbounded

Customer Reviews:

The Best Of Gilbert And Sullivan.......2004-03-15

At the end of the 19th century (1870's, 80's and 90's) the compatible duo of librettist and composer Gilbert and Sullivan popularized the pre-Broadway entertainment of Savoy opera. These were light operas or operettas whose content was satire and comedy, full of bouncy melodies and beautiful singing, highly entertaining theatrical works staged at London's Savoy theatre. Gilbert and Sullivan did not always get along and in fact there was a time when they ended their professional relationship because personal conflicts surfaced. But they managed to create the world's most beloved light operas, over 40 of them. Their most famous are what I call the Big Three- The H.M.S. Pinafore, The Pirates Of Penzance and The Mikado. Other works include their first hit Trial By Jury, The Yeomen Of The Guard, Princess Ida, The Gondoliers, Patience and several others. A standard signature of Gilbert and Sullivan was in the colorful cast- a comic actor with a special kind of baritone voice, a canary-like and sweet-voiced coloratura or lyric diva, a mezzo soprano with strong chest register and a lyric tenor as the romantic hero. On this album, English conductor Sir Charles Mackerras, a popular figure in the classical music scene and opera, guides the Chorus and Orchestra Of the Welsh National Opera in generally well-delivered performances of excerpts from the operas The Mikado, The H.M.S. Pinafore, The Pirates Of Penzance, Yeomen Of The Guard and Trial By Jury. Although I feel that the recordings made by the D'Oyly Carte Opera Company, with Isodore Godfrey conducting and starring the best cast of the Gilbert and Sullivan repertoire- the singers of the 60's and 70's- tenor Phillip Potter, soprano Valerie Masterson, baritone John Reed, Donald Adams and mezzo soprano Christine Palmer. Their version of the Pirates Of Penzance and the Mikado far outshine the Welsh National Opera in technical mastery and vibrant tone color.

But these are fine excerpts. Especially appealing is the famous and cheerful "Three Little Maids From School Are We", a trio that imitates Japanese style melody. Most of the Mikado does this, for it was inspired by Japanisme or the new fashion in Victorian England- everything Japanese, from prints to paintings to poetry. Gilbert and Sullivan simply "Japanized" their English operettas. The Finale "For He's Gone To Marry Yum Yum" is an ebullient and pleasant finale. Not featured here is the domineering and powerful Katisha, a figure who stands out in the Mikado.

The H.M.S. Pinafore is Gilbert and Sullivan's most popular work. The sea chanty "We Sail The Ocean Blue" opens the opera with appropriate atmosphere and it seems to fit perfectly with the other scene in which the Captain greets his crew and they sing his praises "My Gallant Crew..I am the Captain Of The Pinafore". A beautiful melody that seems to come out of a romantic Offenbach tune is "I"m Called Little Buttercup". The finale, not featured here, is also very engaging "For He Is An Englishman" which can almost resemble a British national anthem. The Yeomen Of The Guard was Gilbert and Sullivan's "serious opera" eventhough it remains very Savoyard. The plot deals with Tudor England and takes place at the London Tower. "I have a song to sing" makes use of what can be taken for an English ballad of the Renaissance. Trial By Jury, about the eccentric and hilarious activity of a court trial, has a sextet that although different in composition, has the sextet "Che Mi Frena" from Donizetti's Lucia Di Lammermoor in mind. All in all, an excellent recording sure to delight young and old.

Pure delight.......2003-08-02

--Gilbert & Sullivan--
William Gilbert and Arthur Sullivan were a match made in heaven, yet on earth their pairing seems even with hindsight a most unlikely coupling. Both were destined for other things, Gilbert in fact for decidedly non-musical careers. Introduced by a mutual friend, Fred Clay, the fledgling lyricist Gilbert met the military-band-leader's son Sullivan and together continued to conspire to inspire the delights of audiences from high Victorian times down to the present, as their work in musical theatre comedy continues to provide merriment throughout the English-speaking world and beyond.

--The Music--
This collection includes highlights from five of the most popular Gilbert & Sullivan operettas: The Mikado, HMS Pinafore, The Pirates of Penzance, The Yeoman of the Guard, and Trial by Jury. The arrangements and orchestrations are delightfully energetic and clear; the characterisation and vocal qualities of the leads are perfect for their roles. The haughty if misplaced Lord of the Admiralty has the perfect combination of insecurity and pompous officiousness. The Plaintiff and the Defendant in the Trial are perfectly cast. This is a collection of highlights - at least three but no more than seven songs each, but this gives a good flavour of the music. The recordings on this collection come from complete performances by Mackerras and the WNO.

--Sir Charles Mackerras--
Mackerras is one of the geniuses of the twentieth century musical scene. Having a conducting career that includes the Hamburg Opera, the English National Opera (formerly Sadlers Wells Opera), and the Welsh National Opera (the performers for this piece), he has also conducted major orchestras on the continent of Europe and in the United States. The holder of many major awards and honourary doctorates, he has devoted much time and energy to the preservation and performance of eighteenth and nineteenth century music, as well the restoration of historical musical venues, such as the Estates Theatre in Prague, scene of the original production of Don Giovanni (Mackerras conducted the opera there to commemorate the bicentenary of the death of Mozart).

--Welsh National Opera Orchestra and Chorus--
The seeds of the WNO were planted in Cardiff during World War II by music lovers; the first performances occurred a year after the war's end, with Cavalleria rusticana and Pagliacci on the bill, with Faust the next night. Popular appeal was so great that the WNO was established, later adding choruses in both Cardiff and Swansea. The professional chorus was established in 1973, with a strength that matches the orchestra. They continue an ambitious performance schedule for recording and live events; Mackerras remains the Conductor Emeritus, as the WNO continues under the direction of Carlo Rizzi. The list of awards the WNO has won over the years is staggering - they are a world class institution by any measure.

--Other performers--
Notable singers such as Richard Stuart, Rebecca Evans, Felicity Palmer, John Mark Ainsley and Anne Howells lead the chorus with stunning vocals and clever characterisations of the parts they play. Many (such as Stuart and Evans) play the leading roles across several of the pieces of the disc.

--Liner Notes--
The liner notes give a good introduction and biographical information about Gilbert and Sullivan, as well as synopses of the five pieces presented here. It does not, unfortunately, include any information about Mackerras, the WNO Orchestra and Chorus, or the other special performers. It also does not include the lyrics to the songs. Were the quality of the CD not so great, this might cost it a star in rating.

--Overall Impressions--
I play this CD in my car, in my home and in my office frequently. It is a great sing-along work and a great comedic relief from the stresses of the day. The music is bubbly and clear; the recording quality is excellent and crisp. I recommend this to any Gilbert & Sullivan lover, any fan of musical comedy, opera and operettas, and anyone who delights in good music.

Delicious G&S samplings abound here........2003-05-06

The first thing I should be saying is "What an infectuous G&S CD." Indeed this is, with this fine sampling of the peppy and bright Mackerras series. I know I have praised its "Mercedes-Benz quality" elsewhere on these pages, but that doesn't stop me from saying that everyone is in fine voice. This generously filled CD may only focus on five operas, but at least you can savour a reasonable choice sampling of delights from each one. Of particular interest is Richard Suart's patter-baritone parts and the soaring lyric soprano of Rebecca Evans. The selection on this disc is filled with a mixture of familiar favourites and lesser-known gems such as the female choruses in Mikado and Pirates. Mackerras is a true G&S conductor, but one who always springs rhythms crisply, and adopts peppy tempo for the fast bits. The one drawback is that this selection is far too infectuous that you'll want to shell out money to buy the full 5-CD Mackerras cycle - an incredible bargain with most of the operas fitted onto one disc each. But still, this is at least a decent G&S sampling for beginners, capped with Steven Ledbetter's copious liner notes. It will leave you wanting to say "dammit I'm going to play it again."

Fine Intro to G&S.......2000-12-30

This is the perfect CD for those who may not be familiar with G&S, or for the initiated who want a smattering but don't have the mother of all CD changers. The difficulty with any G&S Greatest Hits CD is determining which pieces to leave off; while one could easily point to any number equally good bits, it would be difficult to argue about the quality of the choices included. The only problem, such as it is, is that after listening to it I am usually induced to go back and listen to the whole opera anyway. The Mackerras recordings are uniformly excellent. I have read elsewhere the criticism that they are too 'operatic' for light opera. If by this it is meant that the singers are too good, then I leave it to the discretion of the listener when the singing becomes too good to be enjoyable.

Music Review:

Music Review

music review

Music Review

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