Charm & Passion Of Youth

1. Overture, for brass septet in F minor
Composed by Jean Sibelius
with Finnish Brass Ensemble
Conducted by Jukka-Pekka Saraste

2. Petite Suite, for brass septet
Composed by Jean Sibelius
with Finnish Brass Ensemble
Conducted by Jukka-Pekka Saraste

3. Allegro, for brass septet & triangle in E-flat minor
Composed by Jean Sibelius
with Finnish Brass Ensemble
Conducted by Jukka-Pekka Saraste

4. Tiera, tone poem for brass septet & percussion
Composed by Jean Sibelius
with Finnish Brass Ensemble
Conducted by Jukka-Pekka Saraste

5. Partita for brass
Composed by Usko Merilainen
with Finnish Brass Ensemble
Conducted by Jukka-Pekka Saraste

6. Requiem in our Time, for brass, Op. 3
Composed by Einojuhani Rautavaara
with Finnish Brass Ensemble
Conducted by Jukka-Pekka Saraste

Tracks:

The Sky and the Dawn and the Sun
The Prayer
Newgrange
Over The Rainbow
Granuaile's Dance
The Blessing
Dúlaman
Beyond The Sea
The Last Rose of Summer
Caledonia
Laschia Ch'io Pianga
Carrickfergus
Vivaldi's Rain
The Voice
carborough Fair
o Ghile MearBonus Tracks:
Sing Out!
Shenandoah - The Pacific Slope (Live from Slane Castle)
At The Céili (Live from Slane Castle)
Spanish Lady (Live from Slane Castle)

Amazon.com

Second only to Riverdance as an international Irish showbiz phenomenon, previous installments of this Platinum-selling extravaganza have become beloved PBS standards. The original buxom quartet of female singers, Lisa, Maev, Orla, and Chloe, have duly been joined by Hayley and are, as usual, backed by a full symphony orchestra and choir, plus enough traditional instruments (the house fiddler, Mairead, is a powerhouse) to keep things legit. The material ranges from folkloric ("Dúlaman" is best known from Clannad's legendary rendering), to a standard from another Celtic nation ("Caledonia," Dougie McLean's love letter to his native Scotland), to classical lite (Handel's poignant "Laschia Ch'io Pianga"), to movie hits ("Somewhere Over The Rainbow" in a delicately lovely, a cappella, close-harmony treatment), to homegrown New Age (Enya's "Newgrange"). Most tracks are produced to turn, presented in the aural equivalent of Technicolor or day-glo, in which colors pop while diverging ever so slightly from nature. In short, although the album offers fresh material, it covers old ground -- but this is exactly what the act's target audience expects and desires. Fans of acoustic folk would likely find the prevailing aesthetic a touch garish, but fans of Sarah Brightman and Il Divo will be diverted and thrilled. The deluxe package offers four bonus tracks, three of them live, plus a silver claddagh charm. --Christina Roden

Celtic Woman Photos

More from Celtic Woman

Celtic Woman
Walking in the Air, Chloe
Lisa

Customer Reviews:

celtic woman a new journey.......2007-07-16

This is a very good cd and very enjoyable. If you like this type of music it is a must have.

celtic woman- a new journey.......2007-07-15

This is a great album if you like CW. You will not find typically[traditional] Irish music; but it can be compared to a Las Vegas show.
There are some great easy-listening songs, with an upbeat twist. These
ladies do a great job harmonizing.

5+stars!!!!.......2007-07-13

From the moment I first heard their Slane Castle concert on PBS, I LOVED Celtic Woman's music. They all have BEAUTIFUL voices. The youngest, Chloe, is amazing. I have this CD, the concert DVD that goes w/ it, their first concert on DVD (at the Helix in Dublin), and the CD that goes w/ it.

CD GREAT, SHIPPING NIGHTMARE.......2007-07-10

This CD, as everyone has previously mentioned, is absolutely awesome. I purchased two of the 'deluxe' editions, one for myself and one for my mother's 91st birthday. The shipping, direct from [...], was a disaster. They will say shipping dates are 'estimated,' however, they went far beyond that. I got an email after two weeks saying they were having some kind of unspecified problem filling the order and then got the product about 10 days after that. Totally unacceptable. I've always had excellent service from Amazon sellers (aftermarket), but I will certainly discourage my friends from giving me Amazon gift certificates in the future, as they have done in the past. Shame, Amazon!

Expectations Well Met.......2007-07-09

A New Journey is fun and relaxing listening...met all of our expectations. My 3 girls ages 9-14 love it and so do I.

Average customer rating:

A Beautiful And Personal Album
Great Comeback
Underrated!!! - Mariah's most soulful vocals
Charm is truley what it is
Nice Effort by the Butterfly Queen

Charmbracelet
Mariah Carey
Manufacturer: Island
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

General | R&B | Styles | Music

General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music

Contemporary | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Rainbow
Butterfly
Daydream
Emotions
Glitter

ASIN: B00006RY8N
Release Date: 2002-12-03

Tracks:

Through The Rain
Boy (I Need You) feat. Cam'Ron
The One
Yours
You Got Me feat. Jay-Z and Freeway
I Only Wanted
Clown
My Saving Grace
You Had Your Chance
Lullaby
Irresistible (Westside Connection)
Subtle Invitation
Bringin' On The Heartbreak
Sunflowers For Alfred Roy
Through The Rain (Remix) feat. Kelly Price and Joe

Amazon.com

Mariah Carey's ninth album has been touted as her comeback album, coming as it does after the belly flop that produced the overwrought soundtrack to her ill-fated film, Glitter. With Charmbracelet, Carey goes out of her way to fix all those aesthetic glitches, tempering the overblown vocals, simpering lyrics, and uninspired funk covers of her last album and returning to what she does best--showcasing her magnificent five-octave voice and pillaging her lift history for inspiration. After her breakup with superstar Luis Miguel, MTV meltdown, hospitalization for exhaustion, and the death of her father, Carey had a lot of emotional baggage to sift through. She has and, as a result, has created an inspired and diverse 15-song opus that finds her skipping from an impassioned Aretha Franklin-like gospel ("Saving Grace") to an impish cover of Def Leppard's power ballad "Bringin' on the Heartbreak." Though he's not mentioned by name, rapper Eminem is given a pointed drubbing on "Clowns" for hinting in the press and in his own song "Superman" of a relationship with Carey. There hasn't been such a compelling musical soap opera since Carly Simon's '70s roman à clef, "You're So Vain." However, the disc's most inspiring moment comes on "Sunflowers for Alfred Roy," a wistful elegy for her father that recounts his final days in his hospital room. This is a stunning return to form for Carey. --Jaan Uhelszki

Customer Reviews:

A Beautiful And Personal Album.......2007-05-05

All I can say is that this album was Overlooked. This album got bashed by Critics and Fans, but it didn't deserve to be. It is a Very Good Album. I Loved "Emancipation" and skipped this one to listen to that album instead. I'm glad I went back and listened to this one. Fans of Albums such as 1995's "Daydream" and 97's "Butterfly" will no doubt enjoy this ballad laced piece of work.
This Album is just as beautiful, and more personal. It is soothing for the soul to hear the songs on this album.
I am only giving it a 4 Star rating because I only enjoyed 10 out of the 15 songs on the album. Thats not bad though. I didn't enjoy any of the rapping songs, and preffered the Ballads and Jazz songs.

My Favourite Tracks are the Beautiful "Throught The Rain" a song that talks about holding on and getting through personal problems and difficult times. The Lyrics are beautiful

"Saving Grace" is undeniabbly one of the best songs on the Album. It is Beautiful and Very Inspiring. It talks about finding that someone special and being saved by them and the love they give. In Carey's case this is God, as she states at the end "Lord, My Saving Grace Is You". The Lyrics go "I've Loved A Lot. Hurt A Lot. Been Burned A Lot. In My Life, Been Times, Been Precious Years. Wrapped Up In Fears. With No End In Sight. Until My Saving Grace. Shined On Me. Until My Saving Grace. Set Me Free". This song is Very Uplifting.

"Sunflowers For Alfred Roy" is without a doubt the Album's most personal song. In fact it's Mariah's most personal song she has ever recorded. It is a Hymn for her late father Alfred Roy Carey. It talks about meeting him up in heaven, and has wonderful imagery."Thinking of the Mounains and the Lakes and Clouds. I'm Picturing Us There Right Now, As The Crystal Cascade Showers Down". I could not help but get a little teary eyed as I heard it.

"I Only Wanted" is another one of my favourite songs on the album. I love the Spanish Guitar and Water Effects. I Think that's the best part of the song. It's Very Warm sounding.

"The One" is a good R'n'B song, and one of the Albums Best. Very Catchy. I also enjoyed "Yours" which is a sweet ballad. The Lyrics go "You Brighten Up The Moon and Stars At Night. Keep Me Seeing Rainbows In The Sky. You Bring New Meaning To My Life. Now I Believe in Miracles, cos Baby I'm Forever Yours"

I Also liked the jazz sounding "Subtle Invitation" and "Lullaby". They are both very relaxing and catchy at the same time.There is also a decent remake of Def Lepperds "Bringin' On The Heart Break".

Great Comeback.......2007-04-02

After a well deserved rest from fatigue, both mental and physical, this CD was just what the doctor ordered. One of the most inspiring career comebacks of any artist. Hopefully she'll stick to her vowel of no longer working around-the-clock, and knowing when to leave the studio.

Underrated!!! - Mariah's most soulful vocals.......2007-01-04

I have to admit that when this album first came out, I was so dissapointed. I only liked Through the Rain and Bringin' on the Heartbreak at the time. I disliked the album so much that I gave it to a friend LOL.

But then I just recently started listening to it again, and I love nearly every song on the album. Okay, her vocals aren't the very best, but they are way underrated. On songs like "Lullaby" and "You Had Your Chance", her falsetto makes the songs sound kinda mysterious and sexy. And to those who think her voice is "gone", listen to Through the Rain and Subtle Invitation, espeically the end of both songs. INCREDIBLE! Some of Mariah's best vocals ever.

Her voice has evolved from soul-less and empty during the Music Box days. What you guys miss is the youthful sound that she had, but this album was recorded 10 years after that era. What I love is that Mariah is almost singing to save herself now. So much conviction in her voice. I really think if you dislike this album because of vocals, listen to it again like I did, you'll probably like it a lot more.

The only songs I dislike on this record are "Boy", "Sunflowers", and "TTR Remix". And I also like Irresistable without the rappers a lot better. It was on some promo CD. But I really dont mind the rappers that much anymore.

Charm is truley what it is.......2006-12-24

Mariah has really eveolved as an artist on this record. Her songs are so beautiful and meaningful. You can relate on so many levels while these somgs are playing. They can make you happy, they can make you cry. Through The Rain, The One, You Got Me, Yours and my all time favorite My Saving Grace. Her voice compliments the songs in so many different ways. I just wish there was more notiriety and publicity for this record. There wasnt enough. There should have been at least 2 more video's as well. She is here to stay....

Nice Effort by the Butterfly Queen.......2006-11-25

This is a good album, not as good as TEOM, but it showed good effort. Mariah's voice is very pretty on most songs ("Boy" is the only real disappointment). The booklet that comes with the album has a lot of sexy pics of Ms. Carey (which is never a bad thing!)

Lavender Blue: Songs of Charm, Humour & Sincerity

Average customer rating:

A True Delight
Finally a great Burl Ives compilation!

Lavender Blue: Songs of Charm, Humour & Sincerity
Burl Ives
Manufacturer: Jasmine Music
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Folk | Styles | Music

Traditional Folk | Folk | Styles | Music

General | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

20th Century Masters - The Millennium Collection: The Best of Burl Ives
The Wayfaring Stranger
Burl Ives Sings Little White Duck (And Other Children's Favorites)
Return of the Wayfaring Stranger
A Little Bitty Tear

ASIN: B00005080L
Release Date: 2000-11-14

Tracks:

The Doughnut Song
Blue Tail Fly
I Know My Love
Lavender Cowboy
The Big Rock Candy Mountain
The Little White Duck
The Goat And The Train
Mr. Rabbit
The Fox
It Makes No Different Now
Cowboy's Lament (Streets Of Laredo)
I've Got No Use For Women
Lavender Blue (Dilly Dilly)
Venezuela
I'm Thinking Tonight Of My Blue Eyes
On the Grand Canyon Line
Sweet Betsy From The Pike
Mr. Froggie Went A-Courtin'
Rodger Young
Foggy, Foggy, Dew
Little Mohee
Frankie And Johnny
The Riddle Song
Riders In The Sky (A Cowboy Legend)
I'm Goin' Down The Road

Customer Reviews:

A True Delight.......2007-06-12

This CD is advertised as having charm, humour and sincerity. All true. My husband has been telling me for over 20 years about Burl Ives singing Ghost Riders in the Sky, but I didn't pay much attention. I mean, I have heard that song by other artists before, and it didn't impress me. Then finally, one day I was trying to think of some little gift for him to show that I love him so much, and this song came to mind. I went on Amazon, typed in the song and artist, and there it was. Clicked "Buy It Now", and promptly forgot about it. In short order, there it was in the mailbox, and hubby out of town. I opened it (remember, it was bought as a present for HIM), and just sat and smiled and smiled and smiled as I listened. The Riders In the Sky brought tears to my eyes. I have heard that song before, but never like this version!! Every song is a feast to the ears. Pure listening pleasure. I suspect I will have to order my own since we have separate offices!!!

Finally a great Burl Ives compilation!.......2004-02-29

Burl fans have waited years for a quality CD which includes most of his great songs. Though this compilation omits a few of his treasures, it's still the best Greatest Hits package out there. If you own only one Burl Ives album, then make it this one. Unfortunately, current marketers rehash many of Ives' worst songs, the ones geared towards small children, basically novelty songs. Unfortunately, there are a couple of these clunkers of this album, but you can easily skip over those.

Most of this is an adult album with some of the most common-sense and beautiful singing you will ever hear. Many of the cuts were recorded in 1960 with just Burl, his guitar and a few special effects. The songs are American standards and Burl's interpretation is marvelous throughout. His penetrating, unique voice will send shivers down your spine with his rendition of Riders in the Sky. There are some curious omissions, like Mule Train, John Henry and Lindy Lou. You can buy "Wayfaring Stranger" for those gems.

Ives is a master at singing these songs and this is a honest, stripped-down, unadorned masterpiece. They don't make music like this anymore, and as far as this genre goes, this is as good as it gets.

Average customer rating:

Early Childhood Classics - Old Favorites With A New Twist

One of the best young children's CDs!

Great Kid Tunes

Great music, great twist

A favorite at library storytime

Early Childhood Classics - Old Favorites With A New Twist
Hap Palmer
Manufacturer: Hap-Pal Music/Newsound
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Children's Music | Styles | Music
Educational | Children's Music | Styles | Music
General | Children's Music | Indie Music | Stores | Music
Children's Educational | Children's Music | Indie Music | Stores | Music
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So Big - Activity Songs For Little Ones

Learning Basic Skills Through Music Vol. 1

Getting to know Myself

Rhythms on Parade

One Little Sound - Fun With Phonics And Numbers

ASIN: B00004RDLD
Release Date: 2000-02-01

Tracks:

Itsy Bitsy Spider
Pat-A-Cake
I'm a Little Teapot
Old Mac Donald
Touch Your Toes To Your Nose
Circle Songs: The Mulberry Bush, Ring Around the Rosy, Hokey Pokey
Open Shut Them
One, Two, Buckle My Shoe
Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes
Bingo
The Elephant
I'm Glad I'm Me
Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star
The Wheels on the Bus
Good-bye Song

Amazon.com

Hap Palmer may be best known for his vocal contributions to the hugely popular Baby Songs video series, but parents of 2- to 5-year-olds, particularly those with a sturdier than average educational bent, will find a lot to love on Early Childhood Classics: Old Favorites with a New Twist. This release rids itself of tiresome attempts to turn performances of simple songs like "The Itsy Bitsy Spider" into minor personal masterpieces and instead injects its de rigueur dose of creativity directly into familiar lyrics. For instance, while there's the usual cow and pig on Old MacDonald's farm, we're also introduced to Henrietta's House, where there's a cat, Zebediah's zoo with its tiger, and the puppy in Pamelina's pet shop. Similarly, instead of the usual "Pat-a-Cake" cliffhanger, where the cake's put in the oven and that's all she wrote, we get to hear the ding-ding-ding when it's done and layer on the frosting. The sequence of songs is repeated instrumentally after Palmer's interpretations to allow for sing-alongs and the dreaming up of more new lyrics--a useful device for caregivers who think like teachers (those who don't, though, can make use of clever movement and activity suggestions in the liner notes). Each song's wordplay and simple rhymes are catchy enough to fall into the can't-fail category when it comes to enhancing vocabulary, phonics, and vocabulary skills, and the surprise lyrics lend themselves nicely to attentive listening. Early Childhood Classics delivers old-fashioned fun in a satisfyingly unsplashy way. --Tammy La Gorce

Album Description

Here is a joyful collection of all time favorite activity songs for young children. Hap Palmer's unique renditions preserve the charm and simplicity of traditional songs while adding new, original lyrics and melodies to extend and enrich the familiar classics.

The simplicity and repetition of these songs guarantee active participation by encouraging children to sing and move with the music. While having fun and participating actively, children develop motor and musical skills and learn about animals, counting, identification of body parts, and phonics. As children sing along, responding to the imagery and humor of the lyrics, reading readiness is also enhanced. Alliteration and rhyme develop a child's ear for the sounds of language - an important pre-reading skill.

These songs are developmentally appropriate for the very young child - infant to 5 years. However, the familiar melodies and contemporary arrangements also elicit surprisingly gusty participation from first and second grade students. A variety of musical styles adds new life to well known songs with swing, blue grass, country, classical, rock, pop, and blues arrangements.

Fifteen songs are presented with vocal interpretation. The sequence is then repeated instrumentally providing opportunities for singing along and creating new lyrics using children's ideas. The instrumental selections also familiarize children with the sounds of a variety of musical instruments including piano, bass, drums, guitar, violin, viola, cello, trumpet, trombone, tuba, French horn, saxophone, flute, English horn, accordion, and a variety of percussion instruments such as conga drums, bougaraboo drum, ouiro, shaker, wood block and tambourine.

The instrumental versions of each song can be used in the following ways:

1. After children have learned words with the vocal version, they can sing along hearing only the music.

2. Children can create their own lyrics and sing the song using their ideas.

3. The music can accompany sessions in movement exploration and creative movement.

Suggestions for activities and variations are not limited to those presented in this guide book. There are endless possibilities awaiting your creative impulse.

Customer Reviews:

Early Childhood Classics - Old Favorites With A New Twist.......2007-05-26

We listen to this CD almost evry day while driving around in the car. My daughter loves singing the songs!!! They are all good. Well worth the money!!

One of the best young children's CDs!.......2006-02-24

My almost 4 year old is a huge Hap Palmer fan, and it's catching on to me. Just listen to one of his CDs, and you'll understand. This one in particular is great. I love how he makes beloved children songs even better. I never thought I'd be just as happy to hear a children's CD as one of my own, but this is so catchy, and it is priceless hearing my young daughter singing along to the words! It's great for her memory skills, remembering and singing to all the songs, and it's great for her learning rhyme and rhythm. The lyrics he adds are sooo fun and cathy and sweet. I love this guy!

Great Kid Tunes.......2006-02-18

I bought this for my daughter, who is two, and my older kids love it as much as she does. Easy to remember lyrics and catchy tunes make this a great cd to listen to.

Great music, great twist.......2005-10-28

If standard kid's tunes play in your house or car all day long, you will love this refreshing cd and your kid's won't miss a beat. I don't understand the 2 star review. If you don't like something, that's fine. But the reviewer's logic is very skewed in that they said it didn't meet their expectations, even though 1) The cd was a gift, and 2) The title of the cd tells you that it's not an album of "to-the-letter" standards. So if you don't like the music or your child doesn't like it, fine. But don't rate it down because you had ridiculous expectations from something you didn't even want or buy. If you are open-minded and enjoy good, fun, music you will love this. There is varied musical accompaniment and Hap sings great and truly seems to feel the music (unlike most performers of children's standards). Of course, the ultimate critic is the child. My daughter LOVES this cd (she's 21 months old now and has been listening to it since 12 months). Again, if you want standard kid songs, you may be disappointed with this because the music and words are different (usually, each song starts in a traditional manner but then non-standard lyrics and music follow). But if you want a twist without leaving the traditional songs altogether, buy this. I don't think you will be disappointed.

A favorite at library storytime.......2005-10-19

I'm a children's librarian in Illinois and this cd has become one I use at almost every storytime. I especially love "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star" because it contains a verse inserted by Hap Palmer which allows me to introduce Shakespeare to the tiniest child. He uses a line from "A Midsummer Night's Dream" -- "silver bow new bent in heaven" to describe the moon. I have entire families singing along, learning a famous quotation painlessly! And it's a beautiful, calming song to use at the end of a storytime. Parents and kids love it!

Average customer rating:

THIS IS ANOTHER GREAT BLACK CROWES ALBUM.
Rock 'N' Roll with Alot of Soul!!!
Not for most listeners
Add a half when it grows on you.
Crucial Crowes Listening

Three Snakes and One Charm
The Black Crowes
Manufacturer: American Recordings
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

Blues Rock | Rock | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

Rock Jam Bands | Jam Bands | Rock | Styles | Music

General | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music

Hard Rock | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music

Southern Rock | Classic Rock | Styles | Music

General | Classic Rock | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Amorica
By Your Side
The Southern Harmony and Musical Companion
Shake Your Money Maker
Live at the Greek

ASIN: B000068FXU
Release Date: 2002-06-11

Tracks:

Under A Mountain
Good Friday
Nebakanezer
One Mirror Too Many
Blackberry
Girl From A Pawnshop
(Only) Halfway To Everywhere
Bring On, Bring On
How Much For Your Wings?
Let Me Share The Ride
Better When You're Not Alone
Evil Eye

Customer Reviews:

THIS IS ANOTHER GREAT BLACK CROWES ALBUM........2007-03-13

I will be writing a review on the legendary album entitled "THREE SNAKES AND ONE CHARM" by one of Rock's greatest bands. I give you one of Georgia's pride and joy's, T-H-E B-L-A-C-K C-R-O-W-E-S. This legendary album was originally released in 1996 on Compact Disc on the American Recordings Records label. As always, if I hear any new additional information concerning this legendary album or the artist, I will edit this review immediately so that you the consumer will get the best informative and most accurate review possible.

THE BLACK CROWES have now been entertaining us since 1990 with their smash albums such as the debut album "$HAKE YOUR MONEY MAKER," the follow-up album "THE SOUTHERN HARMONY AND MUSICAL COMPANION" from 1992 and "AMORICA" from 1994. In reality, all was well in THE BLACK CROWES world, living life to its fullest excesses and having a real good time. This time period was also another good time for THE BLACK CROWES or should I say, Chris Robinson, Rich Robinson, Steve Gorman, Johnny Colt, Marc Ford and Eddie Harsh to head back into the recording studio and record the follow-up album to the the extremely successful "AMORICA" album. After a certain period of time went by, THE BLACK CROWES would emerge from the recording studio with a completed album and hand it in to their American Recordings label. The album would be released and called "THREE SNAKES AND ONE CHARM." This album is really good and does show some life and similarity to their other previous albums. However, "THREE SNAKES AND ONE CHARM" is a little different from the other three albums in a sense that there is a lot more music contained on this album that is a little slower than usual. Despite that, the album still Rocks in more ways than one. In my opinion, "THREE SNAKES AND ONE CHARM" is another fine testament of the musical creativity of two extremely talented brothers and a fine fitting tribute to a great band that is working their way into legendary status.

Now it is time to let the music speak for itself and do all of the talking. This album begins with the incredible Southern Rocker "Under A Mountain," the slow and amazing "Good Friday," the killer Rocker "Nebakanezer," the merciless Rocker "One Mirror Too many," the breathtaking Rocker "Blackberry," the slow beautiful Country Rocker "Girl From A Pawnshop," the groundbreaking Rocker "(Only) Halfway To Everywhere," the slow beautiful acoustic Rocker "Bring On, Bring On," the beautiful acoustic number "How Much For Your Wings?," the fast paced Rocker "Let Me Share The Ride," another great Southern Rocker "Better When You're Not Alone" and the slow Rocker "Evil Eye." May I add the Chris Robinson's blistering lead vocals kick a*s the way a true frontman's singing is suppose to. Also both Rich's and Marc's guitar licks and riffs are played perfectly down to the bone.

Overall, this is a great album worth seeking further into and checking out especially if you are a devout or diehard BLACK CROWES collector. However, I recommend that all newcomers or new beginners to the sound and music of THE BLACK CROWES to buy their first three albums before proceeding in listening to this album.

I would like to highly recommend in purchasing this album to own as a valuable and important part of his or her own personal music collection. This album will definitely prove to stand the test of time and will always be around to be enjoyed, appreciated and cherished by everyone for many years to come, NOW AND FOREVER. This is one great BLACK CROWES album that all devout BLACK CROWES collector's and diehard's would not want to be without.

In closing, THE BLACK CROWES are still burning hot on fire and still playing to sold out concerts the world over. THE BLACK CROWES would still record more great albums and record with one of their greatest idol's ever. Believe it or not, their best is still yet to come. With that in mind, there would be new stories in the BLACK CROWES legend that would still need to be conquered, told and written in new pages and chapter's. But that, my fellow readers and reviewers, you will just have to stay tuned and read further about at a later date. So here's to you Chris, Rich, Steve, Johnny, Marc and Eddie. Thanks for the memories and still more to come. And as the saying goes, "AND THE REST IS ROCK N' ROLL HISTORY," am I wrong. Thanks for reading my review and I hope you enjoyed reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it for your reading pleasure. I also hope that you will read all of my other reviews in the near future when time permits. THE BLACK CROWES RULES. Long Live Rock n' Roll. Rock out always and take it easy. Forever In rock, John L.

Rock 'N' Roll with Alot of Soul!!!.......2005-07-20

Another Great Black Crowes CD!!! This disk is filled with great tracks! "Good Friday, One Mirror Too Many, Blackberry, (Only) Halfway To Everywhere, Bring On Bring On, How Much For Your Wings?, Let Me Share The Ride, Better When You're Not Alone" and the list goes on... Every Track has Soul and filled with Rock 'N' Roll. What other band can do this??? You will not be disappointed with this CD. It is just AWESOME!!!

Not for most listeners.......2005-06-08

I see more copies of this Crowes album in the used CD stores than any other.

The hard core Crowes' cadre may love this album, but most people won't find this one reachable. I'll agree with the other reviewers that the album seems more subdued. If you like the hard rocking sound of the Crowes on the radio, one of the other releases will probably be a better starting place.

Add a half when it grows on you........2005-06-03

Still with their ultimate lineup (C. Robinson, R. Robinson, Marc Ford, Steve Gorman, Eddie Harsch and Johnny Colt) intact after making two masterpieces, the Black Crowes made Three Snakes. As such, the playing on the album is top notch again. The feel of the album is a little less aggressive than Amorica, but there are plenty of rockin tunes.

This seems to be the "grower" in the Crowes catalog, where it takes a while for songs to assert themselves. While that's often a more rewarding thing than the opposite (an album that feels immediately familiar, but lacks longevity), the songs do suffer slightly from a lack of strong hooks and come off a little dry at times. The ballads, such as the pretty Girl From a Pawnshop and odd How Much For Your Wings? break away from the pack easiest and all the songs become rewarding in time. This was the third and last album from the band with this lineup, and during that time noone else in rock and roll was better.

Crucial Crowes Listening.......2005-03-31

OK, so you call yourself a Crowes fan because you like "Remedy" and "Hard To Handle"? Well, dig a little deeper and start with this disc. It's got some absolutely crucial Crowes songs that are standouts in their catalog or in concert. I hate to bash other's reviews but this disc is not overly noisy, it's just a little different- in fact, it's somewhat quiet in many parts. Chris' vocals are top-notch here, and never rambling or over-bearing as he can sometimes be. Overall it's got a vibe of "understanding" to it... something they desperately tried NOT to have with the free-wheeling, bad-assness of "Amorica". Understanding is NOT a bad thing here at all folks, so enjoy the whole disc as one, as it is THE most over-looked in their catalog.

1) Under A Mountain- 10/10 Typical great lead-off song about coming to grips with love and/or sex. Smooth guitars layer a slow steady vibe. Drums rock out nicely behind it all.

2) Good Friday- 10/10 One of my fav Crowes songs of all time. Heard them play this song LIVE on the actual Good Friday in an old church, so maybe I'm partial, but this might be the coolest break-up song ever. But not a wussy break-up point of view either, which is cool.

3) Nebakenezer- 10/10 Cool riff. Great drums. Vox are money. It's LOUD! And it's a bout drugs. What more could you ask for?

4) One Mirror Too Many- 8.5/10 Another drug warning. Looks like the boys are learning from their days of growing beards and dropping out on drugs (not that that was ever too bad for them musically)

5) Blackberry- 8/10 Easy to dismiss this one since it was the single, but a cool song. Funky. Chris' raspy vocals call back to the days of "Sometimes Salvation"

6) Girl From A Pawnshop- 9.5/10 Can almost picture him in a country bar singing this one. Cool story about a girl and a letter and the reality surrounding her while reading it. Ending is stellar.

7) (Only)Halfway To Everywhere- 8/10 Funky. Weird vocal effects. Upbeat. Could have easily ended up on Amorica. Got some horns from the Dirty Dozen helping out.

8) Bring On, Bring On- 8/10 Acoutic heavy. Gospel type chorus. OK on it's own... but sets up the next song rather well, which is...

9) How Much For Your Wings 10/10 Another acoustic tune that gets interrupted monetarily by some drums/ guitar and hand-clapping. Certainly nothing for some readers to moan about. Killer guitar that somehow is uplifting even though it deals with the sadness of loss. Brother Rich helps out on the vocals trading off behind Chris's singing of the verses.

10) Let Me Share The Ride- 7.5/10 Pretty standard road song. Sort of out of place at this point in the disc.

11) Better When You're Not Alone- 9.5/10 Seems like it would have fit perfect behind "Wings". Praises the joys of love and how it makes their world better. Never corny, just honest. Good upbeat ending.

12) Evil Eye- 10/10 Wow... What to say aboiut this song. Lyrics make you re-think you're whole outlook and disposition on love, beliefs, life and the world around you. Piercing guitar on top of some awesome drumming. Lyric: "Do you have in you to even try?" That should also be said for this whole album. Do try it!

OHM: The Early Gurus of Electronic Music

Average customer rating:

excellent but uncomplete
To call it music may be a bit limiting.
A worthwhile collection
OhMyGodHowDreadful
Kid Stockhausen

OHM: The Early Gurus of Electronic Music
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Ellipsis Arts
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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An Anthology of Noise & Electronic Music, Vol. 3: 1952-2004
Audio Culture: Readings in Modern Music
Roxy Music
Profiler - Season 4
Another Day on Earth

ASIN: B00004T0FZ
Release Date: 2000-04-25

Tracks:

Valse Sentimentale - Clara Rockmore
Oraison - Ens D'Ondes De Montreal
Etude Aux Chemins De Fer - Pierre Schaeffer
Williams Mix - John Cage
Klangstudie II - Herbert Eimert/Robert Beyer
Low Speed - Otto Luening
Dripsody - Hugh Le Caine
Forbidden Planet: Main Title - Louis Barron/Bebe Barron
Elektronische Tanzste: Concertando Rubato - Oskar Sala
Poem Electronique - Edgard Varese
Sine Music (A Swarm Of Butterflies Encountered Over The Ocean) - Richard Maxfield
Apocalypse-Part 2 - Tod Dockstader
Kontakte - James Tenney/William Winant
Wireless Fant - Vladimir Ussachevsky
Philomel - Milton Babbitt
Spacecraft - MEV

Tracks:

Cindy Electronium - Raymond Scott
Pendulum Music - Sonic Youth
Bye Bye Butterfly - Pauline Oliveros
Projection Esemplastic For White Noise - Joji Yuasa
Silver Apples Of The Moon, Part 1 - Morton Subotnick
Rainforest Version 1 - David Tudor
Poppy Nogood - Terry Riley
Boat-Woman-Song - Holger Czukay
Music Promenade - Luc Ferrari
Vibrations Composees: Rosace 3 - Francois Bayle
Mutations - Jean-Claude Risset
Hibiki-Hana-Ma - Iannis Xenakis
Map Of 49's Dream The Two Systems Of Eleven Sets Of Galactic Intervals: Drift Study '31/69 c.... - La Monte Young

Tracks:

He Destroyed Her Image - Charles Dodge
Six Fants On A Poem By Thomas Campion: Her Song - Paul Lansky
Appalachian Grove - Laurie Spiegel
En Phase/Hors Phase - Bernard Parmegiani
On The Other Ocean - David Behrman
Stria - John Chowning
Living Sound, Patent Pending Music For Sound-Joined Rooms Series - Maryanne Amacher
Automatic Writing - Robert Ashley
Canti Illuminati - Alvin Curran
Music On A Long Thin Wire - Alvin Lucier
Melange - Klaus Schulze
Before And After Charm (La Notte) - Jon Hassell
Unfamiliar Wind (Leeks Hills) - Brian Eno

Amazon.com

Opening with Clara Rockmore's reworking of Tchaikovsky with the theremin, and finishing with one of Brian Eno's ambient soundscapes, OHM artfully succeeds in its goal of giving a representative (as opposed to the impossible, comprehensive) overview of the first several decades of electronic music. Over 3 discs, 42 compositions, and 96 pages of notes and photos, OHM clearly illustrates the producers' and contributing writers' point that early electronic music is much of the foundation of contemporary music. Herein lies the connective tissue bridging musique concrète, 20th-century classical, electronic experimentation, and the theoretical avant-garde to psychedelia, ambient, dub, techno, electro, and synthpop and the globalization of sound. The groundbreaking uses of loops, sampling, drones, remixes, and cut-and-paste technology are put fully into context. The diversity of music included makes any sort of summation impossible, but that is also the point: electronic music is not really a genre, but an open field of endless possibility. From John Cage's famous "William's Mix" of tape snippets to Karkheinz Stockhausen's electronic orchestral compositions, from David Tudor and Holger Czukay's experiments in unrelated blendings of audio elements to David Behrman's supremely peaceful duet between computers and musicians, the aural renegades on OHM tread where none (save a few of their contemporaries) had gone before. The liner notes convey the incredible amount of hard work and experimentation it took to stitch together many of these pieces in the predigital era. Putting aside the inevitable quibbles about what's missing (much of it due to legal and/or logistical issues), a more complete collection of musical eggheads, eccentrics, and visionaries is hard to imagine. --Carl Hanni

Customer Reviews:

excellent but uncomplete.......2006-11-12

Althought most of the music here is an excellent collection of electronic music history, this 3 CDs lack of the important contribution given by the RAI phonology studios of Milan, Italy in the 50s
(which was bigger than Koln's WDR studios) with Bruno Maderna, Luciano Berio and Luigi Nono.
This is a big mistake. Milans studios were the biggest of europe and produced many important electroacoustic pieces.
If the collection aim to describe faithfully electronic music history, it should include this artists too.

To call it music may be a bit limiting. .......2006-10-24

Some of the tracks on here are "music". That is that they contain all the bits we're trained to experience as music -- melody, etc. Some are not, and the composers would be the first people to tell you that. A lot of these works are reactions to ingrained rules, so they're bound to be jarring.

A more successful way to approach such a broad and varied collection of audio experimentation is to think of it as curated sound. This isn't something to wash the dishes to, or to seduce someone to (although if you did manage to seduce someone with the recordings on this anthology, HOLD ON TO THAT PERSON, because they've got to be a keeper). These are unique sound textures that deserve a close, probably solitary listen, and I think if you're in the right frame of mind, it can be a very rewarding listen.

My main complaint is sequencing: each dicrete piece follows it's own internal logic, so there are more than a couple rough gear changes. However, since each piece is so different, and the collection is so varied, I'm not sure that you could totally escape that.

A worthwhile collection.......2006-01-11

The OHM collection contains some of those ground breaking electronic compositions that have shaped today's styles, from the early electronic instruments of Theremin and Martenot, through Pierre Schaeffer's Music Concrete tape music and the electronic music of Stockhausen and Subotnick, to the mainframe computer output of Risset and Chowning.

It is unfair to mark this collection down due to the production quality and 'musicality' of its contents, to do so would be to staggeringly miss the point of the development of electronic music through the 20th Century. What this collection shows is the ideas behind those at the cutting edge of the genre before many could even conceive of such output. That said it is hard going at points, as experimental music can be.

Highlights for me are no doubt Olivier Messiaen's 'Oraison' on CD 1, David Tudor's 'Rainforest Version 1' on CD 2 and on CD 3 David Behrman's 'On the Other Ocean' and Maryanne Amacher's 'Living sound Patent Pending'.

OhMyGodHowDreadful.......2005-08-15

Ok, this collection is supposed to be early works and, thus not expected to be very sophisticated or polished. But the OHM collection sounds like the first attempt of a spastic cat turned-loose on a Moog keyboard. When it is not boreing, this collection of random and dissonant sounds (I can't call it music) is without any redeeming qualities to make it worth while. Don't get me wrong, I am a long-time fan of Wendy (nie Walter) Carlos and some other real pioneers of electronic music. However, I find that the Ohm collection has no similar qualities and is a major disappointment.

Kid Stockhausen.......2003-01-17

This is required listening for anybody interested in the history of electronic music. Although implicitly aiming for the techno music audience, this audio history is overwhelmingly focused on the classical avant-garde of electro-acoustic composers. The closest you'll get to pop electronica is the Brian Eno track at the end of the third disc. No Kraftwerk, no Moroder, etc. Instead "OHM" manages to point to the continuities between, say, John Cage and artists currently working at the experimental edges of electronica (so-called IDM). It seems to be saying, "You think Kid 606 is visionary? Well check out this Stockhausen track from '59!"

Admittedly, some of the songs are much more interesting to think about than they are to listen to. Some of the early pieces that were made through thosuands of hours of pains-taking tape-splicing could be made today in an afternoon with a digital audio editor and a few effects plug-ins.

It is a beautiful package, containing a 90 page booklet of essays, quotations from the featured artists, and photographs. What all music should be: an education in daring.

The Charm
Average customer rating:

bubba abandons his talent for $$$

Uh?

3-1/2 Stars -- It'll charm ya up for a lil bit

He did it!

Third Time's A Charm!

The Charm
Bubba Sparxxx
Manufacturer: Virgin Records Us
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Deliverance

Dark Days, Bright Nights

Reality Check

The Big Bang

King

ASIN: B000EMGJCC
Release Date: 2006-04-04

Tracks:

Represent
Heat It Up
Claremont Lounge - featuring Killer Mike and Coool Breeez
As The Rim Spins
That Man
The Otherside - featuring Petey Pablo and Sleepy Brown
Ain't Life Grand - featuring Scar
Run Away - featuring Frankie J
Wonderful
Ms. New Booty - featuring Ying Yang Twins and Mr. ColliPark
Hey! (A Lil' Gratitude)

Customer Reviews:

bubba abandons his talent for $$$.......2007-01-03

Any true hiphop head has taken notice of bubba's lyrical skills on his first two albums, which he has essentially left behind on this strictly booty shake release. Now I can't say I blame him, it is after all a business, but in my opinion he is sacrificing his potential to have a long lasting artistic career, which looked so promising as he progressed from dark days to deliverance (and then took 30 steps backwards with this). I only hope he makes/made enough from this release to go back to making meaningful/thoughful tracks...such as warrant.

Uh?.......2006-08-04

Ooh this is so innovative! Cr a p py wi g g e r music that sounds like EVERY FU C KING THING OUT THERE!!! This loser is the biggest wi g g e r since Fred Durst and Eminem! I mean come on how could this get a 3.5 average?! Stuff by D4L, Chingy, and 50 Cent get low averages so why can't this?! "Ms. New Booty" has to be the most unoriginal song out there and the beat in "Heat it Up" is super annoying. This guys voice just sounds so tired and bored! This is music for stupid people and no one else. If you're smart you would listen to a band like Queensryche or Dream Theater that rocks, not this sh i t!

3-1/2 Stars -- It'll charm ya up for a lil bit.......2006-07-06

Well Bubba Sparxxx has managed to churn out some good stuff in the past, the problem was that it either had only good beats like on Dark Days, Bright Nights or good lyrics on his second album Deliverance. After not having not so good sells with the latter album he hopes the third times the "Charm" here.

Thankfullly with you don't get the usual guest heavy, 15+ track album that last over 70 minutes when artist release their third album. The album opens up nicely with Represent where Bubba talks about where he's from and all. Bubba manages to take you back to his good ole days from deliverance on "As The Rim Spins". The guest appearances that are on here are on key like Killer Mike and Cool Breeze's verses ("Claremont Lounge"). Frankie J does his thing singing on the chorus to "Run Away" and ditto Sleepy Brown on "The Otherside" with M.I.A. Peety Pablo teaming up with Bubba Sparxxx to drop some lines.

There are ups and downs with party joints produced by Mr. Collipark on "Ms. New Booty" which is ovverated especially since the music sounds exactly like David Banner's "Play", and the mellow laidback beat of "Heat It Up". Unlike others I was dissapointed with Timbalands production "Hey! (A Lil' Gratitude)" Also this album seems a little to popish and radio friendly compared with his past stuff. Sales wise this album is Bubba's best which would convince you to buy it but I suggest you check out Delivarance before trying to "charm" yourself.

He did it!.......2006-06-30

Fire, 1 flame and 10 torches... What else can I say? In the words of Bubba, "I don't know no other way of saying it, I don't speak no other languages ..."

Nice variety ... especially "Aint Life Grand ..." I think we all can relate to this. This is a nice template on what being an artist is suppose to be ... I don't know who's doing his videos, but the right director can do a lot with this backdrop. The background is tight, music rhythmic and provides a nice tempo for some banging videos like Dr. Dre did with the Formal Dance scenes a few years ago. I hope they treat Bubba right on this one because you can really feel the work that went into this. Simple put, on point.

Third Time's A Charm!.......2006-06-18

*Four and a half stars* I have been a big Bubba Sparxx fan since his first release, "Dark Day, Bright Nights". His second album "Deliverance" was a big step up from that, and just an amazing album altogether. The new album "The Charm" is definitely trying to hit the mainstream crowd (After his first two stellar albums failed to sell, I can't blame him for this direction). Though this album lacks the creativity of "Deliverance", Bubba is able to make an especially good album with a different sound, that can please both fans old and new.
The album is only eleven tracks deep which is not alot, but in this case, Quality is more important than Quantity. This is really one of those cd's where every song is good, and there's nothing you want to skip through. The album also contains no skits or interludes (which are annoying, pointless, and interfere with the flow of the music). And as much as Timbaland And Bubba work so well together, I love the new production on the album. Big Standouts on this cd are "The Other Side" With Sleepy Brown, "Run Away" Feat. Frankie J, and "Heat It Up" with production from Collipark, who also did "Ms. New Booty". Overall, this is a really good cd that differ's in style from that of "Deliverance", but also shine's in Bubba's ability to make it sound so good.

Marilyn Hotchkiss Ballroom Dancing & Charm School

Average customer rating:

Some fun dance tunes
I couldn't give this away if I wanted to

Marilyn Hotchkiss Ballroom Dancing & Charm School
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Milan Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Marilyn Hotchkiss' Ballroom Dancing & Charm School
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ASIN: B000EGEJY8
Release Date: 2006-03-21

Tracks:

Frank Cries - Mark Adler
Somewhere Over The Rainbow - Kaulana Kanekoa & Vince Esquire
Zip Gun Bop - Royal Crown Revue
Bella Luna - Robert J. Walsh
Cha Cha Charlie - Mel Young
Ciribiribin - Mark Adler
Joyous Shades Of Brilliant Magenta/Hey Bread Man - Mark Adler
Begin The Beguine - Mark Adler
Steves Story - Mark Adler
Pedro Goes To Town - Mel Young
Dr. Bones - Cherry Poppin Daddies
Ritas Clothes - Mark Adler
Getting Sentimental Over You - Mark Adler
Scattering The Ashes - Mark Adler
Moonbeams - Bill Le Blanc & Robert J. Walsh
Swing Tango - Moody Rivers
Baile Fresco - Scott Nickoley & Ronald Dunlap
Frank & Meredith - Mark Adler
On The Sunny Side Of The Street - Louis Armstrong & His Orchestra

Album Description

The film's plot revolves around the characters' love of ballroom dancing and the music that fills their lies with joy and emotion. This soundtrack allows the listener to relive these musical moments time and time again. The soundtrack combines Mark Adler's evocative score with classic Ballroom selections including Begin the Beguine and Hop Into Lindy, as well songs by the Royal Crown Review, Louis Armstrong and cherry Poppin' Daddies.

Customer Reviews:

Some fun dance tunes.......2007-05-10

Marilyn Hotchkiss Ballroom Dancing & Charm School is a sweet and wonderful movie. It is about events in and around a dance school. It is NOT about the dancing or the music. The music is wonderful, and party hosts and dance DJs will find that some of it is fun for dancing.

Here are the titles, durations, suggested dance, and listed artist/performer.

Frank cries, 1:27, no dance suggested, Mark Adler
Somewhere over the rainbow, 4:20, no dance suggested, Kaulana Kanekoa & Vince Esquire
Zip gun bop, 3:30, Jive, Royal Crown Revue
Bella Luna, 2:47, Foxtrot, Robert J. Walsh
Cha Cha Charlie, 2:08, Cha cha, Mel Young
Ciribiribin, 1:48, Waltz, Warren Leuning
Joyous shades of brilliant magenta, hey bread man 3:40, no dance suggested, Mark Adler
Begin the beguine, 3:16, Foxtrot, Dan Higgins
Steve's story 5:51, no dance suggested, Mark Adler
Pedro goes to town, 2:54, Cha cha, Mel Young
Dr. Bones, 3:35, Jive, Cherry Poppin' Daddies
Rita's clothes 1:51, no dance suggested, Mark Adler
Getting sentimental over you, 3:37, Foxtrot, Charlie Loper
Scattering the ashes 2:34, no dance suggested, Mark Adler
Moonbeams, 3:13, Foxtrot, Bill Le Blanc & Robert J. Walsh
Swing tango, 2:03, Tango, Moody Rivers
Baile fresco, 2:52, Mambo, Scott Nickoley & Ronald Dunlap
Frank & Meredith 3:44, no dance suggested, Mark Adler
On the sunny side of the street, 3:21, Foxtrot, Louis Armstrong

I couldn't give this away if I wanted to.......2006-10-06

I couldn't believe it. I couldn't put this CD down even when I wanted to. I couldn't give this thing away, even to my beloved co-workers. This is a must have. I seriously love this CD so much that sometimes I forget I have it until I stick my hand in my purse and find it with me and then it makes me smile.

Average customer rating:

diverging views
Kozena?
A Recital par excellence
Thrilling Talent Showcased in Somewhat Erratic Program
An ideal voice

Songs: Magdalena Kozena
Magdalena Kozena , Jiri Barta , Benjamin Britten , Maurice Ravel , Ottorino Respighi , Erwin (Ervin) Schulhoff , Dmitry Shostakovich , Paul Edmund-Davies , Malcolm Martineau , and Christoph Henschel
Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

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Lamento
Magdalena Kozená - Love Songs (Dvorak, Janacek, Martinu)
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French Arias
Cecilia Bartoli ~ Opera Proibita (Handel · Scarlatti · Caldara) / Les Musiciens du Louvre · Minkowski

ASIN: B0001BUC06
Release Date: 2004-07-13

Tracks:

Nahandove
Aoua!
It Is Nice
To A Critic
The Awakening Of Spring
Descendants
Misunderstanding
Kreutzer-Sonate
The Sunset
Across The Lake Sang Violins
Close Your Eyes
Do You Know
A Cradle Song
The Highland Balou
Sephestia's Lullaby
A Charm
The Nurse's Song

Amazon.com

By now, fans of this mezzo probably have realized that she could sing the telephone directory and make it sound both beautiful and meaningful. This CD is made up of music by Respighi, Ravel, Britten, Schulhoff and Shostakovich: in other words, songs in five languages from five countries. Unlike most song recital CDs, variety is also supplied by the accompaniments. The Ravel songs are backed up by flute, cello and piano, while the Schulhoff selections feature violin and piano, the Shostakovich and Britten are for piano alone, and the Respighi includes a string quartet. The whole CD is fascinating, but the lengthy Respighi cantata "Il tramonto" ("The Sunset," to a poem by Shelly) is a sensational centerpiece: just lovely, with hints of Straussian and Wagnerian harmonies. The Ravel songs are by turns gentle, wild/angry and then gentle again, the Shostakovich ones are witty satires, the Schulhoff songs are moody, and the Britten, rarely recorded, is strangely evocative. Kozena and the instrumentalists are ideal. --Robert Levine

Customer Reviews:

diverging views.......2007-03-27

Reviews are all over the map on this one. I got this disc to hear Kozena sing Ravel's Chansons Madecasses and to sample her Shostakovich. The Ravel is approached from a distance. It definitely lacks the atmospheric effluence of Jessye Norman's singing on her very early recording of it. It's a little dry here. The Shostakovich fares excellently with a crisp, taut singing dynamic that remains, to its credit, unafraid of vocal color. Great approach for Shostakovich's devlish songs that are wickedly difficult to possess. Kozena mostly succeeds there. (Also check out the excellent new series of Shostakovich's Complete Songs on Delos. Satires is on vol.IV, sung by Victoria Evtodieva. The complete collection is a revelation!) The Respighi's a fine piece classic in its proportions, and Kozena sings effectively but not completely freely. Britten's Charm of Lullabies gets an intelligent and modern, thoughtful treatment - the kind of treatment that seems Kozena's great virtue. She's bright and gifted, clearly going places and deserving to. For me, her singing seems inclined to substitute an idea about vocalism and a patina of involvement for the real thing - effective, but not always free. Still, it's amply satisfying to come across artists cooly wielding their careers, and their art, with supple intelligence and highly discerning results. Kozena is such an artist, and this is a fine disc of her art.

Kozena?.......2006-01-04

Over the last few years I have greatly enjoyed Kozena's recordings of the baroque repertoire. Even when the accompaniment was less than stellar, take McCreesh in his attack on Bach's Saint Matthew Passion, this great young soprano gave performances that matched or even surpassed the standards in the catalog. As such, I was highly interested in what Kozena would do in the realm of chamber music. I am sorry, but I must be living on another planet than my fellow reviewers.

The fist thing that one strikes is the soprano's poor diction. Give me a break!
Compare e.g. the Ravel to such standards as De Los Angeles or Berganza or Mesple.
This should make it also clear that the whole approach to phrasing and the Teutonic approach to emotional outburst is at complete odds with the vernacular.

The Britten was of similar quality. With the availability of a version recorded with the direct input of the composer, I often had difficulty even recognizing some of the songs. While the Shostakovich was definitely better and the Respighi was enjoyable, these two were insufficient to save this recital in its entirety. Having been steeped in Europe in song recitals by the Likes of Ameling, Ludwig, Fassbaender, Prei and Fischer-Dieskau I am truly amazed by the positive reviews of my fellow reviewers.

While the quality of the accompaniment and recording are excellent, I consider this a courageous yet premature disc.

A Recital par excellence.......2005-05-11

Magdalena Kozená is a formidable artist. Not only is she beautiful of voice and figure, she possesses an intelligence for programming and skill with varied musical styles and languages that places her in a category all her own. By electing to present a repertoire of twentieth century songs as far ranging as these by Ravel, Britten, Resphigi, Shostakovich and Schulhoff
she ably demonstrates that she has the vocal skills and sensitivity to make each of these composers' lesser known works convincing.

Kozená vocal lustre is warm and pliable and she is able to ascend the scale with ease and without the too often heard breaks in register. She also chooses her collaborators well, from piano alone to individual instruments to string quartet ensemble: with each she is at one in interpretation and spirit.

Rarely have Britten's 'Charm of Lullabies' felt so effortless. And with the same ease she finds the right 'French' sound for the Ravel and the biting crispness for the Shostakovich. Yet as fine s are all of the segments of this CD are, the highlight is the relatively unknown Ottorino Resphigi 'Il tramonto' with the glowing realization of 'The Sunset' that Kozená offers.

We are fortunate to be living in an age where the mezzo soprano artists are abundant (Susan Graham, Lorraine Hunt Lieberson, Sarah Connolly, Anne Sophie von Otter, to name but a few). Coupled with the rise in popularity of countertenors we are afforded more opportunities than ever to hear new repertoire for a particular timbre of voice than ever before. Magdalena Kozená is a worthy member of this elite group of artists. Highly recommendeded. Grady Harp, May 05

Thrilling Talent Showcased in Somewhat Erratic Program.......2004-11-05

Mezzo-soprano Magdalena Kozena has a lovely, full voice that runs effortlessly up into the soprano range. Barely in her thirties with a camera-ready face, she is also the subject of a great amount of publicity in the classical world, which is luckily justified thanks to her pure and graceful vocal power. I have yet to see her sing live, but if this recording is any indication, she must be quite theatrically charismatic in performance. Granted there are far more highs than lows, I just wish her selection of material on this recording were as immaculate.

Ambitiously, Kozena paints a musical portrait of the first half of the 20th century by performing song cycles from five disparate composers - Ravel, Shostakovich, Respigi, Schulhoff and Britten - in five different languages. The disc opens unpromisingly with Ravel's "Chansons madecasses", which suffers from an almost too languid quality with a melancholy cello and minor piano chords masking some particularly jarring tones. At certain moments, Schulhoff's "Drei Stimmungsbilder" feels like "Sturm und Drang", but Kozena saves this cycle with her impressive sense of drama and vocal beauty. Shostakovich's "Satires" is an even better showcase at displaying her remarkable dexterity in alternating the embittered tone of Sasha Chorny's verses with an almost playful effervescence. Britten's "A Charm of Lullabies" is so unlike anything else he has written that it is nothing short of a revelation for both composer and singer. His familiar discordant tones are there, especially with the aggressive piano on "Sephestia's Lullaby" and her stern demands for "Quiet!" on "A charm", but so is an intimate sense of atmosphere throughout. Of all the selections, my personal favorite has to be Respighi's lyrical poem "Il tramonto", which really captures her dramatic flair in an especially intimate musical setting propelled by a swooning string quartet. This recording is well worth getting to hear a talent as rich as Kozena's. I only hope her program next time can provide as compelling a match.

An ideal voice.......2004-09-16

The first reviewer's rating does not do justice to Ms.Kozena's latest release. He claims that she's taken on some sort of quest for perfectly articulated singing, which I simply do not believe is the case. The true question is does her practically perfect articulation in any way interfere in our enjoyment of the music? The answer - definitely not! It's a set of wonderful performances from beginning to end. Kozena has the sort of voice on disc (and much credit should be given to the recording engineers for this as well) that one can listen to repeatedly without it grating or wearing on us. My personal favorite is the Resphigi, which DG rightly allowed Gramophone Magazine to have on its sampler disc a few months back.
MK is undoubtably one of DG's premiere artists at the moment, and rightly so. Every label needs its Joshua Bells, Yo Yo Mas and Andrea Bocellis in order to make ends meet and afford to finance the special projects that don't get all the attention. We should be thankful to have in MK an artist who is not only bankable, but creates beautiful work for us to enjoy.

This is one of the best classical vocal recordings of the year!

Average customer rating:

Even if you don't like synthesizers
Classic
REALLY Alt Country
this album charmed me senseless
Yaz heads West

The Charm of the Highway Strip
Magnetic Fields
Manufacturer: Merge Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B0000019MY
Release Date: 1994-04-18

Tracks:

Lonely Highway
Long Vermont Roads
Born On A Train
I Have The Moon
Two Characters In Search Of A Country Song
Crowd Of Drifters
Fear Of Trains
When The Open Road Is Closing In
Sunset City
Dust Bowl

Amazon.com

Sweet and sour, incurably romantic, and deeply misanthropic, Magnetic Fields' mastermind Stephin Merritt is a one-of-a-kind voice in modern lo-fi pop. This 1994 outing is a bit of a departure, with Merritt taking his trademark ABBA-styled Casio-pop for a spin in the country--literally. Awash in lush, Nashville-ready production, songs like the doleful "Lonely Highway" (which encompasses snatches of the Lee Hazelwood classic "Jackson") and "Born on a Train" are nothing short of thrilling. But much of this particular stretch of the Fields is lacking in charm, since Merritt's wry stance chafes a bit too hard against the guileless melodies. Completists may feel compelled to take a ride, but novices should probably stick to the more urbane journeys offered by Holiday and Distant Plastic Trees. --David Sprague

Customer Reviews:

Even if you don't like synthesizers.......2005-09-18

This is a great album, and I won't add anything to what's already been said. I just thought I'd let those who don't much like keyboards know that this is still a totally worthwhile purchase. I'd thought of trying the magnetic fields for a while but never did because I didn't think I'd like the keyboard sound that everyone talks about. They treat the keyboards so much, and warp the sound to make it so it really doesn't make a difference. The songs are strong, and I think he makes sure to never sound cheezy on the keyboard (maybe once.) Anyway the songs are so good that the way it's played doesn't matter. Plus, the keyboards really do sound very good for the most part, and serve the songs well. Guitar fanatics, give this one a try, it's an excellent piece of music.

Classic.......2005-03-18

I first heard this album about eight years ago, and I have listened to it several times a month since. It just doesn't get old--the more I hear it, the more remarkable it is. Many people have commented on Merritt's eclectic instrumentation, which is indeed striking. But the really fantastic thing about his music is just how great he is at turning out a tune. The instrumentations are novel, but not novelties, and the tight melodies have the charm and stay-in-your-headness of folk tunes. Stephin Merritt is just so damned smart--and not in a look-at-me-I'm-so-deep or hipster way, but in the understated, constant, prolific manner that makes for lasting songwriting. His lyrics are also smart and moving, even when, as with the 69 Love Songs trio, he insists on claiming they're ironic or meta. He's a master at wry, pithy little lines that stick with you a lot more strongly than most of the abstract, self-congratulatory crap that passes for poetry these days.

I've listened to each Magnetic Fields album several times over--I'm completely addicted to them, in fact--and while there's not a bad one in the bunch, Charm of the Highway Strip does stand out as the most consistently fantastic and aesthetically unified project. Give this album a try. You won't regret it-none of the many people I've forced this on have.

REALLY Alt Country.......2004-09-25

I'm in a Magnetic Fields month, or maybe a Magnetic Fields six months, who knows? Haven't dipped into 69 Love Songs, yet. And that's probably a six month project itself. But of I, The Wayward Bus/Plastic Trees, and Charm of the Highway Strip, Charm is my current favorite. Like the work of Handsome Family, Giant Sand, and Hank Dogs, this country is not going to be crashing into the mainstream any time soon. Made up of equal parts electronic, synth mixes, cello, and something that sounds like a harpsichord (personally I hear more Phil Spector than Abba in the music), every one of these nine vocal songs -- the tenth, Dust Bowl, is an instrumental that can be skipped -- trades on the classic country themes of trains and highways. Only in Merritt's hand they are neither appealing nor romantic, but obsessions that promise escape and deliver only more pain and loneliness. Which, of course, is exactly what defines Merritt. Lonely Highway, with its references to Jackson, might be the fate that awaited Lee and Nancy, Johnny and June, after they got married in that "fever hotter than a pepper sprout." My two current favorites are I Have the Moon (though written eight years or so earlier, it's what Drusilla might have sung to Spike on Buffy after he became human) and Fear of Trains, where Merritt joins the Ramones in having the KKK take someone away, in this case the history of a Native American girl. Next week the favorites are likely to be different. What's certain is that Charm of the Highway Strip as a whole is going to be a very long-term favorite.

this album charmed me senseless.......2004-01-13

Seriously, if you are a magnetic fields fan, BUY THIS. You may not prefer the more dark, country, sound of this album as opposed to the often springy 69 love songs, but i guarantee you, there is no way not to fall in love with this album. By my second listen, this album was already sacred to me, and right now it is sitting in its case after my last spurt of listenings, waiting patiently until the time is right for me to take it out again. My nightmare would be to overplay this album. Stephen Merrit's low voice will make you feel lonely as he sings of a girl's fear of trains, or a lonesome highway, but at the same time he soothes you, in making you too feel like an explorer on some vast, endless highway. The songs on this album make you feel that while you may be lonely, it's an almost noble thing to be.

Yaz heads West.......2003-07-25

Could it possibly be the first electronic country record ever? It is Yaz meets the American West. Complete with cold chilly sometimes bouncy beats, Stephen Merritt croons of trains, lost lovers and the open road. This record is nothing short of a masterpiece concept album.

Add to the synth beats a synthesizer banjo, guitars and that familiar baritone croon to get that real country feel. It is at times sad and sometimes funny. Listen to the story about a woman who is effected by the trains in her life "Fear of Trains". The irony is thick, clever and the characters are always interesting.

A must have for any collection!

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