Vol. 9

Amazon.com
One of the few remaining vital areas of church music composition is the Anglican service, particularly music for the Psalms. And one of the most artful composers of Anglican chant is Barry Ferguson, Organist and Master of the Choristers at Rochester Cathedral. Three of his compositions are performed on this program, in settings of Psalms 44, 45, and 64. They are among the most beautiful in the repertoire--and, as you might expect, are flawlessly performed here by the men and boys of Rochester. Also among the 14 featured Psalms are several other settings by former or current cathedral organists, including Robert Ashfield, Stanley Vann, S.S. Wesley, and Sydney Nicholson. Rochester Cathedral Choir is unquestionably one of England's finest ensembles--with exceptional blend and balance, and clear, accurate, confident trebles--and this recording is one of the best in the series. --David Vernier

Vol. 9,Psalms of David,Priory Records (UK),Classical Collections-Artist Desc.

Average customer rating: Same quality as always Not any where near the 1st and 2nd A weak link in a strong chain And the tradition continues...

Buddha Bar, Vol. 9 Various Artists Manufacturer: George V (Imports) ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Techno | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music Similar Items: Huvafen Fushi Maldives: Mixed by Ravin Buddha Bar, Vol. 8 Claude Challe Presents: Just Good Music Mixed by Jean Marc Challe 10 Years of Buddha Bar Buddhattitude ASIN: B000MRA83K Release Date: 2007-05-08

Tracks:

1. Sospiro - Bardo State
2. Flight BA0247 - Mystic Diversions
3. Sleep - Amanaska
4. Yes Boss - Hess Is More
5. Koop Island Blues
6. Mongolia on the Line - Eccodek
7. Wood Street
8. Heart Beat of Life - Existence
9. Essence of Our Origins - The Lushlife Project
10. Astradeni - Michalis Koumbios
11. Iceflowers - Asheni,
12. I Know Jayne
13. Sunday - Nikonn
14. Fragment Two... the First Picture - Kenneth Bager, Julee Cruise
15. Bugu Jazz - Burhan al

Tracks:

1. Mrs Daisy May
2. Pila - Cosmic Orient
3. Djinns [Trentem Remix] - Djuma Soundsystem
4. As the Day Breaks [Montreal Remix] - Grant Lee Phillips, Carmen Rizzo
5. Daydream - Massivan
6. Africa [Quicksound/Alain Vinet Remix] - Cirque du Soleil
7. Roots 4 Acid
8. Last Chance - Passion of Percussion
9. Machete - Novalima
10. Chambermaid Swing - Parov Stelar
11. Choban in Space - O.M.F.O.
12. Amor Que Se Baila - Otros Aires
13. Gypsy Majik [Gypsy Lounge Vocal Remix]
14. Loneliness [Chill House Mix] - Blank & Jones
15. Indusufi - Bahramji,
16. Karma Busta Rhythm - DJ Ravin,

Album Description

DJ RAVIN returns to head up Buddha Bar 9. The theme this time is the English Springtime, to pave the way for the new Buddha Bar club opening in London later this year. A breathtaking, fresh and sun kissed selection, with surprising titles coming from places like Greece and Eastern European countries and also from Australia.

Album Details

2007 Ninth Volume of this Most Popular of Lounge Series, Celebrating the Opening in September 2007 of Buddha-bar London, Just Two Steps Away from the Infamous Waterloo Bridge. This Breathtakingly Fresh, Sun-kissed Selection by Ravin Includes Surprising Titles from Places Like Greece and Eastern European Countries as Well as Australia...a Renewal of the Lounge Music World! "Buddha-bar 9" Follows in the Footsteps of Its Predecessors, Remaining as Light and Groundbreaking as Ever with Exclusive, Outstanding Tracks that Definitely Emerge as Genre References. Included in this Breath is the Amazing "Koop Island Blues" by Koop, but also Hess with "Yes Boss". To Quote Ravin's Compilation Production...fasten Your Seat Belt!

Customer Reviews:

Same quality as always.......2007-06-27

I always find it interesting when people pan these albums, I mean seriously even if it's not your favorite it should get a minimum of 3 stars just for the quality of the music and honestly how can you know in one day if you are going to like it over all. Good music takes time to settle in and establish itself, if you want disposable pop, you are in the wrong place. 1 star would mean a terrible album and this is not that from any angle, like it or not the musicians are all top notch. That being said, this is exactly like versions 1-8 before it, so chances are if you like them you will grow to like this. You may prefer others, but they are all very similar. This one has some hauntingly beautiful music and some thumping chill burners. It's a very good selection for the buddha bar family. Highly recommended although not at $64, you can download it for much less.

Not any where near the 1st and 2nd.......2007-05-26

I get so excited when the new Buddha Bar CD's come out and rush to get them as fast as possible. This time and the last few hasn't been as deep and strong as the ones in the past. Still a nice collection of unique music but a bit of dissapointment for me.

A weak link in a strong chain.......2007-05-08

The Buddha-bar series is some of the greatest music we enjoy.
I never write reviews, until now.
Sorry to say, buddha bar 9 is the most dissappointing in the series.
Go back to BB8,7,6,4,2,1. Buddha Bar Nature DVD is excellent.

And the tradition continues..........2007-04-20

Ravin continues to amaze me as a DJ starting with his early days on the George V record label. His style continues to evolve from one album to the next and he has delivered yet again. Though Buddha Bar III is still my all time favorite out of the previous 8 albums, I can see myself making this one a close second. Sophisticated mixes with delicate layers laid with artistic flair that only a true artisan can enamor. This series has gathered a lot of fame over the years, and I am really glad that Buddha Bar IX is here to keep that flame alive. Buy this album without an apprehension...pure sonic bliss.

Average customer rating: FABULOUS the best Costes CD since #6 Back on track Some of the best lounge music I've heard! One of the better ones

Hotel Costes, Vol. 9 Stéphane Pompougnac Manufacturer: Pschent Music ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Trip-Hop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Compilations | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music | Ambient | Dance Pop | Disco | Drum & Bass | Electronica | Freestyle | Techno-House | Trance | Trip Hop General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | R&B | Styles | Music General | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music Dance & DJ | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: Hotel Costes, Vol. 8 Hotel Costes, Vol. 7 Hotel Costes, Vol. 2: La Suite Hotel Costes, Vol. 3: Etage 3 Hotel Costes, Vol. 6 ASIN: B000GUJY74 Release Date: 2006-10-02

Tracks:

1. The Ballad Of Sacco And Vanzetti - Stephane Pompougnac
2. No One In This World - Neobe Adani Wolf
3. All I Want - Jehro
4. Hostel Costes - One-Ohm/Bruno
5. Emotional Rescue (2 Many Beats Remix) - Freedom Due
6. Different - Gotan Project
7. Con Mi Sombra - S-Tone Inc
8. Kiss Me Twice - Parov Stelar
9. You Ain't Really Down (Jazznova'S Hey Baby Remix) - Status IV
10. Little White Roses (With Todd Ivy) - Paul & Price
11. Free For All (Soudstream Remix) - Rythmn & Sound
12. Bluebird - One Self
13. Et Ecoute Ces Choses - Rouge Rouge
14. Demain Matin - Djako
15. Womb - Niko
16. Belle - Alif Tree

Album Details

The Ninth Volume of Compiled Music by Parisian Tastemaker Stéphane Pompougnac Once Again Offers an Impeccable and Intimate Mix of Exclusive Tracks that Recreate the Unique Spirit of the Hôtel Costes.

Customer Reviews:

FABULOUS.......2007-04-21

This album is so very fabulous - great for parties. The more you listen, the more you'll love it. Reminiscent of early Pompougnac - thankfully!

the best Costes CD since #6.......2007-03-24

With this mix Pompougnac goes back to the roots and re-introduces a richer Paris lounge flair, abandoning the more disco-hipster types of rhythms and themes. This may be in response to an exploding market of global lounge music from the frequent flyer series to the destination lounge sets. The album reestablishes Pompougnac as one of the original godfathers of lounge, his picks and his mixing are unique and impeccable. A great album.

Back on track.......2007-01-28

I have all the Costes series, so I guess I'm in a position to compare. I was quite disappointed with vols 6 & 7, so nearly didn't bother with vol 8, but in the end was glad I did. Vol 9 shows that the series is now securely back on track and I agree with a previous reviewer that this is almost on par with Etage 3. Definately worth a listen if you have enjoyed this series of albums at all.

Some of the best lounge music I've heard!.......2007-01-19

There is only one track I'm not excited about and about six that are among my favorites of all time. (The least favorite track is Emotional Rescue, though my wife loves it. My favorite track is One.) This album is really great, very easy to listen to. It inspired me to pick up other music from Stephane Pompougnac, which is also good, but this one is my favorite.

If you like this type of music, you might also consider albums from Monsieur Claude, or at a distant third, possibly Erotic Lounge or even Bar Grooves.

One of the better ones.......2007-01-11

I have been a fan of the Hotel Costes series since I heard Vol 3. I now have them all. Some are definitely better than others and some (like vol 8) are not really worth listening to.

This one is quite good. It definitely takes about 3 listens before it grows on you. When it does, you will listen for a long time. Check out track 7, it's amazing. Then pay attention to 2, 8 & 11.

Average customer rating: Good cd

Radio Disney Jams, Vol. 9 Various Artists Manufacturer: Disney ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Children's Music | Styles | Music Disney | Children's Music | Styles | Music Disney Records | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music $9.99 and Under | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music $9.99 and Under | Prices | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Disneymania, Vol. 5 Radio Disney Jams, Vol. 8 Radio Disney: Party Jams Jump In! Hannah Montana 2: Meet Miley Cyrus ASIN: B000MCID6Y Release Date: 2007-03-13

Tracks:

1. If We Were a Movie - Hannah Montana
2. Bad Day - Daniel Powter
3. Come Back to Me - Vanessa Hudgens
4. Life Is a Highway - Rascal Flatts
5. Strut - The Cheetah Girls
6. Right Where You Want Me (Radio Disney Edit) - Jesse McCartney
7. Unwritten - Natasha Bedingfield
8. I Could Get Used to This - Everlife
9. Dance With Me - Drew Seeley
10. Cool - Gwen Stefani
11. Vertical - T-Squad
12. Chemicals React - Aly & AM
13. Wake Up - Hilary Duff
14. Beverly Hills (Radio Disney Edit) - Weezer
15. Start of Something New (LIVE) - Cast of High School Musical

Tracks:

1. Best of Both Worlds - Hannah Montana
2. Chemicals React - Aly & AJ
3. Vertical - T-Squad
4. Route 66 - The Cheetah Girls
5. Find Yourself in You - Everlife

Amazon.com

It's getting harder and harder to distinguish Radio Disney Jams from non-kid releases. Which is not to say the masterminds of this consistently popular series have scuttled their mission to consider kids first--only that they've gotten very, very smart about assembling discs that satisfy a universal appetite for playful pop. Consider the cross-generational gems they've laid out this time: Daniel Powter's "Bad Day," Rascal Flatt's "Life Is a Highway," and Natahsa Bedingfield's "Unwritten" round out such kid-centric but extremely digestable nuggets as the High School Musical cast's "Start of Something New" and Hannah Montana's "If We Were a Movie." There are moments when the producers' motives seem suspect--did they throw on that T-Squad track not because it's a hit but because they want to call attention to an up-and-coming Disney act?--but overall 9 is a shrewd step in the right direction for the series. The days of "The Hampster Dance Song," mercifully, appear to be done. --Tammy La Gorce

Customer Reviews:

Good.......2007-03-26

I do not actually have this CD but I have some albums with songs on it so here are some of the reviews for songs I know from it

Dance With Me-Drew Seely: his voice was blended in with Zac Efrons from HSM he is a very good singer
Best Of Both Worlds-Hannah Montana: a catchy beat
If We Were A Movie-Hannah Montana: love this song it is great to dance to
Strut-The Cheetah Girls: this song is song good
Route 66: great song for long car journeys

cd.......2007-03-24

I just love this cd it has lots of amazing singers on it .

Average customer rating: A Man and His Art - Magnificently Captured What can you say - it's Segovia! EVERYBODY KNOWS Immortal guitar WOW

Art of Segovia Andres Segovia Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Segovia, Andrés | ( S ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music Deutsche Grammophon: Music | Specialty Stores | Music More Titles at Least 20% Off | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Segovia, Andrés | ( S ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Segovia, Andrés | ( S ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Instrumental | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Similar Items: Essential Guitar: 33 Guitar Masterpieces The Segovia Collection 300 Years of Guitar Masterpieces The Best of Andrés Segovia: The Millennium Collection Spanish Guitar Music ASIN: B00006B66L Release Date: 2002-10-08

Tracks:

1. Andante
2. Andantino
3. Lento
4. Romance De Los Pinos
5. Madronos
6. Serenata Burlesca
7. Variations On A Theme From Mozart's 'The Magic Flute'
8. Mesto E Calmo
9. Theme, Variations & Finale
10. Cancion Mexicana No.X
11. Sevillana, Op.29
12. Sarabanda
13. Capriccio Diabolico, Op.85
14. Tonadilla For Guitar On The Name Of Andres Segovia
15. No.1 In E Minor
16. No.3 In A Minor
17. Guitarreo
18. Segovia, Op.29

Tracks:

1. If My Complaints
2. Now, O Now I Need Must Part
3. Sarabande
4. 1. Prelude (Transposed In D Major)
5. 4. Tempo Di Bourree
6. Courante
7. 3. Gavotte En Rondeau
8. Aria E Corrente
9. Moderato
10. Menuet In G Major
11. Andantino Variato
12. No.7 In A Major
13. 2. Canzonetta
14. 2. Quasi Lento (Preludio)
15. 1. Andantino Poco Allegretto (Allegretto)
16. 2. Il Vecchio Castello
17. Allegretto
18. Tres Calme Et Doucement Expressif
19. No.4 In E Flat Minor
20. 5. Asturias. Leyenda - Preludio
21. 7. Zambra Granadina
22. Estudio Sin Luz
23. Allegro Con Brio

Amazon.com

DG has put together a fascinating compilation of Segovia's art that reminds us what a protean figure he was. Segovia single-handedly put the instrument on the map by making classical guitar concerts popular events, broadening the instrument's repertory through commissions and transcriptions, and convincing even doubters that it could be a vehicle for serious music. He's heard here in brief pieces recorded between 1952 and 1969. Even in those made when he was well into his 70s, his fingers remain nimble and interpretations lively. Listening straight through, one hears many all-time Segovia favorites as Turina's Sevillana and Albeniz's Asturias and Zambra Granadina and renews appreciation for path-breaking composers like Castelnuovo-Tedesco. He wrote extensively for Segovia and his Capriccio diabolico and Tonadilla are pieces of real substance. Disc two is largely made up transcriptions and it's amazing how well so many of them work on the guitar, at least under Segovia's magic fingers. Thus the transformations of Bach's violin music and even a Chopin Prelude sound idiomatic, and the gorgeous melodies of the Canzonetta from Mendelssohn's Op. 12 String Quartet are irresistible here. An entrancing set. --Dan Davis

Customer Reviews:

A Man and His Art - Magnificently Captured.......2007-04-06

This 2-CD set produced by Deutche Grammmophon and first released in 2002 is one set of the hundreds that could have been or the dozens that actually have been made and sold successfully all over the world. The exceptional feature of this particular collection is not, of course, the performer. Quite to the contrary, the miraculous consistency of stylings and performance are amongst the most remarkable aspects of the man who was, arguably, the 20th Centry's virtuoso supreme of the classical guitar, Andres Segovia (1893-1987.) Rather, it is the collection itself - the pieces chosen to be produced on this one set - this, to steal a German word, gestalt. While his style did not remain constant throughout his long life and career, by the time he had developed his most masterful skills that included doing his own arrangements - the era represented on this particular set (1951-1960) - his playing had become completely his own - unchallenged and unmatched by even other clearly great guitarists with whom he shared this era.

There are a total of 31 pieces played on these CDs and while a playlist would be an unnecessary use of space here, a list of the composers represented is not. More than the specific pieces Segovia gives us here, the range of composers chosen by the compilers and editors - with each piece rearranged by Segovia himself, tells us a great deal about his interests, talents and musical range. These composers include:
Isaac Albeniz, Johann Sebastian Bach, Mario Castelnuovo-Tedesco, Frederic Chopin, Claude Debussy, John Dowland, Manuel de Falla, Cesar Franke, Girolamo Frescobaldi, Edvard Grieg, George Frederic Handel, Felix Mendelsohn, Frederico Moreno Torroba, Modest Mussorgsky, Nicolo Paganini, Felipe Pedrell, Manuel Ponce, Jean-Philippe Rameau, Joaquin Rodrigo, Albert Roussel, Domenico Scarlatti, Alexander Scriabin, Segovia's own composition of Estudio sin luz, Fernando Sor, Francisco Tarrega, Joaquin Turina and Heitor Villa-Lobos. A truly magnificent and broad ranging collection held together by Segovia's unique personal style, approach and sound.

Largely self-taught, Andres Segovia did things with a guitar that others only imagined. He didn't just play Bach, for example - music written for an entirely different type of instrument (keyboards.) He went a step further, and recorder Bach's keyboard lessons written for his students (the Two and Three Part Inventions) and made them sound as if they had been written for the guitar! His artistry is evident to even the casual listener and in this collection, any devote of classical guitar and/or of Segovia as an individual artist, will not be disappointed.
Perfect listening for anytime. Hypnotic and, simply, unsurpassed. A necessary addition to any serious classical guitar collection.

What can you say - it's Segovia!.......2007-02-10

I saw Segovia perform live in my youth. What a treat! Anyone who loves Classical Guitar should love this collection.

EVERYBODY KNOWS.......2007-01-13

EVERYBODY KNOWS THAT ANDRES SEGOVIA WAS/IS THE WORLD'S GREATEST CLASSICAL GUITAR PLAYER. THIS CD IS A COMPILATION OF HIS RECORDINGS FROM THE THE EARLY 50'S TO THE LATE 60'S. HIS GUITAR MASTERY IS UNQUESTIONED AND HE IS AN INSPIRATION. I WISH I COULD PLAY GUITAR LIKE ANDRES SEGOVIA (BUT I CAN'T AND I NEVER WILL!).

Immortal guitar.......2006-08-02

Two CD's with Segovia's immortal music - an incredible treat at a great price!

WOW.......2006-02-23

Even though there is hiss from the original analog recordings this one is a must. Segovia! What more can you say. Anyone who likes classical guitar will love this.

Average customer rating: Mozart: The Great Piano Concertos, Vol. 2 Alfred Brendel Marvelous Mozart Artistic Genius Almost Perfect Penguin Guide "Recommended Recording"

Mozart: The Great Piano Concertos, Vol. 2 Manufacturer: Philips ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart | Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Piano | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Similar Items: Mozart: The Great Piano Concertos, Vol. 1 Mozart: Violin Concertos Mozart: Symphonies Nos. 35-41 Bach - The Complete Brandenburg Concertos / Pearlman, Boston Baroque Mozart: Symphony Nos.25, 26, 27, 29 & 32 ASIN: B0000041AB Release Date: 1994-10-11

Tracks:

1. Piano Concerto No.9 In Flat, KV 271 (Jeunehomme): 1. Allegro
2. Piano Concerto No.9 In Flat, KV 271 (Jeunehomme): 2. Andantino
3. Piano Concerto No.9 In Flat, KV 271 (Jeunehomme): 3. Rondeau. Presto
4. Piano Concerto No.25 In C, KV 503: 1. Allegro maestoso
5. Piano Concerto No.25 In C, KV 503: 2. Andante
6. Piano Concerto No.25 In C, KV 503: 3. Allegretto
7. Piano Concerto No.22 In E Flat, KV 482: 1. Allegro

Tracks:

1. Piano Concerto No. 22 In E Flat, KV 482: 2. Andante
2. Piano Concerto No. 22 In E Flat, KV 482: Allegro - Andante cantabile - Tempo I
3. Piano Concerto No. 15 In B Flat, KV 450: 1. Allegro
4. Piano Concerto No. 15 In B Flat, KV 450: 2. (Andante)
5. Piano Concerto No. 15 In B Flat, KV 450: 3. Allegro
6. Piano Concerto No. 27 In B Flat, KV 595: 1. Allegro
7. Piano Concerto No. 27 In B Flat, KV 595: 2. Larghetto
8. Piano Concerto No. 27 In B Flat, KV 595: 3. Allegro

Customer Reviews:

Mozart: The Great Piano Concertos, Vol. 2 Alfred Brendel.......2006-07-10

Nice interpretation of Mozart's piano concerto.

Marvelous Mozart.......2006-06-29

Alfred Brendel's place as an interpreter of the Viennese Classic repertory is by now unassailable, and his recordings of the Mozart Piano Concertos are a prime example of his art. His lean, focused sound can strike a listener as insufficiently sensuous in Romantic repertory, but against the backdrop of an orchestra, it seems a perfect modern equivalent of the eighteenth-century fortepiano, so much so that I don't really miss having an "authentic" instrument. Besides, discarding recordings such as these on the basis of inauthenticity would deny all listeners the chance to experience Brendel's practically infallible sense of style and taste.

Perhaps the real surprise in this collection of five concertos is that Brendel is at his most relaxed and insightful in the E-flat major Concerto, K. 482, which in most critical canons occupies a slightly lower place than the works which come before and after it. Mozart's warm-hearted and colorfully orchestrated (clarinets instead of the usual oboes) piece brings out an equivalent and unexpected playfulness of dynamic and rhythm in the pianist's irresistible reading, with profuse but always appropriate ornamentation in the rondo, and intriguing, stylish original cadenzas for the first and last movements. Incidentally, the same virtues hold for all of Brendel's emendations to Mozart's original notes in these pieces; in this he is decidely superior to Ashkenazy in his Mozart concerto recordings. (The one drawback of this entire set is that the inclusion of five concertos necessitates splitting K. 482 between the first and second CDs.)

It is only by these exalted standards that the performances of K. 271, the dashing "Jeunehomme," pushing the boundaries of standard concerto form with its unexpected piano interjections at the outset, and the Olympian K. 503 come off as slightly stiffer and less attuned to the finest nuance; however, the latter performance was recorded live and astonishes with its digital clarity, the concluding roar of applause being amply justified.

Brendel's collaborators, the Academy of St. Martin-in-the-Fields with Neville Marriner, supply exemplary accompaniments, notwithstanding some slight inaccuracies in the live K. 503 and, more surprisingly, K. 595. One hopes these recordings will be available for a long time to come.

Artistic Genius.......2006-05-31

Mozart is rightly hailed as a musical genius. Some say he was the best that ever was. I personally prefer Bach and baroque organ fugues but this CD is a good argument for the Mozart partisans.

In the first place, the compositions are excellent. Mozart was a genius and it shows. In the second place, the performances preserved here are exquisite. The recordings are clear and vibrant.

It is a first class album all around.

Almost Perfect.......2006-02-19

If you love Mozart you will really enjoy this CD. In my opinion Sir Neville Marriner & the Academy of St. Martin in the Fields performs Mozart better than any other. The only problem I have with this CD is some tracks on the first CD are recorded live. I have never been a big fan of live recordings. An occasional cough is heard on track 4 which makes me cringe. If only they passed out cough drops that evening I would have awarded this CD five stars. Otherwise the music is simply sublime. Robitussin anyone?

Penguin Guide "Recommended Recording".......2006-01-22

With his 27 piano concertos, Mozart developed the form to a new level of artistry and claimed dominion of the new musical genre. The first seven concertos resulted from early composition exercises from his father converting Baroque sonatas to concerto form (most not-so-special). The first truly-original piano concerto No. 5 was composed at age 17 and No.'s 14-27 are all considered mature and monumental with anything in the 20's truly magnificant. Even works as early as No. 9 "Jeunehomme" (composed for a female French student, Mlle. Jeunehomme, perhaps a love interest) reveal an uncharacteristic maturity, depth of beauty and perfection of form for such a young composer. While most of the 27 concertos are sunny and galante, the two minor-key concertos (No. 20 & 24 on Volume I) reveal Mozart's evolution into more personal, dramatic expression - foreshadowing the Romantic era ushered in part by Beethoven. However, by the late 1780's, the fickle Vieneese who were "so done" with his music, leading to Mozart's demise. Late in Mozart's life there appeared to be a "new phase" of introspection and simplicity as seen in the poignant last Concerto #27 (along with his last chamber works). But this was sadly cut short by his early death in 1791.

These readings by Brendel and Marriner are alive with enthusiasm, warmth, and the typical Brendel precision. The balance of the piano and orchestra is perfect and allow the drama to unfold unhindered. Along with Murray Perahia's and Andras Schiff's complete cycles, Brendel's performances of Mozart's piano concertos are considered - on the whole - to be at the top of the list overall. Highlights in Vol. II here must certainly be the simple beauty and chamber-like feel of Concerto No. 9 "Jeunehomme," the sparkling No. 22 (K.482) and the poignant "swansong" concerto, No. 27 (K. 595). Where volume II features these two more subdued concertos of immense tenderness (no timpani or trumpets), Volume I contains the powerfully emotive, crowd-pleasing D-minor and C-minor concertos No. 20, 24 - along with the famous and bubbly C-major concerto. Both volumes are essential listening, but that much might guide your first purchase if you can only get one set.

The six works on these two CD's (along with those of the sister set) are among the most skillfully composed, musically appealing and rightfully popular of Mozart's 27 piano concertos (hence the term, "Great Concertos"). Both sets received the highest Penguin Guide rating (Rosette) and are an official "Recommended Recording." Nice compliment. Additionally, Gramophone says "this set can be recommended without any reservations." The value and sound quality/balance are excellent (as with most all Philips DUO label CD's).

For those who like the sound of a Mozart-era fortepiano and more "period performances," there is a splendid 9-CD "complete" set of Mozart's piano concertos (no.'s 5-27) by Malcolm Bilson and the English Baroque Soloists w/ Sir John Gardiner conducting that is both top-notch music and a super value on DG. Also, if you are building a Mozart collection, many of these Philips' DUO sets are excellent choices and in the top-tier of quality: Great Serenades (Marriner), Piano Quartets (Beaux Arts Trio), Piano Trios (Beaux Art Trio), Violin concertos (Grumiaux), Violin Sonatas (Szeryng/Haebler), and Complete Quintets I, II (Grumiaux et al).

Average customer rating: Food for your Spirit An Antti Keisala Comment: Chopin Divine, Saddest Music In The World Arthur Rubenstein - Chopin 19 Nocturnes (Vol. 49) Hmmm... "A whole set of marvelous miniatures"

Arthur Rubinstein - Chopin 19 Nocturnes (Vol. 49) Manufacturer: RCA ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Chopin | Chopin, Frédéric | ( C ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Nocturnes | Short Forms | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Classical Instrumental Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Rubinstein Collection Vol 47 - Chopin: Waltzes, Impromptus, Bolero Rubinstein Collection, Vol. 45 Rubinstein Collection, Vol. 48 Rubinstein Collection, Vol. 50 Rubinstein Collection, Vol. 46 ASIN: B000031WBV Release Date: 2000-08-08

Tracks:

1. Op. 9, No. 1, In B-Flat Minor
2. Op. 9, No. 2 In E-Flat
3. Op. 9, No. 3 In B
4. Op. 15, No. 1 In F
5. Op. 15, No.2 In F-Sharp
6. Op. 15, No. 3 In G Minor
7. Op. 27, No. 1 In C-Sharp Minor
8. Op. 27, No. 2 In D-Flat
9. Op. 32, No. 1 In B
10. Op. 32, No. 2 In A-Flat

Tracks:

1. Op. 37, No. 1 In G Minor
2. Op. 37, No. 2 In G
3. Op. 48, No. 1 In C Minor
4. Op. 48, No. 2 In F-Sharp Minor
5. Op. 55, No. 1 In F Minor
6. Op. 55, No. 2 In E-Flat
7. Op. 62, No. 1 In B
8. Op. 62, No. 2 In E
9. Op. 72, No. 1 In E Minor

Amazon.com

Despite Arthur Rubinstein's extroverted personality and open-hearted interpretive approach, his performances of Chopin's introspective, half-lit Nocturnes inspired him to some of his greatest recordings, as this, the last of his three traversals of the 19, amply demonstrates. His earlier recordings, from 1936-37 and 1949-50, have their admirers, but this set dating from 1965 and 1967 is superior for its interpretive depth and realistic stereo sound. It's a touch slower than the earlier versions, and Rubinstein's glorious tone color, mastery of shadings, and unerring sense of rubato help make these among his greatest recordings. He makes the music breathe as few others have; the melodies go straight to the heart thanks to subtle phrasing that wrings worlds of emotion without wallowing. That sense of naturalness and inevitability in his playing can be heard in every one of these 19 works. It makes the start of Op. 27, No. 1 deeply moving and inspires awe at the way he brings structural clarity to Op. 48, No. 1 without compromising its mood. Others may have equaled his achievement in one or another of these works, but as a set, this is inspired pianism. --Dan Davis

Customer Reviews:

Food for your Spirit.......2007-02-28

I love, love, love this moving collection! It is divinely inspired, celestial, heavenly, stirring, emotionally filling and guaranteed to transport you to a higher dimension...

An Antti Keisala Comment: Chopin Divine, Saddest Music In The World.......2007-02-09

Sometimes we feel we're unspeakably down: nights when you're exhausted by your daily routines and the dreamer in you wakes up in vain. Some people read romantic short stories. Some go to have long walks on the beach. When I'm blue, I either go running or watch Wong's "Chunking Express", some Tarkovsky or listen to the saddest music. To music most divine. That's this Rubinstein's interpretations of Chopin are high on that list, as they are on every other best-of list I've yet compiled.

Simply put, this is a masterly artist interpreting the most masterly artist of our time.

Chopin is, to me, the epitome of an artist who invests his whole soul to his music. A poet whose own poems start to shape his heart. Others can comment (and have already done so) on the technical aspects of either Chopin or Rubinstein's skill, but I merely wish to articulate how shocking his music is in how it bares the soul, how naked it is. In modern rock music, I've found Peter Gabriel to work this way, at least the Peter Gabriel of the untitled era, up to the album "Us". This is the greatest of commitment, almost a secret made between the composer and listener. The music approaches the listener in such a direct way not from the outside but from within. And this has nothing to do with who's playing the piano. There are simply passages that are larger than either the player or our comprehension. The silences, the rubatos, the relation of the notes to the mood of the thing, to the heart of the matter. Rubinstein just happens the most open-hearted, as one of the editorial reviews points out.

About Chopin. He's not like Bach in my books, whom I've found to appear emotionally majestic yet who's more like the Peter Greenaway of classical music; more showy and mathematical, calculating. Adhering to a certain cosmology rather than inventing and investing straight from and to the soul. Whereas Bach relies on framework in which he fills his music (this is, of course, the Zeitgeist of his time and style of music and in itself nothing remarkably revealing) with the finest of contrapuncts, Chopin's method is to create a free flow of melody, harmony, tempo and dynamics. It's organic and it's fluid. I don't think I should even mention Mozart's badinage. Rubinstein uses the rubato of Chopin to a great extent, which makes for some of the most breathtaking passages ever played on a piano. I play piano so badly I'll never have the possibility to play Chopin properly, but I've done the 'next best thing', that is, I've played him as transcribed for the guitar by Franscisco Tárrega. Those transcriptions, in my mind, contain that bittersweet chance of rubato, and that nakedness translates to the guitar quite well. But that's not the real thing.

This is. Of course, the best thing is to get all of Rubinstein's recordings, but if I was to make the hardest decision and choose only one, this would be it. Very close would be the Preludes as well as the Mazurkas, but this is perhaps the most heavenly music. Only Pärt's "Alina" continually reaches me on such a personal level. These songs made me believe that music can change your life.

Now I'm going to try and sell this item to you. Thus I'll have to ask that particular question: what is it about Rubinstein? We know him as the mastermind, the giant interpreter, who revolutionized how we listen to Chopin. But this isn't just merits, or otherwise he wouldn't be celebrated today for anything else than just showing a different path at the time. And this is a sad destiny some other artists share. Where Rubinstein triumphs is that his playing is much like what Chopin's music is like: it's a rare gift for us to find two artists with the same soul. This is why I think Rubinstein continues to be important and these records even life-altering. That's not in his technical skill, per se, it's in his ability to channel something from within, lift up something from the notes that can only be read between the lines. He's intimate, much like the music, and that's why I let him come close and do his best. Most beautiful music, most uplifting music; the saddest music in the world.

With best regards,
AK

Arthur Rubenstein - Chopin 19 Nocturnes (Vol. 49).......2007-01-21

Arthur Rubenstein interprets Chopin beautifully with great emotion. It would have been interesting, were it possible, to have him play these great works in the presence of Chopin to get his reaction. The "Red Seal" RCA label lives up to it reputation for having made some of the very best quality recordings ever made. The crisp, clear and true to the original sound makes you feel as though you were in the studio while the recording was being made.

Hmmm..........2006-12-04

Well, here's the good: Rubinstein is far more adept than you or I will ever be at interpreting these pieces. His playing is rich, yet rather restrained. A bit too restrained at times. Now then, the bad:

1. sound quality is in dire need of remastery. I can't emphasize that enough. While not as thick with background noise as the Cortot Box set recorded in the 30s and onward... It's still pretty thick, which bothers the hell out of me, making listening straight throughh almost impossible at times.

2: only 8 (!!!) of the minor key Nocturnes are accounted for. I'm sorry, but the minor key pieces are VASTLY more interesting and varied and sensual and full of sturm und drang than the major key pieces. Three are missing, though I'm too lazy to go picking through and find out which 3 they are. Still, that's about 1/4th of the minor key NOcturnes: unaccounted for.

That plus the issue of sound quality: I'll stick with my Claudio Arrau set, hushed breath and all, which I have had to purchase twice and which never fails to take me where I need to go.

I love the Rubins, but still: Buyer Beware.

"A whole set of marvelous miniatures".......2006-05-22

Although most of people tend to consider, Chopin' s Nocturnes as tearful salon pieces, they perhaps retains, with major effervescence than any other genre composed by him, the essential principles that support the Romantic mood. The night conceived as a frame for the febrile imagination, that may originate the most beautiful dreams or on the contrary the most horrid nightmares.

"Chopin loved the night and its soft mysteries as much as did Robert Louis Stevenson, and his nocturnes are true night pieces, some with agitated, remorseful countenance, others seen are whispering at dusk." ..."He ennobled the form originated by Field, giving it dramatic breadth, passion and even grandeur." These smart considerations belong to James Huneker (1860--1921) the famed author and music and drama critic.

Under this perspective any analysis around Chopin should be done according the specified genre you consider, due it would explain preconceived attitudes and superficial generalizations that frequently lead to trivial thoughts and originate distorted and deformed opinions around the egregious figure of the beloved Polish composer.

There have been three famed and renowned pianists that have shone with radiant splendor at the moment to play this set of Nocturnes. Of course that Rubinstein was one of them, (the others two are Samson Francois and Alfred Cortot), and the reason why they are above the most, resides in the fact they played every one of these works, with a special connotation and intimate atmosphere. As Huneker previously emphasized, every Nocturne has its particular blaze, texture, color, personality and expression.

So if you want to experiment a true experience listening this set of Nocturnes, don' t think it over and acquire it.

Average customer rating: nice cd :'( HIGHLY Innapropriate for children. Holy cow..... Good, but not exellent.

Kidz Bop, Vol. 9 Kidz Bop Kids Manufacturer: Razor & Tie ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Children's Music | Styles | Music Sing-A-Longs | Children's Music | Styles | Music Similar Items: Kidz Bop, Vol. 10 Kidz Bop, Vol. 8 Kidz Bop, Vol. 11 Kidz Bop, Vol. 7 Kidz Bop Gold ASIN: B000E6EJ8E Release Date: 2006-02-21

Tracks:

1. Behind These Hazel Eyes
2. Beverly Hills
3. Don't Lie
4. Wake Me Up When September Ends
5. Listen To Your Heart
6. Just The Girl
7. Pon De Replay
8. Cool
9. Photograph
10. These Words
11. You And Me
12. Feel Good Inc.
13. Chariot
14. Boyfriend
15. Speed Of Sound
16. We Belong Together
17. Wake Up
18. Axel F (The Frog Song)

Customer Reviews:

nice cd.......2007-03-31

there are some nice songs. My daughter like Crazy Frog. Didn't appeal to me as an adult. I guess it is a good cd for the kids. not enough dance songs I think.

:'(.......2007-02-18

Would all of you please bow your heads down in respect for the original songwriters now. We have gathered here today to remember and charish the good times with the original versions of these songs. Even though we may not like some of the originals, we can still feel sorry for the poor artists who now have one less hit because of Kidz Bop.

HIGHLY Innapropriate for children........2007-01-03

Several of the tracks included on this collection are innapropriate for children. There are references to drug use, skipping and breaking into school, and some stronger language. While a few of the tracks are probably fine, these songs were written geared towards an adult audience. Having innocent children perform them does not make them child appropriate. My child received this as a gift. Thank goodness I have the foresight to censor what she listens to.

Holy cow............2006-11-11

1.Behind these hazel eyes - Huh??!! The kids singing sound like whining ostriches and the lady singing is obviously a Kelly wanna-be. She sounds like a dude with laryngitis.
2.Beverly Hills - What's with the gimme gimmes - gimme more guys who WISH they were in Weezer??!!
3.Don't Lie - I cannot believe they let these kids ruin the Black Eyed Peas. These kids need to go die in a hole. That is all I have to say.
4.Wake Me Up When September Ends - No, NO!! Where do they get these adult singers? This guy singing has no talent what so ever. He ruined one of the best Green Day songs.
5.Listen To Your Heart - Never heard the original but I'm pretty sure they messed up this song too. And the lady singing - Oh gosh!!
6.Just The Girl - Ok... the guy singing on this song sounds like a GIRL with laryngitis!! Ruined completely.
7.Pon de Replay - They all sound like future robots. And when the kids repeat the "turn the music up" part, it actually makes me want to turn the music down. Way down!! The lady singing sounds nothing like Rihanna. This redo is a disgrace.
8.Cool - I hated the original, but when compared to the crappy Kidz Bop version, I love it.
9.Photograph - Didn't care for the original. Is it just me or do the guys sound gay?
10.These Words - No little brat should EVER try to imitate the great Natasha Bedingfield. It just shouldn't be done. The lady sounds nothing like N.B. I bet she was rejected on American Idol!!
11.You and Me - The original was OK. This version sucks - I'd rather listen to a screeching bat!!
12.Feel Good Inc. - When they imitate one of the greatest bands ever, I draw the line. These kids and adults suck - period.
13.Chariot - Pure Crap!!
14.Boyfriend - Never heard the original. This version sounds stupid, though.
15.Speed of Sound - I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this song (the original, that is)!! Kidz Bop must die!!!
16.We Belong Together - How could they even think that anyone could sing like Mariah Carey?? Especially on a crappy Kidz Bop CD?? It's just not possible.
17.Wake Up - I liked the original. The lady singing? Wow, she does not have an OUNCE of talent when it comes to singing. And the kids - UH!!
18.Axel F the frog song - Can't remember the exact name. But wow does this song suck. The original was just plain bad and now Kidz Bop has to go and crappify it even more??!! This is definitely, without a doubt, the worst and most annoying song on the album. The kids sound like annoying sound effects!!

Rachel,Who loves Orange Soda

Good, but not exellent........2006-10-03

Okay, i saw this at the library, picked it up, and copied some songs on my Windows Media Player. It's hillarious hearing the Kidz Bop kids trying to sing a song that was originally by a frog (Axel F). But their version of 'Pon De Replay' was really bad, but i like "Listen To Your Heart', i'll just look for the original songs on the Windows Media guide (I own Axel F). So please save your money and buy CDs by the original artists.(Crazy Frog, Gorillaz, etc.)

Average customer rating: 70's Greatest Rock Hits #1 Hits Vol.9 All the hits Solid Seventies CD A decent collection of mostly one hit wonders from the 1970s This is a great CD!

70's Greatest Rock Hits: #1 Hits Vol.9 Various Artists Manufacturer: Priority Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Pop | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Soft Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Oldies | Pop | Styles | Music Bubblegum | Oldies | Pop | Styles | Music 1970s | By Decade | Pop | Styles | Music Compilations | Pop | Styles | Music | Dance Pop | Easy Listening | General | Oldies | Traditional Vocalists General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music General | Compilations | Rock | Styles | Music 1970-1979 | Decades | Compilations | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music 4-for-3 Pop | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Rock | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Great Records Of The Decade: 70's Hits, Vol. 1 Great Records Of The Decade: 70's Hits, Vol. 2 Hard to Find 45s on CD, Volume 8: 70's Pop Classics Pure 70's The Best of '70s Rock Chart Toppers ASIN: B000003A8A Release Date: 1991-05-09

Tracks:

1. Love Will Keep Us Together - Captain & Tennille
2. Raindrops Keep Fallin' On My Head - B.J. Thomas
3. Torn Between Two Lovers - Mary MacGregor
4. I Think I Love You - Partridge Family
5. Knock Three Times - Dawn
6. Escape (Pina Colada Song) - Rupert Holmes
7. He Don't Love You (Like I Love You) - Tony Orlando & Dawn
8. Alone Again (Naturally) - Gilbert O' Sullivan
9. Seasons In The Sun - Terry Jacks

Customer Reviews:

70's Greatest Rock Hits #1 Hits Vol.9.......2007-05-14

This album along with the other volumes (1-15) provide a very nice collection of 70's Rock Hits. Used condition of CD was found to be in good condition and played with out any noticable loss of sound quality.

All the hits.......2007-03-21

This CD is GREAT!!! My wife loves it too! From the first song to the last song, you'll be singing along and getting down like you did back in the seventies. *****

Solid Seventies CD.......2007-01-12

You know for a decade much derided by shriveled exhippy babyboomers from the 60s, the 70s certainly produced a mountain of memorable and creative tunes. This is a great CD with some of the decade's best stuff.

A decent collection of mostly one hit wonders from the 1970s.......2003-11-06

Volume 9 in the "70's Greatest Rock Hits" collection is one of the more thematic offerings in the series, with most of the songs being about love (or the absence thereof). You do have to be wary of the sugar content on some of these songs, such as the Captain & Tennille's "Love Will Keep Us Together" and "He Don't Love You (Like I Love You)" from Tony Orlando & Dawn. But then you have one hit wonder Gilbert O'Sullivan's "Alone Again (Naturally)," which balances out all of the sweetness all by itself. There are only ten tracks on this album, but most of them are in that one hit wonder mold so if you are missing B.J. Thomas' "Raindrops Keep Fallin' On My Head," Terry Jacks' "Seasons in the Sun," and "Escape (Pina Colada Song)" by Rupert Holmes, this is a good way of filling some holes in your music library with regards to minor hits from the Seventies because unless you are a big fan of Tony Orlando and Dawn or the Partridge Family, you are probably not going to have three or four albums actually put out by these artists.

This is a great CD!.......1998-12-03

I love this CD! Whenever I have homework or a test to study for, this one goes right into the player. My favorite songs are "Ventura Highway" by America and "Dream Weaver" by Gary Wright. Don't delay, buy "70's Greatest Rock Hits Volume 6: FM Hits" today!

Average customer rating: pretty jazzy Warm Rainfall Brilliant Sublime A New Refreshing Album With A New DJ

Café del Mar, Vol. 9 Various Artists Manufacturer: Universal International ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Trip-Hop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Compilations | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music | Ambient | Dance Pop | Disco | Drum & Bass | Electronica | Freestyle | Techno-House | Trance | Trip Hop General | R&B | Styles | Music General | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music Dance & DJ | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: Café del Mar, Vol. 10 Café del Mar, Vol. 5 Cafe Del Mar - Volume 7 Café del Mar, Vol. 4 Cafe Del Mar: Volume 6 ASIN: B00005B9OJ Release Date: 2002-05-27

Tracks:

1. Beyond The Sunset - Jo Manji
2. Island Memories (Original Mix) - Lovers Lane
3. Desire (Ambient Mix) - Blank & Jones
4. Lunar Landings - Kalliope
5. A Day In The Sun - So Fine
6. The Cure (Sunshine Mix) - Miro
7. Troya - Rue Du Soleil
8. Plentiude Part 2 - Soft Wave
9. Many Rivers To Cross - CDM
10. Time Is The Enemy - Quantic
11. Quente - Trio Mafua
12. 8.00 AM - Lazybatusu
13. Morning Light (Coffee Shop Remix) - Mr. Swen G

Album Description

2002 edition compiled by resident DJ Bruno Lepetre. 14 tracks, Jo Manji 'Beyond The Sunset', Lovers Lane 'Island Memories', Blank & Jones 'Desire' (Ambient Mix) Kalliope 'Lunar Landings', So Fine 'A Day In The Sun', Miro 'The Cure' (Sunshine Mix), Rue Du Soleil 'Troya', Soft Wave 'Plenitude Part 2', CDM 'Many Rivers To Cross', Time Is The Enemy 'Quantic', Trio Mafua 'Quente', Lazybatusu '8.00 AM', Mr. Swen G. feat. Inusa 'Morning Light' (Coffee Shop Remix) & Digitano & CDM 'Rajamanta'. This CD includes one interactive track, where you will see pictures from Ibiza, Cafe Del Mar & his famous sunset sessions. Digipak.

Album Details

The Ninth Volume of Tracks Specifically Assembled for Ibiza-ayia Napia-bahia Mar-style Chillers.

Customer Reviews:

pretty jazzy.......2006-04-18

This is an excellent CD. Every song belongs on the disc (except
"time is the enemy" by Quantic, although an excellent song, it is too upbeat for this CD and could have been replaced by something from the Knighthawks. This song can be found also on Private Lounge 3, of which I own, and the song by Quantic was a purchasing point for me to buy the CD, so don't take this opinion in the wrong way or out of context.). All of these songs keep a tight knit from one song to the other - this has made it into my top 3 CD's out of 50 something.

If you like this album, or haven't purchased it, you should check out some albums by Praful at the same time, you're sure to enjoy.

Again, this is a great disc.

Warm Rainfall.......2005-04-07

I recommend you buy this CD. It feels like a warm rainfall while sitting out on the roof watching the colours of the moving traffic below.
Buy it!

Brilliant.......2004-12-10

This compilation is so soothing. you can just sit down with a drink in your hand and let your mind wander as you listen to the blissful tunes coming from this cd. Its simply brilliant, a perfect way to spend a chilled out evening as you maybe watch the sun set on a golden beach. If you dont have a beach, dont worry, listening to this cd will make you think you were on a sunset beach in Ibiza.

Sublime.......2003-08-29

This is chill music for the soul, music to live by. One beautiful track after another. It has played non-stop on my various CD players since I got it 5 months ago...and I am not even close to growing tired of it. Rather, it has become like oxygen. I can't live without.

Every CD in the del Mar series is worth its weight in gold, but this one can be weighted with a far more precious metal. I would need to be a poet to say more about this wonderful compilation. But I must mention track 5: it is a highlight among bright stars. Never have I heard such smooth and darkly elegant guitar work, all of course backed by a first-class chill groove.

Plug your soul into this CD...you will be transported to a lovely place.

A New Refreshing Album With A New DJ.......2003-07-08

Well, I first heard their music from their album VOLUMEN OCHO. Though I really hate the cover, still, the music is wonderful. Then, when this new album arrives, I wonder whether I can buy it or not ( NB : See the prize and you'll know what I mean ). Finally I buy it and I really enjoy it. Everything is nice, the music, the booklet, and mostly, the video they put on this CD. But very unfortunately, the track that is perhaps the best one, Rajamanta ( i.e. last track ), can't play except you turn the video. I really wonder why such an unfortunate thing can happen.
But don't be so dissapointed, the tracks are wonderful. My favorites are :
- Jo Manji : Beyond The Sunset
- Kalioppe : Lunar Landings
- ? : Desire
The others are nice but, for me, not the best. If you are a CAFE DEL MAR's fan, better buy this one.

Average customer rating: I disagree with the consensus here Don't hesitate to get this set Superb interpretations by Katchen A little rushed sometimes, but beautiful Radiant and inspired recordings

Brahms: Works for Solo Piano Manufacturer: Decca ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Brahms | Brahms, Johannes | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Ballads | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Fantasies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Sonatinas | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Intermezzos | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Variations | Variations | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Scherzo | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Classical | Box Sets | Stores | Music Bargain Box Sets | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music Similar Items: Schubert: The Piano Sonatas Liszt: Piano Works Chopin: The Piano Works Works for Solo Piano Brahms: Concertos for Piano No. 1 & 2, Fantasia Op. 116 ASIN: B0000042GM Release Date: 1997-11-11

Tracks:

1. Variations On A Theme By Paganini, Op.35: Book 1 - Heft 1
2. Variations On A Theme By Paganini, Op.35: Book 2 - Heft 2
3. Variations And Fugue On A Theme By G.F. Handel, Op.24: B Flat Major
4. 4 Ballades, Op.10: Andante
5. 4 Ballades, Op.10: Andante
6. 4 Ballades, Op.10: Intermezzo. Allegro
7. 4 Ballades, Op.10: Andante con moto

Tracks:

1. Works For Solo Piano: Ziemlich langsam
2. Works For Solo Piano: Poco larghetto
3. Works For Solo Piano: Allegro
4. Works For Solo Piano: Walzer Nr. 1 - 8
5. Works For Solo Piano: Walzer Nr. 9 - 16
6. Works For Solo Piano: Scherzo es-moll

Tracks:

1. Works For Piano Solo: Allegro
2. Works For Piano Solo: Andante
3. Works For Piano Solo: Scherzo. Allegro molto e con fuoco
4. Works For Piano Solo: Finale. Allegro con fuoco
5. Works For Piano Solo: Allegro non troppo ma energico
6. Works For Piano Solo: Andante con espressione
7. Works For Piano Solo: Scherzo. Allegro
8. Works For Piano Solo: Finale. Introduzione (sostenuto) - Allegro non troppo e rubato
9. Works For Piano Solo: Agitato
10. Works For Piano Solo: Molto passionato, ma non troppo allegro

Tracks:

1. Works For Piano Solo: Allegro maestoso
2. Works For Piano Solo: Andante espressivo - Andante molto
3. Works For Piano Solo: Scherzo. Allegro energico
4. Works For Piano Solo: Intermezzo. Andante molto
5. Works For Piano Solo: Finale. Allegro moderato ma rubato
6. Works For Piano Solo: Presto energico
7. Works For Piano Solo: Andante
8. Works For Piano Solo: Allegro passionato
9. Works For Piano Solo: Adagio
10. Works For Piano Solo: Andante con grazia ed intimissimo sentimento
11. Works For Piano Solo: Andante teneramente
12. Works For Piano Solo: Allegro agitato

Tracks:

1. Works For Solo Piano: 8 Pieces, Op.76 - I Capriccio in F sharp minor
2. Works For Solo Piano: 8 Pieces, Op. 76 - II Capriccio in B minor
3. Works For Solo Piano: 8 Pieces, Op. 76 - III Intermezzo in A flat major
4. Works For Solo Piano: 8 Pieces, Op. 76 - IV Intermezzo in B flat major
5. Works For Solo Piano: 8 Pieces, Op. 76 - V Capriccio in C sharp minor
6. Works For Solo Piano: 8 Pieces, Op. 76 - VI Intermezzo in A major
7. Works For Solo Piano: 8 Pieces, Op. 76 - VII Intermezzo in A minor
8. Works For Solo Piano: 8 Pieces, Op. 76 - VIII Capriccio in C major
9. Works For Solo Piano: 6 Pieces, Op. 118 - I Intermezzo in A minor
10. Works For Solo Piano: 6 Pieces, Op. 118 - II Intermezzo in A major
11. Works For Solo Piano: 6 Pieces, Op. 118 - III Ballade in G minor
12. Works For Solo Piano: 6 Pieces, Op. 118 - IV Intermezzo in F minor
13. Works For Solo Piano: 6 Pieces, Op. 118 - V Romanze in F major
14. Works For Solo Piano: 6 Pieces, Op. 118 - VI Intermezzo in E flat minor
15. Works For Solo Piano: 4 Pieces, Op. 119 - I Intermezzo in B minorn B
16. Works For Solo Piano: 4 Pieces, Op. 119 - II Intermezzo in E minor
17. Works For Solo Piano: 4 Pieces, Op. 119 - III Intermezzo in C major
18. Works For Solo Piano: 4 Pieces, Op. 119 - IV Rhapsody in E flat major

Tracks:

1. Works For Solo Piano: Andante moderato
2. Works For Solo Piano: Andante non troppo e con molto espressione
3. Works For Solo Piano: Andante con moto
4. Works For Solo Piano: g-moll
5. Works For Solo Piano: d-moll
6. Works For Solo Piano: F-dur
7. Works For Solo Piano: fis-moll
8. Works For Solo Piano: fis-moll
9. Works For Solo Piano: Des-dur
10. Works For Solo Piano: F-dur
11. Works For Solo Piano: a-moll
12. Works For Solo Piano: e-moll
13. Works For Solo Piano: E-dur
14. Works For Solo Piano: d-moll
15. Works For Solo Piano: d-moll
16. Works For Solo Piano: D-dur
17. Works For Solo Piano: d-moll
18. Works For Solo Piano: B-dur
19. Works For Solo Piano: f-moll
20. Works For Solo Piano: fis-moll
21. Works For Solo Piano: D-dur
22. Works For Solo Piano: h-moll
23. Works For Solo Piano: e-moll
24. Works For Solo Piano: e-moll

Customer Reviews:

I disagree with the consensus here.......2007-07-11

I was disappointed by this set and would not recommend it. It's great that all of Brahms' piano works are included here and the boxed set includes some difficult to find works (like those Op. 21 variation sets) as well as the better known and wonderful later piano pieces and the Op. 39 Waltzes.

The problem is that Katchen's performances are flawed and often unpleasant. The worst problem is that he bangs the keys a lot. Fortissimo passages are ideally not supposed to be noisy; they are intended to be loud and forceful without being unpleasant. It's a key distinction that Katchen fails to realize. I also think that Katchen's technique is a bit patchy. He blurs the passagework and there is a lack of both accuracy and delicacy in the fast passages. To take an example, the Op. 76 set is marred by both of these problems: a lack of accuracy and a tendency to bang on the keyboard. I also found many of the passages that didn't suffer from these problems to be interpretationally uninteresting (the slow parts of the Paganini Variations, Bk II are undistinguished, to take an example). Big thumbs down.

I did some direct comparison of sets to the Katchen performances and in every case Katchen was far inferior.

Take the Op. 39 Waltzes: Leon Fleisher's old recording is wonderful and much more sensitive and interesting than Katchen.

I also listened to Radu Lupu's recording of the Opp. 117-119 pieces (THAT is a wonderful recording - if you are looking for a superb recording of Brahms piano music, get that one and save yourself the aggravation of the Katchen set) and it's simply no contest.

I also sampled the terrific Op. 79 Rhapsodies and the Paganini Variations as played by a favorite pianist of mine, the lesser-known French pianist Nicholas Angelich, and Katchen's sloppy and undirected interpretations pales before the versions by a "non-superstar" pianist.

So while I admit I haven't listened to every portion of the Katchen set, I found every reason to avoid it when compared to some alternatives available.

Don't hesitate to get this set.......2007-07-04

It's a good thing I waited to write this until I'd heard these CDs a few times. I would have been guilty of understatement. Katchen's work grows on me in much the same way Brahms' music itself does. It is rich in nuance and insight, and never fails to please.

I'll confess, I bought this set to fill the gaps in my piecemeal collection. What a delightful surprise to find my "stopgap" set more than holds its own against recordings by the likes of Richter, Rubinstein and Gilels. To help the reader overcome any reluctance I offer a few comments on the few "downsides" mentioned by others:

Yes, Katchen does play fast, but not always, and certainly not out of inability to hold the listener's attention through more artful means. Katchen's track times are often slower than Rubinstein's or even Gilels'; but where the spirit moves him, he can go like a rocket. He's generally fastest in the earlier works, where a case can be made for playing them with youthful ardor; Katchen does this to a T. This applies to the first 2 sonatas, the Paganini variations (why would anything associated with Paganini lack splash and dazzle?) and to a much lesser extent, parts of the Handel variations. The main thing is, it works. The very few places where I felt Katchen was rushing the music are heavily outnumbered by places where the added energy seems to "fit" like a glove.

Yes, in an exhaustive set you inevitably endure the "bottom of the barrel." I'm surprised how little of this 6-CD set strikes me as anything less than indispensible. Every track is worth hearing. Katchen has been surpassed here and there, but he doesn't put in a bad performance in the whole batch.

Yes, the recordings are more than 40 years old. They will not satisfy the most jaded audiophile (there's not quite the "presence" of a good recording today). But they are amazingly clean and lifelike for their age (even the 3 tracks that are mono). They sound noticeably better than the popular Rubinstein recordings of equal vintage. At first I thought I heard a touch of bass-heaviness, but now I just think Katchen gives us a strong, clear bass line. Once again, it works. The sound is simply not a problem for a normal listener.

Finally, there's the small stuff. Getting the CDs out of their tight-fitting sleeves without putting your fingerprints on the playing surface is well-nigh impossible, unless you give in and apply a letter opener to solve the problem once and for all. Is that any reason not to get this much wonderful music at such a low price? London has even revived the old practice of offering different program notes in different languages, so that multilingual readers can benefit from more than one set of comments. All around it's a winner!

Superb interpretations by Katchen.......2006-11-16

Katchen's performace throughout this collection are excellent.Brahms integrates many of Schumann's,Bach's and Beethovens compositional ideas into his own works.He is a master of the appoggiatura(suspension of the dominant chord).And the ghosts of Bach,Schumann,and Beethoven appear at intervals throughout this collection of his piano works.The VARIATIONS ON AN ORIGINAL THEME is an ethereal experience,and the Op.09 VARIATIONS ON A THEME BY SCHUMANN, composed after his death,Brahms's pathos,especialy in the slower variations, make you aware of his sadness of Schumann passing, as there is vivid sense of despair and remorse you can hear throughout.It is well documented the profound influence Shumann had on Brahms's compositional process.OP.76 is a passionate performance by Katchen.You also have short piano works culminated in Op116,Op 117,Op.118,which includes the great masterpiece in Ebminor,and Op.119.The Pagganini Variations,Variations on a theme by Haydn,the Ballads Op. 10.And both volumes of the HUNGARIAN DANCES,the 2 Rhapsody's,and VARATIONS ON A THEME BY HANDEL.It quite remarkable that such music could be created by such a young man in the astonishing Sonatas,OP.1,OP.2,and OP.5.The slow movements in all three sonates are very inspiring,and heart fealt.It makes you glad to be alive in order to hear such remarkable music.A well balanced performance throughout.If your a Brahms lover,this is a must for your collection.Enjoy

A little rushed sometimes, but beautiful.......2005-02-03

To be honest, I can't really figure out how much I like Katchen's performance. It's hard to gauge because Brahms's piano music is inherently exceptional played by just about any performer.

I feel that the ballades, op. 10 are played way too fast (although I'm not exactly sure how close Katchen is to Brahms's tempi indications). I've heard them by several other performers and, being a Gould fan, would have to say that his slower interpretation really captures how beautiful the pieces are more than anyone else. I also enjoy Kempff's performances of many later works. Katchen really seems so rushed for some reason. To me, that really takes attention away from the fine details, which I think are so essential to Brahms's piano music. He's not quite delicate enough with some of the pieces.

This faster speed is only very slight for the rest of the set, but pretty consistently. I think he does a better job with more intense pieces like many of his larger-scale variations and the sonatas. Those I would give 5 stars, but only 4 stars for the op. 116-119, for they're a little too fast.

My only other qualm is the arrangement of the set. It would be nice to have all the sonatas together on a disc, 116-119 on a disc, etc., going along with the whole chronological thing..

However, all these things are personal preference. I would definitely recommend this set. It's made up about 1/2 of my music listening for the past couple months. It's not expensive at all for what you're getting, and if you get just one Brahms piano cd, you're going to want to get more, so you should just get it over with and have this whole set, it's fabulous music. Just keep in mind that this is not the only interpretation that should be considered.

Radiant and inspired recordings.......2004-09-19

If there is a more effervescent , idiomatic , innovative and resplendently performance of the Handel Variations , I have not heard it . Katchen emphasizes with colossal scrupulosity the wide doe and the diversity spectre of the orchestral instruments . You must marvel at the technical equipment of Katchen playing .
The other outstanding version of these Variations is of Michael Ponti (live preformance)
gifted with a major emphasis in the striking and color tone ; but the point to remark is that in both performings the approach is similar ; every one of the Variations must be played as a microcosmos in itself ; with nuance , grace , majesty, powerful imagination, sense of the span and above al ; savoir vivre . If you intend to play with authoritative precision without Mediterranean dewy and radiant mood ; you are destined to fail with these Variations and becoming unbearable for the audience and the listener . Lamentably , there are many of them in the actual market but I think you can guess them .
The two Rhapsodies are performed with the highest commitment . Melodic flight and arresting lyricism .
The Sonatas are superbly performed . The Sonata No. 3 may find serious matchers with Clifford Curzon and Paul Badura Skoda .
The intermezzos are depicted with the adequate illuminating . These intimate pages must be played with the perfect balance of light and shadows ; think in Chopin Nocturnes for instance . Only Glenn Gould gets close to him in the Intermezzo Op. 117 No. 2 .
The Ballades may be the weakest works of this fundamental set . Benedetti Michelangeli and Emil Gilels recorded brilliant and eloquent versions.
Finally The Paganini Variations find in Benedetti Michelangeli a serious and unbeatable adversary .
To be honest , this set is widely recommendable for you , to know the whole and intimate world of Johannes Brahms , the beloved son of Hamburg.
Katchen also recorded a powerful Islamey and an unforgettable Rachmaninoff No. 2 .

Track Listings:

1. Wagner Collection
2. A Life in Music, Box 3 (Box Set) [Box set]
3. Asia: Scherzo Sonata/ Piano Quartet/Why (?) Jacob
4. Bartók: Solo Piano Works [Box set]
5. Bartok & Schumann: Piano Quintets
6. Bayekeleye
7. Beethoven: Diabelli Variations; Piano Sonata "Waldstein"
8. Beethoven: Overture "Coriolan"/Symphony No.9
9. Beethoven: Piano Concerto; Bach: Concerto, BWV 1054
10. Beethoven: Piano Concertos Nos. 3-5

Track Listings

track listings

Track Listings

Best of Ricky Martin [Import]

Igor Stravinsky: Petrushka/The Rite of Spring

Complete Capitol Small Group Transcriptions [Import]

Music: Christmas Wonderland

Hazey Janes [Import]

Diva

Freedom at Last

Handel: Water Music; Fireworks Music

God Is Love: The Gospel Sessions

En las Buenas Y en las Malas

Find Your Home

Fireball Country

Dreamcatcher [CD-single] [Import]

American Jubilee

Beyond and Back: The X Anthology