Music

Average customer rating:

Noble Creatures
The Gourds
Manufacturer: Yep Roc Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

Country Rock | Rock | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Easy Tiger
Translated From Love
Icky Thump
Sky Blue Sky
Cow Fish Fowl or Pig

ASIN: B000R7I2BA
Release Date: 2007-07-10

Tracks:

How Will You Shine?
Kicks In the Sun
Promenade
A Few Extra Kilos
Last Letter
The Gyroscopic
Moon Gone Down
Red Letter Day
Out On the Vine
Cranky Mulatto
Steeple Full Of Shadows
All In the Pack
Flavor On the Tongue
Dr. Spivey

Amazon.com

Three tracks into Noble Creatures, you hit the album's heart. The opening notes of "Promenade" faintly recall the Band's non-pareil classic, "The Weight," but it's Kevin Russell's high lonesome vocal quaver and Max Johnston's long-toned, austere fiddle lines that make "Promenade" possibly the most beautiful song of this century's first decade. The Gourds, perennially unpredictable, include several gorgeous, slower tunes here, from the plaintive "Steeple Full of Swallows" to the sashaying "Moon Gone Down," and the aching "Last Letters." But these Texans are old-school itinerants, invoking wide-prarie country and Cajun and sloppy bar-room cow punk in equal measures--witness the Tom Waits-tinged "Dr. Spivey" for one growly-blues, off-center example. Jimmy Smith's "A Few Extra Kilos" plays on the boozy, aging-body refrain of "spillage in the morning and again in the night," a mid-tempo paean to the torso expanding beyond its younger self. For the high-stepping, up-kicking Cajun touches, Smith steps back up to the mic for "All in the Pack" and Russell throws in the potentially politically incorrect "Cranky Mulatto," all of which is grand. Make no mistake, however: "Promenade" alone is worth the cost of admission. Treat yourself. --Andrew Bartlett

Average customer rating:

Great for the road
Beethoven 25 Favorites
25 Beethoven Favorites
bEtHoVeN mAnIaC
Great Price...Not so good itself

25 Beethoven Favorites

Manufacturer: Vox (Classical)
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Ballets | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Ecossaises | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Trios | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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

4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

25 Mozart Favorites
25 Bach Favorites
25 Tchaikovsky Favorites
25 Vivaldi Favorites
25 Classical Favorites

ASIN: B0000058HX
Release Date: 1996-08-20

Tracks:

Egmont Overture - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Symphony No. 5 In C Minor - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Piano Sonata No. 21 In C Major - Alfred Brendel
Piano Sonata No. 14 In C Sharp Minor - Jerome Rose
Piano Sonata No. 8 In C Minor - Jerome Rose
Piano Sonata No. 23 In F Minor - Jerome Rose
Symphony No. 6 In F Major - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Symphony No. 7 In A Major - Ludwig Van Beethoven
'The Creatures Of Prometheus' Ballet - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Violin Concerto In D Major - Susanne Lautenbacher
Sonata For Violin And Piano No. 5 In F Major - Aaron Rosand
Piano Trio In B Flat - Mannheimer Trio
Fse - Various Artists
Quintet In E Flat For Piano And Winds - Abbey Simon
'Chorale Fantasy' In C Minor For Piano, Chorus And Orchestra - Walter Klien
Piano Concerto No. 2 In B Flat - Alfred Brendel
Piano Concerto No. 3 In C Minor - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Piano Concerto No. 4 In G Major - Alfred Brendel
Piano Concerto No. 5 In E Flat - Alfred Brendel
Symphony No. 3 In E Flat - Ludwig Van Beethoven
'The Ruins Of Athens,' - Ludwig Van Beethoven
'Corolian,' - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Ecossaise For Piano - Alfred Brendel
Symphony No. 9 In D Minor - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Symphony No. 9 In D Minor - Ludwig Van Beethoven

Customer Reviews:

Great for the road.......2007-05-11

I found this to be a nice collection of favorites, especially to keep in the car and listen to. It is a variety of well known compilations. Although not encompassing, it is perfect as a review for driving, relaxing, and enjoyment. Plus, the price is right!

Beethoven 25 Favorites.......2006-11-21

Very good! I ordered it especially for Piano Sonata No. 8 Pathetique

25 Beethoven Favorites.......2006-11-05

Good overview of his works----an introduction into his depth as a composer

bEtHoVeN mAnIaC.......2005-11-03

[...] Honestly, it isn't THAT THAT great, but its good enough for its price. I'd say that your $ pays off, for a while. I've noticed how after a long time, it gets aggrivating at times. No harm meant, "Beethoven lover". I just mean don't plunge into this cd with all the hopes in the world. Besides, it's just my opinion, so you may like it more than me. All i can say is; a) listen to some samples before you buy, b)know this is not REALLY the great Beethoven himself, and c) enjoy YOUR music, whatever it may be.

Great Price...Not so good itself.......2005-05-19

This a great priced cd, but the content is why it is so cheap. It's a true-amateur album. Beethoven Lover is over her/his head. This is the real world, not a fantasy-everyone-likes-every-type-of-music world. Deal with it and agree with me. It isn't so great.

Beethoven: The Complete Symphonies and Piano Concertos

Average customer rating:

Great Performance
Great Analog Beethoven Cycle
An essential collection
The best value in classical music on CD at the moment...
Wonderful Performances

Beethoven: The Complete Symphonies and Piano Concertos

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Ballets | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Quartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Classical | Box Sets | Stores | Music

Blowout Box Sets | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

More Titles at Least 20% Off | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

Beethoven - The Complete String Quartets / Alban Berg Quartet
Mozart:The Complete Piano Sonatas and Variations
Beethoven: Complete Piano Sonatas / Daniel Barenboim
Dvorák: The Symphonies
Furtwangler Conducts Beethoven - Beethoven: symphonies no 3,4,5, & 9, Leonore

ASIN: B00004YA0S
Release Date: 2000-11-07

Tracks:

I: Adagio Molto - Allegro Con Brio
II: Andante Cantabile Con Moto
III: Menuetto & Trio: Allegro Molto E Vivace
IV: Adagio - Allegro Molto E Vivace
I: Allegro Ma Non Troppo
II: Andante Molto Mosso
III: Allegro - In Tempo D'allegro - Tempo I
IV: Allegro
V: Allegretto

Tracks:

I: Allegro Con Brio
II: Marcia Funebre: Adagio Assai
III: Scherzo & Trio: Allegro Vivace
IV: Finale: Allegro Molto - Poco Andante - Presto
Gross Fuge

Tracks:

I: Adagio Molto - Allegro Con Brio
II: Larghetto
III: Scherzo & Trio: Allegro
IV: Allegro Molto
I: Allegro Con Brio
II: Andante Con Moto - Piu Mosso - Tempo I
III: Allegro -
IV: Allegro - Presto

Tracks:

I: Adagio - Allegro Vivace
II: Adagio
III: Menuetto: Allegro Vivace - Trio: Un Poco Meno Allegro
IV: Allegro Ma Non Troppo
I: Poco Sostenuto - Vivace
II: Allegretto
III: Presto - Assai Meno Presto
IV: Allegro Con Brio

Tracks:

I: Allegro Vivace Con Brio
II: Allegretto Scherzando
III: Tempo Di Menuetto
IV: Allegro Vivace
Overture
Overture
Overture
Overture

Tracks:

I: Allegro Non Troppo, Un Poco Maestoso - Christa Ludwig
II: Molto Vivace - Presto - Christa Ludwig
III: Adagio Molto E Cantabile - Andante Moderato - Christa Ludwig
IV: Presto - Recitativo - Allegro Assai - Alla Marcia - Christa Ludwig
Overture - Christa Ludwig

Tracks:

I: Allegro Con Brio
II: Largo
III: Rondo: Allegro Scherzando
I: Allegro Con Brio
II: Adagio
III: Rondo: Molto Allegro

Tracks:

I: Allegro Con Brio
II: Largo
III: Rondo: Allegro
I: Allegro Moderato
II: Andante Con Moto
III: Rondo: Vivace

Tracks:

Fantasia For Piano, Chorus And Orchestra
I: Allegro
II: Adagio Un Poco Mosso -
III: Rondo: Allegro

Amazon.com essential recording

Otto Klemperer's Beethoven is one of the towering achievements in the history of recordings. By today's standards, these performances are hopelessly old-fashioned: dark, heavy, and frequently very slow. But they are also the grandest, most unsentimental, most purposeful versions in the catalog. In addition, the relatively slow tempos (only in the fast movements--the slow ones are pretty swift) and forward wind balance permit more detail to be heard than in most original-instrument performances. At budget price and with the entire piano concerto cycle thrown in for good measure, this is greatness incarnate. --David Hurwitz

Customer Reviews:

Great Performance.......2007-07-07

There are many different ways to perform Beethoven and each one is valid.
If you like it fast - go to Toscanini or Norrington. If you prefer slow, powerful and majestic, this is your set. Towards the end of his distinguished career, the great Otto Klemperer set down his final views of the performance of these symphonnies. The set is a coherent whole and will give great pleasure for ever. The challenging mix of the young Barenboim and the aged Klemperer worked surprisingly well and thus the concertos may also be recommended. There are odd additional items which add to the pleasure. Finally do not forget to purchase his memorable set of 'Fidelio' to complete your traversal of a great conductor giving great performances of a composer that he loved. Finally the price is ridiculously low and provides quality and quantity at a great price. Thus you should be able to buy the opera set from the savings made!

Great Analog Beethoven Cycle.......2007-05-07

This Klemperer cycle is just one of a dozen or so GREAT analog Beethoven symphony cycles that were recorded during Analog's golden age starting about 1958. These cycles are easily a match for digital and they should still be around for another 1,000 years, if the Lord tarries. These sets include: Karajan (twice, early 60s and late 70s) Bohm, Krips, Jochum, Bruno Walter, Leinsdorf, Rene Leibowitz, Szell, Ormandy, Bernstein, Steinberg, and Solti. This morning I listened to the Klemperer recordings of Beethoven's symphonies 5, 6, & 7. Very enjoyable, I got my Beethoven RDA fix.

Of all these Analog sets, I most enjoy the Leibowitz Spring 1961 cycle with the Royal Philharmonic. I have this cycle on an audiophile early 90s European import Edition Phoenix label special pressing "on extra virgin vinyl." These are by far the best analog symphonic lps I have ever heard from a recording standpoint. BY FAR! And they will rock your house.

You can almost justify Karajan's 4 recorded Beethoven cycles and one video based upon improvements in recording technology. Thru Rhapsody, I have listened to his mid 50s cycle and the orchestra sounds great, but the recording quality is sub par compared to Analog's golden age. So the rational for 4 cycles would be, (1) recent great improvements in recording technology (early 60s), (2) it has been 15 years and he has grown as an artist (late 70s), (3) we now have digital! Let's do one of the first Beethoven digital cycles (80s).

Klemperer is a no-brainer. I do not have to think twice about plopping one of his lps onto my turntable or hitting the play button at Rhapsody. When the music starts, the listening pleasure begins. Don't miss his Bruckner symphony recordings!

An essential collection.......2007-04-25

How best to describe Otto Klemperer's perspective on Beethoven's symphonies: grand, heroic, intense, insightful, stubborn, obstinate, detailed, dramatic, monumental, granitic, deeply emotional, never sentimental. This boxed set of the complete symphonies and concerti embodies all of these elements as stands as one of the great achievements of recorded music.

These performances were recorded with the Philharmonia Orchestra at its peak, in the sumptuous acoustics of Kingsway Hall in London and in fine and detailed sound, and mostly in the mid-1950's during one of the brief charmed periods of Klemperer's life. EMI's impresario Walter Legge had made him permanent conductor of the Philharmonia, and when Klemperer embarked on this project in his 70's, he was in relatively good mental and physical health (Klemperer could show symptoms of manic depression and survived many health crises - brain tumor, broken bones, paralysis - which would have stopped most people).

By this time Klemperer had slowed the tempi of the fast movements of the Beethoven symphonies (listen to his early 1950's recordings of the 5th and 6th on Vox to hear by how much). This tendency is more pronounced in these studio recordings than in the live performances which were recorded during that era. The slowness is mostly saved by Klemperer's use of "sprung" rhythms, which keep the slow tempi from feeling laggardly.

Klemperer's earliest recordings in this series - symphonies 3, 5 and 7 - predate stereo and were recorded in excellent monaural sound. He rerecorded all three of these symphonies in stereo, but those recordings were made after he burned himself by falling asleep while smoking in bed. All three performances feature slower tempi than the earlier ones (whether this was the conductor's preference or the result of physical incapacity is open to conjecture). In particular, the rerecorded 7th suffered from lax phrasing, inattentiveness and perverse tempi. That is NOT the version contained in this set: fortunately, EMI had simultaneously recorded the earlier version of the 7th in "experimental" stereo, and it is that earlier version which is released here (and in remarkably good stereo). The versions of the 3rd and 5th are the rerecorded stereo ones.

You will find no finer studio versions of the 2nd, 4th, 6th, 7th or 8th. All are insightful, beautifully detailed and powerful. The 2nd clearly looks forward to the 3rd and not back toward Hayden, the 4th is boisterous and vital, the 6th bucolic and sumptuous (not a quality normally associated with Klemperer), the 7th gains in drama what it loses in swiftness and lightness, and in the 8th in particular we see the conductor's empathy to Beethoven's sense of humor. Klemperer had a deep affinity for the "Eroica", and the rerecorded version here, while slower than the 1955 recording, was dubbed by "High Fidelity"'s Harris Goldsmith (no Klemperer fan, he) as "the best Eroica going slow" and is a monumental masterpiece (the second movement is shattering). The 1st, while leisurely, is a lovingly crafted.

That leaves the 5th and 9th. There is no doubt in my mind that the earlier, mono 5th is superior to the remake in this set. We lose that sense of an inevitable onslaught, especially in the outer movements. And the 9th, while similar in conception to the live versions recorded around the same time (on Testament with the Philharmonia and on Music&Arts with the Concertgebouw), suffers from diffuse sound and occasional lack of focus. I emphasize that these recordings of both symphonies are still head and shoulders above most of the competition; we're talking about different levels of greatness here.

Are there superior Klemperer recordings of these symphonies? Yes; but all are live, and despite the relatively good reprocessed sound, they don't reveal the same level of detail that these studio recordings do. Klemperer was a very different conductor in front of an audience, and there is more vitality and drama in the live versions of the 3rd (Testament, with the Danish Symphony), 6th 7th and 8th (Music&Arts with the Concertgebouw) and the 9th (see above). Music&Arts' set of the complete symphonies, recorded live in Vienna in 1960, is long out of print and had cramped sound with poor detail - a supplement to this set, not a replacement.

As to the piano concerti: they are better than one might expect. Barenboim, although steeped in the Germanic performance tradition, is more naturally aligned with the Furtwangler and Edwin Fischer than with Klemperer. However, the two of them actually work together extremely well and this is a fine, insightful set.

Any complete cycle of Beethoven, symphonies or concerti, will have drawbacks. There will be unevenness in the performances, as there are here. But there are advantages to hearing one musician's perspective on the works, especially when (as here) the performer has depth of understanding, integrity of vision, and a structural understanding of the pieces.

The digital remastering is excellent and the sound barely shows its age. This may not be your only complete set of Beethoven's symphonies, but it should be one of them. And at a price this low, it's a bargain too.

The best value in classical music on CD at the moment..........2007-01-02

What is the best value in classical discs available today ? Who knows, but I defy anyone to beat the EMI compilation of Klemperer' recordings of the complete Beethoven Symphonies, Piano Concertos (with Barenboim), several overtures the Choral Fantasia etc etc. 9 discs for only $44 ( well that was the price I paid). You have got to be kidding... I only had two concerns with buying this. First on the age of the recordings, all more than 40 years old. No worry at all. This is a masterpiece of reconstruction. The sound quality indistinguishable from any modern recording. Secondly , the performances themselves. I had been warned that Klemperer notoriously chose rather slow tempi. Again I needn't have worried. I immediately went to the slow movements of the 2nd piano concerto and the fourth symphony, where many slow tempists have in the past come unstuck. The piano concerto was an absolute revelation. The combination of the youthful Barenboim and the Philharmonia's masterful playing time and gain had me on the edge of my seat. " Yes,go on, well...." Slow it may have been. Boring, never. The same applies in spades to the slow movement of the fourth. Right from the eerie opening, which is yes, very slow indeed, I knew this movement would be a revelation and I can honestly say I have never hear it better played. Follow this with a scherzo bounding in energy and thumping finale and you will never get a better performance of this, one of Beethoven's "lesser" symphonies. And I haven't even got round to the "biggies" yet! The box set looks unattractive and the portrait of Klemperer makes him appear a first class nerd. Pay absolutely no attention to this....

Wonderful Performances.......2006-04-07

I have admittedly not made it through the entire set as of yet, but feel sufficiently blown away by the First Symphony and the Eroica - particularly the second movement of the latter - to weigh in here. With respect to the tempo issue, I must - at least so far - argue in favor of Klemperer's decision to slow things down a bit. I think the effect is, as someone else has observed, a clearer and more visceral experience of Beethoven's composition. It brings out the feeling. The sound comes up a little short on the low end, but it isn't a major distraction. My only problem lies in EMI's inexplicable lack of any discussion of the performances. The notes are bland, dry descriptions of the pieces themselves, with some basic history thrown in. Given the fact that there are probably hundreds of different CDs of Beethoven's symphonies out there, all with similar explanatory notes, it is infuriating that nothing is said about these particular performances. This is in contrast with the EMI Bach set (with Yehudi Menuhin) in which there is a wonderful essay that discusses Menuhin's work in historical context.

Average customer rating:

Beethoven for Babies
Nicest classical CD I have found for my baby (& me)
Ode To Beethoven
Pseudoscientific crap, but some of the music is good here
Nicest classical music CD I've found for my baby (& me)

Beethoven for Babies

Manufacturer: Philips
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Ballets | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Quartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

$9.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Bach for Babies
The Mozart Effect - Music for Babies - Playtime to Sleepytime
Build Your Baby's Brain
Mozart for Mothers-To-Be: Tender Lullabies for Mother and Child
The Mozart Effect: Music For Babies: Nighty Night

ASIN: B000009OU6
Release Date: 1998-08-11

Tracks:

Six National Airs With Variations, Op. 105: The Cottage Maid (Welsh)
Six National Airs With Variations, Op. 105: The Last Rose Of Summer (Irish)
Six National Airs With Variations, Op. 105: Chiling O'Guirg (Irish)
Six National Airs With Variations, Op. 105: English Bulls (Irish)
Ten National Airs With Variations, Op. 107: St. Patrick's Day (Irish)
Ten National Airs With Variations, Op. 107: O Mary, At The Window Be (Scottish)
Ten National Airs With Variations, Op. 107: Oh, Thou Are The Lad Of My Heart (Scottish)
Ten National Airs With Variations, Op. 107: Fur Elise
Ten National Airs With Variations, Op. 107: Piano Sonata No. 8 In C Minor ('Pathetique') - Adagio cantabile
Ten National Airs With Variations, Op. 107: String Quartet No. 13 In B-Flat - Alla Danza Tedesca. Allegro assai
Ten National Airs With Variations, Op. 107: Piano Sonata No. 7 In D - Menuetto (Allegro)
Ten National Airs With Variations, Op. 107: The Creatures Of Prometheus - Finale. Allegretto
Ten National Airs With Variations, Op. 107: Piano Sonata No. 18 In E-Flat - Menuetto (Moderato e grazioso)
Ten National Airs With Variations, Op. 107: Piano Sonata No. 20 In G - Tempo di menuetto
Ten National Airs With Variations, Op. 107: Symphony No. 8 In F - Allegro scherzando
Ten National Airs With Variations, Op. 107: Symphony No. 9 In D Minor ('Choral') - Ode To Joy
Ten National Airs With Variations, Op. 107: Piano Sonata No. 15 In D ('Pastoral') - Rondo (Allegro ma non troppo)
Ten National Airs With Variations, Op. 107: Symphony No. 6 In F ('Pastoral') - Hymn Of Thanksgiving

Amazon.com

For the parent looking to ease their child into a familiarity with classical music, this is a very well chosen set of Beethoven works. It begins with a generous selection of airs composed late in the composer's life. The presence of the flute as the lead instrument on these selections has a soothing quality that moves the ear in an ideally subtle way, especially as it gives way to the more excited piano sonata pieces. Zoltán Kocsis's reading of "Pathétique" is followed by Claudio Arrau's take on the 7th, 15th, and 18th sonatas and Sviatoslav Richter's lyrical take on the 20th ("Pastoral"). Programmed amidst the piano pieces, which are great studies in dynamics and musical spacing, are some fine orchestral snippets, none longer than five minutes. The collection does a fine balancing act, condensing works that don't inherently lend themselves to shortened renditions and carefully managing moods, entry, and egress to each segment. This is fine anthology work. --Andrew Bartlett

Customer Reviews:

Beethoven for Babies.......2007-05-21

My baby and I really enjoy this CD. It is so fun to feel the baby get excited when I play it. I have a pillow speaker and just place it right up against my stomach. It evens helps me to get in a nap or just rest for a while.

Nicest classical CD I have found for my baby (& me).......2005-09-01

This is a very pleasant CD to listen to, and I think the quality of the music is excellent. I enjoy listening to this with my 10 month old son, and we also listen to the radio and lots of modern music. I recently purchased 5 of the classical "Baby Einstein" CDs and I consider them to be inferior to this Beethoven for Babies CD. The Baby Einstein are very synthesized sounding and I think they are annoyingly mellow and kind of dopey. This Beethoven CD is beautiful. In fact I'm going to buy 1 or 2 more from this series.

Ode To Beethoven.......2005-05-13

The actual reason I bought this cd is for "Fur Elise" but it turned out to be much more than I bargained for. Before road rage sets in while sitting in a traffic jam during rush hour, play this. If you need to take it easy and escape from your reality, play this. Need something to play at work that's not explicit or offensive, play this. Of course, it's not Beethoven himself, but if you need some quiet time, play this. Even while you read, you could play this. If you want some authenticity to your collection, get Beethoven for Babies.

Pseudoscientific crap, but some of the music is good here.......2004-05-27

The 3 stars is only because the hucksters that put this together at least had the decency to tracks featuring Arrau & Richter on this CD. A lot of these "turn your baby into a genius with classical music" CDs and tapes feature only lousy musical performances from hack musicians you have never heard of.

That having been said, if you are stupid enough to believe any of this "Mozart Effect" horse manure --- which continues to have no support in any sort of controlled test environment --- then your babies will probably inherit your limited intellectual capacities & no amount of Beethoven & Mozart will ever be able to help them.

If, on the other hand, you are introducing Junior to classical music, you could do worse --- but you could also do better. Go get Arrau's complete Beethoven sonatas & concerti, get the Berg Quartett's complete Beethoven quartet cycle, and get John Eliot Gardiner's complete Beethoven symphonies --- just for a start. Also, don't stop with Beethoven & Mozart. My 9-month old daughter gets a diverse exposure to a thousand years of music, and very little is off limits. She got acquainted with the Bartok Quartets within her first couple of months, and it doesn't look like we have created an axe murderer or anything like that.

Anyway, if you want to create a classical music lover, do it right and go the distance, rather than doing it piecemeal with CDs like this. Your baby may still be a moron, but at least will be a moron with exquisite taste.

Nicest classical music CD I've found for my baby (& me).......2003-11-23

Average customer rating:

One of their best.
The Heaviest Kiss Album
Best Since Alive!
Metal giant....
KISS Was Back In Action!

Creatures of the Night
Kiss
Manufacturer: Island / Mercury
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

General | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music

Pop Metal | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music

Hard Rock | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music

Album-Oriented Rock (AOR) | Classic Rock | Styles | Music

General | Classic Rock | Styles | Music

Arena Rock | Classic Rock | Styles | Music

$7.99 and Under | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

Pop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

Classic Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

Alternative Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

$7.99 and Under | Prices | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

4-for-3 Classic Rock | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music

4-for-3 Hard Rock & Metal | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | 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:

Lick It Up
Animalize
Asylum
Dynasty
Music from "The Elder"

ASIN: B000001ELR
Release Date: 1997-10-07

Tracks:

Creatures Of The Night
Saint And Sinner
Keep Me Comin'
Rock And Roll Hell
Danger
I Love It Loud
I Still Love You
Killer
War Machine

Album Description

Digitally remastered Japanese reissue of their 1982 album ina miniaturized LP sleeve limited to the initial pressingonly. Nine tracks, including 'I Love It Loud' & the titlecut. 1998 Mercury release.

Customer Reviews:

One of their best........2007-06-12

This CD sounds so great and it has the original cover so that makes it even better. KISS really is excellent on this one.

The Heaviest Kiss Album.......2007-06-02

This record kicks major major butt. I'll always remember the video for "I Love it Loud". Eric Carr's drums are unbelieveable on this record. This record still did not sell well because Kiss wasn't cool in 1982. This album has grown by legend since it came out. It will always be remembered as the last make-up album (until Psycho Circus). But all of the attention is warrented because this record IS that good. The lyrical content is somehow cooler and more serious than ever before. "Saint and Sinner", "War MAchine" - these songs sound like Kiss, but like Kiss on steroids. The title track from Paul is great...the whole thing is great. I just get depressed over it because later we found out that Ace didn't really play on it and it was to be his last record until the reunion. This will also always be one of my favorite album covers. On the Rock the Nation tour, they finally played "War Machine" again and it really rocked. I only wish they would have continued to make albums that sounded like this one in the 80s, but it wasn't to be.

Best Since Alive!.......2007-05-13

This is easily KISS's best studio album, ever. It is obvious who they are showcasing here.........ERIC CARR! Precise, intricate, thunderous drumming. From the "Immigrant Song" influenced "Creatures of the Night", to the simultaneously played bass drums on "I Love It Loud". There are no fillers. And yes, Ace is not on the album. But the session players
captured Ace's groove. Even Vinnie is holding back. Ever listen to his (Vinnie's) soloing on his Invasion albums? He sounds like a madman hyped up on caffiene. Not on this album however. All the solo's are tastefully executed. It just might be Ace. Just stare at that great album cover and think of the glory days. It is Ace.

The production is second to none. Thick, heavy, ambient drums. Like your playing in an empty gymnasium. THUNDER GOD! Who wouldn't want that! That is, if your into heavy, hard rock. Peter Criss could have never pulled this off.

I consider myself a Kiss fan through thick n' thin (at least up to Crazy Nights). Whether it's the poppy melodies of Unmasked,or the concept album, Music From The Elder, Creatures is by far their most sonically sound endeavor.

Metal giant...........2007-04-18

This is definitely the powerhouse album Kiss wanted. From the opening of "Creatures..." to the final chords of "War Machine" it is obvious this was a very focused and well produced album by a band on a mission. Not one weak link in this line up. I think that this was also the real unveiling on Eric Carr to the world as to how much of a dynamo he was behind the drums. He does play on 'The Elder', but he really is unleashed on this one. His drumming dominates the album, and in a way that does not overshadow or drown out the rest of the band. As far as the guitar playing goes you really won't miss Ace. He'll always be the original and considered their best, but on this album the session players(to include Vinnie Vincent) greatly filled the void left by Ace's departure.
The heavy style of playing would be continued on their next album, 'Lick It Up' and would reemerge on 1992's 'Revenge'. Unfortunately, for the latter, Eric Carr would not be around to perform due to his passing, from cancer, in 1991.
This album ranks as my #1 Kiss record.

KISS Was Back In Action!.......2006-11-10

This was KISS' last studio album with makeup for quite some time. Even though Ace Frehley is pictured on the album cover, he didn't contribute anything to the album. The two lead guitarists on this album are Bob Kulick and Vincent Cusano (Vinnie Vincent). They both did excellent work, and Vincent even wrote on the album. The album only has nine tracks, but all of them ROCK! Listen to all of them, and be prepared to be blown away.

Average customer rating:

When David Byrne Went Solo, He Lost All The Good Harmonies
"Little Creatures": Memorable, great pop from 'Heads.
Only half the songs are great
Grand kids
Take you there Take you there

Little Creatures
Talking Heads
Manufacturer: Warner Bros / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

New Wave | New Wave & Post-Punk | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

Post-Punk | New Wave & Post-Punk | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

General | Pop | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

Album-Oriented Rock (AOR) | Classic Rock | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Speaking in Tongues
Remain in Light
More Songs About Buildings and Food
Naked
Fear of Music

ASIN: B000002L80
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

And She Was
Give Me Back My Name
Creatures Of Love
The Lady Don't Mind
Perfect World
Stay Up Late
Walk It Down
Television Man
Road To Nowhere

Amazon.com

Having spent the early '80s in a giddy expansion of the sound and scale of their studio recordings and concerts, Talking Heads come full circle with this 1985 album, retracting to the core quartet and restoring a focus on David Byrne's knotty songs. Arriving in the wake of the fevered rhythms of Speaking in Tongues and Stop Making Sense, Little Creatures's new material sounds freshly lyrical, remarkably concise, even subdued, but there's the usual whimsy--the levitating heroine of the jangling, punchy opener, "And She Was," the cracked child-rearing advice of "Stay Up Late," and the galloping, anthemic reminder that we're on the "Road to Nowhere." --Sam Sutherland

Album Details

David Byrne and Co.'s Follow Up to the Platinum Selling "Speaking in Tongues" and the Live "Stop Making Sense" Albums Offered their Most Pop Oriented Album Ever. This Edition Includes the Bonus Track of a 12" Version of "The Lady Don't Mind".

Customer Reviews:

When David Byrne Went Solo, He Lost All The Good Harmonies.......2007-05-08

This album is beautiful because of the vocal harmonies provided by Tina Weymouth. She was a perfect counterpart to David Byrne's odd voice. When he went solo, he lost all of this.

Hands down, my favorite song on the album is Road To Nowhere. The vocal harmonies are delicious and the song reminds me of the awesome video that they created for the song.

"Little Creatures": Memorable, great pop from 'Heads........2006-12-24

I actually came across this album a couple years ago, but at the time I only really payed attention to the big hit, "And She Was." Then I checked it out again, and realized that each of these songs is catchy and solid. Sure, it's not as quirky or goofy as moments in older releases, but that doesn't mean it doesn't have greatness. It does. The album especially has a good album-ending punch with "Television Man" and "Road to Nowhere." "Road" was actually pretty unconventional compared to the remainder of the album even though it was one of the hits from the album. And yes, David Byrne sings more mid-range here. He actually does sound British at points, like in the chorus of "Creatures of Love." Quirky lyrics like "I've seen sex and I think it's okay" and "I wanna make him stay up all night" make the album memorable. It may not be an elitist favorite but it still connects to younger people, including me, a fan who isn't even 20 yet.

Only half the songs are great.......2006-12-14

This is an important piece but not 100% good. I only liked 4 songs.

Grand kids.......2006-11-10

Well my first Grand child is 5 months old and needs some good music to listen to........."Baby, Baby please let me hold you I wanna keep him up all night!" I want kids to know about the Talking Heads as their songs served me well raising my Grandsons father He still remembers David Bryne in the Big Suit on Stop Making Sense.

Take you there Take you there.......2006-08-04

I am instantly transported back to 1985. Snappy intelligent pop from a great band.

Average customer rating:

She makes Momma's and toddler's DANCE!
Catchy, Beautiful
Beautiful Music!!!
Great CD for adults and kids

Fascinating Creatures
Frances England
Manufacturer: Fascinating Creatures
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Children's Music | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

You Are My Little Bird
The Great Adventures of Mr. David
Tall And Small
Bear Snores On... and More Stories to Celebrate the Seasons (Scholastic Video Collection)
Animal Crackers

ASIN: B000I5YEXQ
Release Date: 2006-05-31

Tracks:

Sometimes
Tricycle
Paint a Picture
Fascinating Creatures
Daddy-O
Busy as a Bee
Charlie Parker
Digging in the Dirt
Where Do they Go?
The Books I like to Read
Blue Canoe
Blueberry Pancakes
Little Bright Star

Product Description

A unique blend of folk and indie influences merge to create an album that will charm both parents and children.

Customer Reviews:

She makes Momma's and toddler's DANCE!.......2007-06-06

This newcomer on the children's music scene.....rocks! She could be likened to Elizabeth Mitchell in some ways, but her lyrics distinguish her from anyone else I've heard. My little boy loves the second cut...."Tricycle." And I have to say that "The tour de france in your underpants," (on your tricycle) is such a tummy buster! So much fun! BUY it and several copies today!

Catchy, Beautiful.......2007-05-30

This cd has simple, beautiful lyrics and it isn't obnoxious in any way, which is a big bonus in a kids' cd. I LOVE this cd and so does my 2 year old son.

Beautiful Music!!!.......2006-10-03

My 2 yr. old and I love this CD. I never get tired of listening to it.

Great CD for adults and kids.......2006-09-13

We got this CD as a gift when we had our daughter and we just love it. The lyrics are magical and the music and folksy and fun to listen to. My husband and I listen to it regardless of whether our daughter is around!

Average customer rating:

Great value!

The Story of Beethoven

Manufacturer: Vox (Classical)
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Ballets | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Dances | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Minuets | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Inventions | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Children's Music | Styles | Music

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

4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

The Story of Mozart
The Story of Bach
The Story of Tchaikovsky
The Story Of Handel
Story Of Chopin In Words And Music

ASIN: B000001KCZ
Release Date: 1995-04-16

Tracks:

Tempo Di Minuetto - Guiomar Novaes
Bach: Two-Part Invention No. 9 - Guiomar Novaes
Minuet in G Major, Wo0 8, 10/2 - Guiomar Novaes
German Dances, Wo0 8, Nos. 1 & 2 - Arthur Hannes
Sonatina, Anh. 5/2 - Guiomar Novaes
Appassionata - Guiomar Novaes
Overture to 'To Creatures of Prometheus,' Op. 43 - Arthur Hannes
Andante Con Moto - Arthur Hannes
Emperor - Guiomar Novaes
Andante Ma Non Troppo - Guiomar Novaes
Allegro Con Brio; Marcia Funebre - Arthur Hannes
Allegro Con Brio; Allegro - Arthur Hannes
Poco Sostenuto - Arthur Hannes
Pastorale (Excerpts) - Arthur Hannes
Allegretto - Arthur Hannes
Leonore Overture No. 3, Op. 72 - Arthur Hannes
Coriolan Overture, Op. 62 - Arthur Hannes
Adagio Sostenuto; Presto Agitato - Guiomar Novaes
Allegro Ma Non Troppo; Presto - Guiomar Novaes
Allegro - Guiomar Novaes
Adagio Un Poco Mosso - Guiomar Novaes
Rondo: Allegro - Guiomar Novaes

Customer Reviews:

Great value!.......2007-01-04

Though I haven't listened to all of the CD's in this series which I ordered, I am very impressed with the ones I have listened to. Very enjoyable and informative, and the price couldn't be any lower!!!

Average customer rating:

One of Parkening's Finest
Music that perfectly touches the soul ...
The end of a Search
Simple, yet delightful, Gifts!
Exquisite & Divine

Simple Gifts: Christopher Parkening
Christopher Parkening , Johann Sebastian Bach , Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart , Engelbert Humperdinck , traditional , Gordon Young , John Rowland , Ronald Ravenscroft , and John Hughes
Manufacturer: Angel Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Cantatas | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Gospel | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Solo Instrumental | New Age | Styles | Music

$9.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Christopher Parkening plays Bach
In the Spanish Style / Christopher Parkening
Christopher Parkening - The Great Recordings ~ By America's Preeminent Guitar Virtuoso
Grace Like A River - Christopher Parkening
Jubilation

ASIN: B000002SJJ
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

Cantata No. 29: Praludium
Our Great Savior
God of Grace and God of Glory
Bretheren, We Have Met To Worship
Deep River
Jesus, We Want To Meet
Hanel & Gretel: Evening Prayer
Hymn of Christian Joy
Simple Gifts
Fairest Lord Jesus
Stir Thy Church, O God Our Father
All Creatures of Our God and King
Quartet, Op. 79 No. 3: Variations On 'Glorious Things Of Thee Are Spoken'
Solemn Vespers, K. 339: Praise Ye The Lord

Customer Reviews:

One of Parkening's Finest.......2007-01-16

A beautiful and contemplative solo guitar recording of hymns, spirituals and other sacred works such as Mozart's Laudate Dominum and Humperdinck's Evening Prayer. Parkening is in exceptional form, the transcriptions are superb, and the recording itself is of the highest quality. Little wonder this has been an enduring classic since its release in the early 1980s.

Music that perfectly touches the soul ..........2005-10-24

Christopher Parkening is the most musically inventive person playing the classical guitar today; you must purchase this CD if you haven't already. It contains exquisitely beautiful hymns & sacred music (arranged perfectly for guitar, I might add) along with Mr. Parkenings masterful transcriptions of works by Bach, Haydn, Mozart and Humperdinck.

Above all, this is music that glorifies God and that was the ultimate purpose of creating this CD.

The end of a Search.......2005-09-23

Classsical guitar is among the top forms of music and Christopher Parkeniong is one of the greatestartists in this genre, if not the best. I had despaired at ever findinding the CD "Simple Pleasures" and was so very pleased to locate it . I am so enjoying it now. I will be back for more as funds permit.

Simple, yet delightful, Gifts!.......2005-02-21

This was one of the first CD's I purchased back in 1988, and I bought it on a whim. Of the hundreds of CD's I now own, including many genres, this one remains in my list of top 10 favorites for a number of reasons.

1. Mr. Parkening plays every song on it with remarkable technical excellence and clearly discernible passion.
2. It includes classical, folksy, and reflective material, which could create a rough flow, but Mr. Parkening moves deftly from mood to mood leaving the listener with a sense of seamless transitions.
3. Although the songs on it are all religious classics they are played without pretense, which makes it accessible to any listener and uplifting for those seeking spiritual refreshment.

In closing, the is one thing "wrong" with this CD is it's too short!

Exquisite & Divine.......2001-02-17

This treasure chest holds such jewels! The cd rushes in with the joyous energy of Bach's Praludium, allows you to reflect and catch your breath on Pritchard's Hyfrydol and Variation, and flows forward with the grace and underlying passion that makes this a precious favorite.

Mormon Tabernacle Choir: The Sound of Glory-Battle Hymn of the Republic

Average customer rating:

REAL MUSIC
White bread, well-baked in spots
This is the one!
A Must for the Sabbath
A Must for Sabbath

Mormon Tabernacle Choir: The Sound of Glory-Battle Hymn of the Republic

Manufacturer: Telarc
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Gospel | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Rock of Ages: 30 Favorite Hymns
The Mormon Tabernacle Choir's Greatest Hits: 22 Best-Loved Favorites
God Bless America
More Greatest Hits: 18 Best Loved Favorites
Songs from America's Heartland

ASIN: B00005Q5LT
Release Date: 2001-10-23

Tracks:

Praise To The Lord, The Almighty
Lead, Kindly Light
Arise, O God, And Shine
All Things Bright And Beautiful
Sweet Hour Of Prayer
The Lord Is My Shepherd
The King Of Love My Shepherd Is
All Creatures Of Our God And King
Take Time To Be Holy
The Spirit Of God Like A Fire Is Burning
Simple Gifts
Battle Hymn Of The Republic
Abide With Me; 'Tis Eventide
Sing Praise To Him
Come, Thou Fount Of Every Blessing
I Need Thee Every Hour
Love Divine, All Loves Excelling

Customer Reviews:

REAL MUSIC.......2007-01-16

THIS IS MUSIC YOU CAN LISTEN TO EVERY DAY AND ENJOY OVER AND OVER AGAIN.

White bread, well-baked in spots.......2005-08-12

The Mormon Tabernacle Choir that performs on this disc is a tightly-knit, well-conducted unit, and some of the tracks on the disc border on the ethereal. "Lead, Kindly Light," "Sweet Hour of Prayer" (in parts) and "The King of Love My Shepherd Is," for example, touch the soul and bring tears to the eyes.

However, on other arrangements the choir sounds like a group of white folks far removed from the remainder of humanity. For example, the opening track, "Praise to the Lord, the Almighty," and also "All Creatures of Our God and King" sound rote and perfunctory, like a group of elementary school students (with very fine voices, to be sure) going through the paces of a daily sing: elevator music on a grand scale. At the opposite extreme, sudden dynamic shifts in other tracks sound pretentious. The final bars of "All Creatures of Our God and King" suggest an attempt at a grand finale, but lack even a hint of majesty or passion. The choir lacks any apparent understanding of the Shaker spirit in "Simple Gifts" --- rather like Lawrence Welk playing Bob Marley. (Not that I've ever seen a Shaker in dreadlocks.) "Battle Hymn of the Republic" begins majestically, but turns into a caricature, and then reverts to a semblance of glory (except for a brief flirtation with a minor key).

The high praise lavished on this disc by other reviewers is no surprise: It is of very high quality for what it is. The choir offers a lovely sound. However, more than half the tracks are seriously flawed, and the musicianship is sufficiently peculiar on the whole as to lower the rating considerably.

This is the one!.......2002-08-24

If you want to hear the best of the best, this CD is it. These hymn arrangements are just beautiful and very touching. I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys the choir and wants to feel a little closer to heaven. The choir seems to sing literally with one voice and you feel like they are singing just for you. Congratulations to the new conductor, Craig Jessop and all those who contributed to the quality that went into producing this CD.

A Must for the Sabbath.......2002-04-17

I LOVE IT!!! What better way to enjoy the Sabbath than to sing of the Lord's Praises with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir? This album is just the ticket! It's very powerful, and uplifting.

What? You mean I can only give this album five stars? But that doesn't even BEGIN to do it justice!

I love it. Truly a masterpiece!

A Must for Sabbath.......2002-02-05

If you only own one Mormon Tabernacle Choir CD, this is the one. It has creative arrangements of many favorite hymns, as well as the best recording of the Wilhousky Battle Hymn arrgmt that I have ever come across. The only downer: it has (another) recording of Simple Gifts, which has been beat to death by choirs in the last decade.

I especially love the 'Glory' pieces on it: Full of timpani, brass, and alleluias- one of those discs you turn all the way up and direct the stereo when noone is looking. I hope my neighbors like it too; they probably hear it quite a bit.

Music:

Music