Music

  1. Have a Nice Life
  2. Mörderwerk
  3. Vempire
  4. Malice
  5. Under Moonlight We Kiss
  6. On the Eve of the Grimly Inventive
  7. Viator
  8. Starters Alternators
  9. Sourpuss
  10. Humour Me
  11. Scapegoats/Here Come the Snakes
  12. Violence Is a Girl's Best Friend
  13. Ok 1cd
  14. Transistor Blast(4cd-Box)
  15. Autocannibalism [UK-Import]
  16. Zimmer Frei
  17. Retro
  18. Touched by Jesus (1991)
  19. Roscoe's Gang [UK-Import]
  20. Engine
  21. Coup de Grace
  22. Let Them Eat Pussy
  23. Real Face
  24. .. . and the Angels Wept
  25. Best of...Plus
Gilbert & Sullivan - Highlights from The Mikado, The Pirates of Penzance, H.M.S. Pinafore, The Yeomen of the Guard, Trial of Jury
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • The Best Of Gilbert And Sullivan
  • Pure delight
  • Delicious G&S samplings abound here.
  • Fine Intro to G&S
Gilbert & Sullivan - Highlights from The Mikado, The Pirates of Penzance, H.M.S. Pinafore, The Yeomen of the Guard, Trial of Jury
Nicholas Folwell , Arthur Sullivan , Marie McLaughlin , Rebecca Evans , Anthony Rolfe Johnson , John Mark Ainsley , Alwyn Mellor , Anne Howells , Barry Banks , Eric Garrett , Felicity Palmer , Gareth Rhys Davies , Janice Watson , Julie Gossage , Neill Archer , Pamela Helen Stephen , Peter Savidge , Richard Stuart , Richard Suart , Richard Van Allan , Sir Thomas Allen [baritone] , Sir Charles Mackerras , and Welsh National Opera
Manufacturer: Telarc
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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  1. The Ultimate Gilbert & Sullivan Collection
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ASIN: B000003D1Y
Release Date: 1996-01-23

Tracks:

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

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars The Best Of Gilbert And Sullivan.......2004-03-15

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

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

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

5 out of 5 stars Pure delight.......2003-08-02

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5 out of 5 stars Delicious G&S samplings abound here........2003-05-06

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

5 out of 5 stars Fine Intro to G&S.......2000-12-30

This is the perfect CD for those who may not be familiar with G&S, or for the initiated who want a smattering but don't have the mother of all CD changers. The difficulty with any G&S Greatest Hits CD is determining which pieces to leave off; while one could easily point to any number equally good bits, it would be difficult to argue about the quality of the choices included. The only problem, such as it is, is that after listening to it I am usually induced to go back and listen to the whole opera anyway. The Mackerras recordings are uniformly excellent. I have read elsewhere the criticism that they are too 'operatic' for light opera. If by this it is meant that the singers are too good, then I leave it to the discretion of the listener when the singing becomes too good to be enjoyable.
Merry Christmas Have a Nice Life
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Merry Christmas and Have a Nice Life - Cyndi Lauper
  • You will always be Christmas to me.
  • Great For Decorating A Christmas Tree
  • Have a Celtic, Cajun, Creole and Coptic Christmas!
  • A masterpiece - pure magic
Merry Christmas Have a Nice Life
Cyndi Lauper
Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B0002S94NE
Release Date: 2004-08-24

Tracks:

  1. Home On Christmas Day
  2. Early Christmas Morning
  3. Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree
  4. Christmas Conga
  5. Minnie And Santa
  6. Feels Like Christmas
  7. Three Ships
  8. New Year's Baby (Lullaby)
  9. December Child
  10. In The Bleak Midwinter
  11. Silent Night

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Merry Christmas and Have a Nice Life - Cyndi Lauper.......2007-01-24

Love the CD - Bought it for the Christmas Conga, which is such an upbeat Christmas song..

4 out of 5 stars You will always be Christmas to me........2005-12-23

Cyndi Lauper's Christmas album is a real treat. It isn't "just another Christmas album". Seven of the eleven songs are originals that Cyndi co-wrote, and they are all fine songs. If you like Cyndi, you'll like this album.

5 out of 5 stars Great For Decorating A Christmas Tree.......2005-12-05

This is a great CD to POP in while you decorate the tree. It has the classic songs, her rock songs, her funny songs.
1.) Home on Christmas Day - A slow rock song that has the typical guitar the is a trademark of her music.
2.) Early Christmas Morning - Starts off with kids singing like if it was a Chrismas Caroll, then she comes in and adds her punk style to the album to get you in the mood.
3.) Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree - I think we all know this song, she does it with like a funky beat and he high pitched voice.
4.) Christmas Conga - Definately the best song on the cd, with her funky beats and her funny lyrics. Really should be a Christmas single. I think if radio played it, we would have a hit. Bonga Bonga Bonga do the Christmas Conga.......
5.) Minnie and Santa - Another funny song with her humor. A slow song but funny.
6.) Feels Like Christmas - Sounds like it starts off with bad quality, like she is singing live, but then starts to be another soft rock song.
7.) Three Ships - A slow song with a flute at the beginning, must be her playing. Typical Christmas but why three ships? Was the Columbus Day lol.....
8.) New Years Baby ( First Lulliby) - I have a feeling she wrote this for her song who is in the album cover. Also on the cover is santa ( or is it her husband). Anyway another good ballad.
9.) December Child - Very slow ballad, almost acoustic.
10.) In The Bleak Midwinter - Again a slow song, by this time you want more of the beginning and that is why this cd gets a 4 rating. I feel she could have more faster songs around this part of the cd.
11.) Silent Night - And finally the typical Christmas Anthem with a touch of Cyndi.
Overall a great Christmas Album. If you like Cyndi you will love the beginning of the album. Play the end when you are tired and want to take a nap. If you have any questions ask me. I love Cyndi and this is my review. I hope it was helpful, vote for me :)

5 out of 5 stars Have a Celtic, Cajun, Creole and Coptic Christmas!.......2005-11-22

When Cyndi Lauper's MERRY CHRISTMAS...HAVE A NICE LIFE was first released back in '98, I remember reading some capsule review in some popular magazine or other (maybe PEOPLE?) to the effect that it was surprisingly good, better than it "had a right to be," in fact. Huh? Is that a compliment?

I imagine the reviewer thought he was being pretty darn generous to a performer, whom he no doubt recalled as being basically a novelty act from the early MTV days. What's frustrating about reviews like this is that they seldom reference any previous recording other than SHE'S SO UNUSUAL (or, if you're lucky, TRUE COLORS). Cyndi's 90s work(HAT FULL OF STARS and SISTERS OF AVALON) had demonstrated a maturing talent (not that the "immature" stuff was bad--far from it). It's just that, had anybody been bothering to listen, they would have known that she was an artist to be taken seriously and a force to be reckoned with.

Unfortunately, too many had written her off prematurely. And by 1998, her record company was pretty much ready to show her the door. She had one record left on her contract with SONY (who hadn't been offering much in the way of support anyway). Cyndi had gone out touring in '97, opening for Tina Turner, and giving it her all while visibly pregnant...and the record company could scarcely be bothered to promote her excellent SISTERS OF AVALON. A Christmas album seemed like a handy way to meet the terms of the contract and for artist and record company to bid each other adieu.

Christmas CDs are usually lower budget affairs (I'm told) and as it happened, Cyndi already had a couple of Christmas themed tracks in the can anyway. Actually, "Feels Like Christmas" from HAT FULL OF STARS is really more of a love song than a true holiday song, but it had the Noel thing going on in the title and a nice bounce (one of the more upbeat tracks on what was otherwise Cyndi's most serious record to date). "Early Christmas Morning" had appeared on the Japanese version of SISTERS OF AVALON, so that only meant eight or nine new tracks at the most.

It could have been a knock-off, folks, but Cyndi Lauper's sense of artistry and adventure knows few if any bounds, and musically, HAVE A NICE LIFE (the title obviously being something of a kiss-off to SONY) continues to explore the same musical terrain as the previous two records. Queens born Cyndi comes by her multi-culturalism naturally, You've got a little Zydeco here, a little Island music and her version of "Silent Night" starts off with some Mid-Eastern strains, which only begs the question, why hasn't anybody done anything like this before. But that's the closer, let's go back to the beginning.

It's been said that the best Christmas music is tinged with melancholy, and Cyndi's opener "Home for Christmas Day," replete with ringing Byrds-like guitar, is something of a rock rewrite of "I'll Be Home For Christmas." (Ever notice how many holiday albums BEGIN with the latter song: Cyndi honors the tradition in her unique way by starting off with her own updated, similary themed carol.) Then it's off to Cajun-inflected "Early Christmas Morning" and Cajun-Caribbean mix on "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree (a wink and a nod to Brenda Lee--a singer she was often compared to back in the day). The fun continues with "Christmas Conga" and the winning, slightly ribald novelty "Minnie and Santa." Gradually, though, the all the spirited fun begins to give way to a more serious, solemn and (dare we say it?) spiritual mood.

Two songs in row celebrating Cyndi's recent motherhood? Why not? It might be a little much for some artists, but for one as open hearted and honest as Cyndi Lauper, it works. I've had a few "Well, I dunno about this moments" with Cyndi's ballads before (including classics like "Time After Time" and "True Colors"), but they always win me over eventually. "New Year's Baby (First Lullabye)" and "December Child" are no different, delicate songs that avoid slipping into the precious by dint of Cyndi's sheer conviction.

After starting out on such a sunny, tropical note, the album ends on an appropriately winterlike note with the Celtic flavored "In the Bleak Midwinter" and a relatively stark reading of "Silent Night." From the festive to the hauntingly fragile...Cyndi Lauper sums up the season. Definitely, not a knock-off.

Fast forward to 2003-2004, Cyndi's back with SONY (at least for now), doing the standards thing (but definitely doing them her way), and now the record company has now come out with a remastered version of this album. I haven't heard the new version yet, but it did actually seem as though this yuletide offering, delightful as it is, could have used some brightening (of sound and spirit). Looks like everyone may just be having a nice life after all.

5 out of 5 stars A masterpiece - pure magic.......2005-09-16

Some people seem to be inspired when recording Christmas albums, rising above their previous performances to record the best album of their career. I knew Cyndi was good at what she did, but had never bought any of her music until I bought this after reading some reviews. I sensed, even without hearing any tracks, that this might be one of the best Christmas albums in the history of recorded music, and I was right.
Cyndi clearly enjoys Christmas - it shows in these songs. Who could resist Cyndi's invitation to Do the Christmas conga? I also enjoyed the amusing Minnie and Santa, but all the new songs are brilliant, including Early Christmas morning, which comes complete with children's choir, used effectively and well.

Cyndi has also covered a few old chestnuts - her version of Rockin' around the Christmas tree and other classics breathes new life into them, while paying respect to the originals. Although I could have done without yet another version of Silent night, Cyndi proves here that she has the skill to do the serious stuff just as well as the fun songs. Among the other serious songs, it is particularly pleasing to see that she covered In the bleak midwinter. This is a Christmas standard in Britain, but it's rare to hear it sung by an American. Her version of this song is pure magic - as good as any version I've come across.

This album is truly one of the finest Christmas albums I have ever come across in any genre of music, and you can enjoy it either as background music, or in peace and quiet giving it undivided attention. I have since bought (and enjoyed) some of Cyndi's other music, but this is something special.

You do not need to be a Cyndi fan to enjoy this, but you might become a Cyndi fan after hearing it.
Superhits: 1966 (Time Life Music)
Average customer rating: Not rated
    Superhits: 1966 (Time Life Music)
    Bobby Hebb , Bob Lind , The Mindbenders , The Happenings , The New Vaudeville Band , The Seekers , B.J. Thomas and the Triumphs , Petula Clark , Dusty Springfield , and Gary Lewis and the Playboys
    Manufacturer: Time Life Music
    ProductGroup: Music
    Binding: Audio CD
    ASIN: B000SY0MPQ

    Product Description

    SONG LIST :1. California Dreamin - The Mamas & Papas 2. Good Vibrations - The Beach Boys 3. Sunny - Bobby Herb 4. DayDream - The Lovin' Spoonful 5. Elusive Butterfly - Bob Lind 6. You Don't Have to Say You Love Me - Dusty Springfield 7. A Groovy Kind of Love - The Mindbenders 8. Bang Bang (My Baby Shot Me Down) - Cher 9. See You in September - The Happenings 10. Message to Michael - Dionne Warwick 11. When a Man Loves a Woman - Percy Sledge 12. You Can't Hurry Love - The Surpremes 13. I'm a Believer - The Monkees 14. Sweet Talkin' Guy - The Chiffons 15. Cherish - The Associations 16. She's Just My Style - Gary Lewis & the Playboys 17. You Didn't Have to Be So Nice - The Lovin' Spoonful 18. Georgy Girl - The Seekers 19. Winchester Cathedral - The New Vaudeville Band 20. My Love - Petula Clark 21. (You're My) Soul and Inspiration - The Righteous Brothers 22. I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry - B.J.Thomas
    Merry Christmas...Have a Nice Life!
    Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    • Brighten your holidays
    • It's time to make the Christmas punch.
    • Have a Creole, Cajun, Celtic and Coptic Christmas....
    • The Best Christmas CD in Years
    • So mad at myself!
    Merry Christmas...Have a Nice Life!
    Cyndi Lauper
    Manufacturer: Sony
    ProductGroup: Music
    Binding: Audio CD

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    ASIN: B00000DFU2
    Release Date: 1998-10-27

    Tracks:

    1. Home On Christmas Day
    2. Early Christmas Morning
    3. Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree
    4. Christmas Conga
    5. Minnie And Santa
    6. Feels Like Christmas
    7. Three Ships
    8. New Year's Baby (First Lullaby)
    9. December Child
    10. In The Bleak Midwinter
    11. Silent Night

    Amazon.com

    Cyndi Lauper has reinvented herself once again, penning a handful of original Christmas carols and cornball ditties with writing partner Jan Pulsford and recording them at home while her infant son Declyn slept. (The almost-year-old Decyln can be heard jabbering and gurgling on "New Year's Baby [First Lullaby]".) The antic Lauper who first revealed that "Girls Just Want to Have Fun" in 1983 is still in evidence, spiking the season with her endearing comic voice and calypso time signatures on such standouts as "Christmas Conga" and the bawdy "Minnie and Santa." But the standards "Three Ships" and "Silent Night" really shine, revealing a depth and emotion that was in evidence on Lauper's tender "Time After Time." --Jaan Uhelszki

    Customer Reviews:

    5 out of 5 stars Brighten your holidays.......2007-01-04

    This is not only a great holiday album, it is a classic Cyndi Lauper album. Her renditions of "Home on Christmas Day," "Christmas Conga" and "New Year's Baby" are treasures. Anyone who is a fan of Ms. Lauper's, or a fan of holiday music (beyond the same 20 tracks the radio plays over and over for weeks) should get this CD.

    4 out of 5 stars It's time to make the Christmas punch........2005-12-23

    Cyndi Lauper's Christmas album is a real treat. It isn't "just another Christmas album". Seven of the eleven songs are originals that Cyndi co-wrote, and they are all fine songs. If you like Cyndi, you'll like this album.

    5 out of 5 stars Have a Creole, Cajun, Celtic and Coptic Christmas...........2004-12-28

    When Cyndi Lauper's MERRY CHRISTMAS...HAVE A NICE LIFE was first released back in '98, I remember reading some capsule review in some popular magazine or other (maybe PEOPLE?) to the effect that it was surprisingly good, better than it "had a right to be," in fact. Huh? Is that a compliment?

    I imagine the reviewer thought he was being pretty darn generous to a performer, whom he no doubt recalled as being basically a novelty act from the early MTV days. What's frustrating about reviews like this is that they seldom reference any previous recording other than SHE'S SO UNUSUAL (or, if you're lucky, TRUE COLORS). Cyndi's 90s work(HAT FULL OF STARS and SISTERS OF AVALON) had demonstrated a maturing talent (not that the "immature" stuff was bad--far from it). It's just that, had anybody been bothering to listen, they would have known that she was an artist to be taken seriously and a force to be reckoned with.

    Unfortunately, too many had written her off prematurely. And by 1998, her record company was pretty much ready to show her the door. She had one record left on her contract with SONY (who hadn't been offering much in the way of support anyway). Cyndi had gone out touring in '97, opening for Tina Turner, and giving it her all while visibly pregnant...and the record company could scarcely be bothered to promote her excellent SISTERS OF AVALON. A Christmas album seemed like a handy way to meet the terms of the contract and for artist and record company to bid each other adieu.

    Christmas CDs are usually lower budget affairs (I'm told) and as it happened, Cyndi already had a couple of Christmas themed tracks in the can anyway. Actually, "Feels Like Christmas" from HAT FULL OF STARS is really more of a love song than a true holiday song, but it had the Noel thing going on in the title and a nice bounce (one of the more upbeat tracks on what was otherwise Cyndi's most serious record to date). "Early Christmas Morning" had appeared on the Japanese version of SISTERS OF AVALON, so that only meant eight or nine new tracks at the most.

    It could have been a knock-off, folks, but Cyndi Lauper's sense of artistry and adventure knows few if any bounds, and musically, HAVE A NICE LIFE (the title obviously being something of a kiss-off to SONY) continues to explore the same musical terrain as the previous two records. Queens born Cyndi comes by her multi-culturalism naturally, You've got a little Zydeco here, a little Island music and her version of "Silent Night" starts off with some Mid-Eastern strains, which only begs the question, why hasn't anybody done anything like this before. But that's the closer, let's go back to the beginning.

    It's been said that the best Christmas music is tinged with melancholy, and Cyndi's opener "Home for Christmas Day," replete with ringing Byrds-like guitar, is something of a rock rewrite of "I'll Be Home For Christmas." (Ever notice how many holiday albums BEGIN with the latter song: Cyndi honors the tradition in her unique way by starting off with her own updated, similary themed carol.) Then it's off to Cajun-inflected "Early Christmas Morning" and Cajun-Caribbean mix on "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree (a wink and a nod to Brenda Lee--a singer she was often compared to back in the day). The fun continues with "Christmas Conga" and the winning, slightly ribald novelty "Minnie and Santa." Gradually, though, the all the spirited fun begins to give way to a more serious, solemn and (dare we say it?) spiritual mood.

    Two songs in row celebrating Cyndi's recent motherhood? Why not? It might be a little much for some artists, but for one as open hearted and honest as Cyndi Lauper, it works. I've had a few "Well, I dunno about this moments" with Cyndi's ballads before (including classics like "Time After Time" and "True Colors"), but they always win me over eventually. "New Year's Baby (First Lullabye)" and "December Child" are no different, delicate songs that avoid slipping into the precious by dint of Cyndi's sheer conviction.

    After starting out on such a sunny, tropical note, the album ends on an appropriately winterlike note with the Celtic flavored "In the Bleak Midwinter" and a relatively stark reading of "Silent Night." From the festive to the hauntingly fragile...Cyndi Lauper sums up the season. Definitely, not a knock-off.

    Fast forward to 2003-2004, Cyndi's back with SONY (at least for now), doing the standards thing (but definitely doing them her way), and now the record company has now come out with a remastered version of this album. I haven't heard the new version yet, but it did actually seem as though this yuletide offering, delightful as it is, could have used some brightening (of sound and spirit). Looks like everyone may just be having a nice life after all.

    5 out of 5 stars The Best Christmas CD in Years.......2004-12-06

    All the credit should go to that vastly underrated performer with the crystal clear pipes- Cyndi Lauper. Most of the songs on this CD are written by Cyndi, including the already classic rocker "Home On Christmas Day," the beautiful "December Child," and the reggae charged "Christmas Conga." I even put this CD in my player throughout the entire year, whether it's Christmas or not, it's that good. While most of my other Christmas albums have been collecting dust, Cyndi Lauper's is on constant play. You have to check this one out.

    5 out of 5 stars So mad at myself!.......2004-12-06

    This excellent cd was released in 1998 and I'm just now getting around to buying it in 2004. After just a few listens I know all the songs and can't wait to hear them again.

    1. Home on Christmas Day - vintage 80's Cyndi pop song. Sweet with a bit of an edge. Catchy chorus.
    2. Early Christmas Morning - Catchy song with a children's chorus.
    3. Rockin Around the Christmas Tree - You know this one. Done in a fun style.
    4. Christmas Conga - goofy fun, lots of humor.
    5. Minnie and Santa - Bawdy little sea shanty with a great sense of humor.
    6. Feels Like Christmas - This was previously released on another album, great any time of the year.
    7. Three Ships - Here's where the tone changes. Really interesting take on a song you don't hear much on pop Christmas albums.
    8. New Year's Baby (First Lullaby)- This is so touching and beautiful - the lyrics seem odd at first and then you get caught up in the moment of her singing to her new baby, and get to hear him gurgling in the background. Just a gorgeous song about the passage of time.
    9. December Child - Lovely spiritual song, telling her newborn son about another baby whose birth is celebrated in December.
    10. In the Bleak Midwinter - Haunting, beautiful.
    11. Silent Night - Beautiful rendition.

    There is such a range of emotion in these 11 songs from this multi-faceted performer, but the album as a whole flows beautifully. Do yourself a favor and don't let any more time pass before you get it for yourself.
    Merry Christmas...Have a Nice Life!
    Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    • Have a Cajun, Creole, Coptic Christmas
    Merry Christmas...Have a Nice Life!
    Cyndi Lauper
    Manufacturer: Sony Special Product
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    Binding: Audio CD

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    1. Sisters of Avalon

    ASIN: B000BU0C70
    Release Date: 2005-10-25

    Tracks:

    1. Home on Christmas Day
    2. Early Christmas Morning - Chatterton Elementary School Choir, Cyndi Lauper
    3. Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree
    4. Christmas Conga
    5. Minnie and Santa
    6. Feels Like Christmas
    7. Three Ships
    8. New Year's Baby (First Lullaby)
    9. December Child
    10. In the Bleak Midwinter
    11. Silent Night - Chatterton Elementary School Choir, Cyndi Lauper

    Customer Reviews:

    4 out of 5 stars Have a Cajun, Creole, Coptic Christmas.......2005-11-20

    When Cyndi Lauper's MERRY CHRISTMAS...HAVE A NICE LIFE was first released back in '98, I remember reading some capsule review in some popular magazine or other (maybe PEOPLE?) to the effect that it was surprisingly good, better than it "had a right to be," in fact. Huh? Is that a compliment?

    I imagine the reviewer thought he was being pretty darn generous to a performer, whom he no doubt recalled as being basically a novelty act from the early MTV days. What's frustrating about reviews like this is that they seldom reference any previous recording other than SHE'S SO UNUSUAL (or, if you're lucky, TRUE COLORS). Cyndi's 90s work(HAT FULL OF STARS and SISTERS OF AVALON) had demonstrated a maturing talent (not that the "immature" stuff was bad--far from it). It's just that, had anybody been bothering to listen, they would have known that she was an artist to be taken seriously and a force to be reckoned with.

    Unfortunately, too many had written her off prematurely. And by 1998, her record company was pretty much ready to show her the door. She had one record left on her contract with SONY (who hadn't been offering much in the way of support anyway). Cyndi had gone out touring in '97, opening for Tina Turner, and giving it her all while visibly pregnant...and the record company could scarcely be bothered to promote her excellent SISTERS OF AVALON. A Christmas album seemed like a handy way to meet the terms of the contract and for artist and record company to bid each other adieu.

    Christmas CDs are usually lower budget affairs (I'm told) and as it happened, Cyndi already had a couple of Christmas themed tracks in the can anyway. Actually, "Feels Like Christmas" from HAT FULL OF STARS is really more of a love song than a true holiday song, but it had the Noel thing going on in the title and a nice bounce (one of the more upbeat tracks on what was otherwise Cyndi's most serious record to date). "Early Christmas Morning" had appeared on the Japanese version of SISTERS OF AVALON, so that only meant eight or nine new tracks at the most.

    It could have been a knock-off, folks, but Cyndi Lauper's sense of artistry and adventure knows few if any bounds, and musically, HAVE A NICE LIFE (the title obviously being something of a kiss-off to SONY) continues to explore the same musical terrain as the previous two records. Queens born Cyndi comes by her multi-culturalism naturally, You've got a little Zydeco here, a little Island music and her version of "Silent Night" starts off with some Mid-Eastern strains, which only begs the question, why hasn't anybody done anything like this before. But that's the closer, let's go back to the beginning.

    It's been said that the best Christmas music is tinged with melancholy, and Cyndi's opener "Home for Christmas Day," replete with ringing Byrds-like guitar, is something of a rock rewrite of "I'll Be Home For Christmas." (Ever notice how many holiday albums BEGIN with the latter song: Cyndi honors the tradition in her unique way by starting off with her own updated, similary themed carol.) Then it's off to Cajun-inflected "Early Christmas Morning" and Cajun-Caribbean mix on "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree (a wink and a nod to Brenda Lee--a singer she was often compared to back in the day). The fun continues with "Christmas Conga" and the winning, slightly ribald novelty "Minnie and Santa." Gradually, though, the all the spirited fun begins to give way to a more serious, solemn and (dare we say it?) spiritual mood.

    Two songs in row celebrating Cyndi's recent motherhood? Why not? It might be a little much for some artists, but for one as open hearted and honest as Cyndi Lauper, it works. I've had a few "Well, I dunno about this moments" with Cyndi's ballads before (including classics like "Time After Time" and "True Colors"), but they always win me over eventually. "New Year's Baby (First Lullabye)" and "December Child" are no different, delicate songs that avoid slipping into the precious by dint of Cyndi's sheer conviction.

    After starting out on such a sunny, tropical note, the album ends on an appropriately winterlike note with the Celtic flavored "In the Bleak Midwinter" and a relatively stark reading of "Silent Night." From the festive to the hauntingly fragile...Cyndi Lauper sums up the season. Definitely, not a knock-off.

    Fast forward to 2003-2004, Cyndi's back with SONY (at least for now), doing the standards thing (but definitely doing them her way), and now the record company has now come out with a remastered version of this album. I haven't heard the new version yet, but it did actually seem as though this yuletide offering, delightful as it is, could have used some brightening (of sound and spirit). Looks like everyone may just
    Have a Nice Life
    Average customer rating: Not rated
      Have a Nice Life
      Fairlife
      Manufacturer: Sony
      ProductGroup: Music
      Binding: Audio CD

      GeneralGeneral | International | Styles | Music
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      ASIN: B00069BM0C
      Release Date: 2004-12-16

      Album Description

      Details TBA. 2004.
      Have a Nice Life - More Great Break up Songs of the 60's
      Average customer rating: Not rated
        Have a Nice Life - More Great Break up Songs of the 60's

        Manufacturer: Sony
        ProductGroup: Music
        Binding: Audio CD
        ASIN: B000BADGVO

        Product Description

        Have a Nice Life - More Great Break Up Songs Of The 60's // 1. Here Without You - The Byrds 2. Another Sad and Lonely Night - The Bobby Fuller Four 3. Crying Game - Brenda Lee 4. Needles and Pins - Jackie De Shannon 5. So You Say You Lost Your Baby - Gene Clark 6. Friends - The Cyrkle 7. Goodnight - Roy Orbison 8. Off and Running - Lesley Gore 9. I Can't Talk to You - Chad Stuart 10. So I'll Try - The Clefs of Lavender Hill 11. I'm Not Living Here - Sagittarius 12. Where Did She Go - Steff
        Have a Nice Life...
        Average customer rating: Not rated
          Have a Nice Life...
          Mug-Shot
          ProductGroup: Music
          Binding: Audio CD
          ASIN: B0000565IR
          Have a Nice Life
          Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
          • A surprisingly strong, varied collection.
          Have a Nice Life
          Various Artists
          Manufacturer: Sony
          ProductGroup: Music
          Binding: Audio CD

          GeneralGeneral | Pop | Styles | Music
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          ASIN: B000008MX7
          Release Date: 1994-06-21

          Tracks:

          1. Here Without You - The Byrds
          2. Another Sad and Lonely Night - Bobby Fuller Four
          3. Crying Game - Brenda Lee
          4. Needles and Pins
          5. So You Say You Lost Your Baby - Gene Clark
          6. Friends - The Cyrkle
          7. Goodnight - Roy Orbison
          8. Off and Running - Lesley Gore
          9. I Can't Talk to You - Chad Stuart
          10. So I'll Try - Clefs of Lavender Hill
          11. I'm Not Living Here - Sagittarius
          12. Where Did She Go - Steff

          Customer Reviews:

          4 out of 5 stars A surprisingly strong, varied collection........2002-05-02

          Traditionally, Various Artists CDs--especially those based around a theme as bizarre as this one--are both insipid and obvious; looking at the title of this CD, you could be forgiven for scoffing and thinking that it's all "Breaking Up Is Hard To Dos."

          Well, whomever put this together had both excellent taste and a drive for the obscure, because this functions as an excellent sampler for the *non*-famous songs of some artists. Instead of anything obvious from the Byrds, we get the excellent "Here Without You." Following the Gene Clark thread, we get his excellent "So You Say You Lost Your Baby" (from the Gene Clark/Gosdin Brothers LP, presented here in mono). Instead of "Red Rubber Ball"--surely an obvious choice--we get "Friends" by the Cyrkle. See what I mean?

          All in all, this collection provides a surprisingly excellent listen; kudos to those at Risky Business for their foresight! And an extra collector's note for this CD as well: as far as I know, this is the ONLY place on CD to get the rare, 7" version of Sagittarius's "I'm Not Living Here" (this CD came out ages before the Sundazed Present Tense disc, so this was probably the only tape availible). As that single can be incredibly hard to find, save yourself some trouble and get it here. Oh, and the song's great, of course.

          Have a Nice Life
          Average customer rating: Not rated
            Have a Nice Life

            Manufacturer: Lustrevision
            ProductGroup: Music
            Binding: Audio CD

            GeneralGeneral | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
            Psychedelic RockPsychedelic Rock | Classic Rock | Styles | Music
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            ASIN: B000CAEBDA
            Release Date: 2004-11-30

            Music:

            1. The Montrose Avenue
            2. Live in Concert
            3. The Ethereal Mirror
            4. Man-amplified (1992)
            5. Malpractice
            6. Kingsize
            7. Boss Disque
            8. Fused
            9. Garden of Evil
            10. Jubilee

            Music

            Music