Music

Average customer rating:

Comparison - Jochum's Set vs. Colin Davis'
Haydn's London Symphonies
Excellent, but beware of Davis' groaning
GOOD, BUT!
Grand, Warm, Rich, Mature Symphony

Haydn: The London Symphonies, Vol. 2

Manufacturer: Philips
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Haydn: The London Symphonies, Vol. 1
Haydn: Paris Symphonies
Haydn: Symphonies Nos. 88 - 92
Haydn: String Quartets Op. 76, Nos. 1-3
Mendelssohn: 5 Symphonies; 7 Overtures

ASIN: B0000041AR
Release Date: 1994-10-11

Tracks:

Symphony In D: Adagio - Allegro assai - Joseph Haydn
Symphony In D: Largo cantabile - Joseph Haydn
Symphony In D: Menuetto. Allegro - Joseph Haydn
Symphony In D: Finale. Presto ma non troppo - Joseph Haydn
Symphony In E Flat: Adagio -- Vivace assai - Joseph Haydn
Symphony In E Flat: Adagio - Joseph Haydn
Symphony In E Flat: Menuetto. Allegretto - Joseph Haydn
Symphony In E Flat: Finale. Vivace - Joseph Haydn
Symphony In G: Adagio - Joseph Haydn
Symphony In G: Andante - Joseph Haydn
Symphony In G: Menuetto - Joseph Haydn
Symphony In G: Finale - Joseph Haydn

Tracks:

Symphony In G: 1. Adagio - J. Haydn
Symphony In G: 2. Andante - J. Haydn
Symphony In G: 3. Menuetto - J. Haydn
Symphony In G: 4. Finale - J. Haydn
Symphony In C: 1. Adagio - Vivace - J. Haydn
Symphony In C: 2. Adagio ma non troppo - J. Haydn
Symphony In C: 3. Menuetto. Allegretto - J. Haydn
Symphony In C: 4. Finale. Presto assai - J. Haydn
Symphony In D: 1. Adagio - J. Haydn
Symphony In D: 2. Andante - J. Haydn
Symphony In D: 3. Menuetto - J. Haydn
Symphony In D: 4. Finale - J. Haydn

Amazon.com

Someone once commented on the "sulphurous devilishness" of Haydn's surprises in the London symphonies. But it should come as no surprise that one of the best recordings of these works is from Sir Colin Davis, whose accounts with the Concertgebouw Orchestra stand among the most exalted phonographic accomplishments of recent years. There is a Beechamesque quality to these readings, and when it comes to Haydn, that is praise indeed. They are exceptionally personable, characterful, likable interpretations, with wit, warmth, and life in every measure. All 12 symphonies are wonderfully played and very well recorded. At full price, these recordings would be a top choice; as midprice offerings, three symphonies to a disc (averaging more than 75 minutes of music each), they're a steal. --Ted Libbey

Customer Reviews:

Comparison - Jochum's Set vs. Colin Davis'.......2006-02-23

Jochum and London Phil deliver the highest level of Haydn playing just like Colin Davis and Concertgebow do. I own both and tried to compare between two.

Jochum adds plenty of personal touches that decidedly grab your attention. You hear poignant romanticism or Beethoven-like roar in many places. Colin Davis, by comparison, lets the music flow naturally and makes it sound more balanced. Colin Davis sure gets a lot of help from the gorgeous Concertgebow band - silky but vivacious strings, show-stopping woodwinds, bright brass section, etc. In his set, you hear more of the orchestra than Colin Davis. I think it's the other way around in Jochum set. Concergebow's sound is more transparent and charmingly light-footed while London Phil sounds fuller and creamier without losing crispness. You get more agility and refinement from Davis set. You get more expressiveness and warmth from Jochum's.
Let me emphasize that all of the good qualities I attributed to either of the sets actually exist in both (they are inherently in Haydn's writing). It's just that some qualities are more apparent in one than the other.
As to the recording, Colin Davis set has more sparkle and vividness. It sounds more modern. Jochum's has a typical old-fashioned analogue sound in a very good way. It has plenty of natural ambience but doesn't sound muddy.
I recommend you buy both of these delightful and affordable sets. I never regretted doing so :-)

Haydn's London Symphonies.......2005-12-21

I have been listening to many of Haydn's earlier symphonies on the ongoing cycle of the complete series on Naxos. But for the final set of twelve, Haydn's masterpieces in the form, I wanted Sir Colin Davis conducting the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra. Davis has recorded the twelve London symphonies on two mid-priced Phillips "duo" CDs. The performances are outstanding and filled with ebullience. They will make a good introduction to Haydn for those new to his music and will delight long-term lovers of Haydn.

Beginning when he was about 25, Haydn composed for the wealthy and music-loving Esterhazy family. His fame gradually spread throughout Europe and, with the "Paris" symphonies, Haydn began to write works for a public broader than his aristocratic patron. With the death of Nicholas Esterhazy in 1790, Haydn received an invitation to visit London. He visited twice, in 1791-1792 and again from 1794-1795. His twelve "London" symphonies are the result. These are full-scaled symphonic creations showing the consummate mastery Haydn had acquired over the years. The works are joyous and lively and were immediately welcomed by Haydn's London audiences. They are also highly sophisticated and endlessly creative works of art which will reward careful listening and study. For those listeners wanting a more detailed, yet non-technical overview of the twelve London symphonies than that found on liner notes, I suggest consulting their treatment in Michael Steinberg's valuable work, "The Symphony: A Listener's Guide."

This two-CD set includes six of the London symphonies: nos. 93, 94, 97, 99, 100, and 101. Let me mention a few features of each.

Haydn's most famous symphony is probably the 94th in G major, the "Surprise". The theme of the second movement, with the large "bang" at the end of the repetition of the opening phrase is one of the best-known moments of music, familiar to children. This remains an excellent work to introduce young people to music. The "surprise" movement proceeds with a lovely set of variations, and there is much to get to know, including more surprises, in the remaining three movements as well.

Symphony no. 100 is also in G major and is known as the "Military" for the martial tone of the second movement, replete with drums, cymbals, and triangle. In addition to the "Military" movement, this symphony features a vicacious finale replete with timpani, a contrapuntal section, and some soft moments of reflection hidden within the lively theme.

The "Clock" symphony, no 101 in D major is named for the tick-tock accompaniment figure in the second movement which is forever endearing. This movement gradually rises to a moment of passion as it develops. The work also features a lively opening movement, a lengthy minuet, and an outstanding finale that works from an inocuous opening to complex counterpoint.

The symphonies with nicknames are the easiest way to introduce the London set, but the symphonies without these names are on the same high plane. The first of the London set is symphony no. 93, also in D major. A memorable moment of this work is the opening of the second movement, which Haydn scores for a string quartet. The movement becomes rather introspective as it proceeds, but Haydn brings it back to earth with a toot on the bassoon at the close. The symphony opens with a slow. detailed introduction followed by an opening movement that develops two lively and lyrical themes.

The 97th symphony is the last of twenty Haydn symphonies in C major, a key he used for regal, ceremonial effect. The work opens with a surprisingly quiet slow introduction followed by an opening movement that develops broadly from many repetitions of the basic chord of C major.

The 99th symphony in E-flat major is the first in which Haydn used clarinets and, from the opening chord, clarinets play a major role in the texture of this work. This is one of the more complex symphonies of the London set, with a harmonically adventurous slow introduction followed by a movement that emphasizes the second of its two major themes. The slow movement is deeply intense and also stresses the second of the two primary themes on which it is based. After a lyrical, restrained opening, the movement turns to the minor key in a dramatic section before returning to the opening material, substantially embellished. The minuet combines elements of both courtliness and earthiness while the finale is rapid and culminates in a fugal passage. The 99th is one of the finest symphonies of an outstanding series.

This set, and its companion recording of the remaining six London symphonies, make a wonderful introduction to a great composer.

Robin Friedman

Excellent, but beware of Davis' groaning.......2005-02-23

Excellent recordings in general, as pointed out by others.

But Davis' groaning is very audible and ANNOYING in places. He does the same on most of his more recent LSO recordings.

Why do conductors groan/grunt away and spoil their recordings so often?

Jochum/DG is another great set of the London symphonies, and doesn't have conductor noises!

GOOD, BUT!.......2004-07-15

This set is good of course, but if you are looking for great performances for EACH of Haydn's 12 London symphony, you may want to buy individual discs. Here is my collection of the 12 'London' Masterpieces.
Symphony 93: Goodman/Hanover Band (Hyperion 66532)
Symphony 94: Monteux/Vienna Phil (Decca 452893-2)
Symphony 95: Britten/ECO (BBC 8008)
Symphony 96: Harnoncourt/Concg. Orchestra (Teldec/Warner 21337-2)
Symphony 97: Szell/Cleveland (Sony 67175)
Symphony 98: Jochum/LPO (DG 437 201-2)
Symphony 99: Davis/Concg. Orchestra (Phillips 442 614-2)
Symphony 100: Walter/Columbia (Sony 64485)
Symphony 101: Mackerras/St. Luke's (Telarc)
Symphony 102: Dorati/Philharmonia Hungarica (Decca 452 259-2)
Symphony 103: Kuijken/La Petite Bande (DHM 77362)
Symphony 104: Hickox/Collegium Musicum 90 (Chandos 0655)

Grand, Warm, Rich, Mature Symphony.......2003-05-07

Culmination of a marvelous life in composition are these London Symphonies.

Here, in one of the highest rated collections Sir Colin Davis leads the Royalo Concertgebouw Orchestra in over 150 minutes of some of the premier symphonic sounds of all times. There is style and substance in their treatment and the crisp, clean recording is marvelous at any price, but even better at this mid-range bargain.

I especially have fond of No. 93 and of course, No. 102 with its melodic richness and inventive harmony. His element of surpirse is always robust and mysterious, as here the third note spells departure.

How good can one set at this price be? Supremely good and satisfying Hadyn!

Average customer rating:

Magnificent
My favorite ambient CD
Unique and mesmerising
Unparalleled atmospheric ambient.
Aphex Twin Fans will be delighted...

Selected Ambient Works, Vol. 2
Aphex Twin
Manufacturer: Sire / London/Rhino
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Ambient | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

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Similar Items:

Selected Ambient Works 85-92
Richard D. James Album
Drukqs
I Care Because You Do
Geogaddi

ASIN: B000002MNZ
Release Date: 1994-04-12

Tracks:

cliffs
radiator
rhubarb
grass
mold
ropes
circles
weathered stone
tree
domino
steel plate

Tracks:

blue calx
parallel stripes
metal grating
windowsill
b+w stripes
siding nails
corrugated tubing
lichen
leaves
tassels
rusty metal
b+w stripesII

Amazon.com

British electronics wunderkind Richard James (alias Aphex Twin, AFX, Polygon Window, etc.) claims he heard the compositions on Selected Ambient Works, Volume II in lucid dreams. Like abstract paintings composed of shades of a single color, James's resonant explorations of specific timbres linger close to a central idea on each cut, incorporating just enough variation to remain disturbing. While its predecessor, Selected Ambient Works '85-'92 drew on seven years' worth of material, the uniform quality of these untitled tracks, plus their judicious sequencing, suggests they were assembled over a shorter period. Clocking in at over 150 minutes, the double-disc set (if this is "selected," how many hours of outtakes remain?) provides an exemplary introduction to the quieter facets of James's expansive, idiosyncratic aesthetic. --Kurt B. Reighley

Customer Reviews:

Magnificent.......2007-02-15

This quiet, deeply introspective album is full of stunning sounds and textures, alternately beautiful and creepy. That music produced electronically can be this rich with emotion is an incredible achievement. I have listened to this album hundreds of times and it never fails to soothe my soul. It would be at the top of my list of desert island discs.

I'm puzzled by those who label it experimental. It's different from other electronica, granted, but many artists were making this type of music long before this album came along. I can't consider this a challenging record since it is so easy to listen to. You just put it on and float in it.

My favorite ambient CD.......2006-12-31

I've heard the name "Aphex Twin" for quite sometime now and was finally introduced to the ambient side of this artist through the internet animation "Salad Fingers." -- I decided to check out this album as I've been wanting to get into ambient music a bit more and I was completely surprised on what I was hearing through my headphones. Every track is something different. Another blank canvas that, by the end of the song, has a landscape painted so vivdly you could reach out and touch it. I definately recommend this album for anyone who is a fan of ambient music or would like to see what this genre is all about because this album is classic.

If you're still antsy about purchasing this album, here are some stand out tracks:
disc one: Cliffs, Rhubarb, Radiator
Disc two: Blue Calx, 2 Twig, Hexagon, Lichen

Unique and mesmerising.......2006-12-17

Aphex Twin's second compilation of ambient works is, in my opinion, vastly superior to the first release. Straying away from the more rhythmic focus of 'Selected Ambient Works 85-92', volume 2 is an aurally sparse and contemplative journey. The story of Richard D. James' inspiration (a series of vivid dreams, according to him) may be a myth, but all the same, this ambient masterpiece seems to tear you from your surroundings and throw you into a dream-like soundscape. It is a rare sort of album that, I have found, demands the listener's attention, and rewards it by taking complete control of their senses.

'Selected Ambient Works Volume 2' is an unsettling album, combining synthesisers and samplers to form dark, barren soundscapes. Needless to say, it bears no semblance to the structure of popular music, and is characterised by long, repetitive tracks that unfold over a long period of time. They really have to be listened to in their entirety to be truly appreciated. That being said, the tracks, clocking in at 6-7 minutes each across 2 CDs) never try your patience. On the contrary, the masterful compositions reward patience, with their subtle changes and textural variations. In fact, for most of the album, I found myself wishing that the songs would not end. 'Radiator', 'Steel Plate' and 'Tassels', to name a few, stole my imagination and never let go and, for me, the fading out of the tracks signified an all-too-soon departure from an altered reality.

These may sound like exaggerations, but 'Selected Ambient Works Volume 2' has a rare and profound effect upon me, and is one of the few albums I own that bears no likeness to anything else. To label it 'electronica' is too broad, and utterly meaningless. 'Ambient', however, doesn't seem to do justice to its effect. The only way I can describe it is as an experience, for it seems to transcend the effect that music I like would ordinarily have on me. A drug, perhaps?

Of course, like every album I absolutely adore, it is just shy of perfection. There are some tracks that seem out of place with the general aesthetic of the album, and even jarring. The album therefore lacks the feeling of continuity that one may find with, say, Tim Hecker. However, I do not believe that this was Richard D. James' intention, and I could not imagine the album without the seemingly out-of-place tracks. Furthermore, it is astounding to think that this album is simply full of compositions that take control of the listener's imagination, and transport them to a vividly surreal and barren place. This is a must buy album for anyone who likes electronic music, and is willing to invest a bit of time into it.

Unparalleled atmospheric ambient........2006-04-10

More mature, organic and complex than '85-'92 and less abstract than some later Aphex. The repetition and strangeness of the tracks require dedication from the listener, but the reward is atmospheres rarely experienced in ambient music or otherwise. I've heard that sleep deprivation and isoloation were ingredients in early Aphex Twin, both seem to come through in this excellent release. If only electronic artists would start releasing back catalogue in 24/96 dvd-a (or similar). This release certainly deserves it. If you like electronic ambient music, you probably already have this in your collection... if not, you should.

Aphex Twin Fans will be delighted..........2006-03-01

I thought volume 1 of Aphex Twin's selected ambient works was a superb album, so I bought Volume II, thinking I would find more great stuff. I found the Volume 2 CD is "far out" compared to Volume 1, in that it is more like one long series of weird sound effects. How do you put that into words? This stuff is more akin to Tangerine Dream than their first album, which is more "dancy" and more epitomises the sound of ambient house sound of the 90s.

Average customer rating:

Comparison - Jochum's Set vs. Colin Davis'
Haydn's London Symphonies
This is a good bargain but I don't recommend the performance
GOOD, BUT!
Thrill of Playing/Listening to Great Symphonic Composure

Haydn: The London Symphonies, Vol. 1

Manufacturer: Philips
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Haydn: The London Symphonies, Vol. 2
Haydn: Paris Symphonies
Bach - Mass in B minor / Argenta, Nichols, Chance, Stafford, Milner, W. Evans, Gardiner
Mozart: Piano Concertos Nos. 24 & 25
Schubert: Piano Quintet "Trout"; Mozart: Clarinet Quintet

ASIN: B0000041AQ
Release Date: 1994-10-11

Tracks:

Symphony In C Minor, Hob. I:95: 1. Allegro moderato
Symphony In C Minor, Hob. I:95: 2. Andante
Symphony In C Minor, Hob. I:95: 3. Menuetto
Symphony In C Minor, Hob. I:95: 4. Finale. Vivace
Symphony In B Flat, Hob. I:98: 1. Adagio - Allegro
Symphony In B Flat, Hob. I:98: 2. Adagio
Symphony In B Flat, Hob. I:98: 3. Menuetto. Allegro
Symphony In B Flat, Hob. I:98: 4. Finale. Presto
Symphony In D, Hob. I:104: 1. Adagio - Allegro
Symphony In D, Hob. I:104: 2. Andante
Symphony In D, Hob. I:104: 3. Menuetto. Allegro
Symphony In D, Hob. I:104: 4. Finale. Spiritoso

Tracks:

Symphony In D, Hob. I:96: 1. Adagio - Allegro
Symphony In D, Hob. I:96: 2. Andante
Symphony In D, Hob. I:96: 3. Menuetto. Allegretto
Symphony In D, Hob. I:96: 4. Finale. Vivace assai
Symphony In B Flat, Hob. I:102: 1. Largo - Vivace
Symphony In B Flat, Hob. I:102: 2. Adagio
Symphony In B Flat, Hob. I:102: 3. Menuetto, Allegro
Symphony In B Flat, Hob. I:102: 4. Finale, Presto
Symphony In E Flat, Hob. I:103: 1. Adagio - Allegro con sirito
Symphony In E Flat, Hob. I:103: 2. Andante piu tosto allegretto
Symphony In E Flat, Hob. I:103: 3. Menuetto
Symphony In E Flat, Hob. I:103: 4. Finale, Allegro con spirito

Amazon.com

Customer Reviews:

Comparison - Jochum's Set vs. Colin Davis'.......2006-05-03

Haydn's London Symphonies.......2006-01-28

Haydn's twelve London Symphonies represent the culmination of Haydn's long and slow development as a symphonist. They remain among the greatest most varied set of symphonies ever written. Haydn composed them in two sets of six, for two lengthy trips to London in 1791 --1792 and 1794 -- 1795. The symphonies have been recorded in their entirety by many conductors, including Beecham, Scherchen,Bernstein, Jochum, and Van Karajan, but the set by Sir Colin Davis conducting the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra is justly renowned. Davis's readings are available on two two-CD sets from Phillips, each of which sell at a modest price. There is no better way for the newcomer to get to know Haydn's masterworks. The first of the Phillips volumes, which I discuss here includes three of the earlier symphonies of the group, nos. 95,96, and 98, together with the magisterial final three symphonies, nos 102, 103, and 104.

Haydn's music speaks to the beginner in music (Remember the slow movement of the "surprise" symphony, known to every child.) as well as to the most demanding listener. The London audience for which he wrote them consisted both of people who knew little of music together with highly knowledgeable and sophisticated music lovers. Haydn had the ability to please both. The London symphonies are full of memorable and simple tunes, concertante solos for many instruments, jokes, and gimmicks. But they also include great musical variety, highly original slow introductions which become deeply integrated with the body of the work, deep slow movements, great development of material, creative orchestration, and extensive use of counterpoint. The symphonies have best been described as exemplifying a "sense of grandeur". They are large-scale, serious compositions, full of ease and mastery. They are also very much products of the Enlightenment as they move from their slow and mysterious openings through to their lively, positive, and triumphant conclusions.

The earliest of the London symphonies is the Symphony no. 96 in D major sometimes called the "Miracle". This is a simpler work than most of its companions. It opens with a fanfare slow introduction followed by a lively theme. Moments to listen for include the oboe solos at the end of the introduction and in the trio of the third movement, the counterpoint in the minor key in the slow movement, and the solos for flute and violin near the end of the slow movement.

The symphony no 95 in C minor is the only one of the London symphonies in a minor key and the only one without a slow introduction. It juxtaposes major and minor key elements coming to a major, triumphal close in the first movement. The first movement consists of an angular, angry minor key opening theme, followed by a long, lyrical theme in a major key. The second movement is a theme and variation while the minuet returns to the minor. The solo cello has large roles in the two middle movement. The finale is in the major with a great deal of fugal writing.

The symphony no 98 in B flat major is together with the following symphony no. 99, on of my favorites of the first nine of these symphonies. The slow introduction is, unusually, in the minor key and it is followed by a movement of great lightness with much counterpoint. The slow movement is one of Haydn's most sublime, probably written to commemorate the death of Mozart, with echoes of the slow movement of Mozart's "Jupiter" symphony. The minuet includes a trio for wind soloists while the swirling, humorous finale includes solo passages for the violin and, at the end, for the piano. (Haydn accompanied from the keyboard during the initial performances of these works.)

The final three symphonies of the "London" set are large-scaled masterpieces, the summit of the series. They were written for performance at the Opera Hall; and Haydn took full advantage of the orchestra and accoustics available to him to say his last word in symphonic form. There is much to hear and rehear in these symphonies.

The sympnony no. 102 in B flat major opens with a slow, largo introduction for the strings followed by a fast movement with two contrasting themes and a large-scaled development. The second movement is probably Haydn's best, as it glows with feeling and romance. The finale is a perpetuum mobile, developed canonically, with a theme that is tossed continually among the various instruments of the orchestra.

The "Drum-roll" symphony no. 103, opens with the instrument for which it is named followed by a growling introduction in the lower strings. In many ways, this symphony is similar to Haydn's Oratorio, "The Creation", composed subsequent to the London symphonies, with its movement from darkness to light. Unusually, the opening introductory material returns at the conclusion of the first movement. In the minuet of this symphony, Haydn moves from some simple, rustic writing for woodwinds to an immediately following theme for the violins of great urbanity. Haydn develops his final movement from some simple material, which he uses contrapuntally and with variety.

With its combination of depth, sophistication,wit,and highest mastery, the London symphony, in D major, No. 104, is my favorite of the set. It is a large work which begins with a minor-key and solemn introduction followed by an unusually lively and triumphant opening allegro. The slow movement is song-like with a darker middle section in the minor key. The minuet again features solos for winds in the trio, but the highlight of this symphony is its finale. Over a continuous drone, the orchestra articulates a theme, possibly derived from an English street tune, and develops it thoroughly from wit to grandeur. It is an apt conclusion to Haydn's symphonic career.

This is a set that can be heard many times, with increasing pleasure and discovery. Haydn's London Symphonies are among music's lasting joys. They are beautifully performed by Sir Colin Davis and the Amsterdam Concertgebouw.

Robin Friedman

This is a good bargain but I don't recommend the performance.......2004-11-17

One of my favorite conductors, Colin Davis, is not at his best here. The Dorati and Bruggen sets are both preferable.

GOOD, BUT!.......2004-07-15

Symphony 93: Goodman/Hanover Band (Hyperion 66532)
Symphony 94: Monteux/Vienna Phil (Decca 452893-2)
Symphony 95: Britten/ECO (BBC 8008)
Symphony 96: Harnoncourt/Concg. Orchestra (Teldec/Warner 21337-2)
Symphony 97: Szell/Cleveland (Sony 67175)
Symphony 98: Jochum/LPO (DG 437 201-2)
Symphony 99: Davis/Concg. Orchestra (Phillips 442 614-2)
Symphony 100: Walter/Columbia (Sony 64485)
Symphony 101: Mackerras/St. Luke's (Telarc)
Symphony 102: Dorati/Philharmonia Hungarica (Decca 452 259-2)
Symphony 103: Kuijken/La Petite Bande (DHM 77362)
Symphony 104: Hickox/Collegium Musicum 90 (Chandos 0655)

Thrill of Playing/Listening to Great Symphonic Composure.......2003-05-17

Imagine the thrill of Haydn finally hearing his work played the outstanding orchestra of Salomon in London, and for these musicians?

What a result for us to inherit these magnificent works performed by Sir Davis and the Royal Concertgebouw recorded at such an outstanding value by Philips.

I especially love the cello part in the Minuet of Sym.95 as well as the Adiago from the 98th. How hard is it to pick and choose though from this magnificent sounds? I find myself conducting as I listen as in Sandy Bottom Orchestra with the dairy manager.

Must have set!

Music for a Darkened Theatre, Vol. 1: Film & Television Music

Average customer rating:

Great compilation - and that's just the first half.
The best of Elfman!!!
Great Collection, A LIttle Too Eclectic
What Great Music
super

Music for a Darkened Theatre, Vol. 1: Film & Television Music

Manufacturer: Fontana Mca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Music for a Darkened Theatre, Vol. 2: Film & Television Music
Serenada Schizophrana
So Lo
Sleepy Hollow: Music from the Motion Picture
Beetlejuice: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack

ASIN: B000002OEB
Release Date: 1990-10-15

Tracks:

Excerpts From: Pee Wee's Big Adventure
Excerpts From: Batman
Excerpts From: Dick Tracy
Excerpts From: Beetlejuice
Excerpts From: Nightbreed
Excerpts From: Darkman
Excerpts From: Back To School
Excerpts From: Midnight Run
Excerpts From: Wisdom
Excerpts From: Hot To Trot
Excerpts From: Big Top Pee Wee
Excerpts From: The Simpsons
Excerpts From: Alfred Hitchcock Presents: The Jar
Excerpts From: Tales From The Crypt
Excerpts From: Face Like A Frog
Excerpts From: Forbidden Zone
Excerpts From: Scrooged

Customer Reviews:

Great compilation - and that's just the first half........2005-09-14

I first got this on cassette in the summer of '94 and listened to it every day, drawn by its thematic range and compositional depth. And that was just side-one.

Elfman pioneered the sound that drives today's movie adaptations of comic-books and darker-themed children's stories. Side-One kicks things off with a rollicking, hyper-cartoonish theme from the first Pee-Wee movie - the one where Pee-Wee searches for his beloved bike. Elfman's theme contains layers of different rides - on tightropes, highways, in the middle of a NASCAR rally - which rudely yet melodically crash into each other.

The Batman entry actually contains several pieces - the opening credits, the extended sequence in the cathedral and the climax - which show Batman's darkened extreme at its "Frank Miller" best. (Dir. Tim Burton couldn't sustain the mood in the next sequel, and the franchise took a turn towards the camp of the TV series with the next 2 movies.)

The theme for "Dick Tracy" is perhaps the most romantic on this disc, a quality that surpasses the theme's comic-book origins, but ends on an ironic note that's pure Elfman.

"Beetlejuice" (opening & closing credits) gives Elfman's childish ID a chance to stretch its legs, or in this case, slam-dance.

"Nightbreed" is an enigma wrapped in a dark mystery, and that's just Elfman's score. Elfman's work on this movie is as good as the movie wasn't, having a more powerful narrative than the script - easily the best track on the entire disc, one likely to exceed the movie in its dose of chills.

"Darkman" doesn't quite rise to the occasion, though the score may be hobbled by the movie itself, which seldom surpassed one of the many "Batman" clones of the early 1990's. "Darkman" (the movie, I mean) excelled as a parody of many comicbook staples (the wronged hero, the relentless villain, the scientific breakthrough with just one flaw), but not enough to escape being largely anonymous. Within those constraints, it's still a moving if scary piece.

When is Elfman not like Elfman? When he was in the mid-late `80's and scored "Back to School" (A Rodney Dangerfield vehicle) and "Midnight Run". Horns in "School" bring it closer to Elfman's over-the-top style, while "Run" sounds like a love-theme for the run-down, out-of-the-way parts of America that seldom appear in Elfman-movies. "Run" is a fun score for a fun movie - it's nothing like Elfman's previous work but it perfectly captures the on-the-road-without-a-map craziness of the movie.

To this day, I don't know why I never ventured to Side-two, but it's irrelevant. Even half this disc is worth it

The best of Elfman!!!.......2005-09-05

I was obsessed about getting this CD right from when I heard about it. I found it at the library and was so excited about it, and it didn't let me down. In fact, it was a lot better than I expected. It's a fun and creepy (strange mix, but it really works!) collection of Danny Elfman's film and television soundtracks. The first track, Pee Wee's Big Adventure, is probably my favorite. Also, I really like Batman and Wisdom. Batman is creepy and dark, and Wisdom is just weird, in the best possible way.
I'd recommend this to anyone who likes film music, or everyone who is even the tiniest bit an Elfman fan. It's amazing!

Great Collection, A LIttle Too Eclectic.......2003-08-19

You should be able to tell from the movies and TV shows listed here whether or not you'd be interested in this collection. It's a little too eclectic for my tastes (hence only 4 stars) but better than volume 2. I think thatthe miscellaneous collected ites here along with the previously unreleased stuff should make this worth buying. Especially if you're a fan of Elfman's movie soundtrack work.

What Great Music.......2003-05-11

I fell in love with the music of Danny Elfman when Beetlejuice came out. There was something different about the music that he made. When Edward Scissorhands, and then Nightmare Before Christmas - I knew this man was a musical master. Its the verbal form of surrealism.

super.......2003-04-17

What a great CD. Danny's music is so original and inventive. this CD contains his pre 90's quirky, gothic music. it's all very well written and beautifully orchestrated. batman and darkman contain some really excellent long, dark, gothic cues that really take u away from reality. in my opinion no one, apart from howard shore, is as inventive and original as danny in the world of filmmusic. he far surpasses the repetitive works of williams or horner. buy this, and volume two, and keep supporting one of the greatest film composers of all time.ohh...and buy fellowship of the ring and two towers by howard shore....amazing work!

Average customer rating:

Wonderful music, poor quality control.
So, I bought this one...
Forget Suzuki and Koopman, Gardiner is the man!
Two exquisite CDs!!!
A Pinnacle Achievement

Bach Cantatas, Vol. 1: City of London

Manufacturer: Soli Deo Gloria
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Bach Cantatas, Vol. 8: Bremen, Santiago
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Bach Cantatas, Vol. 24: Altenberg, Warwick
Bach: Cantatas Vol. 15

ASIN: B0006OR17K
Release Date: 2005-05-10

Tracks:

I. Aria: Ihr Menschen, Ruhmet Gottes Liebe
II. Recitativo: Gelobet Sei Der Herr Gott Israel
III. Aria (Duetto): Gottes Wort, Das Truget Nicht
IV. Recitativo: Des Weibes Samen Kam
V. Choral: Sei Lob Und Preis Mit Ehren
I. Coro: Christ Unser Herr Zum Jordan Kam
II. Aria: Merkt Und Hort, Ihr Menschenkinder
III. Recitativo: Dies Hat Gott Klar
IV. Aria: Des Vaters Stimme Liess Sich Horen
V. Recitativo: Als Jesus Dort Nach Seinen Leiden
VI. Aria: Alto Menschen, Glaubt Doch Dieser Gnade
VII. Choral: Das Aug Allein Das Wasser Sieht
I. Coro: Freue Dich, Erloste Schar
II. Recitativo: Wir Haben Rast
III. Aria: Gelobet Sei Gott, Gelobet Sein Name
IV. Recitativo: Der Herold Kommt Und Meldt Den Konig An
V. Aria: Kommt, Ihr Angefochtnen Sunder
VI. Choral: Eine Stimme Lasst Sich Horen
VII. Recitativo: So Bist Du Denn, Mein Heil, Bedacht
VIII. Aria: Ich Will Nun Hassen
IX. Recitativo: Und Obwohl Sonst Der Unbestand
X. Aria: Eilt, Ihr Stunden, Kommt Herbei
XI. Recitativo: Geduld, Der Angenehme Tag
XII. Coro: Freue Dich, Geheil'gte Schar

Tracks:

Coro: Die Elenden Sollen Essen
II. Recitativo: Was Hilft Des Purpurs Majestat
III. Aria: Mein Jesus Soll Mein Alles Sein!
IV. Recitativo: Gott Sturzet Und Erhohet
V. Aria: Ich Nehme Mein Leiden Mit Freuden Auf Mich
VI. Recitativo: Indes Schenkt Gott Ein Gut' Geweissen
VII. Choral: Was Gott Tut, Das Ist Wohlgetan
VIII. Sinfonia
IX. Recitativo: Nur Eines Krankt
X. Aria: Jesus Macht Mich Geistlich Reich
XI. Recitativo: Wer Nur In Jesu Bleibt
XII. Aria Mein Herze Glaubt Und Liebt
XIII. Recitativo: O Armut, Der Kein Reichtum Gleicht!
XIV. Choral: Was Gott Tut, Das Ist Wohlgetan
I. Coro: Brich Dem Hungrigen Dein Brot
II. Recitativo: Der Reiche Gott Wirft Seinen Uberfluss
III. Aria: Seinem Schopfer Noch Auf Erden
IV. Aria: Wohlzutun Und Mitzuteilen Vergesset Nicht
V. Aria: Hochster, Was Ich Habe
VI. Recitativo: Wie Soll Ich Dir, O Herr
VII. Choral Selig Sind, Die Aus Erbarmen
I. Coro: O Ewigkeit, Du Donnerwort
II. Recitativo: Tenor Kein Ungluck Ist In Aller Welt Zu Finden
III. Aria: Ewigkeit, Du Machst Mir Bange
IV. Recitativo: Gesetzt, Es Dau'rte Der Verdammten Qual
V. Aria: Gott Ist Gerecht In Seinen Werken
VI. Aria: O Mensch, Errette Deine Seele
VII. Choral: Solang Ein Gott Im Himmel Lebt
VIII. Aria: Wacht Auf, Wacht Auf, Verloren Schafe
IX. Recitativo: Verlass, O Mensch, Die Wollust Dieser Welt
X. Aria (Duetto): O Menschenkind
XI. Choral: O Ewigkeit, Du Donnerwort

Amazon.com

This is the first of many volumes recording a Pilgrimage made in 2000, when John Eliot Gardiner, his remarkable instrumentalists and chorus and a team of outstanding soloists performed each Bach Cantata on the feast day for which it was originally composed. Each box will contain 2 CDs, copious notes, and full texts and translations. The fact of the Pilgrimage aside, these performances are simply stunning. Gardiner treats each cantata like a little drama, and his players and singers make certain to dramatize the music and text vividly. When, in Cantata No. 20, the tenor sings of "flames that burn forever," for example, the wildly difficult coloratura and accompanying strings slash with heat. Elsewhere, the listener will bask in Cantata 30's oddly rhythmic alto solo with flute and muted violins. The chorus is excellent throughout, but they dazzle in the 8-minute opening to Cantata 7. The soloists are well-known Bach singers, lieder singers, and performers from the world of opera. Bass Dietrich Henschel and tenor Paul Agnew are, perhaps, the finest of the five, and they have the most to do as well. This is a glorious set of six cantatas, a splendid 2.5 hours of great music-making. --Robert Levine

Customer Reviews:

Wonderful music, poor quality control........2006-11-29

I have ordered and received two copies of this set, and in both sets the second CD refused to play. I wonder, are others are having this problem?

So, I bought this one..........2006-10-12

(Sorry! I goofed! That should have been FIVE stars!)

..and promptly put down my order for the lot. I already have two sets of cantatas, those by Rilling (the first complete cantatas ever recorded) and the Brilliant label set by Leusink, the former recorded over many years, the latter recorded in a breakneck 15 months. I also have many of the excellent Bach Collegium Japan/Suzuki set for BIS. As you may have gathered, I like the cantatas! However, this promises to be something special. It seems to me that Gardiner's Bach now is fully rounded, as good in the reflective material as in the bright, festive stuff, capturing the soul of Bach's work. In addition, these are the most beautifuly packaged CDs I've seen - little hardback books with the CDs in sleeves at either end and the texts in the middle, along with excerpts from a journal kept by Gardiner on the pilgrimage, with his thoughts on the particular cantatas. And of course Steve McCurry's gorgeous cover photos. Subsequent volumes have lived up to the promise of this one, so I'm making room on the shelves for a lot more. In my opinion, the only serious competition that this set has is Suzuki. If only I had enough money... Highly recommended.

Forget Suzuki and Koopman, Gardiner is the man!.......2006-04-28

There are currently three Bach Cantata series underway. Sir John Elliott Gardiner is the most recent additon to a field that already contains Suzuki/Bach Collegium Japan on BIS and Koopman/Amsterdam Baroque Orchestra on Challenge. Gardiner undertook recording the complete Catata's on the Sunday's for which they were composed in 2000. The first results released is this Grammophone Award Winner. This is the most spiritual Bach on record.

Two exquisite CDs!!!.......2006-03-18

Listen the Coro of BWV39 (Brich dem Hungrigen dein Brot), it is the most beautiful and delicated interpretation I ever heard!!! Or the aria duet and first bass aria in bwv20 Or the entire cantatas 167, 7, 30 or .... well. Listen all!! All the interpretations in these two CDs are perfect and lovely made!!!
Long life to Bach!!!!

A Pinnacle Achievement.......2006-02-16

John Eliot Gardner's Project - performing all of the myriad Bach cantatas on the Feast Days for which they were composed - is a daunting effort and one that may seem a bit on the Hollywood side of commercialism were it not for the quality of the finished concept.

These performances of Cantatas No. 7, 20, 30, 39, 75 and 167 are beautifully performed by the English Baroque Soloists (instrumentalists and chorus) with Wilke te Brummelstroete , Dietrich Henschel , Gillian Keith , Paul Agnew, and Joann Lund as the extraordinary soloists.

Gardiner finds the right tempi, flavor, and drama of each of these cantatas, emphasizing the style of performance from Bach's time. The results are top-notch, technically superb, elegantly performed works that stand with the best of the recorded versions. The Sonics of the recordings are excellent and the 'packaging' includes translations and informative, if somewhat exhaustive, notes on the derivation and history of each of the cantatas. This is Volume 1 and to be sure it will encourage the listener to purchase the entire set. Recommended. Grady Harp, February 06

Average customer rating:

Everyone a gem
Magic

Julie Is Her Name, Vol. 1
Julie London
Manufacturer: Rev-Ola
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Julie Is Her Name, Vol. 2
About the Blues
Lonely Girl/Make Love to Me
Sings the Standards
Around Midnight

ASIN: B000EQIO4E
Release Date: 2006-05-15

Tracks:

Say It Isn't So
It Never Entered My Mind
Easy Street
'S Wonderful
No Moon at All
Laura
Gone with the Wind
Cry Me a River
I Should Care
I'm in the Mood for Love
I'm Glad There Is You
Can't Help Lovin' That Man
I Love You

Album Description

Julie's first album from 1955 set out her stall for all time, soft eroticism and single entendre, with sparse accompaniment for a late night groove that has been hard for generations to resist...with Barney Kessel's muted guitar and Ray Leatherwood's subtle bass the only sound apart from Julie's own bedroom whisper...just try to resist. 13 tracks wonderfully packaged with pics of the sultry Miss London and full of notes. Revola. 2006.

Customer Reviews:

Everyone a gem.......2007-05-07

This Album changed my appreciation of music for life. Rock & Roll with it's 3 chord 12 bar blues & 4 chord turnaround formats seemed boring when compared to the guitar playing of Barney Kessell accompanied by Ray Leatherwood on base and the superb vocals of Julie London. This is the epitome of this musical genre and nothing has surpassed it for me.
I love all 13 tracks and can see little point in reviewing each one individually. Off course "Cry Me a River" became Julie's trademark and has been immitated by many top female vocalists. Some how Julie's version remains the best.

Magic.......2007-03-31

I owned this album in the 50's, and though I always hated the cover, the voice is pure magic.

In London 1930-34, Vol. 1: Midnight, The Stars and You

Average customer rating:

Love this era of music!
The "Early England" Years of the Ray Noble Dance Orchestra
Reminisce the "Good Ol' Days"

In London 1930-34, Vol. 1: Midnight, The Stars and You
Ray Noble and His New Mayfair Dance Orchestra
Manufacturer: Rathbone
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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The Very Thought of You
The Dance Band Years
In London 1930-1934, Vol. 2: Try a Little Tenderness
Best of Al Bowlly
Lovable & Sweet: 25 Vintage Hits

ASIN: B00009IAYE
Release Date: 2003-05-27

Tracks:

Make Yourself a Happiness Pie
I'll Be Good Because of You
Tunes of Not So Long Ago (1921): Ain't We Got Fun/Coal Black Mammy
Down Sunnyside Lane
Twentieth Century Blues
One Little Quarrel
With Love in My Heart
Living in Clover
Songs Everybody Is Singing: Live, Laugh and Love/By the ...
Love Is the Sweetest Thing
Song of the Bells
Bedtime Story
It's Within Your Power
Pettin' in the Park
It's Bad for Me
Midnight, The Stars and You
One Morning in May
I Love You Truly
Over My Shoulder
Remember Me
Isle of Capri
Every Day Away from You - Ray Noble
I Can't Get Mississippi Off My Mind - Al Bowlly,
Sun Is 'Round the Corner - Ray Noble

Customer Reviews:

Love this era of music!.......2007-01-04

I love this era of music, but it reminds me of the music used on the soundtrack of the original Stephen King movie adaptation of "The Shining" which, unfortunately, was not what I was hoping for!

The "Early England" Years of the Ray Noble Dance Orchestra.......2004-08-06

My Dad was an electrical engineer and a ham radio operator in the late-1930's. He had some of the best shortwave receivers available at that time and a really "hot" antenna system that he designed. All of the preceding is to set the stage for my local and shortwave radio listening in the late thirties. I found an English station (usually loud and clear)and their recordings of English dance bands of the early thirties and got hooked on Ray Noble and his male vocalist,Al Bowlly, when I was barely ten years old. I was elated to find this CD copy of some of Ray's greatest early recordings. This CD is a classic vis-a-vis portraying the technical aspects of the dance music orchestration and vocalization of that era. The unique --- yet typical of that time --- voice of Al Bowlly was a trademark for the then-popular Rudy Valley and Art Tracy style of singing. Al's voice was smooth and well modulated with less "nasal" qualities than many of the Rudy Valley sing-alikes of that time. Ray Noble's orchestra was a cut above many of his American contemporaries and their "big bands". This was mainly because of Ray's passion for perfection and his genius in composing, selecting and arranging music. Ray moved to America in the late thirties and worked with Glenn Miller to form the "American" Ray Noble Orchestra.I remember hearing him frequently as the "lead-in and interlude" orchestra for weekly radio shows of the late thirties and early forties.Ray often engaged in comic patter and dialogue with the show principals.I enjoyed his smooth English accent and humor almost as much as I enjoyed his music.

If you can remember the thirties (you'd have to be in your seventies, at least)or if you have a penchant for dance music of the early thirties then this CD is a must.

Incidentally, if you're a fan of the current daily (evening) radio talk/commentary show, John Batchellor, heard on ABC stations, you have heard the title song of this album. John regularly spins about one minute of the song (and frequently comments on the recording date and vocalist's name)as his sign-off theme. He mentions at times that Al's career was abruptly ended, and tragically so, when he was killed by a bomb explosion during the German Luftwaffe's Blitz of London in April 1941.

Reminisce the "Good Ol' Days".......2004-05-15

This CD of Ray Noble and His New Mayfair Dance Orchestra is the first in a series of 10 CDs compiling every recording that crooner Al Bowlly made with the Ray Noble Orchestra in the 1930s. On this first CD you will find 24 songs recorded between 1930-1934. Among them is the timeless classic, "Midnight, the Stars, and You", recorded February 16, 1934. When you reminisce and think of The Good Ol' Days --- the days of simpler, kinder times --- it is this song that evokes and defines that feeling. This is a must CD for those who enjoy the quiet tranquillity that only the Big Band Music of the 1930s can bring. You will not be disappointed.

Average customer rating:

Strictly for Progressive Rock aficionados
GREAT COMPILATION OF RENAISSANCE!
Excellent 70s Prog Rock!
"Novella" is not represented;but also Ashes are burning ...
your going to love this !

Tales of 1001 Nights, Vol. 1
Renaissance
Manufacturer: Sire / London/Rhino
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Tales of 1001 Nights, Vol. 2
Scheherazade & Other Stories
Novella
Turn of the Cards
Ashes Are Burning

ASIN: B000002LKN
Release Date: 1990-03-16

Tracks:

Prologue
Can You Understand
Carpet Of The Sun
Running Hard
I Think Of You
Black Flame
Mother Russia
Ocean Gypsy
Trip To The Fair
The Vultures Fly High
The Young Prince And Princess As Told By Scheherazade

Amazon.com

Like a prog-rock Pentangle, Renaissance served up a pleasing melange of classical, Celtic, pop, and rock influences that reached its peak during the mid-'70s recordings anthologized here. Live renditions of "Can You Understand" and "Carpet of the Sun" prove the band was as technically proficient (and long-winded!) on stage as they were in the studio. Annie Haslam's sweetly operatic vocals are complemented by orchestral-strength rock arrangements, including that obligatory Rickenbacker bass sound. With the inclusion of "Running Hard" and "Mother Russia," this collection features most of the band's best-known songs, although "Ashes Are Burning" is conspicuously absent. (Had to save something for volume two.) --Billy Grenier

Customer Reviews:

Strictly for Progressive Rock aficionados.......2005-10-08

If one's musical inclination lies in the fusion of folk, rock and classical music, then "Tales of 1001 Nights -- Vols. I & II" by Renaissance should resonate comfortably with you.

Similar in musicality to Mannheim Steam Roller, but interwoven with thoughtful lyrics from Cornish poetess Betty Thatcher, many of the masterpieces which brought international acclaim to this seventies 'art rock' group are faithfully represented here, both in their Carnegie Hall and studio recordings between 1971 and 1979.

While the inclusion of "Rajah Khan", "The Flood at Lyons" and "Sisters" would have been nice additions to either of these albums (or perhaps another album a la "Tales of 1001 Nights -- Vol. 3"), it is nonetheless an absolute delight to hear many of Michael Dunford's skillfully crafted compositions, Annie Haslam's soaring vocals, Terry Sullivan's classical interpretations on keyboard, Jon Camp's lead bass and John Tout's percussion preserved on two CDs for future generations.

Though critics often label Renaissance a 'pretentious' progressive rock band, one should consider their musical repertoire in the context of instruments available and musical styles other bands had covered up to this time, in which case one will then realise the innovation and intelligence of these meistersingers.

GREAT COMPILATION OF RENAISSANCE!.......2005-05-26

This CD is well worth owning - especially if you can only have ONE Renaissance CD in a "limited collection". Although a CD it should whet your appetite for more Renaissance - perhaps in other formats. The song "I Think of You" which in some ways sounds like it belongs in a romantic film is, to put it mildly, simply captivating. Annie Haslam's sexy and dream-like vocals carries you to the past and back again. Carpet of the Sun demostrates that the band did actually come across quite well LIVE and did not rely on studio "gimmicks" to project imagery, fantasy, and imagination. I prefer this CD to the "VOL II" version which contains mostly later songs.

Excellent 70s Prog Rock!.......2003-04-05

The liner notes to this compilation say it all - there are two kind of people: those who've never heard of Renaissance and those that have and LOVE THEM.

For those who are new to Renaissance, this collection of their songs is a great place to start; this and "volume two." Think of Yes with an opera-trained female singer and you're kinda close to the Renaissance sound: progressive time and tempo changes, ambitious lyrical themes, the use of orchestral instruments, and the Rickenbacker electric bass! Jon Camp plays his Rickenbacker in the same manner as Chris Squire (Yes), approaching the bass guitar as though it were a melody instrument.

This first volume of their two-volume "best of" CDs begins with an "instrumental" that appeared on their first album, although this disc uses a live version. It's MOSTLY instrumental - a reworking of themes used in Russian classical music - though it also contains a vocalise from the angel-voiced Annie Haslam.

The CD continues with two more songs from the band's live Carnegie Hall album, including one of my favorite Renaissance songs, "Carpet of the Sun." (I'd have prefered the studio version of the song, from the "Ashes are Burning" album.) If you've only heard ONE Renaissance song in your life, it was probably this beautiful acoustic song; it was the closest the band ever came to a "hit."

More classic Renaissance songs follow, and one begins to hear the similarities between this band and that other 70s Progressive Rock band from England, Yes. But as wonderful as Jon Anderson's voice was (and still is, all these years later), Renaissance has the added advantage of vocalist Annie Haslam, who was trained by a world-reknowned opera singer and reportedly has an 8-octave range! Some may find this "opera" style of singing a little too much to bear, but it's the voice of the band and the reason so many fans love them!

If you like Yes and other Progressive Rock bands, check out this CD.

"Novella" is not represented;but also Ashes are burning ..........2003-03-25

Well the album "Novella" is not represented here, but also "Ashes are burning" is almost completely absent (except on the tracks "Carpet of the sun" and "Can you understand"). Usually I don't like such collections, even though I must admit that instead both "Turn of the cards" and "Scheherazade" are well included within; and moreover the ouput is quite excellent for a novice, such a good representation of their remarkable career.Otherwise I can't feel to recommend this anthology- as a perfect place to start-to every one who wants to know the best Renaissance stuff;in fact despite of containing some of the best pieces of music art,regarding their most famous and probably best albums, you don't find here some other jewels (I think also of the splendid title track within the album "A song for all season's, which is probably their best symphonic prog mini-suite, or "Can you hear me" from "Novella" -another must-have- which unfortunately have not been included here.)

Remarkable,even though not completely essential,collection by Renaissance...

your going to love this !.......2003-01-03

What a treat this CD turned out to be infact after playing it just once I ordered VOL 2. First of all the sound quality is remarkable considering this material comes largely from the early 70`s. This is a band thats not frightened to challenge conventional progressive boundaries, not only that they get big results . For me Renaissance are like a more restraint version of all the older progressive bands, they include odd timing meters and loads of classical orientation. Perhaps the big plus to Renaissance apart from there fantastic musical composisions is Annie Haslam, WOW what a great voice she has (beautiful) yet also dynamic, and the keyboard work of John Tout will surely not go unoticed on this CD. To sum it up it runs for over 70 minutes and in all of that time I cant say there is a bad song on it. When they compiled this CD they must have really thought long and hard about it because I have listened to many progressive bands and rarely before have i heard such beauty.
I guess for me this was a perfect selection (being new to Renaissance) I plan to get every one of there CD`s but this was a great place to start . I hope you like Renaissance as much as I do, if you like prog with classical influences your going to love this !

Average customer rating:

Django yes--- sound no.
The Second Most Affordable Reinhardt Collection
Bouncin' Around
Great guitar... and beyond!
More Great Django, but without Ted Kendall

Paris and London: 1937-1948, Vol. 2
Django Reinhardt
Manufacturer: Jsp Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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The Classic Early Recordings in Chronological Order
Django in Rome 1949-1950
Quintette du Hot Club de France: 25 Classics 1934-1940
In Solitaire: Complete Recordings for Solo Guitar
Django Reinhardt - The Definitive Collection: Guitar Recorded Versions

ASIN: B00005A7KP
Release Date: 2001-05-08

Tracks:

St Louis Blues
Bouncin' Around
I've Found A New Baby
Bricktop
Speevey
Minor Swing
Viper's Dream
Swingin' With Django
Paramount Stomp
Bolero
Bolero
Mabel
Mabel
My Serenade
You Rascal You
Stephen's Blues
Sugar
Sweet Georgia Brown
Tea For Two

Tracks:

Stockholm
Younger Generation
I'll See You In My Dreams
Echoes Of Spain
Out Of Nowhere
I Can't Give You Anything But Love
Naguine
Nuages
Rhythm Futur
Begin The Beguine
Blues
Coucou
Undecided
Swing 41
Nuages
Pour Vous
Fantasie Sur Une Danse Norvegienne
Vendredi
Liebesfreud
Mabel
Petits Mesonges
Les Yeux Noirs
Sweet Sue, Just You

Tracks:

Swing De Paris
Oiseaux Des Iles
All Of Me
Festival Swing
Dinette
Crepscule
Swing 42
Festival Swing 1942 (Part 2)
Belleville
Lentemente Mademoiselle
Douce Ambiance
Manoir Des Mes Reves
Oui
Cavalerie
Fleur D'Ennui
Blues Clair
Improvisation No.3 (Part 1)
Improvisation No.3 (Part 2)
Coquette
Django's Tiger
Embraceable You
Echoes Of France

Tracks:

Swingtime In Springtime
Yours And Mine
On The Sunny Side Of The Street
I Won't Dance
R Vingt Six
How High The Moon
Lover Man
Blue Lou
Blues
What Is This Thing Called Love?
Ol' Man River
Si Tu Savais
Eveline
Diminushing
Mike
Lady Be Good
Festival 48
Fantaisie
Bricktop
Just For Fun
To Each His Own (Symphonie)

Product Description

Disc 1: Paris 1937:
1. St. Louis Blues
2. Bouncin' Around
3. I've Found A New Baby
4. Bricktop
5. Speevey
6. Minor Swing
7. Viper's Dream
8. Swingin' With Django
9. Paramount Stomp
10. Bolero
11. Bolero
12. Mabel
13. Mabel
14. My Serenade
15. You Rascal You
16. Stephen's Blues
17. Sugar
18. Sweet Georgia Brown
19. Tea For Two

Disc 2: Paris 1939-1940:
1. Stockholm
2. Younger Generation
3. I'll See You In My Dreams
4. Echoes Of Spain
5. Out Of Nowhere
6. I Can't Give You Anything But Love
7. Naguine
8. Nuages
9. Rhythm Futur
10. Begin The Beguine
11. Blues
12. Coucou
13. Undecided
14. Swing 41
15. Nuages
16. Pour Vous
17. Fantaisie Sur Une Danse Norvegienne
18. Vendredi
19. Liebesfreud
20. Mabel
21. Petits Mesonges
22. Les Yeux Noirs
23. Sweet Sue-Just You

Disc 3: Paris & London 1940-1946:
1. Swing De Paris
2. Oiseaux Des Iles
3. All Of Me
4. Festival Swing
5. Dinette
6. Crepuscule
7. Swing 42
8. Festival Swing 1942 (Part 2)
9. Belleville
10. Lentement Mademoiselle
11. Douce Ambiance
12. Manoir De Mes Reves
13. Oui
14. Cavalerie
15. Fleur D'Ennui
16. Blues Clair
17. Improvisation No. 3 (Part 1)
18. Improvisation No. 3 (Part 2)
19. Coquette
20. Django's Tiger
21. Embraceable You
22. Echoes Of France

Disc 4: Paris 1946-1948:
1. Swingtime In Springtime
2. Yours And Mine
3. On The Sunny Side Of The Street
4. I Won't Dance
5. R Vingt Six
6. How High The Moon
7. Lover Man
8. Blue Lou
9. Blues
10. What Is This Thing Called Love?
11. Ol' Man River
12. Si Tu Savais
13. Eveline
14. Diminushing
15. Mike
16. Lady Be Good
17. Festival 48
18. Fantaisie
19. Bricktop
20. Just For Fun
21. To Each His Own (Symphonie)

Format: CD

Amazon.com

JSP's follow-up to their must-have bargain-priced box set of Django Reinhardt's early recordings is every bit as essential and fascinating for lovers of jazz guitar. Between 1937 and 1948, the world's best-known gypsy guitarist was leading some of the hottest jazz groups in Europe, with some of the most innovative arrangements imaginable. The story behind these sessions is almost as memorable as the material--somehow Reinhardt, despite being a gypsy, prospered through Nazi-occupied France while his peers either fled or perished. Due to the war, the classic lineup of the Quintet of the Hot Club of France evolved and eventually splintered into two groups--one with Stephane Grappelli on violin, another replacing him with the clarinet of Hubert Rostaing. But regardless of Reinhardt's accompaniment, the music-making heard here is nothing short of astounding. Whether swinging through standards ("All of Me," "I Can't Give You Anything But Love," "Sweet Georgia Brown") or performing some of his classic originals ("Nuages," "Swing 42"), whether alone ("Improvisations," "Tea for Two") or backed by more than a dozen friends ("Festival Swing"), this is some of Reinhardt's best music. JSP's remastering and transfers on these 60-year-old 78s is the finest yet available. Essential for swing fans, guitarists, or anyone wanting to know more about the history of jazz. --Jason Verlinde

Customer Reviews:

Django yes--- sound no........2006-11-21

Django is my man, and I've always found these to be some of his most fetching recordings. The sound is a bit bland for my tastes, though. JSP puts out an inconsistent product at times.

The Second Most Affordable Reinhardt Collection.......2004-10-09

In my opinion, "Paris & London 1937-48" is slightly better than "Classic Early Recordings in Chronogical Order". Considering the source material, JSP did an excellent job remastering this collection.

Bouncin' Around.......2003-01-15

For someone like me who loves every note Django Reinhardt ever played this 4-CD collection and another 5-CD set also available on Amazon, "Django Reinhardt: The Classic Early Recordings in Chronological Order," are the Holy Grail. Between the two sets I can load up the CD player with 9 discs and listen to this most unbelievable of all guitar players show off for hours at a time.

There is more swing, more fun, and more incredible guitar playing on these discs than you'll ever hear anywhere else.

Even though they contain no lengthy linear notes, 'free booklets,' posters, etc., these are, without a doubt, the greatest multi-disc box sets I have ever heard.

Great guitar... and beyond!.......2002-12-05

I got "Paris and London" and JSP's other great box set, "The Classic Early Recordings in Chronological Order," at roughly the same time, and for a while I listened constantly to the "Early Recordings" and pretty much neglected this set. One reason is that the "Early Recordings" are so great that I couldn't tear myself away, but another reason is that the "Paris and London" set includes more large-ensemble recordings that have taken me a little longer to appreciate. By my taste, at least, Django is at his best in small acoustic settings (e.g., in the famous Quintet of the Hot Club of France, or even soloing or just accompanied by piano). "Paris and London" does contain a number of songs by the original Hot Club (including Stephane Grappelli), and most of those rank with the very best on the "Early Recordings" set --- but there are also a number of wartime recordings (made while Grappelli was stranded in London) that have a more standard jazz ensemble sound (featuring Hubert Rostaing on clarinet in place of Grappelli's violin), as well as a few performed with large orchestras, and at first I found those a little less appealing. My view changed a little, though, when I read in Django's biography (by his contemporary, the French music critic Charles Delaunay) that by this stage of his career Django was becoming more interested in composing and arranging than in simply playing guitar, and that he felt there were more musical possibilities in larger groups than within the limitations of the string quintet (three guitars, bass and violin). So I've been going back and listening to these large-ensemble recordings with a new ear, and I guess I can say that it's expanded my musical horizons a little. As a guitarist myself, I'm naturally partial to Django's remarkable lead guitar playing, but with the larger groups his role is more like Duke Ellington's on the piano (that is, using his guitar more as the cohesion behind the arrangements than as a lead instrument). So on these recordings you get a fuller sense of Django's overall musical vision, beyond just his virtuoso guitar playing. In any case, even if you're mainly just interested in hearing Django's guitar, you won't be disappointed, because these recordings include some of his best. Also, I see that one reviewer criticized the sound quality of this set as compared to the "Early Recordings," but I'm not sure I'd agree. That reviewer may have better equipment and a more highly-trained ear than I do, but on my equipment these recordings sound just fine --- and in some cases even more sharp and clear than the "Early Recordings." In any case, don't let that consideration deter you from purchasing this great 4-CD set. If you don't already own the "Classic Early Recordings in Chronological Order," then by all means start with that. Then, if you like that set (and who wouldn't?), don't hesitate to get this one too. They both show Django at his best, and this one in particular shows his versatility and broad musical vision.

More Great Django, but without Ted Kendall.......2001-10-09

I certainly agree with the other reviewers about the music here being terrific. I also favor the small ensemble work rather than the larger aggregations. After all, there's more Django in the small arrangements.

But I do have to comment on the sound quality. One of the remarkable things about the first installment of this set (the 5 CD box) is its sound. Engineer Ted Kendall did a sterling job of collecting the best quality sources and then cutting as little as possible from the output to give us the music. By contrast, this set is far less impressive. There is much less depth to the bass and the high end has been truncated a bit too in the interest of getting rid of surface noise.

It is because of the sound that I give this set three stars (and really would give it three and one-half if there was that option).

Average customer rating:

Superb Volume of Vivaldi Cello Concertos

Vivaldi: Cello Concerti, Vol. 3

Manufacturer: Naxos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

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

4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music
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Vivaldi: Cello Concerti, Vol. 4
Vivaldi: Cello Concerti, Vol. 1
Vivaldi: Cello Concerti, Vol. 2
Vivaldi: Complete Bassoon Concertos, Vol. 1
Vivaldi: Complete Bassoon Concertos, Vol. 2

ASIN: B00000140D
Release Date: 1995-05-23

Tracks:

Concerto In B Flat Major, RV 423: Allegro
Concerto In B Flat Major, RV 423: Largo
Concerto In B Flat Major, RV 423: Allegro
Concerto In C Minor, RV 402: Allegro
Concerto In C Minor, RV 402: Adagio
Concerto In C Minor, RV 402: Allegro
Concerto In A Minor, RV 418: Allegro
Concerto In A Minor, RV 418: Largo
Concerto In A Minor, RV 418: Allegro
Concerto In D Major, RV 403: Allegro
Concerto In D Major, RV 403: Andante E Spiritoso
Concerto In D Major, RV 403: Allegro
Concerto In B Minor, RV 424: Allegro Non Molto
Concerto In B Minor, RV 424: Largo
Concerto In B Minor, RV 424: Allegro
Concerto In D Minor, RV 407: Concerto in D Minor, Allegro
Concerto In D Minor, RV 407: Largo E Sempre Piano
Concerto In D Minor, RV 407: Allegro
Concerto In E Minor, RV 409: Adagio - Allegro Molto
Concerto In E Minor, RV 409: Allegro - Adagio
Concerto In E Minor, RV 409: Allegro

Customer Reviews:

Superb Volume of Vivaldi Cello Concertos.......2007-03-24

This is Volume 3 in a set of four excellent discs of Vivaldi's fine Cello Concerti. All four of these CDs are very good indeed, but arguably this one is the best of the bunch. The soloist is Raphael Wallfisch, who consistently plays very well. The City of London Sinfonia led by Nicholas Kraemer, is a wonderful partner to the soloist. The Concerto in D minor (RV 407) is one of Vivaldi's most inspired works, performed quite nicely on this recording. Also, the cello is joined by bassoon for good effect in the Concerto in E minor (RV 409). The sound quality is absolutely first rate. The Penguin Guide enthusiastically recommends all four of these Cello Concerti volumes, but reserves their highest praise to this Volume 3, awarding it their coveted "Rosette". Without a doubt, you will not be disappointed in the slightest if you purchase this disc. Any lover of Vivaldi is sure to be satisfied, and the price is easy on the budget. In case the reader is not aware by now, many a Naxos recording has been highly praised by an abundant number of respected critics. This reviewer is just one of many buyers of their CDs that can wholeheartedly agree with them.

Music:

Music