Since

Amazon.com's Best of 1998
With Since, California troubadour Richard Buckner has found a way to give his high-concentrate vocals and heavyhearted lyrical pensiveness a flattering dash of ebullience. But fear not, fans of such modern country-dread touchstones as Devotion + Doubt and Bloomed: this is still the man who can summon the essence of such disparate spirits as Nick Drake and the Louvin Brothers while remaining ever faithful to his own wounded soul. --Steven Stolder

Amazon.com essential recording
With his deep, gently blurred voice and wandering minor-chord songs, Buckner has created his most intensely beautiful and evocative album with Since. He's taken the spare sounds and textures of Devotion + Doubt, a record lauded by many but heard by few, and draped them behind a dense sonic scrim. In the past Buckner has relied on his voice to carry the hefty emotional freight of his lyrics of loss and desperation, but here, with a band that includes, in Buckner's words, "all the musicians I dreamed of recording with," he is free to liberate his baritone, and it slips and slides wonderfully throughout. There's an exuberance here; his subject matter hasn't changed, but he attacks it with an enthusiastic bombast. The songs are crammed right up against each other, and the lyrics are a cavalcade of paired alliteration ("horsey and the hopper", "brief and boundless", "twiced and townless"), oft-repeated favorite words (razed, faith, floor, rain, moon, li'l), and huge emotions hidden in small acts. It's a murky dream Buckner wanders; his opaque poetry suggests more than explains. It's hard to get a handle on exactly what is going on with such lines as "If I ever leave this 10-day room / I'll send my shallow ground to you." But the songs hit you--hard--just the same. --Tod Nelson

Since

Since,Richard Buckner,Mca,Alternative Country,Country,Country-Folk,Folk & Traditional,Pop,Singer/Songwriter

Average customer rating: Innocence Mission is an appropriate name Sickenly too sweet absolutely love this album I Love You, Innocence Mission. works beautifully

Now the Day Is Over The Innocence Mission Manufacturer: Badman Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music Traditional Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music General | Children's Music | Styles | Music Lullabies | Children's Music | Styles | Music Similar Items: Befriended Glow We Walked in Song Birds of My Neighborhood Christ Is My Hope ASIN: B0002ZMJ4I Release Date: 2004-11-09

Tracks:

1. Stay Awake
2. Over The Rainbow
3. What A Wonderful World
4. Moon River
5. Somewhere A Star Shines For Everyone
6. Prelude In A
7. Once Upon A Summertime
8. My Love Goes With You
9. Edelweiss
10. Sonata No.8
11. Bye-Lo
12. It Is Well With My Soul
13. Now The Day Is Over

Amazon.com

The Innocence Mission have, over the course of a decade, created a half dozen albums which celebrate small pleasures, fragile details and the wistful edges of life. As the title suggests, Now the Day Is Over offers a set of lullabies. The dozen covers and one original were not all written as bedtime reveries, but it's a testament to the graceful nuances Don and Karen Peris that such a familiar song as "What A Wonderful World" can bring out the twinkling stars of nighttime with heartfelt purity. Free of embellishments, either internal or studio created, Karen's vocals are at once magical and direct. The trio has done much more than to simply streamline or slow down these selections, they've found the core of each number and built around it only that which is necessary. -- David Greenberger

Customer Reviews:

Innocence Mission is an appropriate name.......2007-06-02

Not the worst cd I have and certainly not offensive. However, lacks depth, character, and content. Could be good for the kids. Bought it because I fell in love with a track I heard on Radio Paradise. Overall I could have spent the money in other ways.

Sickenly too sweet.......2007-05-12

I am new to the Innocence Mission. We have a one year old baby, so a friend gave us this CD as a gift. For me, Karen Peris's voice has the "nails across the blackboard" effect on me. She has no range and her voice is cloying. I am not expecting rock 'n roll or anything like that, but I just cannot find anything attractive in her voice. She absolutely "Somewhere Over the Rainbow," a classic and a song that I want to associate with my relatively unspoiled childhood. Oh well, different strokes for different folks.

absolutely love this album.......2007-01-12

I play this album as part of my daughter's bedtime routine. I absolutely LOVE it. Has such a beautiful calmness to it. And as I sit their rocking with my daughter before I put her in her crib, it often brings both smiles to my face and tears to my eyes.

I Love You, Innocence Mission........2007-01-04

In the winter of '89-'90, I picked up The Innocence Mission's eponymous debut on cassette one evening in a mall in Muncie. During my solitary rural Indiana backroads return to Taylor Univ., I was introduced to the delightfully solid intangibility of these troubadours of Heart, Soul, and Mind. I wanted Don and Karen Peris to mother and father me, or to marry Karen, or to be a brother or sister of one, to experience in my life the meaningful connections that in song resonated on and strong without dwindling into the inevitable nihilism that so much of art does nowadays. (Soon realized they were Catholic Universalists or something like that.)Fan for life.

And so, I kept up with their oeuvre. Enjoying the experimental phases of beauty along with the return to simple folk beauty. "Bright as Yellow", on "Glow", piqued the world's interest on the "Empire Records" soundtrack. They toured at least a little with Lilith Fair one year. I found later they've done a blatantly spiritual album "Christ Is My Hope", and that Don (genius of guitar understatement/suggestion) has a couple of his own albums out. I still need to get those 3.

Anyway, the idea of a lullaby album from The Innocence Mission is so perfectly obvious that I never expected it. I mean, she sang songs to her "Someday Coming Child" (on "Umbrella") years before she birthed!

It is as perfect as it could be. Minimal in performance, maximal in effect. (With 3 little boys, I'm a connoisseur of artfully-lulling lullaby albums. Get the Disney Lullaby Album too--no, really--Greg Diakun and Fred Mollin create real art right under DisneyCorp's nose.)

Finally, Karen can sing me to sleep--and my family too.

works beautifully.......2006-10-18

I am a mother of twins and this CD was given to us as a gift. My babies fell asleep to this time after time and it was pleasant listening for both mom and dad. I plan on giving this as a gift to all my new parent friends.

Average customer rating: Very pleased Sumptuous and mellow One of the Best Collections of English Madrigals A Delightful Collection of English Madrigal A wide variety

All At Once Well Met: English Madrigals; The King's Singers John Dowland , Thomas Morley , Thomas Weelkes , John Wilbye , William Byrd , John Farmer , and The King's Singers Manufacturer: EMI Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Byrd, William | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Dowland | Dowland, John | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Renaissance (c.1450-1600) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music King's Singers | ( K ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Madrigals | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Partsongs | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music A Cappella | Folk | Styles | Music $9.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Byrd, William | ( B ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Dowland, John | ( D ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music King's Singers | ( K ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Similar Items: English and Italian Renaissance Madrigals The King"s Singers: English Renaissance Olde English Madrigals & Folk Songs at Ely Cathedral Madrigal History Tour Annie Laurie ~ Folksongs of the British Isles / Barrueco · The King's Singers ASIN: B000002RPZ Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

1. English Madrigals: A Little Pretty Bonny Lass
2. English Madrigals: Weep No More, Thou Sorry Boy
3. English Madrigals: Shoot False Love
4. English Madrigals: Now Is The Month Of Maying
5. English Madrigals: Four Arms, Two Necks, One Wreathing
6. English Madrigals: Hark, All Ye Lovely Saints Above
7. English Madrigals: Since Robin Hood
8. English Madrigals: Though Philomela Lost Her Love
9. English Madrigals: O Wretched Man
10. English Madrigals: Weep, O Mine Eyes
11. English Madrigals: The Nightingale, The Organ Of Delight
12. English Madrigals: Come, Sirrah Jack, Ho!
13. English Madrigals: Cruel, Behold My Heavy Ending
14. English Madrigals: Fair Phyllis I Saw Sitting All Alone
15. English Madrigals: Sing We And Chant It
16. English Madrigals: On A Fair Morning
17. English Madrigals: Oft Have I Vowed
18. English Madrigals: Is Love A Boy?
19. English Madrigals: Say, Love, If Ever Thou Didst Find
20. English Madrigals: All At Once Well Met
21. English Madrigals: Construe My Meaning
22. English Madrigals: Lord! When I Think
23. English Madrigals: Cruel, Wilt Thou Persever
24. English Madrigals: Fine Knacks For Ladies
25. English Madrigals: Strike It Up, Tabor
26. English Madrigals: I Love, Alas I Love Thee
27. English Madrigals: Farwell, Dear Love
28. English Madrigals: See, See The Shepherd's Queen
29. English Madrigals: Have I Found Her
30. English Madrigals: Lady Your Words Do Spite Me
31. English Madrigals: Were I A King
32. English Madrigals: Come Again
33. English Madrigals: Tan Ta Ra, Cries Mars
34. English Madrigals: Why Should I Love?
35. English Madrigals: This Sweet And Merry Month Of May

Customer Reviews:

Very pleased.......2007-06-10

I wasn't sure what to expect when I bought this CD. True, I could have listened on line before buying but that would have taken the fun out of the purchase. Besides, I really didn't care for the CD the first couple of times I listened but now I really love it. It's not something to listen to all the time but given the right circumstances e.g. a small gathering of friends, it's perfect. If I'd listened to online, I wouldn't have purchased it.

Sumptuous and mellow.......2002-11-28

The six men of the King's Singers present sweet and light-hearted madrigals of such English composers as Morley, Weelkes, Dowland, Wilbye and Byrd. The thirty five selections include "Now is the Month of Maying", "Though Philomela Lost Her Love", "Sing We and Chant It," the celebration of tobacco entitled "Come, Sirrah Jack, Ho!" and a host of other fa-la-la-la-la venues interspersed with wistful laments. I love the rich, sonorous sound of a male vocal ensemble, with countertenors, tenor, baritones and bass, and these six singers do a great job. Occasional instrumental accompaniments by lute and tabor are included, but this group doesn't really need it--I could listen to them for hours all by themselves. Also quite enjoyable, as well as educational, is their earlier release, "The King's Singers' Madrigal History Tour: Italy, England, France, Spain and Germany". For a more risque' take on the vocal music of Renaissance England, you might get a kick out of "The Art of the Bawdy Song" by the Baltimore Consort with the Merry Companions.

One of the Best Collections of English Madrigals.......2002-03-27

Any fan of the King's Singers will regret not having this album in their collection.

This album offers a veritable feast of the choicest English madrigals found on any comparable album. From the obligatory "Now is the Month of Maying" and "Fair Phyllis" to the more obscure "Tan ta ra, cries Mars," there is certainly enough on this album to bring a smile to lovers of Renaissance music - and a spark of recognition to anyone who sang traditional madrigals in high school or university. For serious students of early music, this album comes very highly recommended.

Among the more sonorous offerings on this album, Jones' "Farewell, Dear Love" and Dowland's "Come Again," cannot be ignored. Nor can Bennet's immortal "Weep O mine eyes" be matched more musically than here by the King's Singers.

This album has been played again and again for almost 6 years as both serious listening and background working music. And it has yet to lose its delight.

A Delightful Collection of English Madrigal.......2000-08-16

With 35 tracts to enjoy you're sure to find a couple of favorites. I gave this CD 4 of 5 stars compared to 5 stars for the King's Singers World Madrigal Tour CD. If you prefer all your songs in English, this will be your 5 star CD. Tract 32 "Come again" is my favorite due to the surperb tenor lead and melodic development. Compared to many polyphonic early music styles (1300s-1485), this era (1500-1610) provides many memorable melodies.

A wide variety.......2000-04-28

This is an excellent sampling of English madrigals. This presentation, given by an older roster of the Singers, is a nice introduction to the world of the madrigal, and English madrigals in particular.

Average customer rating: You'll really enjoy it, as long as you're not an elitist lame-o Best usage of old clips to make melodies This was interesting in the '90s when it was called Shibuya-kei Heard by accident Best Party Album Ever

Since I Left You The Avalanches Manufacturer: Modular Interscope ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Alternative Dance | Alternative Styles | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Electronica | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Turntablists | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Big Beat | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Australia & New Zealand | International | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: At Last Alone Music Has The Right To Children Sound of Silver The Good, the Bad & the Queen Frontier Psychiatrist ASIN: B0002C4ILS Release Date: 2004-07-13

Tracks:

1. Since I Left You
2. Stay Another Season
3. Radio
4. Two Hearts In 3/4 Time
5. . Avalanche Rock
6. Flight Tonight
7. Close To You
8. Diners Only
9. Different Feeling, A
10. Electricity
11. Tonight May Have To Last Me All My Life
12. Pablo's Cruise
13. Frontier Psychiatrist - (video)
14. Etoh
15. Summer Crane
16. Little Journey
17. Live At Dominoes
18. Extra Kings

Album Description

This re-release was praised by the likes of Rolling Stone, Spin, URB, Blender, and more as "...utterly beyond anything heard to date." Playful, twisted, psychedelic, sampledelic, delirious, and infectious, it's the sound of six men who spent most of adolescence rummaging through bargain bins in Melbourne's record shops, constructing their own post-modern disco-pop amalgam from rubbish 50's rejects and saccharine 60's pap. Also available domestically for the first time on 180 gram double vinyl.

Customer Reviews:

You'll really enjoy it, as long as you're not an elitist lame-o.......2007-02-21

It's a remarkably well balanced album. I think what the other guy(the one who couldn't recommend the album) inaccurately describes as filler is simply variations in depth. There are some deeper r&b moments, then shades of deep house, disco, and shades, and shades, and it just kind of goes on like that for the duration of the album.....And this group weaves genres together like kaleidescope making it all seem so workable. Great effort. Simply seamless. It takes some real talent to take great musical moments in history and them put them together in a way that does all justice.

Pop this on at a house party with a bunch of people. Those that want to dance can, those that want to chill will, and everyone will be comfortable and happy.

Best usage of old clips to make melodies.......2006-10-28

This is the best example of music and sound mixing that I have ever heard. Period. It is smooth and melodic and makes you feel like you are outside at the beach on a breezy summer's day. I love every song on this album.

This was interesting in the '90s when it was called Shibuya-kei.......2006-05-16

It was interesting to see how Japanese kids interpreted years of American pop culture, made it their own, and then spit it back at us. That was really charming, good music. This record is an over produced, uninteresting sampling wankfest which can only be described as annoying. If you like this, you're not a bad person, you're just not looking hard enough for real music.

Heard by accident.......2006-05-15

I heard "Avalanche Rock" by accident, loved it, and had to listen to the whole album. It's funky, groovy and flows together beautifully. Deff recommended.

Best Party Album Ever.......2006-02-22

I don't understand how someone could say that some of the songs are just filler with only half the songs being good. Every single minute of the song there is something fascinating/interesting/beautiful/funky/meaningful/whimsical/subtle going on, although not all at the same time. This is in my top 5 favorite albums ever, (along with miles davis, faust, etc.), and I listened to it all the time for like 2 years. I never got sick of it, but gave it a rest just in case I were to ruin the freshness. There are new sounds and loops that I notice in the cd 3-4 years down the road, which is simply amazing considering how many times I've listened to it. Listen to it loud at a party, but also listen to it with headphones sometime to check out the dozens of layers of sound.

All the samples sound warm, organic, live, natural, and beautiful. They are put together in a mindblowingly complex/subtle/unique way, and they have an EXPERT way of continuing things for the perfect amount of time. The whole cd is like one beautiful, ever changing song. This is the only cd I know of that is like this. I can't compare it to anything, seriously. If someone finds another cd like this, please let us know. This is the kind of cd that I could burn for just about anybody and expect them to enjoy it. It's funky/danceable as hell, it's got alot of depth to it, it's psychedelic in the way all the songs connect and the strange samples, it has MANY MANY layers to it that all sync up perfectly, it's extremely unique, very creative, and just plain wonderful. It's everything I would want in a dj/samples/collage/dance/electronic cd and more. Sort of the way Bitches Brew by Miles Davis was for jazz/rock/improvised music/funk, this album is for dance/electronic/sampled music. Uncategorizable, timeless, a mix of many different styles combined perfectly, and subtle. I can't say enough about this cd. I've gotten more enjoyment out of Since I Left You than I've gotten out of 20 cd's combined. You should get it, and if you're at all open or sensitive to what the hell is going on, you'll dig it immensely.

Average customer rating: A musical treasure-box a beautiful journey into melancholy

Dowland - The Collected Works / The Consort of Musicke, Rooley John Dowland , Anthony Rooley , Emma Kirkby , Christopher Wilson , The Consort of Musicke , Colin Tilney , Anthony Bailes , Jakob Lindberg , Nigel North , Glenda Simpson , Peter Holman , and John Donne Manufacturer: Decca ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Byrd, William | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Dowland | Dowland, John | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Holborne, Anthony | ( H ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by White | White, Robert | ( W ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Sacred & Religious | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music | Requiems Ballets & Dances | Renaissance (c.1450-1600) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Renaissance (c.1450-1600) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Recorder | Reeds & Winds | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Lute | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Psalms | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Solo Instrumental | New Age | Styles | Music Classical | Box Sets | Stores | Music Blowout Box Sets | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 20% Off | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Byrd, William | ( B ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Dowland, John | ( D ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Holborne, Anthony | ( H ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music White, Robert | ( W ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Bargain Box Sets | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music Bargain Box Sets | Opera & Vocal General | Opera & Vocal | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Opera & Vocal General | Opera & Vocal | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music Similar Items: Dowland: Complete Lute Works, Vol.1-5 William Byrd: Consort Songs Bach: The Landowska Recordings Britten Conducts Britten Janácek: Operas ASIN: B000004CYV Release Date: 2007-03-13

Tracks:

1. First Booke Of Songes: I. Unquiet Thoughts
2. First Booke Of Songes: II. Who Ever Thinks Or Hopes Of Love
3. First Booke Of Songes: III. My Thoughts Are Wing'd With Hopes
4. First Booke Of Songes: IV. If My Complaints Could Passions Move
5. First Booke Of Songes: V. Can She Excuse My Wrongs
6. First Booke Of Songes: VI. Now, O Now, I Needs Must Part
7. First Booke Of Songes: VII. Dear, If You Change
8. First Booke Of Songes: VIII. Burst Fourth My Tears
9. First Booke Of Songes: IX. Go Crystal Tears
10. First Booke Of Songes: X. Think'st Thou Then By Thy Feigning
11. First Booke Of Songes: XI. Come Away, Come Sweet Love
12. First Booke Of Songes: XII. Rest Awhile, You Cruel Cares
13. First Booke Of Songes: XIII. Sleep, Wayward Thoughts
14. First Booke Of Songes: XIV. All Ye, Whom Love Or Fortune Hath Betray'd
15. First Booke Of Songes: XV. Wilt Thou Unkind Thus Reave Me
16. First Booke Of Songes: XVI. Would My Conceit
17. First Booke Of Songes: XVII. Come Again: Sweet Love Doth Now Invite
18. First Booke Of Songes: XVIII. His Golden Locks
19. First Booke Of Songes: XIX. Awake, Sweet Love
20. First Booke Of Songes: XX. Come, Heavy Sleep
21. First Booke Of Songes: XXI. Away With These Self-Loving Lads

Tracks:

1. Second Booke Of Songs: I. I Saw My Lady Weep
2. Second Booke Of Songs: II. Flow My Tears
3. Second Booke Of Songs: III. Sorrow, Stay
4. Second Booke Of Songs: IV. Die Not Before Thy Day
5. Second Booke Of Songs: V. Mourn, Mourn, Day Is With Darkness Fled
6. Second Booke Of Songs: VI. Time's Eldest Son
7. Second Booke Of Songs: VII. Then Sit Thee Down
8. Second Booke Of Songs: VIII. When Others Sing Venite
9. Second Booke Of Songs: IX. Praise Blindness Eyes
10. Second Booke Of Songs: X. O Sweet Woods
11. Second Booke Of Songs: XI. If Floods Of Tears
12. Second Booke Of Songs: XII. Fine Knacks For Ladies
13. Second Booke Of Songs: XIII. Now Cease My Wand'ring Eyes
14. Second Booke Of Songs: XIV. Come Ye Heavy States Of Night
15. Second Booke Of Songs: XV. White As Lilies Was Her Face
16. Second Booke Of Songs: XVI. Woeful Heart
17. Second Booke Of Songs: XVII. A Shepherd In A Shade
18. Second Booke Of Songs: XVIII. Faction That Ever Dwells
19. Second Booke Of Songs: XIX. Shall I Sue
20. Second Booke Of Songs: XX. Toss Not My Soul
21. Second Booke Of Songs: XXI. Clear Or Cloudy
22. Second Booke Of Songs: XXII. Humour Say What Mak'st Thou Here

Tracks:

1. Third Booke Of Songs 1603: I. Farewell, Too Fair
2. Third Booke Of Songs 1603: II. Time Stands Still
3. Third Booke Of Songs 1603: III. Behold A Wonder Here
4. Third Booke Of Songs 1603: IV. Daphne Was Not So Chaste
5. Third Booke Of Songs 1603: V. Me, Me, And None But Me
6. Third Booke Of Songs 1603: VI. When Phoebus First Did Daphne Love
7. Third Booke Of Songs 1603: VII. Say, Love, If Ever Thou Didst Find
8. Third Booke Of Songs 1603: VIII. Flow Not So Fast, Ye Fountains
9. Third Booke Of Songs 1603: IX. What If I Never Speed?
10. Third Booke Of Songs 1603: X. Love Stood Amazed
11. Third Booke Of Songs 1603: XI. Lend Your Ears To My Sorrow
12. Third Booke Of Songs 1603: XII. By A Fountain Where I Lay
13. Third Booke Of Songs 1603: XIII. O What Hath Overwrought
14. Third Booke Of Songs 1603: XIV. Farewell, Unkind
15. Third Booke Of Songs 1603: XV. Weep You No More, Sad Fountains
16. Third Booke Of Songs 1603: XVI. Fie On This Feigning!
17. Third Booke Of Songs 1603: XVII. I Must Complain
18. Third Booke Of Songs 1603: XVIII. It Was A Time When Silly Bees
19. Third Booke Of Songs 1603: XIX. The Lowest Trees Have Tops
20. Third Booke Of Songs 1603: XX. What Poor Astronomers Are They
21. Third Booke Of Songs 1603: XXI. Come When I Call

Tracks:

1. A Pilgrimes Solace: I. Disdain Me Still
2. A Pilgrimes Solace: II. Sweet Stay Awhile
3. A Pilgrimes Solace: III. To Ask For All Thy Love
4. A Pilgrimes Solace: IV. Love, Those Beams That Breed
5. A Pilgrimes Solace: V. Shall I Strive Wih Words To Move?
6. A Pilgrimes Solace: VI. Were Every Thought An Eye
7. A Pilgrimes Solace: VII. Stay, Time, Awhile Thy Flying
8. A Pilgrimes Solace: VIII. Tell Me, True Love
9. A Pilgrimes Solace: IX. Go Nightly Cares
10. A Pilgrimes Solace: X. From Silent Night
11. A Pilgrimes Solace: XI. Lasso vita mia
12. A Pilgrimes Solace: XII. In This Trembling Shadow Cast
13. A Pilgrimes Solace: XIII. If That A Sinner's Sights
14. A Pilgrimes Solace: XIV. Thou Mighty God
15. A Pilgrimes Solace: XV. When David's Life
16. A Pilgrimes Solace: XVI. When The Poor Cripple

Tracks:

1. A Pilgrimes Solace: XVII. Where Sin Sore Wounding
2. A Pilgrimes Solace: XVIII. My Heart And Tongue Were Twins
3. A Pilgrimes Solace: XIX. Up Merry Mates
4. A Pilgrimes Solace: XX. Welcome Black Night
5. A Pilgrimes Solace: XXI. Cease, Cease These False Sports
6. Keyboard Transcriptions Of Dowland's Music By Other Musicians: Lachrimae Pavane
7. Keyboard Transcriptions Of Dowland's Music By Other Musicians: Can Shee
8. Keyboard Transcriptions Of Dowland's Music By Other Musicians: Paduana
9. Keyboard Transcriptions Of Dowland's Music By Other Musicians: The Frogge
10. Keyboard Transcriptions Of Dowland's Music By Other Musicians: Frog's Galliard
11. Keyboard Transcriptions Of Dowland's Music By Other Musicians: Pavana And Galiarda
12. Keyboard Transcriptions Of Dowland's Music By Other Musicians: Paduana Lachrymae
13. Keyboard Transcriptions Of Dowland's Music By Other Musicians: Can She Excuse
14. Keyboard Transcriptions Of Dowland's Music By Other Musicians: Pavion Solus cum sola
15. Keyboard Transcriptions Of Dowland's Music By Other Musicians: Dowland's Almayne
16. Keyboard Transcriptions Of Dowland's Music By Other Musicians: Piper's Paven And Galliard
17. Keyboard Transcriptions Of Dowland's Music By Other Musicians: Pavan Lachrymae

Tracks:

1. Mr. Henry Noell Lamentations: I. The Lamentation Of A Sinner
2. Mr. Henry Noell Lamentations: II. Domine ne in furore
3. Mr. Henry Noell Lamentations: III. Miserere mei Deus
4. Mr. Henry Noell Lamentations: IV. The Humble Suit Of A Sinner
5. Mr. Henry Noell Lamentations: V. The Humble Complaint Of A Sinner
6. Mr. Henry Noell Lamentations: VI. De profundis
7. Mr. Henry Noell Lamentations: VII. Domine exaudi
8. Lachrimae: Lachrimae Antiquae
9. Lachrimae: Lachrimae Antiquae Novae
10. Lachrimae: Lachrimae Gementes
11. Lachrimae: Lachrimae Tristes
12. Lachrimae: Lachrimae Coactae
13. Lachrimae: Lachrimae Amantis
14. Lachrimae: Lachrimae Verae
15. Lachrimae: Mr. John Langton's Pavan
16. Lachrimae: Mr. Nicholas Gryffith His Galiard
17. Lachrimae: Sir John Souch His Galiard
18. Lachrimae: Semper Dowland Semper Dolens
19. Lachrimae: Mr. Giles Hobies Galiard
20. Lachrimae: The King Of Denmark's Galiard
21. Lachrimae: Sir Henry Umpton's Funerall
22. Lachrimae: Mr. Henry Noell His Galiard
23. Lachrimae: The Earl Of Essex Galiard
24. Lachrimae: Mr. Bucton His Galiard
25. Lachrimae: Mr. George Whitehead His Almand
26. Lachrimae: Captain Digorie Piper His Galiard
27. Lachrimae: Mr. Thomas Collier His Galiard
28. Lachrimae: Mrs. Nichols Almand

Tracks:

1. Sacred Songs: Sorrow, Come!
2. Sacred Songs: I Shame At Mine Unworthiness
3. Sacred Songs: An Heart That's Broken And Contrite
4. Psalms: Psalm 100: All People That On Earth Do Dwell
5. Psalms: Psalm 38: Put Me Not To Rebuke O Lord
6. Psalms: Psalm 130: Lord To Thee I Make My Moan
7. Psalms: Psalm 104: My Soul Praise The Lord
8. Psalms: Psalm 100: All People That On Earth Do Dwell
9. Psalms: Psalm 134: Behold And Have Regard
10. A Prayer For The Queen's Most Excellent Majesty
11. Instrumental Music: Solus cum sola pavan
12. Instrumental Music: Lachrimae
13. Instrumental Music: Galliard
14. Instrumental Music: Pipers Pavan
15. Instrumental Music: Lachrimae
16. Instrumental Music: Lady Rich Galliard
17. Instrumental Music: Earl Of Essex Galliard
18. Instrumental Music: If My Complaints
19. Instrumental Music: Lachrimae Doolande
20. Instrumental Music: Lord Willoughbie's Welcome Home
21. Instrumental Music: My Lord Chamberlaine His Galliard
22. Instrumental Music: Comagain
23. Instrumental Music: Pavan Lachrymae
24. Instrumental Music: Sorrow Stay

Tracks:

1. Lute Music: Preludium
2. Lute Music: Lachrimae
3. Lute Music: Can She Excuse
4. Lute Music: Dr. Case's Pavan
5. Lute Music: Melancholy Galliard
6. Lute Music: Sir John Smith, His Almain
7. Lute Music: Fantasia
8. Lute Music: A Dream
9. Lute Music: Almain
10. Lute Music: The Queen's Galliard
11. Lute Music: Coranto
12. Lute Music: Resolution
13. Lute Music: Mrs. Vaux Galliard
14. Lute Music: Almain
15. Lute Music: Mr. Dowland's MIdnight
16. Lute Music: Fantasia
17. Lute Music: Loth To Depart
18. Lute Music: The Most Sacred Queen Elizabeth, Her Galliard
19. Lute Music: The Earl Of Essex, His Galliard
20. Lute Music: Pavan
21. Lute Music: John Dowland's Galliard
22. Lute Music: Aloe
23. Lute Music: The Lady Clifton's Spirit
24. Lute Music: What If A Day
25. Lute Music: Mr. Giles Hobie's Galliard
26. Lute Music: Come Away (Song arrangement)
27. Lute Music: Galliard
28. Lute Music: Fancy (Fantasia)

Tracks:

1. Lute Music: Lachrimae (Basic Version)
2. Lute Music: Galliard To Lachrimae
3. Lute Music: [Jig]
4. Lute Music: Galliard On 'Wasingham'
5. Lute Music: Complaint (Ballad Setting)
6. Lute Music: Mignarda (Galliard)
7. Lute Music: Semper Dowland Semper Dolens (Pavan)
8. Lute Music: The Frog Galliard
9. Lute Music: A Fancy (Fantasia)
10. Lute Music: Fancy (Fantasia)
11. Lute Music: Piper's Pavan
12. Lute Music: Captain Digorie Piper's Galliard
13. Lute Music: Lady Laiton's Almain
14. Lute Music: Dowland's Galliard
15. Lute Music: Dowland's First Galliard
16. Lute Music: Tarleton's Jig
17. Lute Music: Walsingham (ballad Setting)
18. Lute Music: Lord Willoughbie's Welcome Home (Ballad Setting)
19. Lute Music: Sir Henry Guilforde, His Almain
20. Lute Music: Pavan (Related To 'Lachrimae')
21. Lute Music: Mr. Langton's Galliard
22. Lute Music: Mrs. Clifton's Almain
23. Lute Music: Galliard
24. Lute Music: Lady Hunsdon's Puffe (Almain)
25. Lute Music: Galliard
26. Lute Music: Go From My Window (Ballad Setting)
27. Lute Music: Fancy (Fantasia)

Tracks:

1. Lute Music: Pavana Johan Douland
2. Lute Music: Mrs. Brigide Fleetwood's Pavan (Solus sine sola)
3. Lute Music: La mia Barbara
4. Lute Music: Sir Henry Umpton's Funeral (Pavan)
5. Lute Music: Lachrimae
6. Lute Music: Farewell Fancy (Chromatic Fantasia)
7. Lute Music: Farewell (On The 'In Nomine' Theme)
8. Lute Music: The King of Denmark's Galliard
9. Lute Music: Mrs. Vaux's Jig
10. Lute Music: Mrs. Nichol's Almain
11. Lute Music: Galliard
12. Lute Music: Lord Strang's March
13. Lute Music: Mrs. Winter's Jump
14. Lute Music: Can She Excuse (Galliard)
15. Lute Music: The Shoemaker's Wife, A Toy
16. Lute Music: Mrs. Norrish's Delight
17. Lute Music: Galliard
18. Lute Music: Mrs. White's Thing (Almain)
19. Lute Music: Mrs. White's Nothing
20. Lute Music: The Frog Galliard
21. Lute Music: Solus cum sola
22. Lute Music: The Lord Viscount Lisle, His Galliard
23. Lute Music: Orlando Sleepeth (Ballad Setting)
24. Lute Music: Robin (Ballad Setting)
25. Lute Music: Galliard (On A Galliard By Daniel Bacheler)
26. Lute Music: Forlorn Hope Fancy (Chromatic Fantasia)

Tracks:

1. Lute Music: The Lady Russell's Pavan
2. Lute Music: Fancy (Fantasia)
3. Lute Music: Sir John Langton's Pavan
4. Lute Music: Earl Of Derby, His Galliard
5. Lute Music: A Coy Toy
6. Lute Music: Fortune My Foe
7. Lute Music: [Almain]
8. Lute Music: Mr. Knight's Galliard
9. Lute Music: Sir John Souch His Galliard
10. Lute Music: Tarletone's Riserrectione
11. Lute Music: The Lady Rich, Her Galliard
12. Consort Music: Lachrimae Pavan
13. Consort Music: Can She Excuse Galliard
14. Consort Music: Captain Piper's Pavan And Galliard
15. Consort Music: The Frog Galliard
16. Consort Music: Round Battell Galliard
17. Consort Music: Fortune My Foe
18. Consort Music: Dowland's First Galliard
19. Consort Music: Katherine Darcie's Galliard
20. Consort Music: Tarleton's Jigge
21. Consort Music: Almain a 2
22. Consort Music: Mistress Nichols Almain a 2
23. Fullsack And Hildebrandt: Auserlesener Paduanen und Galliarden: Susanna Fair (Galliard)
24. Haussmann: Rest von polnischen und andern Tanzen: Mistress Nichols Alman a 5
25. Opusculum: Mr. John Langton Pavan And Galliard
26. Opusculum: La mia Barbara Pavan and Galliard
27. Opusculum: Lachrimae Antiquae Novae Pavan and Galliard

Tracks:

1. Consort Music: Mistress NIchols Almain
2. Consort Music: Volta a 4 ('Ioh. Douland')
3. Consort Music: Were Every Thought an Eye
4. Consort Music: Lady If You So Spite Me
5. Consort Music: Pavan a 4
6. A Musicall Banquet: I. My Heavy Sprite (Anthony Holborne)
7. A Musicall Banquet: II. Change Thy Mind Since She Doth Change (Richard Martin)
8. A Musicall Banquet: III. O Eyes, Leave Off Your Weeping (Robert Hales)
9. A Musicall Banquet: IV. Go, My Flock, Go Get You Hence (Anon.)
10. A Musicall Banquet: V. O Dear Life, When Shall It Be? (Anon.)
11. A Musicall Banquet: VI. To Plead My Faith (Daniel Bacheler)
12. A Musicall Banquet: VII. In A Grove Most Rich Of Shade (Guillaume Tessier)
13. A Musicall Banquet: VIII. Far From Triumphing Court
14. A Musicall Banquet: IX. Lady, If You So Spite Me
15. A Musicall Banquet: X. In Darkness Let Me Dwell
16. A Musicall Banquet: XI. Si le parler et le silence (Pierre Guedron)
17. A Musicall Banquet: XII. Ce penser qui sans fin tirannise ma vie (Pierre Guedron)
18. A Musicall Banquet: XIII. Vous que le Bonheur rappelle (Pierre Guedron)
19. A Musicall Banquet: XIV. Passava Amor su arco desarmado (Anon. Spanish)
20. A Musicall Banquet: XV. Sta notte mi sognava (Anon. Italian)
21. A Musicall Banquet: XVI. Vuestros ojos tienen d'Amor (Anon. Spanish)
22. A Musicall Banquet: XVII. Se di farmi morire (Domenico Maria Megli)
23. A Musicall Banquet: XVIII. Dovro dunque morire? (Giulio Caccini)
24. A Musicall Banquet: XIX. Amarilli mia bella (Giulio Caccini)
25. A Musicall Banquet: XX. O bella piu (Anon, Italian)

Customer Reviews:

A musical treasure-box.......2006-09-10

Both the music and this actual product are masterpieces. John Dowland's collected works here - covering 12 compact discs - exhibit the depth and power of this composer, a composer who many now regard as suffering from clinical depression. I doubt that the issue of the diagnosis of Dowland's depression can ever be settled, however, it is certainly obvious from his music, so completely on display here, that he was a man with very dark depths and corners in his mind. Dowland's various manifestations and "takes" on his own tune, "Flow my tears"/"Lachrimae" are here. This tune has haunted me ever since I first heard it when I was a child. It seems to sum up Dowland's feelings - at least Dowland seems to have thought so.

The First, Second, Third and Fourth Bookes of Songes, A Musicall Banquet, the keyboard transcriptions, all the lute music, consort music are here and virtually everything else written or supposedly written by John Dowland. Anthony Rooley and The Consort of Musicke perform this music with style and feeling throughout. This 12 CD set is something of a monument to the ensemble - I only wish they'd finished their collection of Monteverdi madrigals, which was equally good (La Venexiana are currently doing a magnificent job of recording all Monteverdi's books of madrigals for the GLOSSA label).

This is an expensive set, however, you will probably never need to buy another John Dowland CD again after buying and listening to this collection.

I bought this CD set on a mild Summer evening of 1998 and listened to it while sitting in my sun room - which a glorious orange sunset in progress, and a glass of wine. It brought back so many memories.

a beautiful journey into melancholy.......2001-06-15

I'm amazed at how many people tend to associate John Dowland's music with a tragic sense of drama. While no doubt this is art highly based on sadness, the "tragic" sense of it is more a legacy from the Romantic period. During the Renaissance, however, sadness was undestood as a very aesthetic way of approaching life. That is also the reason why Shakespeare's tragedies appear more sophisticated than his comedies.

Dowland, a contemporary of Shakespeare, discovered that meditating on a sad theme is, at the same time, a way of discovering a special beauty that we tend to avoid (maybe because of the "tragic" heritage of the Romantics). So, in the end, meditating on sadness is an uplifting experience! This box set is a journey into melancholy that includes songs, chamber music, pieces for lute, some rare sacred music and -as a highlight- Dowland's beautiful collection of seven pieces for viola which he called "Lachrimae" (Tears).

Average customer rating: Viva Raul!!!! 9 "Nine" is spectacular! ...Their sound can last a hundred years... Best Musical - 1982

Nine (1982 Original Broadway Cast) Maury Yeston , Raul Julia , and Karen Akers Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Musical Theater | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music Traditional Vocal Pop | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Musicals | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Nine - The Musical (2003 Broadway Revival Cast) Kiss Of The Spider Woman: The Musical - Original Cast Recording (Original London Cast) Grand Hotel: The Musical - Broadway Cast Recording Grey Gardens - A New Musical (2006 Original Broadway Cast) Passion (1994 Original Broadway Cast) ASIN: B0000996FQ Release Date: 2003-05-13

Tracks:

1. Overture D'elle Donne/Spa Music/Not Since Chaplin
2. Guido's Song
3. The German's At The Spa
4. My Husband Makes Movies
5. A Call From The Vatican
6. Movie Themes
7. Only With You
8. Folies Bergeres
9. Nine
10. Ti Voglio Bene (Be Italian)
11. The Bells Of St. Sebastian

Tracks:

1. A Man Like You/Unusual Way/Duet
2. The Grand Canal
3. Simple
4. Be On Your Own
5. Not Since Chaplin (Reprise)/I Can't Make This Movie
6. Waltz From 'Nine'
7. Getting Tall
8. Nine/Long Ago (Reprise)
9. The Germans At The Spa - Maury Yeston
10. Unusual Way - Maury Yeston
11. The Grand Canal - Maury Yeston

Customer Reviews:

Viva Raul!!!!.......2007-02-15

Raul Julia ......the grand performer is the main reason to buy this CD ......i was never a fan of "Nine" but you can feel Raul, his magic in every song.....the songs might not stay with you forever , but Raul renditions will...Long live the great Raul Julia Arcelay..the Best of the Best!!!

9.......2006-09-23

"Nine" the brilliant Broadway musical directed by the brilliant Tommy Tune and starring the brilliant Raul Julia and with a brilliant scenic design of glaring white tile including the stage floor, and a brilliant costume design, except for the "Folies Bergere" number, every one was dressed in black, and a brilliant casting coup- 1 man surrounded by 21 women-and a couple of handfuls of brilliant musical numbers and by now you get the picture, the show was brilliant but it was its' brilliance that sabotaged the show and to boot the show was stubbornly not audience-friendly.

This led to moments of awe-inspiring highs surrounded by moments of boredom.

The first high comes about 15 minutes into the show by the entrance of flame-haired Anita Morris. Dressed head to toe in a lacy,skin-tight,see-through outfit that doesn't even try to hide her ample attributes-and she is making a phone call to her lover draped over a white tiled cube(bed) and she slithers, slides, stretches in positions not humanly possible, purring seductively to her boyfriend and having a real good time with herself in what is possibly the hottest and most erotic moment
I have ever witnessed on a Broadway stage and threatened to blister and melt the very tile she played on. Ironically the number was "A Call From the Vatican".

Another high moment came with Liliane Montevecchi as Guidos'(Julia) producer who bemoans the gloom of modern cinema and longs for the days of song, dance and color,,"Folies Bergere"

A pivotal moment in Guidos' life is when at the age of 9,he and a couple of his classmates visit a notorious whore who teaches the young boys how to "Be Italian" This incident so shames Guidos' mother she sends him away to a draconian Catholic school run by cruel nuns who happily beat the devil out of their students. This leads to the beautiful Gregorian Chant-like "The Bells of St Sebastian".

Guido begins his new film of Casanova "The Grand Canal" which is a 15 minute mini-opera.

I have to mention Karen Akers who plays Guidos' wife and I adore her voice which to me sounds like a mix of honey and melted caramels-just listen to her long ago section of "My Husband Makes Movies" and "Be On Your Own".

Raul Julia also has effective numbers "Guidos Song" "Only With You" and he sings the afore-mentioned spine-shivery "Bell of St Sebastian" and he duets with his 9-year old self on the finale "Nine" which ends the show on an effectivly quiet moment.

There are other fine moments to be found "Unusual Way" with Shelly Burch comes to mind.

This CD is a wonderful reminder of just how great a Broadway musical can be and although I enjoyed the entire show warts and all, I only wish the show had been more accessable to a wider audience so everyone could have witnessed the brilliance I had.

"Nine" is spectacular!.......2006-07-24

Based on Fellini's autobiographical film, "8 1\2", "Nine" opened in 1982 with a score by Maury Yeston and a book by Arthur Kopit. It starred Raul Julia, Karen Akers, Anita Morris, Liliane Montevecchi among others. Its direction was by Tommy Tune. All of these individuals (oh yes, Jonathan Tunick, the orchestrator) are responsible for this spectacular original cast album of the spectacular musical, "Nine.
Mr. Yeston has supplied as score that is filled with memorable songs that are tuneful and musically interesting. His lyrics are witty and original. Every song is outstanding. I must single out Ms. Akers' wonderful torch songs, "My Husband Makes Movies" and "Be On Your Own" as being the bests of the score. Ms. Akers performs them so well, which makes them even more enjoyable. I also cannot forget the exceptional "Folies Bergeres" sequence featuing Ms. Montevecchi in her element.
However, Mr. Julia and the other cast memembers give absolutely wonderful performances as well.
This is a nearly complete recording at something like 70 minutes. ("Nine" is not two and a half hours long for those of you who began to question the above statement.) As a bonus, it features Mr. Yeston performing some of his great songs.

...Their sound can last a hundred years..........2006-04-22

I have to admit that when I first listened to this CD I was not favorably impressed. None of the songs captured me instantly and many seemed rather jarring and confusing, particularly as I was not acquainted with the show and no synopis is included. I put it away only to recently pick it up with the guilty feeling that I had not given it any true consideration. This proved to be very true. After forcing myself to listen to it several times, I had to force myself to stop listening! There is something truly magical and mysterious about this show, a quality which sings through the stirring, passionate, indelibly European music and the moving, often bitingly clever and even provocative lyrics. Maury Yeston certainly knew what he was doing. He has created something which is very different from much of the broadway fare that came before it and was to follow it, something which is truly unique, but in such a subtle, elusive way that it is impossible to pinpoint wherein this individuality lies. This is certainly not one of the greatest musicals of all time. It is flawed; there is a disjointed quality to the songs some of which are decidely weaker than others. It is simply distintive.
This is must in great part be attributed to the performances. The cast of 'Nine' is superb and deserves to be remembered as it is. As Guido Contini, Raul Julia gives a performance which perfectly captures the internal struggles and outward charm of this character. While his singing does not match up to his acting,(his voice is rather grating, and occasionally he does things to the high notes that I would prefer not to discuss) he makes an admirable effort in each song and succeeds in most. He nails 'Guido's Song' in which the character's state of mind is so brilliantly outlined and has just the right bravado for 'The Grand Canal.'Nobody, even the worst singer in the world, could ruin the sweetly simple and utterly lovely 'Only With You', though I do not feel that he does justice to 'The Bells of St Sebastian' which is one of my favorite songs; I find the mix of styles and rythms incredably stirring.
It is the women who surround Julia who are responsible for the life and the fantasy that is so palpable on this recording. The women's overture is one of those inspired strokes of genius which serve to bring an entirely new sound to Broadway. As a whole they provide excellent support in 'The Grand Canal' and in the rollicking 'The Germans at the Spa' which is hysterical but also performs the task for which it was written, namely to create atmosphere, much better than many similar songs in other shows. Camille Saviola provides excellent vocals as mama Maddelena. As Yeston comments in the liner notes, hers is only one of many standout performances. This musical is wonderful in its ability to make stars of each of its soloists, each is brilliantly showcased in the respective song/s. Karen Akers(Luisa) may not have the strongest voice, but as another reviewer commented she has a worldly weariness which perfectly suits her character. Her two songs 'My Husband makes Movies'and 'Be on Your Own' are two of the most moving moments in 'Nine', the former raises so many questions about life and love while the latter is almost heartbreaking in its desparation..."go off and live your petty fictions full of blatant contradictions you can't see..." Anita Morris(Carla) does not have what could be described as an attractive voice, but she has just the right brash, steamy powerful belt for 'A Call from the Vatican'. Taina Elg(Guido's mother) and Shelly Burch(Claudia) both provide sweetly pretty renditions of 'Nine' and 'Unusual Way' respectively while Kathi Moss' voice soars in the wonderfully exciting 'Be Italian'. One of the weaker moments is the unconvincing 'Getting Tall'; Cameron Johann does not have the ability or is simply too young to save this song. But all this would still not be worthy of five stars, it is the true showstopper, the glorious 'Follies Bergeres', which catapults this show to the hights of my regard. Brilliantly concieved, it is brilliantly executed here by Julia and Stephanie Cotsirilos but particularly by the extraordinary Liliane Montevecchi. Never was there a performance which was more worthy of a Tony. She soars through this song both as an actress and a singer...and almost evokes Edith Piaf in some of those dizzying climaxes...I could go on raving for some time longer but this review has already become ridiculously long. The one true downside of this recording are Yeston's demo recordings of some of the songs which are quite simply ghastly. Talk about composers butchering their own material! In spite of this I heartily reccomend that any fan of musicals add this to their collection, would I really write such a long, pompous review if I didnt feel it was worth it?

Best Musical - 1982.......2005-06-29

The surprise winner of 1982's Best Musical Tony (beating the equally deserving "Dreamgirls) was "Nine", an intelligent production, with a beautiful score by Maury Yeston.

While arguments can be made about whether this original or the 2003 revival are better, I slightly prefer the revival, only because the orchestrations sound richer. The casts of both are terrific!

Best tracks include:

My Husband Makes Movies
A Call From The Vatican
Only With You
Folies Bergeres
The Bells Of St. Sebastian
Unusual Way
Simple
Be On Your Own
I Can't Make This Movie

Both versions are worthy purchases, but if you have to pick one, pick the revival (single disc, synopsis, lyrics).

Average customer rating: I was robbed kelly is great My soul that's an awful racket! pretty catchy song Better than better

Since U Been Gone Kelly Clarkson Manufacturer: Bmg Int'l ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Teen Pop | Pop | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music Broadway & Vocalists | Imports | Stores | Music Rock | Imports | Stores | Music Pop | Imports | Stores | Music Musicals | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Breakaway Because of You, Pt. 2 Behind These Hazel Eyes, Pt. 2 Walk Away Thankful ASIN: B0008GIXE6 Release Date: 2005-06-06

Tracks:

1. Since U Been Gone [Album Version]
2. Miss Independent [Aol Live Version]
3. Since U Been Gone [Jason Nevins Club Mixshow]
4. Since U Been Gone

Album Details

The American Idol Winner Continues Soaring with the Release of this Single from her Second Album, "Breakaway". Includes a Special Bonus Version of "Miss Independent" Recorded for the "Aol Sessions" in Concert Program as Well as a Jason Nevins Remix and the Enhanced Video of the Title Track.

Customer Reviews:

I was robbed.......2007-03-08

I paid almost full price for this CD and it had only 2 songs....DON'T BE FOOLED. SPEND YOUR MONEY ELSEWHERE.

kelly is great.......2006-11-05

kelly clarkson is our favorite singer and she never lets us down, this cd is great.

My soul that's an awful racket!.......2006-03-30

What a bunch of irratating noise this song is. The loud guitars and angry yelling wouldn't sound out of place on the latest Avril Lavigne CD. But that's how it goes in 2006. Musical talent has become extremely rare in this day and age. Nobody does anything that requires any musical talent what so ever. In order to have a hit, you have to "rock out" and "kick @ss" just like Avril Lavigne. Crank the volume up to 10, scream the lyrics, smash your guitar, and ROCK OUT!!! Music that sounds like music is "cheesy" and "manufactured". In order to be a hit, it must ROCK OUT! So keep screaming Kelly. Make the worst noise you possibly can, because that's what sells these days. ROCK ON!!!

pretty catchy song.......2006-03-19

there is something about Kelly Clarkson that makes me always take notice when she sings. she doesn't sound Novelty at all&has truly distance herself from American Idol. I like Her voice&this song is pretty Good&catchy. it's the kind of song that wouldn't be out of place from the Pat Benatar catelog at all.it works for Kelly. I like How She uses her voice.

Better than better.......2005-12-28

This cd rocks harder to anything than a regular cd would. Kelly Clarkson is not just talented but she is the best American idol person ever. I own all her cds and I listen so much you memorize the words. Go Kelly and I hope everyone like the cd

Average customer rating: simply great music Nice Nice, but can't beat deadringer Real Artsy, Man Can you say "classic?"

Since We Last Spoke Rjd2 Manufacturer: Definitive Jux ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Experimental Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Pop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Dead Ringer The Horror Magnificent City Instrumentals Preemptive Strike Magnificent City ASIN: B0001N6MMQ Release Date: 2004-05-18

Tracks:

1. Since We Last Spoke
2. Exotic Talk
3. Since '76
4. Ring Finger
5. Making Days Longer
6. Someone's Second Kiss
7. To All Of You
8. Iced Lightning
9. Clean Living
10. Intro
11. Through The Walls
12. One Day

Customer Reviews:

simply great music.......2006-10-27

this was my first RJD2 album and I loved it. RJ has a wonderful talent as a DJ to piece together various styles of music in a manner I've yet to hear from another DJ. RJ is a hip-hop DJ (you can find him paired up underground rapper Blueprint, to form the group Soul Position), but I wouldn't consider this to be instrumental hip-hop. This is just fresh sounding music and truely a great album. I actually prefer this to Deadringer, even though many would disagree with me.

Nice.......2006-05-04

Rjd2 is nice, but a number of his songs tend to follow a very similar run down chord progression, and there's the feeling that some of the songs didn't sound all that different in their original non-sampled form, less so on this album, more so on the previous. Though, they're good songs. If i were to rate them on their production/sampling originality, i'd have to go 3 stars, but i'm going to rate them on their good songness factor.

On a side note, at only two places this album finds Rjd2 experimenting with a sort of Cornelius sound, and it doesn't go all that well. But the rest of the album far covers for it in to making it appear charming, rather than not.

Nice, but can't beat deadringer.......2006-05-02

I have a lot of respect for RJD2, when i got his album Deadringer i couldn't stop listening to it daily. This release is also definitely worth buying, but not if you don't have Deadringer yet.

Real Artsy, Man.......2005-10-03

Are any of you old enough to wonder where all those really crappy, anonymous records that seemed so "progressive" at the time you bought them wound up after you traded them in to get money for new vinyl? It would appear that they found their way into Rjd2's record collection, where they serve as the raw material for this collage of amateaur-hour, mid-70's "progressive" guitar rock. No matter how good a turntablist you are (and R is somewhat above average) you can't get blood out of a stone--and practically everything sampled on this album qualifies as a real lump of coal. Sorry, son, but this kind of music was deservedly dismissed about 30 years ago and, unlike some great music of the time that was UNdeservedly relegated to obscurity and then resurrected by a new generation of discerning music lovers (the Dramatics, the Styistics, the Chi-Lites, the Delfonics, Caravan, Soft Machine, Jade Warrior, Captain Beefheart etc.), this treacle deserves to lie undisturbed in that dusty resting place where bad albums go to die. So much of modern retro seems to be based on the premise that some things were so ridiculously bad that, going roundabout on the uncool-cool continuum, they actually are incredibly cool (like Turquoise table-top rotary phones). I like colorful phones as much as the next person, but some things are just plain lousy. Like the music on this album. And making a collage out of it, no matter how skillfully put together, can't eliminate the fact that some music is so bad that it's actually...really bad. Two stars, then , for Rjd2's promise as a turntablist. By the way, the people my age (47) for whom I've played "Since" (who love DJ Krush, Cam, Coldcut and Ursula 1000, for example) consider this a joke, as if their kid got into the records that have migrated from the shelves to the attic, picked out the worst ones, and is playing them for all his friends and bragging about how "cool" Dad used to be. Thanks a lot, son.

Can you say "classic?".......2005-06-21

The term "classic" is thrown around far too much in the music industry, but this album is worthy of the title. This is great, uplifting music that fans of any genre can enjoy. Some of the real standout tracks are "Since We Last Spoke," "Exotic Talk," "1976," "Iced Lightning," and especially "Clean Living." There is only one song on this entire album that I skip. There's some really bad singer on "Making Days Longer," and it kind of ruins the song. This guy is an expert instrumentalist and DJ, and should be ranked among some of the greatest electronic musicians out there.

Average customer rating: Y'all are crazy! Liz Callaway Goes On... Liz Callaway SOARS! ....Love this album too! Unknown Talent Sings Unknown and Known Broadway Songs

The Story Goes On: Liz Callaway On & Off Broadway Manufacturer: Varese Sarabande ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Rodgers, Richard | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Sondheim, Stephen | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Musical Theater | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Traditional Vocal Pop | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music Traditional Pop | Oldies | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Anywhere I Wander - Liz Callaway Sings Frank Loesser The Beat Goes On Sibling Revelry Ann Hampton Callaway Bring Back Romance ASIN: B00005B176 Release Date: 2001-04-03

Tracks:

1. You There in the Back Row
2. I'm Gonna Wash That Man Right Outa My Hair
3. Since You Stayed Here
4. Knowing When to Leave/Promises Promises
5. Where Is Love? (with Billy Porter)
6. Meadowlark
7. Sleepy Man
8. Our Time (with Ann Hampton Callaway)
9. I Got the Sun in the Morning
10. Stop, Time
11. One Boy
12. Marry Me a Little
13. The Story Goes On
14. A Place Called Home

Amazon.com

Broadway veteran Liz Callaway (most famous for her five-year stint as Grizabella in Cats on Broadway in the late '90s) fills her second solo album with lesser-known tunes, a number of them covering moments in her career. Her lovely soprano can break your heart with the ballad "Since You Stayed Here" then thrill you with the showstopper "The Story Goes On" from Baby (which earned her a Tony nomination). The emotional heart of the album is "Meadowlark," Stephen Schwartz's wondrous tale of risk and heartbreak that proves a particularly glorious marriage with Callaway's voice. In a savvy bit of programming, that peak is followed by the deliciously langorous "Sleepy Man." Callaway's sister, jazz/cabaret singer Ann Hampton Callaway, makes a guest appearance in Stephen Sondheim's powerful "Our Time," a teaser of the sisters' live collaboration. Of Varese Sarabande's many albums spotlighting Broadway singers, The Story Goes On is one of their absolute best. --David Horiuchi

Customer Reviews:

Y'all are crazy!.......2006-11-03

The Billy Porter duet is one of the most unique and thrilling songs on the cd. What a fantastic re-invention of that song. And their voices by themselves and together are glorious. Its all personal taste and by no means is that the only good song. Its probably THE best solo cd by a broadway artist. Incredible!

Liz Callaway Goes On..........2006-05-02

Liz Callaway has one of the most enthralling voices around. Her voice is melodious and very soothing and especially shines in soft and subdued ballads. She doesn't have a big voice but she has an amazing range and sense of melody.

She opens the album with a strong rendition of "You There in the Back Row" a song I'm not familiar with but has grown to love. The next track "I'm Gonna Wash That Man Right Out of my Hair" lacks the spunk and bite that I think the song should have, and the arrangement felt out of place in the album.

She had a touching and moving rendition of `Since You Stayed Here". I'm not familiar with the musical Brownstone but this song made me want to check out the musical. It's about someone forced to become a stronger person after a breakup or some sort, that you wouldn't recognize it's the same person. I really love this song and Liz captured the strength as well as the sadness of the song.

Another standout is her now trademark version of "Meadowlark". The story of the meadowlark was a metaphor that convinced the character to the important decision she made in leaving her husband for another man. This is a really powerful song and truly Liz Callaway soared in this song. "Sleepy Man" was another notable track. This is probably the song that fits Liz Callaway's voice most perfectly. It was very sweet and really really soothing in the ears. This is one of my favorite tracks.

"Stop Time" is a song about the inexplicable combination of joy and sadness of watching your child grow up. It was a tender rendition that ends with a beautiful subdued last note. This woman knows how to end a song.

Once I got passed the cheesiness of the arrangement of "One Boy", I enjoyed it. It's old fashioned but it's still good. Liz then made an updated rendition of "The Story Goes On" from her show "Baby" This song was about a mother-to-be finally realizing the beauty and magic of carrying a child after she felt the child's first kick. I prefer the stronger arrangement of the song in this album compared to the Baby Cast Recording, but the innocence of that earlier rendition still resonates.

She ended the album with a beautiful rendition of "A Place Called Home". I first heard this song in one of Lea Salonga's concerts and I fell in love with this song. Her last note was very touching and melodiously and heartbreakingly romantic.

Grade= A

Liz Callaway SOARS!.......2005-06-27

Wow! I love this cd! I went to a camp in Decatur, Illinois called Showchoir Camps of America. One night, as our evening entertainment, she performed this entire album!! That afternoon Ms. Liz came for a question and answer session with Phil Reno. She is such a down to earth person and sooo very talented! At the concert, I started to cry! During one song, Ms. Liz forgot the words to a song ( actually, I forgot what the song was called!), so she just made up some words to it!! If you want a TRUELY talented performer, Liz Callaway is the one for you!

....Love this album too!.......2004-08-18

I love this album. There are a few songs I kinda skip, because it was just weird. That song being "I'm Gonna Wash That Man Right Out of my Hair", weird. I loved the duet "Where is Love" from the musical Oliver. "Stop,Time" from the musical BIG (grab your puffs!). I enjoyed the 50's sounding "One Boy!" from Bye,Bye Birdie. Liz has a wonderful range, and flattering childish tone to her voice, reaching notes that would take me years of training to ever reach again! She has complied all these exciting songs and ends the album with "A Place Called Home", from A Christmas Carol. I could never give her enough praise. If you like Strisand, and Sintra, you'll love her too! :-) Liz is always shinning when she sings! Enjoy!

Unknown Talent Sings Unknown and Known Broadway Songs.......2003-06-10

... I thought I recognized the voice but I couldn't quite place it. I finally realized that she was the singing voice of Anastacia in the animated movie. Meg Ryan was the speaking voice. Liz Callaway has one of the clearest voices I have ever heard and also a very strong voice. I love her rendition of Knowing When to Leave/Promises, Promises by Burt Bacharach and Hal David. Great arrangements. Dionne Warwick, who I am also a fan of covered Promises, and the Carpenters sang a version of Knowing When to Leave. I'm also a Carpenters' fan. On this album all the songs are Broadway. Many I hadn't heard before but love now due to Liz. The first song, You There in the Backrow is a tribute to fans of shows. "Watch me sing my song for you" the words go. Liz makes you want to jump to your feet. Liz does a rendition of I' Gonna Wash that Man Right Out of My Hair from South Pacific, rock version. I can't say that's my favorite, but favorite to one of my friends. Since You Stayed Here, another unknown song to me, is quiet and hauntingly beautiful. Bette Midler does a version of this I think on her CD with From a Distance. She sings a duet with her sister, Ann Hampton Callaway who sings on Sibling Revelry with Liz. Ann wrote and sang the theme from The Nanny. The song Liz and Callaway and here sister does is Our Time. It's also on Sibling Revelry. Great duet. One of my favorites on the CD is Marry Me a Little by Stephen Sondheim. The words are a plea to marry me, a little. The song is an almost a desperate plea to marry me but you don't have to make promises you don't want to, an open marriage? Make a few demands a few that I'm able to fulfill. She sings I'm ready. We won't have to give up a thing, we'll stay who we are the words say. Someone I'm Ready. I would give this song 5 stars on its own. It makes me cry because she sounds like she will settle but at the same time she wants the love fully. The arrngements on this album are unique. She sings I've Got the Sun in the Morning from Annie Get Your Gun jazzy. Most of the other songs on the album are not known by most people. I can only say that Liz makes you want to see these shows and she pulls you in. I think I've become her biggest fan. I'm a singer too. I could see myself singing with her. I have her The Beat Goes On album too with sixties hits. I hope that people will get to know her because if you haven't heard this or her voice, you are going to be deprived of a remarkale clear strong voice. Buy this. I promise you won't be sorry! One more addition, Meadowlark. Spectacular! The story tells of someone hesitating because the time wasn't right and she learns from the story to live your life, climb every mtn.

Average customer rating: The definitive album of the 00s Amazing Absolute joy Already one of my all-time favorites... A Modern Classic

Since I Left You The Avalanches Manufacturer: Elektra / Wea ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Alternative Dance | Alternative Styles | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Turntablists | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Big Beat | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Australia & New Zealand | International | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Fragments of Freedom LCD Soundsystem Moon Safari The Audience's Listening Dummy ASIN: B00005QC5J Release Date: 2001-11-06

Tracks:

1. Since I Left You
2. Stay Another Season
3. Radio
4. Two Hearts In 3/4 Time
5. Avalanche Rock
6. Flight Tonight
7. Close To You
8. Diners Only
9. A Different Feeling
10. Electricity
11. Tonight
12. Pablo's Cruise
13. Frontier Psychiatrist
14. Etoh
15. Summer Crane
16. Little Journey
17. Live At Dominoes
18. Extra Kings

Amazon.com

The Avalanches are a much-feted six-man crew of sample addicts from Australia whose debut album, Since I Left You, is a bargain-bin vinyl throwback to the Daisy Age. This album is constructed like a mix tape and calculated to tweak the dance floor. Snatches of familiar rhythms bubble up throughout, giving the record a comfortable lived-in feel but also betraying the fact that the group hasn't dug very far through the crates to source their raw material. There's little doubt that this kind of sample reconstruction has become standard fare for retrogressive adolescents with precious little musical flair and a mania for collecting records. The Avalanches get full marks for their seamless mixing skills, but otherwise it all feels way too tidy, bristling with its own inventiveness when it should be striving for something that transcends its influences. --Chris Campion

Customer Reviews:

The definitive album of the 00s.......2007-05-26

I will always contend that this album is the definitive one of the 00s. While sampling is nothing new in popular music, the extent of its role within this work is unprecedented, and has yet to be matched in nearly 7 years. Ever the post-modern work, "Since I Left You" offers the sample as the basic unit of sound, where previously existing music becomes the atom from which new sounds are formed. Unlike other uses of sampling, where the intent is to strike a chord of nostalgia within the listener that helps make explicit the connection between the old and the new, the Avalanches provide such dense layering that the original context of the sample is scarcely recognizable.

Amazing.......2006-03-30

This album is refreshing, creative and moving, attributes that are rare in music these days. Everyone loves a catchy tune, and the Avalanches find a new way to entice you and move you in a new way. When I first heard this album I knew I wanted to hear it again. It is something you can listen to anywhere with anyone for any type of mood. This album definately has sentimental value to me because it brings back memories of a good period in my life, but that's not the only reason why it holds so much value. The music itself has the ability to create a mystical and mysterious vibe.
Frontier Pyschiatrist and Since I Left You are my favorites. Bound to make you move or chill you out, whatever you're feeling.

Absolute joy.......2006-02-04

Many people have speculated and argued about what kind of music is played on Hell's loudspeakers. I don't know the answer to that question, but I guarantee you Since I Left You is on a 24-hour loop in Heaven. This album is amazingly, unbelievably, mind-blowingly great. It is total and utter joy and freedom from beginning to end. Some people will tell you that this and that song are good, and this and that song aren't as good, and blah blah blah. They are wrong. Some parts of it may take a while to grow on you, but if you have any kind of soul it will happen. Besides, at its core it's not a bunch of different songs released on one CD, the way most albums are. It's one work and deserves, more than any other album I've ever heard, to be treated and listened to as such. It's well worth it.

This is undoubtedly the greatest album ever created.

Already one of my all-time favorites..........2005-07-02

This music is so refreshing. I agree with some of the other entries, you definately need to listen to it a few times before you make any decisions about it. Pay close attention to tracks 1, 2, 9, 10, and 14. In fact, my advice would be to play these first until you fall in love with them, then move on to the other tracks. They are definately funky. I'm always grooving my head or tapping my foot to this music, which is uncommon for me.
Anyway, highly recomended. If you have eclectic taste in music this is one you have to have.

A Modern Classic.......2005-06-10

A few months ago, my roommate let me borrow this CD, which I automatically ripped and gave back to him. I didn't really listen to it until he had urged me enough times that it got on my nerves...after listening to the first song, I was unimpressed. I had already heard the Go! Team and figured that they did what the Avalanches do, only more to my liking. Every time he asked me what I thought of it, I would get extremely annoyed and would feel less like listening to it. Then one day we got into an arguement about the album where I explained my reasons for not thinking it was anything special. It got heated and I eventually kicked him out of my room. I started to feel quite stupid about this. So I decided to listen to the whole album again. That was about two months ago. I have listened to this CD several times a day ever since. It is one of my favorite albums ever! Absolutely brilliantly constructed. I even began searching out all the samples that they used...I haven't found many, mostly just the ones that are listed in the album cover. A few weeks ago I went out and bought it, because it seriously is one of the best albums I have ever heard. I talk to pretty much every one I meet about how great this record is. Not everyone agrees with me...perhaps they too will come around like I did. Viva Los Avalanches! Actually, I'm a little nervous about their first album. They perfected what they do on this album (their debut) as far as I can tell, but perhaps they have more that they haven't shown us yet. BUY IT BUY IT BUY IT!

Average customer rating: Stellar Metal CD Great album with some great hard/soft change ups, but basically they present much of what has already been done... Melodic Death Metal...with a bit more melody Simply Amazing A work of melancholy art.

Since the Day It All Came Down Insomnium Manufacturer: Candlelight ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Finland | Scandinavia | Europe | International | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music General | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: In The Halls Of Awaiting Above the Weeping World Wintersun Black Waltz Swamplord ASIN: B0001VQVKG Release Date: 2004-05-04

Tracks:

1. Nocturne
2. Day It All Came Down
3. Daughter of the Moon
4. Moment of Reckoning
5. Bereavement
6. Under the Plaintive Sky
7. Resonance
8. Death Walked the Earth
9. Disengagement
10. Closing Words
11. Song of the Forlorn Son

Customer Reviews:

Stellar Metal CD.......2006-12-16

I picked this up from its existence on many a metalhead's suggested list here on Amazon, and I'm very happy I did. My best comparison is Opeth, but with much more tolerable vocals... I don't like deep bellows, and the vocalist here tends to stay in the midrange, not quite like At the Gates, but in a nice, happy medium. The album is very atmospheric from beginning to end, and draws you in in the same way early Opeth did. It changes pace between heavy riffing with some acoustic thrown in... it's a very aurally interesting album to listen to again and again. The musicianship is excellent, but unlike most prog rockers, they maintain emotion for sake of song structure.

Great album with some great hard/soft change ups, but basically they present much of what has already been done..........2006-09-28

When I first heard about Insomnium, I heard praise of how they balance hard and soft, mostly heavy Melodic Death Metal tunes with soft acoustic and mellow guitar breakdowns in the middle of their songs. When I heard "Since it all came down", I was impressed and joyed to hear another band utilize the hard/soft dynamic. It is a breath of fresh air in the very stale genre of Metal(of all forms). Bands like Opeth, Obsidian, meshuggah and a handful of others are the only ones keeping it alive with creative forms of musical art.
But the thing that annoyed me right off the bat with "Since it all came down", and the overall style of Insomnium, is their melodic Death fasination. I can only stand traditional melodic death for so long, until I get utterly annoyed. Sure, Opeth started off with a take on the traditional melodic death that bands like In Flames, At the Gates and Arch Enemy helped create, but they quickly branched out and away from that style, probably because they knew that later on everyone and their mother would adopt that style and try to sell records with it. The problem is, that the melodic death style is REALLY cheesy and REALLY overdone, even Soilwork and a host of other bands have jumped onto the bandwagon of Melodic Death. Everyone wants to cash in on this horrible fad. In my opinion, the melodic death aspect is too predictable, often with the same thrashy and predictable beats and guitar riffs and the same boring vocals and lyrics.
Insomnium do bring some great stuff to the table in the form of guitar riffs, and the occasional different drum beat. But they are by no means re-inventing or creating something new. I would say that their greatest achievement is the incorporation of soft passages and acoustical breakdowns in their songs. But even then those get predictable and are pretty much placed in the exact same spots in each song. That is not to say that the acoustical parts and breakdowns are not nice, they are in fact awesome and add a level of depth that many-a-modern metal band is severely lacking in our "get rich quick" times.
While not nearly achieving the amazing dynamics and epic construction of songs such as the likes of Opeth, they do create some decent pieces of music that are enjoyable. My only problem with Insomnium is their heavy reliance on Melodic Death Metal. Some say that they are one of the only bands keeping the genre alive. Nostalgia is great, but that doesn't mean we should keep genres alive simply because they had a hey day. I feel the same way about modern bands playing "classic" rock sounding material. Its been done too much and frankly just boring. Melodic Death had its time in the 90's, and I don't think hanging onto the dying genre is all that good. Sure, bands like In Flames and Soilwork(to name a few) have changed styles to appeal to a wider audience, but at least they are trying something new. Look at Opeth, they changed, but they still make amazing music that does not fit into any genre.
I noticed that one reviewer stated that Insomnium are the closest thing to sounding like Opeth. He is right, in that they use hard and soft melodies in the same song, like Opeth does. But one thing that Insomnium doesn't do all that well is master the dynamics of the transitions from hard to soft. The coupled with their use of horrid melodic guitar riffs and repetitive drum beats renders this album way under perfection.

Melodic Death Metal...with a bit more melody.......2006-08-05

I love all types of metal. Death metal, black metal, metalcore, power metal, thrash metal, you name it. But I've started sniffing out the more obscure sub-genres such as melodic death metal and black death metal. Insomnium was my big thrust into melodic death metal and I'm absolutely loving it.

This CD had a bit more melody than I was expecting, but after listening to it a couple times, I realize they did an excellent job. I thought it would be tough for me to get away from the pure death/thrash metal that I've been listening to (Arsis, At The Gates, Demiricous), but the constant pounding of the drums and guitars keeps your head banging and the melodies in between keep your toes tapping. Some of the songs seem to have a sort of break in the middle of the song with a melodic breakdown of soft drums and soothing guitar work, then the pounding starts again and doesn't let up until the end.

The beginning of this CD ("Nocturne" leading into "The Day It All Came Down") gave me chills because the opening gets you in a sort of daze and relaxes you a bit, then "The Day It All Came Down" starts with a constant guitar with steady drums and eventually leads to the scream of frontman Niilo Sevänen. Once you reach this point, the CD doesn't let go until the end.

Another stand out track is "Daughter of The Moon". While listening to this track, I get a mixed feeling of an almost "downer" song but with brutal pounding of guitars. This creates a strange mix of positive and negative energies which makes for a different feeling in anyone who listens to it.

This CD is difficult to explain because you really have to feel it. It's not one that you just pop in and bang your head (nothing wrong with that though) but brings out all different emotions. Just think of sadness, anger, depression, passion, hope, and love rolled into one big ball of musical goodness.

Don't be scared of the "melody" part, because I've noticed all that does is relax you so it can slap you in the face with thick riffs and relentless drums. If you're into melodic death metal (or are interested in it), buy this CD. I will be watching these guys in the future and cannot wait to see what else they produce.

Simply Amazing.......2006-05-16

Every aspect of this band is amazing. The members are extremely talented. Guitar's can be pulling off a brutal riff at one point and then emotionally soothing within seconds.. The vocals match the music perfectly. The drummer rolls it great and keeps the tempo going perfectly. This is the best band that I have heard in the melodic death scene for quite some time. This band is meant for people who enjoy Opeth, Dark Tranquility, Arsis, or Vintersorg.

A work of melancholy art........2006-04-17

Insomnium are an interesting band. They are undeniably melodic death metal, but they ultimately seem more comparable to Opeth than anybody. "Since The Day It All Came Down" is an epic mixture of powerful, emotive riffs, accompanied by frequent haunting acoustic interludes. The album's lyrical content is based loosely around a story of a boy who has lost his mother to the reaper, and about him dealing with his pain. The purpose of the instrumental work here is to express that pain. The music on offer here isn't the most technical in the world, so it largely relies on its crushing - yet melodic - power to impress us. It must be said that this is managed remarkably well. The guitars here are rolling walls of melancholic sound, portraying a definite doom metal influence in places. Occassionally we're treated to a faster burst, always exhilirating considering the drummer's commendable cotrol of the double bass peddle. Special regards to the vocalicst, Niilo Sevansen, as well, 'cause as a death metal vocalist he ranks up there with Mikael Akerfeldt as one of the best. It isn't perfect - the absence of guitar solos is notable and some of the acoustic interludes can tend to drag on, somewhat similarly to Opeth's "Ghost Reveries". However "Since The Day..." undobtedly achieves what it set out to do, and then some. Here's regards to some of Finland's finest.

Music Album:

1. Singing in the Spirit Home
2. Sings the Ballads of the True West [Original recording remastered]
3. Snowfalls: Solo Guitar
4. Sorry Is As Sorry Does [Live]
5. Steers and Stripes
6. Such & Such
7. The Best of Cris Williamson
8. The Best of Doug Sahm & The Sir Douglas Quintet 1968-1975
9. The Best Of Stonewall Jackson
10. The Color of Dusk

Music Album