Stanley Blues

Amazon.com
While his dad, bluegrass legend Ralph Stanley, is famous for his rustic, piercing mountain tenor, Ralph II, a longtime singer-guitarist in his father's Clinch Mountain Boys, possesses a rich, smooth voice that's far more reminiscent of his dad's former singing partners, Carter Stanley and Keith Whitley. Ralph II's third solo album is a low-key, soulful 12-song collection on which he's joined by members of the Clinch Mountain Boys. With John Rigsby shadowing him with hand-in-glove tenor accompaniment (and the elder Stanley joining him on a pair of cuts), the younger Stanley serves up moving renditions of everything from old Stanley Brothers favorites ("We'll Be Sweethearts in Heaven") and country standards (Mel Tillis's "Ruby, Don't Take Your Love to Town") to a heartfelt coal miner's ballad ("Daddy's Dinner Bucket") and a gospel ("Four Horsemen"). The Ralph II-penned title tune is a Stanley family anthem that sums up life on the road. --Bob Allen

Stanley Blues,Ralph Stanley II,Rebel Records,Bluegrass,Blues Music,Contemporary Bluegrass,Country,Pop

Average customer rating: The Best Compilation of the Man on 2 Discs! Great Sound Quality Too! Relaxing and Enticing to the Ear A little something for everybody

The Ultimate Guitar Collection Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Trios | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by J.S. Bach | Bach, Johann Sebastian | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Elgar | Elgar, Sir Edward | ( E ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Falla | Falla, Manuel de | ( F ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Fauré, Gabriel | ( F ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Handel | Handel, George Frideric | ( H ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Morricone, Ennio | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Rota, Nino | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Satie | Satie, Erik | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Domenico Scarlatti | Scarlatti, Domenico | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Tarrega | Tarrega, Francisco | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Vivaldi | Vivaldi, Antonio | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Sonatinas | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Trio Sonatas | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Film Scores | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | 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 General | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Guitar | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Lute | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Violin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Williams, John [guitar] | ( W ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Choruses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Classical Instrumental Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Classic Williams: Romance of the Guitar The Guitarist El Diablo Suelto - Guitar Music of Venezuela Spanish Guitar Music Essential Guitar: 33 Guitar Masterpieces ASIN: B0007TFH52 Release Date: 2005-03-29

Tracks:

1. Suite Espanola, Op.47: Asturias (Leyenda)
2. Cavatina From The Deer Hunter
3. Lute Suite No.4 In E Major, BWV 1006a: Prelude
4. Triangular Situations
5. Recuerdos De La Alhambra
6. Romance
7. Dance From La Vida Breve
8. Sonata In E Major, K 380
9. Como Llora Una Estrella (Valse-Cancion)
10. The Mission
11. El Colibri
12. Gymnopedie No.3
13. Courante
14. La Catedral
15. El Condor Pasa
16. Salut D'Amour
17. Malinke Guitars
18. Concerto For Lute (Guitar), Two Violins (Strings) And Basso Continuo In D Major, R.93: I. Allegro Giusto
19. The Entertainer

Tracks:

1. Concierto De Aranjuez: II. Adagio
2. El Diablo Suelto (Valse)
3. Preludio En Do Menor (In C Minor)
4. Suite Espanola, Op.47: Sevilla (Sevillanas)
5. Gnossienne No.1
6. Cueca
7. Schindler's List
8. Lute Suite No.4 In E Major, BWV 1006a: Gavotte
9. Nkosi Sikelel'i Afrika
10. Pavane
11. Trio For Violin, Lute (Guitar) And Basso Continuo In C Major, R.82: III. Allegro
12. Sunburst
13. The Godfather
14. Scherzino Mexicano
15. Aeolian Suite For Guitar And Small Orchestra: I. Aeolian Chant
16. 3 Blues For Classic Guitar: Spanish Guitar Blues
17. 3 Blues For Classic Guitar: Blues For Felix
18. 3 Blues For Classic Guitar: Swing 59
19. The Black Decameron: The Flight Of The Lovers Through The Valley Of The Echoes
20. Una Limosna Por El Amor De Dios
21. Saltarello
22. 12 Piezas Caracteristicas, Op.92: No.12 Torre Bermeja (Serenato)

Customer Reviews:

The Best Compilation of the Man on 2 Discs! Great Sound Quality Too!.......2006-04-21

The title very aptly describes this great classical guitar album showcasing some of the best ever works of John Williams on 2 discs. The track selections are great as they span the centuries from the Baroque greats of Bach and Vivaldi to the modern day composers such as Stanley Myers and York. John even flirts with Blues and Jazz-style pieces and they actually sound very good. In addition, they did a much better mastering job on this version than on the single disc, "Classic John Williams" album that was released a few years earlier and so the sound quality is much better. John Williams' playing is without peer and his technique is superior to the vast majority of the exponents of classical guitar that are out there. I've heard recordings of many others who have tried to play "Cavatina" for example and they have never come close to the natural and flowing version that John plays. If you are a fan of this type of music or of John Williams' work, this is the best compilation that you can get that's out there. Highly recommended!

Relaxing and Enticing to the Ear.......2006-01-26

The first song on this set is why I bought the whole album. It blows you away listening to the precise picking and the gorgeous way it is done. Not robotic like some freaks out there. This is true beautiful music. Runs together like a long summer drive in the country. It is just a perfect album to listen to at home or on the go.

A little something for everybody.......2005-06-15

First, this is gorgeous guitar playing by someone who knows what he's doing. John Williams (not to be confused by the film score composer of the same name) is a superb classical guitarist. Many of these pieces are *classical* in nature, while a few are more *popular*. Many are solo, the rest in small chamber groups. Some will get your toes tapping, some will start you daydreaming, and some will make you cry with their beauty. All of it is magnificent.

Average customer rating: John Badorf Brings Us Home Again Home Again: Every Song Is Worth It Whoa!!! Best music by John Batdorf ever Welcome back, Batdorf & Rodney

John Batdorf_Home Again John Batdorf Manufacturer: BatMac Music ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Acoustic Blues | Blues | Styles | Music Similar Items: All Wood and Stones Batdorf and Rodney / Live at McCabes 1975 Batdorf & Rodney Off the Shelf Life Is You ASIN: B000MI2IIM

Product Description

Listening to Home Again is like finding a lost buried musical treasure. This CD has all the familiarity of arguably the greatest musical era, the late 60s and early 70's but with fresh new original songs that brings it all to the present. Home Again is a must have CD for all music lovers!

Customer Reviews:

John Badorf Brings Us Home Again.......2007-04-13

This is a really a terrific CD from John Batdorf. It's deep, features two of his most memorable B & R songs in "Home Again" and "Ain't It Like Home" and just resonates with the beauty and the magic he first shared with us over 30 years ago. And, after 30+ years of waiting, we had the great pleasure of seeing him in Kent, Ohio for a solo show. He was superb. This CD is really the essence of what make John so much fun to listen to and take in. The acoustic guitar is memorable and distinctive. His voice is clear, harmonies are beautiful, and the lyrics are either loving or biting, depending on what the song's message is. And when I say "deep", the songs are strong throughout. Few throw-aways here, and there shouldn't be, because Mr. Batdorf hasn't been nearly as consistent with his CD releases as we'd like him to be. Know that his Batdorf and McLean CDs are excellent, but this one is really a return to the feel of Batdorf & Rodney, while giving us the full measure of just what a strong and gifted artist John is. Thanks, John, for reminding us how great it is to hear your brand of acoustic folk or acoustic rock, depending on your mood. Now, if you could just see your way to give us a remake of "Can You See Him," I could go to heaven fulfilled.

Home Again: Every Song Is Worth It.......2007-03-23

This is one of the best, most cohesive albums I've heard in a long time. The lyrics and melodies are equally strong, and I was pleased to see that it held up to the praise I'd heard. The acoustic introduction to "Home Again" is a wonderful beginning, and the clarity on John's vocal here is admirable. It makes the song believable. It's not often that one feels this way in life, and it's great to hear it expressed in song. My favorite line from "Home Again" is: "Now I'm sought instead of chasing."

"Me and You" is a nice nod to groups like Buffalo Springfield from the mid-'60s. I still can't get over how much John sounds like Graham Nash. I see a lot of CSN parallels in this album.

"I Don't Always Win" has incredible lyrics that keep a balance between honesty and hope. I think of those I know who have dealt with addiction, and in my opinion, John captured this feeling quite well.

The simple acoustic feel of "Ain't It Like Home" is something I don't hear very often anymore, and it's a brilliant vocal and a nice precursor to "Home Again" (even if the other was written first). "Ain't It Like Home" is still looking for home, and the latter has found it.

I absolutely love the lyrics to "Solitude". There are people who constantly miss chances, overwhelmed by stimuli and the demands placed upon them. And sometimes they have a lot of trouble escaping that mindset, even though they wish they could do something about it.

"I Never Wanted" is another one of my favorites. This is a theme often seen in life, but not usually expressed this well in song. There are more striking lyrics here: "I said I never wanted love / But love is the only thing I need."

For someone who didn't want to write an angry song, John and Michael McLean did a fantastic job. The guitar on the chorus of "Can't Be Trusted" especially stands out.

Another favorite of mine is "Something is Slipping Away". I'm fonder of earlier decades than my own, and there's another great lyric here: "And the greatest prize before our eyes / Is given to those who can take without having to give." It's ironic but true. This song has a wonderful melody, too.

"One Night Stands" is really a very clever lyric, and I have to agree with Michael McLean: this *is* the one that gets stuck in my head the most. I'd love to hear this live; I'll bet it draws a real crowd response.

"Where Are You Now?" reminds me a little of the Blue Jays' (Justin Hayward/John Lodge) "Who Are You Now" because they touch on the same theme. Since much of "Home Again" looks back at the past, it makes sense to close with this one.

What really struck me about this album is that I enjoy every single song on it. Not one is filler. I haven't heard all of John's music yet, but I'd have to say that this is my favorite so far.

Whoa!!!.......2007-02-15

When I got this a couple weeks ago I immediately listened to it twice--it's that good. I've been a fan since the early '70s and used to play some B&R songs. The song writing is strong. The melodies are carefully worked out. This is a beautiful album. If you're in any way familiar with Batdorf songs or Batdorf and Rodney albums, you'll love this stuff. This record is a consistent pleasure to listen to. A couple old songs get a new treatment and sound thoroughly fresh. Don't miss this one.

Best music by John Batdorf ever.......2007-02-12

Home Again by John Batdorf is by far the best music John has put out solo or with Batdorf & Rodney. The remake of Home Again as the title song will knock your socks off. And it was nice to hear Mark Rodney play on the song too, I didn't think they could remake the song better but John & Mark blew the old version away and I did not think that was possible. The whole CD is packed with great songs, This is John's best work ever and once you listen to it you will not put it away. It's been in my car CD player since I bought it and still enjoying it now. John is touring right now if you get the chance to see him live don't pass it up you will regret it later.

Welcome back, Batdorf & Rodney.......2007-02-07

This is the first full-length solo album from John Batdorf, one half of the 70's folk-rock duo Batdorf & Rodney and a member of Silver. He has been making great music all throught the years, but this is by far his best. Pleasand surprise is the appearence of Mark Rodney on two songs, for the first time in 30 years since B&R called it quits. Both of these songs (Home Again and Where Are You Now) are re-recordings of old B&R songs but they are a lot better. Just listen to the firing acoustic groove of Home Again! Amazing these guys out-shined themselves after such a long hiatus.

These B&R songs are naturally the high points of the album but the rest (including another old B&R song, Ain't It like Home) is just as good and enjoyable acoustic music. You won't be disappointed.

Average customer rating: Men of Constant Sorrow, Remastered

Selected Sides 1947-1953: The Very Best of Bluegrass Flatt & Scruggs , and Stanley Brothers Manufacturer: Jsp Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Blues | Styles | Music Traditional Blues | Blues | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music Traditional Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music Traditional | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music Bluegrass | Country | Box Sets | Stores | Music Similar Items: All the Classic Releases 1937-1949 The Carter Family: 1927-1934 Bluegrass Early Cuts 1931-1953: Classic Recordings Remastered Classic Cuts: 1933-1941 Queen of the Delta Blues, Vol. 2 ASIN: B0001AV55S Release Date: 2004-03-30

Tracks:

1. Molly And Tenbrooks - The Stanley Brothers
2. The Rambler's Blues - The Stanley Brothers
3. Mother No Longer Awaits For Me At Home - The Stanley Brothers
4. The Girl Behind The Bar - The Stanley Brothers
5. Little Maggie - The Stanley Brothers
6. The Little Glass Of Wine - The Stanley Brothers
7. Our Darling's Gone - The Stanley Brothers
8. The Jealous Lover - The Stanley Brothers
9. Death Is Only A Dream - The Stanley Brothers
10. I Can Tell You The Time - The Stanley Brothers
11. A Vision Of Mother - The Stanley Brothers
12. The White Dove - The Stanley Brothers
13. Gathering Flowers For The Master's Bouquet - The Stanley Brothers
14. The Angels Are Singin (In Heaven Tonight) - The Stanley Brothers
15. It's Never Too Late - The Stanley Brothers
16. Have You Someone (In Heaven Awaiting) - The Stanley Brothers
17. Little Glass Of Wine - The Stanley Brothers
18. Let Me Be Your Friend - The Stanley Brothers
19. We'll Be Sweethearts In Heaven - The Stanley Brothers
20. I Love No One But You - The Stanley Brothers
21. Too Late To Cry - The Stanley Brothers

Tracks:

1. The Old Home - The Stanley Brothers
2. The Drunkard's Hell - The Stanley Brothers
3. The Fields Have Turned Brown - The Stanley Brothers
4. Hey! Hey! Hey! - The Stanley Brothers
5. The Lonesome River - The Stanley Brothers
6. I'm A Man Of Constant Sorrow - The Stanley Brothers
7. Pretty Polly - The Stanley Brothers
8. Sweetest Love - The Stanley Brothers
9. The Wandering Boy - The Stanley Brothers
10. Little Glass Of Wine - The Stanley Brothers
11. Little Birdie - The Stanley Brothers
12. Are You Just Waiting For Me - The Stanley Brothers
13. Little Girl And The Dreadful Snake - The Stanley Brothers
14. (Say) Won't You Be Mine - The Stanley Brothers
15. This Weary Heart You Stole Away (Wake Up Sweetheart) - The Stanley Brothers
16. I'm Lonesome Without You - The Stanley Brothers
17. Our Last Goodbye - The Stanley Brothers
18. Poison Lies - The Stanley Brothers
19. Dickson County Breakdown - The Stanley Brothers
20. I Long To See The Old Folks - The Stanley Brothers
21. A Voice From On High - The Stanley Brothers

Tracks:

1. God Loves His Children - Earl Scruggs
2. I'm Going To Make Heaven My Home - Earl Scruggs
3. We'll Meet Again Sweetheart - Earl Scruggs
4. My Cabin In Caroline - Earl Scruggs
5. Baby Blue Eyes - Earl Scruggs
6. Bouquet In Heaven - Earl Scruggs
7. Down The Road - Earl Scruggs
8. Why Don't You Tell Me So? - Earl Scruggs
9. I'll Never Shed Another Tear - Earl Scruggs
10. No Mother Or Dad - Earl Scruggs
11. Is It Too Late Now? - Earl Scruggs
12. foggy Mountain Breakdown - Earl Scruggs
13. I'll Be Going To Heaven Sometime - Earl Scruggs
14. So Happy I'll Be - Earl Scruggs
15. My Little Girl In Tennessee - Earl Scruggs
16. I'll Never Love Another - Earl Scruggs
17. Doin' My Time - Earl Scruggs
18. Pike County Breakdown - Earl Scruggs
19. Cora Is Gone - Earl Scruggs
20. Preachin', Prayin', Singin' - Earl Scruggs
21. Pain In My Heart - Earl Scruggs
22. Roll In My Sweet Baby's Arms - Earl Scruggs
23. Back To The Cross - Earl Scruggs
24. Farewell Blues - Earl Scruggs
25. Old Salty Dog Blues - Earl Scruggs
26. Take Me In A Lifeboat - Earl Scruggs
27. Will The Roses Bloom (Where She Lies Sleeping) - Earl Scruggs
28. I'll Just Pretend - Earl Scruggs

Tracks:

1. Coming Back Darling - Earl Scruggs
2. I'm Head Over Heels In Love - Earl Scruggs
3. I'm Waiting To Hear You Call Me Darling - Earl Scruggs
4. The Old Home Town - Earl Scruggs
5. I'll Stay Around - Earl Scruggs
6. We Can't Be Darlings Anymore - Earl Scruggs
7. Jimmie Brown The Newsboy - Earl Scruggs
8. Somehow Tonight - Earl Scruggs
9. Don't Get Above Your Raising - Earl Scruggs
10. I'm Working On A Road - Earl Scruggs
11. He Took Your Place - Earl Scruggs
12. I've Lost You - Earl Scruggs
13. Tis Sweet To Be Remembered - Earl Scruggs
14. I'm Gonna Settle Down - Earl Scruggs
15. Earl's Breakdown (Instrumental) - Earl Scruggs
16. I'm Lonesome And Blue - Earl Scruggs
17. Over The Hills To The Poorhouse - Earl Scruggs
18. My Darling's Last Goodbye - Earl Scruggs
19. Get In Line Brothers - Earl Scruggs
20. Brother, I'm Getting Ready To Go - Earl Scruggs
21. Why Did You Wander? - Earl Scruggs
22. Flint Hill Special (Instrumental) - Earl Scruggs
23. Thinking About You - Earl Scruggs
24. If I Should Wander Back To You - Earl Scruggs

Customer Reviews:

Men of Constant Sorrow, Remastered.......2004-10-21

Pros:
* 94 sides for less than $30
* A thorough compilation of the early work from two legendary bluegrass ensembles
* Quality remastering leaves these fifty year-old sides sounding clean
* Some of the best musicianship, arrangements, and singing you are going to hear
* Disc A of the Stanleys includes the brothers first recordings, 10 sides cut for the Rich R-Tone label not found on the Complete Columbia Recordings or Bear Family's 1949-1952
* Carter Stanley's warm croon and Ralph Stanley's high, lonesome wail comprise the best two-part harmonies I've heard
* "Foggy Mountain Breakdown" -- the song that inspired millions of people to become incredibly frustrated by the banjo

Cons:
* Those who prefer more surface noise and a richer sound may dislike the intense remastering on this reissue
* Minimal packing and notes

Bottom line: Excellent value

Average customer rating: + 1/2 stars.....Bluegrass Is Alive And Thriving In Dreamland with Dolly, Iris, Melba, Chely, Lucinda, et al Traditional Bluegrass Ralphs Band in Rare Form This hits the Spot!

Clinch Mountain Sweethearts Ralph Stanley & Friends Manufacturer: Rebel Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Contemporary Blues | Blues | Styles | Music General | Blues | Styles | Music Traditional Blues | Blues | Styles | Music General | Country | Styles | Music General | Traditional Country | Country | Styles | Music General | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music Contemporary | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music Traditional | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music Country Gospel | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music Gospel | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music General | Country | Indie Music | Stores | Music Bluegrass | Country | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Clinch Mountain Country Saturday Night & Sunday Morning Great High Mountain While the Ages Roll On Clinch Mountain Gospel ASIN: B00005NVZ1 Release Date: 2001-09-25

Tracks:

1. Ridin' That Midnight Train (with Iris DeMent)
2. Will You Miss Me (with Pam Tillis)
3. Little Willie (with Patty Mitchell)
4. Oh, Death (with Gillian Welch)
5. Loving You Too Well (with Dolly Parton)
6. The Memory Of Your Smile (with Maria Muldaur)
7. Are you Tired Of Me, Darling (with Sara Evans)
8. Weeping Waltz (with Joan Baez)
9. I'll Never Grow Tired Of You (with Kristi Stanley)
10. Rank Stranger (with Gail Davies)
11. Trust Each Other (with Iris DeMent)
12. Angel Band (with Chely Wright)
13. You Win Again (with Melba Montgomery)
14. I'm Ready To Go (with Jeannie Seely)
15. Farther Along (with Lucinda Williams)
16. I'll Remember You Love In My Prayers (with Valerie Smith)

Amazon.com

This 16-track duet package is something of a companion piece to 1993's Saturday Night & Sunday Morning and 1998's Clinch Mountain Country, both of which offered a dazzling array of duets featuring Ralph Stanley singing with an A-list of country and bluegrass stars. Clinch Mountain Sweethearts, which features only female partners, is a worthwhile collection, though somewhat less focused than its predecessors. Country, folk, and pop stalwarts such as Iris DeMent, Lucinda Williams, Dolly Parton, Gillian Welch, Chely Wright, and Joan Baez display their artistry as they square off with Stanley at the microphone. But the real treats are Stanley's duets with less celebrated talents like Gail Davies, Melba Montgomery, Valerie Smith, Kristi Stanley, and Jeannie Seely. --Bob Allen

Customer Reviews:

+ 1/2 stars.....Bluegrass Is Alive And Thriving.......2003-02-09

I have had in my collection for decades the numerous albums the Stanley Brothers cut for Starday, King and Gusto in the fifties and sixties. However, I'll admit it wasn't until Ralph Stanley's resurrection in popularity with the whole "O Brother" phenomenon that I began noticing his more recent labums.

The premise to this 2001 Rebel release was simple: Find some of the best female vocalists in the business and revisit some of the old Stanley Brothers classics. I was skeptical at first, but after the first notes of "Ridin' That Midnight Train" with Iris DeMent, any misgivings I had disappeared.

Although no less moving, Stanley performs "Oh, Death" with Gillian Welch--not a capella, but with the backing of the Clinch Mountain Boys. Other highlights are Dolly Parton's version of "Loving You Too Well," Sara Evans' "Are You Tired of Me, Darling," Lucinda Williams' "Farther Along" and Valerie Smith's "I'll Remember You in My Prayers." Truth to tell, these are are all lovingly performed songs.

As the reigning patriarch of bluegrass, it's encouraging to see Ralph Stanley (who was 73 when these recordings were made) not only receive the recognition he deserves but for helping pass the torch so bluegrass will continue to thrive into the 21st Century. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

In Dreamland with Dolly, Iris, Melba, Chely, Lucinda, et al.......2002-08-01

This is the third album of Ralph Stanley's with guests (or is it the fourth? - I think Saturday Night Sunday Morning was recorded as two separate albums) - and came about because the ladies were seriously under-represented on the earlier projects, yet clearly indicated a desire to record with Ralph. The success of John Prine's In spite of ourselves (featuring another stellar cast of ladies, also including Iris, Melba and Lucinda) would have dispelled any doubts about the viability of such a project.

Though under-represented, some notable ladies did appear on the previous albmus (Clinch Mountain Country and Saturday Night Sunday Morning), including Connie Smith (who also appeared on that John Prine album), Alison Krauss, Emmylou Harris. Patty Loveless, Rhonda Vincent and Laurie Lewis, so they leave the stage to others this time.

All the songs are beautifully sung and well chosen. On albums like these, your favorites tend to depend on which guests you like best, but there are so many here that I love, although Dolly is my favorite singer.

Valerie Smith recorded a stunning debut album (Patchwork Heart), listed as Limited Availabilty by Amazon.com - a definite contender for my favorite bluegrass album. I haven't heard her second, Turtle wings.

It's great to see Jeannie Seely back in the recording studio, singing a lovely version of I'm ready to go.

Kristi Stanley (Ralph's daughter-in law) makes her recording debut here, and acquits herself well. It remains to be seen whether she records anything of her own.

Patty Mitchell, who also puts in a great performance, was once a member of the Dixie Chicks. Their music pre-Natalie was very different, much more solidly traditional (way off the mainstream - I could never imagine a major label wanting them), as evidenced on their Little ol' cowgirl album, one of three unavailable early albums, not listed by Amazon.com.

Then there's Pam, Maria, Sara, Gail, Joan, Gillian and the five in my headline .... each and every one of them makes a magnificent contribution. For Iris fans, there's a real treat - she gets to do two songs.

So there you have it - a great bluegrass album of love songs, featuring fifteen magnificent ladies, some world-famous like Dolly and Joan, some complete unknowns like Patty and Kristi and the rest somewhere in between, yet all putting in strong enough performances such that nobody really stands out from the rest - and that makes for a great album.

Traditional Bluegrass.......2002-03-12

How can any album go wrong with Ralph Stanley at the helm! These albums that have been created with Stanley and friends will go through many generations of music listeners as the best that bluegrass has to offer....I love ya Ralph....

Ralphs Band in Rare Form.......2002-02-17

Having made the pilgrimage to Ralph's mountaintop Memorial Day festival last year I can tell you that even the best recording can't do justice to Ralph and his band live. That said, this album rocks! Ralph and his producers have done a fine job pairing him with some phenomenal singers. His band sounds like they were born to play together. These guys are special! "Lil Willie" gets my vote as the best track among several stellar cuts. That fiddle tears me up every time I hear it.

My heartfelt wish is that this wonderful music continues to find its way into popular culture. We need Ralph unplugged on MTV! If it worked for Tony Bennett it can work for Ralph (although Ralph would be a considerably more challenging cross-over project!). If this NYC-raised Van Halen - George Clinton lover can "get it", anyone can!!

This hits the Spot!.......2002-02-08

Making a distinction between this recording and "pure" bluegrass seems beside the point to me. Ralph Stanley has simply assembled some of the very best female country/bluegrass vocalists around, matched them up with great tunes and produced a CD that spends A LOT of time on my stereo system. Iris DeMent and Ralph are terrific, so much so that I hope they record again together real soon. But then I would buy a CD by Iris DeMent and virtually anyone. Don't pass this album up, no matter what sort of music you prefer.

Average customer rating:

The Concert Legrand Manufacturer: Bmg Japan ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Film Scores | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Brazil | South & Central America | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | Latin Music | Styles | Music Latin Pop | Latin Music | Styles | Music Bebop General | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music Hard Bop | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Jazz | Styles | Music Latin Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music Swing General | Swing Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music Vocal Jazz General | Vocal Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music New Orleans & Dixieland Jazz | Compilations | Jazz | Styles | Music Smooth Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Live Albums | Jazz | Styles | Music Dixieland | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music General | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music General | Latin Music | Indie Music | Stores | Music International | Imports | Stores | Music Jazz | Imports | Stores | Music Latin Music | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: Michel Legrand: Live in Brussels Celebrated Film Scores, Jazz Tunes and Chansons ASIN: B00005YWRT Release Date: 2002-04-03

Tracks:

1. Once upon a Summertime
2. Saddest Thing of All
3. You Must Believe in Spring
4. Wonder Where I'll Be Tomorrow " [Theme from "Sheila Levine Is Dead ...]
5. Christine
6. Sweet Gingerbread Man " [Theme from "The Magic Garden of Stanley ...]
7. Happy [Love Theme from Lady Sings the Blues]
8. Snowbirds Serenade
9. Fickle Fingers
10. Petite Musique d'Amour (Do You Hear Music in Your Sleep?)
11. Pieces of Dreams

Album Description

Japanese exclusive reissue of 1976 album featuring live versions of 11 Legrand classics for films, 'Once Upon a Summertime', 'The Saddest Thing of All', 'You Must Believe in Spring', 'Wonder Where I'll Be Tomorrow', 'Christine', 'Sweet Gingerbread Man', 'Happy', 'Snowbirds Serenade', 'Fickle Fingers', 'Petite Musique d'Amour' & 'Pieces of Dreams'. K2 24 bit mastering.

Album Details

First Time Available on CD. Originally Recorded in 1976.

Average customer rating: The Forgotten Jazz masters. fase #_____________

Great Friends Sonny Fortune With Billy Harper & Stanley Cowell Manufacturer: Evidence ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Blues | Styles | Music General | Compilations | Blues | Styles | Music Bebop General | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Jazz | Styles | Music Modern Postbebop | Jazz | Styles | Music Similar Items: Soul of an Angel Destiny Is Yours With Love - Charles Tolliver Big Band Time Lines Live on Tour in the Far East, Vol. 2 ASIN: B00008MHB1 Release Date: 2003-03-04

Tracks:

1. Cal Massey
2. Is It Not True Simply Because YOu Cannot Believe It?
3. Thoughts
4. Equipoise
5. Synapse
6. East Harlem Nostalgia
7. Insight
8. Awakening

Customer Reviews:

The Forgotten Jazz masters. fase #_____________.......2005-03-21

Musics from 1986, it seems like only yesterday I found a disc , grazii mille to a friend who operated a Jazz record store and imported this Billy Hart recording session , really a cooperative "leaderless" contribution by all 5 legends of "post -hard bop" JAZZ world!

The flexibility of bop and modal soundscapes, mixed with the "free jazz" sensibilities ALL "friends" posess and the beautiful composing of all make this session a 1000 stars affair!

Despite the current commercialization of jazz musics (to the extent that "they" can commercialize jazz) and the accolades given to so many so-called "young lions" who might not deserve the credits they receive while these fine musicians have been passed over , more/less.
Musics as this still see the light of day again, big thanks to labels as Evidence. These recording labels still define the quality of musics over bottom line sales as well as they are able and we are lucky that they still survive this "McDonald hamburger" era of "sameness equals 'normal'".

Conformity is for squares, 'mano, hehehehe!

There really are no finer front line , musicians who are "brothers in sound" , but posessing each a completely unique and innovative idiom as Sonny Fortune (the northerner)on alto and Texas tenor man Billy Harper.

Cliche as "firey", innovative", passionate are not enough to describe both men's contribution to jazz, and to this recording specifically! They burn as a star, out of control but tamed only by the mystical physical laws! Intricate and delicious lines from start to finish .

Stanley Cowell on piano is not only the same innovative improvisor, but a first rate composer as many already know. The classic "Equipoise" is given the complete treatment here , again!

Reggie Workman (bass) and Billy Hart (drums), do they need any introductions, both 1st call musicians on their respective instruments, and keep time from the metronomic to the most "flexive", they dance and play with the ritmos with furious abandon.

Anyone applied disciple of the Strata East, Black Jazz, Inner City, etc labels will love this set, with everything from the altered blues tribute to another unsung jazz maestro, "Cal Masssy" to the modal contemporary "Synapse" and the Coltrane infused "Awakening", this session logs over 65 minutes of musical magics!

These stellar musicians must be in your constellation, and this recording one of the many reason why!

Average customer rating:

I'm a Man of Constant Sorrow The Stanley Brothers , and The Clinch Mountain Boys Manufacturer: Import ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Blues | Styles | Music Traditional Blues | Blues | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Traditional | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music ASIN: B00008LEMJ Release Date: 2006-04-25

Tracks:

1. I'm a Man of Constant Sorrow
2. Lonesome River
3. Hey! Hey! Hey!
4. Sweetest Love
5. Wandering Boy
6. Fields Have Turned to Brown
7. Pretty Polly
8. Drunkard's Hell
9. Too Late to Cry
10. Old Home
11. We'll Be Sweethearts in Heaven
12. Gathering Flowers for the Master's Bouquet
13. Angels Are Singing (In Heaven Tonight)
14. White Dove

Tracks:

1. Molly and Tenbrooks
2. Rambler's Blues
3. Little Glass of Wine
4. Our Darling's Gone
5. Little Maggie
6. Jealous Lover
7. Mother No Longer Awaits Me at Home
8. Girl Behind the Bar
9. Death Is Only a Dream
10. I Can Tell You the Time
11. Let Me Be Your Friend
12. It's Never Too Late
13. Have You Somone (In Heaven Awaiting)
14. Vision of Mother

Tracks:

1. Cotton Eyed Joe
2. Blue Moon of Kentucky
3. Lonely Tombs
4. Orange Blossom Special
5. Old Joe Clark
6. They're at Rest Together
7. White House Blues
8. Standing in the Need of Prayer
9. Riding the Humpbacked Mule
10. Goodbye Old Pal
11. Just One Way to the Pearly Gate
12. Short Life of Trouble
13. Blackberry Blossom
14. Rose of Old Kentucky

Average customer rating: This is one of my absolute favorite Gershwin CD's An Exceptional CD of Gershwin's Music Great and subtle pianist FANTASTIC INTERPRETATION I heard this CD highlighted on the radio today

Gershwin / Fazil Say, New York PO Fazil Say , and Kurt Masur Manufacturer: Elektra / Wea ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Gershwin | Gershwin, George | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Impromptus | Short Forms | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Piano | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Say, Fazil | ( S ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Modern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music English | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Similar Items: Fazil Say Plays Bach Black Earth Stravinsky: Le Sacre du Printemps Fazil Say: Mozart Piano Concerti Nos. 12, 20 & 23 Mozart: Piano Sonatas K.330, K.331 "Alla turca", K.333; Variations on "Ah, vour dirai-je, maman" K.265 ASIN: B00003ZACB Release Date: 2000-04-25

Tracks:

1. I Got Plenty O'Nuttin'
2. Summertime (I)
3. Summertime (II)
4. It Ain't Necessarily So
5. Rhapsody In Blue
6. Rialto Ripples, Rag
7. Impromptu In Two Keys
8. Merry Andrew
9. Three-Quarter Blues
10. Promenade
11. 'I Got Rhythm' Variations
12. Sleepless Night
13. Novelette In Fourths
14. Rubato
15. Prelude I
16. Blue Lullaby
17. Spanish Prelude

Amazon.com

Nobody can accuse Fazil Say of having a bad time while recording this disc of Gershwin classics. He brings a jazzy improvisation and plenty of spunk to these well-worn tunes, creating one of the most enthralling Gershwin piano discs around. Some pianists make Gershwin sound grandiose (Helen Grimaud, for instance), but Say makes this music fun. His alternating takes on "Summertime"--one slow and pensive, the other dizzying and swinging--are unforgettable, while his "It Ain't Necessarily So" is spiky and mischievous. A small rhythm and horn section keeps up with the pianist on a few of the shorter works, while Kurt Masur and the New York Philharmonic get in on the action for Rhapsody in Blue and the lesser-heard "'I Got Rhythm' Variations." Featuring some of Gershwin's most technical, modernist writing, "Variations" is a real discovery, as are Say's inventive interpretations of the shorter solo miniatures. Throughout, he's clearly in his element, having a blast and showing off. Gershwin seldom sounds this good. --Jason Verlinde

Customer Reviews:

This is one of my absolute favorite Gershwin CD's.......2001-12-26

There's some rather rare pieces on this CD--including the wonderful cakewalk Novelette in Fourths. Gershwin wrote some wonderful jazz-style preludes for piano, but usually only three are recorded. There are a number of other short piano works that are delightful and practically impossible to find on CD. Fortunately, they are here, along with some favorites from Porgy and Bess and other piano arrangements of Gershwin songs such as the virtuoso "I Got Rhythm" variations.

What's really great is that Fazil Say plays these with humor and lightness. No heavy, pseudo-scholarly seriousness here. He makes the most of his pianistic skill and yet retains the spirit of Gershwin's playfulness and fun. This is definitely a must-have if you love Gershwin.

An Exceptional CD of Gershwin's Music.......2001-11-11

Fazil Say demonstrates his familiarity with Gershwin's music in this excellent Teldec CD. Unlike other classically trained pianists who have opted to play Gerswhin as though it was traditional classical music, Say instead performs these scores as the lively, danceable jazz tunes that they are. He does a fine job emphasizing the connections between Gershwin's music and earlier forms of jazz such as ragtime. Indeed Say demonstrates not only his familiarity with Gershwin's scores, but shows he's having much fun playing them. So do the classical musicians who accompany him on several arrangements. Kurt Masur and the New York Philharmonic accompany Say on "Rhapsody in Blue" and the variations on "I Got Rhythm" with excellent performances of their own. Without question, this is one of the finest CDs I've heard of Gershwin's music performed by classically trained musicians.

Great and subtle pianist.......2000-12-28

Although everything on this disc is also heavily recorded by others, Fazil Say has indeed found new arrangements to the songs and pieces, which made George Gershwin famous. Maybe The Rapsody in Blue is the one that has been recorded most, by any standard. But nevertheless the comparison between versions is always interesting, mostly due to the work itself. Fazil Say has a more jazzy approach than let's say, Michael Tilson Thomas or even Alicia Zizzo (the latter is better than that of Tilson Thomas). With Fazil Say you hear that Gershwins music is firmly rooted in ragtime and music hall, the piano being the one they use in a bar, in most other interpretations there is the tendency to use a grand piano, typically concertlike. Although Gershwin craved to be a concertcomposer (he even went to Paris to ask Ravel to teach him), his strength laid in jazzy, vaudeville-like sharpness, and above all, syncopated music. It was music to dance to. His songs mostly transcend the lightness of musical (music hall) songs, which he wrote together with his brother Ira. In addition, especially Porgy and Bess, which is an opera true to the word, is simultaneously impressing and touching, though halfheartedly unemancipating in its use of so called Negro language. However, Fazil Say has nothing to do with that, and his interpretations are wonderful, in the songs his piano really sings, you do not miss the voice of the singer. In addition, I will not forget to mention the New York Philharmonic under Kurt Masur, who gives an outstanding performance, surprising and full of the necessary rhythm and drive.

The sound quality is excellent, especially brass and percussion. The quintet that accompanies Say in the first four numbers is up to its job and more. The sound of the piano is very well captured.

FANTASTIC INTERPRETATION.......2000-06-27

This is a MUST HAVE CD for all Gershwin fans. You feel the sadness, joy, happiness, all in this CD. Fazil Say is once again showing his virtuousity as well as his understanding of Gershwin through all the pieces he played, both on solo, quintet and orchestral performances. One feels fully satisfied with the pleasure of Gershwin's fantastic interpretation. Very highly recommended..

I heard this CD highlighted on the radio today.......2000-06-22

My local public radio station was playing cuts from this CD all morning as a way to get people interested in pledging money. I already made my donation, so I thought I would give Amazon.com some attention for a change. I was very impressed with what I heard. The arrangements are a mixture of Fazil being backed by a small quintet and the New York Philharmonic. He can play piano! Enjoy!

Average customer rating: Great Tenor on Great Recording!

King of Honky Tonk Sax Joe Stanley Manufacturer: Wild Child Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Blues | Styles | Music General | Jazz | Styles | Music Swing General | Swing Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music General | R&B | Styles | Music ASIN: B000005HY0 Release Date: 1996-10-15

Tracks:

1. RAMBUNCTIOUS
2. PENNIES FROM HEAVEN
3. I NEED YOU
4. BLUES FOR DANNY
5. PACK YOUR SUITCASE
6. JAMBALAYA
7. EVENING
8. CHICKEN-FRIED TENOR
9. THE LADY IS A TRAMP
10. I'M SO BLUE
11. PLEASE RELEASE ME
12. I CAN'T STOP LOVING YOU
13. RAINBOW RIDE

Customer Reviews:

Great Tenor on Great Recording!.......2002-01-17

I was surprised to listen to the CD.
It's a great '50's R&B sound in '90.
It strongly hit me!

Average customer rating: Great Unsung Heroes

Z.T.'s Blues Stanley Turrentine Manufacturer: Blue Note Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Bebop General | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music Hard Bop | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Jazz | Styles | Music Soul-Jazz & Boogaloo | Jazz | Styles | Music Blue Note Records | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Boogaloo | Jazz | Indie Music | Stores | Music ASIN: B000005HDF Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

1. Z.T.'s Blues
2. More Than You Know
3. The Lamp Is Low
4. The Way You Look Tonight
5. For Heaven's Sake
6. I Wish I Knew
7. Be My Love

Customer Reviews:

Great Unsung Heroes.......2001-12-15

Stanley Turrentine and Grant Green are two of jazz's great unsung heroes. On this album, they are joined by a cast of much more recognized characters. Tommy Flanagan backed Ella Fitzgerald for many years and is his usual bluesey self on this album. Paul Chambers always delivers and most jazz fans immediately recognize Art Taylor as one of jazz's great drummers (Miles dissed him pretty hard in his autobiography, saying that he always came in late, but my ears just aren't refined enough to tell - he sounds great to me). Anyway, this all-star cast should make this album an immediate no-brainer. Especially if you're interested in Stan and Grant. The first song starts off with a Turrentine solo and Tommy flanagan can be heard comping on the piano. Grant Green picks up with his crisp, clear, bell sounding notes. Flanagan solos and than Chambers picks up the bow and does a quick solo that leaves one wanting more. I really enjoy hearing Mr. PC play the bass with a bow. I won't try to describe all the songs, I'm not versed enough in jazz to do so. Listen to it for yourself. Paul Chambers, Tommy Flanagan with Grant Green on a Mr. T album... how can you go wrong. Not what one would call a "classic" but definitely worth a listen.

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1. That's That
2. The Arizona Cowboy
3. The Roots of Elvis
4. The Sensational Charley Pride
5. The Singles
6. The Vanguard Years [Box set]
7. The Way Back to Texas
8. Top Tunes Karaoke CDG Fun Pack TTFP-7&8 v2; Faith Hill & Tim McGraw, Shania Twain and Alan Jackson [Karaoke]
9. Touchstones
10. Try And Try Again [Import] [Live]

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