| 1. I Do! |
| 2. Presence |
| 3. Little Wing |
I Do,Indigo,Pioneer,World Music
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Mamma Mia! The Musical Based on the Songs of ABBA: A Decca Broadway Original Cast Recording (1999 London Cast)
Benny Andersson , Julian Poole , Jenny Galloway , Nicolas Colicos , Paul Clarkson , Bjorn Ulvaeus , Lisa Stokke , Eliza Lumley , Melissa Gibson , Siobhan McCarthy , Louise Plowright , Jenny Galloway , Bjorn Ulvaeus , and Stig Anderson Manufacturer: Decca Broadway ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Similar Items:
ASIN: B000031WEN Release Date: 2000-10-17 |
Tracks:
- Overture/Prologue
- Honey, Honey
- Money, Money, Money
- Thank You For The Music
- Mamma Mia
- Chiquitita
- Dancing Queen
- Lay All Your Love On Me
- Super Trouper
- Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!
- The Name Of The Game
- Voulez-Vous
- Entr'acte
- Under Attack
- One Of Us
- S.O.S.
- Does Your Mother Know
- Knowing Me, Knowing You
- Our Last Summer
- Slipping Through My Fingers
- The Winner Takes It All
- Take A Chance On Me
- I Do, I Do, I Do, I Do, I Do
- I Have A Dream
Amazon.com
Put together by Abba's own Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, Mamma Mia! manages to cram over 20 of the Swedish supergroup's songs into a threadbare plot. It goes a little like this: Young Sophie is getting married and she's trying to identify which of three men is her father. That's about it. Wisely, the musical doesn't mess around with the songs, save for the insertion of some dialogue or for having some of them performed by a man (it works amazingly well). Abba fans will jump on this import of the London production, but traditional fans of musical theater should consider it as well. After all, Andersson and Ulvaeus's songs have always felt as if they were more than isolated pop gems and actually belonged to a longer narrative. --Elisabeth VincentelliCustomer Reviews:
Mamma Mia.......2007-03-22
Mamma Mia Musical CD.......2007-03-21
JUST GREAT MUSIC.......2007-03-08
Mamma Mia.......2007-01-29
Not good at all.......2007-01-09
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Thoroughly Modern Millie (2002 Original Broadway Cast)
Jeanine Tesori , Dick Scanlan , and Sutton Foster Manufacturer: RCA Victor Broadway ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Similar Items:
ASIN: B000066B4Y Release Date: 2002-06-11 |
Tracks:
- Overture (Orchestra)
- Not for the Life of Me (Sutton Foster)
- Thoroughly Modern Millie (Sutton Foster and Ensemble)
- Not for the Life of Me (Sutton Foster, JoAnn M. Hunter, Alisa Klein, Jessica Grove, Megan Sikora, Catherine Brunell and Kate Baldwin)
- How the Other Half Lives (Angela Christian and Sutton Foster)
- Not for the Life of Me (reprise) (Ken Leung and Francis Jue)
- The Speed Test (Marc Kudisch, Sutton Foster, Anne L. Nathan and Ensemble)
- They Don't Know (Harriet Harris)
- The Nuttycracker Suite (Orchestra)
- What Do I Need with Love? (Gavin Creel)
- Only in New York (Sheryl Lee Ralph)
- Jimmy (Sutton Foster)
- Back at Work (Orchestra with Sutton Foster, Anne L. Nathan and Ensemble)
- Forget About the Boy (Sutton Foster, Anne L. Nathan and Ensemble)
- Ah! Sweet Mystery of Life/I'm Falling in Love with Someone (Marc Kudisch and Angela Christian)
- I Turned the Corner/I'm Falling in Love with Someone (quartet/reprise) (Gavin Creel and Sutton Foster, Marc Kudisch and Angela Christian)
- Muqin (Harriet Harris, Francis Jue and Ken Leung)
- Long as I'm Here with You (Sheryl Lee Ralph and Male Ensemble)
- Gimme Gimme (Sutton Foster)
- Finale (Thoroughly Modern Millie) (Gavin Creel, Angela Christian and Ensemble with Sheryl Lee Ralph and Sutton Foster)
- Final Bows (Entire Company)
Amazon.com
Although it's based on the 1967 movie of the same name, Thoroughly Modern Millie is almost thoroughly new. Composer Jeanine Tesori (Violet) and lyricist Dick Scanlan wrote a whole batch of songs, while retaining a couple from the movie--including the Jimmy van Heusen-Sammy Cahn title tune--and recycling even older material (look for Victor Herbert's "I'm Falling in Love with Someone" and the inventively arranged "Nuttycracker Suite"). Miraculously, the show, set during the jazz age, doesn't feel stitched together, and Tesori does a great job cranking out swinging melodies. Sutton Foster is appropriately brassy as Millie, but she can also tone it down, as in the beginning of "Gimme Gimme" (of course, she then proceeds to project up to the last rafters as the song builds to its climax). Harriet Harris, as nasty Mrs. Meers, steals the show with "They Don't Know." Close your eyes, listen to her, and you'll be back in Broadway's golden age. --Elisabeth VincentelliCustomer Reviews:
Excellent Musical, But Product Quality - Eh.......2007-07-15
My problem was not with the quality of the cd, but with the plastic case. The cd cases always come cracked. Although it doesn't affect the quality of the cd itself, it's rather disheartening that Amazon charges customers for its poor shipping.
MODERNIZE your music collection!!!.......2007-07-13
A must to add to your collection.......2007-05-18
Delightful.......2006-06-12
YOU WILL LOVE IT.......2006-02-17
Have Fun!
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The Best That I Could Do 1978-1988
John Mellencamp Manufacturer: Island ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Similar Items:
ASIN: B000001EYI Release Date: 1997-11-18 |
Tracks:
- I Need A Lover
- Ain't Even Done With The Night
- Hurts So Good
- Jack And Diane
- Crumblin' Down
- Pink Houses
- Authority Song
- Lonely Ol' Night
- Small Town
- R.O.C.K. In The U.S.A.
- Paper In Fire
- Cherry Bomb
- Check It Out
- Without Expression
Amazon.com
The Best That I Could Do collects the singles that led John Mellencamp into the radio/jukebox pantheon he celebrated in "R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A." and "Cherry Bomb." While albums such as American Fool, Uh Huh, and Scarecrow held Top 10 spots for months, their spinoff hits made this Hoosier disciple of Jagger, J.B., and Iggy into something like a Reagan-era John Fogerty: not only were "Pink Houses," "Paper in Fire," and "Crumblin' Down" wise (and wiseacre) dispatches from an America where it wasn't always morning, they could fill a dance floor and get you pounding the dashboard on the way home. --Rickey WrightCustomer Reviews:
John Mellencamp.......2007-03-27
I had forgotten how much I enjoyed his music..........2007-03-14
Good Collection of Hits.......2007-02-08
Great Collection of Songs.......2006-05-27
This is another one of those "best of" compilations. If you're new to John or just want to hear the hits (up until 1988), this is a good CD to get. If you'd like to hear what John is really about, I think you should get the individual albums. Although all the songs here are greats, it's almost too skimpy of a collection to fully appreciate John's great music. Still, it's good fun to have all the hits in one place for easy listening convenience, and I do recommend it.
Best Ever - All Classics.......2005-09-21
If you love John Cougar Mellencamp, this is a CD you must have.
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Man of La Mancha: A Decca Broadway Original Cast Album (Original 1965 Broadway Cast)
Mitch Leigh , Joe Darion , Richard Kiley , and Joan Diener Manufacturer: Decca Broadway ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Similar Items:
ASIN: B00005A8KE Release Date: 2001-03-06 |
Tracks:
- Overture
- Man Of La Mancha (I, Don Quixote)
- It's All The Same
- Dulcinea
- I'm Only Thinking Of Him
- I Really Like Him - Joan Diener
- What Do You Want of Me - Joan Diener
- Little Bird, Little Bird
- Barber's Song/Golden Helmet
- To Each His Dulcinea (To Every Man His Dulcinea)
- The Impossible Dream
- The Combat (Previously Unreleased Reissue Track)
- Dubbing (Knight of the Woeful Countenance) - Joan Diener
- The Abduction
- Aldonza - Joan Diener
- A Little Gossip
- Dulcinea (Reprise) /The Impossible Dream (Reprise) /Man of Mancha (Repr - Joan Diener
- Finale (The Impossible Dream) - Joan Diener
Amazon.com
Man of La Mancha, the show that introduced "The Impossible Dream" to the world (and lounge singers everywhere), was the hit of the 1965 Broadway season. Richard Kiley is magnificent in his career-defining performance as the deluded wannabe knight Don Quixote. His leading lad Joan Diener sings the role of the kitchen wench Aldonza with just the right balance of dignity and vulgarity. Irving Jacobson turns in a fine comic performance as the Don's faithful squire, Sancho Panza. The score, with music by Mitch Leigh and lyrics by Joe Darion, was revolutionary in its time. The orchestra had no violins--just brass, woodwinds, percussion, and flamenco guitars. Man of La Mancha is one of Broadway's most inspiring musicals and it well deserves its high reputation. --Michael SimmonsCustomer Reviews:
Check out Other Versions. Don't be swayed by Others' Reviews........2007-06-09
After that test, I have to agree with the reviews here that Richard Kiley is the superior Don Quixote. Domingo's voice is, of course wonderful, but Kiley acts the role better on the CD and Domingo's accent is a major distraction.
In the role of Aldonza - no contest. Julia Mingenes-Johnson's singing and performance on the Sony version is far superior to Joan Diener's. I didn't have to hear the tracks back-to-back to realize that. Ms. Diener's performance just grated on my ears from the beginning.
Bucking the crowd, I prefer Mandy Patankin's Sancho (Sony version) to Irving Jacobson's. I may be biased, having had more exposure to the Sony version, but Patankin seemed to be trying to inject a bit more feeling into the character. Jacobson, singing in an annoying, scratchy voice, came across almost like a cartoon trying to fit in among live characters. It seems like most people either like Patankin or hate him. Guess I'm one of the former.
The Orchestration does seem brighter/clearer in this version compared to the Sony version, but, in general, the tempo on most tracks seems slower than the same tracks on the Sony version. I preferred the up-tempo, Sony versions of "The Barber Song", "Little Bird, Little Bird", "The Dubbing" and "A Little Gossip".
In Summary: For Kiley's Don Quixote, you'll probably want this version, but for tracks featuring Aldonza (and maybe Sancho) you'll want to check out the Sony version. Since I have both disks, I will probably come up with a mix of my favorite tracks, in general, favoring the Sony disk but substituting the tracks that feature Richard Kiley's Don Quixote where I can.
beautiful music for a haunting story............2007-06-07
Man of LaMancha As Good As Ever.......2007-05-07
Don Quixote.......2006-09-14
I hated the idea. But when we began to play, he even had us watch the musical, I fell in love with the melody. The many songs of a man who believes the best in the world. YOu find that in Dulcinea, The Impossible Dream, etc.
From one maginificently rendered song to another, you can be lost in its melodic elegance.
My favorite song is the initial rendition of 'Little Bird, Little Bird'. It's a soft song, sung as a love ballad. In the musical you discover it's being sung to a local whore by a bunch of randy men. Despite that, I still like it.
This along with others are among the great works of the stage!
Magnificent voices.......2006-07-05
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The Essential Yo-Yo Ma
Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Similar Items:
ASIN: B000A7Q29G Release Date: 2005-08-16 |
Tracks:
- Prde from Suite No. 1 in G Major for Cello, BWV 1007
- II. Largo from "Winter", Op. 8, No. 4, RV 297 from the Four Seasons
- Jesus, bleibet meine Freude (Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring), BWV 147
- Schafe kn sicher weiden (Sheep May Safely Graze), BWV 208
- Wachet auf, ruft uns die Stimme (Sleepers Awake), BWV 645
- The Swan from Carnival of the Animals (Chamber Version)
- Havanaise, Op. 83
- Mtation from Tha
- Liebesfreud Instrumental
- Allegro ben ritmato e deciso from Three Preludes
- Vocalise Vocal
- IV. Allegro from Sonata in D minor for Cello and Piano, Op. 40
- Andante Cantabile for Cello Solo and String Orchestra, Op. posth.
- IV. Rondo alla Zingarese. Presto from Quartet No. 1 in G minor for Piano and Strings, Op. 25
- III. Finale. Allegro moderato from Concerto in B minor for Cello and Orchestra, Op. 104
Tracks:
- Cristal
- A lenda do caboclo
- Chega de Saudade Live
- Wapango Live
- Libertango
- Appalachia Waltz Solo Cello Version
- Butterfly's Day Out
- 1B
- Pickin' from Three Pieces for Solo Cello
- Simple Gifts
- The Mission
- Gabriel's Oboe
- The Falls Album Version
- The Eternal Vow from Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon
- The Cellist of Sarajevo - A Lament in Rondo Form for Solo 'Cello, Op. 12
- Chi passa per'sta strada
- Mido Mountain (Chinese Traditional)
- Mohini (Enchantment)
- Baroque in Rhythm from Suite for Cello and Jazz Piano Trio
- Anything Goes Instrumental
- I Could Have Danced All Night Extended version
Amazon.com
Here are three dozen pieces of music, all played by Yo-Yo Ma, culled from his extensive discography. Aside from the technical mastery and beautiful tone that are absolutes in all of his playing, one is dazzled by his curiosity and ability to adapt to so many forms and types of music. His Bach and Vivaldi are pellucid and played with non-sentimental crispness, his tango music gritty and rhythmically pungent, his jazz seemingly spontaneous, the "Meditation" from Thais simply ravishing, "Anything Goes" a romp, and the Appalachian music performed with both respect and a great twang, while the traditional Chinese music is fascinating. It's really a matter of how much Ma loves whatever he plays here, how entirely he becomes involved in it, and what a fine partner he invariably is to other musicians. This collection is a doozy--it is truly "essential." --Robert LevineCustomer Reviews:
pure genius.......2007-05-21
Yo Yo Ma shows to be master of the instrument and his interpretations en technique are pure genius. Everyone should have this album in his (or hers of course) basic classical collection
Another great Yo-Yo Disc.......2007-05-15
first disc great- second a flop.......2007-04-12
Encore.......2007-03-31
The Versatile Yo-Yo Ma.......2007-03-29
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I Do Not Want What I Haven't Got
Sinéad O'Connor Manufacturer: Capitol ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Similar Items:
ASIN: B000003JB7 Release Date: 1990-02-28 |
Tracks:
- Feel So Different
- I Am Stretched On Your Grave
- Three Babies
- The Emporer's New Clothes
- Black Boys On Mopeds
- Nothing Compares 2 U
- Jump In The River
- You Cause As Much Sorrow
- The Last Day Of Our Acquaintance
- I Do Not Want What I Haven't Got
Amazon.com
Before Sinead O'Connor became conservative America's most reviled musician when she ripped up a picture of the Pope on TV and refused to perform live at a New Jersey venue following "The Star Spangled Banner," she vocally supported the IRA at home in Ireland and generally roused the rabble. Indeed, she's one female pop star who's truly earned her army boots. Though her once meteoric musical career has suffered due to her outspokenness, the powerful voice and presence found on her second album is beyond reproach. Best known as the source of O'Connor's breakthrough cover of Prince's "Nothing Compares 2 U," this is a moving, intensely passionate work full of dark beauty and longing, constructed with a fierce independence and a taste for the unique. This undeniably pop album (albeit with modern-rock and folk elements) has more than held up through the years. --Lorry FlemingCustomer Reviews:
Sophomore anti-slump.......2007-06-18
Oh. Wait. It gets better?
Yes, it does. From the moment she launches into the Serenity Prayer in the stunning orchestral opener, "Feel So Different," you get the sense that this might not be your typical pop album. You might even worry that it intends to bash you over the head. Fortunately, she's much smarter than that.
While O'Connor's big Pope controversy was yet to occur, you can hear it brewing in the form of "Black Boys on Mopeds," when she sings, "These are dangerous days / To say what you feel is to dig your own grave." She knew that her words were going to get her into trouble sooner or later, and they did, and it sent her spiraling off, as far as I can tell.
And then she recovered, and came back with more seriously wonderful music. But that's another story. This album crystallizes a moment in time: it's about a woman struggling to find her voice and doing a dangerously good job of it.
A real artist.......2007-05-03
Truly one of the best Pop-Rock albums in history.......2006-12-29
Moreover, this album begs to differ with the crass VH1 classification of O'Connor as some "one-hit wonder" -- "Emperor's New Clothes" wound-up as the No. 1 Billboard Modern Rock hit of 1990, reminding us that this vibrant, tortured, influential artist has really always been an alt-rock artist with a string of notable hits in her true genre. "Nothing Compares" was simply a 'crossover' hit on an undeniably classic modern rock masterpiece-of-an-album.
Fans can never be objective..........2006-04-21
I Do Not Want What I Haven't Got.......2006-03-24
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Fiddler on the Roof
Jerry Bock , Sheldon Harnick , and Topol Manufacturer: Capitol ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Similar Items:
ASIN: B00005OB07 Release Date: 2001-10-09 |
Tracks:
- Prologue/Tradition/Main Title
- Matchmaker
- If I Were A Rich Man
- Sabbath Prayer
- To Life
- Miracle Of Miracles
- Tevye's Dream
- Wedding Procession
- Sunrise, Sunset
- Wedding Celebration/The Bottle Dance
- First Act Finale
- Entr'acte
- Do You Love Me?
- Far From The Home I Love
- Chava Ballet Sequence
- The Rejection Scene
- Anatevka
- Finale
- Any Day Now
Amazon.com
This new version of the Fiddler on the Roof soundtrack coincides with the movie's 30th anniversary (which is also celebrated by a special edition DVD). The CD is notable for several instrumental tracks by John Williams, as well as for "Any Day Now," a previously unreleased song performed by Perchik/Paul Michael Glaser (better known for his starring role in TV's Starsky and Hutch). The soundtrack is often compared unfavorably with the original 1964 cast album, in which Zero Mostel played the part of Tevye (here performed by Topol, who had been in the 1967 London production). But this CD has a lot going for it, including glossy remastering and, of course, Isaac Stern as the fiddler. In the end, whatever version you decide to pick up, Fiddler remains one of the most enduring musicals of all time. --Elisabeth VincentelliCustomer Reviews:
Topol is best as the Papa.......2007-07-15
Love it.......2007-05-16
CP as Grandmother Tzeitel.......2007-03-30
Never Ending Joy!.......2006-11-22
-Christian Fobian, Author of Why Christ?
Great a classic.......2005-11-08
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The Notebook
Various Artists Manufacturer: New Line Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Similar Items:
ASIN: B00023B1E4 Release Date: 2004-06-08 |
Tracks:
- Main Title
- Overture
- "I'll Be Seeing You" Performed by Billie Holiday
- "Alabamy Home" Performed by Duke Ellington
- Allie Returns
- House Blues/The Porch Dance/The Proposal/The Carnival
- Noah's Journey
- "Always And Always" Performed by Benny Goodman & His Orchestra
- "A String Of Pearls" Performed by Glenn Miller & His Orchestra
- On The Lake
- "Diga Diga Doo" Performed by Rex Stewart And The Ellingtonians
- "One O'Clock Jump" Performed by Benny Goodman & His Orchestra
- "I'll Be Seeing You" Performed by Jimmy Durante
- Noah's Last Letter
- Our Love Can Do Miracles
Amazon.com
Based on Nicholas Sparks' novel, director Nick Cassavetes film spins the bittersweet tale of a 60-year romance, as seen from the polar perspectives of its promising youth and the travails of an old age cursed by Alzheimer's. Its soundtrack effectively echoes those polar dramatic concerns, with composer Aaron Zigler's gentle orchestral score largely giving voice to the character's melancholy present, while a rich, well-chosen slate of vintage material by Billie Holiday, Duke Ellington, Benny Goodman and Glenn Miller imparts a restless energy to their youth. There's a certain schmaltz to much of Zigman's work here, yet cues like "House Blues/The Porch Dance.." and "Noah's Journey" argue he's achieved something more elusive than mere melodramatic wallpaper with the deceivingly difficult task at hand; it can't be easy to have your work seasoned with the likes of Ellington's sassy "Alabamy Home" and Goodman's still-vibrant "One O'Clock Jump." Sharply contrasting versions of "I'll Be Seeing You" by Holiday and Jimmy Durante bookend the soundtrack, perfectly evoking the story's alternating shades of hope and fading nostalgia and framing Zigman's understated work in the bargain. --Jerry McCulleyAlbum Description
Based on the best selling novel by Nicholas Sparks ("A Walk To Remember", "Message In A Bottle"), "The Notebook" is the story of Noah and Allie, teenage lovers torn apart by WWII and Allie's parents' demands to marry a respectable lawyer. After 14 years apart, they meet again and rekindle their true love. Starring Ryan Gosling, Rachel McAdams, James Garner, and Gena Rowlands. The soundtrack is a propelling force. In addition to classic WWII era pieces, Aaron Zigman's score suites enhance the record with beautifully dramatic themes. Score performed by the Hollywood Studio Symphony.Customer Reviews:
Touching.......2007-07-04
It say's go for the "true love", settle for nothing else no matter what may be in store, because love that is "true" and as beautiful as their's was, is a rare thing!
I absolutely loved the ending.
I also loved that a movie CAN be truly wonderful, beautiful and touching WITHOUT grafic "sex scenes!" Also sadly a rare thing in movies today.
Ever seen "Hanover Street?" Equally beautiful. No SEX scenes either!
Angelfish
Pays music a complement. I love the classical pieces!.......2007-05-27
the Notebook soundtrack (Audio CD).......2007-05-13
Very Nice.......2007-03-30
A sweeping, emotional standout!.......2007-01-11
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The Very Best of The Irish Tenors
The Irish Tenors Manufacturer: Music Matters ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Similar Items:
ASIN: B000069JJ6 Release Date: 2007-01-08 |
Tracks:
- Toora Loora Looral
- Will Ye Go Lassie Go
- Spanish Lady
- When Irish Eyes Are Smiling
- Percy French Medley: Phil The Fluther's Ball, Come Back Paddy Reilly, The Lay Of The West Clare Reailway, Are Ye Right There Michael?
- Amazing Grace
- Nearer My God To Thee
- Danny Boy
- Fields of Athenry
- Only The River Runs Free
- Molly Malone
- Last Rose of Summer
- She Moved Through the Fair
- Maggie
- New Medley (combination of the 2 medleys
Product Description
1. Toora Loora Looral
2. Will Ye Go Lassie Go
3. Spanish Lady
4. When Irish Eyes Are Smiling
5. Percy French Medley: Phil The Fluther's Ball, Come Back Paddy Reilly, The Lay Of The West Clare Railway - Are Ye Right There Michael?
6. Amazing Grace
7. Nearer My God To Thee
8. Danny Boy
9. Fields Of Athenry
10. Only The River Runs Free
11. Molly Malone
12. Last Rose Of Summer
13. She Moved Through The Fair
14. Maggie
15. New Medley (Combination of the 2 medleys)
Format: CD
Amazon.com
In the short time since they grouped together a few years ago to form their sensationally successful trio, the Irish Tenors have already put out an impressive array of recordings and DVDs, including some bona fide gooseflesh-inducing live concert performances. So, if you still have the enviable pleasure of discovering these amazing vocalists--or want to turn a friend on to their musical charms--this compilation CD will do the trick nicely. It brings together such classics as "Danny Boy," "Toora Loora Looral," "Last Rose of Summer," and "When Irish Eyes Are Smiling" (featuring John McDermott)--all rendered with the kind of passionate, heartfelt, and harmonious crooning that is their signature style, whether they're singing as an ensemble or as highlighted soloists. And even if you have the complete Irish Tenors, this anthology includes several numbers not found on their previously released CDs. Hard to think of a sweeter treat for a fan of singing too good to ever go out of fashion. --Sarah ChinCustomer Reviews:
Irish at it's best........2007-05-07
Irish Magic.......2006-08-21
Just got your Kleenex.......2005-12-25
Wonderful!.......2005-12-12
So wonderful. So much fun.
Up here in backwash Maine, there ain't much, believe me. But these guys are great. Sincere, care about what they're doing, true artists.
Ah, to go to Ireland again. Well, not unless the price of natural gas recedes!
The Very Best of the Irish Tenors is just that!.......2005-01-22
Well worth buying.
Isaac Chute
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King Arthur
Hans Zimmer Manufacturer: Hollywood Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Similar Items:
ASIN: B0002IQIWE Release Date: 2004-07-27 |
Tracks:
- Tell Me Now (What You See)
- Woad To Ruin
- Do You Think I'm Saxon?
- Hold The Ice
- Another Brick In Hadrian's Wall
- Budget Meeting
- All Of Them!
Amazon.com
What are legends if not for reinventing -- and/or hyper-inflating into Hollywood summer fare? In retooling the Arthurian legend for the goth-beguiled video game age, mega-producer Jerry Bruckheimer did away with details small (the lady in the lake, sword in the stone, etc.) and large (this Arthur is actually Eastern European, by way of Rome). Composer Hans Zimmer picks up that gauntlet, producing an orchestral score bristling with massed brass, chorus and percussion -- if little of the indigenous mysticism that made his work on Gladiator/ so rewarding. What there is of that precious commodity is frontloaded via the song "Tell Me Know (What You See)," his evocative opening collaboration with Clannad's Moya Brennan. From there, Zimmer emphasized this version's Eastern conceits with a half-dozen suites of cues that thunder in the Russian classical tradition -- and all the melodic range of "Jingle Bells." Zimmer--not to mention Poledouris--has done it better, but fans of outsized orchestral Gothic moodfests may yet take this one to heart. --Jerry McCulleyCustomer Reviews:
We Will Go Home.......2007-07-13
Good music.......2007-05-16
Want to hear Gladiator II?.......2007-04-12
And you better believe it, Hans Zimmer actually managed to blow up his sound from Gladiator even more, and I really didn't think this was possible, mainly because I thought it would sound utterly pathetic and over the top. And make no mistake, Zimmer's King Arthur is just that.
I am reviewing this score in retrospect, and it is truly fascinating to do that. When you look at other composers and make a little journey to their past, you usually find more creativity. The further back you go, the more original and fresh music you find. With Hans Zimmer, it's the opposite. With each year you go back, his scores just get more dreary, and that's saying alot because his latest works also don't really qualify as schoolbook examples for colourful scoring.
From Gladiator to Pirates Of The Caribbean 2, Hans Zimmer has yet to come forth with a truly fresh and unique score. Zimmer never, ever, not in a million years, escapes his usual box. And King Arthur is no exception whatsoever. From the get go, 20 horns are amassed and play a overly simplistic motif somewhere between a and A, the strings mush together in midrange, melodramatic chords, and dwell in the shallow realm of overbearing dullness.
I don't understand how an artist - and the art of film composing is severely underrated - can be content with repeating the same thing over and over. If I were Hans Zimmer, I would be embarassed by now to even write one more note for that droning bass.
To top it all off, Zimmer incorporates an Enyaesque voice that is easy on the ears, but in the end signifies nothing, does nothing and does all that with an amazing lack of substance.
That is, amongst others, the major difference between a serious film composer and Hans Zimmer: a good and skillful film composer takes an average film like King Arthur and makes it sound like something worthwhile. Hans Zimmer on the other hand embraces mediocrity and underlines it to create an even more average film.
King Arthur.......2007-04-09
Hans' Best.......2007-03-12
That said, King Arthur is Hans' most intriguing score to date. Backdraft and Gladiator (overrated) were very good, but this score is a departure from Hans' usual motifs. The only bad part for me(not related to the music itself) is that there are only seven tracks and each are very long. I like shorter tracks so I can pinpoint the themes or variations I want to lsiten to, but this is extremely minor. The music is great, and I reccommend you go enjoy Hans' best music yet.
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