Song of the Sun [Import]

Product Description
The Irkutsk City Folk Drama Theatre was Established in 1977 to Give Dramatic Insight Into Russian Folk Art and Life. Just Think of all Those Breathtaking Russian Fairy-tales and Ornate Ceremonies! Sweeping Choruses Dating Back to Russian Ancient History, Flavored by Authentic Instrumentation of Woodwinds and Strings Will Transport Your Soul from the Daily Routine Into the Mystical World of Wonders.

Song of the Sun,Irkutsk City Folk Drama Theatre,EMI,World Music

Average customer rating: spiritual americana Rich Heritage Superb Can't walk away from it! Mana from Heaven

American Angels Manufacturer: Harmonia Mundi Fr. ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music | Requiems Anonymous 4 | ( A ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Folk Songs | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Anonymous | A to B | Featured Composers, A-Z | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Classical | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: Gloryland Wolcum Yule: Celtic and British Songs and Carols - Anonymous 4 with Andrew Lawrence-King 1000: A Mass for the End of Time / Anonymous 4 A Portrait Of Anonymous 4 The Origin of Fire: Music and Visions of Hildegard von Bingen ASIN: B0001ADB4Q Release Date: 2004-02-10

Tracks:

1. Holy Manna
2. Abbeville
3. Wondrous Love
4. Sweet Hour Of Prayer
5. Jewett
6. Dunlap's Creek
7. New Britain
8. The Morning Trumpet
9. Resignation
10. Poland
11. Wayfaring Stranger
12. Sweet By And By
13. Blooming Vale
14. Idumea (I)/Idumea (II)
15. Sweet Prospect
16. Shall We Gather At The River
17. Amanda
18. Invitation
19. Parting Hand
20. Angel Band

Amazon.com

This, Anonymous 4's final recording, is a break from their usual "early music" periods and locations; it presents American music, religious in nature, from the 18th and 19th centuries. And it's absolutely beautiful from start to finish. Their normal, exquisite technique and purity here blend to sound the way we imagined the ladies' choir in church meetings in America past might have sounded: sweet, sincere, and with harmonies recognizable yet somehow fresh. Some of the songs begin with the women singing "fa, so la" exercises, which was called "shape note" singing because some places taught singing with notes as shapes--circle, rectangle, diamond, triangle. But it's the music that counts, and there are treasures here. They include two versions of "Amazing Grace," one familiar, one with an unusual melody and a piece called "Blooming Vale" which is as sophisticated as anything on their previous albums. "Shall We Gather at the River" is performed with a clarity and loveliness that makes us forget that it's normally sung as background to movies about the Great Depression. The foursome sometimes sing in rich harmonies and occasionally alone or in pairs or trios. This is glorious Americana and highly recommended. --Robert Levine

Customer Reviews:

spiritual americana.......2007-01-06

I have some of the older Anonymous 4 recordings which are more medieval
and gregorian in style (I love them!). They move on to cover spiritual
basics of the 1800s. If you like classical music, perfect harmonies
and spiritual americina, then you will be blessed!

Rich Heritage.......2006-10-11

Anonymous 4 consistently produces exquisite and authentically beautiful recordings and this one presents early American hymns in ways few groups can manage. Some tunes are highly recognizable while others are 'new' to me but a refreshing reminder of the singing heritage of religious societies in times past. For those who enjoy old hymns and authentic renderings, this is a must buy.

Superb .......2006-08-07

This collection of American Christian music is not only an enthralling musical experience but a spiritually uplifting one as well. Anonymous Four have transferred their luminous vocal quality to a new space with perfect success.

Can't walk away from it!.......2006-08-07

My only "complaint" about the CD is that I absolutely HAVE to sit and listen to the entire thing whenever I start it up! I usually have music playing in the background while doing other things, but not this one! There are no tracks that I find myself wanting to skip over as in most collections. In fact, I usually find myself going back and listening to selected tracks again (and again and...) after taking the hour+ to listen to the whole thing through once.

These four ladies produce a unique and remarkable sound. I can't recommend it enough.

Mana from Heaven.......2006-05-08

I think the title of this CD is perfect. I first heard an interview for this CD on Public Radio and fell in love. I had never heard Anonymous 4 before then but look for all I can find of their music now. The title is perfect as the women sound like Angels and the music lifts the spirit. I find myself singing the old version of Amazing Grace all the time now. Incredible and a huge blessing to all who hear it.

Average customer rating: Great to Hear All those great Voices from the Past A Good One!

Greatest Hits: Broadway Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Bernstein | Bernstein, Leonard | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Gershwin | Gershwin, George | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Porter | Porter, Cole | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Modern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music $6.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Bernstein, Leonard | ( B ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Gershwin, George | ( G ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Porter, Cole | ( P ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Rodgers, Richard | ( R ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Sondheim, Stephen | ( S ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | 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: The Best Of Broadway (Cast Recording Anthology) Only Broadway CD You'll Ever Need Greatest Songs from the Musicals The Best of Broadway - The American Musical (PBS Series) Very Best Of Broadway Musicals ASIN: B0000029PM Release Date: 1996-10-29

Tracks:

1. Oklahoma!: Oh, What A Beautiful Mornin' - John Raitt/Franz Allers
2. On The Town: New York, New York - Michael Kermoyan/Adolph Green/John Reardon/Cris Alexander & Chorus/Leonard Bernstein
3. Annie Get Your Gun: I Got The Sun In The Morning - Doris Day/Franz Allers
4. Fiddler On The Roof: If I Were A Rich Man - Topol/Gareth Davies
5. West Side Story: Tonight - Larry Kert/Carol Lawrence/Max Goberman
6. The Sound Of Music: The Sound Of Music - Mary Martin/Frederick Dvonch
7. My Fair Lady: On The Street Where You Live - Jerry Lanning/Theodore Saidenberg
8. Annie: Tomorrow - Andrea McArdle/Peter Howard
9. The Music Man: Seventy-Six Trombones - The Boston Pops Orchestra/John Williams
10. Anything Goes: You're The Top - Eileen Rodgers/Hal Linden/Julian Stein
11. Bye Bye Birdie: Put On A Happy Face - Dick Van Dyke/Elliot Lawrence
12. Mame: Open A New Window - Angela Lansbury & Cast/Don Pippin
13. Strike Up The Band: Strike Up The Band - The Chestnut Brass Co.
14. Sweet Charity: Hey, Big Spender - Helen Gallagher/Thelma Oliver/Fan-Dango Girls/Fred Werner
15. Bells Are Ringing: Just In Time - Judy Holliday/Sydney Chaplin/Milton Rosenstock
16. Gypst: Together, Wherever We Go - Ethel Merman/Jack Klugman/Sandra Church/Milton Rosenstock
17. Cabaret: Cabaret - Jill Haworth/Harold Hastings
18. Phantom Of The Opera: The Music Of The Night - The Boston Pops Orchestra/John Williams
19. Show Boat: Ol' Man River - William Warfield/Franz Allers
20. A Chorus Line: What I Did For Love - Priscilla Lopez & Cast/Don Pippin
21. A Little Night Music: Send In The Clowns - Glynis Johns/Harold Hastings

Customer Reviews:

Great to Hear All those great Voices from the Past.......2007-07-05

I just wanted to confirm what the first reviewer had to say about this CD. To hear Ethyl Merman, Mary Martin, Andrea McCardle etc. singing their trademark songs brought a lot of memories from the mid-centry musical theater back again. The last song by Glynis Johns is especially poignant.
You certainly can't beat the price!

A Good One!.......2006-11-10

This is a very good CD, mostly because it's the original artists. I've had some that were re-recorded by no name artists that were ghastly. This one is a really good one--including the sound quality. If I had one wish, I would wish it were longer!

Average customer rating: Sublime and ridiculous Eeeeeeeeeeewwwwwww Better than I thought it would be Brava Renee Art is always new.

Haunted Heart Paul McCartney , Gustav Mahler , Joni Mitchell , Emile Paladilhe , Arthur Schwartz , James ("Jimmy") Van Heusen , Various Composers , Heitor Villa-Lobos , Jimmy Webb , Richard A. Whiting , Stevie Wonder , Guy Wood , Bill Frisell , Fred Hersch , and Renée Fleming Manufacturer: Decca ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Foster, Stephen | ( F ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Mahler | Mahler, Gustav | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Villa-Lobos, Heitor | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Villa-Lobos, Heitor | Composers | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music Similar Items: Sacred Songs Renee Fleming - The Beautiful Voice ~ Gounod, Lehaair, Orff, Puccini, Rachmaninov, Strauss Renée Fleming Handel Renee Fleming: By Request ASIN: B0007Z9QUS Release Date: 2005-05-10

Tracks:

1. Haunted Heart
2. River
3. When Did You Leave Heaven?
4. You've Changed
5. Answer Me
6. My Cherie Amour
7. In My Life
8. The Moon Is A Harsh Mistress
9. Wozzeck/The Midnight Sun
10. Liebst du um Schit
11. My One And Only Love/This Is Always
12. Can do Amor
13. Psych
14. Hard Times Come Again No More

Amazon.com

While countless fans flock to see soprano Renee Fleming's performances of the Countess in The Marriage of Figaro because she's got the voice and the dramatic ability to handle such meaty roles, the versatile singer throws her fans a curveball on Haunted Heart, singing popular standards and ballads as well as a few altered classical pieces. In her liner notes, Fleming calls this album a "look back at the road not taken" -- she played a weekly gig in a jazz club while in school. Nonetheless, her feel for the material here is undeniable. Interestingly, she drops her voice a full octave from her usual tessitura, and the change reveals a robust gospel-oriented approach filled with dramatic breaths and moans. The lyrical Fred Hersch (piano) and the idiosyncratic Bill Frisell (guitar) provide support, and both are adventurous jazz players who create subtle and uniquely haunting backdrops. It adds up to an interesting cross-section of ideas well carried off by the generous talents of all involved. --Tad Hendrickson

\

Interview with Renee Fleming
Renee Fleming speaks about recent projects, including her memoir The Inner Voice and her recent Handel CD, in our interview.

Customer Reviews:

Sublime and ridiculous.......2007-06-13

The sublime: much of the artistry of this recording is about sound, and the subtle blending/responding of voice with guitar sounds and / or piano sounds. It is in the sensitive musical interplay between the artists where this effort shines. Definitely not recommended for road trips!

The ridiculous: Fleming ended the majority of most phrases in most of the songs with a guttural of some sort which for me becomes irritating to the point of distraction. These punctuations are mostly quite awful: really tasteless, clumsy, and overused big time and I'm amazed at how this ever got released. Without these ersatz testifyin' noises this CD would be stunning.

So, if you have the ability and inclination to edit out this garbage from your perception as you listen I think you'll be glad you experienced these artists at work together. (Unfortunately I'm not up to it).

Eeeeeeeeeeewwwwwww.......2007-06-06

Ugh. Like a manufactured home vs. a stick-built house, Fleming's manufactured (aka "training and technique") blues voice compares unfavorably to other jazz/blues singers/lounge acts. Would not, COULD not, listen to this recording straight through--one big long, breathy, minor key train wreck in the making. Took the CD on a road trip and had to pull over and remove from queue--either that or drive into a wall.

Better than I thought it would be.......2007-04-10

I have to admit, Haunted Heart was a lot better than I thought it would be,especially her recordings of "River", "The Moon's a Harsh Mistress, "My Cherie Amour" and "In my life".
I think this is the most artistically successful recording of Pop/Jazz by a classical singer. I enjoyed it even better than the Anna Sophie Von Otter'/ Elvis Costello CD.
The perspective I am coming from is that of a classical singer who started out as a pop singer/songwriter. I perform and teach cross-genre but love a world class instrument such as Flemming's
I wanted to get the perspective of a friend who used to sing jingles and is also a trained singer but is usually critical of any attempts that opera singers make at crossing -over.
My friend is very familiar with Flemming's voice, but did not recognise it in this context when I played the CD for her. Her reaction was very complimentary, although she did comment that the diction was a bit strange.
She then played it for her brother a well known jazz singer and arranger who had a somewhat negative reaction.He found the singing to be overly dark and round. He prefers a cleaner more 'spoken' approach to this style of singing. I understand this perspective and therefore personally prefer Ella to Sarah as well, but let's not get too picky. Obviously, Rene Flemming is of the Sarah Vaghan School of jazz singing, which is not too shabby.

I will continue to enjoy this CD and will wait for another opera diva to top this one. But, somehow I think the next really good CD of Pop/ jazz from an opera star will also come from Rene.

To those who have been unreasonably mean and negative towards her, I can only say you are not fit to polish her shoes!

Brava Renee.......2007-04-09

This talented woman can sing anything. I really enjoyed this cd with the lights turned down and a glass of wine to relax after a very stressful day at work. Renee could definitely have another singing career outside of opera should she choose. Hearing her drop that gorgeous voice down one octave rivals the best chanteuses in the business - Cassandra Wilson, Nancy Wilson, Regina Belle, Sarah Vaughan, etc. This cd of different musical styles reminds me of Nina Simone and Cassandra Wilson, two great singers whom could interpret any song genre and make their versions special. I loved all the songs and the standouts here are "Haunted Heart", "River", "My One and Only Love", "My Cherie Amour", "Cancao do Amor", and Beatles "In My Life", and "Hard Times Come Again No More".
I hope Renee keeps recording whatever catches her fancy because I'll certainly always listen.

Art is always new. .......2007-03-10

Renee Fleming is an artist bringing us something new, and beautiful. The poor will always be with us as manifest in those who resent other's movement from their established zones. Renee Fleming is a great female voice with accomplishments her detractors will never have, but in their dreams.

I welcome Renee's elan demonstrated with her recent recordings, Love sublime with Brad Mehldau, and Haunted Heart with Fred Hersch and Bill Frissell. Bravery, fun, and talent combined by artists and for people who are listening. Hearing long time favorites Mehldau, Hersch, and Frissell is all the more sublime.

Average customer rating: Excellent teaching tool I have only one complaint about this CD What every kid (and parent needs!) What's Opera Doc? Lots of Fun Music

The Classical Child at the Opera Manufacturer: Classical Child ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Delibes, Léo | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Humperdinck, Engelbert | ( H ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart | Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Offenbach | Offenbach, Jacques | ( O ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Sullivan | Sullivan, Arthur | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Verdi | Verdi, Giuseppe | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Rossini | Rossini, Gioacchino | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Romances | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music French | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Children's Music | Styles | Music Classical | Indie Music | Stores | Music General | Children's Music | Indie Music | Stores | Music Categories | Toys & Games | Action Figures | Activities & Amusements | Arts & Crafts | Bikes, Skates & Ride-Ons | Construction, Blocks & Models | Dolls | Electronics for Kids | Games | Hobbies | Kids' Furniture & Room Décor | Learning & Education | Music | Party Supplies | Play Vehicles | Preschool | Pretend Play & Dress-up | Puzzles | Sports & Outdoor Play | Stuffed Animals & Toys | Toy Figures & Playsets Browse Refinements | Refinements | Toys & Games | Gender (target_audience_browse-bin) Similar Items: Pavarotti's Opera Made Easy-My Favourite Opera For Children World's Very Best Opera for Kids... in English! Classical Music for Children: A Toddler's Introduction to Classical Music Beethoven's Wig: Sing Along Symphonies Mozart's Magnificent Voyage ASIN: B00000J29D Release Date: 2001-05-04

Tracks:

1. Children's March [From Carmen]
2. Doll Song [From Tales of Hoffmann]
3. Anvil Chorus [From II Trovatore]
4. Bird Catcher Am I [From the Magice Flute]
5. Papagena! Papagena! Papagena! [From The Magic Flute]
6. Pa, Pa, Pa, Pa [From the Magice Flute]
7. Flower Duet [From Lakm
8. Largo Al Factotum [From the Barber of Seville]
9. Three Little Maids from School [From the Mikado]
10. Sun Whose Rays Are All Ablaze [From the Mikado]
11. Tit-Willow [From the Mikado]
12. Brother, Come Dance With Me [from Hansel and Gretel)
13. I Am the Little Sandman [from Hansel and Gretel)
14. Children's Prayer [from Hansel and Gretel)

Album Description

OPERA IS FOR EVERYONE and so, The Classical Child At the Opera was created to give children a taste of the magic, majesty and humor of this glorious art form. Well-known songs and arias have been selected that appeal to young sensibilities, while easy-to-follow English translations bring these delightful stories and characters to life. Care has been taken by the singers to present the music in a way that is light hearted and accessible sometimes gentle, sometimes raucous, but always positive and engaging.

Customer Reviews:

Excellent teaching tool.......2006-05-10

I use this CD is my classroom for a wide variety of activities including art instruction for which it is ideally suited. It is hard to recommend this CD enough! Thanks for putting it together.

I have only one complaint about this CD.......2006-04-16

My one complaint is that after I listen to this CD, the catchy tunes get stuck in my head! And then I want to keep listening to it more and more. I love the selections on this CD, the fact that the songs are in English (I always wondered what the "Figaro, Figaro, Figaro" song was about!), and that a little background is given to each piece as well.

What every kid (and parent needs!).......2004-02-06

All I can say is my family LOVES this CD! We have a blast singing along, dancing, etc. It's made opera a new discovery for all of us.

What's Opera Doc?.......2003-03-29

No, this isn't Bugs Bunny's version of opera. It is, however, an excellent introduction to opera, for young and old alike. The the translations to English are quite clever, and the singers' voices are, for the most part, excellent and clear (overly florid voices can be such a turn-off). Grant Doyle, the baritone, is a particular stand-out: rather than sing "at" you, he manages to convey humor and emotion in his parts... you can almost *see* the funny bird catcher, Papageno, in the three songs from Mozart's "Magic Flute", which happent to be my 5-year old's favorite tracks. Doyle's turn as Figaro in "Largo al Factorum" from "The Barber of Seville" is pure joy. The children's chorus in "The Children's March" from "Carmen" is also delightful, and Gabriella Santinelli's(?) voice as the doll from Offenbach's "Tales of Hoffman" is simply amazing.

As much as I enjoy this album, I question the inclusion of the last three songs, which come from "Hansel and Gretel". The voices on the songs are of the overly florid nature, and I can see my daughter lose interest. I think it would have been more interesting to include more "Carmen," or arias from other such popular operas "Rigoletto" or "Aida". Or if the album needed to end on a slower note, the overcoat song from "La Boheme."

IAC, I have caught my daughter humming bits and pieces from the operas. Even I have managed to amaze people by correctly identifying the Flower Duet from "Lakme"! I strongly recommend this album.

Lots of Fun Music.......2002-11-29

Our baby seems to enjoy this operatic CD almost as much as her parents enjoy it. Maybe she doesn't even really hear it, but she does see her parents acting silly and singing along to the catchy opera songs. I think we'll be listening to this one for many years to come. You'll probably really enjoy this CD if you have an appreciation for opera already.

Average customer rating: Great sound and great song! Along with the Good Vibrations are my favorites My dad loves it Great Album! Beautiful singing; clever arrangements

The Kings Singers - New Day John David , Peter Christie , Cy Coleman , Warren Casey , Bob Barratt , John Lennon , Lionel Richie , Don Schlitz , Hal David , George Harrison , Jim Jacobs , Benny Andersson , Paul McCartney , Michel Legrand , Barry Manilow , Ed Welch , Harry Robinson , Daryl Runswick , The King's Singers , Gordon Langford Quartet , and Cliff Hall Manufacturer: EMI Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music King's Singers | ( K ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music A Cappella | Folk | Styles | Music $8.99 and Under | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Pop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Soundtracks | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Classical | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music $8.99 and Under | Prices | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music $9.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | 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: The King's Singers Original Debut Recording The Beatles Connection: The King's Singers Good Vibrations Annie Laurie ~ Folksongs of the British Isles / Barrueco · The King's Singers Watching the White Wheat: Folk Songs of the British Isles; King's Singers ASIN: B000002RQO Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

1. You Are The New Day
2. Nouveau Poor
3. Three Times A Lady
4. What's In A Tune?
5. You'd Have To Be A Rosie
6. Can't Buy Me Love
7. Singapore Girl
8. 'Sweet Charity': The Rhythm Of Life
9. The Gambler
10. It Was Almost Like A Song
11. Here Comes The Sun
12. Hush Little Baby, Don't Say A Word
13. 'Grease': Money, Money, Money-Summer Nights
14. The Summer Knows
15. Could It Be Magic

Customer Reviews:

Great sound and great song!.......2007-05-19

I loved the song "A New Day" after hearing it on the radio. I tracked it down and ordered the CD. All the songs are terrific.

Along with the Good Vibrations are my favorites.......2007-05-15

Own it! It's all worth it!
"You are the new day" is my personal favorite song.

My dad loves it.......2007-02-13

If he likes it then I am happy. Not my cup of tea. I like the idea that there where some Beatles tunes. Dad is 57 I am 36 might be the difference in age. NOt sure. Just not my cup of tea

Great Album!.......2006-04-22

I was very amazed when I first heard this album. Their sound is like no other. They are so unique that you can't compare them to other acapella groups.

I can say that their sound is better than a mixed choir because even though the King's Singers is only composed of 6 members. Their sound volume can beat a 30 member choir due to the quality of their voice.

My favorite is "It Was Almost Like A Song" because of the countertenor's very light voice. The baritone part was also awesome as he dominated the scene when he took the melody.

Overall, great album. This has to be one of the King's Singers best albums released. All songs are great that you can't resist missing a moment on listening it.

Beautiful singing; clever arrangements.......2002-06-14

I have been a fan of The King's Singers since their debut recording thirty years ago. New Day is one of my favourite albums. It has the terrific optimistic song "New Day," but many other wonderful tracks.

"Can't Buy Me Love" is sung as if it had been written by one of the Renaissance madrigal writers when he was in a very good mood. There are other up tempo tracks like this one, including Abba's "Money, Money, Money" and "The Rhythm of Life," but the CD also includes some romantic, lush singing in songs such as "Three Times A Lady," "The Summer Knows" and "It Was Almost Like A Song."

The clever arrangement of Barry Manilow's "Could It Be Magic?" begins with an extract from a sombre Chopin Prelude in C minor.

Highly recommended.

Average customer rating: Choral work at it's finest. Love it Light and shadows Cambridge Singers = Quality American Gramaphone, please reissue this title.

Brother Sun, Sister Moon Gregorian Chant , William Byrd , John Taverner , Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina , Samuel Scheidt , John Sheppard , Maurice Durufle , Robert White , Cambridge Singers , Gerald Finley , and John Rutter Manufacturer: American Gramaphone ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Byrd, William | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Duruflé, Maurice | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Sheppard | Sheppard, John | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Taverner | Taverner, John | ( T ) | 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 General | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Sacred & Religious | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music | Requiems Vocal & Song | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music | Requiems Sacred & Religious | Renaissance (c.1450-1600) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Jazz | Styles | Music Vocal Jazz General | Vocal Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Chants | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Masses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Motets | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Partsongs | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Renaissance (c.1450-1600) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Similar Items: Brother Sun, Sister Moon Stillness And Sweet Harmony Hail, Gladdening Light: Music of the English Church Faire is the Heaven: Music of the English Church Lighten our Darkness ASIN: B0000005MF Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

1. Music Of The Morning Rite: a. Alleluia - b. Haec Dies
2. Music Of The Morning Rite: Easter Sequence
3. Dum Transisset Sabbatum
4. Sanctus
5. Exsultate Deo
6. a. Easter Acclamations b. Surrexit Christus Hodie
7. Music Of The Evening Rite: Before The Ending Of The Day
8. Music Of The Evening Rite: In Pace
9. Music Of The Evening Rite: Into Thy Hands, O Lord
10. Music Of The Evening Rite: Ubi Caritas
11. Music Of The Evening Rite: Keep Me As The Apple Of An Eye And Nunc Dimittisa
12. Music Of The Evening Rite: O Christ, Who Art The Light And Day
13. Music Of The Evening Rite: a. We Will Lay Us Down In Peace b. Libera Nos, Salva Nos

Amazon.com

A brief glance at the packaging for this recording might make you think New Age, and indeed this label normally offers recordings in that vein. The disc's cover tells nothing about the music inside--all we see are the ruins of an ancient abbey, the moon in the sky on the front, the sun on the back. But wait. If you get far enough to listen to the recording, you'll find one of the most beautiful and beautifully programmed choral recordings in the catalog. The compositions, organized into the categories "Music of the Morning Rite" and "Music of the Evening Rite," are mostly from 16th- century composers--Byrd, Taverner, Sheppard, White--with a few Gregorian chants and a gorgeous rendition of the 20th-century motet by Duruflé, "Ubi caritas." Conductor/choral music legend John Rutter has assembled a program that's both uplifting and restful; the performance is faultless. One could only complain about the short (39 and a half minutes) playing time. --David Vernier

Customer Reviews:

Choral work at it's finest........2007-06-03

I really enjoyed this work. I was first introduced to this title through American Gramophone's website and was also my first introduction in the works of John Rutter and the Cambridge Singers. You do not have be religious to enjoy this work. I find the music uplifting and very sublime. I have listened to it many times, and I find that my favorite period to play it is in the morning hours. .

I have since purchased many other Rutter titles including "Images of Christ", and more recently "Lighten our Darkness"

Love it.......2007-05-02

13 years ago, I had the tape of brother sun, sister moon and as a teenager and I would play it every night as I slept, I loved it. I dont know what happened to it and I have ever sence been looking for it, and I just baught the CD and am so excited.

Light and shadows.......2003-07-29

Recorded in the Great Hall of University College School, London, the Cambridge Singers under the direction of John Rutter produced a true masterpiece in 'Brother Sun, Sister Moon' in 1988. The title derives from a famous prayer by St. Francis of Assisi, and is inspired by liturgical music from (or derivative of) the Middle Ages and Renaissance polyphony and Gregorian chant. The music is meditative, uplifting, and elegant in simplicity and stunning vocal quality.

--Brother Sun--
The first half of the disc is largely composed of pieces from the liturgical Morning Prayer cycle, concentrating on texts from Easter, the most important of Christian days. From the Alleluia to the Acclamations and Surrexit Christus Hodie (Christ is risen today), the flow from Gregorian Chant to compositions by Byrd, Taverner and Palestrina (giants of this type of music) in increasing energy and glory, as befits both a Morning service (time to wake up!) as well as a celebration of the resurrection of Christ. Perhaps of particular note here is the cantoring of bass Gerald Finley in the Easter Acclamations.

--Sister Moon--
The second half of the disc concentrates on music of the evening; in particular, the Compline service, a service of unwinding and sombre meditation with which monastic communities conclude their days of work and worship. Many churches have reincorporated Compline into a regular cycle of services; some have even done so as a result of exposure to this recording. The music here is softer and less energetic than that of Morning prayer. This includes music from Whyte and Sheppard (also masters of the Medieval-to-Renaissance liturgical polyphony) as well as a brilliant motet by twentieth century composer Duruflé for the Ubi Caritas.

--Liner Notes--
The notes for this recording include the titles and words, in both Latin and English, for each of the pieces recorded here. It has an excerpt from a prayer by St. Francis, and a basic introduction to the music relating it historically and liturgically. One thing conspicuously missing is any biographical information about John Rutter, or any descriptive information about the Cambridge Singers apart from the basic listing of singers.

--John Rutter--
Rutter was born in London and educated at Clare College, Cambridge. This was where his career as a composer, arranger and conductor began. His early work was with groups at King's College Chapel at Cambridge as well as the Bath Choir and Philharmonic Orchestra. He has worked for the BBC providing music for educational series such as 'The Archaeology of the Bible Lands', until in 1979 he began forming the Cambridge Singers, and has continued a remarkable career of performance and recording as their director ever since.

--The Cambridge Singers--
The Cambridge Singers are a mixed choir of voices, many of whom were members of choir of Rutter's college, Clare College, Cambridge. While they specialise in English and Latin liturgical pieces, they have a wide range of recordings that span from modern compositions (including a remarkable requiem by Rutter) to English folk songs of the Middle Ages. For this particular recording, the choir consisted of eleven sopranos, six altos, six tenors, and six basses.

Cambridge Singers = Quality.......2002-05-23

I do love this cd, but tend to play certain tracks as my first love is chant. I play the Victimae Paschali Laudes in the car and sing along - it is so very beautiful that this rendition of this Easter Chant is worth purchasing this cd alone. I love that one track so much, my only criticism of the cd is that I wish they'd centered the entire cd on chant - and I hope they will do one like that in the future because the quality of the voices is stunning.

American Gramaphone, please reissue this title........2000-03-30

I originally obtained this CD through Minnesota Public Radio. The first time I listened to the Ubi Caritus, I was moved to tears. The CD became my favorite to play at Christmas and other times. I gave the CD to a friend who has moved to Oregon, deeply regret that it is no longer in production.

John Rutter trains his singers to sing without vibrato, and blends their voices with such balance that they come together as a single instrument. The selection on this CD is perfect to demonstrate the clarity and richness of this ensemble. If American Gramaphone does reissue this title, I will be first in line to purchase it.

Average customer rating: marvelous countertenor voice

The Best of Andreas Scholl Manufacturer: Decca ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Dowland | Dowland, John | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Gluck | Gluck, Christoph W. | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Handel | Handel, George Frideric | ( H ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Pergolesi | Pergolesi, Gio Battista | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Porpora, Nicolo | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Vivaldi | Vivaldi, Antonio | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music | Cantatas | Romances General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Scholl, Andreas | ( S ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music | Cantatas | Romances German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Folk Songs | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Psalms | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music Similar Items: Wayfaring Stranger: Folksongs Andreas Scholl - English Folksongs & Lute Songs (17th Century) The Voice Andreas Scholl - Kantate Arias for Senesino ASIN: B000HKDCJ4 Release Date: 2006-11-20

Tracks:

1. Ombra Mai Fu
2. Che Faro Senza Euridce?
3. Ad Te Clamamus
4. Dove Sei, Amato Bene?
5. Stabat Mater
6. Cum Dederit Dilectis Suis Somnum
7. Lidia, Il Sonno Sai Cos'e?
8. Cara Sposa
9. Blow The Wind Southerly
10. The Salley Gardens
11. Ar Ri Rang
12. How Sweet The Moonlight
13. In Darkness Let Me Dwell
14. Amarilli Mia Bella
15. La Pieta Che Ancor Non Trova
16. Va Per Le Vene Il Sangue
17. Aure, Deh, Per Pieta
18. Al Lampo Dell'armi

Customer Reviews:

marvelous countertenor voice.......2006-12-10

many people say andreas scholl has a non-expressice voice for opera and that the beauty of his voice gets him by. well after listening to the choice of his best i argue that. his "dove sei" is beautiful as well as his "ombra mai fu," a peace he made his own.over all a very nice selection. a must for all andreas scholl fans and those who enjoy a musical diversity.

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 General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | 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: nice assortment aka "apollo's Banquet" watch out! You may not want this if . . . . Delightful Music-making! Buy it!!!

English Country Dances Douglass , Lawrence-King , and O'Dette Manufacturer: Hmf Classical Exp. ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Classical | Imports | Stores | Music $6.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Instrumental | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Similar Items: English Country Dances from Playford's Dancing Master 1651-1703 - The Broadside Band Italian Renaissance Dances Jane Austen Companion Italian Renaissance Dances, Vol. 2 English Country Dances ASIN: B00006I49B Release Date: 2002-11-12

Customer Reviews:

nice assortment.......2007-03-13

I enjoy historical music, and this cd was a good assortment of songs. I was expecting all bouncy country dances, but some tracks sound more complex and serious. I'm no expert on country dances, so I don't know if the selections are representative, but I enjoy the entire album. Perfect for an afternoon of relaxing with some good music and it won't put you to sleep.

aka "apollo's Banquet" watch out!.......2006-10-05

I can say that this was a surprise, and it's my fault for not checking the contents track by track. This is a re-issue of Apollo's banquet, and also a re-issue of the same from yet another name! I've had Apollo'w banquet for a long time. Somehow, I thought this CD would be mixed consort English music. Not so, it's mostly violin + cittern/ continuo.

Under the name "apollo's banquet" it's been a favorite of mine for years- very good division violin work, very nice improv too. This is top notch.

Nevertheless, beware! $6 for this disk is a real bargain- but it's still too pricey if you've already got it on your shelf! It seems this series is a fabulous value- I have the Italian renaissance dan ces vol 2 too, and it is also superb performace practice.

This series is a great way to buy excellent performances on the cheap- just watch out in case you already have it!

You may not want this if . . . ........2006-03-26

Personally, I found the music a bit slow and subdued. Not what one typically thinks of country dance music being like. However, the reason I rate it so low is because of the deception on the part of the producer/manufacturer/packager/whatever of this cd. This CD is actually the same - track for track, down to the timings - as "English Country Dances from Playford's Dancing Master". But this CD is deceptively attributed to the individual members of the band instead of naming the group, The Broadside Band. It is cheaper than the original cd, though. The short and sweet - if you have the Broadside Band cd, you don't want this one.

Delightful Music-making!.......2005-08-27

These selections of English Country Dances from the publications of the English music publisher John Playford are recorded and played so well as to relegate any criticism to spoiled grapes. Perhaps a musicologist might carp on some fine points, but then again probably not - musicologists actually enjoy a good tune, too. There is a nice couple pages of notes by Jack Ashworth on the historical background of the music, and a further short page by David Douglass on how he envisioned the 'nature' of several of the pieces. There is also a French translation following the English notes. Seven instruments are mixed higgledy-piggledy as the performers deem best - a copy of a 1652 Amati Violin, and copies of a Theorbo, a Cittern, a 16-string harp, an Italian Double Harp, an Irish Harp, and a Guitar. For the curious Douglass plays the violin only, but offers playing consanguineous with his name.
Among the choices cut 15 - "Long Cold Nights" - seems almost New Age in its evocation of the heavens: one might be in Big Sur looking up at the stars. The many other pieces come in divers moods and tempi, with great care given to which instruments are employed. It's difficult to imagine anyone disliking such engaging tunes, such joy in their making. The recording is of course digital so it helps to have a system capable of taming the inevitable string stridencies, but that said - if you like music from this period, or are curious, this CD offers a wonderful selection.

Buy it!!!.......2003-09-12

This is a great cd! Very lively at times; very mellow at other times - but all tracks are wonderful interpretations of traditional songs by highly talented musicians....and who can argue with the price? BUY THIS CD if you are at all into this type of music!

Average customer rating: Voices Full of Emotion Sound quality A Trip to Soviet Russia Good Value Good, but not perfect

Russian Favourites Manufacturer: Naxos ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Vocal & Song | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music Russia | Far East & Asia | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Modern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Folk Songs | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Marches | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music Classic Big Band | Swing Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music CDs Under $7 | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music $6.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Similar Items: Best of the Red Army Choir Music of Russia Balalaika: Russia's Most Beautiful Songs Soviet Army Chorus & Band Russian Cossack Music from the Urals ASIN: B00000145A Release Date: 1996-04-23

Tracks:

1. Farewell Of Slavianka
2. O, Field, My Field - Polyushko-pole
3. We Are The Red Cavalry
4. There, Far Away, Beyond The River
5. The Sacred War
6. There March The Soldiers
7. In The Forest By The Combat Line
8. The Sun Set Beyond The River
9. Chorus Of Soldiers From The Opera 'Decembrists'
10. Volga Boatmen's Song - Ey ukhnem
11. Troika
12. The Cliff
13. Hey, There's The Village
14. The Volga Burlack's Song
15. Dark Eyes - Ochi Chernye
16. The Brave Don Lads
17. On The Road - A Soldier's Song
18. Moscow Nights

Customer Reviews:

Voices Full of Emotion.......2005-12-19

Once you hear this chorus...whether under the Red Army Choir or Soviet Army Choir banner...you will be addicted. I certainly am. This is not the best disc available on Amazon, but it is unique in that it showcases all Russian songs (since the chorus was a "national" choir, recordings done in London, Paris, etc. frequently contain songs from other countries). And while there may be better and more professional recordings, of this choir and more professional bands, these soldiers succeed in achieving a wide range of color with their vocal talent on this recording. A great bargain.

Sound quality.......2004-07-06

The songs that are chosen on this CD are excellent. The problem, the sound recording is not great. It is clear, but when the choir sings in a low tone, it is simply cannot be heard.

A Trip to Soviet Russia.......2004-03-18

In the 1970's, it seemed that defectors from the USSR made headlines in American newspapers every day. When a dancer defected, it was always believed that artistic freedom was the cause. When writers defected, it was due to the controversy surrounding their works. Athletes were usually viewed as wanting a taste of the good life, but when the Red Army Choir defected, it was a sweet victory for the west. These people were the symbol of all the USSR stood for and sang anthems praising the Soviets, yet they longed for freedom. We loved it when they defected.

Even though many of the songs performed by the ensemble praised the virtues of the Soviet Union, western audiences love the group. No it was not due to be soft on Communism. The group had a sound that was addictive and possessed terrific musical gifts, all of which can be found in this recording.

Listening to this recording is almost nostalgic now that the Soviet Union is no longer, but the recording has a certain appeal. It includes all the favorites including Meadowlands (Polyushku pole), Dark Eyes, Moscow Nights, and the Volga Boatman's Song, probably the best piece on the recording. The ensemble performs well together, the band give the music a distinct sound, and while the soloists are not perfect, the imperfections somehow seem appropriate.

There are more expensive recordings by this ensemble, but this budget CD is not just well worth the price, it is actually one of the best available.

Good Value.......2003-11-03

Considering the number of classic songs and the price, you really can't go wrong here. like another poster, i was a bit dissapointed by some very low music in some selections. but for the most part, the quality is quite good and the music is a very nice way to begin to understand and learn about the Russian people.

Good, but not perfect.......2003-01-19

This is a very good CD, and the music really captures the power and total authority of the Soviet state. It is very moving music on one hand, and also really reflects the situation of the Russian workingmen living under this tyranny. This CD would get 5 stars, but there are a few portions where the sound is so soft that it cannot be heard, such as at the beginning of the sixth track. This is the only problem with the CD worth noting, the CD is done by the Red Army choir, and the songs are virtually all made of of the huge band & choir, Soviet power music that we all have come to know and love. I do recommend this CD strongly.

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