Listen Here!

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com
The Puerto Rican pianist/bandleader Eddie Palmieri has reigned as "The Sun of Latin Music" for fifty years. He innovated salsa music with his two-trombone La Perfecta groups, and his propulsive piano style combines McCoy Tyner’s power and Thelonious Monk’s dark, chordal shadings. On this CD, Palmieri is backed by his long-time combo, augmented by special guest stars. Six of the ten tracks were written by the maestro, including the evocative trio track, "La Gitana" with guitarist John Scofield. But the highlights of this date are Palmieri’s sizzling takes on four jazz classics. The Dizzy Gillespie hit "Tin Tin Deo" is signatured by David Sanchez's Latin-tempoed tenor. Monk’s "In Walked Bud," dances with a Palladium-era pulse. Horace Silver’s "Nica’s Dream" is graced by violinist Regina Carter's sparkling strings and Nicholas Payton's neoclassic trumpet tones. The Eddie Harris-penned title track, with Michael Brecker's Traneish solo and Christian McBride's bold basslines, shows why Mr. Palmieri’s recording represents the finest in Afro-Cubop. --Eugene Holley, Jr.

Listen Here!,Eddie Palmieri,Concord Records,Jazz,Latin Jazz,New York Salsa,Pop,Salsa,United States of America
Listen Here!
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Big Full Latin Jazz Sound
  • Fabulous Latin Jazz
  • Maravilloso reencuentro con el jazz
  • Listen here!
  • Listen Here to Eddie's Best "Latin Jazz"
Listen Here!
Eddie Palmieri
Manufacturer: Concord Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Latin Music | Styles | Music
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ASIN: B0009J2S98
Release Date: 2005-06-14

Tracks:

  1. In Flight
  2. Listen Here
  3. Vals Con Bata
  4. Tema Para Eydie
  5. Tin Tin Deo
  6. In Walked Bud
  7. La Gitana
  8. Nica's Dream
  9. Mira Flores
  10. EP Blues

Amazon.com

The Puerto Rican pianist/bandleader Eddie Palmieri has reigned as "The Sun of Latin Music" for fifty years. He innovated salsa music with his two-trombone La Perfecta groups, and his propulsive piano style combines McCoy Tyner's power and Thelonious Monk's dark, chordal shadings. On this CD, Palmieri is backed by his long-time combo, augmented by special guest stars. Six of the ten tracks were written by the maestro, including the evocative trio track, "La Gitana" with guitarist John Scofield. But the highlights of this date are Palmieri's sizzling takes on four jazz classics. The Dizzy Gillespie hit "Tin Tin Deo" is signatured by David Sanchez's Latin-tempoed tenor. Monk's "In Walked Bud," dances with a Palladium-era pulse. Horace Silver's "Nica's Dream" is graced by violinist Regina Carter's sparkling strings and Nicholas Payton's neoclassic trumpet tones. The Eddie Harris-penned title track, with Michael Brecker's Traneish solo and Christian McBride's bold basslines, shows why Mr. Palmieri's recording represents the finest in Afro-Cubop. --Eugene Holley, Jr.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Big Full Latin Jazz Sound.......2006-10-15

A quick sampling of the openning track 'In Flight' and you will be hooked. If you are still on the fence about buying this album try the title cut 'Listen Here'. If these two tunes alone do not have you purchasing the album you may have a hole in your soul. This album swings and is great from front to back. Big latin jazz sound with excellent percussions, swinging horn arrangements and Eddie's pianio bring it all together and driving it forward. There is a reason why the man has won seven GRAMMY's. I love this album. If you like jazz or just music with a beat you will not be disappointed.

5 out of 5 stars Fabulous Latin Jazz.......2006-03-26

This is my favorite Latin Jazz album to date. It is true that this is not the typical tropical big band sound. However, if you like variety (the first track includes jazz violin) and sheer musical talent, you should at least listen to the album samples.

5 out of 5 stars Maravilloso reencuentro con el jazz.......2006-01-14

Para muchos, la inesperada vuelta de Palmieri al jazz latino, dejando un poco de lado los ritmos salseros y rumberos, pero sin alejarse demasiado de sus sonidos caribeños más característicos. Es, sin lugar a dudas, una obra maestra del jazz afrocubano y de lo mejor que ha dado este género en los últimos años. Además, cuenta con maravillosas colaboraciones que hacen de este album un disco inolvidable e indispensable para cualquier amante del buen jazz.

Matrícula de Honor para Listen Here y Nica's Dream

5 out of 5 stars Listen here!.......2005-09-29

SIn lugar a dudas el mejor album de Eddie en los últimos años, incluso mejor que "master piece" con el gran Tito Puente. Con un sonido muy latin-jazz os encantará a todos.

4 out of 5 stars Listen Here to Eddie's Best "Latin Jazz".......2005-09-22

With "Listen Here" the "latin monk" Eddie Palmieri explores his jazzier roots with guests soloists and his excellent working band with great sucess. It's fun and upbeat[like Eddie] but it is NOT big band latin jazz. For that turn to Eddie's cd's "La Perfecta" and "Obra Maestra". This cd has more of a small unit jazz flavor with several jazz standards[Monk,Silver] and Eddie originals. Frankly to my ears the originals work better.Regina Carter[violin] burns on "In Flight" and sax player Michael Brecker[who is very ill by the way] cooks on "Listen Here". Listen Here seems to work best with the pared down units in the several formats presented here. Eddie's percussive Monk-like piano playing is particually interesting on La Gitano with great subtle accoustic guitar work by John Scofield. Fans of Eddie's big band latin jazz may be dissapointed or suprised[I was pleasently] but this is Eddie reaching and stretching his art. I hope he cotinues to evolve. Heck he's only 68 years old! Reccommended.
Listen Here!
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • One of his best
  • Gene Harris always 10 stars
  • Top of my jazz stack!
  • This is wonderful!
Listen Here!
Gene Harris Quartet
Manufacturer: Concord Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Bebop GeneralBebop General | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music
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ASIN: B0000006HV
Release Date: 1989-08-28

Tracks:

  1. This Masquerade
  2. Don't Be That Way
  3. I've Got A Feeling I'm Falling
  4. Listen Here
  5. This Can't Be Love
  6. To You
  7. Blues For Jezebel
  8. Sweet And Lovely
  9. Lullabye
  10. The Song Is Ended

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars One of his best.......2007-01-12

Just when you think Gene Harris's legacy can't get any better, along comes this album which will knock your socks off. Definitly one of his best.

5 out of 5 stars Gene Harris always 10 stars.......2005-09-05

In classical music for piano, I think Frederic Chopin is the most inspired composer. His melodies and harmony are the most beautiful ones. Franz Liszt is the greatest virtuose and his music reflects an unbeatable technique. Bach is the analytical, polyphonic, intrincate composer.

For people that do not know Gene Harris, here is my mathematical comparison:

(OscarPeterson)/Liszt = (BillEvans)/Bach = (GeneHarris)/Chopin





5 out of 5 stars Top of my jazz stack!.......2003-03-12

Sometimes I have to wonder where I've been all my life & what I've been doing. Having been around music all my life and having been radio disc jockey for 20 years, how could I have missed Gene Harris? A few weeks ago I was listening to WRTI FM, Temple University public radio out of Philadelphia when the dj played a cut from a Gene Harris cd. I was floored and immediately went to Amazon.com "Music" to look him up. Amazon.com lists 34 cd's by Harris, so how did I miss him all these years? Well, no matter. Now that I've discovered him, all I can say is that this one of the finest jazz pianists I've heard with an equally potent quartet. I only have one other Harris cd to compare this one to (Gene Harris plus 1) and I have to say I like this one the best even though the other is a live performance. The selections are nicely balanced and the group just swings the whole way through the entire album. If you've got company coming or you're just by yourself, this album will fill the bill. I feel certain this will NOT be my last Gene Harris purchase. Right now "Listen Here" is on the top of my jazz stack.

5 out of 5 stars This is wonderful!.......2003-01-28

Gene Harris is a true master of his craft. This quartet makes beautiful music; this group is one of which I want all their recordings (and I'm in process of getting it). The mood of the music is very uplifting! The audio signal is clear, as are all Concord Records I've bought. This quartet consists of Gene Harris on piano (and band leader), Ron Eschete on guitar, Jeff Hamilton on drums, and the late GREAT Ray Brown on bass! All ten tracks are beautiful, beautiful.
The Michael Feinstein Anthology
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Mixed feelings
  • Your love for this superb collection will be here to stay...
  • He's done it again
  • Absolutely 'S WONDERFUL!
  • A beautiful 2 disc CD-another hit for Michael
The Michael Feinstein Anthology

Manufacturer: Elektra / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000065DVH
Release Date: 2002-05-21

Tracks:

  1. Nice Work If You Can Get It
  2. Isn't It Romantic
  3. Swinging On A Star
  4. Ask Me Again
  5. Rhode Island Is Famous For You
  6. 'S Wonderful
  7. Wonder Why
  8. Too Marvelous For Words
  9. Where Do You Start
  10. Theme From The Bad And The Beautiful
  11. Easy To Love
  12. Alexander's Ragtime Band
  13. Who Are You Now?
  14. You're An Education
  15. You Are There
  16. Sophisticated Swing
  17. Love Can Change The Stars
  18. Come Out, Come Out Wherever You Are
  19. Half Of April (Most Of May)
  20. Marianne
  21. They Can't Take That Away From Me
  22. I Love A Piano

Tracks:

  1. That's Entertainment
  2. My Favorite Year
  3. Ten Feet Off The Ground (With Rosemary Clooney)
  4. I Never Felt Better
  5. Someone To Watch Over Me
  6. Kiss Her Now
  7. The Ugly Bug Ball
  8. For You, For Me, Forever More
  9. The Mole People
  10. And So To Bed
  11. You're All The World To Me
  12. Old Friend
  13. Isn't It A Pity (with Rosemary Clooney)
  14. Pattisserie
  15. Open Your Eyes
  16. For Love Alone
  17. I Won't Send Roses/Time Heals Everything
  18. Get Out And Get Under The Moon (with Page Cavanaugh)
  19. My Romance
  20. Love Is Here To Stay
  21. Violin (with Liza Minnelli)

Amazon.com

The line between evangelist and entertainer has always been somewhat indistinct. But as showcased on this 43-track, double-disc collection culled from his '87-'96 recordings for Elektra/Nonesuch/Atlantic, Michael Feinstein's dedication to spreading the gospel of the American song often blurs it beyond recognition. While the singer's pedigree for the task is impeccable (a long-term stint as Ira Gershwin's assistant and early career sponsorship by Liza Minnelli), his interpretations often succeed by playing off a tense axis of fervent emotionalism and a joyous sense of irreverence.

If his readings of romantic standards can sometimes tend toward the precious, they're often balanced here by sheer dramatic power and telling insights ("Isn't It Romantic" fairly bristles with ironic chauvinism) and a few loopy curves ("The Mole People," the Sherman Brothers' "The Ugly Bug Ball," and the previously unreleased "Rhode Island Is Famous for You"). Feinstein's dedicated song archaeology is also showcased on several gems: "Violin," a duet with Liza Minnelli; "My Favorite Year," a rejected ballad for the film of that name; the sublime "lost" Gershwin classic "Ask Me Again."

Sprinkled with live performances (the forum where Feinstein's talents seem most energized) and studio outtakes and featuring a lengthy print interview with the singer, the set chronicles both the pioneering efforts of one of pop music's most successful revivalists and, crucially, the cream of his beloved American songwriters, from stalwarts Gershwin, Berlin, and Porter to later legends like Herman, Styne, Lane, Martin, and Mercer. --Jerry McCulley

Album Description

The definitive collection of performances by the Grammy nominated singer features 43 tracks from 14 albums released by Elektra, Elektra Nonesuch, and Atlantic labels from 1987-1996. Plus 8 previously unreleased live tracks only available here 'Rhode Island is Famous For You', 'S Wonderful', 'Alexander's Ragtime Band', 'I Love A Piano', 'Patisserie', 'Get Out And Get Under The Moon' (with Page Cavanaugh), 'Love Is Here To Stay' & 'Violin' (with Liza Minnelli). 2 Digipacks housed in a slipcase with a booklet. Rhino Records. 2002.

Customer Reviews:

3 out of 5 stars Mixed feelings.......2005-10-05

This album has some GREAT songs on it; sophisticated swing being one of my favorites. However many of the other songs are too operatic and lame. I give three stars but this album is definatly worth it just for some of the better songs.

5 out of 5 stars Your love for this superb collection will be here to stay..........2002-07-18

The magnificently talented Michael Feinstein has made one wonderful album after another for nearly two decades. Now that Elektra and Rhino have put together this anthology, I am blown away by the versatility and diversity in Feinstein's recorded output. Such amazing rare gems, combined with the most beloved favorites in the history of American Popular Song. Assembled with wit, intelligence, and obvious affection on the part of the record company, this set is a keeper. You'll love it!

5 out of 5 stars He's done it again.......2002-07-15

Is there anything this man can't sing? This collection is so varied as to be the definitive collection of songs for any occassion.

This is perfect background music for a dinner party for a whole group but especially for two. Light, romantic and just gorgeous. You just can't go wrong when Michael Feinstein is your musical choice.

Way to go Michael, you've done it again!

5 out of 5 stars Absolutely 'S WONDERFUL!.......2002-06-10

There are very few contemporary performers who can hold their own with the truly great interpreters of American popular song. Michael Feinstein is truly the ONLY performer of the "younger" generation who really understands what these songs are all about. His incredible knowledge of this music, and his enthusiasm and passion for it have fueled his career. Rhino Records has done a truly outstanding job of putting together an anthology that exemplifies why Mr. Feinstein has become so beloved by audiences around the world. The packaging is excellent, and filled with interesting photos and background information about many of the selections.

This collection not only contains all the favorites one would expect, but a neat group of surprises too. I especially love the duets with people like Liza Minnelli and Rosemary Clooney, and the various collaborative efforts with songwriters like Jule Styne and Burton Lane accompanying Michael at the piano.

This collection is a classic to be treasured. Bravo Michael!
Bravo Rhino!

5 out of 5 stars A beautiful 2 disc CD-another hit for Michael.......2002-06-09

I have every CD Michael has ever made and this is by far one of the best ones because of Michael's range in singing and his wonderful singing voice. I love his duets with Rosemary Clooney and Liza Minelli. He is a wonderful performer on this double CD and am looking foward to the next CD.
The Holly and the Ivy: Carols from Clare College
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Simply gorgeous
  • Angelic Music
  • Top list Christmas CD
  • Wonderful Christmas CD
  • traditional, and comfortingly so...
The Holly and the Ivy: Carols from Clare College

Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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  1. Carols From Clare College
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ASIN: B0000041VV
Release Date: 1990-05-30

Tracks:

  1. King Jesus Hath A Garden
  2. Up! Good Christian Folk, And Listen
  3. Gabriel's Message
  4. Donkey Carol
  5. Wexford Carol
  6. Cradle Song
  7. Child In A Manger
  8. Mary's Lullaby
  9. Ding! Dong! Merrily On High
  10. Quelle est cette odeur agreable?
  11. I Saw A Maiden
  12. In dulci jubilo
  13. In The Bleak Mid-Winter
  14. I Saw Three Ships
  15. The Noble Stem Of Jesse
  16. The Crown Of Roses
  17. Jesus Christ The Apple Tree
  18. Omnis mundus jocundetur
  19. Wassail Song
  20. The Holly And The Ivy

Amazon.com

Initially released in 1979, this album built on the success of the legendary Carols for Choirs volumes in establishing John Rutter's name with the wider public, and it gave a strong hint that he was more than just a talented composer-arranger. As the many subsequent releases on the Collegium label have also shown, Rutter is a deeply sensitive and musical conductor, alive to the color of words, always allowing phrases to breathe naturally. The accomplished Clare College Choir features male and female voices, the latter providing a more rounded alternative to those world-famous neighbors in Cambridge. Included are many of Rutter's own easy-listening carol arrangements ("King Jesus Hath a Garden" and "Wexford Carol," for example), plus others by the likes of Vaughan Williams and David Willcocks, while "Donkey Carol" and "Mary's Lullaby" are quintessential Rutter originals. Only a few numbers can be classed (statistically) as all-time Christmas faves--the likes of "The Holly and the Ivy" and "Ding Dong Merrily on High"--but this needn't deter anyone from snapping up what is the perfect album to accompany Christmas pud mixing (preferably by candlelight, imagining the twilight scene in Ely Cathedral's Lady Chapel, whose glorious acoustic graces the sound). --Andrew Green

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Simply gorgeous.......2007-04-10

I bought this album through Columbia mail order, and it instantly became one of my favorite CDs in my collection of over 2000. When it was scratched beyond playability, I immediately re-purchased it. I have almost everything else John Rutter has put out, as well as the Dale Warland singers from the US.
The music is simply ethereal, and the songs are not the overplayed tunes we hear over and over and over.
My two complaints with the album are that some of the tracks are hard to hear because the singing is so quiet and the sound level is uneven between tracks, and some of the tracks have Rutter's cutesy, saccharine arrangements drowning out the singing (Donkey Carol is the protoypical, and one I frequently skip).
However, the album is so beautiful otherwise, with the Wexford Carol, and the nearly inaudible Jesus Christ The Apple Tree, and several other tracks, that I still have to give it a 5 star rating.

5 out of 5 stars Angelic Music.......2007-01-16

Lovely. So classic and ethereal. Perfect with Christmas dinner, or quiet card games by the fire.

5 out of 5 stars Top list Christmas CD.......2006-12-12

The Holly and the Ivy is one of two absolutely must-have Christmas CDs from Clare College. This is a traditional English choir with adult male and female voices, trained in the utmost clarity and sweetness of voice that is rarely found elsewhere in the singing world. Clare College Choir is coupled with a most delightful orchestral score that seamlessly melds voices and orchestra into something surprisingly merry, uplifting, and completely satisfying. There are both familiar and lesser known carols here, and every single one is a joy.

5 out of 5 stars Wonderful Christmas CD.......2006-11-15

Too many people are overwhelmed with the more modern Christmas songs out there today and are unaware of the wonderful music available on CDs like this. John Rutter proves his brilliance in arranging and conducting. The music overwhelms the senses and the joy of Christmas overcomes you as you listen. This is one of the most peaceful Christmas CDs I have ever heard. "Wassail Song" is incredible, and if you are ever in a small vocal ensemble, this song is a must to perform. You will not be disappointed when you purchase this CD.

5 out of 5 stars traditional, and comfortingly so..........2005-08-23

In a world where new is better and change occurs at an ever-increasing rate, it seems logical that seasonal music would be included in the rush toward mass marketing and commercial airplay. It is amazing, but not surprising, that "carols" which extol the virtues of an electrically-illuminated ungulant, or which humourously recall the tragic events surrounding the collision of an elderly woman and another ruminating creature of the forest should be featured so prominently in the playlists of the popular culture.

Tired as I am of such artistic efforts, Rutter's efforts in leading the Clare College Choir and Orchestra on this collection come at the right time and to the right place. This is true and beautiful music of the season: it is performed well and interpreted with Rutter's master's touch. For those of us whose tastes run to the traditional, this is welcome stuff indeed.
Great Operatic Arias
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • A good collection
  • A Musician of Great Dignity and Style
  • Passed the "Opera in English" test with flying colors.
Great Operatic Arias

Manufacturer: Chandos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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  5. Great Baritone Arias

ASIN: B0006SGF1Y
Release Date: 2005-02-22

Tracks:

  1. 'Even Bravest Heart My Swell'
  2. 'I Am The Barber Everyone Wants, I Am!
  3. 'Must I Be Made To Suffer'
  4. 'Look Down, Oh Gentle Evening Star'
  5. 'You Have My Love And My Devotion
  6. 'Oh Wine, Deliver Me From Sadness' - Geoffrey Mitchell Choir
  7. 'Marriage Is Sacred' - I Was Right To Be So Suspicious'
  8. 'Turning My Gaze Upon This Proud Assembly'
  9. 'O Nadir, Best Of Friends'
  10. Billy In The Darbies
  11. 'Though I'm Somewhat Out Of Practice' - Janice Watson
  12. 'Hello, Here's A Soldier Bold' - Janice Watson
  13. 'I Wonder What He'll Think Of Me!'
  14. 'In Visions, Illusions'

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars A good collection.......2007-05-14

Unlike the huge names, collections by Allen are not many - plenty of his opera performances are recorded, but there are only a few collections. My voice teacher recommended I listen to him to understand better how to deliver power without weight, something we've been working on. Yes, it's all in English, but that's fine, and the quality of Allen's instrument comes through very well.

5 out of 5 stars A Musician of Great Dignity and Style.......2005-07-27

Sir Thomas Allen is one of the enduring baritones who has been able to move throughout the operatic repertoire and the recital stage with intelligence, informed characterization, and immaculate musicianship. To have a recording of some of the roles he has inhabited at this point in his career is a gift (this CD was recorded in 2003). To have the added challenge of retaining the stature of the roles while sung in English translations at the request of Chandos is a credit to his abilities and communicative powers.

English is a difficult language to make musical, though saying that abruptly is countered by the fact that some of the most beautiful operas in history are by Benjamin Britten, a composer who truly understood his native tongue and kept it as fluid as the soaring melodies he wrote, as Thomas Allen proves here in 'Billy in the Darbies' from Britten's 'Billy Budd'. It is the other major arias from Korngold to Wagner to Tchaikovsky to Rossini, Bizet, Mozart, Gounod, Verdi, Thomas, Strauss, and Lehar that Allen proves that English translations do not detract at all from the performances!

For those purists who prefer opera sung in the original language (and for those who don't even need supertitles in the opera house!), then this recording may provide a temporary barrier to respecting Allen's singing. But once caught up in the ease with which he moves from style to style and comedy to drama, it is hard not to relinquish old preferences and not be wholly impressed with the beauty of the voice and the warmth and dignity of this fine musician. Highly recommended. Grady Harp, July 05

5 out of 5 stars Passed the "Opera in English" test with flying colors........2005-07-04

For me, the test here was Figaro's Cavatina, from Rossini's Barber of Seville - sung in English, as is this entire compilation of 14 operatic favorites, sung by baritone Sir Thomas Allen. Could he pull it off? Could Chandos pull it off? The answer is an unequivocal, unqualified yes! The secret in singing classics in English, that were written and scored in another language, is in three things: pacing, vocal agility and appreciation for "fit", and what greater test for tongue and timing than Figaro? When you listen to this one song, you will understand why Chandos and its benefactor, Sir Peter Moores have such a passion for their Opera in English series. Sir Allen's voice is a matured unmistakably settled baritone voice that contains a lifetime's worth of understanding of the music and words he imparts through his magnificent delivery. For example, when he sings, Tchaikovsky's "You have my love and devotion" from The Queen of Spades, he delivers a smooth and deeply emotional rendition that lacks nothing in translation. Wagner's "Turning my gaze upon this proud assembly", from Tannhäuser is another example of how fine, full orchestration behind a seasoned voice that waxes eloquent with every phrase, can create a mood of relaxed familiarity with word and music, that may be lacking when sung in another tongue. Great Operatic Arias, serves up a smorgasbord of tunes that are familiar, made more so by the care and attention given to creating a place for the Opera in English series in every home library. The mood here is romantic, relaxed and with few exceptions consistent throughout. If you haven't heard Opera in English, this might be a good way to start, given the fact that the listener gets to sample how different composers might sound in other than German, Italian or French. You might be surprised to discover that when done with care, as is obviously the case here, the sound is about as good as it gets. As an added bonus, the booklet that comes with the CD is full of pictures, libretto in English, and biography that gives us a good insight into history of the singer and his identifying rolls.
Great Operatic Arias
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Good coloratura work by Elizabeth Futral
  • At Last a Solo Recital on CD
  • An Interesting display
Great Operatic Arias

Manufacturer: Chandos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. Diana Montague Sings Great Operatic Arias, Vol. 2
  2. Christine Brewer: Great Operatic Arias
  3. Sweethearts
  4. Pasión!
  5. The Very Best of Régine Crespin

ASIN: B00009AQMF
Release Date: 2003-06-24

Tracks:

  1. Come Take Me In Your Arms
  2. My Soul Is Filled With Love For You
  3. What Are These Tears And Sighs
  4. How I Loved Him!
  5. A Maiden Adorning
  6. He Has Come Back
  7. See Here, Dorabella
  8. Ah! Let me Live In This Dream
  9. He's The God Of Youth And Springtime
  10. The Silver Moon Was Shining
  11. Ain't It A Pretty Night!
  12. Take Me Away To The One I Adore
  13. Oh Sleep, Why Dost Thou Leave Me?

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Good coloratura work by Elizabeth Futral.......2007-05-27

This is an interesting CD from soprano Elizabeth Futral. The theme of this is a set of operatic arias sung in English, not in the original French or Italian or. . . . I'm not sure how sold I am on the concept, but, after all, it's the singing and musicality that is most important. And, by that measure, Elizabeth Futral does very nicely.

The accompanying booklet begins by noting that (page 8) "The voice of the light soprano has enchanted listeners for centuries." Futral's singing is characteristic of this type of voice.

In this era, any coloratura soprano has two challenges: first, to compare with the past generation's astonishingly talented practitioners, well exemplified by Joan Sutherland and Beverly Sill. Second, though, there are some wonderful coloratura sopranos today against whom others will be compared, with Natalie Dessay and Sumi Jo among the most adept. Thus, Futral will almost automatically be compared with such exemplars. I do not think one could say she is the equal of those four just mentioned, but she does not compare badly either.

From the Wikipedia: "In musical notation, the Italian word staccato (literally detached, plural staccatos or staccati) indicates that notes are sounded in a detached and distinctly separate manner, with silence making up the latter part of the time allocated to each note. The rhythm is not affected. Notes identified as staccato should be played or sung abruptly and short." This is worthy of comment, since the "Bell Song" from "Lakme," one of the selections on this CD, features many such notes. Futral sings them well. Her performance in this work is well done (although it is somewhat jarring, again, to hear it sung in English). She begins with a nice high note and a bang up following trill. She displays good agility and features nice technique on staccato notes. Overall, this is well done. Toward the end, which calls for great ornamentation, she seems a bit hesitant at time, but she concludes with a nicely sung high note.

Other examples of her singing. From Handel's "Alcina," she sings "Come take me in your arms." Her voice is a light, standard coloratura voice (although not all coloratura sopranos have such a voice, of course). She displays considerable agility, a decent trill, and good ornamentation. There is a bit of harshness on a high note toward the close, but hardly fatal to the overall positive effect of her singing.

From Donizetti's "Linda di Chamounix," there is "My soul is filled with love for you" (otherwise known as "O luce di quest'anima"). Her version is not too shabby when compared with such greats as Sutherland and Jo. The cabaletta shows off, again, her agile voice. Good staccato high notes. Nice trills and a well nailed final high note.

Then there is the charming "Son vergin vezzosa" from Bellini's "I Puritani," here entitled "A maiden adorning." Again, nice agility, good trills, well done florid singing technique. While there is some harshness in the penultimate high note, overall, well done.

In short, Futral adds to a currently rich supply of coloratura sopranos, and compares well with the best of them.

5 out of 5 stars At Last a Solo Recital on CD.......2005-03-19

Elizabeth Futral is one of those rare sopranos who seems to put pacing of her career, care of the voice, and commitment to repertoire range ahead of the too early media blitz that can hamper a singer's career. Clearly she has it all - beauty of voice, beauty of physical presence, fine acting skills, intelligence, and interpretive insights.

Having seen her Cleopatra in LA Opera's GUILIO CESARE and in SF Opera's production of Previn's STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE put her high on the list of important new sopranos. This rather strange recording gives samples of her foray's into all styles from Handel to Previn and does a fine job in capturing the beauty of her phrasing and quality of her seamless soprano voice. It is somewhat distracting to place a first recital recording before the public being sung entirely in English, especially for those who are unfamiliar with Futral's gifts. But credit Chandos with the courage to try something different, something that may introduce new audiences to the opera field.

Surely after the recent successes of Futral performances in the opera houses more recordings will follow. Meanwhile this is a tasty sampler of just how versatile - and special - Elizabeth Futral is. Grady Harp, March 05

4 out of 5 stars An Interesting display.......2003-07-23

Coloratura-soprano Elizabeth Futral is a remarkable artist with a beautiful instrument and a most impressive technique. Her appearences in record stores are mostly on lesser known and up and coming labels such as Opera Rara and CHANDOS; with a few performances on DG.

This CD has an unusual semi-personal package. Duets, trios and quartets are featured. The title of the program is called Great Operatic Arias which seems rather broad for a soprano recital disc.

Futral sings well as always, however the content seems to lack a bit of intricacy and polish. Each aria, duet etc leaves you wondering whether or not a bit more time could have been put into this. The arias range from baroque to 20th century; covering four languages.

The entire program is performed in English and this is interesting... Although some of the arias just sound plain strange in English! It is a very nice thing to actually completely and instantly understand what is being sung. I was most impressed with the CHANDOS Lucia di Lammermoor. Futral probably gave her best performance on record in that role. She is astonishingly good on that recording. Her mad scene is awesome!

Overall this is a pleasing recording and Futral dazzles her listeners with her crystal clear high notes and vibrant tone. I look forward to more recordings of her. Hopefully she'll have a chance to record some more opera in its original language. I think that its time for a new Puritani or Sonnambula. Wouldn't she be the perfect candidate?
Vaughan Williams - Sir John in Love / Hickox, Northern Sinfonia
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Pros & Cons for both versions
  • Five for the work ,for Hickox at least four stars!
  • Sir John's love is more impressive the first time around
  • Five stars, but not the only choice.
Vaughan Williams - Sir John in Love / Hickox, Northern Sinfonia
Ralph Vaughan Williams , Richard Hickox , Anne-Marie Owens , Sarah Connolly , Northern Sinfonia and Chorus , Brian Bannatyne-Scott , Donald Maxwell , Roderick Williams , Susan Gritton , Matthew Best , Mark Padmore , Stephen Varcoe , Stephan Loges , John Bowen , Richard Lloyd-Morgan , Laura Claycomb , Henry Moss , and Mark Richardson
Manufacturer: Chandos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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  3. Vaughan Williams: Hugh the Drover
  4. Vaughan Williams: The Pilgrim's Progress: A Bunyan Sequence
  5. Vaughan Williams: Sir John In Love

ASIN: B00005M0ER
Release Date: 2001-07-24

Tracks:

  1. Act I: Orchestral introduction-What hoa, what hoa
  2. Act I: Ahem
  3. Act I: This is my father's choice
  4. Act I: How now, what does Master Fenton here?
  5. Act I: Vere is dat knave Rugby?
  6. Act I: Episode
  7. Act I: How now, mine Host of the Garter
  8. Act I: I spy entertainment in her...
  9. Act I: Wilt thou revenge...?
  10. Act I: Love my wife? I will be patient
  11. Act II: Orchestral introduction-Thine own true knight
  12. Act II: Scene 1: Sigh no more, ladies, sigh no more
  13. Act II: Scene 2: Bardolph! Bardolph, I say!
  14. Act II: Scene 2: Go thy ways, go thy ways, old Jack!
  15. Act II: Scene 2: Sir, my name is Brook
  16. Act II: Scene 2: Ha, is this a vision?

Tracks:

  1. Act III: Scene 1 Interlude: Orchestral introduction-Yet hear me speak
  2. Act III: Scene 1 Interlude: Fair and fair and twice so fair
  3. Act III: Scene 1 Interlude: But listen, good mine Host
  4. Act III: Scene 2: Orchestral introduction-When as we sat in Papylon
  5. Act III: Scene 2: Yonder he's coming
  6. Act III: Scene 2: Come, Master Ford
  7. Act III: Scene 2: Orchestral-introduction-What, John! What, Robert!
  8. Act III: Scene 3: Alas, my love, you do me wrong
  9. Act III: Scene 3: Mistress Ford!
  10. Act III: Scene 3: Ah!
  11. Act IV: Orchestral introduction-Pardon me, wife
  12. Act IV: Scene 1: There is an old tale goes that Herne the hunter
  13. Act IV: Scene 1: Interlude
  14. Act IV: Scene 2: Orchestral introduction
  15. Act IV: Scene 2: The Windsor bell hath struck twelve
  16. Act IV: Scene 2: Ah-Who Comes here?
  17. Act IV: Scene 2: But till 'tis one o'clock
  18. Act IV: Scene 2: Dance of the Fairies
  19. Act IV: Scene 2: But stay! I smell a man of middle earth
  20. Act IV: Scene 2: Nay, do not fly
  21. Act IV: Scene 2: My heart misgives me
  22. Act IV: Scene 2: Stand not amazed

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Pros & Cons for both versions.......2005-08-30

Boito took Shakespeare's Merry Wives, added a little Henry IV (e.g. the Honour Monologue) and shaped, moulded and cut them about to make a libretto that focused tightly on the Fat Knight and was absolutely perfect for what Verdi wanted. Out of it came one of the greatest of all comic operas.

With VW, you get something much closer to the Shakespearean original, teeming with richly drawn characters and all the variety of Elizabethan/Jacobean life bustling past. Falstaff is merely the primus inter pares among them, albeit a huge one. Out of it came a great comic opera. And one that has been too seldom performed, standing in the long shadow of its predecessor.

Vaughan Williams, who was a great admirer of the Verdi piece, knew that comparisons would inevitably be made. (He would also have included his friend, Holst's, At the Boar's Head as a real rival from the Falstaff canon.) But comparisons are invidious. The VW and the Verdi operas are not comparable, either in their intentions or in their music. And both should be allowed to co-exist happily as companion pieces, not as rivals as two great comic operas we're fortunate to have.

Perhaps I protest too much. But the Vaughan Williams is such invigorating, life-enhancing, often ravishingly beautiful stuff that I'd hate to see it slip off the end of the shelf. Verdi is lauded as the great tunesmith, but how many tunes from Falstaff can you recall - Nanetta's last act aria, perhaps, a couple of snippets of Fenton, the final fugue maybe, or Sir John's 'Quand'ero paggio' which is so brief an aria that its original singer had to record it three times in succession to fill a 78 side. Perhaps that's why Falstaff is so badly represented on 78's compared to the other mature Verdi operas. Great music, yes, but singalongaFalstaff had, in his mature operas, ceased to be the composer's intention.

In Sir John in Love, on the other hand, the tunes just pour out one after the other. Which are genuine folksongs and which are VW originals is often hard to tell without a score in front of you (where the composer comes clean). Just listen to the way Dr. Caius' 'Vray Dieu d'Amour' takes over the orchestra or how 'Lovely Joan' (the tune in the trio of the famous Greensleeves Fantasia) heralds Mistress Quickly's arrival and 'Greensleeves' in situ is even lovelier than in the Fantasia. But then listen to the gorgeous tune that accompanies Ann Page's entrance, the wonderful melody for Ford's plea for forgiveness from his wife or the magical chorus that accompanies the arrival of the real bride and groom in the final scene. Those are all VW originals and great ones, to boot.

Choosing between the two performances of the piece on disc, it's a question of swings and roundabouts. This Chandos recording with Hickox at the helm benefits from his direction - a bit tauter, a little more spring to the rhythms than Davies and the choral contributions are as polished as you'd expect from a seasoned choral specialist. The Chandos recording, too, is a bit more up to date in terms of sound, a bit fuller and richer. EMI, on the other hand, probably has the superior cast with the likes of Robert Tear, Felicity Palmer, Helen Watts and Robert Lloyd seeing off their Chandos counterparts. Honours between the two Falstaffs are more even. Neither is ideal in the part. Herincx has the 'fatter' voice: Maxwell on this recording is the more characterful. But a piece like the madrigal that Sir John sings before Ford/Brook's arrival needs more warmth and more steadiness than either of them provide (would Bryn ever consider it as a partner to his Verdi Falstaff?).

It's a tough choice between the two versions. Choose the EMI for the cast (including, by a short head, Herincx's Flastaff). Choose this Chandos set for the conducting, the chorus and the more modern sound.

5 out of 5 stars Five for the work ,for Hickox at least four stars!.......2001-11-09

(Here my review for Davies - EMI "British composers" recording
of this masterwork.)
If you feel that Verdi has beautyfull music but it has a too much thick blood, and you think that beauty must be tensed by reason; You are looking at the right composer.
This opera or musical drama (in the wagnerian sense, cause it is a romantic comedy) makes a very whole unit, the "areas" and the recited-sung recitatives are in funtion of the "dramatic" momentum and inerce of the work. It's incredible how pleasently quick this work is heard, and yes it's very entretaining (I know that's not necesary a virtue for an opera, but here it is).
The music, well, is gorgeous as might be expected from V.W., transitions are well sewn, and the traditonal folk songs add a dash or elizabethian romanticism.
The cast is strong, Hendrix is very suited for the rol, but you may fantacised how well this rol will be portrayed now by Bryn Terfel, It's sad that Hickox not thinck (or did he?)of this in his new recording of this opera (perhaps Chandos not provide him with the budget that Abado's can manage for his new DG. Falstaff recording).
Maybe Langridge will sound more youthfull than Tear, but that is a small detail. Hellen Watts it's spicy and perky Mrs. Quickly, and Gerald English Caius' is is excellent!
Davies captures V.W. orchestration very well with a ADD recording that will cause envy in this days, and the price, is to laugh about.
Treat you and buy this forgotten treasure!

3 out of 5 stars Sir John's love is more impressive the first time around.......2001-08-05

While I generally agree with the review of Ahmed Ismael, I must give the nod to the earlier EMI recording, which has greater depth and spread to the sound. Chandos engineers have practically placed the voices in our laps with a resultant loss of orchestral detail. The work is, of course, lovely but if the ear is fatigued by the sound the myriad beauties cannot make their full effect. If one adds to this the fact that the EMI is a midprice reissue the choice becomes even more clear. Bravo to Hickox and company but no standing ovation this time.

5 out of 5 stars Five stars, but not the only choice........2001-07-26

Vaughan Williams's comic "Sir John in Love" is one of those true opera rarities--an opera whose highlights become more impressive as the music progresses. Indeed, the true highlight of this opera is its final "Windsor Forest" scene in Act IV, where all the action is resolved, and everyone gets their "just desserts."

If this were the first recording of the opera available, it would be easy to recommend it to any VW (or opera!) enthusiast--the orchestral details are abundant and vividly present, the choral contribution is alive and infectious, and the vocal parts are well-presented and clear. However, there is in additional recording, in EMI's British Composer series, conducted by Meredith Davies. While many comparisons are stacked in the new version's favor, there are a few shortcomings that prevent an absolute recommendation.

Where Hickox succeeds over Davies is particularly in the portrayal of Anne Page and her several suitors. Susan Gritton sings more effectively than Wendy Eathorne, while both Daniel Norman (Slender) and Adrian Thompson (Caius) seem more plausible as suitors than Bernard Dickerson and Gerald English, respectively--although overall English makes a more vivid Caius. However, there is no question that Mark Padmore is the better Fenton: as well as Robert Tear sings for Davies, I can't shake the impression that he is wooing an Amazon, and not the girl-next-door Anne.

While the supporting cast is marginally to markedly superior for Hickox, with the Fords and Pages are fairly evenly matched between the two performances, the one clear victory of the Davies version is a significant one. As the title character, Donald Maxwell's Falstaff is no match for Raimund Herincx, either in characterization or in vocal quality. Additionally, the EMI set benefits from a superior recording--there's more of a sense of a performance in a real space, which adds an extra dimension to the rather static performance as presented by Hickox. Occasionally, Hickox also omits some dramatic effects (such as gasps from the onstage characters in Act III and laughter from the chorus in Act IV) which adds to the sense that this is only a "recording" and not a "performance."

All in all, there is much to recommend the new version, but confronted with a choice between this set and the Davies set on EMI, personal taste will have to suffice in choosing between them. [You may want to sample them both before buying either.]
Give Him Your Life
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Jazzy Smooth Vocals!!
Give Him Your Life
We R Perswaded
Manufacturer: We R Perswaded
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music
GospelGospel | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | R&B | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | R&B | Indie Music | Stores | Music
ASIN: B00005RHEQ
Release Date: 2001-10-06

Tracks:

  1. Intro
  2. All RIght
  3. Happiness
  4. Give Love
  5. Give Me A Clean Heart
  6. Waiting
  7. Brand New Life
  8. I'm Leaning - What A Fellowship
  9. Our Psalm 23
  10. Passing Through
  11. Rock of Ages
  12. Cleanse Me
  13. Give Him Your Life
  14. Thank You
  15. Keep the Faith
  16. Faith Remix
  17. Spirit of the Living God

Album Description

The debut gospel CD by a versatile upcoming group. A cappella, latin flavor, carribean rhythms, hymns, jazz, Urban - it's all here. A MUST HAVE for your gospel collection.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Jazzy Smooth Vocals!!.......2002-03-06

Well I must say that my boyz are doin their thang for the Lord! They have a distinct sound that's all their own! Move over Commissioned, Take 6, Men of Standard and make room for We R Perswaded! The group certainly deserves all the accolades because their flow is Jazzy Smooth! R&B, Jazz, urban/hip-hop, soul, carribean flavors...its all there! My favorite songs are "Give Me A Clean Heart", "Give Love", "Cleanse Me" and Keep the Faith". Do yourself a favor and pick up their CD today. You're gonna luv it!!
Listen Here
Average customer rating: Not rated
    Listen Here
    Gene Harris Quartet
    Manufacturer: Concord Records
    ProductGroup: Music
    Binding: Audio CD

    Bebop GeneralBebop General | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music
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    2. Spirit of 176
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    5. At Last

    ASIN: B00009RDH6
    Release Date: 2003-06-24

    Tracks:

    1. This Masquerade
    2. Don't Be That Way
    3. I've Got a Feeling I'm Falling
    4. Listen Here
    5. This Can't Be Love
    6. To You
    7. Blues for Jezebel
    8. Sweet and Lovely
    9. Lullabye
    10. Song Is Ended
    Listen Here
    Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    • Hip You Will Dig This..
    • Amazon, get her other titles!
    Listen Here
    Carla White
    Manufacturer: Evidence
    ProductGroup: Music
    Binding: Audio CD

    Bebop GeneralBebop General | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music
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    1. A Voice In The Night

    ASIN: B0000014LO
    Release Date: 1995-01-15

    Tracks:

    1. Devil May Care
    2. Harlem Nocturne
    3. Dreamsville
    4. It's You Or No One
    5. Lotus Blossom
    6. It's Only A Paper Moon
    7. Darn That Dream
    8. I've Got Your Number
    9. Dream
    10. Feelin' Good
    11. Listen Here

    Customer Reviews:

    5 out of 5 stars Hip You Will Dig This.........2003-05-28

    Excellent musicianship..beautiful, soulfull singing from Carla. She been around long enough to have lived alot of what she sings. That makes her incredibly honest and very belivable and sincere as an artist.

    The sidemen on this album are all excellent and experianced. I am a sax player by trade and one of my heros (Lew Tobackin) plays
    tenor and Alto flute on this one. Belive me it's a real treat.

    I highly recomend this album, it's usually always in my cd changer. Favorite tunes are Harlem Nocturn, Darn that dream, and Listen Here made me cry when I first listened to it. It will drain your emotions.

    5 out of 5 stars Amazon, get her other titles!.......2000-06-25

    Carla White is a treasure of a singer! Whether it's Strayhorn or Arlen or Frishberg, she can sell a song like many a more popular singer, but she should be better known. Hopefully, Amazon will carry some of her other titles like "Mood Swings" or "Orient Express" and create the stir that such a superb artist needs.

    Pop Music:

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    2. Live at Yoshi's, Vol. 2 [Live]
    3. Lost Treasures
    4. M.F. Horn
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    6. Make Do With What You Got
    7. Masterpieces: 1926-1949 [Box set]
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    9. Music for Two (Bonus DVD) [Live]
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    Pop Music