A Blessing

Ben Ratliff, The New York Times, February 20, 2005
…a real ensemble record … the musicians play in tight, arranged sections … teasing out weird timbres and textures.

Product Description
John Hollenbeck doesn't march to the beat of a different drummer; he is that drummer ... and percussionist and composer.  And maybe that's why interdisciplinary performance pioneer Meredith Monk enlisted John to collaborate on her recent projects and calls him "one of the most brilliant musicians I've had the privilege of working with."

A Blessing, this debut recording of his "Large Ensemble" (he thinks of the 18-piece aggregation as an "ensemble of musicians" rather than a big band) takes big band sound, energy, and force, and uses it a way that doesn't sound dated or generic to create personal, non-genre specific music.

In addition to the fascinating extended melodies and overlaid rhythmic textures that are trademarks of John's approach, varied timbres (including "bowed vibes," English horns, and the human voice as an ensemble instrument) color and illuminate the music. Otherwise quirky juxtapositions of materials and ideas make sense together when John combines them. "April in Reggae" — replete with a quote from "April in Paris" toward the end — is a tune John intended to "swim in between reggae and swing."  His "Folkmoot" honors pianist and radio host Marian McPartland and saxophonist/composer Jimmy Giuffre.

The non-verbal voice of vocally astounding Theo Bleckmann, "the band's secret weapon," permeates the record, ranging from the panting and grunting in "Weiji," to sci-fi outer space sounds whirring by in "Abstinence," to instilling pure and ethereal tone as it intermingles with bassist Kermit Driscoll's bass harmonics at the end of "The Music of Life."  And Bleckman also delivers two texts — a blessing and a prayer — that appropriately enough frame the CD.

John based "A Blessing" on the words to the Irish Blessing that were printed on the mass card at his grandmother's funeral. "While I had seen this text many times, it didn't resonate with me until that moment," recalls John. Likewise, "The Music of Life," with words from Hazrat Inayat Khan, fits that utopian ideal. John describes the piece as "a simple chant-like piece that sums up why we are doing what we are doing. Because we feel that music can change lives, it can heal."

A Blessing

A Blessing,John Hollenbeck Large Ensemble,OmniTone,Avant-Garde Jazz,Big Bands,Experimental Big Band,Jazz,Modern Big Band,Modern Creative,Pop

Average customer rating: big disappointment... What??? A Worthy Album Different, Deeper, and Really Good Great band, only so-so album

A Blessing And A Curse Drive-by Truckers Manufacturer: New West Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Country Rock | Rock | Styles | Music General | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music Hard Rock | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music Southern Rock | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: The Dirty South Southern Rock Opera (Dig) Decoration Day Pizza Deliverance Drive By Truckers - Dirty South - Live at the 40 Watt ASIN: B000E97X6G Release Date: 2006-04-18

Tracks:

1. Feb 14
2. Gravity's Gone
3. Easy On Yourself
4. Aftermath USA
5. Goodbye
6. Daylight
7. Wednesday
8. Little Bonnie
9. Space City
10. A Blessing And A Curse
11. A World Of Hurt

Amazon.com

Known for two big-idea concept albums, Southern Rock Opera (dedicated to Lynyrd Skynyrd) and The Dirty South (a 70+ minute exploration of their Alabama roots), the Drive-by Truckers here go economical with a 45+ minute rock album. Three singers (all guitarists, to boot) ensure that moods shift often, even with every voice bearing a sand-blasted quality that grit-pocks everything. Patterson Hood tackles most of the tunes, sounding like a roughed-up Faces on "Aftermath USA," detailing drugs and deterioration against boogied-up guitars, and sounding a more sensitive side on "Goodbye" and "Little Bonnie" (another in a line of Truckers' funeral tunes). With a barrel-chested croak of a voice, Mike Cooley runs down the rudderless-ness of love and desperation on "Gravity's Gone" and slow, acoustic tenderness on "Space City." The loudest guitarist, Jason Isbell, takes on two tracks: "Easy on Yourself" and "Daylight," where he alternates between wry fury and a yearning pine for more time, more space. Isbell basks in an array of slide-guitar throwdowns, always leaving a signature sound the way Skynyrd's Allen Collins and Gary Rossington did in their glory days. All in all, this is a calmer Truckers set, less ragged and more polished--but rest assured: Their live sets still smoke like their 40 Watt Club DVD from 2005. --Andrew Bartlett

Album Description

You hear about "the greatest band in the world" being dropped on many a group, desperately given this medal in hopes they'll use it to "save rock-n-roll," whatever that means. But no band that has had to suffer under this artificial responsibility has succeeded so triumphantly as Drive-By Truckers. Equal parts back porch historians, runaway drunken firecrackers, and poets of the hard life and how to live it; they came on the scene and set the bar higher for what you can do with the music we love. The songs on this record illustrate the triumphant struggle it is to survive and thrive in this world. It's not only a great record, but an important statement delivered honestly and passionately without any sugar coating or details spared. It's a refinement, a honing, and a focusing of what you've always loved about them, what makes this band the greatest band in the world.

Customer Reviews:

big disappointment..........2007-02-01

after reading glowing reviews of the DBTs I picked up three of their cds. While some of the lyrics are strong, the songs have no melodies whatsoever. Most of the arrangements consist of guitars blaring over a terrible singer. They're reputed to be carrying on the tradition of Skynyrd and the Allmans. But those bands weren't just loud guitars...they had memorable tunes and great singers. DBTs are a huge letdown.

What???.......2006-12-26

I don't get these other reviews. This disc if beautiful, deep, and clearly fits into the direction that the band is heading. There are several poignant songs (check out Gravity's Gone, Goodbye, Daylight, and ESPECIALLY Little Bonnie). To say that these are poorly written songs is unbelievable.
DBT continues to look at real life situations straight in the eye, and lay all of the emotional cards on the table.
Clunkers on this disc? There may be a couple- I don't like Track #1.... And if you like the really hard stuff (Sink Hole, Careless, Lookout Mtn), you might be put off- it might be a bit mellower than what you're used to.
Overall, though, just another masterpiece from the boys from Alabama.

A Worthy Album.......2006-11-17

Most of the reviews here make a whole lot of sense to me, even the bitter ones. This is NOT in the same league as SRO, Decoration Day nor Dirty South. I was expecting something of that calibre but was very dissapointed when I heard it for the first time. Not a heck of alot of depth here, what happened to the songwriting? I couldnt believe all 3 DBT songwriters went into the songwriting tank at the same time. How could this happen to 3 brilliant writers simultaneously?

What I am finding now after about the 50th listen is that although the songwriting is not as interesting, its a fun album to groove to for music itself. The playing on this album is WAY beyond any of there previous outings, it is slick and polished but it sounds great. The guitars duel the drums kick and the vocals are first rate. The songs are good... not great... but you get used to them after a while and find yourself singing along.

Check it out

ML

Different, Deeper, and Really Good.......2006-10-09

Here DBT experiments a little with being mature. Which means more reflection and, this is the key to why many didn't like this album, more 1st person and less stories, the latter of which has made for some of their better stuff. The music is also notably discordant, almost grating in places, but musically so. The strong hooks and licks are still there. Especially the multi-guitar work that helps define their sound.

The songs may be missing that little bit of wrong that their earlier albums have, but there's little playfulness ('Valentine' and 'Gravity's Gone' and places in others). That said, once you listen to this album a few times, you can't turn it off. It's sad, it's different, but it is darn good and chokes me up a little. Not much music can do that to me. Isbell's two songs in particular ('Daylight' and 'Easy on Yourself') really get me. His work usually does (can you seriously sit through 'Outfit' or 'Emmanuelle' without feeling something). I know fans might have been expecting something else, but stop looking for gold and appreciate the gems. Hood contributes the bulk as usual, and a good bulk, but Cooley shows well, especially on 'Gravity's Gone'.

All in all, a must for DBT fans. For others, start with Decoration Day, move onto the others (Southern Rock Opera and Gangstabilly I recommend second) and eventually get to Blessing and a Curse. By then you'll love DBT too much to ignore it.

Great band, only so-so album.......2006-08-28

This album is not nearly as strong as the three that came before it, but it is still pretty solid. I agree with the reviewer before me in regards to Jason Isbell: what was he thinking with these songs? Compared to the classics he contributed to the last two albums, his additions to this album are pretty lame. I can only guess he is planning a solo album and saving his good stuff for that. Mike Cooley has slowly become the best songwriter in the group, and his two songs on this disc rank with its best material. Again, not a bad album, but by DDT standards, it's pretty forgettable.

Average customer rating: John Rutter Collection Typically gorgeous Rutter Wonderful! To sample Rutter's best music, this is the one. The Best

John Rutter Collection Rutter , Cambridge Singers , and London Sinfonia Manufacturer: Decca ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music Similar Items: The John Rutter Christmas Album Requiem & Magnificat/Rutter, Cambridge Singers Be Thou My Vision Distant Land: The Orchestra Collection Gloria: The Sacred Music of John Rutter ASIN: B00006LIEZ Release Date: 2002-11-12

Tracks:

1. For The Beauty Of The Earth
2. The Lord Is My Shepherd
3. All Things Bright And Beautiful
4. Shepherd's Pipe Carol
5. The Lord Bless You And Keep You
6. Open Thou Mine Eyes
7. My True Love Hath My Heart (From Birthday Madrigals)
8. Esurientes (From Magnificat)
9. Gloria Patri (From Magnificat)
10. Out Of The Deep (From Requiem)
11. Pie Jesu (From Requiem)
12. What Sweeter Music
13. A Choral Fanfare
14. A Prayer Of St. Patrick
15. O Be Joyful In The Lord
16. Behold, The Tabernacle Of God
17. O Praise The Lord Of Heaven
18. A Gaelic Blessing
19. Angel's Carol
20. Matthew, Mark, Luke And John (From Five Childhood Lyrics)
21. Sing A Song Of Sixpence (From Five Childhood Lyrics)
22. Go Forth Into The World In Peace

Customer Reviews:

John Rutter Collection.......2007-02-19

This CD is one of several that features Rutter directing his own choir. It has a good cross section of the John Rutter compositions, and is a good starting place for someone who has not heard Rutter's music before. I think you will be "hooked" if you really love choral music.

Typically gorgeous Rutter.......2005-12-20

I love John Rutter's music. Especially the "For the Beauty of the Earth" that is on this CD. Rutter is not the most inventive or varied composer of modern music, but if you have a taste for traditional choral writing with some angelic children's chorus singing, then you will probably share my enjoyment of Rutter's writing. Unfortunately I cannot give this CD 5 stars when it seems there is a drum set tapping annoyingly away on several of the songs. I do not understand this at all and am bothered by it every time I listen to those songs. It's a shame, because otherwise I love the music, and think it is lushly written, and simply but beautifully performed. I would highly suggest listening to sample track 3 before purchasing -- you can hear what sounds like a ride-cymbal right at the very end of the sample. This sound occurs in several of the songs on this recording.

Wonderful!.......2005-12-03

I am a huge John Rutter fan. The lilting melodies, the poignant lyrics and the lush orchestrations make his music not only accessable but also uplifting. This compilation, although drawing from many other previous recordings, is a great composite of his wirk. The sound is exquisite. Even if you own other recordings of this music, this is worthwhile.

To sample Rutter's best music, this is the one........2005-06-30

I purchased this CD as an introduction to the music of John Rutter and went on to purchase many more of his compositions. Still, this remains my favorite collection. It is choral music at its absolute finest. Far from "just church music", this CD has songs of faith, a few Christmas carols, a Celtic song for lovers, and even a child's tune or two. While most of the pieces are peaceful, warm, and thought-provoking, a few are up-tempo and lively. In my opinion, it is a perfectly balanced collection in which one song flows beautifully into the next with no sense of a jarring change of pace. If you have any interest in choral music, begin with the best...John Rutter... and this superb arrangement. Highly recommended.

The Best.......2005-04-29

The John Rutter Collection in my opinion is one of the finest and most perfect works I've ever heard. The Cambridge Singers demonstrates the best vocal discipline and style of any vocal group in the world.

Sidney Vaught

Average customer rating: A Blessing! Great Music

The Blessing John Waller Manufacturer: Reunion ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music Gospel | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music Christian Contemporary Music | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music Praise & Worship | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Glory Revealed: The Word Of God in Worship You Alone Full Attention 33Miles Come Undone ASIN: B000MV8D4W Release Date: 2007-03-06

Tracks:

1. Calling For A Flood
2. Identity
3. The Blessing
4. Still Calls Me Son
5. Ancient Words
6. Breathe On Me
7. Love To Say Your Name
8. While I'm Waiting
9. Something Big
10. Sacred Spaces

Customer Reviews:

A Blessing!.......2007-05-30

I bought this for the title song, "The Blessing," but I'm getting into other songs as well. We CAN choose to be a blessing (or choose otherwise).

Great Music.......2007-03-14

I pre-ordered this CD after hearing The Blessing on my radio. The first time I heard that song I knew I had to own it and now that I have this CD and have heard all of the songs on it, I am so thankful. The song "Love to Say Your Name" will become one of my favorites I can tell. I agree with the artist, I do love to say the names of My Savior. It is not the typical Counselor, Comforter, Prince of Peace version of a song. It says the Hebrew names and their definitions with a great melody. The last song "Sacred Pages" stays with me long after I have turned the music off and am walking through my day.

I look forward to more from John Waller.

Average customer rating: Simply amazing Gloria: Sacred Music of John Rutter

Gloria: The Sacred Music of John Rutter Manufacturer: Collegium ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Rutter | Rutter, John | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Masses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Similar Items: Requiem & Magnificat/Rutter, Cambridge Singers John Rutter: Te Deum and Other Church Music The John Rutter Christmas Album John Rutter Collection Be Thou My Vision ASIN: B000AA4JBG Release Date: 2005-09-20

Tracks:

1. First Movement: Allegro Vivace
2. Second Movement: Andante
3. Third Movement: Vivace E Ritmico
4. All Things Bright And Beautiful
5. Cantate Domino
6. O Clap Your Hands
7. Wedding Canticle
8. The Lord Is My Shepherd
9. A Gaelic Blessing
10. Hymn To The Creator Of Light
11. Arise, Shine
12. Praise Ye The Lord
13. For The Beauty Of The Earth
14. God Be In My Head
15. Open Thou Mine Eyes
16. A Prayer Of Saint Patrick
17. The Lord Bless You And Keep You

Customer Reviews:

Simply amazing.......2007-06-16

If I do make it to heaven, I don't know what it will look like, but I do know what it will sound like - listen to the vocals in the Second Movement: Andante . They are worth the price of the whole CD.......
a miracle, really.

Gloria: Sacred Music of John Rutter.......2007-05-14

Outstanding music and outstanding recording. A musical treat as soon as you put in the disc. This is a must for anyone interested in choral music by Rutter.

Average customer rating: A Listening Treat Be Thoy My Vision CD Really good, but don't listen to it all at once. A must for choral music fans An outstanding collection of Rutter's hymns

Be Thou My Vision Manufacturer: Collegium ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Rutter | Rutter, John | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Classical | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: The John Rutter Christmas Album John Rutter Collection Requiem & Magnificat/Rutter, Cambridge Singers Christmas Star Distant Land: The Orchestra Collection ASIN: B00030ES2S Release Date: 2004-10-01

Tracks:

1. Be Thous My Vision
2. Open thou mine eyes
3. I will sing with the spirit
4. A gaelic Blessing
5. Wings of the morning
6. O be Joyful in the Lord
7. All things bright and beautiful
8. I will lift up mine eyes
9. As the bride groom to his chosen
10. A prayer of Saint Patrick
11. Loving Shepherd of thy sheep
12. Look at the world
13. O clap your hands
14. The Lord is my light and my salvation
15. Lord, make me an instrument of thy peace
16. I believe in springtime
17. God be in my head
18. A Clare Benediction
19. For thy beauty of the earth
20. Thy perfect love
21. The Lord bless you and keep you

Customer Reviews:

A Listening Treat .......2007-03-08

What a delight to listen to this collection of pure Rutter ! The melodic sounds of the Cambridge Singers bring me such pleasure The sheer joyfulness of this music is to me a religious experience of such depth It is superb and will lift ones spirits instantly. highly recommended to all lovers of the English contemporary choral sound and scene,____ not to be missed

Be Thoy My Vision CD.......2007-02-19

My husband sang many of these John Rutter compositions with his church choir, and this CD is perfect since the choir is directed by Rutter, singing his own music. If you love religious music, this will bring tears to your eyes, the choir is "that" perfect.

Really good, but don't listen to it all at once........2007-01-07

I really liked this CD. It really showcases Rutter's knack for religious choral music. Perhaps it helps that I have sung some of his stuff with various groups. However, as with any similar compiliation, the composer's sameness of style and motif becomes apparent. This repetition can become boring on the third or fourth listening. On the other hand, this makes a great reference tool for any choral director or performer. Buy it, however, it's worth it, but don't listen to it all at once.

A must for choral music fans.......2006-09-19

Simply fabulous, 10/10. These are all Rutter-composed pieces, directed by Rutter himself. If you have any interest in religious choral music at all, you must get this album! One of the highlights of my musical life was attending a concert of a University of Maryland choir in which my mom sang, that featured Rutter as a guest conductor. Listening to this album is almost as good! ;-) There are too many good pieces to start naming all of my favorites, but these are some of the best known ones: "Open Thou Mine Eyes", "A Gaelic Blessing", "All Things Bright and Beautiful", "As the Bridegroom to His Chosen", "For the Beauty of the Earth", and "The Lord Bless You and Keep You".

An outstanding collection of Rutter's hymns.......2005-11-22

I sought a recording of Rutter's beautiful hymn, "Wings of the Morning", after we sang this lovely tune in church and this was the only CD I could find that contained it.

This collection includes many of Rutter's church hymns recorded over a period of 20 years performed by The Cambridge Singers, a group of Brits, that are conducted by the composer. Ergo, these performances must be considered definitive.

Many of Rutter's popular hymns are included here. "O be joyful to the Lord" and "All things bright and beautiful", a popular children's hymn done here by adults, follow "Wings of the morning" on tracks 5-7. Others you may have performed in church represented here are "O clap your hands", "Lord make me an instrument of your peace", "For the beauty of the earth", "Look at the world" and "The Lord bless you and keep you" among the 21 assembled hymns.

While The Cambridge Singers, on their Web site, identify themselves principally as an a capella group, I was pleased when I received this CD to find all the hymns supported by a full orchestra, the esteemed City of London Sinfonia. The renditions are uniformly lovely although some listeners may find the singing a bit on the white side lacking brilliance and individuality. Everything is done in keeping with Rutter's score markings and style.

The recording tends to be a little variable given the 20-plus year difference in performances. The most recent copyright listing is 2003, the same year "Wings of the morning" was published. I don't hear an appreciable difference in that recording than the others but still hear some age in older works.

If you seek a Rutter hymn collection you can't go wrong here. You have wonderful English performers mated to the composer in his more popular works. I'd recommend this without reservation to anyone seeking this collection.

Average customer rating: Beautiful A few bright spots, but also some disappointments This CD Deserves SIX Stars! every good adjective Fabulous!

Peace Like a River James Lucas , Janice Kapp Perry , John Rutter , Jean Sibelius , John Tavener , American Traditional , English Traditional , Spiritual Traditional , Mack Wilberg , Craig D. Jessop , Clay Christiansen , John Longhurst , Richard L. Elliott , Daron Bradford , and Meredith Campbell Manufacturer: Mormon Tabernacle ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Rutter | Rutter, John | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Sibelius | Sibelius, Jean | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Tavener | Tavener, John Kenneth | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Mormon Tabernacle Choir | ( M ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music Gospel | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Holiday | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music | General Christmas | Today's Deals | Box Sets | Children's Music | Classical Instrumental | Halloween | Hanukkah | Kwanzaa | Opera & Vocal | Pop Instrumental & Easy Listening | Pop Vocal Similar Items: Consider the Lilies Love Is Spoken Here America's Choir Mormon Tabernacle Choir: The Sound of Glory-Battle Hymn of the Republic Choose Something Like a Star ASIN: B00020H9W0 Release Date: 2004-06-22

Tracks:

1. Sweet Peace
2. Be Still, My Soul
3. Peace Like a River
4. All Things Bright and Beautiful
5. Lord Is My Shepherd
6. This Is My Father's World
7. Wayfarin' Stranger
8. Lord, Make Me an Instrument of Thy Peace
9. Swing Low, Sweet Chariot
10. Deep River
11. Lamb
12. Child's Prayer
13. It Is Well With My Soul
14. Count Your Blessings Instead of Sheep
15. Gaelic Blessing
16. Thou Gracious God, Whose Mercy Lends
17. Come, Let Us Anew

Customer Reviews:

Beautiful.......2007-06-14

This CD is a must have for any Mormon Tabernacle Choir fans. The music is very reverent and gentle, and should also appeal to those not from the LDS church, seeing as how most of the music is common to the wider Christian community. This CD is a fantastic addition to any music collection.

A few bright spots, but also some disappointments.......2007-01-19

It Is Well With My Soul is one of my favorite-favorites and that is the main reason why I bought the CD; it turned out to be a huge let down on this album, they rearranged it so much that I almost didn't recognize it. Be Still My Soul is another reason why I bought it and it's good, but not great. Swing Low Sweet Chariot is where it starts to get good. The last two songs "Thou Gracious God, Whose Mercy Lends"
and "Come, Let Us Anew" are very good reasons to buy this CD, they each have truely powerful passages and make the CD worth having. The Mormon Tabernacle Choirs 2006 release entitled Then Sings My Soul is by far the best that I've heard from them.

This CD Deserves SIX Stars!.......2005-11-05

However, the rating scale has a limit of five. I own over 700 CDs of virtually every type of music. Peace Like A River belongs in a class by itself! I've never written a review before but, after listening to this STUNNING performance by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, I feel compelled to share my praise with that of the five other reviewers. If I were limited to one word, I would use the word "SUPERB" to describe this beautiful and moving CD. SIX stars for Peace Like a River! BRAVO!!!

every good adjective .......2005-08-06

This album is all beauty and solace. The singing is pristine, the arrangements lush and often stirring--never saccharine. As with the previous reviewer, my first listing of "Peace Like a River" brought me to tears (especially "Peace Like a River," the sopranos in "Swing Low," and the bagpipes in "Thou Gracious God"). Buy this one.

Fabulous!.......2005-05-29

The perfect recording to help you recover from a long, hard day. Showcasing the MTC's "new" sound in contemporary choral arrangements with its own orchestra and conductor, "Peace Like a River" brought tears to my eyes in selection after selection during my first listen -- and I'm not normally an emotional person! The title song together with "Deep River," "Swing Low" and "Be Still My Soul" are alone worth the cost of the recording. Get this one!

Average customer rating: Perfect starter CD!

America's Choir Mormon Tabernacle Choir Manufacturer: Mormon Tabernacle ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Beethoven | Beethoven, Ludwig van | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Fugues | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Mormon Tabernacle Choir | ( M ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music Gospel | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Oratorios | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Folk Songs | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Hymns | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General Christmas | Holiday | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music General Christmas | Holiday Music | Special Features | Music Similar Items: Peace Like a River Rock of Ages: 30 Favorite Hymns The Mormon Tabernacle Choir's Greatest Hits: 22 Best-Loved Favorites Sing, Choirs of Angels! Songs from America's Heartland ASIN: B0002CX1LQ Release Date: 2004-07-13

Tracks:

1. Fanfare Alleluia/Praise To The Lord, The Almighty
2. Come, Thou Fount Of Every Blessing
3. This Is My Father's World
4. Hallelujah Corus
5. Fugue In C Major
6. Come, Come, Ye Saints
7. O Home Beloved
8. Come Let Us Anew
9. Bound For The Promised Land
10. Shenandoah
11. Cindy
12. Danny Boy
13. Climb Ev'ry Mountain
14. Battle Hymn Of The Republic
15. Praise TO The Lord, The Almighty (Reprise)
16. God Be With You Till We Meet Again

Customer Reviews:

Perfect starter CD!.......2005-02-12

I'm surprised that no one has reviewed this CD yet. Released in conjuction with the Nationally-released PBS documentary "America's Choir" - this album is a perfect starting place for people who wish to have a sampler of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. Serving as both a latter-day "greatest hits" and a stand alone album, this CD gathers six tracks from the Choir's recently released albums "Consider The Lilies," "Spirit Of America" and "Peace Like A River" and adds TEN brand new tracks recorded specially for this project, creating a perfect sampler of both the Choir's magnificent history and it's current sound. It highlights the strengths of the Choir's repetoire, from well-known hymns ("Come Thou Fount Of Every Blessing") to patriotic standards ("Battle Hymn Of The Republic") to folk songs ("Shenandoah," "Bound For The Promised Land") and even some surprises, like the traditional Welsh anthem "O Home Beloved" and the "Fugue In C Major (Jig)" for organ and orchestra. A wonderful, wonderful CD, with startling changes in mood and tempo, but with the unifying artistry of the Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Sqare.

Average customer rating: This album OWNS!! Metal Church's Greatest ...............Near Perfection!!!!!!!!!!!! obra maestra The Best Metal Church album EVER!!! One of their better discs, but stilll inconsistent

Blessing in Disguise Metal Church Manufacturer: Elektra / Wea ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music General | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music Thrash & Speed Metal | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Hard Rock | Hard Rock & Metal | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Hard Rock | Hard Rock & Metal | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music 4-for-3 Hard Rock & Metal | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Pop | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Rock | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Dark Metal Church A Light in the Dark The Weight of the World No Place for Disgrace ASIN: B000002H6H Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

1. Fake Healer
2. Rest In Pieces (April 15, 1912)
3. Of Unsound Mind
4. Anthem To The Estranged
5. Badlands
6. The Spell Can't Be Broken
7. It's A Secret
8. Cannot Tell A Lie
9. The Powers That Be

Customer Reviews:

This album OWNS!!.......2007-05-26

Not sure what else to say, amazing thrash album, LISTEN TO IT!!

Metal Church's Greatest ...............Near Perfection!!!!!!!!!!!!.......2006-10-27

After three years and two member changes Metal Church returns with their greatest and most inspirational album. This is their peak as a thrash band with wonderful arrangements and musicianship. With 'Blessing In Disguise' Metal Church leaves most of their peers in the dust. Each song is executed with precision and with a new vocalist at the helm (Mike Howe)the band seems to fit much better together. The debut was good, 'The Dark' was a step above but 'Blessing' is a masterpiece. Hands down one of the top metal albums of the 80's. Great lyrics with awesome guitar work not to metion tight drumming. With 'Blessing In Disguise' you get the whole package............but..... there is one downside, the mix of the album is lacking. The instruments sound clear but the volume is so low you really have to make your sound system work for it. But in the end even the mix can't darken the brightness of Metal Church's 1989 opus 'Blessing In Disguise'.

obra maestra.......2005-08-04

El mejor albun de la banda norte americana con muy buenas letras y unos arreglos de guitarras majistrales. Un disco muy recomendado

The Best Metal Church album EVER!!!.......2005-05-22

This is by far more superior than even their 2nd best(Self-Titled), however I really wish the mastering process was better. The production was excellent as it was done by veteran Terry Date(Overkill; Pantera)who established himself as a powerhouse producer. But the sonic levels in the mastering could be brought up a few notches to at least match the sound quality of their debut. This being considered their best album, one has to wonder how come it took David Wayne & Kurdt Vanderhoof to leave this band to make such a great album? Mike Howe is my favorite MC vocalist and it's a damn shame he didn't return for "Weight of the World"

That's all as there are alot of other reviews discussing the lyrical content and length of songs, so I won't bore you with those details.

I gave it 4 stars because of the weak mastering process

One of their better discs, but stilll inconsistent.......2004-10-22

(3.5 stars) The problem with Metal Church - who here are sort of pioneering the kind of thrash/power hybrid that bands like Nevermore and Blind Guardian are moving plates with today - is consistency. On their previous album _The Dark_ with ex-screecher David Wayne, they managed to pen one of the most vicious metal songs ever written ("Watch the Children Pray") surrounded by almost an entire album's worth of mostly forgettable songs. Here, they loosen the arrangements a bit, eschewing none of the theatrics, but end up often stretching their songs to untenable lengths. "Anthem to the Estranged", "The Spell Can't Be Broken" and "Rest In Pieces" are just too long and not interesting enough musically to justify their length. Even at my most devoted stage of metal worship, they often fell victim to my fast-forward button. However at their best, with the epic single "Badlands" and the pounding, straight-ahead thrasher "Cannot Tell A Lie" you can really see this band operating at the peak of its powers. "Badlands" is an especially fantastic, driving, uptempo track, with the snake-charmer riff acting as an effective tension-building counterpoint to a fantastic, stick-to-your-brain-for-weeks chorus. What's really interesting about it is the lyrics; instead of attacking politics or medicine they simply portray the inner turmoil of a nameless traveller trying to survive in some hellish place - like a much harder version of "Horse With No Name". Elsewhere the lyrics tend to inspire ambivalence; it's important to remember at this point in metal's evolution it was just nice to hear a metal band sing about something other than scoring hot chicks. This was lead singer Mike Howe's first album with the band and he does some great work here; more versatile than Wayne, he would go on to sing on the bulk of their discography. A respectable disc from an always respectable band, but comes with some fat to trim.

Average customer rating: REAL MUSIC White bread, well-baked in spots This is the one! A Must for the Sabbath A Must for Sabbath

Mormon Tabernacle Choir: The Sound of Glory-Battle Hymn of the Republic Manufacturer: Telarc 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 General | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Mormon Tabernacle Choir | ( M ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Gospel | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Holiday | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music | General Christmas | Today's Deals | Box Sets | Children's Music | Classical Instrumental | Halloween | Hanukkah | Kwanzaa | Opera & Vocal | Pop Instrumental & Easy Listening | Pop Vocal Similar Items: Rock of Ages: 30 Favorite Hymns The Mormon Tabernacle Choir's Greatest Hits: 22 Best-Loved Favorites God Bless America More Greatest Hits: 18 Best Loved Favorites Songs from America's Heartland ASIN: B00005Q5LT Release Date: 2001-10-23

Tracks:

1. Praise To The Lord, The Almighty
2. Lead, Kindly Light
3. Arise, O God, And Shine
4. All Things Bright And Beautiful
5. Sweet Hour Of Prayer
6. The Lord Is My Shepherd
7. The King Of Love My Shepherd Is
8. All Creatures Of Our God And King
9. Take Time To Be Holy
10. The Spirit Of God Like A Fire Is Burning
11. Simple Gifts
12. Battle Hymn Of The Republic
13. Abide With Me; 'Tis Eventide
14. Sing Praise To Him
15. Come, Thou Fount Of Every Blessing
16. I Need Thee Every Hour
17. Love Divine, All Loves Excelling

Customer Reviews:

REAL MUSIC.......2007-01-16

THIS IS MUSIC YOU CAN LISTEN TO EVERY DAY AND ENJOY OVER AND OVER AGAIN.

White bread, well-baked in spots.......2005-08-12

The Mormon Tabernacle Choir that performs on this disc is a tightly-knit, well-conducted unit, and some of the tracks on the disc border on the ethereal. "Lead, Kindly Light," "Sweet Hour of Prayer" (in parts) and "The King of Love My Shepherd Is," for example, touch the soul and bring tears to the eyes.

However, on other arrangements the choir sounds like a group of white folks far removed from the remainder of humanity. For example, the opening track, "Praise to the Lord, the Almighty," and also "All Creatures of Our God and King" sound rote and perfunctory, like a group of elementary school students (with very fine voices, to be sure) going through the paces of a daily sing: elevator music on a grand scale. At the opposite extreme, sudden dynamic shifts in other tracks sound pretentious. The final bars of "All Creatures of Our God and King" suggest an attempt at a grand finale, but lack even a hint of majesty or passion. The choir lacks any apparent understanding of the Shaker spirit in "Simple Gifts" --- rather like Lawrence Welk playing Bob Marley. (Not that I've ever seen a Shaker in dreadlocks.) "Battle Hymn of the Republic" begins majestically, but turns into a caricature, and then reverts to a semblance of glory (except for a brief flirtation with a minor key).

The high praise lavished on this disc by other reviewers is no surprise: It is of very high quality for what it is. The choir offers a lovely sound. However, more than half the tracks are seriously flawed, and the musicianship is sufficiently peculiar on the whole as to lower the rating considerably.

This is the one!.......2002-08-24

If you want to hear the best of the best, this CD is it. These hymn arrangements are just beautiful and very touching. I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys the choir and wants to feel a little closer to heaven. The choir seems to sing literally with one voice and you feel like they are singing just for you. Congratulations to the new conductor, Craig Jessop and all those who contributed to the quality that went into producing this CD.

A Must for the Sabbath.......2002-04-17

I LOVE IT!!! What better way to enjoy the Sabbath than to sing of the Lord's Praises with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir? This album is just the ticket! It's very powerful, and uplifting.

What? You mean I can only give this album five stars? But that doesn't even BEGIN to do it justice!

I love it. Truly a masterpiece!

A Must for Sabbath.......2002-02-05

If you only own one Mormon Tabernacle Choir CD, this is the one. It has creative arrangements of many favorite hymns, as well as the best recording of the Wilhousky Battle Hymn arrgmt that I have ever come across. The only downer: it has (another) recording of Simple Gifts, which has been beat to death by choirs in the last decade.

I especially love the 'Glory' pieces on it: Full of timpani, brass, and alleluias- one of those discs you turn all the way up and direct the stereo when noone is looking. I hope my neighbors like it too; they probably hear it quite a bit.

Average customer rating: If you are only going to buy one Topley CD.... A wonderfull Surprise What a Voice A must-have. Tell All Your Friends

Mixed Blessing William Topley Manufacturer: Mercury Nashville ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Black River Sea Fever Feasting With Panthers Spanish Wells Prince of the Deep Water ASIN: B000009CME Release Date: 1998-07-07

Tracks:

1. Wake Up (Your Dream Sounds So Sad)
2. Sycamore Street
3. Song Of A Seabird
4. Sophia
5. (I Don't Wanna Go) Uptown
6. Drink Called Love
7. Soul Love
8. Sweetheart
9. Highway 5
10. Delta Rain
11. Hurricane Room

Customer Reviews:

If you are only going to buy one Topley CD...........2002-09-08

I have to be honest, I did not buy this CD because I have purchased every The Blessing and William Topley offering. However, if this is your first introduction to this artist, this is a great place to start. William Topley may be one of the most creative and enticing artists of the 90's. His stylistic range is amazing. The problem with every compilation CD is they are more focused on the commercially successful songs. Start with this CD and then treat yourself to the rest of his offerings. You will not be disappointed.

A wonderfull Surprise.......2002-02-01

I found William Topley after a sugestion from Peter
Gammons,ESPN's and Baseballs best writer.His voice blew me away.
Delta rain is an exceptional song.What a breath of fresh air!I
can't wait to see him live.

What a Voice.......2001-09-03

I first heard William Topley when I borrowed this cd from a friend. After I returned it I found that I could not live without it. I had to buy my own copy. I listened to it for three straight months before I was willing to let other cds share the airtime. Three years later this album still gets more than its fair share of airtime in my house, car, and job. Since then, my Topley collection has grown and now includes The Blessing as well.

The first thing you notice when you play this album is the deep, throaty voice of Topley. It's half hypnotic and half addicting. You can hear passion dripping from each word that he sings. It turns the song's lyrics into something more than words --it turns them into feelings. It's more than the way he sings the words but how he sings them as well. In the same song he'll sing a phrase really fast and staccato like, and then slows down the next phase by holding each note. This keeps things interesting, and turns his voice into a real living instrument.

The style of the album ranges from the reggae feel of "Soul Love" to the bluesy "Sycamore Street". My favorite songs of the album are "Song of a Seabird" and "Highway 5", but don't ask me which one I'd like to drop because these are all keepers. Very rarely does one find an album that you love most of the songs on it, but I love every single note of this album. If you like a gravelly voice that can sing with feeling, a good supporting band, and just plain good music, then check out Topley. You won't be disappointed.

A must-have........2001-05-30

The song Delta Rain (absolutely beautiful song) is what enticed me to buy this album. I liked the song so much, that I didn't care if the rest of the album was any good -- and that's where I got a pleasant surprise -- it's also great! My husband also loves the cd, so we have to fight over who gets it in their car. If you like Robbie Robertson (particularly his first solo album), then you'll like William Topley. Kind of blues-y, kind of not... hard to categorize, but worth getting. You'll be hooked the first time you hear it (especially track 10).

Tell All Your Friends.......2000-12-13

Buy all his CD's - tell all your friends to buy his CD's - and especially, go see him perform. He's outstanding.

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