Dame [Import]

1. Luna Sin Tí

2. Dame Toma

3. Abrazado a Tu Ausencia

4. Siento, Te Extraño

5. Yo No Sé lo Que Daría

6. Beso y una Flor

7. Si Ella Supiera

8. Te Quiero, Te Quiero

9. Fuerza de Tu Amor

10. Único

11. Porque Yo Te Amo

Dame,César,Universal,Latin Pop/Rock

Average customer rating: Opera for Aficianados as well as Newbies superb! beatiful music Best Opera CD ever Rapture

Rapture: Opera's Most Heavenly Moments Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Academy of Ancient Music | ( A ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra | ( B ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music London Philharmonic Orchestra | ( L ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music National Philharmonic Orchestra London | ( N ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra | ( V ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Deutsche Grammophon: Music | Specialty Stores | Music Similar Items: The Most Famous Opera Duets The Most Famous Opera Arias The #1 Opera Album Amor--Opera's Great Love Songs The Best Opera Album in the World...Ever! ASIN: B00006L3K2 Release Date: 2002-10-08

Tracks:

1. Casta Diva - Renee Fleming
2. Barcarolle - Edita Gruberova
3. Ebben? Ne Andro Lontana - Maria Chiara
4. Intermezzo - Herbert Von Karajan
5. Letter Duet - Edith Mathis
6. Che Faro Senza Euridice - Grace Bumbry
7. Va Pensiero - Giuseppe Sinopoli
8. Una Furtiva Lagrima - Gosta Winbergh
9. Porgi Amor - Gundula Janowitz
10. Humming Chorus - Ambrosian Opera Chorus
11. Soave Sia Il Vento - Kiri Te Kanawa
12. Overture (Excerpt) - Philharmonia Orchestra
13. Un'aura Amorosa - Hans-Peter Blochwitz
14. Un Bel Di - Mirella Freni
15. Depuis Le Jour - Montserrat Caballe
16. La Ci Darem La Mano - Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau
17. Quando Le Sere Al Placido - Placido Domingo
18. Mir Ist So Wunderbar - Lucia Popp

Tracks:

1. Flower Duet - Joan Sutherland
2. The Pearl Fishers Duet - Bryn Terfel
3. Lascia Ch'io Pianga - Kiri Te Kanawa
4. Prelude - Bayerisches Staatsorchestra
5. O Silver Moon - Renee Fleming
6. When I Am Laid In Earth - Tatiana Troyanos
7. Miserere - Placido Domingo
8. Vissi D'arte - Mirella Freni
9. Intermezzo - Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra
10. Softly Awakes My Heart - Grace Bumbry
11. Ombra Mai Fu (Largo) - Bryn Terfel
12. Pilgrim's Chorus - Chorus Of The Bayreuth Festival
13. Ruhe Sanft - Kiri Te Kanawa
14. Flower Duet - Teresa Berganza
15. Entr'acte - Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra
16. Mira O Norma - Marilyn Horne
17. Hochsten Heiles Wunder - Chorus Of The German Opera Berlin

Customer Reviews:

Opera for Aficianados as well as Newbies.......2007-06-11

If you are looking for peaceful, beautiful music this is for you. It is a delightful mix of some of opera's most memorable moments. Long time opera fans will be familiar with most of the arias and newcomers to opera will recognize music that has become identified with movies and commercials.

superb! .......2007-05-12

If you love wonderful operatic moments then this cd is a great buy for all of the wonderful and spectacular music on it. You get two cds for the price of one great opera cd, and all of the talented singers that were taken and put on these tracks do definate justice to all of the composers listed. A great cd to add to your collection especially if you are an aspiring singer or a student in music. Absolutely Fantastic!

beatiful music.......2007-02-23

former reviews are no exaggeration, this is the most beautiful music I have come across. I have many opera CDs but this is one I never tire of.
I listen to the CD everyday and it is always soothing, uplifting and inspiring. I wish I could find another as wonderful.

Best Opera CD ever.......2007-02-16

I have orderd plenty of classical CD's and DVD's on this webside.
Most were phantastish but this one is the best.
I listen so often to this CD that it should have grooves.
I never get tired of it.
I recommend this CD highly.
Roswitha

Rapture.......2007-01-24

Wonderous---Melodious----
This compilation of Opera's finest moments is positively wonderful!!!!Unquestionably the best buy I have made in Opera Music..No kidding,I have trays full of CDs covering every facet of Opera,but none as beautiful...A full 2 1/2 hours of the best of the best....Heavenly Moments says it ALL...I vote 6 stars!!!!!

Average customer rating: Disney's greatest hits, volum 3 Timeless Disney Music Disney songs are the best Great Disney Music Not as good as Vol 1 and Vol 2

Disney's Greatest 3 Various Artists Manufacturer: Disney ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Children's Music | Styles | Music Disney | Children's Music | Styles | Music Disney Records | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music $9.99 and Under | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Pop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Soundtracks | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music $9.99 and Under | Prices | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Disney's Greatest, Vol. 2 Disney's Greatest, Vol. 1 Disney's Greatest Vol. 2 Disney's Greatest, Vol. 1 Disney's Greatest Hits 1 & 2 ASIN: B00006EXKT Release Date: 2002-08-20

Amazon.com

Cynical types will accuse Disney of milking the "greatest" concept until it's drier than Tinkerbell's fairy dust ("Supercalafragilisticexpealidocious," "Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Da," and "Heigh Ho" were hits off of Vol. 1; "Bare Necessities," "It's a Small World," and "Some Day My Prince Will Come" stole the show on Vol. 2), but a glimpse of this installment's track listing is all it'll take to squash their suspicions. Once again running reverse-chronologically, Vol. 3 opens with Jonatha Brooke's gorgeously achy ballad "I'll Try," from 2002's arguably not-so-great Return to Neverland, and gradually reaches back through the years to re-raise the curtain on Toy Story 2 ("When She Loved Me," performed by Sarah McLachlan), The Lion King ("Can You Feel the Love Tonight"), Mary Poppins (Julie Andrews's classic "A Spoonful of Sugar"), Pinocchio ("Give a Little Whistle"), and a bundle of treasured others, bottoming out at 1933's "Who's Afraid of the Big Bad Wolf" from The Three Little Pigs. Vol. 3 is not without its weak moments--would a G-rated movie-goers' poll produce Beauty and the Beast's "Gaston" or The Hunchback of Notre Dame's "Topsy Turvy" on a hits list? Seems unlikely. Still, the bulk of these tracks are, as the included Little Mermaid song goes, "Part of Your World," and the spread of decades they represent proves their staying power. Don't expect Disney to latch the lid on its inexhaustible archives until a dozen or so of these records, each as strong as the next, beckon you back for more. --Tammy La Gorce

Customer Reviews:

Disney's greatest hits, volum 3.......2007-05-13

This is one of the better volums for kids and for those who are
above 18 but still have some kid in them

Timeless Disney Music.......2007-05-07

Nothing brings sweet recollection of Disney movies like hearing the wonderful songs. In an age where there so much music with no redeeming qualities, these Disney CDs are priceless. Wonderful for the entire family to listen to around the house or in the car while traveling. We can't help but sing along. We love that these are the original tracks from the movies! Wonderful! We now have all three volumes.

Disney songs are the best.......2006-03-18

I love the songs on this volume. I'll Try by Jonatha Brooke is such an amzing somg. I especially bought this CD fort that song but, was pleasantly surprsed by the rest of the playlist.

Great Disney Music.......2006-02-21

I have bought the first 2 volumes of Disney's Greatest Hits and the 3rd volume doesn't disapoint. My 2 young children love to listen to this CD and talk about the movies that they come from. A definate must have!

Not as good as Vol 1 and Vol 2.......2005-09-11

This Disney CD represents the "leftovers" that didn't make it on Vol 1 and Vol 2 of this series. Although it has some of my favorites, I don't listen to the entire CD often. Disney could have done a better job of editing the which sound files should make the cut on this one. Still, it's nice to have all 3 CDs.

Average customer rating: Elegance at the piano VALUE FOR MONEY Good bang for the buck. Really good price.

Piano Favorites Manufacturer: EMI Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Minuets | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music Waltzes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Beethoven | Beethoven, Ludwig van | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Brahms | Brahms, Johannes | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Chopin | Chopin, Frédéric | ( C ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Dvorák, Antonín | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Debussy | Debussy, Claude | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Liszt | Liszt, Franz | ( L ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart | Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Ravel, Maurice | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Rubinstein | Rubinstein, Anton | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Rachmaninov | Rachmaninov, Sergei | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Satie | Satie, Erik | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Robert Schumann | Schumann, Robert | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Etudes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Fantasies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Bagatelles | Short Forms | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Character Pieces | Short Forms | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Sonatinas | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music CDs Under $7 | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs Under $7 | Etudes | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Etudes | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs Under $7 | Sonatas | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs Under $7 | Waltzes | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Waltzes | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music 4-for-3 Classical | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: 25 Piano Favorites The World's Favorite Piano Music Tchaikovsky: Violin Concerto Op35; Brahms: Violin Concerto in D Op77 Classical Evolution: Spanish Guitar Music Chopin: Preludes & Nocturnes ASIN: B000000UVY Release Date: 1995-10-17

Tracks:

1. Fantasie Impromptu in C-sharp minor, OP.66
2. Waltz No.15 in A-flat, Op.39
3. Rondo all turca from Sonata in A, K.331
4. Minuet in G
5. Traumerei Op.15 No.7 (from Kinderzenen)
6. Un sospiro
7. Etude in C-sharp minor, Op.10 No.4
8. Etude in G-flat, Op.10 No.5
9. Humoresque, Op.101 No.7
10. 'Fur Elise' (Bagatelle Wo0.59)
11. Claire de lune (Suite Bergamasque, No.3)
12. Golliwog's Cakewalk (Coin des enfants, No.6)
13. Prelude in C-sharp minor, Op.3 No.2
14. Melody in F, Op.3 No.1
15. The Cuckoo
16. La fille aux cheveux de lin (from Preludes Book I)
17. Waltz in C-sharp minor, Op.64 No.2
18. Waltz in G-flat, Op.70 No.1
19. Jeux d'eau
20. Gymnopedie No.1 (Lent et douloureux)

Customer Reviews:

Elegance at the piano.......2007-06-16

I grew up listening to Moura Lympany's playing, especially Litolff's Scherzo. Never could understand how a person could play with absolute control at high speed. In this recording, most (though not all - the Etude in C# minor an obvious exception)of the music is more laid back, and played with great grace and with the controlled touch of a pianist at the peak of her career.
The ambience of the recording is a wide open one, giving us the full clear sound that makes listening to a grand piano to enjoyable.
If you enjoy listening to good piano music, this is a recording that you will enjoy a great deal.

VALUE FOR MONEY.......2006-08-24

Dame Moura is my favourite pianist. Her great style and sublety of expression comes out in all her recordings. this CD is the best value for money ever!!

Good bang for the buck........2005-12-07

I was killing some time in the store the other day and was in the mood for a cheap CD for the car for the ride home. I ran across this and saw a few recognizable titles so for about $5 I figured I'd take a chance. I'm fairly impressed, I wasn't crazy about some of her dynamics in Un Sospiro plus her little added frill in there but still enjoyed it...I'd learned that piece myself years back, still can't play it and probably never will! Another piece I've known for years is the infamous Rachmaninov Prelude in C#m. Again, I wasn't crazy about some of the dynamics of her style but she still nails it without a hitch. Then I got to some other interesting pieces, I love the Debussy Golliwog's Cakewalk...really sticks in your head. Sort of a classisized (?) ragtime and it's cool enough that I'm going to dig through my music and see if I don't have it somewhere. I thought the Chopin Etude in C#m was absolutely fabulous, she just cooks through it from beginning to end. I probably have the music for that too...I'm not even going to attempt it! ;-) In fact, I liked all the Chopin she plays here, it seems she had a real flair for his music. Without going on forever here I'll just say that there are several tracks I listen to extensively on here and I'm fairly impressed. For a lousy $5 how can you go wrong? Just buy the thing! I'd never heard of her before so I just did a little 'net searching and I'm saddened to find that she just passed away about 8 months ago at age 88, truly a loss to the classical music world. In any case, even at twice the price I doubt anyone would be disappointed with this CD.

Really good price........2002-06-15

This is a great CD and you can't beat the price. These piano compositions are great for restful backgroud music after a hard day. I want to get a second one for when this one wears out.

Average customer rating: Ring introduction critique FASCINATING STUDY FOR NOVICES AND AFFICIONADOS ALIKE Welcome back to a classic analysis Essential for Understanding Wagner's Ring Cycle Very Functional

An Introduction to Der Ring des Nibelungen Deryck Cooke , Georg Solti , Wiener Philharmoniker , Anita Valkki , Berit Lindholm , Birgit Nilsson , Brigitte Fassbaender , Christa Ludwig , Claire Watson , Claudia Hellmann , Dame Gwyneth Jones , Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau , Eberhard Wächter , George London , Gerhard Stolze , Gottlob Frick , Grace Hoffmann , Gustav Neidlinger , Hans Hotter , Helen Watts , Helga Dernesch , Hetty Plumacher , Ira Malaniuk , James King , Jean Madeira , Joan Sutherland , Kirsten Flagstad , Kurt Böhme , Lucia Popp , Marga Höffgen , Marilyn Tyler , Maureen Guy , Oda Balsborg , Paul Kuen , Régine Crespin , Set Svanholm , Vera Little , Vera Schlosser , Waldemar Kmentt , Walter Kreppel , and Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra Manufacturer: Decca ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra | ( V ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Baritones | Voices | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music Similar Items: Wagner's Ring: Turning the Sky Round Wagner - Der Ring des Nibelungen (Ring Cycle) / Sir Georg Solti Decoding Wagner: An Invitation to His World of Music Drama (includes 2 CDs) Wagner - Der Ring des Nibelungen / Levine, Metropolitan Opera (Complete Ring Cycle) Ring of the Nibelung ASIN: B00000424H Release Date: 2005-09-13

Tracks:

1. Of All Great Musical Compositions... (Examples 1-4)
2. The Fundamental Symbol... (Examples 5-11)
3. Returning Now To The Nature Motive... (Examples 6, 12-16)
4. A Number Of Further Motives... (Examples 5, 17-21)
5. A Second, Much Smaller Family... (Examples 22-25)
6. So Much For Nature. (Examples 26-38)
7. The Cause Of The Deterioration... (Examples 39-44)
8. The Other Transformation... (Examples 45-48)
9. Several Other Motives... (Examples 49-52)
10. Two Further Motives... (Examples 41, 53-61)
11. The Basic Motive Associated With The Spear... (Examples 62-68)
12. Along Another, More Complex Line... (Examples 69-72)
13. In Act Two Of Walkure... (Examples 69, 73-75)
14. Returning Now To Act Two Of Walkure... (Examples 76-79)
15. Love Is Another Of The Central Symbols... (Examples 80-83)
16. Later In The Same Scene... (Examples 84-87)
17. Freia's Motive Has Two Independent Segments... (Examples 88-91)
18. The Label 'Flight'... (Example 92)
19. When Fasolt, In Scene Two Of Rhinegold... (Examples 93-98)
20. A Little Later In The Interlude... (Examples 99-103)

Tracks:

1. The Other New Motive... (Examples 104-109)
2. There Are Several Independent Love-Motives... (Examples 110-114)
3. The Characters In Whose Lives... (Examples 115-120)
4. One Further Motive Belongs... (Example 121)
5. The Sword Motive Recurs... (Examples 122-130)
6. Ironically, This Phrase... (Examples 131-135)
7. Closely Associated With Gutrune's Motive... (Examples 136-140)
8. Here We Come To The End... (Examples 141-146)
9. Complemtary To This Symbol... (Examples 147-149)
10. One Last Central Symbol... (Examples 150-157)
11. One Further Motive Connected... (Examples 158-161)
12. There Are One Or Two Motives... (Examples 162-168)
13. These Motives Of Alberich And Mime... (Examples 169-171)
14. Quite A Number Of The Subsidiary Motives... (Examples 172-176)
15. Besides This Family Of Motives... (Examples 177-180)
16. Our Final Example... (Examples 10, 181, 182)
17. In The Final Scene Of Gotterdammerung... (Examples 181-183)
18. Even More Masterly... (Examples 184-188)
19. Now If We Return... (Examples 189-191)
20. This Masterly Way... (Examples 192, 193)

Amazon.com

When Wagner set the Ring to music, he intended the orchestra to act in the fashion of a chorus from a classic Greek tragedy--setting the mood and commenting on the action. In order to allow a nonverbal musical line to reflect on the plot, Wagner developed a psychologically and musically complex symbology to communicate his thoughts to the listener. From the beginning the Ring has spawned numerous written commentaries on the relationships of the motif structure, but by using examples from the Decca Ring recording, Deryck Cooke's thoughtful spoken commentary is by far the most accessible guide for either the fledgling Ring enthusiast or the seasoned veteran. --Christian C. Rix

Customer Reviews:

Ring introduction critique.......2006-11-04

This is very worthwhile, at the same time it requires time, patience and attention, but it does provide some keys to better enjoyment of a sensational piece of music.

FASCINATING STUDY FOR NOVICES AND AFFICIONADOS ALIKE.......2006-08-16

This may look an intimidating, daunting and dull prospect - a 2+ hour lecture on the motifs in the Ring. Don't be put off. Whether you're a relative novice to the Ring and want to find out what it's all about, more experienced with a desire to understand the composer's methods better or an afficionado who thinks he knows it all inside out, there is great pleasure as well as elucidation to be had from this set. Originally made to accompany the Decca Solti Ring, it contains a multitude of musical illustrations taken from those recordings as well as some specially recorded by Solti just for this Introduction.

It wasn't the first time this has been tried. The famous HMV sets from the late 20's also included recorded examples of over 100 motifs. (These, by the way, are available as part of the Pearl reissue of those wonderful HMV recordings). What that set lacked was the wonderful insights as well as the approachability of the talk by Deryck Cooke. Cooke was a great and much missed musicologist - a Mahler expert responsible for the performing edition of the Tenth Symphony still most played today, a fascinating explorer into the nature of music's basic building-blocks in his excellent book, The Language of Music, and an inspiring and elucidating critic of Wagner's work as shown by the fascinating book he left unfinished at his death, I Saw the World End.

On these CDs he does much more than list the leitmotifs and identify them as calling-cards. He shows the amazingly integrated and organic growth of the musical material that Wagner uses throughout his vast work. He demonstrates how motifs can change their sense and meaning as they evolve through the drama. And he shows how the complex combinations of motifs can radically advance both the musical and the dramatic narrative of the piece. There are even places where he corrects the misinterpretation of some of the motifs that had become ingrained from early commentators' false labels.

This set should engage and enlighten anyone with an interest in Wagner's huge and inexhaustible tetralogy. Do give it a try - no matter how far down the road to Wagnerianism you are.

Welcome back to a classic analysis.......2006-05-28

Deryck Cooke's lecture series upon THE RING is almost as much a classic by now as the Solti RING cycle, with which it was originally issued on LP, and from which it derives its musical examples. The difference is that whereas the Solti RING has been continuously in print ever since it was completed, and was among the first opera sets to benefit from the CD revolution, the Cooke analysis was for long almost totally unobtainable. Now we have it back. It should be welcomed: it is a classic. Cooke's mellow, deep voice with the hint of a Celtic burr - which made him ideal on BBC radio - patiently explains Wagner's melodic, rhythmic, and harmonic metamorphoses to such good effect that if you own this recording, you really require no other RING analysis. (A pity about the abrupt beginnings and endings of too many vocal and orchestral illustrations, though.) Musicology lost a fine, sensitive thinker with Cooke's premature death in 1976.

If all you want is dilettantish baby food, there are plenty of dumbed-down Wagner commentaries on the market, stretching from Anna Russell's famous monologue (which doesn't pretend to be anything other than a parody aimed at morons) to the latest standard-issue "Wagner-was-a-Nazi-boo-hiss" feuilleton (which, unfortunately, does). Without reasonable score-reading skill you will find Cooke useless, however diligently you have ploughed through Marx, Jung, Freud, or other gurus purportedly relevant to THE RING. Cooke expects you to use your brains and your musical sense. Quelle horreur. At today's BBC his "elitism" would render him unemployable.

Essential for Understanding Wagner's Ring Cycle.......2006-05-15

I originally bought this set on vinyl in the early 70s when I discovered the Ring in college. I studied the records and booklet assiduously, and after about three run-throughs I finally started getting it. Wow! Thirty-five years later, I still remember Mr. Cooke's analyses of various motive families, and I don't know how I could have mastered and loved the Ring without him. I now own this set on CD and listen again on the rare occasion of attending a Ring performance. My wife calls me a "Ring nut," but of course I'm nuts about many other things as well.

Bottom line, buy this set and study it if the Ring has captivated you as it has countless others. The presentation is dry, but sticking with it brings measureless and longlasting rewards.

Very Functional.......2006-03-19

This CD set is excellent for what it sets out to do: present the leitmotives of the Ring according to their relationship to one another and their role in developing both characters and plotlines. Deryck Cooke's lectures on each motive are very insightful, very helpful at cueing the listener into the semantic aspect of Wagner's orchestral writing. The one drawback is that the musical examples are a bit jarring. Without fade-ins or -outs, the engineering is quite barbaric. And though the orchestra was, I believe, conducted by Solti, and is beautifully done, the vocal performances can be quite unpleasant. Point being: this is not background music, but in accomplishing what it sets out to do, it is very successful, and I don't know of anything else like it.

Average customer rating: Highest Level of Artistry Displayed "Behold the Tomb" Well-sung Shakespearean travesty beautiful and moving opera Wonderful nostalgia

Bellini: I Capuleti e i Montecchi Manufacturer: EMI Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Bellini, Vincenzo | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Similar Items: Rossini: L'Assedio di Corinto Donizetti's Lucia di Lammermoor: Complete Opera (with full libretto and translation) Massenet: Manon Verdi: La Traviata / Sills, Gedda, Panerai; Ceccato Handel - Julius Caesar / Treigle · Sills · Forrester · Wolff · NYCO · Rudel ASIN: B0002XV2XO Release Date: 2005-02-15

Tracks:

1. Sinfonia
2. Aggiorna Appena...
3. O Di Capellio, Generosi Amici
4. E Serbata A Questo Acciaro
5. Si: M'abbraccia
6. L'amo Tanto, E M'e Si Cara
7. Vanne Lorenzo
8. Lieto Del Dolce Incarno
9. Ascolta. Se Romeo T'uccise Un Figlio
10. Riedi Al Campo
11. La Tremenda Ultrice Spada
12. Eccomi In Lieta Vesta...
13. Oh! Quante Volte
14. Propizia E L'ora
15. Si, Fuggire: A Noi Non Resta
16. Odi Tu? L'altar Funesto
17. Vieni, Ah! Vieni

Tracks:

1. Lieta Notte, Avventurosa
2. Deh! Per Pieta, T'arresta
3. Tace Il Fragor
4. Che Miro?
5. Soccorso, Sostegno Accordagli
6. Accorriam...Romeo!
7. Ne Alcun Ritorna!
8. Morte Io Non Temo Il Sai
9. Prendi, Gl'istanti Volano
10. Deh! Padre Mio, Deh Padre Mio!
11. Deserto E Il Luogo
12. Chi Sei Tu?
13. Qua' Voci! Oh Dio!
14. Ella E Morta, O Sciagurato
15. Siam Giunti
16. Ecco La Tomba
17. Tu Sola, O Mia Giulietta
18. O Tu, Mia Sola Speme
19. Ah! Crudel! Che Mai Facesti?

Customer Reviews:

Highest Level of Artistry Displayed .......2007-02-13

This isn't the Shakespearean version, in case you get disappointed, but is based on an Italian source. In spite of the obvious fact the Sills and Gedda were already past their prime by the time of this recording, they still have plenty to give us, and their musical insight makes this recording better than other well-sung performances recorded in the studio. Baker is absolutely fantastic throughout and gave a very satisfying performance both musically and artistically.

Now coming to the comparison made by a reviewer between Bellini and Verdi. Well, even if Bellini had lived to 80, it would not be his aim to write like Verdi. Bellini stood alone amongst the great opera composers of Italy. Even his contemporaries recognized it and called his music 'filosofico'. Bellini's aim was not to create dramas with music like Donizetti or Verdi, but rather music drama - a fact which Wagner recognized. Only that Bellini's aim was to realize it via the voice (think Norma), while Wagner did it with the orchestra. It is note-worthy that Wagner spared Bellini the usual bashing he gave to the Italians. Not only that - he admitted to Cosima that the love duet from Capuleti was the source of his inspiration for his own in Tristan. In his old age, he was proud to say that he learned from 'these pages' what Messrs Brahms etc had failed to learn. One should approach a Bellini opera as one does a Chopin Ballade or Wagner's Tristan, not Verdi. That is not to say that Verdi is inferior, but just different.

And regarding Bellini's orchestration, Wagner and Bizet were on separate occasions, were tasked to 'improve' the orchestration of Norma. Both eventually gave up the job as impossible and concluded that the orchestration written by Bellini was the most suitable. Comparing the orchestration between the early Il Pirata (with its almost Wagnerian finale!) with Norma, it dawns upon one that the decision to thin out the orchestra by Bellini was deliberate, in line with his purpose of using the voice as the primary tool to express the drama.

"Behold the Tomb".......2006-09-30

I find it difficult to evaluate Bellini's work because it depends so heavily on performance. Never a connoiseur of performances, I leave it to others to tell one bel canto aria from another. It is discouraging to realize that Bellini, who died young, never took much interest in orchestral music, making him a lesser counterpart to Verdi, who combines the Italian devotion to the voice with powerful dramatic effects from the orchestra. Even the cover of the EMI CD is disappointing because it slaps a mod-erotic photograph on an opera where the lovers are too traumatised to make love. The libretto is so poor that the recording does not bother to supply it, confirming the view that Bellini's operas are for connoiseurs of vocal sound only.

I have downoaded the text from Karadar Classical Music as well as a synopsis from Opera japonica. We learn that the Capuleti and Montecchi are local versions of the Guelph and Ghilbelline parties respectively. The Ghibelline Dante would have been allied with the Montecchi, Romeo's party. Capellio, Juliet's father, seeks to avenge the death of a son at the hands of Romeo. Romeo's part is sung by a mezzo-soprano, adding further to the absurdity of the EMI cover photo. Although Romeo and Juliet are already lovers, she refuses to elope with him out of loyalty to her father. These lovers really seem more interested in dying than in making love. Juliet does manage to declare that she breathes easier when she learns that Romeo has survived a fight. We know that Romeo has reached his appointed place when he sings, "Ecco la tomba." Janet Baker, as Romeo, shines in the slow, heart-broken singing that follows, interspersed with sympathetic passages by the chorus of Montecchi. There is no doubt that Bellini's operas allow top performers to sing as beautifully as they can. The instrumental accompaniment in this concluding scene is reduced to a bare minimum.

Well-sung Shakespearean travesty.......2005-10-15

Source: Studio recording made at Abbey Road Studio, London, June 16-25, 1975.

Sound: Analog stereo. The engineering is competent, I suppose, but as a matter of personal taste I do not care for the distant and echo-y soundscape. It sounds as though the opera were taking place at the far end of a Gothic cathedral.

Documentation: No printed libretto, although there is a reference to an on-line libretto available at the EMI Classics website, (which failed to download in five tries over two days) just in case I want to listen to this opera while I am working at my computer. The accompanying essay by James Harding is the most useless I have ever found in a CD case--and that is by no means an easily earned distinction. Harding is vitally interested in Bellini's lame love life but indifferent to such trifles as the plot of the opera he is supposed to be writing about.

Format: Disk 1, Act I, Scenes 1 and 2; 60:42. Disk 2, Act I, Scene 3; Act II, Scenes 1-3; 74:23.

Bellini premiered "I Capuleti e i Montecchi" at Teatro La Fenice in Venice exactly one month before his twenty-ninth birthday. It was a success but it was not without critics. In his essay, Harding writes, "It was unfair of Berlioz to denounce I Capuleti e i Montecchi as a travesty of Shakespeare." Berlioz clearly had a point, for where the Bard had twenty characters, the librettist "Romani made do with only five. You will look in vain," Harding gushes on, "for the Nurse and Friar Laurence" and, I must add, for Mercutio, Benvolio and Paris, too. In the opera, Paris and Tybalt become a single character, Tebaldo, to the great detriment of the plot.

"I Capuleti e i Montecchi" came about midway in Bellini's too short career. The really big hits on which his fame rests were yet to come. The music is competent but somehow lacking that indefinable ping that makes "La Sonnambula," "Norma" and "I Puritani" extraordinary.

Overall, the performance is good. Best by far in the cast is Janet Baker. She does not generate overt excitement but she offers an overwhelming sense of rightness when she essays any part in the narrow range that she made her own. This recording is a little late for the best of Sills but she is still very bright and amazingly agile. As always, I feel that her voice is just a little too cool and too thin, but that is purely a matter of personal taste. It is also late for Nicolai Gedda, who sounds unexpectedly baritonal as Tebaldo, a part that any other 19th Century composer would surely have written for a baritone. (I know, I know, Gounod's Tybalt is a tenor. I sang the role, myself, back in college days. But Gounod's Tybalt is markedly different in character from Bellini's Tebaldo-Paris.) Gedda is very good, but I am not at all sure that I would have recognized him if his name had not been on the cover.

"I Capuleti e i Montecchi" is not a great opera, but three famous and very fine singers offer intelligent and entertaining performances. That's worth five stars as far as I'm concerned.

FOR THE HISTORICALLY MINDED: William Shakespeare wrote his "Romeo and Juliet" in the 1590s, in the early days of his career. As was usual for him, he based his play on older materials. The first literary mention of the Montagus and the Capulets is in Dante's "Purgatorio," vi, lines 106-108. The Montagus lived in Verona and the Capulets in Cremona. They were used by Dante as examples of warring factions that had been exterminated. About 1530, Luigi da Porto mistakenly assumed that the Montagus and the Capulets had both resided in Verona and had feuded with one another. He worked up a tale that involved two young members of his warring clans, Giulietta and Romeo. In 1554, Matteo Bandello published a novella called "Romeo e Giulietta" which proved to be an international hit. A French version was adapted from Bandello by Pierre Boaistuau in 1559. This, in turn, was translated into English in 1562 by Arthur Brooke as a "tragical history" in verse form called "Romeus and Juliet," later to be pounced on by Will Shakespeare in search of a popular hit. The only major changes that Shakespeare made in Brooke's plot were to compress the time frame and to introduce Tybalt into the story at an earlier point in order to build him up as a worthy adversary for Romeo. And, oh, yes, he created an array of living characters such as had never been conceived before.

A number of commentators have taken note of the much simplified plot of "I Capuleti e i Montecchi." They have accounted for it by declaring that Shakespeare's version was not yet well-known in the world, so Romani must have based his work on an earlier version of the story, by which I presume they mean by Bandello or even by da Porto. I don't buy that explanation. By 1830, the cult of Bardolatry was firmly established. The standard German translations (that the Germans to this day hold to be superior to the English originals) were well along. Two generations earlier, the tourist industry of Stratford Upon Avon had been given a kick start by the great actor, Garrick (in a bicentennial celebration conceived by David Garrick, written by David Garrick, produced by David Garrick, directed by David Garrick and starring David Garrick--additional dialogue by W. Shakespeare.) Just seventeen years later, Verdi would write his "Macbeth" and make sketches for a "King Lear," that greatest of all operatic might-have-beens. One of the twenty or so books that Verdi kept close to himself until the day he died was an Italian translation of the works of Shakespeare.

No, I do not think that Romani dealt with any obscure 16th Century originals. I think that he exercised a hack's privilege to pillage a respectable source for his convenience. Berlioz was correct. In both the literal and the figurative senses of the word, this is a travesty.

beautiful and moving opera .......2005-08-12

One may regret that Beverly Sills and Nicolai Gedda did not
record this opera earlier in their careers (1975) yet still
be glad they did. Though there are some audible signs of vo-
cal wear their artistry and commitment are never in doubt and
they offer memorable performances. Janet Baker is on the other
hand in splendid voice and sings superbly - she portrays a
somber Romeo and is supremely moving in the tomb scene.
Robert Lloyd and Raimund Herincx offer excellent support.
Very well recorded and beautifully conducted by Maestro
Patane - a very welcome release !

Wonderful nostalgia .......2005-05-20

Back in the 1970's I was a very intense fan of both La Sills and La Baker. The very idea of both of them coming together for an opera recording sent this rapid fan into a severe swoon! Therefore, this recording sent me into a state of ecstasy! I along with other Sills and Baker fans would gather around my stereo listening to this recording with Baker and Sills weaving their vocal magic which always elicited from us many tears and bravos.
At the time Beverly was a known commodity in Bell Canto operas; however, Janet was mainly known as a song recitalist. Nevertheless, Janet Baker, in this opera, proves that she could sing opera with the best of them showing her great operatic credentials-she is up to every vocal challenge Bellini throws at her. She tackles the role with great artistry and beauty of tone. Her last scene STILL dissolves me to copious tears.
In this recording Beverly sings a little cautiously not throwing out high E's with abandon as before; however, her years of experience being a sublime singer of Bell Canto operas comes through. Her singing is gorgeous, sweet and touching to the highest degree, I truly believe that this recording was one of her best.
It truly is great to hear this recording again-ah the memories. Time has NOT diminished its appeal!

Average customer rating: Wonderful performances and remastering DuPre at her best Don't even think about buying another performance! Sea Pictures, a life changing event, Lord Elgar, I worship thee! The Definitive Elgar Cello Concerto

Elgar: Cello Concerto; Sea Pictures; Cockaigne Overture Manufacturer: EMI Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Elgar | Elgar, Sir Edward | ( E ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Overtures | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Cello | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Similar Items: Dvorak & Saint-Saens: Cello Concertos Great Recordings Of The Century - Elgar: Violin Concerto, 'Enigma' Variations / Elgar, Menuhin Vaughan Williams: Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis; Fantasia on Great Recordings Of The Century - Brahms: Violin Sonatas nos 1 - 3 / Perlman, Ashkenazy Dvorák: Cello Concerto; Tchaikovsky / Karajan, Rostropovich, ASIN: B0002VEQGG Release Date: 2004-09-07

Tracks:

1. Concert Overture: Cockaigne (In London Town) Op.40 - Philharmonia Orchestra
2. I. Adagio - Moderato - Jacqueline Du Pre
3. II. Lento - Allegro Molto - Jacqueline Du Pre
4. III. Adagio - Jacqueline Du Pre
5. IV. Allegro - Moderato - Allegro, Ma Non Troppo - Jacqueline Du Pre
6. I. Sea Slumber-Song - Janet Baker
7. II. In Haven (Capri) - Janet Baker
8. III. Sabbath Morning At Sea - Janet Baker
9. IV.Where Corals Lie - Janet Baker
10. V. The Swimmer - Janet Baker

Customer Reviews:

Wonderful performances and remastering.......2007-02-19

This legendary Du Pre recording of the Elgar Cello Concerto is certainly one of the titles I've been waiting to see in the Great Recordings of the Century. Du Pre gives a passionate reading of the concerto, capturing all the pathos in this immensely tragic work, with able support from Barbirolli and the London Symphony Orchestra, drawing upon his expertise in this music. Barbirolli and the LSO also ably support Dame Janet Baker in her rendition of the Sea Pictures. Dame Janet sings with a light touch and a tonal beauty that befits the music, and one can hear everyone making the most of this underrated Elgar work and unearthing the many nuances in his depiction of the sea.

You'll wonder what the Cello Concerto and the Sea Pictures have in common besides boasting great performances in this disc. Well, from my reading of it, they both harbour sentiments of unpredictability in life. The Cello Concerto is laden with yearning for a lost world, a world torn apart by the First World War, and the Sea Pictures features some depictions of how the sea destroys love.

As expected, this reissue in the Great Recordings of the Century series offers the best remastering that these performances could ever deserve. They emerge as if they were clean, full and vibrant recordings that sound like they were only recorded yesterday. My only quibble is that the CD producers decided to throw in the Cockaigne Overture, which is a rather frivolous piece in relation to the deep, sober mood of the original record. I know that we must get bang for our dollars with the capacity of a CD, but the Cockaigne really spoils the mood of the other two pieces. Thankfully the listener can programme it out and get to the Concerto and the Sea Pictures.

But don't let this deter you from grabbing a copy of this legendary recording that surely deserves its coveted place in this superb EMI series.

DuPre at her best.......2007-02-19

The Elgar belongs to no other. Jackie may have been a bit high-strung, but there's more emotion in this recording that one can find in any other recording of anything in the universe.

Don't even think about buying another performance!.......2006-09-28

... unless you already have this one and want to appreciate it even more!

This is Du Pre's signature piece and she OWNS it.

And Janet Baker, knowing she is dying of cancer, sings Sea Pictures like there is literally no tomorrow.

This is one of those rare recordings where the planets perfectly align to give you music, performers, recording and MOMENT that together exceed the sum of the parts.

Sea Pictures, a life changing event, Lord Elgar, I worship thee!.......2006-01-01

Hello my name is Marcus. You may remember me from such films as the Flintsto... well I'll save my Troy McKlure impersonation for later. Right now its all about Elgar. Or should I say "SIR" Edward Elgar.

The rules for entry into my own "Immortal Composers Club" are insanely strict. I myself a music instructor, composer recording artist have not even been allowed in the club officially as a member yet. I'm like an apprentice to these masters. Or dare I say I am a "padawan learner" still learning.

The Yoda master of the club is of course J.S. Bach, the Obi-Wan of the club, easily Elgar. Myself a practitioner of the archaic non-commercial art of "Art Song" have been moved to tears a few times by both Elgars Sea Pictures and the flawless mezzo performance on this awesome recording. Everything on the CD is of course great but in my opinion the Sea Pictures is one of the greatest art song cycles in human history.

Myself just completing my first modern art song cycle called " Harmonious Haiku " (which you can check out with any basic Google search,) can greatly appreciate the unfortunately to unappreciated form of Art Song.

Sea Pictures is one of my favorites of the Genre. Forget the movies, forget drug store fiction, put on some Sea Pictures, close your eyes and experience what song writing could have been if not for the L. A. Record companies and the well I can't say "Fab" but you know, those four guys with the hair.

Elgar is how a real Englishman makes music! Ride on Brother! Ride on!

Thank you,
Your friend in great music
~ MarcusUnlimited :)

The Definitive Elgar Cello Concerto.......2005-05-04

This performance is hands down the single best recording of the Elgar Cello Concerto. Other accounts are good -- Tortelier, Navarra, Yo-Yo Ma -- but only one stereo reading was good enough to replace the composer's own historical recording with Beatrice Harrison and that is this one by Jacqueline du Pre. Sir John Barbirolli and the Halle Orchestra accompany the cellist in this definitive 1965 performance, which for all intents and purposes, launched her career. Du Pre's playing has the quality and delivery of a great singer, so it is only fitting that the Concerto be coupled with another legendary performance -- Janet Baker's "Sea Pictures" again with JB and the lads from Manchester. This CD has been available for years as a full-price title, but it is great to see it now at midline in the "GROTC" series. In fact, for more in depth reviews of these performances, including one from esteemed music critic David Hurwitz, you should consult this reissue's predecessor.

Average customer rating: epic and stunning A Disney Treasure Sing the bells, bells, bells, bells, bells of Notre Dame! The Darkest of Menken's Scores! Awesome Disney soundtrack

The Hunchback Of Notre Dame: An Original Walt Disney Records Soundtrack Alan Menken , and Stephen Schwartz Manufacturer: Disney ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Contemporary | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music Disney Records | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Disney's Hercules: An Original Walt Disney Records Soundtrack Pocahontas: An Original Walt Disney Records Soundtrack The Prince Of Egypt: Music From The Original Motion Picture Soundtrack Aladdin: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack [Blisterpack] Mulan: An Original Walt Disney Records Soundtrack ASIN: B000001M31 Release Date: 2001-07-31

Tracks:

1. Bells of Notre Dame - Tony Jay, Paul Kandel, David Ogden Stiers
2. Out There - Jason Alexander, Charles Kimbrough, Mary Stout, Mary Wickes
3. Topsy Turvy
4. Humiliation
5. God Help the Outcasts
6. Bell Tower
7. Heaven's Light/Hellfire
8. Guy Like You
9. Paris Burning
10. Court of Miracles
11. Sanctuary - All-4-One
12. And He Shall Smite the Wicked - Bette Midler
13. Into the Sunlight - Tom Hulce, Tony Jay
14. Bells of Notre Dame (Reprise) - Paul Kandel, Chorus
15. Someday
16. God Help the Outcasts - Tom Hulce

Customer Reviews:

epic and stunning.......2007-05-08

by 1996, disney animation was starting to slide. after the lion king's huge success, pohahontas failed to live up to the lofty standards; it was successful, but not to the same extent. the hunchback of notre dame saw a similar dicline as well. although the film is impressive and powerful, possibly overly so, the soundtrack is a truly forgotten gem. the film is flawed and was not the success that was hoped for, but this soundtrack is one of the best that disney has ever offered.

the score here is one of alan menken's greatest. its hared to compare them all since they're all so different and show menken's brilliance as a composer that they all take on such life, but this is an A+ score. again menken uses sounds and rhythms from the setting to further the story. the brilliant use of greek and latin liturgical chants throughout much of the score and many of the songs bring power and weightiness that would have most definately been missed otherwise. these liturgical portions provide both the scores greatest strength but its greatest weakness as well. at times, sheer emotion that is present in most of his songs is missed and instead we are treated to an almost over-the-top style of music. still this is an impressive score by any standard that definately deserved the oscar but somehow missed it.

SCORE 5 out of 5

as for the songs, menken and steven schwartz provided some of disney's greatest. for the most the part the songs are intense, powerful, emotional and dramatic. the comic songs provide wittiness and cleverness that don't undermine the actual story (with one exception that i will get to ...)

THE BELLS OF NOTRE DAME - paul kandel is a phenominal presence here and the unbelievable flourishes of the score paired with the great story telling make this a top-notch opener for the film. the length never wears on and it stays incredabley impressive throughout. at times it does provide some strange moments musically that hint at levity in strange places, but nevertheless this is great
5 out of 5

OUT THERE - we first meet tom hulce's rendition of quasimodo here in this great song of longing. it is both emotional and powerful without being sappy. the biggest potential problem here would be having to live up to the intensity of the song prior to this, but out there does it with flawless ease. tom hulce's voice is also a great treat
5 out of 5

TOPSY TURVY - this is a great fun song that is both humorous but witty and clever. the humor doesn't compromise the story and keeps things moving in a dramatic direction impressively enough. this song shows an impressive maturity on the part of schwartz's lyrics and the audience that they will pick up on the sly humor.
5 out of 5

GOD HELP THE OUTCASTS - wow. this song's power and heidi mollenhauer's emotional performance raise this mere ballad of longing to something more and all the more impressive. this song literally moved me to tears because of the character's longing and emotional strength. the only complaint is that this could have been stronger if it was expanded similar to bette midler's version at the end. but still a great song that can't be missed.
5 out of 5

HEAVEN'S LIGHT/ HELLFIRE - first up is heaven's light. another beautiful little song from tom hulce who brings the same level of emotion and tenderness as before. the lyrics are soft and loving, perfect for quasi's ballad. then we have hellfire by tony jay. the intensity and raw sensuality make it a risky song for a disney flick, but it works brilliantly. the interesting thing is how the two pieces compare and contrast the two mens' feelings towards esmarelda; love vs lust.
5 out of 5

A GUY LIKE YOU - here's where things fly south. with this song we see none of the intensity or chants that accompany the rest of the soundtrack. alone this isnt that bad of a song. but within the film, it undermines all of the building drama with cheap cliched tactics. i understand the thinking behind the song; it shows quasi's delutions as to how esmarelda may care for him, even though she doesnt. but it could've worked much better if it used the wittier humor that is present elsewhere, it even undercuts the building drama on the soundtrack too.
2 out of 5

THE COURT OF MIRACLES - this is a short but darkly comical song that like topsy turvy brings dry humor and tongue-in-cheek humor to lighten up the song. it's short but worth a listen.
5 out of 5

SONGS OVERALL 4 out of 5

were it not for the disaster that is a guy like you, this would be a five star film and five star soundtrack. menken and schwartz showed on the rest of this soundtrack that they can do much better. this is still much better than most soundtracks out there today and blows many other disney works out of the water. this can't be missed by any disney fan or music lover in general.

A Disney Treasure.......2006-12-28

Just listening to opening melody at the beginning of The Hunchback of Notre Dame's soundtrack---a serene choral chanting that suddenly explodes into a magnificent, grand melismatic vocalization of the signature theme---it becomes instantly clear that this is unlike any other Disney album. Alan Menken's score surpasses any of his other works, including the celebrated Beauty & The Beast, and puts Hunchback at a musical level that no other Disney film can touch and probably never will. He ingeniously weaves a tapestry of music that is glorious and unforgetable, adding to the atmosphere of fifteenth century Paris, touching on ecclesiastical themes in a way that seems undoubtedly bold for a Disney film.

Tom Hulce makes for an endearing and poignant Quasimodo, a character so gentle and kind it would be easy to make him into the stereotypical, sappy Disney protagonist. But, no. Hulce's singing voice personifies an earnest sense of Quasimodo's integrity, and it's almost enough to break your heart as he sings his anthem "Out There". And if you aren't moved during that particular number, you must surely have a heart of stone if the short but stirring ballad "Heaven's Light" leaves you callous. Comparing the wonder of love to heaven's light, he sings "I knew I'd never know/ That warm and loving glow/ Though I might wish with all my might/No face as hideous as my face/ Was ever meant for heaven's light" with delicate innocence that brings a tear to my eye each time I hear it.

On the other end of the spectrum is the ominous baritone of Tony Jay as Frollo, the frighteningly human villain of the film. His big number comes in "Hellfire", with a subject so dark you would scarcely expect to find it in a Disney film. Maddened with lust (yes, lust!) for the gypsy Esmerelda, his lines such as "Like fire/ Hellfire/ This fire in my skin/ This burning desire/ Is turning me to sin" and "Destroy Esmerelda/ And let her taste the fires of hell/ Or else let her be mine and mine alone!" take on a sinister meaning. Adding to the song is the inclusion of canonical Latin chanting, which contributes to the song both musically and lyrically. The booklet that comes included in the CD handily provides the English reading of all the Latin libretto in the score.

But if "Hellfire" is the best song on the soundtrack, the score's jewel is the climatic "Sanctuary!". As I listen to it now, as I write this review, I remain just as awed by the foreboding music and haunting ecclesiastical chanting as I was when I first heard it years ago as a child. Beginning with a menacing rendition of the "Judex crederis"---"In our Judge we have believed"---the score settles into a subdued quietness that suddenly crescendos into a swirling tempo rubato, which in the movie accompanies Quasimodo's struggle to break from his captivity and rescue Esmerelda. The piece culminates as the choral singers cantillate "Gloria, gloria in excelsis!" as the music swells to a beautiful and breathtaking zenith. Here is the masterpiece of the soundtrack and a testament to Menken's prodigy.

Also notable are gems such as "The Bells of Notre Dame" and its reprise, which make good use of the movie's theme melody. "The Bell Tower" is a lovely instrumental, which features a rendition of the melody of "God Help the Outcasts" and "Out There", making for an enchanting and splendid piece. But the whole soundtrack consists of such exquisite songs it is impossible to praise them in their entirity without taking up too much space in this single review.

The only flaws are two in number. The lesser of the evils is "A Guy Like You", a comedic ditty that Quasimodo's make-believe gargoyle buddies serenade him with as he reminisces about Esmerela, whom he adores. This song is better in the context of the film, where the audience is abruptly and affectingly reminded that the gargoyle's claims that the object of Quasimodo's love returns his feelings are nothing but Quasi's imagination. Here on the CD, it just sounds like a garden-variety schmaltzy Disney tune that seems strangely out-of-place amongst the score's dark and brooding pieces.

Ah, but naught can compare to the torture Bette Midler unleashes on our eardrums with her cover of "God Help the Outcasts." Shame, it was such a pretty song, but the pathetically off-key screeching Ms. Midler tries to pass as "singing" is just laughable. Just skip this track and be content with the shorter but much more aesthetically pleasing version Heidi Mollenhauer sings in the movie. Trust me, you'll be doing your ears a favor.

Altogether, it's a true creme-de-la-creme for Disney soundtracks and definitely a must-have for any Disney fans as well as people who appreciate fine music. I only wish Disney hadn't sunk to the lows it is at today and continued to make movies and music like The Hunchback of Notre Dame.

Sing the bells, bells, bells, bells, bells of Notre Dame!.......2006-04-16

I am a classic lit fan, but I have not read Hunchback of Notre Dame. I do know what was used from the book in the movie and what they changed to make it suitable for kids. But I am not here to discuss the movie.

I am here to discuss the music. People seem to diss this movie, but they tend to forget that the songs are quite truthful to the book. Stephen Schwartz is a GOD when it comes to lyrics; Alan Menken is an amazing composer. They work togethter amazingly. Unlike Pocahountas, I think this was much better because they were working with a story that was different than the fairytale children stories that Disney usually did. (This was done by the directors of Beauty and the Beast, and that was quite adult too if you can think about it.) The lyrics are adult themed in a sense.

The Bells of Notre Dame--Always gave me chills listening to it. You can just picture the story in your mind. You can feel the fear, the anger, and the mystery. "Who is the monster and who is the man?"... Who is?

Out There--This song is my personal favorite. It just captures Quasimodo's want to be like everyone else. It also expresses his gentle natured side that seems to be hidden behind the darkness of the catherdral's walls. I think Tom Hulce has an amazing singing voice.

Topsy Turvy--This is the longest of the written songs and the most interesting on screen. There is so much wit and creative humor thrown into this scene that the song ends up in your head for a couple days. I like the fact that they said the word "beer", but edited it later on in the Sing-Alongs. Oh well, more fun for the adults.

God Help the Outcasts--Now, I like this song...but I really didn't want it to be the actual song chosen for the movie. I much prefer "Someday" (which was going to be the song sung). I think this song just feels a bit out of place. I would have also liked it to feature Quasimodo dueting with Esmerelda, so that he feels a link between him and her. (If you purchase the rare Berlin Musical Cast of Hunchback of Notre Dame, he does!)

Heaven's Light/Hellfire--When I saw the movie in the theatres (I was 8 or 9), I loved these scenes. First, Quasimodo showing his adoration for carving a figure of Esmerelda and including it among the people in his figurines. It's sort of symbolic because he feels Esmerelda belongs among the people that she feels she is distant from. And then it flips to Frollo, over in his Palace of Justice. There, as in the book, he is tormented with the lust of killing Esmerelda and having her for his own. The choir, the voice of Tony Jay, the lyrics simply give you chills when hearing it. You can almost feel him ready to "go get her". Seeing it on film defys all other Disney movie scenes. Adults may be against their children seeing this, but really, it's not all that bad. My mother loved it.

A Guy Like You--I hate the Gargoyles and for a while I hated this song. But when watching the commentary, and having the directors saying that this was more of a fantasy in his mind--after all, the gargoyles are only made out of stone--it makes more sense and it's more appreciated. It'd be kind of stupid having Quasimodo going all "split personality" and singing this song. But it's good humor, wity lyrics, and it builds up for such a heartbreaking scene later on in the movie.

--Not included in the soundtrack is the reprise of "Heaven's Light" when Quasimodo sees that all hopes with Esmerelda are nothing now. It's a short little ditty, but I think it should hae been on the CD. Hopefully if the movie ever gets a special edition, the song will be included. And also some of the missing music...--

The Court of Miracles--I don't like this song. I feel as if it were created because they wanted kids intrest. So point being, it's for kids, don't expect anything from it.

And then we get the best of the best by Alan Menken. I call this, The Rage of Menken. Because he just goes all out with this soundtrack. Most importantly in the "Santcuary/And He Shall Smite the Wicked"... I think he just had a blast with that scene. Just listen to it and you're like, woah. I think it just captures the theme of the book to a "T". And if you take Latin, the choir is chanting actual words and phrases that correspond in what is happening in the scene. I find this to be the best of the soundtrack.

The Bells of Notre Dame--Makes more of an impact on screen when seeing all the characters for the last time. But still, it gives another moral to the kids, and it also answered the question in the begining of the movie, "what makes a monster and what makes a man?" Perfect. :)

And then there is "Someday". I love Someday, I'm not a fan of One-4-All singing it but it's good. I just would have liked a man and a woman duet of it, or perhaps just a woman singing it.

God Help the Outcasts sung by Bette Midler is torture to my ears. I just don't like that song being sung by her and I feel that he place on the soundtrack was just a bad choice. The song is just not something I would see her singing, her voice is unfit for it (watch Hocus Pocus, watch Gypsy). She's better singing songs that she can belt to. This one she tries to belt to, but it just sounds like crap.

In the end, out of all the Disney soundtracks, this is a true beauty. You get amazing lyrics, talented singers, and beautiful music. This deserves a spot on your shelf. Buy it now. And if you have not seen the movie, SEE IT. You'll love it, not over it's inconsistancies, but perhaps the moral of the story.

The Darkest of Menken's Scores!.......2005-11-23

WIth the exception of Beauty and the Beast, The Hunchback of NOtre Dame is by far DIsney's Best. THe songs are haunting and gorgeous, with the rich flavoring of a gothic chorus.
THough this is not the best for very young children, I am fifteen and I still absolutely love it!
The Bells of NOtre Dame, Feast of Fools, God Help the Outcasts, Hellfire, Sanctuary!, Paris is burning, He shall smite the wicked, and the bells of NOtre Dame REprise are all excellent and fit the mood and story perfectly. The only oddball is "A Guy Like you" sung by the gargoyles for no reason other than to add a lighter, commical moment to the rest of the film's oppressive atmosphere.
WHile I did not like the pop songs and reditions at the end, the score and original songs themselves were so incredibly awesome.
THis is a must get CD, no questions asked!

Awesome Disney soundtrack.......2005-11-07

When I first saw this movie (I was probably around ten), I didn't think much of it, but now I realize what a majestic soundtrack this movie provides. Even though I love Disney music, and I jump to buy a soundtrack, this has to be one of my favorites. My favorite song has to be "Hellfire" (alas, I am a Frollo fan), because there's never been and probably won't be a song like it. The fact that he's a man of God and is singing about his lust for Esmeralda is just stunning. The instrumental tracks are wonderful as well (I love "The Bell Tower"). If you ever get the chance to own this CD, do so. You won't be sorry you did!

Average customer rating: shirley Dame Bassey is still making great CD's The Tigress of Tiger Bay - Still Fierce at 70! INCREDIBLE! THE LIVING TREE -CD/DVD

The Living Tree Dame Shirley Bassey Manufacturer: Umvd Import ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music Broadway & Vocalists | Imports | Stores | Music Pop | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: Get The Party Started Nobody Does It Like Me/Love, Life and Feelings Thank You for the Years Something Complete EMI Columbia Singles Collection ASIN: B000NA2U00 Release Date: 2007-04-30

Tracks:

1. Radio Edit
2. Full Version
3. Shaken And Stirred Mix
4. Stuart Crichton Mix
5. Superbass Vocal Mix
6. Shaken And Stirred Extended Mix
7. Superbass Extended Vocal Mix
8. Video - Spoken Intro
9. Video - The Living Tree

Album Description

Enhanced CD single from Dame Shirley Bassey taken from her 2007 Dame Shirley Bassey album, a very special modern remix project. Features nine versions of 'Living Tree': Radio Edit, Full Version, Shaken And Stirred Mix, Stuart Crichton Mix, Superbass Vocal Mix, Shaken And Stirred Extended Mix, Superbass Extended Vocal Mix, Spoken Intro and Enhanced Video. Lock Stock.

Album Details

Dame Shirley Hits the Dancefloor Once Again with a Full Tilt Boogie! this Song Showcases the Legendary Diva Smack in the Middle of her Element with her Incredible Voice Lifting the Entire Recording to the Ultimate Height! this Special EP Presents Three Primary Mixes by Stuart Crichton, Shaken and Stirred and Superbass Along with the Enhanced Promotional Video as Well as a Spoken Introduction to the Song.

Customer Reviews:

shirley.......2007-07-16

This woman could sing 30 years ago. and she sounds even better now.She is probably the only real diva in the world of music. will be buying the new cd soon.

Dame Bassey is still making great CD's.......2007-06-28

At 70 and still hitting those great notes. She is one of the best undiscovered singers in the USA but the world knows how great she is. Now and forever, what a voice.

The Tigress of Tiger Bay - Still Fierce at 70!.......2007-06-27

I have been a Bassey Fan for more than 40 years - and my love affair with her dynamic voice has yet to wane. This CD is an absolute MUST HAVE! Dame Shirley's rendition of "The Living Tree", like every other anthem of freedom she sings, reaches nerves and chords in the heart and soul that few singers know exist. Track 3, the 'Shaken and Stirred Mix', is "pure Bassey" - ever reminiscent of the eternal "Goldfinger". Track 5, the 'Superbass Vocal Remix' will shake you to your knees. Truly, though, any version is worth the price of this CD.

INCREDIBLE!.......2007-06-06

Yes!!! This is amazing to think that She is the same person who sang Goldfinger some 40 years ago!!! At 70 years old Shirley Bassey still inspires and gives lessons of talent to all generations. Not only she sings pitch perfect (not big news) and loud but she DOES look fantastic and if you have never seen her on stage, well you missed a lot. She is a riot LOL Joking with the audience, making fun of herself and so sexy that some new "diva wannabees " (no names I dont want to be hated reLOL) could take lessons BIG TIME!
The Living Tree sounds very Bassey, I mean very powerful, could have been a James theme (another!). the remixes are great and the bonus videos are worth just for the song intro.
Just cant wait for the album soon to be released.
Thank you Dame Bassey for your class and thank you Shirley for all these years of fun.
Your are forever!

THE LIVING TREE -CD/DVD.......2007-05-24

This CD IS THE BEST I HAVE HEARD IN YEARS !!!! SHE IS IN TOP FORM !!!!!
However, I can't get the DVD to play ?? Any suggestions from previous reviewers or present owners ?

Average customer rating: Spectacular i would give this musical more stars if i could I would. . . A journey with Esmeralda Notre Dame de Paris

Notre Dame de Paris Richard Cocciante , and Luc Plamondon Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Israel | Middle East | International | Styles | Music Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Musicals | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Notre Dame de Paris Notre Dame de Paris (2000 Studio Cast) [Epic] Romeo & Juliette Le Petit Prince Seul ASIN: B00004U2EZ Release Date: 2000-06-27

Tracks:

1. Le Temps Des Cathedrales
2. Les Sans-Papiers
3. Bohemienne
4. Belle
5. Tu Vas Me Detruire
6. La Cour Des Miracles
7. Ave Maria Paien
8. Florence
9. Les Cloches
10. Etre Pretre Et Aimer Une Femme
11. Dechire
12. La Monture
13. Dieu Que Le Monde Est Injuste
14. Vivre
15. Lune
16. Danse Mon Esmeralda

Customer Reviews:

Spectacular.......2006-07-13

This music is simply breathtaking. Just especially beautiful. I have both this version, the two-CD complete version, and the English. The two-CD set (I think 52 tracks) is the best. This is second best. The music in this abridged CD is not presented in chronological order, however, and sometimes, due to this and the missing tracks, there is something lacking. However, it's just gorgeous music.

The acoustics are amazing. I'm not sure if this is really noticeable unless you hear it immediately before or after the English version. The cast is absolutely amazing. There is so much emotion in their voices.

I'm surprised there is so little about Richard Cocciante, the composer. This music is some of the best I've heard. I would have thought there was an abundance of music written by Richard Cocciante that I haven't heard. From what I can find out online, there isn't. This is just a masterpiece.

There are many reviewers who mention the translation issue. If you think of this as a popular musical, I can see that the translation may be an issue. However, think of it as an opera-- which it also is (not in the classical sense). We don't concern ourselves with the translation of La Traviata, La Boheme. Same with this. . . just enjoy the music.

If you can possibly find the 2 CD complete set (sometimes available for download elsewhere, find it before purchasing this. But, if you can't find it, get this. Also, as a side note. . . the DVD has the entire libretto included and offers English subtitles.

i would give this musical more stars if i could.......2006-05-07

i am so in love with this musical. it was the first french musical i'd ever seen. my french teacher showed it to the whole class after we had translated every single song into english. the hard work definitely paid off. the musical was amazing. i immediately fell in love and became obsessed. i couldn't stop listening to the CD. i love garou and bruno pelletier. they're both very talented, along with everyone else in the musical.

i really want to buy the two-disc CD, but i can't find it. does anyone know where i can buy it?

I would. . ........2006-01-26

. . . highly recommend this album. the songs are beautiful and the singers seem to carry over the emotions that the characters feel to the listener. AWESOME!

A journey with Esmeralda.......2006-01-19

When I first saw the perfomance of Notre Dame de Paris by original francophone troupe of singers for the first time, right away I fell in love with the music of Riccardo Cocciante and the gorgeous voices of the singers.

Being lucky to be able to understand the lyrics, I was pleasantly surprised by the awesome lyrics of Luc Plamondon, even if the lyrics are not necessary to understand the mood and the emotions that the songs transmit, knowing the words helps you to completely immerse into the play and feel the same emotions that the play characters, to live the story yourself.

With "Bohemienne" we see a clear picture of a young gypsy girl wandering in the mountains and valleys of Andalusia, playful and free, a little sad because she lives only for the present, every tomorrow is a new mystery, a new journey.

"Belle" depicts a stunning young woman, with sensual moves and penetrating eyes, dancing on the square while all the men are ready to do anything to be with her.

"Tu va me detruire" demonstrates the unconrolled desire of the priest towards Esmeralda, the man who dedicated all his life to sience and religion who now is ready to surpass all his beliefs, descend to hell only if she would be his. While he is discovering his dark side, Esmeralda falls in love with a beau captaine, Phoebus, who is betraying his fiancée with her.

Meanwhile his fiancée Fleur de Lys is reflecting on how to get her loved one back : in "La monture" she makes plan of vegeance to Esmeralda, she is calling her a witch, the hatred and jelousy are overtaking her while she says to Phoebus "I will come back to you only if Esmeralda will be executed ".

As the story ends the spectator/listener is taken over by
the desperation of innocent and proud Esmeralda before being executed, the depth and the eternity of Quasimodo's feelings.

I really love all the singers and ever since I have Notre Dame de Paris I don't miss an album by any of the singers from the musical. I have discovered for myself such great artists as Garou, Bruno Pelletier, Patrick Fiori.


It's a must for everyone!

Notre Dame de Paris.......2005-09-25

Excellent CD if you want to listen to opera in short. However, if you are really interested, it's better to buy a 2-disc edition or a DVD to enjoy this wonderful music in full.

Average customer rating: An aural treat for lovers of vocal music Enchanting If Angels Ever Recorded A CD another exquisite performance Anonymous, but in no way generic

A Portrait Of Anonymous 4 Anonymous , Hildegard of Bingen , and Anonymous 4 Manufacturer: Harmonia Mundi Fr. ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Hildegard of Bingen | ( H ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Anonymous 4 | ( A ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Masses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Choruses | Opera & Vocal | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Choruses | Opera & Vocal | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music Classical | Imports | Stores | Music $6.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Hildegard of Bingen | ( H ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Anonymous 4 | ( A ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Similar Items: American Angels Gloryland 1000: A Mass for the End of Time / Anonymous 4 The Origin of Fire: Music and Visions of Hildegard von Bingen Wolcum Yule: Celtic and British Songs and Carols - Anonymous 4 with Andrew Lawrence-King ASIN: B0000007HW Release Date: 1997-04-10

Tracks:

1. Miracles Of Sant'Iago: Music From The Codex Calixtinus: Venite omnes cristicole
2. Miracles Of Sant'Iago: Music From The Codex Calixtinus: Ad superni regis decus
3. Miracles Of Sant'Iago: Music From The Codex Calixtinus: Portum in ultimo
4. The Lily & The Lamb: Chant & Polyphony From Medieval England: O Maria stella maris
5. The Lily & The Lamb: Chant & Polyphony From Medieval England: Stabat iuxta Christi crucem
6. The Lily & The Lamb: Chant & Polyphony From Medieval England: Stillat in stellam radium
7. A Star In The East: Medieval Hungarian Christmas Music: Primo tempore alleviata
8. A Star In The East: Medieval Hungarian Christmas Music: Speciosus forma
9. A Star In The East: Medieval Hungarian Christmas Music: Mi Atyank Atya Isten
10. Love's Illusion: Music From The Montpellier Codex: Puisque bele dame m'eime - Flos Filius
11. Love's Illusion: Music From The Montpellier Codex: Ne sai, que je die - Iohanne
12. Love's Illusion: Music From The Montpellier Codex: Amor potest conqueri - Ad amorem sequitur
13. Love's Illusion: Music From The Montpellier Codex: Quant yver la bise ameine - In Seculum
14. Love's Illusion: Music From The Montpellier Codex: On doit fin(e) Amor - La Biaute - In Seculum
15. An English Ladymass: Medieval Chant & Polyphony: Edi beo thu hevene quene
16. An English Ladymass: Medieval Chant & Polyphony: Ave maris stella
17. An English Ladymass: Medieval Chant & Polyphony: Salve virgo virginum
18. On Yoolis Night: Medieval Carols & Motets: Ther Is No Rose Of swych vertu
19. On Yoolis Night: Medieval Carols & Motets: Prolis eterne genitor - psallat mater gracie
20. On Yoolis Night: Medieval Carols & Motets: Ecce quod natura
21. Spiritui sancto

Amazon.com

This sampler album of excerpts from seven other Anonymous 4 releases is a good introduction for anyone who is unacquainted with the A4's startlingly pure singing and virtually celestial blend. But if you fall under the spell of this outstanding a capella quartet, the present disc will become extraneous because you'll want to own the complete recordings from which it's drawn. If you prefer complete works to samplers, try taking the plunge with "An English Ladymass" or "On Yoolis Night." --Sarah Bryan Miller

Customer Reviews:

An aural treat for lovers of vocal music.......2007-04-14

If you love vocal music these gals are fabulous! This is a best of album, which is always good as an introduction to a new artist. It gives you a taste of their various albums, so you can go ahead and pursue the ones you like. Enjoy!

Enchanting.......2007-01-10

If you enjoy music that takes you to a different time and place, you will get lost in time with this beautiful work.

If Angels Ever Recorded A CD.......2006-03-16

Four female voices have never blended together so perfectly and beautifully as do those of the 'Anonymous 4.' Their CD titled, 'Portrait' contains a selection of tracks from seven other previous CD's, kind of a "Best Of" you might say.

If angels ever came down from heaven to record a CD this is what they would sound like.

Harmonious, Celestial, Purifying and Eternal.

another exquisite performance.......2006-02-27

This amazing quartette is so talented. The Christmas cd reminds me of Christmas 50 years ago in rural England where I grew up. It contains the only rendition of The Holly and the Ivy I have heard that actually does the carol justice.

Anonymous, but in no way generic.......2001-02-04

I learned about this quartet though a review in Stereophile magazine. Although they don't publish a lot of reviews, I've had exceptionally good luck with their past picks and have been able to branch out successfully in new musical directions as a result.

These four women are virtuoso female vocalists, hauntingly pure of voice. They perform music from centuries ago in the same type of setting that it was originally performed in, with stunning results. I'm generally not one for "religious" material (this is the first recording of this nature I've ever bought), but this music goes so far back in time that it sounds more primal than Christian overall.

A refreshing change when you're in the right mood, and something that can relax even you type A personalities out there (and you *know* who you are :) , I can suggest this one without reserve. You'll be adding a nice, quiet corner to your collection, and you'll probably wind up visiting it more than you ever imagined.

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