Monaco [Import]

Product Description
Sophomore album from New Order side project featuring bassist, Peter Hook. Includes the first single, 'I've Got A Feeling'. 10 tracks. 2000.

Monaco,Monaco,Rock/Pop

Average customer rating: The End of the Big Voice? Fla Gator Lady 20 Great Tenor Arias Plesantly surprised... Absolutely Agree About Corelli

Nessun Dorma ~ 20 Great Tenor Arias / Pavarotti, Carreras, Domingo, Bergonzi, Aragall, Björling, Di Stefano, Kollo, Corelli, Del Monaco... Manufacturer: Decca ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Donizetti | Donizetti, Gaetano | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Flotow | Flotow, Friedrich von | ( F ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Leoncavallo | Leoncavallo, Ruggiero | ( L ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Massenet | Massenet, Jules | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Meyerbeer | Meyerbeer, Giacomo | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Offenbach | Offenbach, Jacques | ( O ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Ponchielli | Ponchielli, Amilcare | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Puccini | Puccini, Giacomo | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Verdi | Verdi, Giuseppe | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Wagner | Wagner, Richard | ( W ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra | ( B ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra | ( V ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Compilations | Classical | Styles | Music Romances | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Arias | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music French | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music Similar Items: The Most Famous Opera Duets The Most Famous Opera Arias Paul Potts [United Kingdom]: One Chance The #1 Opera Album The Best of Italian Opera ASIN: B000007OTX Release Date: 1998-06-09

Tracks:

1. La Boheme: Che gelida manina
2. Manon Lescaut: Donna non vidi mai
3. Carmen Bizet: La fleur que tu m'avais jetee (Flower Song)
4. Luisa Miller: O! fede negar potessi .. Quando le sere al placido
5. La Traviata: Lunge da lei ... De' miei bollenti spiriti
6. Martha: M'appari
7. Giordano: Amor ti vieta
8. L'Africaine: Mi batte il cuor .. O paradiso
9. La Favorita: Favorita del re . . . Spirto gentil
10. Werther: 'Pourquoi me reveiller'
11. Die Meistersinger von Nurnberg: 'Morgenlich leuchtend in rosigem Schein'
12. Les Contes d'Hoffmann: O Dieu! De quelle ivresse
13. TOSCA: E lucevan le stelle
14. Pagliacci: Recitar! ... Vesti la giubba
15. Il Trovatore: Di quella pira
16. Aida: Se quel guerrier .. Celeste Aida
17. TOSCA: Recondita armonia
18. L'Elisir d'Amore: Una furtiva lagrima
19. La Gioconda: Cielo e mar!
20. Turandot: Nessun dorma

Customer Reviews:

The End of the Big Voice?.......2007-04-16

This CD, which is truly fine overall, reminds me of Marilyn Horne's lament that we have probably seen the end of the big voice and it makes me sad. I agree with the reviewer who refers to "microphonies". And more justice could be done to Bjorling's voice with a better transfer. But at some point, music becomes a matter of taste and I prefers singers who have the instrument and the support and the training, whether formal or not, to just let fly and take a chance on making a mistake. Domingo can be wonderful and so can his musicianship but he tends to be so stiff. I have to wonder at the virulence and asperity with which some people go after Pavarotti. It's true that late in his career he made some questionable recordings but the answer to that is simple: don't buy them. At his best, he belongs for all time in the top echelon of tenors. I love this CD and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys great (big) voices.

Fla Gator Lady.......2007-01-12

Highly recommend this CD with these beloved arias of the greatest tenors in opera. I have owned this CD for a couple of years and purchased another for a friend who always requests that I play it ... perfect for listening in the car, dinner, bridge games, relaxation ... just so perfect. You won't be disappointed in this one.

20 Great Tenor Arias.......2007-01-09

A great disc,combination of the greatest tenors of the 20th century and some of the most beautiful music ever written in any century,a must addition to any opera lovers collection.

Plesantly surprised..........2006-01-14

I don't remember how I found this CD the other day surfing through the "Amazon" such as it is, but I did. I listened to a few clips provided & on the strength of that, I purchased this CD.

First it is a great buy. A booklet with pictures of each tenor, a small bio, the year recorded and TRANSLATIONS of each aria are provided. This is really nice. It seems more & more that translations are being left out. Being a former opera singer, I may know most of the words, but sometimes it's just nice to read along (sometimes it's just nice to listen too).

Being on the Decca label, there is admittedly quite a few Pavarotti selections. Out of 20 selections, he has 6 of them. But I love Pavarotti, so this is no problem for me. These are all early recordings & his voice is magnificent! Being a singer, I still marvel at his ability to sing "All'armi!" on a high D and still say the 2nd syllable "mi" on such a note! WOW. There is also of course his very sweet, impassioned and lyrical turn as Rodolfo in "La Boheme" as well as the lesser known (although I still have it on casette) "La Favorita" which has a particularly high tessitura.

Also featured are a young Plácido Domingo singing a VERY nice "Flower song/ La fleur que tu m'avais jetée" from Carmen. He usually sounds too pushed for me on the top notes (as one might expect from a Pavarotti fan, I like free top notes) but in this recording he is pretty darn fabulous. He also sings an aria from "Tales of Hoffman/Les Contes d'Hoffman" and I have always felt that he, like Neil Schicoff, were well suited to this role.

Lamentably there are only one selection each from Carreras, Correlli, Monaco, Aragall & Kollo. Especial kudos to the young recording they feature for Aragall. He had a very free and nice high tenor well suited to Verdi. Of course as his career went forward with the natural darkening of his voice and the "heavier" roles, he did start to develop a wobble. But this recording is before that. His top, his phrasing are all beautifully done in his featured aria from "La Traviata."
Mario del Monaco's "E lucevan le stelle" is hauntingly beautiful and has such a wonderful pianissimo in it that it makes you just want to gasp for beauty's sake. I now know every tenor I've heard sing this aria was trying to emulate what he did.

This is a great CD because it does bring together on one CD some of the greatest singers of the 20th/21st century. Bergonzi, di Stefano, Björling, in addition to the previously mentioned artists is quite an impressive collection. I'm sure there's only one of each for Carreras, Aragall (I believe they are formerly EMI/Angel artists) and perhaps some of the others because they are "imported" from another label. There's so much Pavarotti on this CD because he IS a Decca artist.

A highly recommended CD, affordable, not the usually obscure and unpolished artists that are sometimes found on compilations. Plus acutal linear notes and translations. Nicely done, Decca!!!

Absolutely Agree About Corelli.......2005-05-27

Franco Corelli's "Nessun Dorma" is still the best of them all - clear, passionate, and exciting. (And those final two notes...! Gives me chills just to think of it.) I was fortunate enough to see him live in both "Turandot" and "Romeo and Juliet" a year before his retirement, and he was still a Calaf and a Romeo to die for... as, of course, Liu and Juliet did! As it is, I tend to buy compilations depending on how much Corelli they include - though Bjorling is a strong second, and I have happy memories of Domingo. Long live the Golden Age of Operatic Tenors!

Average customer rating: Weekend in Monaco Weekend in Monaco Ah the memories... Their last real good CD!!! Starts great - Ends great

Weekend in Monaco The Rippingtons Manufacturer: Grp Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Jazz | Styles | Music Smooth Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Orchestral Pop | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music GRP | Verve Music Group | Specialty Stores | Music Similar Items: Tourist in Paradise Curves Ahead Kilimanjaro Welcome to the St. James' Club Moonlighting ASIN: B0000001S9 Release Date: 1992-08-18

Tracks:

1. Weekend In Monaco
2. St. Tropez
3. Vienna
4. Indian Summer
5. A Place For Lovers
6. Carnival!
7. Moka Java
8. Highroller
9. Where The Road Will Lead Us

Customer Reviews:

Weekend in Monaco.......2007-06-19

The very first song is sets the stage for an enjoyable listen for this entire CD.

Weekend in Monaco.......2007-01-18

This is one of my favorite CD's from my favorite smooth jazz band. Great music, phenomenal talent...

Ah the memories..........2006-11-10

I was a wierd little kid. On one hand, I listened to Nirvana and Soundgarden and loved them. But when i was home, in my nerdly kingdom of a room, I popped this CD in. Then, and only then was i truly happy. Painting my Games Workshop miniatures. You see, there's gotta be something about the Rippington's music to appeal to a kid with no jazz knowledge to speak of. Years later, free from potential ridicule, i can relax and listen to the Rippingtons and truly understand that music like this can provide an atmosphere, or motivate a mood.

Speaking to those of you who like mainstream music. If you want something more out of music, something more substantial and classy than the crap out there now, Weekend in Monaco is your portal. Just don't let your friends catch you listening to it.

Their last real good CD!!!.......2006-01-31

After several years in a row of great CD's...who would have thought that The Rippington's would have started on a downward spiral that would cause many loyal fans to distance themselves from them. This is their last real good CD!!! I don't care what anyone say's after this it was a bunch of ups and downs. Perhaps, it was all the personnel changes that affected their music the most. This set starts out with the excellent title track...followed by one of my favorite songs of all time by them called St. Tropez. The guitar solo at the end is one of Russ's best and uses some of his catchiest phrasings ever. Also listen to the great bass lines by Kim Stone. He's a superb player!!! This is in my opinion the best song on the CD!!! After this the track Vienna is the typical acoustic/classical guitar-led song that the Ripps are also known for. Indian Summer is an up tempo techno-jazz/rock type song. It's okay, but not really the kind of music that I like from them or anyone else. A Place For Lovers is a slow bossa-nova style-song that is very nice and relaxing to listen to. Carnival is a Latin-style song that I enjoy, but eventually would become their dominant style on later CD's. Moka Java has a new world music type feel...the percussion playing by Steve Reid is great on this one. Highroller is another high energy techno-jazz style song. It's a pretty good song overall. Where The Road Will Lead Us is a dreamy song...the kind of song that you would like to listen to before you go to bed. A fitting ending to a CD well-worth buying. I made a conscience decision to buy this one long ago and listened to it while I wrote this review so that I could better educate the potential buyer.

Starts great - Ends great.......2005-10-04

Weekend in Monaco is an outstanding effort by the Ripps. A great addition to any jazz lover's collection.

Average customer rating:

High Society: Jazz Masterpieces from the Dixieland Era Manufacturer: Opening Day Ent ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Canadian Brass | ( C ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Jazz | Styles | Music Vocal Jazz General | Vocal Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music Classic Big Band | Swing Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Similar Items: Brahms: Violin Concerto and Double Concerto [SA-CD - CD compatible] Einstein: His Life and Universe ASIN: B000Q364L0 Release Date: 2007-06-12

Average customer rating: A Pleasure to listen to . . . Very good album Newer Order hidden treasure Shine!

Music for Pleasure Monaco Manufacturer: A&M ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Britpop | British Alternative | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Alternative Dance | Alternative Styles | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Twisted Tenderness The Other Two & You Raise the Pressure One True Passion 2.0 Electronic ASIN: B000002GNR Release Date: 1997-07-01

Tracks:

1. What Do You Want From Me?
2. Shine
3. Sweet Lips
4. Buzz Gum
5. Blue
6. Junk
7. Billy Bones
8. Happy Jack
9. Tender
10. Under The Stars
11. Sedona

Album Description

Debut album by New Order bassist Peter Hook's newband, featuring the singles 'What Do You Want From Me','Sweet Lips' & 'Shine'. 10 tracks total.NOTE: this is the U.K. edition, availabletwo-three weeks ahead of the U.S. (bumped up to July 1, inan effort to

Album Details

Tracklisting What Do You Want from Me Shine Sweet Lips Buzz Gum Blue Junk Billy Bones Happy Jack Tender Sedona

Customer Reviews:

A Pleasure to listen to . . . .......2006-04-17

Although Peter Hook is first and foremost New Order's oh-so-distinctive bassist, his side work (Revenge, Monaco) has also been interesting and worthwhile. Music For Pleasure is no exception. Other reviewers have mentioned how different songs on this album sound like Oasis or Portishead tracks -- and they're absolutely right. There's also some techno, and even some disco (#3 - Sweet Lips) thrown in. In that respect, the album has a total lack of consistency -- there's no unifying theme and stylistically it's a hodgepodge. That would kill a lesser album (or a lesser group), but for Monaco it's a virtue. Every song's different, and every song is still a gem. Peter Hook's the centerpiece here, but the lyrics are thoughtful, and David Pott's singing and guitar work are great too.

This isn't New Order, but if you're a NO fan, this shouldn't disappoint. I actually bought this album and NO's Get Ready the same day, and I like this one muuuch better. It's a great album, and the name suits it perfectly.

Very good album.......2006-01-29

I bought this album in 1997, when it came out, but I never really listened to it completely. Today I have listened to it and I was surprised. Very very good, even better than some New Order albums. Good melodies and good guitar work. What do you want from me isn't the only good song on the album.

Newer Order.......2005-12-30

Monaco only proves that Peter Hook was/is much more than New Order's bass player. Clearly, Monaco establishes the fact that Hook was/is one of the primary songwriters in the band. He might be THE songwriting force behind the band. These songs echo New Order (especially when a certain and most distinct bass dances it way through every song). Any fan will instantly recognize the melodies, beats, arrangements, and overall feel of NO. Even the vocals could have been lifted right off of a recent NO release. And that is no bad thing. If it helps, think of this as another great New Order offering.

Song-wise, one could easily believe this is just a slight trip down a new path for the band. However, knowing this is Hook's post-Revenge side project, there are some creative twists and turns. Some hear an Oasis hook or two amongst Hook's hooks (sorry!) and I am no exception. There are moments when I imagine Peter and Noel Gallagher sitting in a room together (with bass and guitar in hand, respectively) banging out some very catchy tunes. Again, this is no bad thing. Both are master songwriters.

There are even hints of the Pet Shop Boys' pop-genius here. Certainly, Monaco has sprinkles of other-greatness flavoring every song. No doubt, David Potts (with Hook's Revenge) contributes no small part to this masterpiece. Blending what's best of the 80's with what's best of the 90's, this is one unique breed of sound.

This all happens in a context that is way past Hook's Revenge stage. No longer is he feeling the need to escape that New Order sound- his sound (that persistent, driving, melodic bass). Here, Hook embraces all that he is, all that New Order is, and ultimately, all that Monaco is. This is a mature, expansive, emotional, danceable, and beautiful thing. This is music for the sake of music. In one word... PURE.

Monaco is, in retrospect, after hearing NO's Get Ready and Waiting for the Sirens' Call, the fulcrum at which NO's past meets and welcomes the future. It is a seminal moment in New Order's timeline, and a completely unique thing unto itself as the transient but evolutionary Monaco. But it is truly impossible to deny that Monaco plays a pivotal role in the New Order story.

This cd oozes with melody. There's nothing here that will offend any New Order fan. Think of it as New Order bonus material. Really good bonus material. It is both transitional and original. It is certainly good and New. Inspirational and... music for pleasure, indeed!

hidden treasure.......2005-10-22

New order side project. I love it. I think this one is a underated synth gem

Shine!.......2005-08-26

After Revenge, Peter went on to write some music together with David Potts (also in Revenge) but not under the same umbrella. They need a name-change. A fresh start. So I bought their first single WDYWFM in februari 1997 and was very enthusiastic about it. Second single Sweet Lips was a great pop single (the bass sounds like Vicious Circle, b-side from New Order's Ruined In A Day) and the 3rd single (Shine) was absolutely 'hooky' ;-) The album is full of surprises, dance music & rocky stuff...

Average customer rating: Why 5... Find Out! Callas Aida, Mex. City, 1951 Callas's most famous Aida -- all I can say is wow All hail to the E Flat Goddess Nuclear Aida!!!

Verdi: Aida (complete opera live 1951) with Maria Callas, Mario del Monaco, Oliviero de Fabritis, Orchestra & Chorus of del Palacio de Bellas Artes, Mexico City Manufacturer: EMI Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Verdi | Verdi, Giuseppe | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | 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 Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Similar Items: Verdi: La Traviata (complete opera live 1955) with Maria Callas, Giuseppe di Stefano, Carlo Maria Giulini, Orchestra & Chorus of La Scala, Milan Puccini: Madama Butterfly (complete opera) with Maria Callas, Lucia Danieli, Nicolai Gedda, Herbert von Karajan, Chorus & Orchestra of La Scala, Milan Verdi: Macbeth (complete opera live 1952) with Maria Callas, Enzo Mascherini, Victor de Sabata, Orchestra & Chorus of La Scala, Milan Donizetti: Anna Bolena (complete opera live 1957) with Maria Callas, Gianni Raimondi, Gianandrea Gavazzeni, Orchestra & Chorus of La Scala, Milan Donizetti: Lucia di Lammermoor (complete opera) EMI's Great Recordings of the Century with Maria Callas, Giuseppe di Stefano, Tito Gobbi, Tullio Serafin ASIN: B0000BWTKC Release Date: 2003-11-04

Tracks:

1. Preludio
2. Si, Corre Voce Che L'Etiope Ardisca
3. Se Quel Guerriero Io Fossi!
4. Celeste Aida
5. Quale Insolita Gioia Nel Tuo Sguardo!
6. Vieni, O Diletta, Appressati
7. Alta Cagion V'aduna
8. Su! Del Nilo Al Sacro Lido
9. Ritorna Vincitor!
10. Possente Ftha...Tu Che Dal Nulia Hai Tratto
11. Immenso Ftha!...Mortal, Diletto Ai Numi
12. Nume, Custode E Vindice
13. Chi Mai Fra Gl'inni E I Plausi
14. Dance Of The Moorish Slaves
15. Vieni, Sul Crin Ti Piovano
16. Fu La Sorte Dell'armi A' Tuoi Funesta
17. Pieta Ti Prenda Del Mio Dolor
18. Su! Del Nilo Al Sacro Lido...Numi, Pieta
19. Gloria All'Egitto, Ad Iside
20. Triumphal March
21. Ballet
22. Vieni, O Guerriero Vindice
23. Salvator Della Patria
24. Che Veggo! Egli? Mio Padre!...Anch'io Pugnai...Ma Tu, Re, Tu Signore Possente
25. Il Dolor Che In Quel Volto Favella
26. O Re, Pei Sacri Numi...Gloria All'Egitto

Tracks:

1. O Tu Che Sei D'Osiride
2. Vieni D'Iside Al Tempio
3. Qui Radames Verra!
4. O Patria Mia
5. Ciel! Mio Padre!
6. Rivedrai Le Foreste Imbalsamate
7. Pur Ti Riveggo, Mia Dolce Aida
8. Nel Fiero Anelito Di Nuova Guerra
9. Fuggiam Gli Ardori Inospiti...La, Tra Foreste Vergini
10. Ma Dimmi: Per Qual Via
11. L'aborrita Rivale A Me Sfuggia
12. Gia I Sacerdoti Adunansi
13. Ohime! Morir Mi Sento!
14. Spirto Del Nume
15. A Lui Vivo, La Tomba!...Sacerdoti: Compiste Un Delitto!
16. La Fatal Pietra Sovra Me Si Chiuse
17. Vedi? Di Morte L'angelo...Immenso Ftha
18. O Terra, Addio

Customer Reviews:

Why 5... Find Out!.......2006-10-12

This Aida is perhaps the best I've ever heard. Even in the libretto it states that it is a full-blooded performance. I whole-heartedly agree. Callas, once again giving her exciting performances in Mexico City, turns her Aida into the stuff of legend. Again. Del Monaco is the best of any Radames. Yes, Domingo had the dramatic capability, but Del Monaco's overpowering voice should well be the trademark of the overpowering Egyptian military leader. Dominguez is the best of any Amneris I've heard, and also is mentioned in the libretto as having "opulent" tones. The word "opulent" doesn't begin to describe the effect she had on me in "L'aborrita rivale a me sfuggia". In the "Rivedrai le foreste imbalsamate" duet with Aida and Amonasro, Giuseppe Taddei tops all expectations, blowing back even Tito Gobbi. Altogether, this recording is a must even for people who hate Callas. 5 stars.

Callas Aida, Mex. City, 1951.......2006-07-21

Everyone is on fire in this performance. Singers today do not have that "fuoco". Thanks to recordings like these, opera fans of the post Callas era, like myself, can get a "glimpse" into her glorious past. Callas and Del Monaco soar over everything else in the second act! And of course, the famous E flat! O. Dominguez as Amneris! I became an instant fan; hard to find other recordings of her. Some of the reviewers refer to Anmeris as Simionato, it is Dominguez! Taddei is perfect as Amonasro - great visceral singing- no baritones like him around anymore. Who cares if the sound is not perfect? I like all the environmental sounds, it makes me feel like I am right there. I only listen to live stuff anyway, because it is the real deal; I find most studio recordings boring. It is the best AIDA I have heard. Get it!

Callas's most famous Aida -- all I can say is wow.......2006-02-17

This 1951 Mexico City performance of Aida has become legendary, largely due to Callas's unbelievable performance in the title role. Aida was not a role strongly associated with Callas (the way, say, Norma was). She dropped it from her repertoire in 1953, only making a studio recording in 1955, which I always found to be a disappointment.
But in this 1951 Mexico City performance, Callas was on fire. Her voice of course never had the glowing beauty of a Tebaldi or Price, but Callas makes her Aida a firy princess. Her "Ritorna vincitor" might be the best sung version I've ever heard. Rosa Ponselle and Giannina Arangi-Lombardi and Renata Tebaldi may sound more beauty but Callas inflects the text to great emotional effect. Her "O patria mia" is a rough moment -- high C was always a rough note for Callas, and she can't sing it "dolce" as marked in the score. But her Act 3 duets with del Monaco and Taddei are remarkable, as is her "O terra addio." And of course, she caps off the Triumphal Scene with the famous E-flat that lasts 7 seconds (yes I've counted). Legend has it that in 1950, when she sang Aida at Mex City with Kurt Baum, she was so annoyed with the tenor that she did the E-flat at the Triumphal Scene. It worked so well that the next year she tried the same stunt.
The rest of the cast is strong. I prefer a Radames who is better able to control dynamics like Franco Corelli or Carlo Bergonzi. Mario del Monaco seems to sing in two ways -- loud and louder. But del Monaco is certainly stentorian and heroic and there just aren't voices like him anymore. Giuseppe Taddei is a wonderfully nasty Amonasoro. His voice practically drips hatred and bitterness. And Oralia Dominguez is not as well-known as the rest of the cast but she's terrific nonetheless, with a beautiful, powerful mezzo voice.
The sound is admittedly bad, but the performance more than makes up for it.

All hail to the E Flat Goddess.......2005-08-23

I have always love Aida I have heard 3 versions but nothing can compare to this. Although the recording quality is terrible, this 1951 gala captures The La Divina in the prime of her vocal prowess. The first time I heard the e flat in the Triumphant schene, my jaw dropped.I could not describe the feeling I had that time. I just closed my eyes and thank the Creator above for giving the world "Maria Callas the greatest suprano in living memory".

Nuclear Aida!!!.......2005-03-18

Ever imagine a large voiced Callas singing Aida? Here it is! Ever wanted her paired with an amazing Radames with a large, robust voice? You have it here! What about an explosive Amneris? Oralia Dominguez is also cast in this performance! What about a 12-second, interpolated E-flat? Callas sings it, and with a huge blazing voice too! Very unlike the standard canary E-flats you hear today! What about a great performance and a dramatically convincing Aida with Giuseppe Taddei as Amonasro? Well, this is it! Although her fabulous studio Aida wasn't as accepted as the Price Aida, this live recording from Mexico puts Leontyne's recording to second place. No other Aida will be able to achieve such a miraculous job of singing the role with that kind of forza, and with that kind of passion. The studio recording with Callas is recommended too, if you want to hear the several colors of Aida.

Average customer rating: Resurrection of an Old LP Compilation Vintage Renata

The Best of Tebaldi Manufacturer: Decca ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Boito, Arrigo | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Puccini | Puccini, Giacomo | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Tebaldi, Renata | ( T ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | 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 The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music Similar Items: Grandi Voci: Renata Tebaldi Very Best of Tebaldi and Corelli: Great Opera Duets La Tebaldi Montserrat Caballé: Ultimate Collection ASIN: B0002L2XUC Release Date: 2004-10-12

Customer Reviews:

Resurrection of an Old LP Compilation .......2007-03-09

I bought this compilation on a London LP back in the seventies. I listened to it until I wore it out. They wisely began the disc with probably the best recording she ever made, that of Si, mi chiamano Mimi, from La Boheme. The singing on that cut is so ravishing and inspired. All the other cuts are almost as good, except for the one from La fanciulla del West; there she was past her prime, but it's a great aria. Instead, they should have included her recording of O Patria Mia from AIDA. Tebaldi had something that even the great Caballe has never completely matched, and this CD really does represent her best work.

Vintage Renata.......2005-01-03

This recital, one of the series of "original cover" [in this case the English, not the American cover] albums that DECCA has been re-issuing, is a compilation-recital drawn from Tebaldi's many complete-opera sets.

TRACKLISTING

1 Sì. Mi chiamano Mimì (Mimì)
La Bohème Puccini
2 Donde lieta uscì al tuo grido (Mimì)
La Bohème Puccini
3 Vissi d'arte (Tosca)
Tosca Puccini
4 Laggiù nel Soledad (Minnie)
La fanciulla del West Puccini
5 Un bel dì, vedremo (Cio-cio-san)
Madama Butterfly Puccini
6 "Con onor muore" (Cio-cio-san)
Madama Butterfly Puccini
7 Signore, ascolta! (Liù)
Turandot Puccini
8 Tu che di gel sei cinta (Liù)
Turandot Puccini
9 La mamma morta (Maddalena)
Andrea Chénier Giordano
10 Io son l'umile ancella (Adriana)
Adriana Lecouvreur Cilèa
11 Poveri fiori (Adriana)
Adriana Lecouvreur Cilèa
12 L'altra notte in fondo al mare (Margherita)
Mefistofele Boïto

Carlo Bergonzi tenor (tracks 1 & 6)
Cornell MacNeil baritone (track 4)
Mario del Monaco tenor (track 8)
Orchestra e coro dell'Accademia di Santa Cecilia
Tullio Serafin (tracks 1, 2, 5, 6 & 12)
Francesco Molinari-Pradelli (track 3)
Franco Capuana (tracks 4, 10 & 11)
Alberto Erede (tracks 7 & 8)
Gianandrea Gavazzeni (track 9)

Her luminous, radiant voice was at her best here.

Now DECCA ought to re-issue Tebaldi's classic 1955 recital with Alberto Erede conducting, from which I particularly cherish the two items from Licinio Refice's CECILIA, an azione sacra from the 1930s that Tebaldi sings with a tenderness and glow that is guaranteed to bring tears to your eyes.

To know Renata is to love her, and so will you, if you hear this exquisite disc.

The several non-jet-setting conductors in this dic lead with un-flashy excellence and a gracious, Italianate regard for the needs of the singer: a lesson in STYLE.

Average customer rating: A "must Have" for Fans of Villa Lobos Magnificent work From the conductor sheer sonic lushness More than 25 minutes longer version

Villa-Lobos: Forest of the Amazon Manufacturer: Delos Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Villa-Lobos, Heitor | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Tone Poems | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Villa-Lobos, Heitor | Composers | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Latin Music | Styles | Music Similar Items: Villa-Lobos: Bachianas Brasileiras Nos. 1, 2, 5 & 9 / ORTF National Orchestra, De Los Angeles Villa-Lobos: Bachianas Brasileiras (Complete) Villa-Lobos: Choros 1-7 Villa-Lobos: Chôros Nos. 8 and 9 Villa-Lobos: Chôros No.11 ASIN: B00005B16V Release Date: 2001-04-03

Tracks:

1. Overture
2. Deep In the Forest
3. Excitement Among the Indians
4. First Bird Song
5. Nature's Dance
6. Second Bird Song
7. (Vocalise)
8. Sails
9. On the Way To the Hunt
10. Third Bird Song
11. Twilight Song
12. The Indians In Search of the Girl
13. Fourth Bird Song
14. Rima's Music
15. (Vocalise)
16. Head Hunters
17. Love Song
18. Sentimental Melody
19. Forest Fire
20. (Finale)

Customer Reviews:

A "must Have" for Fans of Villa Lobos.......2007-01-26

Previous reviews have noted the sound qualities of the earlier recording, conducted by the composer, released on EMI as "Inspiration Brazil" #7243 5 65880 2 8. That early recording (1958) has been enhanced in ways that are sonically interesting, but really a bit artificial -- for example, in places you can hear a single contra-bassoon "buzzing" over the entire ensemble. This is fascinating but not realistic sound. Dr. Heller's recording, on the other hand, is "real" and lively and vibrant. The playing is excellent, and the additional material, omitted from the 1958 recording, contributes to the whole. After all, it is more of the master's musical inventions, which I, for one, was delighted to hear. On first hearing, we find the unexpected progression a bit surprising -- not what we expected to hear -- but after a few sessions, we delight in the additional music.

Dr. Heller was a student of Villa Lobos, and in many ways, the present recording represents his homage to the master. Little is altered, more is added, and we are the richer for this wonderful new rendition of a little-heard masterpiece. See Dr. Heller's own review below.

I am reluctant to criticize such a great talent as Renee Fleming, but I actually prefer the singing of the wonderful Brazilian soprano Bidu Sayao on the 1958 recording. It is said that she came out of retirement in Maine (USA) to join Villa Lobos in New York to make the recording (there's a Wikipedia article about her). It's also worth noting that of the zillions of recordings of the 5th Bachianas Brasilieras (for soprano and 8 'cellos), hers is possibly the very best -- light, lyrical, sinuous, with the mystical sound that perfectly suits that haunting theme that blends the discpline of Bach with the "wildness" of the Brazilian frontier.

Bottom line -- if you like the nationalistic series of Villa Lobos' compositions, you should have this CD. Hats off to Dr. Heller for producing it.

Magnificent work.......2006-08-14

"Forest of the Amazon" dating from 1959 was one of Heitor Villa-Lobos' (1887-1959) last works. Much of the music was derived from the composer's film score to "Green Mansions" starring Audrey Hepburn and Anthony Perkins. However, the final score was provided by a different composer, who quoted Villa-Lobos here and there, but provided his own music elsewhere. According to the conductor, Alfred Heller, Villa-Lobos was very angry about this and, in response, developed "Forest of the Amazon" from his film score.

"Forest of the Amazon" is, more or less, a 74-minute symphonic poem. The work is divided into 20 sections here, however each section flows into another without a break. Despite the length, this work holds the listener's attention throughout. Villa-Lobos was a brilliant orchestrator and knew how to write a great melody. I was immediately lured into this work by the powerful and evocative overture (Track 1). Other exciting sections include "On the way to the Hunt" (Track 9) and "Head Hunters" (Track 16). The imaginative use of male voices and percussion definitely give "Forest of the Amazon" an exotic flavor. Of course the singing by Renée Fleming is lovely, and Villa-Lobos' melodies for the soprano solo are beautiful and memorable. As an example, listen to "Love Song" (Track 17) or "Sentimental Melody" (Track 18). Amazingly, the symphonic poem is a cohesive work; with early themes reappearing later in the work. Yet the piece is incredibly varied, in which the listener takes an Amazonian journey though Villa-Lobos' unique sound world, which incorporates ethnic, popular and classical elements.

I have two (very slight) reservations about this release. First, the present release represents a remastering of a 1994/1995 recording. Although, the sound quality of the remastering is quite good, it may not be up to the excellent standards of CPO's recordings of the Villa-Lobos symphonies. Second, there is an electronic instrument that accompanies the soprano in certain places (Track 4 and Track 6 for instance). I am not familiar with this instrument, but it is one of which I am not particularly fond. However, its presence is not extensive.

Overall, I should mention that the playing by the Moscow Radio Symphony Orchestra, led by the enthusiastic Alfred Heller, is quite good. In fact, we owe many thanks to Alfred Heller, whose research and dedication made this recording possible.

So in conclusion, this release is wholly recommendable to both fans of Villa-Lobos and those who may be new to this master. In "Forest of the Amazon" Villa-Lobos fully explores the evocative potential of the modern orchestra. This is a major statement by a major composer.

Highly recommended.

74:05

From the conductor.......2006-07-12

Ivorx's review of my recording as well as his/her comments about Villa-Lobos are steeped in inaccuracies.

1. It was not a session orchestra that Villa-lobos conducted, but the Symphony of the Air (NBC Symphony Orchestra).

2. My recording was not just a little longer, but 27 minutes longer (circa 74 minutes total) and included the entire composition. It represented a critical edition.

3. Sadly the Villa-Lobos recording of circa 47 minutes was made when he was ill, done in one day and they kept him there until 2:00AM the next morning as reported to me by pianist Felicja Blumental.

4. Villa-Lobos was my friend and mentor. I watched him orchestrate, "Forest of the Amazon" in December 1958 and I coached Bidú Sayao for his recording.

It irks me to see the uninformed write such a pontifical review as well as an inaccurate one to match his/her arrogance. After a very long time, I finally became irritated enough to say something. Apologies to all for not having done this sooner

I am not saying to buy my recording, but the Ivorx review is absurd. It is based on nothing at all and misinforms the reader. This person owes apologies to the memory of Villa-Lobos and the memories of the excellent musicians who played for his album as well as one to Amazon.com.

sheer sonic lushness.......2005-08-28

I have listened to this album FIVE times since it arrived today. This is simply gorgeous stuff. Villa-Lobos is well represented here, from the Choros - like primitivism of the Overture to the rich lyricism of the "Sentimental Melody" which brings to mind the composer's famous Bachianas Brasileiras No. 5. If you are thinking of dipping your toe in the immense ocean of Villa-Lobos's works, this album is a splendid introduction. If you are already an enthusiast, this work (and this performance of it -- Renee Fleming is at her best here) will delight you. The orchestra IS a rain forest in this composer's hands, and it is full of mysterious delights and terrifying beauty at every turn.

More than 25 minutes longer version.......2002-04-10

... this unabridged version is ... is more than 25 minutes longer than the 1958 recording by the composer himself. The total time is about 74 minutes
It is superb epic music, of the many compositions Villa-Lobos wrote one of his best! The only thing I don't like are some short wordless vocalises to imitate birds.But the real songs (sung by Renee Fleming or the choir) which appear like intermezzos on certain places in the driving orchestral music are beautiful. The recording was released before in 1996 on another label (Consonance).

Average customer rating: essential A major milestone in Tebaldi's distinguished career The American wins Too much dust in Minnie's throat ONE OF DECCAýs GREATEST ACHIEVEMENTS

Puccini: La fanciulla del West Manufacturer: Polygram Int'l ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Puccini | Puccini, Giacomo | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | 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 Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music Classical | Imports | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: Giuseppe Verdi: Luisa Miller Andrea Chenier Puccini - Il Trittico / Alagna, Gheorghiu, Guelfi, Guleghina, Gallardo-Domás, Manca di Nissa, Palmer, Shicoff, van Dam, Pappano Verdi - Don Carlo / Domingo · Caballé · Raimondi · Milnes · Verrett · Estes · Giulini Cilea: Adriana Lecouvreur ASIN: B0000041UN Release Date: 2002-09-10

Tracks:

1. La Fanciulla del West: Act One: Introduction - Accademia di Santa Cecilia, Roma/Capuana
2. La Fanciulla del West: Act One: Hello...Nick! - Edio Peruzzi
3. La Fanciulla del West: Act One: Che faranno i vecchi miei - Giorgio Tozzi
4. La Fanciulla del West: Act One: Jim, perche piangi? - Cazzato/Coro Accademia di Santa Cecilia, Roma
5. La Fanciulla del West: Act One: Andiam, ragazzi - Cornell MacNeil
6. La Fanciulla del West: Act One: Un poker? Nick, gettoni! - Cornell MacNeil
7. La Fanciulla del West: Act One: Mrs Rance, fra poco - Cornell MacNeil
8. La Fanciulla del West: Act One: Hello, Minnie! - Tebaldi/Monaco/MacNeil/Palma/Giorgetti/Guagni/Carbonari/Peruzzi/Carlin/Mercuriali/Cazzato...
9. La Fanciulla del West: Act One: Dove eravamo? - Renata Tebaldi
10. La Fanciulla del West: Act One: La posta! La posta! - Palma/Chor
11. La Fanciulla del West: Act One: Ti voglio bene, Minnie - Cornell MacNeil
12. La Fanciulla del West: Act One: Minnie, dalla mia casa son partito - Cornell MacNeil
13. La Fanciulla del West: Act One: Laggiu nel Soledad - Renata Tebaldi
14. La Fanciulla del West: Act One: Chi c'e per faumi i ricci? - Mario Del Monaco
15. La Fanciulla del West: Act One: Vi ricordate di me? - Mario Del Monaco
16. La Fanciulla del West: Act One: Mister Johnsonm voi m'avete seccato! - Cornell MacNeil
17. La Fanciulla del West: Act One: Mister Johnson, un valzer? - Mario Carlin
18. La Fanciulla del West: Act One: Mister Johnson, siete rimasto indietro - Renata Tebaldi
19. La Fanciulla del West: Act One: Io non son che una povera fanciulla - Renata Tebaldi
20. La Fanciulla del West: Act One: Quello che tacete - Mario Del Monaco
21. La Fanciulla del West: Act One: Come voi leggermi in cor non so - Renata Tebaldi
22. La Fanciulla del West: Act One: Ah, non temete, nessuno ardira! - Mario Del Monaco

Tracks:

1. La Fanciulla del West: Act Two: Il mio bimbo e grande e piccino - Bianca Maria Casoni
2. La Fanciulla del West: Act Two: Billy, e fissato? - Renata Tebaldi
3. La Fanciulla del West: Act Two: Voglio vestirmi tutta - Renata Tebaldi
4. La Fanciulla del West: Act Two: Oh, se sapeste - Renata Tebaldi
5. La Fanciulla del West: Act Two: Ugh! Neve! - Bianca Maria Casoni
6. La Fanciulla del West: Act Two: Hello! - Piero De Palma
7. La Fanciulla del West: Act Two: Vieni fuori! - Renata Tebaldi
8. La Fanciulla del West: Act Two: Non mi difendero - Mario Del Monaco
9. La Fanciulla del West: Act Two: L'han ferito...Che importa? - Renata Tebaldi
10. La Fanciulla del West: Act Two: Che c'e di nuovo, Jack? - Renata Tebaldi
11. La Fanciulla del West: Act Two: E la! E la! - Cornell MacNeil
12. La Fanciulla del West: Act Two: Una partita a poker! - Renata Tebaldi
13. La Fanciulla del West: Act Three: Ve lo giuro, sceriffo - Piero De Palma
14. La Fanciulla del West: Act Three: Maledetto cane! - Cornell MacNeil
15. La Fanciulla del West: Act Three: Ah! Ah! Ah! - Chor
16. La Fanciulla del West: Act Three: Sceriffio Rance! - Silvio Maionica
17. La Fanciulla del West: Act Three: E cosi, Mister Johnson, come va? - Cornell MacNeil
18. La Fanciulla del West: Act Three: Risparmaite lo scherno - Mario Del Monaco
19. La Fanciulla del West: Act Three: Ch' ella mi ereda libero e lontano - Mario Del Monaco
20. La Fanciulla del West: Act Three: Ah-ah-ah! - Renata Tebaldi
21. La Fanciulla del West: Act Three: Non vi fu mai - Renata Tebaldi
22. La Fanciulla del West: Act Three: E anche tu lo vorrai - Renata Tebaldi
23. La Fanciulla del West: Act Three: Le tue parole sono di Dio - Giorgio Giorgetti

Customer Reviews:

essential.......2006-12-22

Face it. All the best opera recordings were made between the mid 50s and early 70s. Fortunate for us that the final golden age of opera singing coincided with the onset of high fidelity stereo recording. This Fanciulla is a golden age performance. Sure, Carol Neblett had better high notes but the rest of the Tebaldi performance is a treasure. The role of Dick Johnson seems like it was written precisely for the voice of Del Monaco. His miraculous high notes are among the wonders of recorded opera. Cornell MacNeil's brief vocal prime was captured in this recording. This Fanciulla easily deserves a place alongside the Callas Tosca, the Bjoerling Boheme and the Caballe Manon Lescaut as the best Puccini recordings ever made.

A major milestone in Tebaldi's distinguished career.......2005-02-22

No words can describe the pleasure of listening to Renata Tebaldi in this opera, perhaps Puccini's most original work. It belongs in any Puccini-lover's shelf. This is a wonderful recording, sounding astonishingly vivid and clear for its age. Tebaldi is in excellent form, portraying an idiomatic and believable Fanciulla and a very Italian one at that too, gracing the score with her sumptuous voice, like a torrent of molten gold, to suit the demands of this Wagnerian-like rôle. Her aristocratic phrasing and perfect diction are a lesson for any singer. Tebaldi delivers deep dramatic intensity in a spinto rôle that, in my opinion, fitted her like a glove. This is a recording I keep coming back to very often. We ought to be eternally indebted to Decca for recording Tebaldi in this rôle in her absolute prime. The rest of the cast is first-rate. Mario del Monaco, boasting a clarion-sounding, virile voice and electrifying phrasing, is a delight. Cornell McNeill too is in excellent voice and his singing is idiomatic and coloured. The orchestra at times seems to be a character in the opera in its own right. A wonderful set. I would give it 10 stars if I could.

The American wins.......2004-06-12

The best singer in this recording is the American, Cornell MacNeil. He was at the peak of his brilliance when this recording was made in 1958. His sound has the solidity we expect from the sheriff of a dusty 19th century mining town, and his excellent use of the text perfectly depicts this lonely, wounded character. I expected Renata Tebaldi to be in wonderful voice as Minnie because this was the same year as her fabulous San Carlo 'Forza del Destino' (available on video), but I was completely wrong. I am astounded that she allowed this recording to be released; all climax notes are painful to hear and the voice generally lacks buoyancy. She sounds like The Mature Woman of the Golden West. Hearing Mario Del Monaco live in a theater was probably much more pleasant than hearing him in studio recordings because the brashness of his voice would have mellowed slightly before striking your ears. His studio recordings often make one cringe, as is the case here. Instead of this studio recording, perhaps you can find the live 1964 Philadelphia performance with Dorothy Kirsten, Franco Corelli and Anselmo Colzani (another terrific sheriff!). It is available on Melodram CDM 27081.

Too much dust in Minnie's throat.......2004-01-30

The drawback to this CD/recording is Tebaldi. Her voice
sounds dry, one-dimensional, wobbly, out of tune and forced.
Though I liked the orchestra's performance I had to put this
CD in the "give-away" bin simply because listening to Tebaldi was so uncomfortable.

ONE OF DECCAýs GREATEST ACHIEVEMENTS.......2002-09-22

This is the landmark recording of Puccini's less popular La Fanciulla del West. It is quite different (more theatrical) from the other Puccini operas and it is in my opinion, experienced better live, in an opera house.

The role of Minnie is arguably one of the most difficult roles to cast and especially to perform. It requires a powerful, firm voice but since it's a Puccini role, the voice must be beautiful as well. Renata Tebaldi's success in this role is legendary and she repeated the role on stage many times in the `60s. Here in 1958, she is caught in her absolute prime! The voice is glorious, hitting the high notes with amazing precision but always remaining warm and enchanting. As for acting skills, just purchase this set and listen to her... at any moment (the poker game for example!). In fact, most Tebaldi fans regard this as her best studio performance.

But is it just Tebaldi that makes this set a miracle? Mario del Monaco here proves once again that he is one of the greatest tenors ever! His stentorian voice might not be suitable for other Puccini roles (Pinkerton or Rodolfo for example) but as Johnson he is superb. His handsome low and electrifying high notes shine in this recording. Cornell MacNeil's beautiful baritone voice is another asset of this set. In fact, EVERYONE in the cast is great but what truly amazes, is the chemistry between the performers! It is among the most "live" studio recordings I have ever listened to! The opera's closing scene (last two tracks) is one of Puccini's grandest achievements and these legendary singers make the best out of it. Maestro Capuana conducting is in the same league as his sublime soloists, which definitely helps us enjoy Puccini's magic! The sound quality, by the way, is excellent.

A lot of people in the US were looking for this recording and Amazon finally releases it. Enjoy it!!

Average customer rating: Tony Monaco is Incredible!

Fiery Blues Tony Monaco Manufacturer: Summit(Classical) ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Jazz | Styles | Music Jazz Fusion | Jazz | Styles | Music Soul-Jazz & Boogaloo | Jazz | Styles | Music Jazz Funk | Funk | R&B | Styles | Music Similar Items: Deep Blue Bruise Master Chops "T" Burnin' Grooves East to West New Generation: Paesanos on the New B-3 ASIN: B00062IEL4 Release Date: 2004-11-02

Tracks:

1. Goin' To A Meetin'
2. Everyday I Have The Blues
3. Greasy Spoon
4. Mellow Soul
5. Ashleen
6. Crosscut Saw
7. The Hooker
8. Stormy Monday
9. All Blues
10. The Preacher

Album Description

Master organist Tony Monaco illustrates yet again why he has quickly elevated himself to be one of the best organ players in the world. The success and critical acclaim that Monaco has received over the past two months has been incredible. Comparisons to Jimmy Smith and many other greats have left him holding the jazz organ torch.

Customer Reviews:

Tony Monaco is Incredible!.......2005-07-24

I have every CD Tony Monaco has done and have been in live performance with him many times. Tony makes you moan and groan in total ecstacy and is the master of communication to your very heart and soul with the Hammond. He has excellent musicians wailing with him always. Every cut on the Fiery Blues CD is unbelievable with Tony's command of the Hammond and out pouring of soul and expression. Cut #5 Ashleen puts me into orbit and makes me groan with Tony's command of the keyboard and unique way of expressing himself so perfectly that it hurts, in the best way! Every contributing artist on this CD is excellent and a fitting compliment. This CD is a must for all jazz/blues organ lovers! I never heard a Hammond say so much! Tony Monaco rules, you'll love it!

Average customer rating: "La Wally" is a hoot! 5stars but not their best performance! For Heaven's sake, buy this before London pulls the plug! You betcha! A GREAT TEBALDI RECORDING OF AN INTERESTING OPERA

Catalani: La Wally / Tebaldi, del Monaco, Cappuccilli; Cleva Alfredo Catalani , Renata Tebaldi , Mario del Monaco , Fausto Cleva , Piero Cappuccilli , Justino Diaz , Alfredo Mariotti , Stefania Malagu , Monte Carlo National Opera Orchestra , and Lidia Marimpietri Manufacturer: Decca ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music Similar Items: Cilea: Adriana Lecouvreur Verdi: La Forza del Destino Andrea Chenier Mascagni: Iris / Patanè, Domingo I Due Foscari ASIN: B0000041VK Release Date: 1990-02-13

Tracks:

1. Act I: Prelude
2. Act I: Un di, verso il Murzoll (Walter)
3. Act I: Non c'e che dir! (Stromminger)
4. Act I: Su per l'erto (Haggenbach)
5. Act I: Ma si direbbe (Strommonger)
6. Act I: Chi oso levar sul padre (Wally)
7. Act I: L'Hagenbach? L'aborro! (Stromminger)
8. Act I: Sei tu che domandata hai la mia man? (Wally)
9. Act I: Ebben?... Ne andro lontana (Wally)
10. Act I: Ad ora cosi tarda (Women)
11. Act II: Entro la folla che intorno s'aggira (some girls)
12. Act II: No!... Coll'amor to non dei scherzar (Afra)
13. Act II: La bella creatura! (Young Men)
14. Act II: Finor non m'lan baciata (Wally)
15. Act II: Sei tu? (Wally)
16. Act II: Che brami, Wally? (Afra)
17. Act II: Gia il canto fervido (Villagers)

Tracks:

1. Act III: Orchestral Interlude
2. Act III: Fa cor, Wally! (Walter)
3. Act III: Ebben...dunque? (Gellner)
4. Act III: Hagenbach qui? (Gellner)
5. Act III: Ne mai dunque avro pace? (Wally)
6. Act III: Buio e il sentier (Hagenbach)
7. Act III: Dio! Vive ancor! (Wally)
8. Act IV: Orchestral Introduction
9. Act IV: Luogo sicuro questo non e piu! (Walter)
10. Act IV: Prendi, fanciul, e serbala! (Wally)
11. Act IV: Eterne a me d'intorno (Wally)
12. Act IV: Wally! Wally! (Hagenbach's Voice)
13. Act IV: M'hai salvato (Hagenbach)
14. Act IV: Quando a Solden (Hagenbach)

Customer Reviews:

"La Wally" is a hoot!.......2004-01-22

I am in general agreement with the previous Amazon reviewers. Yes, this is a late recording for Tebaldi and del Monaco, but the plain fact is that they both sound just fine -- particularly when compared to the lesser operatic lights of today.

This is not a familiar work for most opera lovers. That is a shame because it is a hoot! Where else is there a yodeling aria? In what other opera does the tenor despise the soprano until almost the end? And, I ask you, where can you find a tenor so dumb that he falls off a cliff TWICE before the curtain falls?

"La Wally"--as they say up here in the Frozen North, "Ya gotta love it!"

5stars but not their best performance!.......2001-02-23

La Wally is a fine, less known opera also because of its wonderful libretto, written by a true expert Luigi Illica! He also was the librettist of Tosca, La Boheme, Andrea Chenier and other grand operas. No wonder the words in La Wally are so moving.

Conductor Fausto Cleva (and not Capuana as mentioned on another review) chooses the well-tried formula of Renata Tebaldi and Mario del Monaco. Renata Tebaldi is enchanting enough with a voice less spinto, more lyrical thus ideal for the melancholic atmosphere of this opera. Her "Ebben?..ne andro lontana" is deeply moving, full of sorrow! Mario del Monaco, on the other hand, though quite powerful on the upper register is annoying when singing lower notes. This is their last recording together and del Monaco was already over 50 so he deserves some respect. Last but certainly not least Piero Capuccili is outstanding as the father of Wally! His aria in the first act is a marvel to listen to.

Concluding, this is probably the best studio La Wally but if I had to compare it with other Tebaldi- del Monaco recordings it would get less stars. Strongly recommended is also Tebaldi's earlier, in fresher voice, live recording of La Wally.

For Heaven's sake, buy this before London pulls the plug!.......2000-11-15

As the London recordings disappear, no doubt to reappear someday at a super-premium price, you owe it to yourself to buy this. See for yourself what all the fuss over Tebaldi is about- like Callas, she gives class to trashy operas. Really- who else would you want to hear singing La Wally?

You betcha!.......2000-07-25

The previous reviewer stole most of my thunder, but I'll rumble a way just a bit because this is an exceptional reissue. Wally is such an affecting opera that you forgive its weaknesses of structure and its slightly scant story. And having two distinguished singers giving their farewells in it is a most appropriate and heartfelt gesture on the part of the producers. We listen around Wally as we do around Tebaldi. It's a remarkable assumption of a role that is too often snubbed.

Maestro Capuana was rounding up his distinguished career, too, and the Paul Paray trained Monte Carlo Orchestra gives him a performance that's a salutory and a salutation.

While there are some felicities missing here that come to the fore in some of the RAI tapings of Tebaldi in this part, this is a "must have" for Italianists of all ages and stripes.

A GREAT TEBALDI RECORDING OF AN INTERESTING OPERA.......1999-07-05

Catalani's "La Wally" is a turn-of-the-century "verismo" opera, and one that Tebaldi began singing fairly early in her career. She opened the 1953 La Scala season in it (along with Mario del Monaco), and continued to sing it on various occasions throughout her distinguished career. "La Wally" is not a great opera, but it has many beautiful and engaging things in it, not least of which is the celebrated aria (featured in the film "Diva) "Ebben? n'andro lontano", which is heard near the beginning of the opera. There is also a highly dramatic soprano/tenor duet at the finale, and some really attractive music in between. This wonderful London recording was made rather late in Tebaldi's career (1969), but she is in outstanding vocal form here. Her voice is large, ripe, powerful, and beautiful enough for one to think that this recording represents prime Tebaldi, which in this instance, it really does. This was an operatic role that suited her Italian temperment like a glove. Mario del Monaco is also caught in late-career form, and while he shows more vocal wear and tear than Tebaldi, he still is in good enough shape to use his still-powerful voice to good effect. He is a formidable presence here, and an ideal partner for Tebaldi (they recorded many operas together, this being the last). All of the supporting singers do a good job here, and Cleva conducts a warm and compelling performance. If one is interested in exploring this very interesting opera, this is the recording to get.For Tebaldi fans, it's a must.

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1. Monument [Live]
2. More Songs from the Campfire
3. Mr. Supernatural [Enhanced]
4. Music [Import]
5. My Generation [Deluxe Edition] [Import]
6. New Breed [Import]
7. No Second Chance
8. Not Alone [Box set]
9. Ocean Avenue [CD-single] [Import]
10. Opera

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