In & Out of Focus [Import]

in & out of focus [import]

Track Listings

1. Focus (Vocal)

2. Black Beauty

3. Sugar Island

4. Anonumus

5. House Of The King

6. Happy Nightmare (Mescaline)

7. Why Dream

8. Focus (Instrumental)

Editorial Reviews
Product Description
Japanese 20-bit K2 remastered reissue of the Dutch prog-rock act's 1970 album, packaged in a limited edition miniature LP sleeve. 2001.

In & Out of Focus,Focus,Jvc Victor,Rock,Rock/Pop

In & Out of Focus [Import]

Average customer rating:

The best live CD I've ever heard
Terrific!!!!!
Best music from anyone in years!!!!
springsteen at his best
My two and half year old is obsessed with this cd

Live In Dublin

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Bruce Springsteen with the Sessions Band: Live In Dublin
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Traveling Wilburys (2 CD / 1 DVD)

ASIN: B000P1KTVY
Release Date: 2007-06-05

Tracks:

Atlantic City
Old Dan Tucker
Eyes On The Prize
Jesse James
Further On (Up The Road)
O Mary Don't You Weep
Erie Canal
If I Should Fall Behind
My Oklahoma Home
Highway Patrolman
Mrs. McGrath
How Can A Poor Man Stand Such Times And Live
Jacob's Ladder

Tracks:

Long Time Comin'
Open All Night
Pay Me My Money Down
Growin' Up
When The Saints Go Marching In
This Little Light Of Mine
American Land
Blinded By The Light
Love Of The Common People
We Shall Overcome

Amazon.com

The last time Bruce Springsteen gave up E Street for Folk Street, the band of fiddles, banjos, and accordions--sans audience--was recording 2006's We Shall Overcome: The Seeger Sessions in the informality of his living room. This time the Boss takes his American-music foray to Ireland for a three-night stint on the north quay of Dublin's River Liffey. The 23 songs drawn from those performances cover most of the songs from the Pete Seeger tribute, but venture drastically into Springsteen's popular back catalog ("Atlantic City," "Highway Patrolman," "Blinded By the Light") while delving further into his affinity for multiple styles of music, from folk and blues to gospel and country. "If I Should Fall Behind" plays like a tear-jerking last call in a dimly lit pub. "Open All Night" has been shaped into pure swing, complete with pedal steel and sax. And "Jesse James," with its furious banjo, spectator handclaps, and Springsteen howl, could pass for the Pogues, circa 1985. A simultaneously released DVD uses nine cameras to capture every sweat-beaded highlight, from the tin whistle of "Further Up the Road" to an arena bursting out in a "We Shall Overcome" singalong. --Scott Holter

Album Description

New 2 CD set features 23 songs, including fan favorites, Springsteen classics and never-before-released performances

Customer Reviews:

The best live CD I've ever heard.......2007-07-11

The Boss doesn't make bad CDs or bad concerts, I am told. I've wanted to hear him in concert since I heard his first songs. I actually was getting tickets to one of the shows that got cancelled due to a band member's illness and he's come to two cities--after I've left them. If I never make it, this CD is better than a lot of the live shows that I have been lucky enough to see.

I miss the E Street Band, but the Sessions Band he's gathered for this effort is excellent. His backup singers are soulful and the 17 piece band can handle anything from swing to Irish without missing a beat.

"Varied" is a mild description for this CD. Anyone else did this kind of concert, you'd have mixed reviews. Bruce can put folk next to swing next to gospel and then turn around and rock the house without ticking people off. He's also going international, doing American music right next to Irish traditional ballads and it appears the Dublin audience is eating it up.

Bruce breathes new life into the music here. I grew up hearing "Jesse James" but it wasn't like this. And "Jacob's Ladder" sure isn't what I heard in church.

He's also taken "Blinded by the Light" which was one of the first Bruce songs I heard and breathed new life into the live version.

"How can a poor man stand such times and live?" is one of the most heartwrenching protest songs I've heard. He really took the comments about the Dixie Chicks "Shut up and sing" to heart.

I don't like usually live CDs most of the time. Hate the staticky sussurus of the applause in the background and some idiot has got to yell the performer's name at least once per song. "Live in Dublin" is beautifully engineered. You get the 'feel' of the hall and the voices of the audience joining Bruce in song, yet the really annoying audience noise is minimized.

Terrific!!!!!.......2007-07-07

This Cd is just fantastic. I love it, and play it all the time.I think it is his best!! If you are are fan, you need to buy this Cd.

Best music from anyone in years!!!!.......2007-06-29

Bruce Springsteen's "We Shall Overcome- The Seeger Sessions" album, and this new one "Live In Dublin- With The Sessions Band" are both nothing but pure genious!!!! It's the best music that I have heard from ANYONE in any area of music, in many years! I absolutely love it!

I am so glad that I was able to experience this in concert, in the summer of 2006 near Chicago, IL. It was an experience that I will never forget. The music just captures you, and doesn't let go.

I have purchased both versions of "We Shall Overcome" (So glad to finally have "Buffalo Gals" & "Bring 'Em Home" on CD!). I also have "Live In Dublin" on CD, and the DVD too!

Keep this type of music coming Bruce! It's great!

springsteen at his best.......2007-06-24

I'm a springsteen fan for 25 years. saw already 8 concerts of bruce in the netherlands, also the session tour in my hometown rotterdam. for me, this is springsteen at his best. of course I like the rockin bruce but how he play this country/folk songs with so much passion and feeling, it touch me very much. no one can reach this level of making music. springsteen and country music. It's a great combination...."o mary don't you weep" is my favorite

My two and half year old is obsessed with this cd.......2007-06-20

We watched this concert on PBS and my two and half year old son who LOVES music (he's a huge Dan Zanes fan) went wild when he heard the folky set.
We bought the cd and we pretty much listen to it everyday. He loves "Pay Me My Money Down" and "This Little Light of Mine". This is an excellent compilation and believe me, I have listened to it many, many times :)

Average customer rating:

Loved it
Sounds like a Friday night feels
Relaxing and Peaceful
Jack Johnson has one talent
Jack does it again

In Between Dreams
Jack Johnson
Manufacturer: Umvd Labels
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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On And On
Brushfire Fairytales
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ASIN: B0007GAEVW
Release Date: 2005-03-01

Tracks:

Better Together
Never Know
Banana Pancakes
Good People
No Other Way
Sitting, Waiting, Wishing
Staple It Together
Situations
Crying Shame
If I Could
Breakdown
Belle
Do You Remember
Constellations

Amazon.com

For a man who gets his biggest kicks surfing the waves and strumming his guitar on a lonely beach in native Hawaii, singer-songwriter Jack Johnson has carved out quite a remarkable career on the mainland. His 2003 album, On and On, debuted at No. 3 on The Billboard 200 and subsequently went platinum on the back of hit single "The Horizon Has Been Defeated." The follow-up, meanwhile, seems destined to shine even brighter. The drifting chords and soft voice are still in place, only now Johnson's instinct for melody has sharpened alongside his ability to self-edit. These small concessions make third album, In Between Dreams, his most conspicuous, particularly on tracks like the three-minute relationship drama, "Sitting, Waiting, Wishing," and "Breakdown," a song he originally recorded for Handsome Boy Modeling School's White People album remade here to reveal its full stripped-down loveliness. Imagine all the coconuts it will buy. -- Aidin Vaziri

Customer Reviews:

Loved it.......2007-06-12

I have to say, I own Brushfire Fairytales and On and On, also, but this album is my favorite so far. I love the flow of the songs, love the songs he wrote as well as the ones written by his friends, and love the delivery. "Banana Pancakes" is just about my favorite JJ track of all. I highly recommend this album.

Sounds like a Friday night feels.......2007-05-27

I absolutely love this album. Jack and boys sound sooooo good. Like I said above, it sounds like a Friday night feels...just plain good and mellow and happy. Beautifully simple melodies and refrains, just not so simple that they aren't fabulous. Jack's voice is just so smooth and lovely. The vocals are right up front and sound so clear. I love the guitar riffs on this album. In Between Dreams is like grown-up lullabies. I can't imagine anyone not enjoying this album. My fave tracks are Breakdown, Never Know, Better Together, Sitting Waiting Wishing, Do You Remember, Constellations...see how much I love this album? Can't even choose a fave.

Relaxing and Peaceful.......2007-05-07

This CD is one of my favorite CD's ever! Every time I here the song 'Better Together' I cry. The first time I heard this song I was driving in the car with my brother and he played it for me in his first car for the first time. It was a special moment for me and I'll never forget that moment in my life. My favorite song would have to be 'Never Know' because I heard it sitting on a fairy-boat ride coming home from CIMI with my class of friends and I was sitting next to my boyfriend listening to that wonderful song. It lulled me to sleep and let my mind rest and be at ease. I will also never forget how much it helped me forget all present things and just let me have some 'me time' as I fell asleep. I know I am being redundant but trust me, it was wonderful. I would highly recommend this CD to you. Also Jack Johnson's voice is relxing and very unique. I have nobody to compare him to. If you end up buying this CD then I hope you enjoy this as much as I did and am.

Jack Johnson has one talent.......2007-04-11

making consistent albums that sound like an anthropomorphic summer took a poop in a box and this is the recording of it.

Jack does it again.......2007-04-08

Finally a CD me and my two teenage daughters enjoy together. It's one of his best.

Average customer rating:

Fantastic voice and song list
easy, breezy...and sexy...me likes!
expected it to be better
What To Do About Joan Osborne.
Dissapointing Effort from a Great Singer

Breakfast in Bed
Joan Osborne
Manufacturer: Time Life Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Back to Black

ASIN: B000O78KZG
Release Date: 2007-05-22

Tracks:

I've Got To Use My Imagination
Ain't No Sunshine
Midnight Train To Georgia
Baby Is A Butterfly
Breakfast In Bed
Cream Dream
Natural High
Heart Of Stone
Sara Smile
Eliminate The Night
Break Up To Make Up
I Know What's Goin' On
Alone With You
Kiss And Say Goodbye
Heat Wave
What Becomes Of The Brokenhearted

Amazon.com

On Breakfast in Bed, her first release on Time Life Records (yes, that Time Life) Joan Osborne tackles a crop of hand-picked soul and R&B favorites with equal parts sass and sensitivity. Long an underappreciated artist, Osborne is a performer with the wisdom to exercise vocal restraint for an effect that's more Dusty Springfield than Christina Aguilera. Her fine previous outing interpreting soul standards was aptly titled How Sweet It Is, and witness her contribution to the terrific 2002 film Standing in the Shadows of Motown, where Osborne's astute readings of "What Becomes of the Brokenhearted" and "Heatwave" outshone performers like Ben Harper and Gerald Levert (happily, both songs are included here). The title track and Hall and Oates' "Sara Smile" are both canny choices that play to her strengths in delivering credible blue-eyed soul, and six new Osborne-penned songs fit neatly into the record. If her compositions pale a bit next to the classics she covers (with the sultry and slithery exception of the excellent "Eliminate the Night"), give Osborne credit for bravely placing herself side-by-side with songwriting luminaries like Holland-Dozier-Holland and Bill Withers. Breakfast in Bed makes for a leisurely listen on a sunny Sunday morning, so put up your feet and stay awhile. --Ben Heege

Album Description

Joan Osbourne's recently recorded album pays homage to the great Soul and R&B songs of the late '60s and early '70s. The album features a unique combination of unforgettable interpretations of timeless R&B classics. Her first single to radio will be "I've Got to Use My Imagination."

Customer Reviews:

Fantastic voice and song list.......2007-07-12

Most know Joan for her 90's hit "If God Was One of Us." She is far from those days. Most would be astounded to hear what Joan;s voice is capable of, as that song only trapped her into a simple octave throughout its verses.

Here in "Breakfast In Bed", Joan takes the jazz practice of covering American classics and favorites in her dynamic, raspy alto voice. This is a great CD, my favorites include the live performances of "Heatwave" and "What Becomes of a Broken Hearted" with Motown's Funk Brothers; and classics "Natural High" and "Sara Smile."

Check the song list, if you find any of your old favorites the GET THIS CD, you will definately not be disappointed. However "What Becomes of a Broken Hearted" is worth the $13 alone.

easy, breezy...and sexy...me likes!.......2007-06-30

Okay, my thoughts! I dunno, it seems pretty clear Joan has been really enjoying herself lately. I'm all for that.

Speaking for myself, more times than not, Joan selects covers that are mostly new to me - on this disc, besides the 2 live tracks, I was only familiar with Midnight Train. So, generally, all the songs are new to me. Then again, I like covers and I like how Joan mixes in her own songs. She is a singer, after all! I don't think a true singer should be afraid of (or criticized for) covering songs... Admittedly, if I really had my way with Joan, I'd get her to release all those original songs that have gone unreleased over the years, but this album satisfies just as well. Simply put, it's great.

Honestly, when I first listened to the sound samples online, I wasn't quite sure what to think, but since listening to the full album, I've come to really enjoy it. I think it's an accessible album that everyone can enjoy. Joan's voice sounds unbelievably sexy and gorgeous! I don't dislike the first 2 tracks, but I could do without them at the same time. My favorites from this disc are Baby Is A Butterfly & Heart Of Stone (two originals), and Kiss And Say Goodbye (so good!). I'm not one to hum, but I've found myself randomly humming these songs (like while shopping or lounging in bed).

In any case, all the songs work and sound well alongside each other and I'm glad Joan's being more prolific and enjoying herself.

expected it to be better.......2007-06-30

Her "How Sweet It Is" CD is one of my favorites. On that release, she's in great voice, she covers great material and I think it was very bold to do a CD of all cover tunes. I was excited to find that Joan did a new 70's style CD, but I found that this disk to be just pleasant. It is also somewhat dull... no sparkle, no WOW, no "hey you gotta hear this!". I ain't bad, but if you're tempted, start with the "Sweet" CD.

What To Do About Joan Osborne........2007-06-30

Osborne's career has to be one of the most wasteful careers of all time. This is her sixth studio album, and it is her third in a row consisting MOSTLY of cover songs and NOT original material. Is her hand broken? Can she not write 10 original songs for one new cd? I WANT "RELISH" OR "RIGHTEOUS LOVE". At least the songs not written by her were new songs.

That said, I think Osborne is an excellent vocalist, but her vocals have been squandered by re-doing classic r&b, blues and soul songs. I have to admit that some of her successful covers on "Breakfast In Bed" came in unexpected places. When I looked over the titles I thought, "There's no way she's going to pull off Gladys Knight & The Pips's "I've Got To Use My Imagination", but there she was giving it a fresh coat of new paint. This didn't carry over to the other Gladys Knight & The Pips hit "Midnight Train To Georgia". To me, it was a lifeless interpretation of the original. Likewise, Bill Withers's "Ain't No Sunshine" was a rather bland interpretation. "Natural High" by Bloodstone was unfamiliar to me, so I couldn't compare the original with what Joan had done, but the song was okay, not great. "Breakfast In Bed" is eluding me. I'm not sure if it is a cover song because I've never heard it before. Hall & Oates's "Sara Smile" was treading on dangerous ground for me since I am a huge fan of theirs. I was not amused by the original take of a song about a woman being sung by a woman. Again, Osborne didn't bring anything new to the table. "Break Up To Make Up" by The Stylistics was okay. I wasn't too familiar with that song, so again, I couldn't compare. Manhattan's "Kiss And Say Goodbye" is an often covered song, and Osborne did a decent job of it. Strangely, the two songs not designed for this cd, but included as extras, tended to be some of the strongest material. Joan does a decent cover of Martha & The Vandellas' "Heat Wave" and Jimmy Ruffin's "What Becomes Of The Broken Hearted" to finish off the disc.

This leaves six originals penned by Joan. I give her credit for making six songs that do sound like the genre she was going for. However, I found only two of the songs to really stand out in my mind: "Baby Is A Butterfly" and "Cream Dream". "Heart Of Stone", "Eliminate The Night", "I Know What's Going On" and "Alone With You" are all unremarkable.

So, what's it going to be? Give Joan five stars because you like her and she's a talented singer/songwriter, or give her three stars because she's not giving fans what they really want (all new material)? For me, it's the latter. I can't stress enough that after 7 years it's high time for Osborne to walk the walk and give us a full album of new material.

Dissapointing Effort from a Great Singer.......2007-06-27

I've been a Joan Osborne fan for years and think she usually brings new life to covers. But this disc falls flat. As soulful as her voice is, she adds nothing new (or that interesting) to most of these Motown (and pseudo-Motown) tunes. I still thnk she's great, but would have expected more from this disc. If you haven't heard much of her, go with "Pretty Little Strangers."

Average customer rating:

Needs some editing
Mika Rocks
Amazing Debut CD
Been there....got that
Good, but not great

Life in Cartoon Motion
Mika
Manufacturer: Casablanca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000NA2776
Release Date: 2007-03-27

Tracks:

Grace Kelly
Lollipop
My Interpretation
Love Today
Relax (Take It Easy)
Ring Ring
Any Other World
Billy Brown
Big Girl (You Are Beautiful)
Stuck In The Middle
Erase
Happy Ending

From Amazon.co.uk

The pop world might be all cooing 'n' cross-eyed over this flamboyant elfin with extended tail-feathers, as if it were shaken suddenly from a slumber, but the arrival of such a character was in fact always inevitable. He's an unlikely but traceable amalgamation of random pop culture explosions from the past few years--two parts Paulo Nutini, one part Kemal from Big Brother, a dash of Daphne & Celeste, a barrel measure of Scissor Sisters, and another pinch of post-ironic dancing to Elton John at the Students' Union gone midnight. It's no secret that the UK has a weakness for pretty-boy singer songwriters either--he fits in there too, in that he's about to stick its index finger in the socket and pour it a drink.

Give it 12 months and you might be taking out a restraining order--Mika will split opinion--but his quasi-soul falsetto is unbelievable, that much is immediately obvious. There are moments nearing syrupy Feeling-esque normalcy (take "My Interpretation"), but those aside it's high camp insatiability all the way. There's a hint of Freddie Mercury's theatricality in the voice, and in "Big Girl" he's even written a modern day "Fat Bottomed Girls". "Lollipop" is Jake Shears leading the Jackson 5, "Love Today" is the missing link between the Bee Gees and Village People and "Relax, Take It Easy" is a chilled Pet Shop Boys in gold lamé. Too cheesy to be a classic, perhaps, but this is just the brand of subversive eccentricity Robbie has failed miserably to achieve over his past few albums. --James Berry

Album Description

`Historic', `sensational', `flamboyant' and `without-any-doubt original' are just some of the adjectives being thrown around by critics in praise of 22 year-old UK newcomer, Mika's eclectic debut album, Life In Cartoon Motion.

Fun, smart, musically adventurous and thematically provocative, the songs on Life In Cartoon Motion, all of them written and produced by Mika, combine euphoric rushes of melody with darker unexpected elements. They range from bright daytime melodramas to night-time tales of love, loss, abandonment, hope and happiness. Each is a splendid blend of fresh imagination and deft pop craftsmanship.

Album gems such as "Grace Kelly," "Lollipop," Billy Brown," and "Relax And Take It Easy," display Mika's innovative wordplay. `I've always respected people who make great records to their own vision,' writes the quixotic Mika. Mission accomplished!

Customer Reviews:

Needs some editing.......2007-07-06

I agree this is a very good album, but the end of Track 6 (Ring Ring) and less so 7, has an annoying segment with a woman speaking in broken english talking about having her heart broken and left with only one eye! It would be cute if it was quick, but it goes on for 45 seconds! There is also a bonus song following the last song "Happy Ending" There's a 1 minute gap between the last song and the bonus song. (a song cookie?) How many people pop out the CD at that point thinking it's over? It's a very haunting piece with a piano and falsetto vocal. I used a music editing program to get rid of the 45 second rambling spoken word segment and to cut out the 1 minute gap between the bonus track.

Mika Rocks.......2007-07-03

Love listening to new talent! I saw Mika on Good Morning America and knew right away I was looking at a success story! Music that makes your heart sing!

Amazing Debut CD.......2007-06-28

I'm a little late to the game when it comes to being a Mika fan, but in this case, it is definitely better late than never. This CD is phenomenal! His style! His voice! The songs! I could go on and on and on and on.
"Grace Kelly" starts off the cd, and it grabs you right from the start. By the time you are grooving to "Big Girl" near the end of the cd, you'll suddenly realize you haven't had this much fun listening to a cd in a long, long time.
Give it a try. Trust me, you won't regret it.

Been there....got that.......2007-06-27

I really wanted to be blown away by this CD. Instead, I'm mildly OK with it. Scissor Sisters did the same album and MUCH better. Definitely somewhat of a disapointment.

Good, but not great.......2007-06-18

I like this album. It's fun, catchy, easy to listen to. Some of the songs are really great. I feel compelled to write, however, because I think there is a lot of "filler" on this album. That's bizarre to say about a debut, but I honestly feel that his style of impersonation falls flat on pretty much all the slower, more intimate songs. Those songs aren't bad in most cases, but they just are not very memorable for me. The other drawback is that some songs that seem cool and quirky on first listen, become a bit annoying on repeat listenings (Lollipop, Love Today).

I think the songs where his influences are worn on his sleeve are his best offerings. I wonder what his own musical voice is and whether that would be worth listening to. Will he have any staying power after the novelty of his Freddie Mercury and Jake Shears impressions wear off? That isn't a drawback to this album more of a speculation for the future.

I cannot reasonably give it higher than 3 stars; this album is too much of a mixed bag, despite being pretty fun. So far all the reviews are either 1 star or 4 or 5, and for such an inconsistent album, I don't think either of the extremes is appropriate. I'll be interested to see what his next album brings.

110 in the Shade (2007 Broadway Revival Cast)

Average customer rating:

Fabulous recording of a terrific score
My new favorite show
It's not 110%
Beautiful music
Great music and cast, needs updated book

110 in the Shade (2007 Broadway Revival Cast)

Manufacturer: P.S. Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Musical Theater | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music

General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

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Curtains (2007 Original Broadway Cast)
Spring Awakening (2006 Original Broadway Cast)
Grey Gardens - A New Musical (2006 Original Broadway Cast)
Company (2006 Broadway Revival Cast)
The Pirate Queen (2007 Original Broadway Cast)

ASIN: B000PMG9GW
Release Date: 2007-06-12

Tracks:

Another Hot Day
Lizzie's Comin' Home
Love, Don't Turn Away
Poker Polka
The Hungry Men
The Rain Song
You're Not Fooling Me
Cinderella
Raunchy
A Man and a Woman
"She Walked Out On Me..."
Old Maid
Evenin' Star
Everything Beautiful
"Stay and Talk..."
Melisande
Simple Little Things
Little Red Hat
Is It Really Me?
Wonderful Music
The Rain Song (reprise)

Amazon.com

More than four decades after its Broadway debut, the Roundabout Theatre's 2007 revival of 110 in the Shade is a glorious showcase for soprano Audra McDonald, and an eloquent statement for an underrated and neglected work. Based on N. Richard Nash's play The Rainmaker, 110 in the Shade tells the story of a Texas town stuck in a blistering heat wave. Lizzie (McDonald), the daughter of a local widower (Broadway veteran and TV star John Cullum), has resisted all suitors, including the sheriff (Christopher Innvar), until a potential huckster named Starbuck (Steve Kazee) arrives in town promising to bring rain ("The Rain Song"). Just like Marian the librarian, Lizzie thinks she sees right through the scam ("You're Not Fooling Me"). McDonald shines in her solos ("Love, Don't Turn Away," "Old Maid"), but Cullum, Innvar, and Kazee also get their moments either in duets with McDonald ("A Man and a Woman," "Simple Little Things," "Is It Really Me?") or by themselves. 110 in the Shade is obscure compared to Tom Jones and Harvey Schmidt's most famous work, The Fantasticks--none of its songs ever entered the popular culture like "Try to Remember"--but it's a beautiful, evocative score that is tailor-made for McDonald's rich voice. It's also much more sumptuous than The Fantasticks, even in Jonathan Tunick's pared-down, Tony-nominated orchestrations. (Also nominated were McDonald, Cullum, lighting designer Christopher Akerlind, and the show itself for Best Revival of a Musical.) P.S. Classics puts out its usual first-rate package, with color photos, introduction by Peter Filichia, synopsis, and libretto. --David Horiuchi

Customer Reviews:

Fabulous recording of a terrific score.......2007-07-12

This is simply the best recording of 110 In The Shade, a sadly neglected show by the composer and lyricist of The Fantasticks. It's a far superior score to The Fantasticks, but the original show didn't enjoy a long run on Broadway. Listen to the original broadway cast and I think you can hear why. The original cast sounds pallid in comparison to the cast on this terrific recording led by Audra MacDonald, who seems to have finally found a great part for herself. The supporting cast does not disappoint and the orchestra plays brightly. The only competition to this set is a British recording (now out of print) with cast that featured Karen Ziemba. That's a good set but Audra MacDonald's performance makes this recording the definitive version.

My new favorite show.......2007-07-12

Oh wow! The music in this show is beautiful and fun. The cast is loaded with amazing voices with Audra McDonald shining above all. Her "Raunchy" number is outstanding and keeps a grin on your face from beginning to end. I've always loved the "Rainmaker" play and the music, for me, just makes it even better. Both male leads have voices that could melt a maid's heart and I'm just glad it's not me having to choose between the two!

It's not 110%.......2007-07-05

The CD is well produced and Audra McDonald is wonderful, but most of the music sounds dated and old fashioned. Maybe that's because the show is dated and old fashioned.

Beautiful music.......2007-07-05

I saw this recently on Broadway, and it was an incredibly compelling show. Who knew? I had never heard of it. Audra sounds absolutely magnificent on this cast recording. Her songs alone make it a worthwhile purchase. Add great supporting singers and fun orchestrations, and you have a memorable album to add to your collection.

Great music and cast, needs updated book.......2007-07-01

I've long loved the music of this show and the cast was no disappointment. It's a hidden gem like Most Happy Fella that is often overlooked. I heard online interviews with the Director of this production who mentioned that they took liberty with the original script and revised it to reflect current times. I liked the fact that Lizzie was an independent woman and spoke her mind. I cringed throughout the play when it was constantly brought up that she could face the fate of ending up an old maid. As I explained to my 10 year old daughter years ago there was a stigma for unmarried women even more than today. And it was considerable. But this is 2007 and I would have changed this. While I loved the fact that John Cullum so ably showed his love for his daughter and concern for her as a person throughout the show, I doubt it is realistic that a father would encourage someone like Starbuck to have a one day fling with her. Or that she could be so influenced by his character even though Starbuck, a con man had redeeming qualities. I would have changed the book and story and tried to show her strength of character. Maybe she would have been better off without either of them.

Average customer rating:

Beverly Sills - The Best
Beverly Sills' highs are breathtaking!
THE 2005 OPERA CD OF THE YEAR
EMI Does It Again: Beverly Sills - A Tribute
Glad To Be The First Review- Beverly Sills Treasury Of Arias

The Very Best of Beverly Sills

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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Similar Items:

The Great Recordings
Art of Beverly
Beverly Sills: Made in America
Donizetti's Lucia di Lammermoor: Complete Opera (with full libretto and translation)
Verdi: La Traviata / Sills, Gedda, Panerai; Ceccato

ASIN: B0006VYELE
Release Date: 2005-04-26

Tracks:

Una Voce Poco Fa - Sherrill Milnes
Dunque Io Son - Sherrill Milnes
Contro Un Cor - Sherrill Milnes
Ah, Qual Colpo Inaspetatto! - Sherrill Milnes
E Il Sol Dell'anima... Addio! Speranza Ed Anima - Ambrosian Opera Chorus
Gualtier Malde... Caro Nome - Ambrosian Opera Chorus
Tutte Le Feste Al Tempio... Compiuto Pur Quanto... Si, Vendetta - Ambrosian Opera Chorus
V'ho Ingannato... Lassu In Cielo - Ambrosian Opera Chorus
Quel Guardo Il Cavaliere... So Anch'io La Virtu Magica - Ambrosian Opera Chorus
Pronta Io Son... Vado, Corro - Ambrosian Opera Chorus
Via, Caro Sposino - Ambrosian Opera Chorus
Tornami A Dir Che M'ami - Ambrosian Opera Chorus
La Morale In Tutto Questo - Ambrosian Opera Chorus

Tracks:

Vilia - Beverly Sills
Ah! Je Suis Seule... Dis-Moi Que Je Suis Belle - Beverly Sills
Cielo! Che Diverro?... Si, ferite... Dal Soggiorno... Ah! Che Spiegar - Beverly Sills
Libiamo Ne' Lieti Calici - John Alldis Choir
Un Di Felice, Eterea - John Alldis Choir
E Strano... Ah, Fors'e Lui... Follie! Follie!... Sempre Libera - John Alldis Choir
Pura Siccome Un Angelo... Ah! Dite Alla Giovine - John Alldis Choir
Che Fai? - John Alldis Choir
Addio Del Passato - John Alldis Choir
Parigi, O Cara - John Alldis Choir

Amazon.com

Beverly Sills hardly needs an introduction. She sang on the radio as a child and on the operatic stage as a teenager; her meteoric international career was launched by appearances in several virtually unknown bel canto operas at the New York City Opera. This compilation of arias and ensembles from some of her signature roles, recorded in the 1970s, with splendid partners like Nicolai Gedda, Alfredo Kraus, and Sherrill Milnes, displays her unique vocal and dramatic artistry at its peak. Her voice, effortlessly produced over an enormous range, is bright, pure, infinitely variable in color, inflection and intensity. Her intonation is impeccable even in huge leaps, and her breath is endless. The coloratura roulades are like strings of perfect, luminous pearls, clearly articulated in seamless legato. But this stunning technique (whose only flaw is a sometimes wide, wobbly vibrato) is never used for show; every note has life and expression, serving the music and the dramatic situation. Indeed, her characters are flesh-and-blood human beings, whose thoughts, emotions and interactions, from inwardness to ecstasy, from lamentation to overflowing joy, she projects with riveting concentration. Rosina in Rossini's The Barber of Seville is a charming, mischievous minx who succumbs to delighted tenderness; Pamira's great scene from his Siege of Corinth shows clearly why her Metropolitan Opera debut in that role was a sensation. In Verdi's Rigoletto, Gilda's hopeful innocence turns into hopeless despair: she dies, palpably, on a floating, celestial pianissimo. In his La traviata, Violetta's initial cool, hesitant restraint gradually melts as she opens herself (and her voice) to Alfredo's ardor and the bliss of love. The vocal balance in their final duet is uncanny; its tremulous tenderness in the shadow of death breaks the heart, as does her duet with Germont. Massenet's Thais is sensuous; Donizetti's Don Pasquale and Lehár's The Merry Widow provide comic relief. --Edith Eisler

Album Description

Details TBA. EMI. 2005.

Customer Reviews:

Beverly Sills - The Best.......2007-04-01

What a voice. No coloratura can compare, and she makes it seem so easy.

Beverly Sills' highs are breathtaking!.......2006-09-18

Adio del Passato is incredible! Beverly's high, floating coloratura is no less than ethereal which takes you to another world. Her voice has given me so much joy that it is hard to say one recording is better than another because I love her Mozart album equally with her Bellini/Donizetti. It is so wonderful to have these recordings captured on CD! Enjoy!

THE 2005 OPERA CD OF THE YEAR.......2006-08-19

THIS CD WAS THE BEST OPERA CD ISSUED LAST YEAR, AND HAS CAUGHT THE WORLD'S EAR IN NO TIME. I WAS BUSY WRITING IN SÃO PAULO, BRAZIL, WHILE THE STATEOWNED FM RADIOSTATION, DEDICATED TO CULTURE, WAS SOFTLY PLAYING OPERA ARIAS IN THE BACKGROUND. SUDDENLY I HEARD THE MOST FANTASTIC RENDERING OF "SEMPRE LIBERA" FROM "LA TRAVIATA". I GOT UP, SAT BY THE RADIO AND WAITED TO KNOW WHO WAS SINGING... THEN GOT BACK TO THE COMPUTER TO ORDER THIS CD FROM AMAZON! INCREDIBLE: ONLY 17 BUCKS FOR THIS, WHILE QUITE A BIT OF TRASH IS SOLD FOR 30.40 AND MORE...
A LADY FRIEND ONCE TOLD ME SHE COULD NOT LISTEN TO THE DUET IN "MADAMA BUTTERFLY" WITH MIRELLA FRENI AND LUCIANO PAVAROTTI (RECORDED IN 1974, BY VON KARAJAN) WITHOUT CRYING. WELL, YOU CANNOT LISTEN TO SILLS IN "LA TRAVIATA" DRY-EYED, NO MATTER WHO THE TENOR IS. SHE PROJECTS THE SAME DRAMATIC FEELING OF "LA DIVINA" CALLAS WITHOUT THOSE SHRIEKED HIGHNOTES; SHE OFFERS THE SAME COLORATURA VOCAL GYMNASTICS AS "LA STUPENDA" SUTHERLAND BUT WITH WARMTH... WHEN BEVERLY SANG, AS IN EVERYTHING ELSE SHE DID, SHE ALWAYS GAVE HER UTMOST. SHE WAS "LA GENEROSA" TO BE SURE.
DON'T JUST SIT THERE READING WHAT OTHERS THINK.
ORDER THIS CD NOW AND MARVEL AT HOW THIS GREAT AMERICAN LADY, IN SO MANY OTHER WAYS, ALSO COULD SING!

EMI Does It Again: Beverly Sills - A Tribute.......2005-07-22

EMI's "Very Best Of" series are perfect introductions to operatic singers of the 20th century. Once you hear these artist tribute albums (much like The Singers series) you will get hooked on the singer and seek out their full-length studio recordings. Beverly Sills was the first truly famous American opera star. One may argue that she was not, that she was merely a continued tradition of American divas such as Mary Garden and Lily Pons and which still continues today with Renee Fleming, Elizabeth Futral and Susan Graham. Beverly was raised in New York City, which is still her home, and which is the home of the New York City Opera and the Met, opera houses which rocketed her to fame. Her first success (not featured in this recording...UH WHY ?) was Cleopatra of Handel's Julius Caesar, a performance she sang opposite the illustrious baritone Norman Treigle. Those performances were legendary because coincidentally at the same time the Met was opening its new theatre and season with what became a disastrous Samuel Barber's Antony and Cleopatra starring Leontyne Price in an overblown, big-budget, epic fiasco. The great roles that followed the 1965 Cleopatra were Manon, Queen Elizabeth I in Roberto Deveraux, Maria Stuarda and Anna Bolena in the Donizetti Tudor Queen operas, Pamira in The Siege of Corinth (which were Sill's La Scala and belated Met debut. None of the Queens are featured in this recording, though its supposedly the Very Best Of. An aria from Rossini's Siege of Corinth is featured here however. What we are treated to however are fine lyric roles- Beverly Sills shone brightly and acted convincingly as Gilda in Rigoletto (the final scene is featured here) as Violetta in La Traviata, Thais, The Merry Widow (the beautiful Vilja is featured here)and the ingenue role of Norina in Don Pasquale is also showcased here. To each of these roles, Beverly Sills delivered an authenticity and dramatic interpretation, not ot mention beautiful, sweet tone. I love her pianissimos, her high notes, her chest register. It was the voice of Beverly Sills who first hooked me into opera. For a recording that should showcase her best work, Manon is not featured nor any of her prized French heroines- Marie in The Daughter of the Regiment and the heroines in Tales of Hoffman. Also not in here is the role that was her first success- the Broadway opera Ballad of Baby Doe. Even as such, the arias here are gorgeous. The Barber of Seville is in here and as Rosina she is playful and charming. Sills was a modern singer, with a voice that was beautiful but willing to sacrifice beauty for the sake of dramatic content. When Sills was once asked what she thought of the supposed rivalry with Joan Sutherland (which was never real and only gossip from partisan fans) Beverly said something to this effect -Joan and I are apples and oranges in our take on opera, we are Picasso and Monet. She would do anything for the effect of beauty and tone, I'd sacrifice beauty for the sake of dramatic text. Even as such, I see no ugliness to any of the roles here. All of them are beautiful to hear, full of rich floating celestial tones. It would have been nice to hear the roles that did call for Sills to step up the tense drama - Norma, will her recording ever be reissued by EMI ? Also, few people know that Beverly Sills sung role most would consider dangerous for her voice (though she sang them long before her career even took off)- Aida and Carmen!!

Glad To Be The First Review- Beverly Sills Treasury Of Arias.......2005-04-29

At last EMI's "The Very Best Of" series has issued some of the finer recorded documented arias of the incomparable soprano Beverly Sills. Fans of this down-to-earth, warm patron of music and the most unique lyric-coloratura-dramatic soprano, will be in Heaven. Sure, this is only some of the arias in only a small number of the many operas Sills performed. To be truthful, this is not what I'd personally regard as the best of Beverly Sills. Other albums of hers do use greater vocal masterpieces she sang- the best being "The Singers" Series, and another EMI edition called The Art of Beverly Sills Volume 2 and then there's the rare and brilliant "Sillsiana". Nevertheless, this album has its charm and appeal. Beverly Sills sings arias from Rossini's Barber of Seville, Verdi's Rigoletto and Traviata. This recording seems to highlight mostly her mastership of the bel canto repertoire and Verdi. Gilda and Violetta were roles she sang with supreme dramatic integrity and sweetness and purity of vocal line. Yet, it is hardly "the best of". Where are scenes from the masterful interpretations of Donizetti, truly Sills strongest suit- Lucia Di Lammermoor, Anna Bolena, Maria Stuarda and Roberto Devereaux, where is Sills' Manon, which even she hails as her best ? And when will her recorded Norma ever see the light of day ? Sills also excelled in the French repertoire- Faust, Thais, La Fille Du Regiment, The Tales of Hoffman and she was an incredible Queen Shemakha in Korsakov's Coq D'Or. True, Sills had a light, girlish, delicate voice, bright and small, but this worked in her favor in tragic roles. Dramatically, she could get into character as passionately and convincingly as Maria Callas. When she could darken her voice and use her chest voice for dramatic effect it was often thrilling. This is the latest recording in a number of recordings that are coming out, further promoting a great singer of the past. Beverly Sills. She was the working man's soprano. She worked hard to get to the top. She was the reigning singer of the NYC Opera where she starred in such great operas as Handel's Giulio Ceare Sills as Cleopatra (also not on this recording) and Tales of Hoffman singing opposite the great but underrated bass Norman Treigle. Sills is a wonderful human being and she has a beautiful voice that I cannot get out of my mind. She will always be the greatest to me. She got me hooked into opera.

Average customer rating:

Simply put, THIS is rock and roll!
One of the best CDs ever...REMASTERED
The rebirth of AC/DC
It does'nt get much Better than this!!
Back In Black again

Back in Black (Deluxe Digipak)
AC/DC
Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Highway to Hell
Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap
High Voltage
For Those About to Rock We Salute You
The Razor's Edge

ASIN: B000089RV6
Release Date: 2003-02-18

Tracks:

Hells Bells
Shoot To Thrill
What Do You Do For Money Honey
Givin The Dog A Bone
Let Me Put My Love Into You
Back In Black
You Shook Me All Night Long
Have A Drink On Me
Shake A Leg
Rock And Roll Ain't Noise Pollution

Amazon.com essential recording

Most critics complain Back in Black, the album AC/DC recorded after the death of their original lead screamer Bon Scott, is ridiculously juvenile, obvious, snickering, bludgeoning, derivative, single-minded about sex and booze, a big cartoon. All true, of course, and--on rock 'n' ragers like "What Do You Do For Money Honey," "You Shook Me All Night Long," and the title track--all great. As Scott's replacement Brian Johnson reminds us, loud and crunchy, no-holds-barred "rock and roll ain't noise pollution...it makes good, good sense." Never trust anyone who refuses to drink domestic beer, laugh at the Three Stooges, or crank Back in Black. --David Cantwell

Album Description

AC/DC's 1980 album digitally remastered and reissued in a special digipak plus a 16 page full color booklet containing all original album art, many unpublished photos, classic memorabilia and new 2003 liner notes. Epic.

Customer Reviews:

Simply put, THIS is rock and roll!.......2007-07-11

I can't really think of anything too specific to say about "Back in Black". One day, I bought the album, listened to it and had one of the biggest musical joyrides I can recall! Critics may despise AC/DC, but that's no reason to neglect this album! In fact, this qualifies not only as being one of the biggest-selling rock albums of all time, but one of the greatest. That being said, "Back in Black" is probably the first album people will think about whenever AC/DC is mentioned, and while they have a great selection in their catalogue, this is, no doubt, their finest hour.
From the guitar crunch of the Young brothers, from Malcolm's rock-solid rhythm playing to Angus's legendary riffs, licks and solos, this no doubt qualifies as a great guitar album. Then comes in the rhythm section of Cliff Williams on bass and Phil Rudd on drums, and while Phil Rudd may not have the same chops as John Bonham, Phil still makes his drums sound larger than life, which makes for a great cornerstone of the AC/DC groove. And then...Brian Johnson. Who would have thought after such a great lead singer as Bon Scott passed away, Brian Johnson would be able to fill in his role, and fill it in greatly, as well. His voice may take some getting used to, but he definitely sounds best on this album.
In addition, the remastering is excellent. The volume is up and there's no static or unneccesary noise that ruins the sound. After all, there's nothing as disappointing as hearing a great song like it was recorded a mile away! Anyway, this album is just flat-out excellent for those who dig such a sound. Ten songs at a little over forty minutes, and a cross between a hard-rock crunch and an old-school groove for each song, AC/DC did just about everything they could right on this album.
As a summary, this album will make you forget your problems, imagine these guys on stage at night in a big, sold-out arena, playing these rockers loudly and proudly, and, of course, prove to be a testament of time and rock and roll. And remember, take no pressure from the critics. Be your own person! Rock out and feel good about it! And remember, "rock and roll ain't noise pollution...it just makes good, good sense!" Peace!

One of the best CDs ever...REMASTERED.......2007-06-27

I owned an original copy of Back in Black and played it constantly. It's an ideal CD for road trips and just incredible rock from beginning to end. I didn't think anything could possibly improve it until I heard the remastered version. Suddenly the bass comes out more, the drums are even more in your face, the vocals are clearer, it just ROCKS even more. There are plenty of bad remasters out there of various classic albums, but thankfully, this is not one of them.

The rebirth of AC/DC .......2007-05-16

Hands down the best AC/DC CD. This is the cream of the crop, and it doesn't get any better than this. To this day, each song rocks loud and hard, and vocalist Brian Johnson was never better. A must for any hard rock collection, your ears will be bleeding.

It does'nt get much Better than this!!.......2007-05-11

Of course, In my humble opinion, this album is in my Top Ten of all-time. It rocks, it's bluesy,crushing, sneering and has that "I'm badder than you attitude." And it's just a lot of FUN. Really, what more could you want in a Rock album? Get your hands on this bad boy!!!

Back In Black again.......2007-04-12

This is one of the best albums of all time and if you don't believe me check any registered music critic's top 100 list and you'll see it there somewhere. Not only is it a fun album and one that brings constant memories of high school flooding back to me; it really is a very well put together record. Coming off the death of lead singer Bon Scott, the Young boys and their co-horts hopped onto the Brian Johnson wagon and headed into the studio. With the fists to the air and groin to the ground "You Shook Me All Night Long" this album was off and running all over the world. The sound on the remaster is excellant and so are the liner notes some of which make you really listen to the album. The mixture of old blues and hard rock is more evident than I originally had even thought of and just the hard rocking fun of the title track, the grinding "Rock & Roll Ain't Noise Pollution" and "Giving The Dog A Bone" is just plain exciting. If you haven't heard it in a while I highly suggest you throw that old cassette into the boom box and give it another go - or better yet get this remaster, I know you want it.

Anchored in Love: A Tribute To June Carter Cash

Average customer rating:

Great Tribute to a Great Lady
June Carter Cash :Remarkable, Admired, Rare, & Legendary

Anchored in Love: A Tribute To June Carter Cash
Various
Manufacturer: Dualtone
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Anchored In Love: An Intimate Portrait of June Carter Cash
Compadres: An Anthology of Duets
Last of the Breed
Wagonmaster
We All Love Ella: Celebrating the First Lady of Song

ASIN: B000P2A6B6
Release Date: 2007-06-05

Tracks:

If I Were a Carpenter ~ SHERYL CROW & WILLIE NELSON
Jackson ~ CARLENE CARTER & RONNIE DUNN
Wildwood Flower ~ LORETTA LYNN
Far Side Banks of Jordan ~ PATTY LOVELESS & KRIS KRISTOFFERSON
Keep on the Sunny Side ~ BRAD PAISLEY
Wings of Angels ~ ROSANNE CASH
Ring of Fire ~ ELVIS COSTELLO
Road to Kaintuck ~ BILLY BOB THORTON & THE PEASALL SISTERS
Big Yellow Peaches ~ GREY DE LISLE
Kneeling Drunkard's Plea ~ BILLY JOE SHAVER
Will the Circle Be Unbroken ~ RALPH STANLEY
Song to John ~ EMMYLOU HARRIS

Amazon.com

Because family values and devotion were so fundamental to June Carter Cash, it was inevitable that this tribute album--produced by her son, John Carter Cash--would encompass the legacy of the Carter Family and her marriage to (and musical partnership with) Johnny Cash. The pairings that revive the June-and-Johnny duets are a mixed bag, as Willie Nelson never really meshes with Sheryl Crow on "If I Were a Carpenter," but daughter Carlene Carter and Ronnie (of Brooks and) Dunn absolutely nail "Jackson" with their rambunctious interplay. Among the other highlights, stepdaughter Rosanne Cash gives a luminous spirituality to "Wings of an Angel," while Emmylou Harris will bring a lump to every throat with the closing "Song to John," a testament to eternal love and the afterlife. As June's signature instrument, the autoharp figures prominently in many of the arrangements, including Elvis Costello's rendition of "Ring of Fire." As for June's legendary lineage, Ralph Stanley's "Will the Circle Be Unbroken," Loretta Lynn's "Wildwood Flower," and Brad Paisley's "Keep on the Sunny Side" all attest to the Carter Family's seminal influence not only on daughter June, but on country music as a whole. --Don McLeese

Album Description

This all-star tribute album was conceived and produced by John Carter Cash, the only child of Johnny and June, and features songs written by or associated with the beloved singer, and performed by an eclectic collection of family and friends such as Elvis Costello, Billy Bob Thornton, Sheryl Crow, Willie Nelson, Emmylou Harris, Loretta Lynn, and more. This release will coincide with the publication of John's book, "Anchored In Love: An Intimate Portrait Of June Carter Cash". The only biography of June available, it chronicles her life from childhood to the early days of touring with the Carter Family band, her marriages before Johnny Cash, her early fame, her romance with Johnny, and the ups and downs that followed. It paints a dramatic, never-before-told portrait of struggle and success, and how the power of true love eventually overcomes all obstacles.

Customer Reviews:

Great Tribute to a Great Lady.......2007-07-08

I love the songs John chose to include in this album. His choice of performers is excellent, too.

June Carter Cash :Remarkable, Admired, Rare, & Legendary .......2007-06-10

4.5 stars
"To describe the late June Carter Cash as remarkable, admired, rare, and legendary would accurately express the responses she evoked both from the public and from those who knew her well. Yet to simply heap superlatives and ignore the multiple dimensions to a life which inspired such words would do a disservice to such an endearing woman's memory. When one considers that June Carter Cash was a member of the preeminent family in American roots music, on her own merits a talented singer-songwriter who penned one of country music's most enduring hits ("Ring of Fire") and, perhaps what she will be longest remembered for, served as the muse and deliverer for one of the most charismatic performers in the history of both country and rock music, such words suddenly seem less encompassing than they once did." Arik Danielson

Since June Carter and Johnny Cash died there have been several memorials to them. The movie 'Walk the Line' portrayed their life together. There have been several albums of Johnny Cash, but to this date none to celebrate the life and legend of June Carter Cash. June Carter is a member of the legendary Carter family. Her parents Ezra and Maybelle were credited for inventing country music. June Carter was country music even before marrying Johnny Cash.

John Carter Cash, June and Johnny's son,was as an executive producer on 'Walk the Line'. He has penned the book, 'Anchored in Love: An Intimate Portrait of June Carter Cash' and serves as producer for the collection of 12 musical songs on this CD. John's involvement gives this CD a family touch, which separates the record from typical tribute albums.

In his autobiography Cash, "Johnny Cash, speaking of his wife's musical talents and achievements, lamented, "Sadly, I think her contribution to country music will probably go under recognized simply because she's my wife; it certainly has been up to now. That's regrettable--my only regret, in fact, about marrying her". The songs featured on 'Anchored in Love' run the gamut of June Carter Cash's career. The album features six songs she either wrote or co-wrote,or made famous.

The CD begins with two of June and Johnny's duets. Willie Nelson and Sheryl Crow start with an country take of "If I Were a Carpenter" followed by Carlene Carter and Ronnie Dunn singing "Jackson". Carlene sounds remarkably like her mother, June. The CD features "Far Side Banks of Jordan", a Kris Kristofferson/Patty Loveless duet that is one of my favorites. The "Road to Kaintuck", subg by the Peaseall Sisters and Billy Bob Thornton. Loretta Lynn gives a beautiful semblence to 'Wildwood Flowers'. EmmyLou Harris sings 'Song To John',with a loving and gentle voice. Grey Delisle brings a fresh voice to 'Big Yellow Peaches. Roseanne Cash's rendition of 'Wings Of Angels' is etheral at times. A poignant moment on the CD. June Carter Cash wrote 'Ring of Fire' and Elvis Costello sings a toned down version to "focus more on June's rendition" as stated by her son John Carter Cash.

"This CD is a must have for anyone that loves the songs June Carter Cash sung over her long career. The cast of performers is as compendious as the list of musicians that have played at the Grand Ole Opry. And the performances are all flawless and enthralling." John Gilbertson

I remember June Carter Cash as a vivacious woman always by Johnny Cash's side. She obviously had a life of her own, but she is intertwined within that of her beloved husband. This tribute to his mother, by John Carter Cash, reminds us that June Carter Cash was a woman to be loved and admired for her intelligence and artisitic ability.
Highly Recommended. prisrob 06-09-07

American IV: The Man Comes Around

Carryin' On With Johnny Cash & June Carter

Anchored In Love: An Intimate Portrait of June Carter Cash

Keep On the Sunny Side: Her Life in Music

Average customer rating:

Alone In IZ World is worth a look
IZ
Relaxing and beautiful
Excellent CD
IZ, IZ, IZ!

Alone in IZ World
Israel Kamakawiwo'ole
Manufacturer: Mountain Apple Company
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Facing Future
In Dis Life
E Ala E
Ka 'Ano'i
IZ in Concert: The Man and His Music

ASIN: B00005O4UG
Release Date: 2001-09-25

Tracks:

Mona Lisa
Kaleohano
'Ulili E
Hanohano Wale No Na Cowboy and Ka Huila Wai
Hi'ilawe
Henehene Kou 'Aka
Ahi Wela / Twinkle Twinkle Little Star
'Opae E
Starting All Over Again
Over the Rainbow
Panini Puakea
La 'Elima
In This Life

Amazon.com

The artist behind Facing Future, the top-selling Hawaiian album of all time, the late Israel "IZ" Kamakawiwo'ole was possessed of a voice so sweet, so tender, and so lovely that it continues to deeply stir those who hear it long after he died. Lovingly assembled and notated by producer Jon de Mello, Alone in IZ World is comprised of both alternate versions of Kamakawio'ole's best-loved songs as well as tracks never before heard by the public. The latter category includes versions of "Hanohano No Na Cowboy," the playfully incomplete opening on "Mona Lisa," and "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star," on which IZ takes a rare turn at harmonizing with himself. In light of his premature passing, devastatingly beautiful alternate cuts of "Starting All Over Again" and "In This Life" are especially poignant. And "Over the Rainbow"--IZ's renditions were heard in Meet Joe Black and Finding Forrester--may never again sound so pure. --Paige La Grone

Album Description

new songs * enhanced arrangements * unplugged performances * on a cd-rom featuring photo gallery, bio, national and local press coverage, IZ sightings, screen saver and catalog

Customer Reviews:

Alone In IZ World is worth a look.......2007-07-05

This was the first Israel Kamakawiwo'ole cd I had listened to. I think despite the fact that at least one of the songs (Mona Lisa) wasn't finished it's an excellent CD. The song "Somewhere over the Rainbow" is a beautiful Hawaiian rendition of an old Classic. The CD is lighthearted, fun, and introspective at times, offering a track with audio from Iz talking about his battle with obesity (something hardcore Iz fans might enjoy). The word: if you have all of his CD's and love IZ get this one, if this is your first purchase, buy another and work your way up to this one later.

IZ.......2007-06-28

This is a special type of recording that not everyone would care for. It is what I would call a Kamaaina type of CD; i.e., if you like down home Hawaiian style, it's great. Having lived in HI for over 18 yrs, I really dig it. The reason I say this is that it's the type of recording that's rather "off-the-wall." There's false starts, talking and just plain uke strumming and picking up words as he goes along, but it's real. These are recordings as they actually happened rather than having been rehearsed. For those that have sat around a bonfire eating pig and poi, listening to uke players, I'm sure they will enjoy it!

Relaxing and beautiful.......2007-06-27

The tracks on this album are beautiful from Iz's rendition of "Mona Lisa" to the now familiar "Over the Rainbow". What is most haunting is hearing Iz speaking on several tracks, especially his views about death and losing his family members. A definite must have.

Excellent CD.......2007-05-27

I love this cd. I've owned it for over 5 years. I bought this copy for my mom, whom adores his version of "Over the Rainbow". If you ever want to mentally transport yourself to Hawaii, this is the way. Love it!

IZ, IZ, IZ!.......2007-05-12

Since I am not from Hawaii I don't profess to identify with the political and cultural aspects of IZ's music, so all I can really say is that I find IZ's music just plain nice to listen to, especially when its just him and his uke. Need to relax, need to kick back and drift away to the Islands then this will do it for you. Get rid of the pills and pick up a dose of IZ to calm the tensions of the day. Of course you'll have to resist going out to purchase a one way ticket to Hawaii.....or will you?

Average customer rating:

Not the Best of Barbra
Streisand: Live in Concert (2 CD's)
Streisand: Live in Concert (2 CD's)
Babs lets loose
Streisand: Live In Concert

Streisand: Live In Concert (2 CD's)
Barbra Streisand
Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Call Me Irresponsible
Barbra Streisand - One Voice
Duets: An American Classic
A Star Is Born
Curtains (2007 Original Broadway Cast)

ASIN: B000JBXXXG
Release Date: 2007-05-08

Tracks:

Funny Girl Broadway Overture
Starting Here, Starting Now
Opening Remarks
Down With Love
The Way We Were
Songwriting (Dialogue)
Ma Premiere Chanson
Evergreen
Come Rain Or Come Shine
Funny Girl
Funny Girl
The Music That Makes Me Dance
My Man
People
People

Tracks:

Entr'acte
The Music Of The Night
Jason's Theme
Carefully Taught/Children Will Listen
Unusual Way
What Are You Doing The Rest Of Your Life?
Happy Days Are Here Again
(Have I Stayed) Too Long At The Fair?
William Saroyan (Dialogue)
The Time Of Your Life
A Cockeyed Optimist
Somewhere
Somewhere
My Shining Hour
Don't Rain On My Parade
Smile

Amazon.com

There's a reason Barbra Streisand's 2006 tour broke the arena house record in every city it visited, and it's because she's not only a legend but (still) a performer who effortlessly twists intimacy and friendliness and fierceness into a perfect, sturdy braid. This two-disc set, which pulls performances from dates in New York, Washington, D.C., and Fort Lauderdale, will raise its share of goosebumps. For longtime fans, they'll be a reaction to songs Streisand hasn't touched since the '70s and earlier, including "(Have I Stayed) Too Long At the Fair?" and "Unusual Way," from the Broadway musical Nine. For relative newbies, they'll be a response to her between-song patter, which touches with grace, wit, and sincerity on everything from her love for her son to her political leanings to her limitations as songwriter. The voice, of course, enthralls--there it is glowing on "Carefully Taught," one of four songs that have never before appeared on a Streisand recording, and there it is again wrapping luxurious tones all around "Evergreen," one of three songs she shares with Il Divo. Streisand--diva, political dynamo, superstar--still knows how to orchestrate a showstopper. --Tammy La Gorce

More from Barbra

A Star is Born

Duets

The Broadway Album

The Barbra Streisand Album

Guilty Pleasures

The Essential Barbra Streisand

Customer Reviews:

Not the Best of Barbra.......2007-07-07

Streisand's lastest CD, *Guilty Pleasures* was a feast of songs she had never sung before, and a reunion with Barry Gibb, who writes for Barbra in a more contemporary way than the Bergmans or Marvin Hamlisch. It is a great CD, and her voice is sublime, aided, of course, by sound technicians. All artists owe their sound engineers their careers though. She and Barry have fun on it--it's fresh and alive. Not so much with the 2006 Concert CD, a recording of the concert tour, replete with IL Divo, a mostly unnecessary addition. They are wooden men with BIG, BORING voices.

From the beginning, Babs sounds tired, hoarse and raspy. I saw her in concert, where she sometimes sounded even worse than this recording. The engineers cleaned it up as well as they could, leaving more than a hint of breathiness and weariness. Fortunately, only about half of the songs are weakly rendered; the other half really are terrific experiences. I have no idea what is going on with her voice that from song to song there could be such differences, but if I were Streisand I would leave the belting behind. It wouldn't hurt for her to warm up before she comes onstage, not as she is giving the concert. For any price, a fan would expect the performer to be well prepared. When she sings a soft ballad, she often soars, and her magic is prominent. It's painful to watch her crumble under the memory of her once youthful voice (and it was only a few years ago that she sounded like a 25 year old songstress). Streisand knows how to play a song for all its worth, but she sometimes tramples it to death. *Don't Rain in My Parade* is just not what it used to be. She hits high notes, but without the characteristic force. And she can hold the notes, or seem to, when she takes little breaks before each song's finale. Her phrasing is impeccable when she is giving it all she has to give, but too often she seems bored. This is not a bad CD, just not as inspired as *The Concert.*

It also has to be said that it seems apparent Streisand is not taking care of her God-given voice, one she herself has said that she takes for granted (unimaginable!!).

The chatter inbetween songs is dull and preachy, and it was exactly the same in every city, except for blabbering about the fattening food she ate all across the US (excluded from the CD, thank the Lord). The fans are really the stars on this CD--they roar constantly, as if they had been starving to see Streisand all their lives. It's an odd treat. The orchestra is incredible, but live, it drowns her out at times (as does IL Divo). This recording does not relfect that though.

If you do not own *The Concert* CD, buy it and skip this one. This CD is for avid, adoration-is-blind Streisand fans only and those keeping track of Streisand's vocal history..

Streisand: Live in Concert (2 CD's).......2007-06-27

Whenever I hear Barbra sing it feels as if I were listening to an angel....The depth of her voice, the feeling she caries in every song she sings makes you fall in love, feel despair, feel hapinness or sadness....She is capable of making you feel the letter of her songs....A true Diva....My only regret is that I will never be able to see her live.....I hope they make a DVD of this concert so I can see her perform live at least on the TV set...

Streisand: Live in Concert (2 CD's).......2007-06-26

This concert is very unique.
You are able to hear her great, mellow voice and in between songs, she talk to the audience on a personal level.
Barbara explains why she sings some of her songs, and as she's talking, she makes you feel that she is talking directly to you.

Barbara Streisand is stylish, wonderful person and performer.

I LOVE these concert CD's!

MIKE

Babs lets loose.......2007-06-13

I LOVE Barbra Streisand! I just needed to let that out. I am so happy that her wacky stage antics were finally set to music and it was captured like a baby leopard in Ghana. You never know what Babs is going throw at you. Is she going to come on stage dressed like a cowgirl riding a donkey? Is she going to shoot hot dogs otu of one of those hot dog shooting things? You never know and that is that magic of Babs. Her voice is about as good as Beyonce's, but she has better material. I'll usually grab the newest issue of Black Tail magazine, go to my treehouse and put this classic platter on. It is soothing to listen to Babs rock the mic like a fiend. I personally would have hired Burns to play keyboards on this tour because along with being a master of his craft, he's tall and will do nutty things on stage. There was this one time at an asschowder show where he wrote "right" and "left" on his pantlegs and did this bit where he pretended he couldn't tell which one was which before lauching into a floor exercise routine that would have won the silver at the Helsinki Olympics.

Anway, this is Babs being Babs, which is a treat for you. She and Hasselhoff should tour together and make the world a better place for all animals.

Streisand: Live In Concert.......2007-06-13

We attended her concert when she played the Staple Center in L.A. and knew we would be first in line to get the C.D.. The recording is fabulous and with the selection of new songs and her narrations of each song, she places them historically in her long career. What can I say, she is still a sensational vocalist and well intended political activist. However, the political comments are edited out of the C.D.

Music:

Music

music

A Star is Born	Duets	The Broadway Album
The Barbra Streisand Album	Guilty Pleasures	The Essential Barbra Streisand