Take Me Back

take me back

Track Listings

1. Leave That Liar Alone

2. Sweet Sunny South

3. I Love You a Thousand Ways

4. Just Someone I Used to Know

5. Down to the Valley to Pray - Tim O'Brien

6. Wave the Ocean, Wave the Sae

7. Your Long Journey

8. When the Roses Bloom in Dixieland

9. Unwed Fathers

10. Nobody's Fault But Mine - Tim O'Brien

11. Papa's on the Housetop - Tim O'Brien

12. Dream of the Miner's Child

13. Christ Was Born in Bethlehem

Take Me Back,Tim & Mollie O'Brien,Sugar Hill,Contemporary Folk,Neo-Traditional Folk,Singer/Songwriter

Take Me Back

Average customer rating:

amazing collection
"What A Great Deal !
"Come in, Tommy..."
HERE THEY ALL COME!
Red Hot Jazz Cowboy blues band!

Take Me Back to Tulsa
Bob Wills
Manufacturer: Proper UK Boxed Sets
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Doughboys, Playboys and Cowboys: The Golden Years of Western Swing
Recordings 1927-1933
Ride With Bob
The King of Western Swing: 25 Hits (1935-1945)
For the Last Time

ASIN: B00005TO15
Release Date: 2001-12-03

Tracks:

Nancy Jane - Fort Worth Doughboys
Sunbonnet Sue - Fort Worth Doughboys
Osage Stomp
Get With It
Spanish Two Step
Maiden's Prayer
I Ain't Got Nobody
Who Walks in When I Walk Out
Oklahoma Rag
Smith's Reel
Weary of the Same Ol' Stuff
No Matter How She Done It
Bluin' the Blues
Red Hot Gal of Mine
Steel Guitar Rag
What's the Matter With the Mill?
Sugar Blues
Basin Street Blues
Too Busy
Fan It
There's No Disappointment in Heaven
Swing Blues No. 1
Playboy Stomp
T for Texas (Blue Yodel No. 1)
Never No More Hard Times Blues
Oozlin' Daddy Blues

Tracks:

Black Rider
Pray for the Lights to Go Out
San Antonio Rose
Carolina in the Morning
Silver Bells (That Ring in the Night)
Beaumont Rag
Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star
Whoa Baby
I Wonder If You Feel the Way I Do
My Window Faces the South
That's What I Like About the South
Waltz You Saved for Me
Prosperity Special
Don't Let the Deal Go Down
You're Okay
Lone Star Rag
Corrine, Corrina
Bob Wills Special
Time Changes Everything
Big Beaver
New San Antonio Rose
I Knew the Moment I Lost You
Twin Guitar Special
Take Me Back to Tulsa
Takin' It Home
Please Don't Leave Me
Cherokee Maiden
Dusty Skies
My Life's Been a Pleasure

Tracks:

We Might as Well Forget It
Home in San Antone
Liberty
Miss Molly
You're from Texas
Goodbye Liza Jane
My Confession
Texas Playboy Rag
Roly Poly
Stay a Little Longer
Just a Plain Old Country Boy
New Spanish Two-Step
I'm Feelin' Bad
Cotton Eyed Joe
Brain Cloudy Blues
Bob Wills Boogie
Fat Boy Rag
Good Man Is Hard to Find
Little Bit of Boogie
Along the Navajo Trail
Baby Won't You Please Come Home
Betcha My Heart
Chinatown
Dinah
Frankie Jean
Hawaiian War Chant

Tracks:

I'm a Ding Dong Daddy
Milk Cow Blues
My Gal Sal
Red River Valley
Sugar Moon
Sweet Jennie Lee
Girl I Left Behind Me
At the Woodchopper's Ball
Blues for Dixie
Bubbles in My Beer
Can't Get Enough of Texas
Cotton Patch Blues
Cowboy Stomp
Crazy Rhythm
Deep Water
Don't Be Ashamed of Your Age
Keeper of My Heart
Little Cowboy Lament
Thorn in My Heart
Ida Red Likes to Boogie
Boot Heel Drag
Faded Love
I Laugh When I Think How I Cried Over You
I'll Be Lucky Someday
I Didn't Realise
Rock-A-Bye Baby Blues
Jolie Blon Likes the Boogie
End of the Line

Album Description

UK budget-price box-set featuring the pioneer of western swing, he played blues, rags, stomps, ballads and jazz in a style that became much imitated. 119 tracks and including a 52 page illustrated booklet. Four standard jewel cases housed in a slipcase. 2001.

Album Details

Compilation featuring 109 Tracks from the King of Western Swing. Includes Every Important Track Recordedbetween the Years 1932 and 1950 as Well as a 52 Page Booklet with a Biography, Session Details and Rarephotos.

Customer Reviews:

amazing collection.......2007-06-01

An incredible bargain ... the only surprise is that it doesn't have "Right or Wrong," which is on the one-disc "Essential" collection.

"What A Great Deal !.......2006-06-29

I own 2 other Bob Wills box sets - Anthology 1935 - 1973, which is a 2 CD set with a lot of good music on it, mostly old. I also have the box set "Encore" that has all Bob's newer stuff from the early 60's (when Tommy Duncan came back) to his recordings in the early 70's before his death (at this time in his career his band cosisted of a lot less members and no horns)both these sets are "pretty" good. But this set from Proper Records "Take me back to Tulsa" is one of the Best deals on the internet today. I paid about 18 bucks for this set "Brand New" and it has four CD's that are loaded with tons of great music going all the way back to when Bob was still playing with Milton Brown (Proper's box set "Milton Brown and his Brownies" is also pretty darn good,but it doesn't have that Wills Western Flair). Bottom line if you are a fan of Western Swing and can't afford at this time to put out about $700.00 for the two Outstanding Bear Family box sets then go for this one, over 100 Great songs you won't be disappointed....the price is right too! "Enjoy" Joe Kopeck - Parkville , MD.

"Come in, Tommy...".......2006-01-06

This boxed set is amazing for the sheer volume of wonderful music it proffers at a fraction of what one would expect to pay for it. Concentrating on the early years, it presents Bob Wills at the dawn of his recording career and continues through the height of his creativity. This is the cream of early Bob Wills, and contains about 60% of his very best material (I am long of the opinion that Bob Wills never made a bad record in his life, and he continued to be productive through his so-called "lean years" of the 1950's, 1960's and beyond). But these tracks are the classics that most fans cherish above all.

Tommy Duncan, Wills' favorite featured vocalist, appears here on many sides, including Time Changes Everything (my personal Bob Wills favorite) and many others. Besides the early Columbia sides, there are examples of his Decca years and other smaller labels. A few of my own favorites include My Little Cherokee Maiden (close runner-up to Time Changes Everything as my favorite Bob Wills record) Sunbonnet Sue (recorded with Milton Brown and His Brownies before Bob formed the Playboys) Maiden's Prayer, Steel Guitar Rag, Basin Street Blues, San Antonio Rose, Silver Bells, Lone Star Rag (an overlooked masterpiece, and one of the catchiest instrumental tunes you've ever heard), Take Me Back To Tulsa, Miss Molly, My Confession, Roly Poly, Hawaiian War Chant, Sugar Moon, Bubbles In My Beer, Deep Water, Faded Love (which Bob wrote and Patsy Cline had a monster hit with) and I Laugh When I Think How I Cried Over You (what a great title!).

For anyone who doesn't know, Bob Wills was a fiddle player who played his first professional gig as a young boy, substituting for his father at a barn dance. Although he grew up around Western music, the Wills family lived in a poor area where there were many black families, and very early he was exposed to and grew to love the Blues and other forms of traditional African-American music. Legend has it that he once rode fifty miles on horseback to attend a Bessie Smith recital, and was the only white person in the audience. He was one of the founding members of Milton Brown and His Brownies, the band credited with creating the style of music now known as Western Swing. When he started his own band, the Texas Playboys, he took a cue from Count Basie and included Brass, Horns and rhythm instruments, and if he couldn't claim to actually invent Western Swing, he certainly perfected it. In the 1940's he was one of the highest paid bandleaders in the US.

Bob was most famous for his "calls" or "hollers". When the band got hot, he would frequently holler "Ahhhhh-hahhhh" or prod them along with such exclamations as "Take it away, Leon" or "Here's that old piano pounder". Or, if the band was playing below his expectations, he would shout, "Johnny in key, please" or virtually anything else that came into his mind.

For many years during the height of his popularity, Bob and his music were rejected by the orthodox country music establishment for being too "jazzy" and ignored by the jazz world for being too "hillbilly". Western Swing is a blend of jazz and western music - it is primarily dance music, with a strong emphasis on vocals (like country), but it also includes jazz instruments like saxophone and trumpets. What makes it most unique are instruments that are traditionally associated with country music (like fiddles and steel guitars), being employed in a "swing" or jazz fashion. Any performance by Bob Wills Texas Playboys incorporates spotlight solos, improvisation and other musical trademarks generally associated with jazz. In other words, his band and his music are totally unique.

Fortunately, there was a revival of interest in Bob Wills and his music which started in the 1960's and continues to this day. After his death in 1974, there was an explosion of new Western Swing bands, with young admirers anxious to copy the Bob Wills sound and keep Western Swing alive. Even country music has finally paid him his due, for today Bob Wills is proudly embraced and revered in country circles as a pioneer and a true original. He is now acknowledged as one of the first to incorporate African American rhythm and Jazz into country music, and his influence has been acknowledged by such diverse artists as Elvis Presley, Willie Nelson, Merle Haggard and even Elvis Costello.

If you are not familiar with Bob Wills, you can't go wrong with this set as an introduction, especially at this price.

HERE THEY ALL COME!.......2005-09-13

Some of these songs aren't on any of the other CD's and if they are, they're different versions. A couple you will want to hear if you haven't already are "Fan It" and "Pray for the Lights To Go Out"- MAN, ARE THOSE OLD BUT GOOD!! "Cowboy Stomp" is another one I hadn't heard before that's in this collection. Anybody who loves Bob Wills should have this, it is worth every penny.

Red Hot Jazz Cowboy blues band!.......2005-01-13

Mix two parts twenties jazz, one part blues, one part swing, two parts honky tonk, and one part crooning music and what do you have? Bob Wills and His Texas Playboy Band! I was turned on to this band by their recording of "Too Busy," which sounds like a cross between early fifties rock and roll and dixieland jazz. These guys were hot! Bob Wills and his band were a perfect example of a group of musicians who played live several hours a day, perfecting their craft - not the talentless celebrities of today who rely on tape loops and beat machines. This set is an unbelievable value. You get four cds for 22$! And this isn't filler. Each cd has songs that you will want to download into your ipod. Excellent!

Average customer rating:

I waited for this for five years
Excellent collection but BIG PUBLISHING MISTAKE!
ONE OF LLOYD WEBBER'S BEST COMPILATIONS, DESPITE A FEW FLAWS
SUCH MAGICAL MUSIC OF THE NIGHT!
A Must Have for Sir Andrew fans

Andrew Lloyd Webber: Now & Forever
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Decca Broadway
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

Gold: The Definitive Hits Collection
The Very Best Of Andrew Lloyd Webber: The Broadway Collection
Evita (Original London Cast)
Andrew Lloyd Webber - The Royal Albert Hall Celebration
Andrew Lloyd Webber - Masterpiece (Collector's Edition) (Bonus CD)

ASIN: B00005R5UJ
Release Date: 2001-11-20

Tracks:

Jesus Christ Superstar: Overture - Andrew Lloyd Webber
Jesus Christ Superstar: Everything's Alright - Yvonne Elliman/Murray Head/Ian Gilllan
Jesus Christ Superstar: I Don't Know How To Love Him - Yvonne Elliman
Jesus Christ Superstar: Gethsemane (I Only Want To Say) - Steve Balsamo
Jesus Christ Superstar: Superstar - Murray Head
Evita: Oh What A Circus/Sing You Fools - Antonio Banderas
Evita: I'd Be Surprisingly Good For You - Elaine Paige/Joss Ackland
Evita: Another Suitcase In Another Hall - Barbara Dickson
Evita: Don't Cry For Me Argentina - Julie Covington
Evita: High Flying, Adored - Mandy Patinkin/Patti LuPone
Cats: The Jellicle Ball - Andrew Lloyd Weber
Cats: Memory - Elaine Paige
Cats: Gus: The Theatre Cat - Susan Jane Tanner/John Mills
Cats: Mr Mistoffelees - Paul Nicholas
Song And Dance: Take That Look Off Your Face - Marti Webb
Song And Dance: Tell Me On A Sunday - Marti Webb
Song And Dance: Unexpected Song - Sarah Brightman
Song And Dance: Nothing Like You've Ever Known - Sarah Brightman
Song And Dance: Introduction - Andrew Lloyd Webber
Song And Dance: Variations 1 -4 - Andrew Lloyd Webber

Tracks:

Starlight Express: Starlight Express - El Debarge
Starlight Express: Crazy - Greg Ellis/Reva Rice/Caron Cardelle/Samantha Lane/Voyd
Starlight Express: Next Time You Fall In Love - Reva Rice/Greg Ellis
Starlight Express: I Am The Starlight - Lon Satton/Ray Shell
Starlight Express: Light At The End Of The Tunnel - The Company
Requiem: Hosanna - Placido Domingo
Requiem: Pie jesu - Sarah Brightman/Paul Miles-Kingston
The Phantom Of The Opera: The Phantom Of The Opera - Michael Crawford/Sarah Brightman
The Phantom Of The Opera: The Music Of The Night - Michael Crawford
The Phantom Of The Opera: All I Ask Of You - Sarah Brightman/Steve Barton
The Phantom Of The Opera: Entr'acte - Andrew Lloyd Webber
The Phantom Of The Opera: Masquerade - The Company
The Phantom Of The Opera: Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again - Sarah Brightman
Aspects Of Love: Aspects Of Aspects - Orchester Der Vereinigten Buehnen Wien
Aspects Of Love: Love Changes Everything - Michael Ball
Aspects Of Love: Seeing Is Believing - Michael Ball/Ann Crumb
Aspects Of Love: The First Man You Remember - Kevin Colson/Diana Morrison
Aspects Of Love: Anything But Lonely - Sarah Brightman
Aspects Of Love: Chanson D'Enfance - Sarah Brightman

Tracks:

Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat: Any Dream Will Do - Jason Donovan
Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat: Joseph's Coat - Maria Friedman/Richard Attenborough/Donny Osmond
Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat: Close Every Door - Donny Osmond
By Jeeves: Travel Hopefully - John Scherer/Martin Jarvis/Don Stephenson
By Jeeves: When Love Arrives - Steven Pacey/Diana Morrison
By Jeeves: Half A Moment - Sarah Brightman
Sunset Boulevard: With One Look - Glenn Close
Sunset Boulevard: New Ways To Dream - Glenn Close/Alan Campbell
Sunset Boulevard: The Perfect Year - Glenn Close/Alan Campbell
Sunset Boulevard: Sunser Boulevard - Alan Campbell
Sunset Boulevard: As If We Never Said Goodbye - Glenn Close
Whistle Down The Wind: Whistle Down The Wind - James Graeme/Lottie Mayor
Whistle Down The Wind: Cold - Everly Brothers
Whistle Down The Wind: No Matter What - Children/Adult Chorus
Whistle Down The Wind: The Nature Of The Beast - Marcus Lovett/Lottie Mayor
The Beautiful Game: Overture - Andrew Lloyd Webber
The Beautiful Game: The Beautiful Game - The Company
The Beautiful Game: Our Kind Of Love - Hannah Waddingham
The Beautiful Game: Dont Like You - Josie Walker/David Shannon
The Beautiful Game: Let Us Love In Peace - Josie Walker/Omagh Youth Community Choir

Tracks:

Oh What A Circus - David Essex
Memory - Betty Buckley
The Phantom Of The Opera - Sarah Brightman/Steve Harley
All I Ask Of You - Sarah Brightman/Cliff Richard
Love Changes Everything - Michael Ball
Any Dream Will Do - Donny Osmond
Amigos Para Siempre (Friends For Life) - Sarah Brightman/Jose Carreras
As If We Never Said Goodbye - Barbra Streisand
The Perfect Year - Dina Carroll
With One Look - Petula Clark
You Must Love Me - Madonna
The Heart Is Slow To Learn - Kiri Te Kanawa
A Kiss Is A Terrible Thing To Waste - The Metal Philharmonic Orchestra
Whistle Down The Wind - Tina Arena
No Matter What - Boyzone
The Vaults Of Heaven - Tom Jones
Try Not To Be Afraid - Boy George
Pie Jesu - Charlotte Church

Tracks:

Make Believe Love - Wes Sands
Down Thru' Summer - Ross Hannaman
I'll Give All My Love To Southend - Ross Hannaman
Believe Me I Will - Sacha Distel
Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (1969 Radio Luxembourg Commercial) - Joseph Consortium/Pete Murray
Try It And See - Rita Pavone
Come Back Richard Your Country Needs You - Time Rice And The Webber Group
Goodbye Seattle - Paul Raven
John 19:41 - The Andrew Lloyd Webber Orchestra
What A Line To Go Out On - Yvonne Elliman
Disillusion Me - Gary Band
The Ballad Of Robert And Peter - Tim Rice
Christmas Dream - Maynard Williams
It's Only Your Lover Returning/All Through My Crazy And Wild Days/Don't Cry For Me Argentina - Julie Covington
It's Easy For You (1977 Jungle Room Session Version) - Elvis Presley
Magdalena - Tony Christie
Buenos Aires - The Roja Rockers
Pollicle Dogs And Jellicle Cats - Andrew Lloyd Webber
Mungojerrie And Rumpleteazer (Live At The Sydmonton Festival 1980) - Gemma Craven
I Could Have Given You More - Petula Clark
I've Been In Love Too Long - Marti Webb
Benedicite - The Stephen Hill Singers

Album Description

Disc 1: Selections from Jesus Christ Superstar, Evita, Cats, and Song and Dance

Disc 2: Selections from Starlight Express, Requiem, Phantom of the Opera, and Aspects of Love

Disc 3: Selections from Joseph nad the Amaziong Technicolor Dreamcoat, By Jeeves, Sunset Boulevard, Whistle Down the Wind, and The Beautiful Game

CD 4: 1. "Oh What a Circus" --David Essex 2. "Memory" - Betty Buckleey 3. "The Phantom of the Opera" -Sarah Brightman, Steve Harley 4. "All I Ask of You" --Sarah Brightman, Cliff Richard 5. "Love Changes Everything"--Michael Ball 6. "Any Dream Will Do"--Donny Osmond 7. "Amigos Para Siempre (Friends for Life)"--Sarah Brightman, Jose Caerras 8. "As if We Never Said Goodbye"--Barbra Streisand 9. "The Perfect Year"--Dina Carroll 10. "With One Look" --Petula Clark 11. "You Must Love Me" 12. "The Heart Is Slow To Learn" --Kiri Te Kanawa 13. "Whistle Down the Wind"--Tina Arena 14. "A Kiss Is a Terrible Thing To Waste"--The Metal Philharmonic 15. "No Matter What"--Boyzone 16. "The Vaults of Heaven"--Tom Jones and Sounds of Blackness 17. "Try Not To Be Afraid"--Boy George 18. "Pie Jesu"--Charlotte Church

Disc 5: (All tracks available for the first time) 1. "Make Believe Love"--Wes Sands 2. "Down Thru' Summer"--Ross Hannaman 3. "I'll Give All My Love to Southend"--Ross Hannaman 4. "Believe Me I Will"--Sacha Distel 5. "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat: 1969 Luxembourg Radio Commercial--The Jospeh Consortium, Pete Murray 6. "Try It and See"--Rita Pavone 7. "Come Back Richard Your Country Needs You"--Tim Rice and the Webber Group 8. "Goodbye Seattle"-- Paul Raven 9. "John 19:41"--The Andrew Lloyd Webber Orchestra 10. "What a Line To Go Out On"--Yvonne Elliman 11. "Disillusion Me" --Gary Bond 12. "The Ballad of Robert and Peter"--Tim Rice 13. "Christmas Dream" --Maynard Williams 14. "It's Only Your Lover Returning/All through My Wild and Crazy Days/Don't Cry for Me Argentina--Julie Covington 15. "It's Easy for You" (1977 Jungle Room Session version)--Elvis Presley 16. "Magdalena"--Tony Christie 17. "Buenos Aires"--The Rioja Rockers 18. "Pollicle Dogs and Jellicle Cats"--Andrew Lloyd Webber original demo 19. "Mungojerrie and Rumpleteazer" (Live at Sydmonton Festival 1980)-Gemma Craven 20. "I Could Have Given You More"--Petula Clark 21. "I've Been in Love Too Long"--Marti Webb 22. "Benedicte"-- Stephen Hill Singers

Customer Reviews:

I waited for this for five years.......2006-06-30

Between Amazone, Ebay and Napster, I don't usually buy CDs anymore, and I usually wait till I can buy them cheaper "new and used". When this set came out, I was excited, mainly by Disc 5, but wasn't going to spend $70 on it. I waited till it was cheap enough, and got it for Father's day this year.
It was worth the wait.

The concept is great. The packaging is great. The recording is great. Disc five is really cool for an ALW aficionado. There are a few real gems on it; my favorites are Petula Clark's "I Could Have Given You More" and "Benedicite."
I've always thought "Gus the Theatre Cat" made a great medley on the piano with "Unexpected Song" and "I DOn't Know How to Love Him," but wished there was an alternate lyric to match the other two songs. Now that I know there *is*, and it's a good lyric, it's a dream come true.
The melody of "Benedicite" is one of my favorites from _Sunset_ (the book mis-identifies it as "SUrrender"; it's actually "The Lady's Paying" and "Eternal Youth is Worth a Little Suffering"). The lyrics are the canticle from Daniel 3, which comes up every odd Sunday in the Divine Office, so it's nice to have cool music to sing it with.

I haven't bought _By Jeeves_ or _THe Beautiful Game_ yet, to it was great to sample them.

There are other parts of the CD taht aren't found in my collection. I like CD 4 "The Hits."

But the selections on CDs 1-3 don't make sense.

First, any self-respecting ALW fan has the Original London Cast of _Phantom_, so six tracks are totally useless. Why not draw from the Canadian cast with Colm Wilkinson? Or pull out some obscure recordings never published.

Why two different tracks with Michael Ball singing "Love Changes Everything", yet they're hardly any different?

On Disc 5 is "It's Only Your Lover Returning," sung by Julie Covington. It's an early draft of the song (Lloyd Webber and Rice went through several suggested titles) and quite nice. The very thing one expects on a Boxed Set.
So why have the Julie Covington "Don't Cry for Me" on disc 1?? The only difference is a few words, but it's otherwise identical. Why not Elaine Paige or Patti Lupone or Madonna?

The _Evita_ section is otherwise the best, choosing a sample from each major recording, though I'd have chosen slightly differently (as above).

There is a great selection of "Mungojerrie and Rumpleteazer" from the Sydmonton festival, using the original music that was changed when _Cats_ went to Broadway_. It would have been nice if they'd included more recordings from Sydmonton, like the original lyric of "All I Ask of You" shown on the second DVD to the _Phantom_ movie.

With so many great actress-singers who've played Norma Desmond, why does the collection beat us over the head with Glenn Close?

Paul Miles Kingston must be set for life in royalties, for the number of albums the original recording of "Pie Jesu" has appeared on. "Amigos Para Siempre" is nice, but it reminds me of Shari Lewis's "The Song that Doesn't End," especially when it's been used on so many compilations.

In short, this is a great collection for the obscure material, if you can get it cheap. But for a boxed set, it's a poor sampling, drawn mostly from the most familiar recordings.

Excellent collection but BIG PUBLISHING MISTAKE! .......2006-01-10

Please beware they made a mistake on this. It's actually the shortened Ray Shell version of STARLIGHT EXPRESS from the original 1984 London cast - NOT the El Debarge single from 1987 like it says on the box. I don't know how they let that goof pass. Sorry to Ray Shell. Having said that, this is an outstanding compilation of Lloyd Webber's greatest hits.

ONE OF LLOYD WEBBER'S BEST COMPILATIONS, DESPITE A FEW FLAWS.......2005-03-21

Regardless of the fact that some of his latest efforts (most notably, The Woman in White) are disappointing, there can be little doubt that Andrew Lloyd Webber is one of the greatest composers ever to work in the musical theatre. Ever since his "Jesus Christ Superstar" hit the stage in the early 70-is, it was clear that the conception and perception of musicals are never going to be the same again. Many of his songs became standards not only in the theatre history, but also as tops on the charts. Even though he's British, his influence on the shape of the modern musical theatre expanded over the West End boundaries long ago and has thus made an enormous impact on Broadway. Two of his shows ("Cats" and "The phantom of the opera") hold the record as two the longest running shows in the history of Broadway. He has also been the only composer to have three of his shows running at Broadway concurrently. Some of his awards include three Grammies, a Golden Globe, an Oscar and a bunch of Tony awards. But perhaps most of all, Lloyd Webber is responsible for bringing the musicals and the theatre appealing to the wide audiences, who in different circumstances would not consider seeing a musical. The secret of his success is probably the mixture of beautiful and catchy melodies, interesting subject matter (though some, like Starlight Express, are too thin) and grandiose staging.

Over the years many compilations of his work have emerged. In the late 80-is and early 90-is it was the "Encore" series and lately the one-disc collection called "Gold". The one in question here can be considered one of the best currently on the market. First, it includes a 3-disc selections from all of his shows, minus the latest one, i.e., "The Woman in White", which, considering the triviality of the score, is no great lost. The fourth disc covers some of his most known songs sung by the famous artists. Then, there is the fifth disc with previously unreleased material, most of which are the songs ALW wrote with Tim Rice for various artists during the 70-is. The disks are all neatly packed in a hardcover book that features 67 pages of pictures and text with information about each of ALW's shows. One of the other assets here is the perfect sound quality, since all of the tracks have been digitally remastered.

Here are my basic impressions and comments regarding the material on the discs:

* Disc #1 has the selections from "Jesus Christ Superstar", "Evita", "Cats" and "Song & Dance". The Superstar material mostly comes from the Concept Recording. Although the songs sound beautiful as always, their orchestration is a bit dated now. Only Steve Balsamo's "Gethsemane" from the 1996 revival cast has a modern rock sound. "Evita" comes with the material from all of the major recordings: London, Broadway and the movie productions, as well as the Concept album. No objections here; since this is one of ALW's most satisfying works, every song is just perfect, although Patti LuPone, the Broadway and overall the best Evita, is left with only a couple of lines. With the selections from "Cats", however, I have some doubts. A plus to the choice of the "Jellicle ball" impressive orchestral sequence from the 1998 movie version and "Mister Mistoffelees" from the 1981 London cast. One of the best known ALW's songs, "Memory", also comes from that album. It's a pretty version and Elaine Paige's rendition cannot be matched, but why include this when the definite version, featuring an 80-piece orchestra and Elaine Paige with much better interpretation, can be found in the same movie version. Thusly, one has to buy Elaine Paige's latest 2-disc compilation "Centre Stage: The very best of Elaine Paige" to get that one. And "Gus the theatre cat" is more a recital than a song, so there was not much point in including that. Marti Webb brings her vocal charm to the "Song & Dance" sequence, Sarah Brightman sings "Unexpected song" with her famous soprano, but as much as I like her version, Bernadette Peters, who was in this show on Broadway is strangely left out here.

* Disc # 2 starts with "Starlight Express". This was never one of my favorite ALW's shows; the plot is even lighter than in "Cats" and the 1984 original cast recording is terribly dated. Yet, here we have one terrific duet, "I am starlight" from the original together with three songs from the later revivals and it seems that fresh orchestrations were just the thing Starlight needed. My favorite remains a touchy ballad, "Next time you fall in love". "Requiem" is the most solemn of all ALW's compositions, written in 1985 to commemorate the death of his father. Placido Domingo's tenor rides together with the chorus all the way through the strong "Hosanna", only to be joined by Sarah Brightman in the final moments of this song. She then gives an echoing deliverance of "Pie Jesu". What can be said of ALW's next show, "The Phantom of the Opera"? A phenomenon in its own right, it's easy to see from the six numbers included here why this is one of the best and most beloved musicals of all time. The cast, the music, the story - everything is perfect. Although "Aspects of love" was never a popular hit, it does have some of the most beautiful love melodies ALW has ever written. "Love changes everything" sung by Michael Ball is probably one of the best tunes ever about love. The rest of the selected material here has a dreamy love flavor and the melodies find their way into your brain in the best Lloyd Webber way.

* ALW's first musical, "Joseph and the amazing Technicolor dreamcoat" was more successful in its revival form than the original from the 70-is. The three songs included here are sung by the show stars, Jason Donovan and Donny Osmond. Maria Friedman was not a lucky choice to play the narrator, as the track from the 1998 movie version shows. "By Jeeves" was ALW's only big flop when it came to the stage in the 70-is. The 1995 revival sounds much better though, full of funny numbers in the best manner of the musical comedy. "Travel hopefully" remains one of the show's highlights on this compilation. "Sunset Boulevard" comes next. "Sunset" remains for me one of Webber's best scores; lush and beautiful. I listen to the original cast recording with Patti LuPone all the time. However, here most of the songs are performed by Glenn Close. A big mistake. If you've ever listened the American premiere recording with her, you'll know what I am talking about. She may have a strong stage presence, but her vocal abilities are too limited, and her aggressive approach to the role lacks any subtlety. Therefore, the two big numbers from this show, "With one look" and "As if we never said goodbye" are ruined by the fact she can't sing. The same goes for the American Joe Gillis, who was played by Alan Campbell. Luckily, Patti LuPone and Kevin Anderson, the original Norma and Joe from the London production, make their brief entrance here with the "Perfect year"; enough to show how better they are. The funny thing is, on the jacket and inside of it, Glenn Close and Alan Campbell are credited as performers in this song as well. If this was a mistake on ALW's part, it was a good one. The next ALW's show, "Whistle down the wind" was never a critic's dear and yet the audiences rushed in to see it in London. The score brings back ALW to his rock and roll roots of the seventies and the story is quite interesting. But the selections here are not the happiest, since the cast recording boasts with much better songs. And finally, "The Beautiful Game". Again, we have one of those ALW's shows that is worth in its individual parts rather than as a whole. "Our kind of love" and "Let us love in peace" are two catchy ballads. The latter is a nice amalgam version not available elsewhere. The two other tracks here I could live without.

* Disc # 4 has the songs from all the above shows performed by different artists. The assembled tracks have their pros and cons. For example, we have some previously unreleased stuff, like Dame Kiri Te Kanawa's operettic rendition of "The heart is slow to learn", or a stunning and epic "A kiss is a terrible thing to waste" from "Whistle down the wind", performed by The Metal Philharmonic Orchestra. Then again, what was the point in including almost identical tracks as the ones on the previous disks? So we have Michael Ball again singing "Love changes everything" with only a bit different orchestration; Sarah Brightman comes out again with the same Phantom duets, but only with the different male singers. It would be much more appropriate to include tracks from the Toronto Cast of the Phantom, with Colm Wilkinson. Other pop deliverances (Tina Arena's "Whistle down the wind", Barbra Streisand's "As if we never said goodbye", Boyzone's "No matter what" and many more) were wisely chosen. Patti LuPone is again nowhere to be found and Petula Clark's "With one look" sounds too worn-out.

* The last disc is probably the one that will be of most interest to Lloyd Webber aficionados. It consists of entirely previously unreleased material ALW for the most part wrote for various artists during his early years, with Tim Rice. Some of these tunes, not successful as a singles, were later used in his shows. Thus "Down thru' summer" became "Buenos Aires"in Evita, "Try it and see", an unsuccessful attempt for the Eurovision was used for "King Herod's song" in "Superstar" and so on. Some of these songs are nicely made pop songs: "Make believe love", ALW's first recorded composition, for which he provided the lyrics; "Goodbye Seattle", sung by Paul Raven, who later became Gary Glitter; "Come back Richard, your country needs you", from a never made musical, sung here by Tim Rice, or Latin flavored "Magdalena", with Tony Christie singing. My all time favorite here is a song called "It's easy for you", sung by none other than Elvis Presley himself. Lloyd Webber and Rice sent him a demo recording that he accepted and recorded this live version a couple of weeks before he died. It's amazing to hear how his voice remained in the perfect shape. Also, there is a track of Andrew Lloyd Webber singing "Policle dogs and Jellicle cats" while plying the piano. His voice doesn't sound bad at all.

Taken as a whole, this compilation makes a perfect birthday or Christmas present to any fan of Andrew Lloyd Webber shows, or just anybody interested in some of the best tunes from the modern era of the musical theatre; despite the flaws I mentioned above. To the former, it may just be the final addition for the Andrew Lloyd Webber collection.

SUCH MAGICAL MUSIC OF THE NIGHT!.......2003-01-19

"Evita." "Sunset Blvd." "Starlight Express." "Jesus Christ Superstar." "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat." "Requiem." "Aspects of Love." The man who is the most recognized composer in the history of the musical theatre, the man who has won more Tonys than any other composer, the man who boasts the best-selling show of all time ("The Phantom of the
Opera") and the longest-running show of all time ("Cats"), the man whose homes are filled with three Grammys, five Oliviers, a Golden Globe, and Oscar and too many other honors and hosannas to mention, the man knighted in 1992 certainly doesn't need an introduction. Now Decca Broadway pays tribute to Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber with "Now and Forever," a spectacular 5-CD set compiled and produced by Sir Andy himself. It's cheaper than a
ticket to "The Producers" ... and more much exciting. This treasure trove contains highlights from all of Webber's shows, and a bonus disc of tunes sung by Betty Buckley, Barbara
Streisand, Jose Carreras, Boy George, Charlotte Church, Madonna, Tom Jones, Petula Clark, even Elvis! A must for lovers of theatre---and good music.

A Must Have for Sir Andrew fans.......2002-05-21

This five-CD collection of Andrew Lloyd Webber's career is fantastic. It leaves virtually no stone unturned. I have no doubt that diehard Webber fans will love this, especially for the 5th disc entitled "From the Vaults." This disc alone is worth the price as it contains tunes never before heard by the typical fan. Who knew Elvis did a Lloyd Webber tune?!? I didn't! Also the tune "Benedictine" which the composer wrote for his most recent marriage is not only pretty, but it has the same medley as "The Lady's Paying" from "Sunset Blvd." which I found highly enjoyable. Another great track is the composer himself singing a cut song from "Cats" entitled "Pollicle Dogs and Jellicle Cats" which has the same tune as "Jellicle Songs for Jellicle Cats," but to hear Sir Andrew sing is a blast...he sounds a lot like Al "Year of the Cat" Stewart.
The cuts from the musicals are great but are likely owned by ALW fans as they are on the original cast albums. And I'm glad that there were tunes included from the composers most recent efforts which have yet to make it beyond London (Whistle Down the Wind, Beautiful Game).
My only complaint is the inclusion of way too many tracks by Sarah Brightman. She must've received a great divorce settlement that included having tunes on any ALW collection until the end of time!! Her interpretations of some of the tunes were limp and uninspired. I would've much rather heard casts from around the world rather than yet another song by this disdainful soprano! How about Colm Wilkinson's version of "Music of the Night" from the original Canadian cast of "Phantom"? Or Michael Crawford's version of "Unexpected Song"? What? No Betty Buckley from "Sunset Blvd."? And of course there are songs you KNOW are going to be on the collection before you even listen to it as they have been on EVERY ALW collection for the past decade or so.
A great collection but too much Sarah Brightman!

Average customer rating:

A very impressive album and commanding statement of her individuality

Take Me Back
April Verch
Manufacturer: Rounder / Umgd
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Folk | Styles | Music

Traditional Folk | Folk | Styles | Music

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ASIN: B000C8STJE
Release Date: 2006-02-14

Tracks:

Take Me Back
Grand Slaque
All In A Night
Monarch
I Still Cry
Eclipse
Bride Of Jesus
Loggers In The Short Grass
Tennessee Wagoner
Cruel Moon
Seven Years
Tom, Brad & Alice
Wings To Fly
This Ottawa Valley

Amazon.com

In her artistic maturity, the champion Canadian fiddle prodigy has developed a mastery of musical mood swings. About half of Take Me Back comprises sprightly instrumentals--many of them traditional tunes from April Verch's native Ottawa Valley--which spotlight her extraordinary virtuosity (and nimble step dancing). Interspersed with these are vocal numbers of such brooding despair and bittersweet vulnerability that they break the listener's heart. The title track about the torture of lost love is one of three from the songbook of Julie Miller (one written with husband Buddy), while the luminous "Bride of Jesus" is one of three from Claire Lynch. On these, Verch turns the limits of her girlish voice--its lack of range, polish, and lung power--into interpretive strengths. On the instrumental numbers, she plainly has no limits. --Don McLeese

Customer Reviews:

A very impressive album and commanding statement of her individuality.......2006-02-26

Playing Time - 52:44 -- "Take Me Back" gives April Verch plenty room to strut her stuff as she journeys on both traditional and contemporary roads. Written by Julie Miller, the title cut allows April's captivating vocals to speak to removing some of the weight from her shoulders. By track two (the nearly 6-minute "Grand Slaque"), we hear an entire different side of April - that of lyrical fiddler in the finest French Canadian tradition with notes that bounce like ping pong balls. A step dancer herself, her fiddling is "reel-y" enjoyable. The set makes a contemporary turn with Claire Lynch and Missy Raines' "All in a Night" that incorporates drums and electric guitar. Another instrumental, "Monarch," is a jazz composition that wafts like a butterfly in a summer breeze. Thus, these four numbers alone show what we're in for on the entire album - many adventurous jaunts. Musically moving hither and thitherward, April demonstrates great versatility and skill. Some listeners, however, may find the set's flow a bit disjointed or lacking coherence due to the broad spectrum covered.

April Verch really likes to mix it up a bit. Her displays of both virtuoso musicianship and pleasant vocalizing are best for those with eclectic musical preferences. "I Still Cry" is a remarkably powerful slow love song. What large jumps we make to the aural experience of "Eclipse" (fiddle and piano bursting with pep), to "Bride of Jesus" (slow mournful singing), to "Loggers in the Short Grass" (another very danceable instrumental). Texas fiddling styles are captured in "Tennessee Wagoner," that shares breaks with guitar, piano, and even string bass. "Cruel Moon" is another slower song with dreamy electric guitar, and the set's transition to a more lilting instrumental "Seven Years" works well. "Tom, Brad & Alice" demonstrates old-time sensibilities as the fluid fiddle and frailing banjo speak to each other. "This Ottawa Valley," is a fun closer in ¾-time that pays tribute to her home and incorporates the sounds of a party going on at the recording session.

Produced by Dirk Powell and recorded in Louisiana, "Take Me Back" shows that April Verch is a musician of many talents and interests. Performing since a kid, April is the first woman to win both the Canadian Grand Masters Fiddle Championship and Canadian Open Fiddle Championship. She was only 14 (in 1992) when she recorded her first solo album. On the Rounder label, "Verchuosity" (2001) and "From Where I Stand" (2003) featured old-time, Brazilian, and contemporary music. "Take Me Back" has even greater eclecticism as some of Verch's previous work didn't include as much singing. Verch's extensive interests and abilities make this a very impressive album. It's a commanding statement of her individuality. Akin to the well-rounded and discriminating nature of Americana music, I'd have to say that April Verch's musical expedition is into new, refreshing and similar territory - let's just call it "Canadicana" for lack of a better term. (Joe Ross, Roseburg, OR.)

Average customer rating:

Take Me Back
Story of the Year
Manufacturer: Wea International
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

Punk Revival | Hardcore & Punk | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

Emo | Hardcore & Punk | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

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ASIN: B000F7CDJ4
Release Date: 2006-04-24

Tracks:

Take Me Back [Album Version]
Until the Day I Die
And the Hero Will Drown
Take Me Back

Album Description

Title track is backed by the live versions of 'Until The Day I Die', 'And The Hero Will Drown' and the music video for 'Take Me Back'. Maverick. 2006.

Album Details

St. Louis Quintet Story of the Year Will Release the Single 'take Me Back' as the Second Track to Be Taken from their Sophomore Maverick Album 'in the Wake of Determination'.

Average customer rating:

The essence of a great entertainer catpured.

At The Hollywood Bowl + Encore

Manufacturer: Collectables
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B00005Y8VW
Release Date: 2001-01-30

Tracks:

I'll Be Right Back
Alouette - Liberace, George Liberace, Los Angeles Philharmonic
Theme and Welcome Back
Gershwin Medley: Rhapsody in Blue/Embraceable You/Love Walked ...
Hillbilly Music
Hey Liberace
Intro
Liberace Boogie
Intro
Rosary
George and His Hot Fiddle
Sweet Sue, Just You
How About Another One?
Tea for Two
Sometimes I'm Ashamed to Take the Money
Alexander's Ragtime Band/Old Folks at Home
Taking Requests
Hollywood Bowl Concerto: Jalousie (Jealousy)/Star Dust/Walkin' My Baby
Closing Theme and Good Night

Album Description

2 CD set includes-At The Hollywood Bowl & Hollywood Bowl Encore. These two albums comprise a memorable 1954 performance including, for the first time, the entire concert, complete with Liberace's colorful monologues. Highlights include 'Beer Barrel Polka (Roll Out The Barrel)', 'Bumble Boogie' and 'Twelfth Street Rag'. 2002.

Customer Reviews:

The essence of a great entertainer catpured........2004-05-03

Liberace was a great showman and entertainer. This double CD is the best record of his classic act and demonstrates what Liberace was all about. Although recorded in 1954 the sound quality is fine and many of the elements from that period remained part of Liberace's act over more than 30 years. Interestingly - he was not yet using "I'll Be Seeing You" as his exit music. If there is anything you like about Liberace - get this CD.
NB Amazon (on 2/5/04) was only listing the tracks on the second CD.

Average customer rating:

Good coloratura work by Elizabeth Futral
At Last a Solo Recital on CD
An Interesting display

Great Operatic Arias

Manufacturer: Chandos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Songs by Fauré, Hahn and Head; Arias by Rossini and Handel

ASIN: B00009AQMF
Release Date: 2003-06-24

Tracks:

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

Customer Reviews:

Good coloratura work by Elizabeth Futral.......2007-05-27

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

At Last a Solo Recital on CD.......2005-03-19

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

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

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

An Interesting display.......2003-07-23

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

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

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

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

Tracks:

Leave That Liar Alone
Sweet Sunny South
I Love You A Thousand Way
Just Someone I Used To Know
Down To The Valley To Pray
Wave The Ocean, Wave The Sea
Your Long Journey
When The Roses Bloom In Dixieland
Unwed Fathers
Nobody's Fault But Mine
Papa's On The Housetop
Dream Of The Miner's Child
Christ Was Born In Bethlehem

Customer Reviews:

Brilliant as usual.......2007-02-15

Tim and Mollie are as good as ever with this cd. Good selection of songs, well performed, rates alongside their other albums. I had no doubts when I bought it but it met up to my expectations.

Take me back!.......2001-08-15

A very dear friend of mine played these songs for me eons ago, before I moved north. He even gave me a recording which I proceeded to wear out until it was pilfered by a college acquaintance. This music has haunted me ever since. How happy I was to see it had been re-released on CD! I love the music of Tim and Mollie O'Brien because of it's nostalgic effect. My favorite song is Take Me Back because, in truth, you can't go home again -- except in memories.

Take Back the Universe and Give Me Yesterday

Average customer rating:

Under the Tracks rocks
Excellent Indie Rock
This album shoulda been huge
Try something new!
One of the best CD's ever released!

Take Back the Universe and Give Me Yesterday
Creeper Lagoon
Manufacturer: Umvd Import
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

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On the Speakers

ASIN: B00005B6AN
Release Date: 2003-08-25

Tracks:

Chance Of A Lifetime
Wrecking Ball
Sunfair
She Loves Me Not
Up All Night
Naked Days
Under The Tracks
Dead Man Saloon
Hey Sister
Cellophane
Keep From Moving
Lover's Leap
Here We Are

Amazon.com

With the release of Take Back the Universe and Give Me Yesterday, San Francisco's indie-rock darlings Creeper Lagoon take a large directional leap into the mainstream alternative realm of full harmonies and slick production. For their second full-length album, the band worked with four different producers (Jerry Harrison, Dave Fridmann, Greg Wells, and Mark Trombino) to add lush melodic textures and pack synthesized swirls and beats around their high-soaring tracks. As a result, Take Back the Universe is an energized burst of radio-friendly rock built on tenderly emotional songs that yield completely to the soft pop spot in Creeper's musical heart. Opening tracks "Chance of a Lifetime" and "Wrecking Ball" set the Take Back tone, boosting wistful lyrics about easy living and stumbling relationships with sparkling rock endorphins. Throughout the disc, melancholy sentiments build into robust choruses as the songs trip through co-vocalists Ian Sefchick and Sharky Laguana's musings on love and lighthearted affairs. With the release of Take Back the Universe, Creeper Lagoon show they have the ability to embrace their sensitive sides with the sweetness of old indie bands like Sugar without hydroplaning on an overly spit-shined final product. --Jennifer Maerz

Customer Reviews:

Under the Tracks rocks.......2007-02-01

The song "Under the Tracks" is a standout perfect pop song, from O.C movie. It's a very happy song, it would be a good choice for a Hollywood cigarette theme, if cigarette ad were allowed in Brazil.

The other songs are forgettable, but are some OK songs, like the slower "Here We Are" and "Cellophane" and the upbeat "Wrecking Ball".

Some reference in Internet are assigning "Under the Tracks" to Coldplay. No chances.

Excellent Indie Rock.......2006-01-22

I've always had a couple random songs by these guys on my computer (Wrecking Ball, Under the Tracks) and loved them. I decided to finally pick this disc up recently and am very glad I did. If you are into Indie Rock that doesn't feel too Indie, then you will enjoy this disc. The songs are catchy, but don't ever cross the line into cheesy radio-type rock crap. The vocals are solid and the musicianship tight. If you're into some good chill stuff I would give this disc a spin.

This album shoulda been huge.......2004-06-30

On this album Creeper Lagoon unleashed a huge sound that more than fulfilled the promise of their debut. Big soaring guitars and catchy tunes that actually have something going on below the surface. I can't figure out why this wasn't all over the radio and didn't sell a million copies. Not that I wanted everybody running around in Creeper Lagoon shirts, but they deserved better. I know they're still around in a different form, but it just isn't like it was on this album. Ian (the ex-lead singers) new band On the Speakers is really good though, and if you miss what he added to the band check them out. They only have an ep out now, but it's got some great catchy stuff on it that's very reminiscent of Creeper. If you never heard this album, you need to get it. I've had it since it first came out and I still listen to it nearly every week, I just can't get sick of it.

Try something new!.......2004-02-20

An unusual more sophisticated slant on punk rock. It's amazing some of the bands that make it to main stream, while ones with actual talent, like Creeper Lagoon, go largely unnoticed. Don't miss out on this one.

One of the best CD's ever released!.......2003-09-26

1/3 Guided By Voices + 1/3 Bob Mould + 1/6 U2 + 1/6 Fig Dish = Creeper Lagoon. Plain and simple, this is one of the greatest CDs ever created. If I were stranded on an island and could somehow only get my hands on one CD, this would be a strong contender for that CD. Not only is it one of the best CDs ever, it also contains "Wrecking Ball", one of the greatest songs ever written. If you have any love of indie pop rock, then I can promise you that you will fall in love with this CD from the first listen, and you will always be able to put it in without getting bored. GREAT!

Guys and Dolls 50th-Anniversary Cast Recording

Average customer rating:

a brand-new cast and a brand-new look at a classic
Good but not great.
Better than seeing it live!
THE MOST FUN YOU WILL HAVE WITH THIS SHOW

Guys and Dolls 50th-Anniversary Cast Recording

Manufacturer: Drg
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

Guys and Dolls
Guys & Dolls (1976 Broadway Revival)
Guys and Dolls (1995 Studio Cast) (First Complete Recording)
Guys and Dolls (Original National Theatre Cast)
Little Mary Sunshine (1959 Original Off-Broadway Cast)

ASIN: B00005R5ZN
Release Date: 2001-11-06

Tracks:

Opening/Fugue For Tinhorns
Follow The Fold
The Oldest Established
I'll Know
A Bushel And A Peck
Adelaide's Lament
Guys And Dolls
If I Were A Bell
My Time Of Day
I've Never Been In Love Before
Take Back Your Mink
More I Cannot Wish You
The Cropshooter's Dance
Luck Be A Lady
Sue Me
Sit Down, You're Rockin' The Boat
Marry The Man Today
Finale/Guys And Dolls
Traveling Light (Unused)
Luck Be A Lady
Adelaide (Written For Film Version)
Sue Me
I'll Know
I've Never Been In Love Before
Sit Down, You're Rockin' The Boat

Customer Reviews:

a brand-new cast and a brand-new look at a classic.......2003-02-07

This all-new touring production of GUYS AND DOLLS has been touted the 50th Anniversary Production, and has been given the seal of approval by none other than Mrs Frank Loesser herself.

This cast is headlined by veteran Maurice Hines as Nathan Detroit, and features Brian Sutherland as Sky, Diane Sutherland as Sarah Browne and Alexandra Foucard as Miss Adelaide.

The cast is uniformably excellent; Hines has the right amount of attitude as Nathan, Brian Sutherland's beautiful voice is well-suited to Sky, real-life wife Diane is a thrillingly-realised Sarah, and Alexandra Foucard is a bewitching mix of both Vivian Blaine and Faith Prince.

This cast started out at a production by the Arena Stage in Washington before heading out for a touring season in an all-new production.

Highly-recommended, but make sure you also check out (if you haven't already) the 1950 Original Broadway Cast (on the Decca Broadway label) and the 1992 Broadway revival (on the RCA label).

Good but not great........2002-05-10

A multi-racial cast with very talented individuals...and a fitting tribute the 50th anniversary of the show. But...you can't possibly rate this higher than the original cast recording, or the 1992 Broadway revival. It does rank higher than the Jay Records studio cast and the 1976 revival. I'd invest in one of the previous recordings I've mentioned, before getting this one if you don't have the show on disc yet.

Better than seeing it live!.......2002-04-29

While this show was not the most electrifying that I have seen, the cd is definately worth it!

THE MOST FUN YOU WILL HAVE WITH THIS SHOW.......2001-11-11

The one word you can use to describe this cd is "FUN". I have listened to: the original cast, the all African American cast, the Broadway revival cast and the National Symphony Orchestra recordings of Guys and Dolls and I am telling you that this recording is the OVERALL best. The level of energy and power this recording has is amazing. It is an interracially mixed cast and every performer is a standout. If you listen to this show from beginning to end you will feel as if you are dancing the entire time because the score and the singers have so much momentum and "pazzazz". So yes...in a nutshell, get this cd and wait until you hear "Luck Be a Lady" and the Showstopper-"Sit Down You're Rockin the Boat"-WOW

Average customer rating:

Fine reissue of a classic set

Purcell: Theatre Music

Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

Cantatas for Solo Countertenor
Purcell: The Fairy Queen
Purcell: Songs & Airs / Argenta, North, Boothby, Nicholson, Toll
Monteverdi - Madrigali guerrieri ed amorosi / Concerto Köln, Jacobs
Lute Music, Vol. 2

ASIN: B0001Y4JHA
Release Date: 2004-10-12

Customer Reviews:

Fine reissue of a classic set.......2006-05-24

Think about the stupidest, most formulaic Hollywood movies you can think of: cheesy action pictures, fluffy, unfunny comedies, big but stiff epics. Now imagine that one of the greatest living composers was working in Hollywood, turning out astonishing, hauntingly beautiful and stirring musical scores for these throwaway movies. That's what you get with this set: music Henry Purcell composed for some two dozen often utterly forgettable plays (trust me--I've read a number of them!) Occasionally, when he teams up with a playwright worthy of his stature, such as John Dryden, Aphra Behn, or William Congreve, the results are even better, but for the most part you can enjoy the music here without knowing anything about the original plays.

This set originally appeared as separate LPs in the 70s and 80s, and has been long out of print. That's a pity, since Purcell spent a good deal of his short professional life in the theatre, either writing the incidental music contained on these CDs, or the music for his larger works, the semi-operas (King Arthur, The Fairy Queen, and the like). Almost all of these works are enjoyable gems; certainly, they represent a pinnacle of English 17th century music. Purcell had a genius for spinning musical gold out of the most leaden lyrics (check out his Odes and Welcome Songs on Hyperion if you don't believe me), and he does the same with the song texts in these plays.

Hogwood and the AAM offer clean, listenable performances, and the sound on these old analog discs has been cleaned up and brightened--although they were pretty good, even in the late 70s. As with most Hogwood, emotional extremes are kept to a minimum, so the "otherworldly" nature of late 17th century music, so often emphasised in more recent Baroque performances, doesn't come across here. It would be interesting to see what a group like The King's Consort would do with this music, but this set fills the major gap in the Purcell canon quite nicely.

My only beef with the reissue, as with many reissues, is that the liner notes are rather thin for a 6-cd set--the lyrics to the songs, for example, are especially missed. Still, it's a worthwhile set, and a must for fans of Purcell, English Baroque music, or anyone who just wants to experience a taste of the last days of the Restoration stage.

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