Sparkling

sparkling

Track Listings

1. Deep Down Inside

2. Sparkling

3. Behind Thoughts (I. Part One) - 2001 Remix

4. I Like

5. Every Door

6. Where Is God ?

7. Under Water

8. Before The Bullfight

9. It's Nice

10. Don't Know Much

11. Behind Thoughts (II. Part Two)

Editorial Reviews
Product Description
Some of you may remember a very good Swedish Progressive rock of the early Nineties that was called MASQUE. Its first album "Flesh That Understands" (1992) had left the memory of an excellent neo Progressive work, whereas the next one ("Ten Ways", 1994) was somewhat out of the beaten tracks, giving an even more exciting result. Since then, nothing else... Ten years later, POCKETFUL resumes exactly where MASQUE had stopped. Johan ENGSTROM (Guitars) and Jerker RELLMARK (Vocals and percussions) claim besides that "Sparkling" (2005) is a transition album, preceding the first real work of the band. This is shown by the cover version of "Where Is God ?" (Already featured in "Ten Ways") and the remix of "Behind Thoughts" (Already featured in the first opus). With the help of many guest musicians, the Scandinavian duet provides then a music that's immediately recognizable. This can be defined as a kind of Progressive pop-rock with strange consonances, sometimes dark and! tortured. Beside some surprising trumpet or ethnic percussion parts, the album unveils alarming guitar sound, sometimes reminding of KING CRIMSON. The cover version of David SYLVIAN's "Before The Bullfight" is also noteworthy. This needs an urgent discovery !

Sparkling,POCKETFUL,Musea,Rock

Sparkling

Average customer rating:

Wow.
Love this CD
Could it get any better?
Moulin rouge tried to fill up the GAP
ahahahahaha

Moulin Rouge 2

Manufacturer: Interscope Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Pop | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music

Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music

Pop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

Soundtracks | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

Classical | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Moulin Rouge
Moulin Rouge! (Two-Disc Collector's Edition)
Chicago
William Shakespeare's Romeo + Juliet: Music From The Motion Picture, Volume 2 (1996 Version)
William Shakespeare's Romeo + Juliet: Music From The Motion Picture (1996 Version) [Enhanced CD]

ASIN: B00005YW4Z
Release Date: 2002-02-26

Tracks:

Your Song
Sparkling Diamonds [Original Film Version]
One Day I'll Fly Away
The Pitch (Spectacular Spectacular) [Original Film Version]
Come What May [Original Film Version]
Like a Virgin [Original Film Version]
Meet Me in the Red Room [Original Film Version]
Your Song
The Show Must Go On [Original Film Version]
Ascension/Nature Boy (From the Death and...)
Bolero (Closing Credits) [Original Film Version]

Amazon.com

There are but two kinds of people in the world: Those captivated by Baz Luhrmann's heady, postmodernist musical romp Moulin Rouge--and everybody else. Oddly, the film's initial soundtrack release may have been the project's most traditional element, marketing a slate of pop-star contributions that gave listeners a sometimes-skewed perspective on its true musical charms. This follow-up corrects much of that oversight, offering original film versions of "Sparkling Diamonds" (the lavish, Nicole Kidman-performed medley of "Diamonds Are a Girl's Best Friend" and "Material Girl"), Jim Broadbent's and Richard Roxburgh's loopy take on "Like a Virgin," as well as the lively Offenbach "Can Can" parody "The Pitch (Spectacular Spectacular)." It also pays homage to the efforts of composer Craig Armstrong, whose quietly compelling underscore often binds the film's other far-flung musical influences together, be they stately orchestral readings of Elton John's "Your Song," a dramatic arrangement for Kidman and Ewan MacGregor's original film duet of "Come What May," or his dark, melodramatic take on Queen's "The Show Must Go On." The first Moulin Rouge soundtrack collection flaunted the film's bold, cross-genre ambitions; this one chronicles its nakedly emotional heart and soul. --Jerry McCulley

Album Details

Volume Two Includes the Memorable Renditions of 'like a Virgin' and 'your Song' and 'the Pitch (Spectacular Spectacular).' It also features a Mix of the Nicole Kidman Song 'one Day I'll Fly Away.'

Customer Reviews:

Wow........2007-01-15

I must say...I was very glad when they released Part Two of the Moulin Rouge soundtrack. Don't get me wrong...the first part was great and all, but it was nothing spectacular. I was specifically looking for certain songs from the movie, and I was completely disappointed when they were on there. The release of a second soundtrack was, in my opinion, an absolute necessecity.

The highlights of the album are:

-Your Song (Instrumental)
-Sparkling Diamonds (original film version)
-Come What May (original film version)
-The Show Must Go On (original film version)

In my opinion, "The Show Must Go On" is the best song on this album...it was just so perfect for the ending of the movie, and I fell in love with the song. I was so disappointed that it wasn't on the first soundtrack. This song is part of what makes the second soundtrack so amazing...the song is fierce!!

If you love the movie and are a fan of the first soundtrack, then definitely, get this one. Many of the songs are versions taken straight from the movie - I recommend this with 4.5 stars...you will NOT be disappointed!

Love this CD.......2006-07-04

I love everything about this movie. The music is amazing and the instrumental songs on this CD are perfect. The first CD seemed to be more for a bunch of teenyboppers that wanted to hear the worst song on the whole CD (Lady Marmalade). If only they could combine the good songs from the first CD into this one.

I gave this 5 stars even though it's about a 4.5 because they split the soundtrack over two seperate cds.

Could it get any better?.......2006-03-02

So i thought that the first instalment in these soundtracks was great (and it was) but the purchase of this sequel is a must if you want the full effect. With the original film versions of these songs, sung by the stars of the movie, you get the real feel that was the magnifisence of Moulin Rouge! Ewan McGregor is still by far the star, with his talent spilling over the dramatic lovesong 'Come What May' and 'Your Song', but Nicole's brilliant performance as Satine definatly takes front and center in 'One Day I'll Fly Away' and the film version of 'Sparkling Diamonds'...I have noticed that many complain about how the first soundtrack did not include the film version of this song...well you need this CD then...you will not be dissapointed. Other highlights include 'Like a Virgin' which is downright histarical, and the dark cover of 'the show must go on' which highlights the tragidy behind this tightly woven tale. THis is one must have soundtrack for your ever growing collection. A perfect companion to soundtrack number 1!

Moulin rouge tried to fill up the GAP.......2006-02-12

This contains many great tracks missing from the original soundtrack, including Like A Virgin, Spectacular Spectacular and The Show Must Go On. I thought the inclusion of two instrumental versions of Your Song might be a bit redundant, but upon listening to them I really enjoyed them and they are quite different from one another. OK, it's not the best soundtrack that could have been put out. But it's pretty darn close. One thing that many DEDICATED fans of the movie (including myself) said is that the original movie soundtrack lacked the actual original movie score. There are 10+ songs in "Moulin Rouge" and many didn't make the final cut.

Baz did the smart thing, taking the audiences favorite music, a few gems from the first soundtrack such as "Come What May" and "Sparkling Diamonds" as well as a few new songs, like "Like a Virgin", "The Show Must Go On" and "The Pitch (Spectacular Spectacular)" and releasing the Original Film versions, allowing for the amazing vocal performances of the actors, including the fabulous Jim Broadbent, to be shine through. Also, released is background music "Meet Me in the Red Room", played during Christian's arrival in the elephant, marking the only non-actor/orchestral piece within the context of the CD.

One thing that this soundtrack included that I didn't expect was several orchestral pieces that were mostly used as background music throughout the film. "Your Song - Instrumental" (#1) has personally become a favorite and is constantly being repeated in the CD player. Also included is the ending credits music "Bolero" and the final piece ... known as "Ascension/Nature Boy". Also included is a remix of "One Day I'll Fly Away", and like all MR remixes, is a little tough to listen to at first but after repeat listening, it becomes music to your ears.

To all you MR diehards out there: this is a must. Not like I could stop you anyways. To others who haven't been introduced to the spectacular (spectacular) world of Moulin Rouge, this is a great introductory piece, especially side-by-side with the first soundtrack.

ahahahahaha.......2006-02-01

Everything the other customers are saying is true: more music from the film, thankyouverymuch, not irritating pop conceits like the first. However, I would not have reviewed this album unless I found it absolutely necesary to point out that, in the climactic moments of track 5 "Come What May," Ewan MacGregor's voice is for some reason missing and replaced by a bizarre, operatic man's voice. It truly had me crying with laughter the first few times I heard it, and I wanted to share this wondrous discovery with the world.

The Ultimate Gilbert & Sullivan Collection

Average customer rating:

Well worth the price
Not Exactly "The Ultimate" Collection...
Where's the chicks?!?!
Not quite the ultimate....
Great Music - Questionable Selection

The Ultimate Gilbert & Sullivan Collection
Arthur Sullivan , Isidore Godfrey , Royston Nash , New Symphony Orchestra of London , Royal Philharmonic Orchestra , Colin Wright , Donald Adams , George Cook , Gillian Knight , Jean Hindmarsh , Jeffrey Skitch , John Ayldon , John Reed , Joyce Wright , Kenneth Sandford , Lyndsie Holland , Owen Brannigan , Pauline Wales , Peggy Ann Jones , Thomas Round , Valerie Masterson , and D'Oyly Carte Opera Company
Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music
Similar Items:

The Best of Gilbert & Sullivan
Gilbert & Sullivan - Highlights from The Mikado, The Pirates of Penzance, H.M.S. Pinafore, The Yeomen of the Guard, Trial of Jury
Topsy-Turvy - The Music of Gilbert & Sullivan: From the Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
Topsy-Turvy
The Best of Gilbert & Sullivan

ASIN: B000007OU0
Release Date: 1998-06-09

Tracks:

H.M.S. Pinafore: We Shall Sail The Ocean Blue
H.M.S. Pinafore: I'm Called Little Buttercup
H.M.S. Pinafore: My Galant Crew, Good Morning
H.M.S. Pinafore: I'm The Monarch Of The Sea
H.M.S. Pinafore: When I Was A Lad
H.M.S. Pinafore: Nevermind The Why And Wherefore
H.M.S. Pinafore: Kind Captain, I've Important Information
H.M.S. Pinafore: Carefully On Tip - Toe Stealing
H.M.S. Pinafore: For He Is An Englishman
The Pirates Of Penzance: I Am The Very Model Of A Modern Major - General
The Pirates Of Penzance: When A Felon's Not Engaged In His Employment
The Pirates Of Penzance: With Cat Like Tread
The Sorcerer: My Name Is John Wellinton Wells
The Gondoliers: Take A Pair Of Sparkling Eyes
Patience: If You're Anxious To Shine
The Mikado: If You Want To Know Who We Are
The Mikado: A Wand'ring Minstrel I
The Mikado: Behold The Lord High Executioner
The Mikado: As Someday It May Happen
The Mikado: Three Little Maids From School Are We
The Mikado: The Sun Whose Rays Are All Ablaze
The Mikado: Here's A How - De - Do!
The Mikado: From Ev'ry Kind Of Man Obedience I Expect
The Mikado: A More Humane Mikado Never Did In Japan Exist
The Mikado: The Criminal Cried As He Dropp'd Him Down
The Mikado: The Flowers That Bloom In The Spring, Tra La
The Mikado: On A Tree By A River A Little Tom Tit
The Mikado: There Is Beauty In The Bellow Of The Blast
The Mikado: For He's Gone And Married Yum-Yum

Customer Reviews:

Well worth the price.......2006-04-13

I love this CD. No, despite its name it is not the "ultimate" collection, as scarcely could be expected from a single CD. It is heavy on Mikado, as others have stated. It leaves out things I would have included and includes things I would have left out. But the performances are wonderful, traditional and all you expect from G&S. Considering the low price, it is well worth including in your G&S collection ... as PART of your collection. After the disappointment of the godawful Opera World video series (Don't buy it!) this CD is a joy and a relief.

Not Exactly "The Ultimate" Collection..........2004-12-23

It seems that a collection of Gilbert & Sullivan music that has the name "The Ultimate Collection" in its title would boast a wide range of music, but I found the selection disappointing. Half of the tracks are songs from The Mikado, and the other half is divided between five... yes, FIVE other operettas. This means that the representation from each operetta is awfully scant. I would have liked to see less Mikado and more of everything else, and perhaps some highlights from the more obscure operettas (Princess Ida and The Sorcerer, namely).

In addition, while most of the music is very well performed, some of the vocalists either go a bit overboard or, at the very opposite end, seem to lack expression. For example, this Nanki-Poo (in The Mikado) seems to be overly occupied with vibrato. Katisha's voice is annoying, and The Mikado's low voice often seems to lack feeling and humor. The other idiosyncracies, like the very frightening evil laughing during "A More Humane Mikado" and hissing during "Three Little Maids" really bug me.

Then again, I'm new to Gilbert and Sullivan, and was introduced to the music through the Topsy Turvy soundtrack, which has a noticeably less operatic style, and hardly includes "stage noise"... so perhaps all this is the norm. Do listen to the tracks for yourself, though, before you purchase the CD. Personally, I find that the Topsy Turvy soundtrack, while considerably less ecompassing, is much lighthearted and easier listening.

Where's the chicks?!?!.......2003-05-15

It wouldn't be G&S if not for the ladies - so where are they? How could they leave out Mabel's aria - or Josephine's!? The only female aria included on this disc comes from Mikado, which is the least exciting (if G&S could be un-exciting) of the three! Everything else on the recording is great, but I am still quite disappointed.

Not quite the ultimate...........2002-03-25

This is a great collection, but unfortunately it doesn't have songs from all the works of G&S. Most notably, there is nothing from the "Yeoman of the Guard". I still reccommed it however as John Reed is wonderful!!

Great Music - Questionable Selection.......2002-02-05

It's an ongoing challenge to find a recording of Gilbert and Sullivan that combines premium musicality and great theatrical performance. This recording is a true gem on both fronts. My only complaint is that for a "Best of" collection, this compilation is Mikado-heavy and scarcely touches on highlights from other masterpieces, particularly The Pirates of Penzance. This would be my favorite G&S CD of all time, of only it included tracks like "When the Foeman Bares his Steel," "Poor Wand'ring One," and "Dry the Glist'ning Tear," but then again, I guess there's no real consensus as to which are Gilbert and Sullivan's best works, and there are too many to fit on one CD.

Average customer rating:

brings back all sorts of things for me
If you see him perform, you will buy all his albums!
Have all his Cd's...!!!!
Catchy, fun, singable tunes
songs you can't stop singing

Down the Do-Re-Mi
Red Grammer
Manufacturer: BMG/Children's Group
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Traditional Folk | Folk | Styles | Music

General | Pop | Styles | Music

Folk Rock | Rock | Styles | Music

General | Children's Music | Styles | Music

General | Children's Music | Indie Music | Stores | Music

General | Pop | Indie Music | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Teaching Peace
Hello World!
BeBop Your Best
Can You Sound Just Like Me
Favorite Sing Along Songs

ASIN: B00000AG5X
Release Date: 1991-03-01

Tracks:

Down The Do-Re-Mi
Down By The Sea
ABC's Of You, The
Heading On Down To The Barn
Me And The Morning
Place In The Choir
Land Of The Silver Birch
Rattlin' Bog
Two Hands Four Hands
Grandfather's Clock
Musical Animal
Dreamtime Rendezvous
Brothers And Sisters

Album Description

A sparkling mix of original and traditional songs that overflow with the joy of music! Winner Parents Choice Gold Pulse Magazines "Best Childrens Recording 1991.

Customer Reviews:

brings back all sorts of things for me.......2005-02-16

i was going through an old box of photographs while looking for some to put in my graduation slideshow. then i went through my mother's desk looking for more and i find 'down the do re mi' and 'teaching peace' on a tape. it's probably been a decade since i last listened to this tape. i started crying listening to the grandfather's clock song, and even the silly songs brought back great memories. i remembered the lyrics to all the songs once they started playing again, which i suppose isn't too surprising because i probably drove my parent's crazy when i'd listen to this over and over for years. this is the music that all kids should have a chance to listen to and sing along with, not the worthless pop crap that is the only thing most of them are exposed to now.

If you see him perform, you will buy all his albums!.......2004-05-04

Although I used "Teaching Peace" in my preschool classroom, it wasn't until I saw/heard Red Grammer perform at a teacher's convention that I became a fan. Or should I say, groupie? He not only performs, he entertains. And better still - he offers a variety of ways to use his music with groups of children. His voice is wonderful (John Denver-ish, which is meant as a great compliment!)and many songs have just the right amount of silly to keep children of all ages entertained. My class loves the scat-like ending of Down the Do-Re-Mi that they can sing along to as much as they love acting out Down By the Sea. There are poetically beautiful songs (Land of the Silver Birch),camp classics (Rattlin'Bog), and motivational songs (Two hands, four hands). Wonderful.

Have all his Cd's...!!!!.......2004-03-27

Very incredible man...!!! Freefalling and Tablet Of Ahmad
are tearjerkers!!!!!

This man is definately for adults also!!!

Top notch inspirational Michael Crawford-ish tenor--

Gives me Goosebumps---

Tablet Of Ahmad - you MUST get it!!! ITS RED IN RARE FORM!!
YOU WILL NOT BE SORRY....

Catchy, fun, singable tunes.......2003-01-22

My daughter's eyes (she's 4 months) light up as the first few notes of this CD start. They are great and catchy songs that are easy to sing and follow, with fun stories. One of our favorites!

songs you can't stop singing.......2001-05-30

For years I've been hearing about Red Grammar, but only recently have I listened to his songs. My sister-in-law introduced my three-year-old son to his music, and it was an instant hit. Down the Do Re Mi is terrific fun. We love every song. My son's favorite is "The Rattlin' Bog." Mine is "Down By the Sea." Every song is catchy and fun to sing along with. Each one captures the fun of being a child. We can't stop singing these songs, or listening.

Average customer rating:

The best? I think not.
can't understand the words

The Best of Gilbert & Sullivan

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music

General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music

General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

4-for-3 Broadway & Vocalists | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music

4-for-3 Classical | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music

4-for-3 Soundtracks | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music

4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music

Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music

Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music

Musicals | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

The Ultimate Gilbert & Sullivan Collection
Gilbert & Sullivan - Highlights from The Mikado, The Pirates of Penzance, H.M.S. Pinafore, The Yeomen of the Guard, Trial of Jury
The Gilbert and Sullivan Overtures
The Complete Annotated Gilbert & Sullivan
Topsy-Turvy - The Music of Gilbert & Sullivan: From the Original Motion Picture Soundtrack

ASIN: B00004W5AD
Release Date: 2000-08-08

Tracks:

H.M.S. Pinafore: Ov - Orch Of The D'Oyly Carte Opr/John Owen Edwards
H.M.S. Pinafore: We Sail The Ocean Blue - Tom McVay/Gordon Sandison/Yvonne Barclay
H.M.S. Pinafore: Never Mind The Why And Wherefore - Tom McVay/Gordon Sandison/Yvonne Barclay
The Yeomen Of The Guard: When Maiden Loves She Sits And Sighs - Janine Roebuck
The Yeomen Of The Guard: Here's A Man Of Jollity - Chor Of The D'Oyly Carte Opr
Iolanthe: Tripping Hither, Tripping Thither - Yvonne Patrick/Madeliene Mitchell/Chor Of The D'Oyly Carte Opr
Iolanthe: The Law Is The True Embodiment - Richard Suart/Chor Of The D'Oyly Carte Opr
Iolanthe: When I Went To The Bar - Richard Suart
Iolanthe: Strephon's A Member Of Parliament! - Chor Of The D'Oyly Carte Opr
Iolanthe: When Britain Really Rul'd The Waves - Lawrence Richard/Chor Of The D'Oyly Carte Opr
Iolanthe: Finale Act Two: Soon As We May - Chor Of The D'Oyly Carte Opr
The Pirates Of Penzance: Ov - Orch Of The D'Oyly Carte Opr/John Pryce-Jones
The Pirates Of Penzance: Poor Wand'ring One - Marilyn Hill Smith/Chor Of The D'Oyly Carte Opr
The Pirates Of Penzance: I Am The Very Model - Eric Robertson/Chor Of The D'Oyly Carte Opr
The Pirates Of Penzance: When The Foeman Bares His Steel - Simon Masterton Smith/Marilyn Hill Smith/Patricia Cameron/Eric Robertson/Chor Of The D'Oyly Carte...
The Pirates Of Penzance: With Cat-Like Tread - Gareth Jones/Chor Of The D'Oyly Carte Opr
The Mikado: If You Want To Know Who We Are - Chor Of The D'Oyly Carte Opr
The Mikado: The Flowers That Bloom In The Spring - Bonaventura Bottone/Eric Roberts/Deborah Rees/Thora Ker/Malcom Rivers
The Mikado: On A Tree By A River - Eric Roberts
Patience: The Soldiers Of Our Queen - Donald Maxwell/Chor Of The D'Oyly Carte Opr
Patience: If You Want A Receipt For That Popular Mystery - Donald Maxwell/Chor Of The D'Oyly Carte Opr
Patience: Am I Alone And Unobserved - Simon Butteriss
Patience: If You're Anxious For To Shine - Simon Butteriss
The Gondoliers: We're Called Gondolieri - David Fieldsend/Alan Oke
The Gondoliers: From The Sunny Spanish Shore - Richard Suart/Jill Pert/Elizabeth Woollett/Philip Casey
The Gondoliers: For Ev'ry One Who Feels Inclined - David Fieldsend/Alan Oke/Chor Of The D'Oyly Carte Opr
The Gondoliers: Take A Pair Of Sparkling Eyes - David Fieldsend
The Gondoliers: Dance A Cachucha - Chor Of The D'Oyly Carte Opr

Customer Reviews:

The best? I think not........2004-01-11

This disc includes some songs that, while I like them, are not what people might consider the "best" of G&S. Of course, anything by G&S is good, it's still not the "best of the best."

There has got to be something that better represents the G&S canon.

can't understand the words.......2004-01-08

Don't know about those other reviewers, but I just can't make out very much of the lyrics. Maybe those folk have better CD players or better hearing, but it's pretty much a blur to me. I strongly recommend "The Ultimate Gilbert and Sullivan" instead.

Average customer rating:

Talent
Wonderful

Half a Million Miles
Kennedys
Manufacturer: Appleseed Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

Jangle Pop | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Styles | Music

General | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music

General | Folk | Styles | Music

Traditional Folk | Folk | Styles | Music

Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music

Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music

Folk Rock | Rock | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

Power Pop | Rock | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Songs of the Open Road
Stand
Evolver
Angel Fire
My Better Self

ASIN: B000A0GOZ0
Release Date: 2005-08-23

Tracks:

Half a Million Miles
Namaste
Midnight Ghost
Live
Listen
Nuah
9th Street Billy
Everything's on Fire
How Will I Ever Be Simple Again?
Chimes of Freedom
Time Ain't Long
Here and Now

Album Description

Even after ten years, over a thousand gigs and 500,000 miles of touring as a married, music-making couple, singer-guitarists Pete and Maura Kennedy haven't killed each other. The duo savors each instant in life and in each other's company, and it shows in their music. The Kennedys have been charming audiences and critics for a decade with their exuberant mixture of folk, rock, country, pop and secular gospel, a philosophical depth in their lyrics, and joyful, kinetic performances and recordings.

"Half a Million Miles," The Kennedys' 8th CD, presents ten sparkling roots-pop originals, plus two complementary covers, infused with their "live in the moment" outlook. The Kennedys' constant touring, coupled with the influence of such writers as Joseph Campbell, Aldous Huxley, and Eckhart Tolle, has taught them about "the eternal now." With eyes wide open, they discover wisdom and musical inspiration everywhere. A mysterious greeting at their local East Village sushi bar is transformed into the buoyant "Namaste" (translation: "The divine in me recognizes the divine in you"). A neighborhood merchant becomes "9th Street Billy, the guru of East Side soul" in a lilting bossa nova. "Live" and "Listen" are respectively forceful and delicate reminders to stop and smell the roses.

While the original songs on "Half a Million Miles" all bear references to the Buddhist outlook of openness and enlightenment, Pete calls the two cover versions - Richard Thompson's wrenching "How Will I Ever Be Simple Again?" and Bob Dylan's "Chimes of Freedom" - "political, peacenik songs," that pay attention to current events.

Maura's lead vocals are sweet and often girlishly playful while displaying a plaintive edge of experience, and Pete's harmonies add a second coating of melodic delight. And the guitars! While Maura provides rhythm guitar grooves, Pete lays down layers of chiming acoustic and 12-string leads (and all other instruments on the CD).

Ear candy and brain food are an irresistible combination on "Half a Million Miles," where The Everly Brothers meet Emerson, The Byrds meets Buddha, and everyone gets along just fine. Join The Kennedys in their celebration of life on this CD, in their next half million miles of performances and airing the music they love on their "Dharma Café" show on Sirius Satellite Radio.

Customer Reviews:

Talent.......2006-11-18

Totally enjoyable vibrant music. Saw them in a small venue tonight (25 people) and am hooked. Talented and personable. Join in.

Wonderful.......2006-06-17

Thanks to WFUV in NY, I went to their concert at the Rubin Museum and discovered a duo with a beautiful sound. Their folk music is fused with all sorts of cultural traditions and an all-inclusive brand of spirituality. For me, Maura's voice and Pete's guitar are as good as any I can recall, and their energy is infectious.

Average customer rating:

Eden Regained

Gambling Eden
Rani Arbo & Daisy Mayhem
Manufacturer: Signature Sounds
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

Contemporary Blues | Blues | Styles | Music

General | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music

General | Folk | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

General | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music

Contemporary | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Cocktail Swing
Henry Street
Bottleneck Dreams
Big Old Life
Migrations

ASIN: B00009IB26
Release Date: 2003-06-10

Tracks:

Stewball
Finland
Turtle Dove
Closer
Oh Death
Big Black Bird
Sparrow
Eve
The Farmer Is The Man
Red Rocking Chair
Road to Heaven
Farewell To Saint Dolores

Customer Reviews:

Eden Regained.......2004-07-10

After Salamander Crossing's breakup, Rani Arbo and her band Daisy Mayhem went their own way. "Gambling Eden" takes a different approach than 2001's "Cocktail Swing." Whereas the previous disc focused on 20's & 30's jazz, "Gambling Eden" is more in the folk-rock-country territory of a band like Nickel Creek. One of the first records I bought as a boy in the early 60's was "Stewball" by Lonnie Donnegan. At Arbo's hands the track pulses with energy with Arbo's violin giving it a traditional feel, particularly compared with Donnegan's earlier rockabilly take, "Way out in California where Stewball was born, all the jockeys in the country say he blew there in a storm." This set contains some fine originals such as the slow melodic "Finland," "Is it raining in Finland? I want to know; It's covered up with snow & I want to see you if you're ever coming home." "Turtle Dove" is a traditional tune traced to 1835, given a great energetic rendition that will be embraced by "O Brother" enthusiasts. John McGann & Chris Moore's "Closer" is such a lovely haunting slow song polished to a shine by the Mayhem band, "The answer always came back in a tangle like vines climbing up the side of a hollow tree, Now I think that looking up & wondering is just the place I really want to be." "O Death" that appeared on the "O Brother" soundtrack by Ralph Stanley is given a haunting arrangement and impassioned Arbo vocal. "Sparrow" is a country-swing original that brings to mind some of Toni Price's great recordings. The CD takes its title from "Eve" that traces the fall in the garden, "Paradise is only what you feel, everything else is so real, Who told us we had this power? I gambled Eden in an hour." "The Farmer Is the Man" is another familiar tune given another sterling rendition. My favorite track is the uproariously energetic "Road to Heaven," "I'm gonna find my own road to heaven, I'm gonna find me mine." The CD concludes with Dave Carter's "Farewell to Saint Dolores," a turgid lament. Arbo may have felt that she was "Gambling Eden" with the new direction she's taken on this disc, but the level of success here encountered might better be termed "Eden Regained." Enjoy!

Average customer rating:

What can you do when your love's not true?
another great Esquivel starter CD

Music from a Sparkling Planet
Esquivel
Manufacturer: Bar/None Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Jazz | Styles | Music

Lounge | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music

Retro Space Age | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music

Easy Listening | Pop | Indie Music | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Space-Age Bachelor Pad Music
More of Other Worlds, Other Sounds
Cabaret Manana
Loungecore
Latin-Esque

ASIN: B0000048E7
Release Date: 1995-05-23

Tracks:

Cachita
Cherokee
Third Man Theme
La Bikina
You Belong To My Heart
La Paloma
Cachito
Granada
Question Mark (What Can You Do)
My Blue Heaven
All Of Me
Poinciana
Flower Girl Of Bordeaux
Boulevard Of Broken Dreams

Amazon.com

Esquivel has been such a hit with lounge revivalists that a sequel to Space Age Bachelor Pad Music was undeniable. Music From a Sparkling Planet inevitably carries a heavy load of kitsch, and rightly so. By any fair standard, Juan Garcia Esquivel's desperately spry arrangements (complete with "zoom zoom" vocals, blaring brass, and truly mind-bending steel guitar) were a product of their time. You almost feel like you should be eating a TV dinner off a TV tray while watching My Favorite Martian to fully enjoy this stuff. But you'll never hear a sprightlier version of "Boulevard of Broken Dreams." --Steven Stolder

Customer Reviews:

What can you do when your love's not true?.......2006-01-04

One of the best things to come out of the lounge music revival of the 1990s was the rediscovery of Esquivel. Esquivel released several albums of instrumental pop music back in the '50s and '60s, but unlike many of his contemporaries in the field of instrumental pop, his music is actually interesting. He experimented with oddball instrumentation and weird stereo effects, which make his records very fun to listen to (not to mention that he was an excellent arranger). This CD was the second compilation album of his material. It's not quite as good as the first one (Space Age Bachelor Pad Music), but it's still very good. The material is a bit weaker the second time around, but it still features some great tracks, like "Granada" and "Question Mark". The lounge music revival may be over, but Esquivel is still worth listening to. It's nice that he got to experience the renewed interest in his work before he died.

another great Esquivel starter CD.......2002-01-18

Bar-None really did a wonderful job on the booklet for this release. The tune selection is really fine as well. This is a great way to introduce yourself to Esquivel's world. But be prepared to want MORE once you become ensnared by the music!

Average customer rating:

Oh, Kitten...it's a Must Have
Almost , Nearly, perfect
Much more than Kitten On the Keys
Zany yet poetic!
Brilliant!

Confrey: Piano Music

Manufacturer: Naxos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

4-for-3 Classical | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music

4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music

$6.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

Instrumental | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Zez Confrey Piano Rolls and Scores
Keyboard Wizards Of The Gershwin Era, Vol.4
James Scott: The Complete Works 1903-1922
Complete Stark Rags of Joseph F. Lamb
The Original James P. Johnson 1942-1945

ASIN: B00000HZOE
Release Date: 1999-01-19

Tracks:

Kitten On The Keys
Dizzy Fingers
Meandering
African Suite: I. High Hattin'
African Suite: II. Kinda Careless
African Suite: III. Mississippi Shivers
Jay Walk
Sparkling Waters
Wise Cracker Suite: I. Yokel Opus
Wise Cracker Suite: II. Mighty Lackawanna
Wise Cracker Suite: III. The Sheriff's Lament
Amazonia
Blue Tornado
Three Little Oddities: I. Impromptu
Three Little Oddities: II. Romanza
Three Little Oddities: III. Novelette
Coaxing The Piano
Stumbling (Paraphrase)
Moods Of A New Yorker: I. At Dusk
Moods Of A New Yorker: II. Movie Ballet
Moods Of A New Yorker: III. Relaxation
Moods Of A New Yorker: IV. After Theatre (Tango)
Rhythm Venture
Fourth Dimension

Amazon.com

Zez Confrey (1895-1971) may not be a household name, but his 1921 masterpiece "Kitten on the Keys" certainly is. The Illinois-born composer studied the classics growing up, but somehow the temptation of Vaudeville sneaked its way into his compositions and he found success writing catchy ragtime miniatures with goofy names ("Wise Cracker Suite," "Dizzy Fingers," "Blue Tornado"). Republic of Georgia pianist Eteri Andjaparidze performs 24 of Confrey's works with technical perfection and plenty of spirit--two requirements for these compositions--but sounds a tad robotic on some numbers. Between "Kitten" and 1959's "Fourth Dimension," Confrey explored blues, rags, Latin rhythms, and--of course--jazz, but the real highlight here is a slow number, the four-movement Moods of a New Yorker. In sum, this a great tribute featuring great music, perfect for fans of George Gershwin, Ferde Grofé, Jelly Roll Morton, and Joseph Lamb. --Jason Verlinde

Customer Reviews:

Oh, Kitten...it's a Must Have.......2004-12-29

Hats off to Naxos for releasing this absolutely perfect tribute to Zez Confrey - it was high time, someone had to do it, and Naxos has done Confrey real justice. One would expect caricature of his work, rather than the respectful, honest, accurate renditions of his work featured on this album.

I discovered my love for Confrey thanks to the Aeolian Hall Birth of Rhapsody in Blue album (another of my reviews covers that great one), which featured a small selection of his compositions. The distinct, unique sound of his work snagged me immediately, and so I was thrilled to come upon this little Naxos treat.

Every piece on the album is sheer delight, but several do stand out from the rest. "Kitten on the Keys" (Confrey's most famous composition, here done full justice), "Meandering" (which just glides and lilts along like feathers on a breeze), "Kinda Careless" (a sensuous, seductive little number), "Yokel Opus" (a snappy little foxtrot), "Coaxing the Piano" (which seems almost an homage to 'Twelfth Street Rag', in a skewed way), "Movie Ballet" (which sounds exactly like its title would suggest), and "Rhythm Venture" (so gracefully syncopated, it's practically a marvel).

Any and all Confrey and jazz fans should consider this album as required listening, and well worth owning. The price alone is reason enough - you cannot go wrong with Naxos' rates. But even if it were four times the price, it would still be a bargain.

Almost , Nearly, perfect.......2003-10-25

Wonderful selection of pieces, most of these are lesser-known Confrey and tend to represent his more "Serious" music. Perhaps because of that the pianist (a superb performer) tends to emphasize their concert qualities over their popular music aspects. This is only a tiny complaint. There's a lot of excellect music here, and at Naxos' low price it's a bargan.

Much more than Kitten On the Keys.......2002-05-16

If you thought an album of Zez Confrey music would be track after track like Dizzy Fingers or Kitten On the Keys, you are in a for a pleasant surprise with this superb CD.

The performances of the said party pieces are fast, furious and fun, but there are also some great blues renditions, and some lyrical, reflective pieces.

I would have preferred if the CD had included a few more of the well-known pieces like My Pet, Poor Buttermilk and You Tell 'Em, Ivories, but the many pieces I had never heard of are interesting, and are played beautifully.

Zany yet poetic!.......2000-09-04

Once again, in its "American Classics" series, Naxos has pulled a pleasant surprise rabbit out of the hat. Zez Confrey must be a new name for virtually everyone, unless they are well past my own age, and I don't go back quite that far. The name was certainly new for me, but a few of the pieces on this disc brought memories flooding back, most likely because my parents once had them coupled on an ancient 78 shellac.

Confrey (1895 - 1971) had been relegated pretty much to the dustbin of history before this release. But he did have his days in the sun between the two world wars. Undoubtedly his brightest moment was when he shared billing with George Gershwin and Paul Whiteman on the occasion of the premiere for Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue, where Confrey had the stage in the first half of the concert and Gershwin in the second. For the most part, after that February, 1924 "An Experiment in Modern Music" concert of Whiteman's, the paths of Gershwin and Confrey began to diverge; Gershwin was, to put it simply, an overnight success.

All of the music on this album is fun, and virtually all of it demands virtuosic pianistic ability, which Confrey must certainly have possessed. Listening to it is like taking a trip down memory lane, back to the popular music in the first third of the previous century. There are pieces which have clear roots in ragtime, embellished upon and brought forward by a few decades, and at least a selection or two which sound very much like Gershwin preludes in their "bluesy" feel. It's also clear that Confrey was not unaware of the classical music of the period, because a few of the pieces capture the idioms of the piano music of Rachmaninoff and Ravel of that period (although they soon veer off into "Confrey territory"). If you listen carefully, you'll even hear a passing reference or two to Chopin. But, like the Rachmaninoff and Ravel musical allusions, these too are in fact just "passing references."

But most of the album is pure Confrey-style pianistic wizardry: Fleet fingers, crossing hands, syncopations and rhythmic "irregularities" with the colorfully descriptive titles of "Meandering", "Coaxing the Piano" and "Stumbling." And his two most famous pieces (which, probably, many of us have never heard), "Kitten on the Keys" and "Dizzy Fingers." (In fact, it was "Dizzy Fingers" and "Stumbling" which must have been the coupling on that ancient 78, because they were immediately recognizable.)

Eteri Andjaparidze is an excellent technician in this work, which can be very demanding of technique if it is to be pulled off properly. By and large, she does very well by it. In particular, she succeeds in capturing the passing allusions to the classical piano music of the time. If I had my druthers, I might ask for a little more panache, or insouciance, if you like, in the Confrey specialities noted in the previous paragraph. But who can quibble, especially at the Naxos price, without appearing to be a piker?

Neat stuff for a refreshing change of pace, with an opportunity to hear an hour's worth of music by someone who had been ignored for too long. That's a "get it" recommendation!

Bob Zeidler

Brilliant!.......2000-03-22

I have no idea what Jason Verlinde meant by saying that Eteri Andjaparidze sounds "a tad robotic" on certain pieces on her new Zez Confrey album; indeed, the Republic of Georgia pianist sounds absolutely marvelously free in her interpretations. I cannot hear anything "robotic" at all in her playing. She approaches the intricate syncopations of Confrey's music with dazzling style. She is technically proficient enough to take Confrey's tempi at a furious pace, when necessary, in pieces such as "Kitten on the Keys" and "Dizzy Fingers," and to create a sustained, beautiful flow to the music in such "impressionistic" pieces as "Sparkling Waters" and "Mighty Lackawana." The selections which will remind the listener of Art Deco New York in the 1920's and 1930's, are taken at exactly the right tempo, and Ms. Andjaparidze syncopates the rhythms in a sparkling manner. I was utterly amazed at how a pianist, trained in the Republic of Georgia, could evoke the rhythms and style of American music of this type. But she does! In addition, the piano has been recorded beautifully, with sparkling tone at the treble end, and a rich, full bass. I purchased this CD a few hours after reading Frank Behrens' review. It is a wonderful addition to my collection of American music. I urge you to hear this excellent release. Naxos is to be commended for making it available.

Here's a Howdy Do: A Gilbert & Sullivan Festival

Average customer rating:

Gilbert and Sullivan......In Tears
An Eye-Opener!
The best of King's Singers meets the best of G&S
looks pretty good
Amazing work from the worlds' foremost a cappella group.

Here's a Howdy Do: A Gilbert & Sullivan Festival
Arthur Sullivan , Christopher Laurence , Wild Ray Snurck , Robert [ , and The Kng's Singers
Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music

Traditional Vocal Pop | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music

General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music

A Cappella | Folk | Styles | Music

Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music

Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music

Musicals | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

The King's Singers Original Debut Recording
Madrigal History Tour
Kids' Stuff
A Little Chrismas Music: Kiri Te Kanawa; The King's Singers
Sacred Bridges

ASIN: B000003FLI
Release Date: 1993-09-14

Tracks:

HMS Pinafore: A British Tar
The Mikado: The Sun Whose Rays
The Gondoliers: Take A Pair Of Sparkling Eyes
Ruddigore: The Ghosts' High-Noon
The Pirates Of Penzance: Ah, Leave Me Not
The Mikado: A Wand'ring Minstrel I
The Pirates Of Penzance: The Pirate King
The Mikado: Tit Willow
The Pirates Of Penzance: With Cat-Like Tread
The Mikado: Brightly Dawns Our Wedding Day
The Mikado: A More Humane Mikado
The Gondoliers: Rising Early In The Morning
Gilbert & Sullivan Medley
Patter Matter
The Mikado: Here's A Howdy Do

Customer Reviews:

Gilbert and Sullivan......In Tears.......2001-03-14

Once again we discover that amatures should not attempt to emulate what the classical artist "would" have wanted. This poor attempt at a "comical" view of the music of G&S only reiterates to this listener.....Don't Go There... I'm sorry I did and wish that the King's Singers......had never said..."Howdy Do", to me. Though I will keep searching for a true and respectful rendition of H.M.S. Fortunately, this version, makes a great coffee cup coaster......

An Eye-Opener!.......2000-06-23

This delightful album is the kind of work which will make the listener search for MORE by the artists and the composers. If you are not a fan of The Kings Singers, you will become one. If you don't know much Gilbert & Sullivan, you will want to learn! Highest praise.

The best of King's Singers meets the best of G&S.......1999-09-23

This one is a natural for me. The King's Singers are my favorite group, and Gilbert & Sullivan are my favorite shows. The King's Singers are the perfect group for G&S music, too, with their unique blend of serious musical study and just plain fun. Their medly and patter trio are two wonderfully crafted examples of G&S music, and the rest of the songs are very skillfully presented. I only wish this wonderful group would do another Gilbert & Sullivan recording.

looks pretty good.......1999-09-20

this looks pretty good, but i don't know because i haven't bought it ye

Amazing work from the worlds' foremost a cappella group........1999-08-29

As a lover of both G&S and the King's Singers, I was positively tickled by this wonderful recording. The King's Singers have managed to breath new life into songs that have sunken into obscurity, or worse, cliche'. "Pirate King", "Tit Willow", and "Here's a How-dee-Doo" are especially delightful. The tonal range of this group never fails to amaze me. From the sweetness of David Hurley on top to the astounding Stephen Connelly thundering forth as the Mikado, they are a joy to listen to.

Average customer rating:

Music for the baby!
Unlistenable
THIS is music . . .
A Surefire Method of Loosing the Blues

Gilbert & Sullivan Weekend

Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music

4-for-3 Classical | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music

4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music
ASIN: B0000041X3
Release Date: 1990-10-12

Tracks:

H.M.S Pinafore: Now Give Three Cheers...I Am The Monarch Of the Sea...When I Was A Lad
H.M.S Pinafore: I'm Called Little Buttercup
H.M.S Pinafore: Never Mind The Why And Wherefore
The Mikado: A Wand'ring Minstrel I
The Mikado: Three Little Maids From School Are We
The Mikado: As Someday It May Happen
The Mikado: The Flowers That Bloom In The Spring
The Mikado: On A Tree By A River A Little Tom-Tit
The Yeomen Of The Guard: When Our Gallant Norman Foes
The Yeomen Of The Guard: I Have A Song To Sing, O!
The Pirates Of Penzance: I Am The Very Model Of A Modern Major-General
The Pirates Of Penzance: When The Foeman Bares His Steel
The Pirates Of Penzance: Poor Wand'ring One
The Pirates Of Penzance: When A Felon's Not Engaged In His Employment
Iolanthe: Loudly Let The Trumpet Bray
Iolanthe: If You Go In You're Sure To Win
The Gondoliers: We're Called Gondolieri
The Gondoliers: In Eenterprise Of Maritial Kind
The Gondoliers: Take A Pair Of Sparkling Eyes
The Gondoliers: Dance A Cachucha, Fandango, Bolero

Customer Reviews:

Music for the baby!.......2006-10-14

I am the caregiver for my newborn grandson who is VERY VERY fussy. There are all kinds of CDs with soothing music for the babies, BUT I happened to hear that opera was a great listen for the little ears and this one is the best. It has high voices and very low bass voices lots of BOOMs and arias. When I first put it on for him, (in the middle of a loud cry), he quieted down almost as soon as the first stanza was over. He now smiles and waves his little arms and legs around when I turn it on. He Listens and loves this CD, and so do I! The words are hard to understand but the sounds are marvelous. If you know of any mother/father who is wanting music for a small baby/child, tell them about Gilbert and Sullivan (and they will enjoy it, too).

Unlistenable.......2005-11-11

The voices are wonderful, but the recording is so faulty that only the two tracks from Iolanthe sound at all okay. At first I thought it was my equipment, then realized that the CD was at fault. And I bought one for myself and one for a friend! I adore Gilbert & Sullivan and D'Oyly Carte is the best, but this particular CD shouldn't be offered for sale.

THIS is music . . ........2005-07-21

. . . not rap, not rock, not pop. Light opera! I love Arthur Sullivan's music, even though I'm 11, and I love this CD! The tunes are really catchy, and I'm usually singing one to myself. Not many people my age like light opera, but to me, it's the best music there is. Don't be afraid that you won't like this CD. You'll love it, even though it's hard to understand at sometimes. You might want to listen to some of the songs first to see if you like it. After all, not everyone likes opera.

A Surefire Method of Loosing the Blues.......2000-03-03

This recording, done in a studio, allows the listener to "hear" all the words of all the patter songs. John Reed is just excellent as Koko, the Modern Major General, the Monarch of the Sea. Highlights come from Iolanthe, HMS Pinefore, Yeomen, Mikado, Gondoliers. A truly wonderful experience to be enjoyed over and over.

Music:

Music

music