Gayfest 2003 [Import]
Gayfest 2003 [Import]
Track Listings
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Disc: 1
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1. Where Love Lives [Extended Mix] - Alison Limerick
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2. Brilliant Feeling [Extended Mix]
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3. They Say It's Gonna Rain [Extended Mix]
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4. Happenin' All Over Again [Extended Mix] - Lonnie Gordon
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5. My Love [Extended Mix] - Angie Brown
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6. One Day I'll Fly Away [Extended Mix]
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7. Let the Music Play [Extended Mix]
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8. Brother Louie [Extended Mix] - Modern Talking
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9. No Frills Love [Extended Mix] - Mary Kiani
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10. Free (Let It Be) [Extended Mix]
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See all 15 tracks on this disc
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Disc: 2
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1. Too Blind to See It [Canal Street Megamix by Boyz With Toyz]
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2. Where Love Lives [Canal Street Megamix by Boyz With Toyz] - Alison Limerick
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3. Brilliant Feeling [Canal Street Megamix by Boyz With Toyz]
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4. Happenin' All Over Again [Canal Street Megamix by Boyz With Toyz] - Lonnie Gordon
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5. They Say It's Gonna Rain [Canal Street Megamix by Boyz With Toyz]
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6. Lay All Your Love on Me [Canal Street Megamix by Boyz With Toyz]
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7. Brother Louie [Canal Street Megamix by Boyz With Toyz] - Modern Talking
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8. One Day I'll Fly Away [Canal Street Megamix by Boyz With Toyz]
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9. No Frills Love [Canal Street Megamix by Boyz With Toyz] - Mary Kiani
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10. Let the Music Play [Canal Street Megamix by Boyz With Toyz]
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See all 16 tracks on this disc
Editorial Reviews
Product Description
The Album is a Double CD of Gay Clubbers Favorites (One Disc features Full Length Mixes and One Disc is a Megamix) Including Smashes "Free (Let it Be)" by Stuart, "Where Love Lives" by Alison Limerick, "Brother Louie" by Modern Talking, "Sexy Dancer" by Rockford Files and Many Exclusives Including a New Mix of "Happenin' all Over Again" by Lonnie Gordon.
Gayfest 2003,Various Artists,Klone Records UK,Dance,Dance Music,Pop,V/a Compilations
Average customer rating:
- GO RIHANNA!!!
- Okay, for what it is
- great
- Good Girl Gone Bad Review
- Please don't stop the music!!
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Good Girl Gone Bad
Rihanna
Manufacturer: Island / Def-Jam
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD
General
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Pop Rock
| Pop
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General
| Dance Pop
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Similar Items:
- It Won't Be Soon Before Long
- My December
- Because Of You
- Double Up
- Epiphany
ASIN: B000OZ2CZW
Release Date: 2007-06-05 |
Tracks:
- Umbrella feat. JAY-Z
- Push Up On Me
- Don't Stop The Music
- Breakin' Dishes
- Shut Up and Drive
- Hate That I Love You feat. Ne-Yo
- Say It
- Sell Me Candy
- Lemme Get That
- Rehab
- Question Existing
- Good Girl Gone Bad
Amazon.com
There's a cool new development in summer singles: they no longer need to be sunny. In fact, the wetter the better. "Umbrella," the first single off Rihanna's ragingly good third album, may be her strongest ditty yet, and that's saying something considering her run of past summer chartbusters. More stylish than "S.O.S." (from A Girl Like Me) and more interesting than "Pon de Replay" (from Music of the Sun), "Umbrella" barrels forward with big, brawny drums and a hot but haunted-sounding vocal. From there, the upbeat numbers chug forth like chilled pina colada mix into a blender: "Breakin' Dishes" trades skillfully on a recent vogue for man-directed venom, and "Shut Up and Drive" borrows "S.O.S."-style from the '80s New Order song "Blue Monday." Both are irresistible. So, too, are a couple of late tracks. "Rehab" and "Lemme Get That," both produced by Timbaland, prove that being an island girl is no barrier to holding one's own amid a sizzling stew of urban beats. In fact, it's a boon--one that'll register with pop music fans instantly. -Tammy La Gorce
Album Description
Multi-platinum, award-winning SRP/Def Jam recording artist -and CoverGirl spokesperson - Rihanna has taken over the charts with her # 1 smash single "Umbrella" (featuring JAY-Z) and her chart topping album GOOD GIRL GONE BAD. Rihanna's third album release in less than two years, GOOD GIRL GONE BAD is the follow-up to 2006's platinum A Girl Like Me, with the back-to-back #1 hits, "S.O.S." and "Unfaithful"; and her gold debut from 2005, Music Of the Sun, featuring the worldwide smash, "Pon De Replay." GOOD GIRL GONE BAD boasts the production skills of Timabland, C. "Tricky" Stewart, Stargate, and the team of Evan Rogers and Carl Sturken (responsible for "S.O.S." and "Pon De Replay"), as well as songwriting contributions from Justin Timberlake and Ne-Yo, among others.
Customer Reviews:
GO RIHANNA!!!.......2007-07-10
I THINK THIS IS ONE OF HER BEST ALBUMS. SHE REALLY SHOWS HER VERSITILITY ON THIS ONE. I CAN LISTEN TO ALMOST THE ENTIRE ALBUM AND WHEN YOU CAN DO THAT YOU KNOW ITS WORTH GETTING
Okay, for what it is.......2007-07-09
I listened to this at work and heard it quite a few times over the course of around 5 days. It annoyed some of my workmates and others didn't mind it - I quite enjoyed some of the music on this album, which is undoubtedly well produced. I imagine that it would sound quite good played up loud at a party or in a club.
Some of the song lyrics struck me as being a little silly, but that didn't bother me too much.
I don't think I'd listen to this album very often, but if I had a lot of guests over for a party, I'd consider playing it if people looked like they may want to dance.
great.......2007-07-09
i love this cd its really different form her last two, it shows she's really matured. its def an buyer!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Good Girl Gone Bad Review.......2007-07-09
"Good Girl Gone Bad" is a good album. I feel Rihanna has taken her music to a new level and it really shows in her music. If she keeps this up she'll go a long way. I recommend this album to anyone who is a Rihanna fan or people who appreciate her music.
Please don't stop the music!!.......2007-07-09
I cannot stop listening to this album repeatedly! LOVE LOVE LOVE IT! Rihanna is a truly talented artist. I love her songs, beats, and her attitude on this album. This album makes me wanna get up and dance. Check out Breakin' Dishes...I didn't like it right away, but after hearing it a few times, it captures the anger a woman can feel for a man doing her wrong.
Average customer rating:
- The Last Kander and Ebb
- All DAVID HYDE PIERCE FANS WILL LOVE IT!!!!!!!!!
- Very Pleasant
- Pure Entertainment
- Curtains is hilarious
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Curtains (2007 Original Broadway Cast)
Manufacturer: Manhattan Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD
Musical Theater
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Similar Items:
- 110 in the Shade (2007 Broadway Revival Cast)
- Spring Awakening (2006 Original Broadway Cast)
- Grey Gardens - A New Musical (2006 Original Broadway Cast)
- The Pirate Queen (2007 Original Broadway Cast)
- Company (2006 Broadway Revival Cast)
ASIN: B000PC1QKQ
Release Date: 2007-06-05 |
Tracks:
- Overture
- Wide Open Spaces
- What Kind Of Man?
- Thinking Of Him
- The Woman's Dead
- Show People
- Coffee Shop Nights
- In the Same Boat
- I Miss the Music
- Thataway!
- The Man Is Dead
- He Did It
- In the Same Boat
- It's a Business
- Kansasland
- Medley: Thinking Of Him/I Miss the Music
- A Tough Act To Follow
- In the Same Boat
- In the Same Boat
- Show People
- Wide Open Spaces
- A Tough Act To Follow
Amazon.com
Sadly, Curtains is the final entry in the long and fruitful partnership of lyricist Fred Ebb (who died in September 2004) and composer John Kander. While the show doesn't reach the heights of the team's previous masterpieces, such as Cabaret and Chicago, it's certainly a lot better than, say, their middling 1997 offering Steel Pier. Deliberately old-fashioned (it even features a real overture, something that's fast becoming a rarity), Curtains is a whodunit rolled into a musical--or vice versa. Set in 1959 Boston, it takes place backstage at a singing-and-dancing Western corker titled Robbin Hood. Someone gets killed, and a show tunes-crazy homicide detective (David Hyde Pierce) is called in. The plot is just a pretext for a series of very entertaining, characteristically brass-heavy songs that may not have the bite of old Kander and Ebb but are still very catchy. Above all, Curtains is (both thematically and stylistically) a love letter to old-school showbiz, and it's delivered on a silver platter by a cast of pros that includes the aforementioned Hyde Pierce, Kander and Ebb habituée Karen Ziemba, endearing Jason Danieley and, a notch above the rest, Debra Monk. Unsurprisingly, she chews the scenery and spits it right back in a pair of rowdy numbers: "Show People" and "It's a Business." --Elisabeth Vincentelli
Album Description
Curtains is an entertaining play within a play, as well as a "whodunit" new musical comedy featuring one of the last scores by legendary, Tony Award-winning songwriters
John Kander and
Fred Ebb (Cabaret, Chicago, New York, New York). Starring
David Hyde Pierce (Spamalot, "Frasier") and Debra Monk, the Curtains original Broadway cast album is produced by nine-time Grammy Award-winner Jay David Saks.
Customer Reviews:
The Last Kander and Ebb.......2007-07-13
Couldn't miss the opportunity to hear the last of the Kander and Ebb collaboration. This score has a familiar feel to it. The music is good but not great and the show seems as if it would be fun.
All DAVID HYDE PIERCE FANS WILL LOVE IT!!!!!!!!!.......2007-07-10
And even if you are not---the music is great!!!!!! This is the final collaboration between John Kander and the late Fred Ebb--plus throw in the efforts of Rupert Holmes (who wrote the underated MYSTERY OF EDWIN DROOD--and everyone's favorite guilty pleasure 70's tune--THE PINA COLADA SONG). Anyway, I always thought David was robbed of a TONY nod for SPAMALOT--so his win for this was quite overdue!
Every song is a winner---and it is not just because of Pierce--Deborah Monk also has one of the great show stoppers "IT'S A BUSINESS"!
All theatre buff will enjoy--I certainly did!
Very Pleasant.......2007-07-10
Nice, witty and pleasant music. Sadly, as the teams last work, it is not on a par with their earlier efforts. I kept expecting the big, gorgeous, soaring ballad of other shows, but it never really comes. I still think Steel Pier is their best work (tho the show didn't work). However when you are the composers of Cabaret, The Happy Time, Woman of the Year, Chicago, The Act and The Rink (among still more), you go down in theater history as one of the great songwriting teams in American theater.
The performers are all first rate, David Hyde Pierce and Debra Monk are hoots. KAren Ziemba, as always, is wonderful. A major disappointment is that Jason Danielly's beautiful tenor voice is not given more to do. Overall, pleasant fun!!
Pure Entertainment.......2007-07-10
Very entertaining. A fitting finale to the partnership of Kander & Ebb.
The story is immaterial to the music. A strong cast carries off what could be considered a nonsense piece. Plaudits all round to the cast, writers and producers.
Curtains is hilarious.......2007-07-09
David Hyde Pearce is excellent as the detective -- finally breaking away from his Niles Crane persona. He's not a great singer, but he sure can put over his songs. I was particularly impressed with Debra Monk who is delightfully catty and crude and she sings beautifully. The score is not Kander & Ebb's best, but the lyrics are clever and sometimes had be LMAOROTF.
Average customer rating:
- A Few Good Moments, But Disappointing Overall
- A very good recording
- The Pirate Queen
- A minor effort, but it has its moments
- my thoughts
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The Pirate Queen (2007 Original Broadway Cast)
Manufacturer: Sony Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD
Musical Theater
| Vocal Non-Opera
| Opera & Vocal
| Styles
| Music
General
| Musicals
| Broadway & Vocalists
| Styles
| Music
General
| Soundtracks
| Styles
| Music
General
| Classical
| Styles
| Music
General
| Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music
| Forms & Genres
| Classical
| Styles
| Music
Similar Items:
- Curtains (2007 Original Broadway Cast)
- Legally Blonde (2007 Original Broadway Cast)
- 110 in the Shade (2007 Broadway Revival Cast)
- Spring Awakening (2006 Original Broadway Cast)
- High Fidelity (2006 Original Broadway Cast)
ASIN: B000QTCY72
Release Date: 2007-07-03 |
Tracks:
- Prologue
- Pirate Queen
- Woman
- My Grace
- Here on This Night
- Waking of the Queen
- Rah-Rah, Tip-Top
- Choice Is Mine
- Boys'll Be Boys
- Wedding
- I'll Be There
- Day Beyond Belclare
- Sail to the Stars
- Entr'acte
- Enemy at Port Side
- I Dismiss You
- If I Said I Loved You
- Role of the Queen
- Christening
- Let a Father Stand by His Son
- Surrender
- She Who Has All
- Sea of Life
- Woman to Woman
- Finale
Amazon.com
The Pirate Queen, with a score by Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg (Les Misérables, Miss Saigon), took a critical beating when it opened on Broadway, but as this catchy cast recording demonstrates, that reception was really unnecessarily harsh. Set in the 17th century, the show (which closed after only 85 performances) tells the story of Grace O'Malley (Stephanie J. Block), an Irish ship captain and pirate who defied Queen Elizabeth I (Linda Balgord). The combination of that setting with the fact that the producers also brought us Riverdance means an overall Celtic flavor. But fans of Boublil and Schönberg should not fear. The duo delivers plenty of the over-the-top, super-emotional power ballads they're famous for--it's hard not to wonder what Celine Dion would make of songs such as "Woman" or "I'll Be There" (the latter sung by a man, but no matter!). Special kudos to Balgord, whose deliciously campy stage portrayal of Elizabeth I comes across well on "The Waking of the Queen," "The Role of the Queen," and two harpsichord-driven, vibrato-laden duets with Block, "She Who Has All" and "Woman to Woman." Also of note to fans of traditional singing is the participation of Áine Uí Cheallaigh (known from Riverdance) on several tracks. --Elisabeth Vincentelli
Customer Reviews:
A Few Good Moments, But Disappointing Overall.......2007-07-13
I saw this show twice during its run: once in Chicago, once in New York. Loving both "Les Miserables" and "Miss Saigon", I had high expectations for "The Pirate Queen". Sadly, the show was disappointing - primarily from the once aspect I assumed would be great: the music.
The score's orchestrations sound terrific and the cast is quite good (esp. Stephanie J. Block), but (as this cast album reflects) only a couple of songs maintain any real staying power:
Woman
I'll Be There
She Who Has All
Not bad, but could/should have been so much more.
A very good recording.......2007-07-11
I really like the CD. I find it too short but it was beautifully recorded. The voices were very strong and the orchestration was done nicely. I really didn't like the electric guitar, it seems so out of place sometimes over powering the vocal especially during I'll be there.
The Pirate Queen.......2007-07-11
"The Pirate Queen" was a genious yet unique piece of musical theatre that suffered a harsh yet undeserved fate. I was very blessed to see this show twice on Broadway, including its very last performance on Broadway June 17th. Everytime I listen through the cast recording, I have to question why this show got the ratings it did. I refuse to believe that the critics that panned the show were watching and hearing the same show that I was. The cast, though, including the powerful and haunting vocals from Stephanie J. Block, were all incredibly talented and gave a thrilling and unforgetable experience every performance. I continue to feel shivers when I hear the Prologue, and can still perfectly visualize the opening scene. Some of the highlighted solos of the show include Ms. Block's "Woman" and Hadley Frasier's "I'll Be There". The conversations (duets) held between Grania and Queen Elizabeth in "She Who Has All" and "Woman to Woman" portray the strength and meeting of two historical women in such a time when powerful females were unheard of. Songs that include the chorus such as "A Day Beyond Belclare", "Sail to the Stars", and "Sea of Life" will surely leave you with the chills from the power and depth of the songs. There are so many other songs on the cast recording, and if I could I would tell you the magic behind each and every one of them, but I'll let you listen to it and experience it for yourself. Even though this show was robbed of the recognition it deserved, we are so incredibly fortunate to have a cast recording to allow us who have seen the show to re-live the magic we experienced, and also portray the beauty of such a wonderful yet short lived musical to those who did not have the chance to see it. "The Pirate Queen" may not be playing on Broadway now, but this CR will allow this enchanting show to forever live in our hearts. Long live the Queen!
A minor effort, but it has its moments.......2007-07-10
Since the ill-fated "Martin Guerre" in the 90's, I've been waiting for Boublil and Schonberg to make a comeback and recapture some of the glory they achieved with their blockbuster 80's musicals, "Les Miserables" and "Miss Saigon." Unfortunately, "The Pirate Queen" is more throwback than comeback. Despite some Irish folk stylings thrown in to fit this story about an Irish female pirate, the music is just too similar to their earlier works, never sounding sufficiently new or original. It's derivative, no question, but fortunately, it's derivative of shows I really like (well, not "Martin Guerre" so much, but I'm certainly a fan of "Les Miz" and "Saigon."). Schonberg has a talent for unabashed dramatics, and when he turns it on here in songs like "I'll Be There" and "A Day Beyond Belclare," I can't help but get lost in my nostalgia for the pop opera spectacles that introduced me to musicals and cast recordings. Unfortunately, even nostalgia can't do much about duds like "Boys'll Be Boys," a gratingly corny number that musically is sort of a cross between "Master of the House" from "Les Miz" and "What a Waste" from "Saigon." And don't even get me started on the depressingly banal lyrics throughout, which are never more than functional. But I like the performances of stars Stephanie J. Block and Hadley Fraser, who both have impressive voices that are a perfect fit for this style of musical. Overall, "The Pirate Queen" is the musical equivalent of a summer popcorn movie ("Pirates of the Carribean," perhaps?), and on that level, it works just well enough.
my thoughts.......2007-07-10
well, first off, I was shocked that the stores didn't carry more copies of this...I really had to look around for it but finally got it...This show is not great...It's not what it could be, but it has got a great cast, and some great great music...
Some songs I really enjoy are "The Pirate Queen", "Boys Will be Boys", "A Day Beyond Belcare", Sail to the Stars" One thing this Cd really has is GREAT ensemble numbers. The music really lets the cast's vocals shine, moreso than a lot of shows. I'd say that's one of the biggest highlights.
What REALLY makes this CD, and the song that I will listen to over and over and over and over again is Hadley Fraser's "I'll Be There". This is one of if not the best song for a male character B and S ever wrote. It's gorgeous and Hadley sings it brilliantly. He has the power in both the lower and higher register, he has a gorgeous tenor voice but it is so rich and powerful, yet lyric at the same time...so good.
The rest of the CD is just so so...Get it for "I'll be there" and the great Chorus numbers, but I was disappointed that Block didn't get her equivalent to "I'll be there" and The queen stuff is really annoying to listen to...
Jeff McCarthy does a great job as the dad...he has the perfect Boublil and Schonberg authoritative, legit baritone voice you'd want in a Javert or that type of character. It's not a CD or a show that's flawless, but for sure worth getting because where it's strong it's very strong.
Average customer rating:
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Legally Blonde (2007 Original Broadway Cast)
Manufacturer: Ghostlight
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD
General
| Musicals
| Broadway & Vocalists
| Styles
| Music
General
| Soundtracks
| Styles
| Music
Similar Items:
- Curtains (2007 Original Broadway Cast)
- The Pirate Queen (2007 Original Broadway Cast)
- Hairspray (Soundtrack to the Motion Picture)
- 110 in the Shade (2007 Broadway Revival Cast)
- High Fidelity (2006 Original Broadway Cast)
ASIN: B000R7I3NW
Release Date: 2007-07-17 |
Tracks:
- Legally Blonde, Musical/Omigod You Guys
- Legally Blonde, Musical/Serious
- Legally Blonde, Musical/What You Want
- Legally Blonde, Musical/The Harvard Variations
- Legally Blonde, Musical/Blood in the Water
- Legally Blonde, Musical/Positive
- Legally Blonde, Musical/Ireland
- Legally Blonde, Musical/Ireland (Reprise)
- Legally Blonde, Musical/Serious (Reprise)
- Legally Blonde, Musical/Chip on My Shoulder
- Legally Blonde, Musical/So Much Better
- Legally Blonde, Musical/Whipped into Shape
- Legally Blonde, Musical/Take It Like a Man
- Legally Blonde, Musical/Bend and Snap
- Legally Blonde, Musical/There! Right There!
- Legally Blonde, Musical/Legally Blonde
- Legally Blonde, Musical/Legally Blonde Remix
- Legally Blonde, Musical/Find My Way/Finale
Amazon.com
Like Wicked, this show is a girl-friendly extravaganza; the main difference--and it's a big one--is that the score of Legally Blonde is better. Based on the hit Reese Witherspoon movie, the zippy, frothy show tells the story of SoCal, pink-loving sorority girl Elle Woods, who enrolls at Harvard Law and goes on to prove that appearances can be deceiving. The opening number, "Omigod You Guys," gives an idea of what the Broadway-pop score by Laurence O'Keefe (Bat Boy--The Musical) and Nell Benjamin is up to, embracing its over-the-top cheer with goofily infectious energy. Sure, a couple of numbers feel a bit derivative (the show with the witches has "Popular," this one has "Positive"), and the Celtic detour ("Ireland") is rather puzzling, but overall the songs are firing on all cylinders. Just check out the use of a marching band on "What You Want" for instance. Laura Bell Bundy (Amber von Tussle in Hairspray) is a charming Elle, and she delivers numbers such as "So Much Better" with the requisite elan. But this is not a one-woman show, and Bundy is surrounded by a crack team, including the endearing Christian Borle as Elle's love interest Emmett, power-piped Orfeh as hairdresser Paulette and up-and-comer Leslie Kritzer as Delta Nu's Serena. --Elisabeth Vincentelli
Average customer rating:
- My hat is off to the Master! Beautiful melodic trance.
- the best of 07'
- Top Trance Album of 2007 By Far
- Best trance album since the halcyon days of 99'
- A State of Trance 2007
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A State of Trance 2007
Armin van Buuren
Manufacturer: Ultra Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD
General
| Dance & DJ
| Styles
| Music
General
| Dance Pop
| Dance & DJ
| Styles
| Music
Similar Items:
- Anjunabeats, Vol. 5
- Elements of Life
- Passport to the United States of America
- A State of Mind
- Ibiza '06
ASIN: B000PSJBKW
Release Date: 2007-06-05 |
Tracks:
- Light The Skies
- Carry Me Away
- Together We Rise
- Who Will Find Me
- Reasons To Forgive
- Distance, The
- Wouldn't Change A Thing
- In & Out
- Touch The Sun
- Kalopsia
- Always A Fool
- Tremble
Tracks:
- Miserere
- Rush Hour
- Untitled
- Formentera What
- Ascent
- Space We Are, The
- I Am
- Evergeen
- Firefly
- What You Need
- Anthem
- Whatever
- Why?
- Day Seven
- One More Night Out
Album Description
Van Buuren is one of the biggest names in dance music and the current #3 DJ in the world (as voted by a DJ Mag poll). He continually pushes the bar with fresh trance sounds. This is the next chapter in his annual mix album series; a two-disc continuous mix of this year's hottest trance tunes from a stellar lineup. Alongside Armin's superior mixing skills, "A State Of Trance" is an inspiring and uplifting aural experience.
Customer Reviews:
My hat is off to the Master! Beautiful melodic trance........2007-07-12
First of all, make sure you get the album that has 12 tracks on First CD and 16 on the second. There is a version that doesn't have "perspective" track from CD 2, unless amazon made a mistake.
Now, most, if not all tracks on this CD are perfected and very pleasant to the ear. I was expecting this from Armin Van Buuren, but I didn't expect such a sugary-sweet melody, combined with great vocals and such a profound and non-apologetic use of musical instruments, may it be piano or "trance" organ. By many standards this is his best work yet!
Oh, and a term I have never heard, Ambient Trance.
the best of 07'.......2007-07-09
Considering the previous 'state of trance' experiences, I was expecting a good one from Armin.. But this is way beyond it..
The concept of CD1 and CD2 perfectly fit the sound inside them..
The first CD would be a perfect companion on an 'after sun' session watching the sunset on the beach.. A smooth vocal trance.. (Actually the first two songs tell the story :)
The cd opens with 'Cerf, Mitiska & Jaren - Light The Skies (Retrobyte's Classic Electrobounce Mix)', follwed by 'Chris Lake feat. Emma Hewitt - Carry Me Away'..
No need to tell the rest for CD1.. You can easily imagine them, if I give you a couple of names.. Kirsty Hawkshaw, DJ Sash, Kyau & Albert, Jennifer Rene.. etc.. A perfect warm up for a summer night..
CD2 is darker.. It opens with 2 Armin songs 'Miserere' and 'Rush Hour', which set the dark club sound - especially compared with the first CD.. The first 30 mins goes with non vocal trance.. Dark but very uplifting.. Markus Schulz, Mike Foyle, Lost Witness are a couple of names I can mention for the rest..
And it closes with one of the top djs of recent times - Sean Tyas.. another great work from him after the 'Lift'..
In short.. Fantastic compilation.. Don't miss it.. I'm sure most of us will enjoy the CD all through the summer..
Top Trance Album of 2007 By Far.......2007-07-07
I am a big fan of the prestigious DJs for their incredible talent on putting together such amazing mixes, but Armin is by far the most developed DJ and one of the most talented DJs in the world. This album is purely amazing... CD #1 (On The Beach) has songs with such amazing melody and incredible vocals that just gives you goosebumps. CD #2 (The Club) contains more upbeat and progressive songs and remixes. CD #1 is my favorite cd out of the two mainly because of the seductive vocals but overall this whole album is phenomenal.
I've had this album for two weeks now and I've been playing it everyday and I still haven't gotten sick of it! Armin has developed so much and right now he's on fire. Tiesto and PVD have deserved the #1 ranking in years past but AVB is getting my vote for #1 DJ for the DJ Mag rankings. Long live AVB!
Best trance album since the halcyon days of 99'.......2007-07-04
Disc one is simply amazing. I have not heard such a consistent and inspiring mix since Oakenfold's peak in the late ninties. I have never much cared for AVB in the past but have always kept on top of his ASOT mixes as they always tended to bring out some good tracks here and there. But with disc one of this album AVB went WAY beyond anything he has ever done before. This album is an instant classic. A State of Trance 2007 is THE must have album of 2007. Read the other reviews, they pretty well say it all. You will not be dissapointed.
A State of Trance 2007.......2007-06-26
I can't really add a lot to the other reviews. But what I can say is this: If you were going to buy make one trance purchase this year, Armin van Buuren's "A State of Trance 2007" should be it.
There is a seemingly unending supply of trance/ dance/ electronica CD's out there for purchase. It's impossible for me to keep up with them. I imagine it's impossible for a new listener to know what to buy. But you can never go wrong with Armin van Buuren's State of Trance series.
It's basically the gold standard for trance music. So pick it up. It's solid from start-to-finish over both discs, which is an impressive feat. I dare you to put this on and not be moving in your seat, tapping your feet, feeling it! Good stuff!
Average customer rating:
- Wonderful Cast Album
- Fabulous recording of a terrific score
- My new favorite show
- It's not 110%
- Beautiful music
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110 in the Shade (2007 Broadway Revival Cast)
Manufacturer: P.S. Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD
Musical Theater
| Vocal Non-Opera
| Opera & Vocal
| Styles
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Similar Items:
- Curtains (2007 Original Broadway Cast)
- Spring Awakening (2006 Original Broadway Cast)
- Grey Gardens - A New Musical (2006 Original Broadway Cast)
- Company (2006 Broadway Revival Cast)
- The Pirate Queen (2007 Original Broadway Cast)
ASIN: B000PMG9GW
Release Date: 2007-06-12 |
Tracks:
- Another Hot Day
- Lizzie's Comin' Home
- Love, Don't Turn Away
- Poker Polka
- The Hungry Men
- The Rain Song
- You're Not Fooling Me
- Cinderella
- Raunchy
- A Man and a Woman
- "She Walked Out On Me..."
- Old Maid
- Evenin' Star
- Everything Beautiful
- "Stay and Talk..."
- Melisande
- Simple Little Things
- Little Red Hat
- Is It Really Me?
- Wonderful Music
- The Rain Song (reprise)
Amazon.com
More than four decades after its Broadway debut, the Roundabout Theatre's 2007 revival of 110 in the Shade is a glorious showcase for soprano Audra McDonald, and an eloquent statement for an underrated and neglected work. Based on N. Richard Nash's play The Rainmaker, 110 in the Shade tells the story of a Texas town stuck in a blistering heat wave. Lizzie (McDonald), the daughter of a local widower (Broadway veteran and TV star John Cullum), has resisted all suitors, including the sheriff (Christopher Innvar), until a potential huckster named Starbuck (Steve Kazee) arrives in town promising to bring rain ("The Rain Song"). Just like Marian the librarian, Lizzie thinks she sees right through the scam ("You're Not Fooling Me"). McDonald shines in her solos ("Love, Don't Turn Away," "Old Maid"), but Cullum, Innvar, and Kazee also get their moments either in duets with McDonald ("A Man and a Woman," "Simple Little Things," "Is It Really Me?") or by themselves. 110 in the Shade is obscure compared to Tom Jones and Harvey Schmidt's most famous work, The Fantasticks--none of its songs ever entered the popular culture like "Try to Remember"--but it's a beautiful, evocative score that is tailor-made for McDonald's rich voice. It's also much more sumptuous than The Fantasticks, even in Jonathan Tunick's pared-down, Tony-nominated orchestrations. (Also nominated were McDonald, Cullum, lighting designer Christopher Akerlind, and the show itself for Best Revival of a Musical.) P.S. Classics puts out its usual first-rate package, with color photos, introduction by Peter Filichia, synopsis, and libretto. --David Horiuchi
Customer Reviews:
Wonderful Cast Album.......2007-07-13
Saw a number from this show on the Tony Awards and ordered it immediately. Was not disappointed. The whole album is wonderful.
Fabulous recording of a terrific score.......2007-07-12
This is simply the best recording of 110 In The Shade, a sadly neglected show by the composer and lyricist of The Fantasticks. It's a far superior score to The Fantasticks, but the original show didn't enjoy a long run on Broadway. Listen to the original broadway cast and I think you can hear why. The original cast sounds pallid in comparison to the cast on this terrific recording led by Audra MacDonald, who seems to have finally found a great part for herself. The supporting cast does not disappoint and the orchestra plays brightly. The only competition to this set is a British recording (now out of print) with cast that featured Karen Ziemba. That's a good set but Audra MacDonald's performance makes this recording the definitive version.
My new favorite show.......2007-07-12
Oh wow! The music in this show is beautiful and fun. The cast is loaded with amazing voices with Audra McDonald shining above all. Her "Raunchy" number is outstanding and keeps a grin on your face from beginning to end. I've always loved the "Rainmaker" play and the music, for me, just makes it even better. Both male leads have voices that could melt a maid's heart and I'm just glad it's not me having to choose between the two!
It's not 110%.......2007-07-05
The CD is well produced and Audra McDonald is wonderful, but most of the music sounds dated and old fashioned. Maybe that's because the show is dated and old fashioned.
Beautiful music.......2007-07-05
I saw this recently on Broadway, and it was an incredibly compelling show. Who knew? I had never heard of it. Audra sounds absolutely magnificent on this cast recording. Her songs alone make it a worthwhile purchase. Add great supporting singers and fun orchestrations, and you have a memorable album to add to your collection.
Average customer rating:
- I love this CD
- Great
- GREAT!
- Great Contemporary Christian Songs
- Great collection!
|
WOW Hits 2007
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Wow Gospel Hits
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD
General
| Christian & Gospel
| Styles
| Music
Christian Alternative
| Christian & Gospel
| Styles
| Music
Compilations
| Christian & Gospel
| Styles
| Music
| Contemporary Christian
| Gospel
Christian Contemporary Music
| Christian & Gospel
| Styles
| Music
Similar Items:
- WOW Hits 2006
- See the Morning
- WOW Worship: Aqua
- WOW Hits 2005
- Wow #1s: 31 of the Greatest Christian Music Hits Ever
ASIN: B000HOJQYK
Release Date: 2006-10-03 |
Tracks:
- Lifesong - Casting Crowns
- So Long Self - Mercyme
- How Great Is OUr God - Chris Tomlin
- My Saviour My God - Aaron Shust
- This Man - Jeremy Camp
- Held - Natalie Grant
- Cry Out To Jesus - Third Day
- Only Grace - Matthew West
- Wholly Yours - David Crowder*Band
- What If - Nichole Nordeman
- Welcome Home (You) - Brian Littrell
- I Am - Mark Schultz
- Here I Am - Michael W. Smith
- I Am Free - Newsboys
- Without You - Big Daddy Weave
- Happy - Ayiesha Woods
Tracks:
- Let Go - BarlowGirl
- Burn For You (Shortwave Radio Remix) - Tobymac
- Who I Am Hates Who I've Been - Relient K
- We Live - Superchick
- Everything You Ever Wanted - Hawk Nelson
- Ready For You - Kutless
- Dead Man (Carry Me) - Jars Of Clay
- We - Joy Williams
- I'm Mot Alright - Sanctus Real
- Fearless - Building 429
- Alive - Rebecca St. James
- All That I Am - The Afters
- Free - Shawn McDonald
- Fire - Krystal Meyers
- I Can't Do This - Plumb
- Sounds Of Melodies - Leeland
- Can't Go On - Group 1 Crew
Album Description
DESCRIPTION: The WOW franchise features the most successful gospel singles of the year with a 2 CD set and a companion DVD. WOW Gospel 2007 is the newest addition to this highly-anticipated series, and will no doubt feature the biggest gospel radio singles of 2006. WOW Gospel will be celebrating its 10th anniversary, so it is sure to be the most spectacular yet!
Customer Reviews:
I love this CD.......2007-07-12
I love this series of cds. My favorite in this set is the "pink" cd, which seems to be a little edgier. Even my hubby will listen.
Great.......2007-06-13
I love it!! I have just started listening to Christian music again and this is full of uplifting songs.
GREAT!.......2007-05-14
Songs are super and inspirational. All artists are great except Natalie Grant, who I personally don't care for! Other than that---exceptional CD!
Great Contemporary Christian Songs.......2007-05-13
Bought for my son. He loves it! This is the fourth year in a row he has asked for the WOW Hits! They are all great.
Great collection!.......2007-04-25
This 2 cd set is a great collection of Christian music. CD 1 has excellent tracks...most of which are heard on KLOVE radio. CD 2 has a lot of "non-mainstream" Christian tracks which are pretty good. Out of the last 4 years of these, this one is the best!
Average customer rating:
- Can't face the liner notes
- WONDERFUL - JUST WHAT THE DOCTOR ORDERED . . . .
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Face the Music (2007 Encores! Cast Recording)
Manufacturer: Drg
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD
General
| Soundtracks
| Styles
| Music
Similar Items:
- Curtains (2007 Original Broadway Cast)
- The Pirate Queen (2007 Original Broadway Cast)
- 110 in the Shade (2007 Broadway Revival Cast)
- Legally Blonde (2007 Original Broadway Cast)
- High Fidelity (2006 Original Broadway Cast)
ASIN: B000R9R4RG
Release Date: 2007-07-03 |
Customer Reviews:
Can't face the liner notes.......2007-07-06
It is always terrific to have another "Encores!" recording; if one includes the Broadway transfer of "Chicago" this makes the thirteenth CD. The usual talent onstage and off are apparent, but the score this time seems distinctly second-rate Berlin (which is still beter than first-rate most everyone else). There is a sameness to the tunes and flatness in orchestration that is not apparent in, say, "Louisiana Purchase." Worst of all, though, is the sloppy packaging by the usually impeccable DRG: the tracking goes wrong midway (cuts 6 and 7 are linked together, throwing all subsequent numbering off); songs that are solos as presented are listed with multiple artists (e.g., "Crinoline Days," etc) and vice versa ("Soft Lights & Sweet Music"); an entire verse is left off of the libretto to "Crinoline Days;" and there are textual errors throughout ("I needed a faithful lover/And..." rather than "lover/Who." Not quite a glittering diamond, this is more of a rhinestone disc.
WONDERFUL - JUST WHAT THE DOCTOR ORDERED . . . . .......2007-07-03
I defy anyone to listen to this glorious show and not sustain a wall-to-wall grin from beginning to end. Written (in 1932) to lift the spirits of depression-weary Americans, FACE THE MUSIC is a brilliant example of a bygone Broadway era and the genius of one of America's greatest songwriters, Irving Berlin. I can picture Berlin and his collaborator Moss Hart, one of America's most successful playwrights, doubling over with laughter while putting this show together, a show that ". . . sends up showbiz, political corruption, Helen Morgan, nudity, optimism, parades, chorines, cows, and Catskill Resorts, among other things." (The quotes come from David Ives' terrific liner notes.) Ives further writes, "Frankly, I'm a sucker for any show with an elephant and somebody named Meshbesher, even when I have to adopt out the elephant for budgetary reasons. Of Mrs. Meshbesher, the more said the better." Mrs. Meshbesher, incidentally, is played by the incomparable Judy Kaye.
In these times of "budgetary restraint," one might have to make do without the elephant, but thanks to City Center Encores!, you can hear this marvelous score in all its glory, with orchestrations faithfully restored by Bruce Pomahac and vocal arrangements by Guest Musical Director Rob Fisher. Just close your eyes and let your imagination take over, furnishing the sets and costumes (and the elephant) missing from semi-staged concert versions. And if its necessary to choose between extravagant sets and costumes, lackluster "new" orchestrations & choral arrangements, puny pit bands and decimated choral forces OR legitimate voices that don't require amplification, a sparkling 30-piece orchestra [not a synthesizer in sight], and a singing ensemble numbering at least 20, then it's goodbye helicopters, falling chandeliers and the aforementioned elephant and hello concert versions.
FACE THE MUSIC reveals Irving Berlin as a superlative tunesmith and an unparalleled lyricist. Besides producing at least three bona fide standards ("Let's Have Another Cup of Coffee," "Soft Lights and Sweet Music," "If You Believe" - with Judy Kaye doing some marvelous Florence Foster Jenkins trilling above the chorus and orchestra), the show is chock-full of splendid novelty numbers like "The Police of New York," "Two Cheers Instead of Three," "How Can I Change My Luck," "I Don't Wanna Be Married (I Just Wanna Be Friends," the truly amazing "Torch Song," "Toast to Prohibition," "Manhattan Madness," and "I Say It's Spinach (And To Hell With It)." There's also a wonderful rumba, sung by ingénues Jeffry Denman and Meredith Patterson, entitled "(Castles in Spain) on a Roof in Manhattan."
Some sample lyrics: "While the panic's on/If you look for Otto Kahn/You will find that Otto's gone/To the automat" . . . "I longed to sit upon a piano or an organ/Pouring out my heart - the same as Helen Morgan" . . . "Here's to the eighteenth amendment/Long may America be dry!/Things are going very well/For the gentlemen who sell/To the many thirsty gentlemen who buy" . . . and, from the Gilbert & Sullivan-ish finale, "Once scene in Eden/The girls were naked, I know./One girl, your honor, /Who had nothing upon her/Is here to prove that it's so./Please tell the jury/How you came from Missouri/And joined this terrible show."
Yes, FACE THE MUSIC is just what the doctor ordered for the depression blues and just what we need today. With the price of gasoline and tickets to Broadway shows going through the roof, perhaps we, too, might sing . . . "So when we cheer the stars and stripes/Here's what we'll do,/We'll cheer the red and cheer the white/But not the blue."
Extremely highly recommended.
Average customer rating:
- Excellent "mix tape" for 2007!
- One of the Best CDS
- Excellent
- Grammy 2007 Nominees
- Grammy Noms of 2007
|
2007 Grammy Nominees
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Strategic Marketing
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD
General
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Similar Items:
- 2006 Grammy Nominees
- Not Too Late
- Now, Vol. 24
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- FutureSex / LoveSounds
ASIN: B000KG4BPY
Release Date: 2007-01-23 |
Tracks:
- Crazy - Gnarls Barkley
- Be Without You - Mary J. Blige
- Put Your Records On - Corinne Bailey Rae
- Waiting On The World To Change - John Mayer
- Dani California - Red Hot Chili Peppers
- Sexyback - Justin Timberlake
- Not Ready To Make Nice - Dixie Chicks
- Jesus Take The Wheel - Carrie Underwood
- Hide And Seek - Imogen Heap
- Ain't No Other Man - Christina Aguilera
- Unwritten - Natasha Bedingfield
- You Can Close Your Eyes - Sheryl Crow
- Stupid Girls - Pink
- Black Horse And The Cherry Tree - KT Tunstall
- You're Beautiful - James Blunt
- Save Room - John Legend
- Jenny Wren - Paul McCartney
- Bad Day - Daniel Powter
- My Humps - The Black Eyed Peas
- I Will Follow You Into The Dark - Death Cab For Cutie
- Over My Head (Cable Car) - The Fray
- Is It Any Wonder - Keane
- Stickwitu - The Pussycat Dolls
Customer Reviews:
Excellent "mix tape" for 2007!.......2007-06-23
I ended up with this CD by accident, having forgotten to cancel my monthly selection with BMG. I decided to keep it though and I'm so glad I did. If you are like me and love a good mix tape, and you are still enjoying the Top 40 Grammy winners of this year, then definitely pick up this CD.
It starts with Gnarls Barkley's Crazy, a song I found my mistake on someone's MySpace page, but I added it to a mix tape (CD) and played it nonstop for months. Next up is the oh so hot Mary J. Blige with Be Without You. She could sing the alphabet, and I'd probably buy a copy. The smooth sounds of Corinne Bailey Rae's Put Your Records On rounds out this trio.
Next up is John Mayer, providing a great transition to a few rock and pop songs from the Red Hot Chili Peppers and Justin Timberlake. Prefer a bit of country? The Dixie Chicks (who took home a ton of awards this year) and Carrie Underwood are up next.
Imogean Heap's Hide and Seek takes us into the next genre of music. This is such a great song...it's a mix of Enya, Bjork, and Tori. This song alone made me have to have her album. Shocked that she was up for Best New Artist. Her CD came out in 2005 and still isn't getting radio time. But oh well, you sometimes have to look past the popularity contest that radio stations force us into.
The next round of music is a set of hot women singers who have been rocking the stations all summer long. Christina Aguilera, Natasha Bedingfield (another noteworthy new comer), Sheryl Crow (long time fav), Pink (still amazing us with this album), and KT Tunstall (another great newbie getting air time).
As you can see, the placement and order of all of these songs is superb and really provides you with a fun listening experience. James Blunt is up next with a song I was just about sick of hearing every five minutes in the car, You're Beautiful. This album made me fall in love with it all over again. John Legend follows, someone I had not yet heard much from. I will definitely be checking out more of him soon. Good ole Paul McCartney is next followed by Daniel Powter (his song is one I'm definitely sick of hearing thanks to American Idol. I'm so glad they didn't use it this year.)
So if you are like me, skip Powter and get ready to pick up the beat again with The Black Eyed Peas, Death Cab for Cutie, The Fray, Keane (one of my all time favorite bands), and end with a bit from the PussyCat Dolls.
This album has it all. No jazz or classical here, but the Grammys has a reputation of throwing those guys on the back burner knowing the younger crowd won't listen. Although there were some excellent performers left off this album, the 23 songs you will find hear offer up something for everyone. Like I said, the arrangement of the songs definitely helps and makes this CD one worth buying and popping in the car for long road trips.
Most of these songs are still getting air time on the radio because of their wins, but if you like having the option of skipping over a few and repeating the ones you like best then by all means, buy this CD!
One of the Best CDS.......2007-05-12
This is absolutely one of the best CDs I have ever purchased- price was good also. You don't have to buy separate CDS to get the best of each Artist. Highly reccommend!
Excellent.......2007-04-17
I was very surprised at how much I liked this collection of music, and I am very glad I purchased it. I've lost 10 lbs. listening to Sexyback, just love Corinne Bailey Rae, Hide and Seek gives me goose bumps ... I could go on and on. The quality of the sound is somewhat lacking but ... I don't care because I just love this CD.
Grammy 2007 Nominees.......2007-04-10
It was great to be able to spend $12 to get most of the songs I wanted from this last year. Between KT Tunstall, James Blunt and Keane on one CD--I couldn't ask for a better compilation. There really isn't a single song I didn't like on this CD and if you want a nice eclectic mix--this is a great one to add to your collection!
Grammy Noms of 2007.......2007-04-07
Good CD. Case arrived cracked but CD was ok so it didn't bother me that much.
Average customer rating:
- Captures their Great Sound
- ASIA IS BACK-WELL WORTH THE MONEY
- Add another half star at least...They are back!!
- Best Live Asia CD Yet
- Welcome Back, Steve Howe!!
|
Fantasia - Live In Tokyo: 2007 (2CD)
Asia
Manufacturer: Eagle Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD
General
| Alternative Rock
| Styles
| Music
General
| Rock
| Styles
| Music
Progressive Rock
| Progressive
| Rock
| Styles
| Music
General
| Live Albums
| Rock
| Styles
| Music
Pop Rock
| Pop
| Styles
| Music
Album-Oriented Rock (AOR)
| Classic Rock
| Styles
| Music
Arena Rock
| Classic Rock
| Styles
| Music
Similar Items:
- Snakes & Arrows
- Live at Montreux 2003
- Live in Glasgow
- Somewhere Else
- Different Worlds Live
ASIN: B000QFCD5O
Release Date: 2007-06-26 |
Tracks:
- Time Again
- Wildest Dreams
- One Step Closer
- Roundabout
- Without You
- Cutting It Fine
- Steve Howe Guitar Solo
- Fanfare For The Common Man
- The Smile Has Left Your Eyes
Tracks:
- Don't Cry
- Court Of The Crimson King
- Here Comes The Feeling
- Video Killed The Radio Star
- The Heat Goes On / Carl Palmer Drum Solo
- Only Time Will Tell
- Sole Survivor
- Ride Easy
- Heat Of The Moment
Album Description
Asia, featuring members of Yes, ELP and King Crimson, was the first "supergroup" of the eighties. Their eponymous debut album, released in 1982, was a huge success racking up global sales in excess of 15 million copies. In 2006 the original four members reunited for the first time in over 20 years for a series of concerts in the US and the UK. The success of this tour led to a full-blown world tour running throughout 2007 in celebration of their 25th anniversary. This CD was recorded in Tokyo in March 2007 on the Japanese leg of the tour. The companion DVD will be released in Fall 2007 on Eaglevision.
Customer Reviews:
Captures their Great Sound.......2007-07-03
I saw the reunited Asia last year in Boston and this disc captures the great show that I saw.
They sounded great in Beantown and they sound just as great in Tokyo.
All the hits are here plus songs from each of their respected bands they played in before Asia.
It's a great live disc.
Check it out!
ASIA IS BACK-WELL WORTH THE MONEY.......2007-07-02
ASIA IS BACK!! The Original Members of Asia show after 25 years since release of the 1st CD and this CD shows they have not lost a thing.Wish they had recorded in different country as they would have had a much more enthusiastic audience.
Add another half star at least...They are back!!.......2007-07-01
Well, add another half star at least, despite of listening to a few "oldies" from the classic prog/romantic scene ("Roundabout", "In the Court of the K.C." and "Fanfare for the common man") being a bit strident in comparison to some more commercial/pop hit singles such as "Heat of the moment" or "A Ride easy", which could make me change idea aboout the present reunion...but it's a minor question, because except on strange execution of the above hits (e.g. "Heat of the moment", where S. Howe is not completely into the riff and the aggressive guitar sound of his original take of 1981) as well as within their difficult intro of "Time again" (belonging to a few progressive songs of their debut album here just a bit uneven), the other songs are performed with a good impact, especially by John Wetton, whose voice is almost aligned to his glory days!! I think of a band with such a great experience, even though the set of keyboards used by Downes is not always suitable for their oldies and Steve Howe sometimes seems to be a fish out of water (except on his fine Blues Intersection and of course in the harmonization inside "Fanfare for the common man, without forgetting the best guitar parts of "Roundabout"...). Palmer is a precise drummer (forget a few breaks through only where the whole band is not completely confident) and as usual excellent in his drum solo or once again within the classic instrumental track from "Works" by ELP.
Long Live Asia!!
Best Live Asia CD Yet.......2007-06-29
Asia has released numerous live cd's, all of them good, but most not having that signature sound from the original incarnation of the band. This one changes all of that. This is the band that deserves to carry the Asia name. The CD has all of the hits you would expect in addition to some solo stuff and tracks from various other bands they have been a part of, most notably Yes. The original Asia! Buy it!
Welcome Back, Steve Howe!!.......2007-06-26
Asia has always been a guilty pleasure of mine, so when I heard the original quartet reunited and recorded a live album, this attracted my interest. I've heard live CDs from other incarnations of Asia and the sound quality was lacking. For a live CD, the sound is good here. It could be better, but it could be a whole lot worse. Rather than a rehash of the first album, the band also decided to record one song from each of the band members' pasts. They do so with satisfying results. I wondered how Asia was going to pull off "Roundabout" since John Wetton doesn't "communicate with bats" like Jon Anderson can, nor does Jon Anderson have to play Chris Squire's bass lines, but John Wetton handled both vocals and the bass parts seemingly without effort. Geoff Downes is no Rick Wakeman, but he doesn't need to be. He held up his end. Sometimes Steve Howe gets lost in the mix, but the song sounds ok. The band delivered very well.
As the first reviewer mentioned, the acoustic versions of "Ride Easy" and "Don't Cry" are well done. I actually prefer the version of "Don't Cry" here to the original from "Alpha." Steve Howe plays the mandolin while John Wetton handles the acoustic guitar. The band also plays an acoustic version of "The Smile Has Left Your Eyes" (also better than the original) with Steve Howe on dobro. Take away the studio gloss of their first three albums and you discover these guys are very good musicians. Steve Howe plays a variety of stringed instruments, John Wetton unplugs with an acoustic guitar, and Geoff Downes does very well with the piano. Carl Palmer plays flawlessly throughout as always. I don't think he ever has an off night.
Also noteworthy is the band's rendition of "In the Court of the Crimson King." Greg Lake was a fine singer in his day, but John Wetton outdoes him here. The thought of a four-piece band playing "Fanfare for the Common Man" intrigued me since ELP recorded it without guitars, but Asia makes it work. It's a bit ragged, but it doesn't suck. "Video Killed the Radio Star" is a fun listen, especially with John Wetton using a megaphone in places. Steve Howe gets a solo turn with "Intersection Blues" from his "Natural Timbre" solo CD. Good stuff.
Overall, a good CD well worth every penny spent. It's good to have the original quartet back.
Music Review:
- Global Underground: Singapore [Limited Edition]
- Gran Hermano, Vol. 2 [Import]
- Hard! Immediate Music Programmed by Ivan Smagghe [Import]
- Hardcore [Import]
- Hardcore, Vol. 2 [Box set] [Import]
- House of the Jealous Lovers, Pt. 1 [CD-single] [Enhanced] [Import]
- House of the Jealous Lovers, Pt. 2 [CD-single] [Import]
- I Can't Stand It [CD-single] [Import]
- I Want to Know What Love Is [CD-single] [Import]
- Little Bit of Love [CD-single]
Music Review
music review