Tarkus [Import]

tarkus [import]

Editorial Reviews
Product Description
Japanese limited reissue of the 1971 album has been fully remastered and features the original 7 tracks packaged in a miniature LP sleeve. Victor. 2005.

Tarkus,Emerson Lake & Palmer,Victor,Rock,Rock/Pop

Tarkus [Import]
Just Getting Started
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Perfect condition, perfect music for what I needed
  • Pleasure
  • Just Getting Started
  • Eric Darius Review
  • so young , so talented
 Just Getting Started
Eric Darius
Manufacturer: Narada
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Jazz | Styles | Music
Smooth JazzSmooth Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. New Beginnings
  2. Dressed to Chill
  3. Keepin' It Cool
  4. Pillow Talk
  5. Night on the Town

ASIN: B000EBDAAW
Release Date: 2006-03-07

Tracks:

  1. Steppin' Up
  2. Lover's Paradise
  3. Secret Soul
  4. Groove On
  5. Back At Cha
  6. Right Here, Right Now
  7. That's What I'm Sayin'
  8. If I Ain't Got You
  9. It's Alright With Me
  10. Can't Let Go
  11. Slick

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Perfect condition, perfect music for what I needed.......2007-07-12

The order arrived in a timely manner, and Eric's CD is a perfect combination of uptempo and soothing sounds that will provide a perfect backdrop to most any setting. He is an amazing artist and I will be buying more from this site because it came so quickly and as promised!

5 out of 5 stars Pleasure.......2007-06-23

I had the pleasure to meet Eric in 2004 here in Florida!!!!
He gave me his 1st CD "Eric Darius - Night on the Town 2004" Once I listened to the Cd I said to myself "He is going a Looooooonnnnnnngggggg way with his rare talent" I qoute:

"Sax prodigy Eric Darius took the contemporary jazz world by storm with his 2004 major label debut, NIGHT ON THE TOWN. Critics raved. Retail responded. Fans clamored. Eric's awesome talent and unjaded enthusiasm have made him the undisputed darling of the genre.

His new album, JUST GETTING STARTED, is a superb sophomore effort, jam-packed with tight tunes and swingin' grooves. With tracks produced by and featuring many of the genre's top players, this new set is a bold statement by a jazz star well on his way to the top.

JUST GETTING STARTED pairs Darius with one of his long-time musical inspirations, Brian Culbertson, with the composer/arranger/keyboardist/trombonist taking the producing reins as well as guest performing on several tracks. Narada Jazz labelmate Euge Groove lends his talents on his own composition Back At Cha and the stylish Fender Rhodes on Steppin' Up and Groove On comes courtesy of the Grammy®-nominated multi-instrumentalist, Jeff Lorber. Adding the talents of keyboardist and producer Darren Rahn and guitarist and producer Paul Brown, JUST GETTING STARTED is a bold statement by a jazz star well on his way to the top."

5 out of 5 stars Just Getting Started.......2007-06-09

I'm getting into jazz, don't really know allot of groups/singles etc but what I love Amazon for you can listen to clips. I fell in love with this album. It's supper!

4 out of 5 stars Eric Darius Review.......2007-05-30

Good CD. A little different from what I'm used to; however not bad. i would recommend to other listeners. It's a keeper.

4 out of 5 stars so young , so talented.......2007-05-10

After this young mans debut there was alot to live up to.Although there are some great tracks this is nowhere as strong an album as night on the town.I purchased this album Blind on the basis of his debut and wished for much of the same.May have something to do with his switch in label and production team.If you like this then i advise you to purchase his first release on Higher Octave.
Children Of Eden (1998 New Jersey Cast)
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Excellent recording
  • Diverse music that grows on you
  • As good as any musical recording...
  • Fantastic.
  • In the Beginning......
 Children Of Eden (1998 New Jersey Cast)
Jim Weaver , Ann Bass , Vicki Carter , Barry Cavanagh , Vincent D'Elia , and Darius de Haas
Manufacturer: RCA Victor Broadway
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. Children of Eden: Vocal Selections
  2. Songs for a New World (1996 Original New York Cast)
  3. The Drowsy Chaperone (2006 Original Broadway Cast)
  4. Spring Awakening (2006 Original Broadway Cast)
  5. Little Women The Musical (2005 Original Broadway Cast)

ASIN: B000006OP3
Release Date: 1998-05-19

Tracks:

  1. Let There Be
  2. The Tree Of Knowledge
  3. The Naming
  4. Grateful Children
  5. Father's Day
  6. Perfect
  7. The Spark Of Creation
  8. In Pursuit Of Excellence
  9. The End Of A Perfect Day
  10. Childhood's End
  11. A World Without You
  12. The Expulsion
  13. The Wasteland
  14. The Spark Of Creation (Reprise 1)
  15. Lost In The Wilderness
  16. Close To Home
  17. A Ring Of Stones
  18. The Death Of Abel
  19. The Mark Of Cain
  20. Children Of Eden

Tracks:

  1. Generations
  2. The Gathering Storm
  3. A Piece Of Eight
  4. The Return Of The Animals
  5. Noah's Lullaby
  6. Stranger To The Rain
  7. In Whatever Time We have
  8. The Flood
  9. What Is He Waiting For?
  10. Sailor Of The Skies
  11. The Spark Of Creation (Reprise 2)
  12. The Hardest Part Of Love
  13. Words Of Doom
  14. The Hour Of Darkness
  15. Ain't It Good?
  16. Precious Children
  17. In The Beginning

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Excellent recording .......2007-01-09

This is a wonderful representation of "Children of Eden." The music is powerful, and the actors are wonderful. Highly recommended for anyone who is a fan of the show or of Stephen Schwartz musicals.

5 out of 5 stars Diverse music that grows on you.......2006-09-09

I was in a production of Children of Eden and did not like the music at first. It definitely grows on you and is extremly moving at times, especially the finale "Children of Eden". My favorite though is "Ain't it Good" which I hated when I first heard it. Very good show but remember it is a show and don't get into theological discussions about it's suppossed misrepresentations of the Old Testament. It's fiction and doesn't propose to be anything else.

4 out of 5 stars As good as any musical recording..........2006-06-24

I'm not any sort of theatre expert, so I won't pretend to offer the critical analysis that some other reviewers have provided (rather snobbishly, I might add). Ultimately, I think that this recording is absolutely brilliant. In contrast to some critics, I think that the musical variety contained within this show is stunning, yet I felt like Schwartz was up to the challenge throughout the show, regardless of the style which he was using for a given song. Take note of "In Pursuit of Excellence" as a perfect example of a totally unique, but absolutely engaging song.

For whatever it's worth, I have some serious theological issues with this show. I wouldn't actually recommend anyone to casually watch the show because I think that there are some unfortunate misrepresentations of the character of God. However, there are also some powerful moments of personalizing the story of the human experience within God's creation that become real in ways that only theatre can provide. And it offered hours of good conversation for my wife and me afterwards.

Specifically related to this album, I love it. I'd recommend it to anyone who likes the musical theatre format but who wants some more depth than many Broadway shows.

5 out of 5 stars Fantastic........2006-03-21

I am Pagan, and yet, this is the most moving soundtrack I have ever heard. It isn't about religion, is it? It's about family. It's about parents learning to let their children go, knowing they might let them fall but also knowing it has to happen for them to learn. The way that Father - AKA God - is just a parent, an angry parent trying to shield his children but not knowing how, really brings religion home. First off, I think every Christian should hear this musical. This is what I always thought Christianity should be: God isn't some big guy, he's a dad, end of story. Secondly, every parent and child should hear this, AKA everyone. This definetly made me appreciate the struggles I had with my own parents.
"The hardest part of love is the letting go..."

5 out of 5 stars In the Beginning.............2005-01-23

I wanted this for Christmas for two reasons, 1)I LOVE STEPHEN SCHARTZ( If you don't believe me, see my reviews of Godspell, Pippin and The Magic Show)2) I heard good things about this show. I got this for Christmas, and it was different but still it was great. Its the stories of Adam&Eve, Cain/Abel and Noah's Ark. And it is the first time I ever heard of that God played a physical part, played by the amazing William Solo. The cast is filled with so familiar names, Adrian Zmed(T.J Hooker) who plays Adam and Noah, Stephine Mills(The Wiz) plays Eve and Mama Noah and Keilie Rabke(Joseph and the Amazing Techncolor Dreamcoat). This show is not typical Schwartz fare, but its one of his best.
Night on the Town
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • a Magnificent debut
  • Great!!
  • great new star
  • Fantastic!
  • smoothjazz with a passion
 Night on the Town
Eric Darius
Manufacturer: Higher Octave
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Jazz | Styles | Music
Smooth JazzSmooth Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Just Getting Started
  2. Dressed to Chill
  3. Shine
  4. Keepin' It Cool
  5. Pillow Talk

ASIN: B0002A2VOQ
Release Date: 2004-06-29

Tracks:

  1. Joy Ride
  2. Heads Up
  3. Night On The Town
  4. Let It Flow
  5. Love TKO
  6. In The Pocket
  7. Let's Stay Together
  8. Cruisin'
  9. You're So Fine (Instrumental)
  10. You're So Fine

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars a Magnificent debut.......2007-05-10

This album is oh so good.I think it might have something to do with the fact that it was recorded and produced by the great Mr.Ken Navarro with backing by ken's own over tight band.Eric darius is a Rare Talent,this young man will be around for a long time.This is also one of the best debut albums by a smooth jazz artist ever,only overshadowed by Mike Phillips jaw dropping entry on "you have reached.." 5 stars given as i never had the option to give 7

5 out of 5 stars Great!!.......2006-06-09

I got this cd along with groups of other cds as a sampler. Incredible. I wish the CT area had a jazz station becasue I would request this all the time. Great CD, Get It!!

5 out of 5 stars great new star.......2006-03-09

Eric Darius is a monster. Saw him in Brian Culbertson band just before christmas an couldn't order this cd fast enough. CD is great and he is going to be huge

5 out of 5 stars Fantastic!.......2006-03-01

I heard Eric Darius perform on Warren Hill's Smooth Jazz Cruise and immediately bought his CD "Night on the Town." This is one of those rare CD's where every tune is great. The single "Night on the Town" has hit written all over it. This is currently one of my favorite CD's and I listen to it constantly. Eric plays with subtleties, flavors, and expressions of feelings that will have sax lovers proclaiming that he is one awesome player!

5 out of 5 stars smoothjazz with a passion.......2005-09-29

To be honest,I had never heard of Eric Darius.Since I had never heard of him,I felt he was new.Like,Michael Phillips was a few years ago who was very talented.The cover of the CD,and the title of it impressed me.So I bought it and gave it a listen.And wow!!! was I impressed.This young sax player blew my mind.From the first cut to the last,it was,how you say it,a joy ride.The cd was so amazing I can hardly pick a favorite cut.But let me give you a clue,I played "lets stay together" about 5 times in succession without going to the next cut. exceptional stand outs:(4) let it flow(5)love tko(1)joy ride. To say the least ths young man can blow.He definately have honey in his horn!! Keep it up Eric,You're so fine.
Dreamgirls in Concert (2001 Concert Cast)
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Dreamgirls 2001
  • Not the real "DREAM" experience
  • Absolutely brilliant!
  • Amazing!!!!!!
  • One Night Only
Dreamgirls in Concert (2001 Concert Cast)
Henry Krieger , Audra McDonald , Brian Stokes Mitchell , Emily Skinner , and Darius de Haas
Manufacturer: Nonesuch
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. Dreamgirls (1982 Original Broadway Cast)
  2. Dreamgirls: Music From The Motion Picture [2-CD Deluxe Edition]
  3. Dreamgirls
  4. Company (2006 Broadway Revival Cast)
  5. Grey Gardens - A New Musical (2006 Original Broadway Cast)

ASIN: B00005Y4P4
Release Date: 2002-02-26

Tracks:

  1. I'm Looking for Something, Baby
  2. Goin' Downtown
  3. Takin' the Long Way Home
  4. Move (You're Steppin on My Heart)
  5. Scene: Fifty bucks says the Dreamettes don't win
  6. Fake Your Way to the Top
  7. Scene: It ain't working, Marty
  8. Cadillac Car
  9. Cadillac Car (On the Road)
  10. Cadillac Car (Recording Studio)
  11. Scene: I don't believe they can do that
  12. Steppin' to the Bad Side
  13. Scene: I'm working on a long shot
  14. Party, Party
  15. I Want You, Baby
  16. Scene: I'm a woman now
  17. Family
  18. Scene: What are you doing to that girl?
  19. Dreamgirls
  20. Press Conference
  21. Heavy
  22. Walkin' Down the Strip/Scene: Las Vegas
  23. It's All Over
  24. And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going

Tracks:

  1. Opening Act II: Dreams Medley
  2. Scene: Effie White is the best singer you're gonna find
  3. I Am Changing
  4. Vogue Sequence
  5. When I First Saw You
  6. Ain't No Party
  7. I Meant You No Harm
  8. The Rap
  9. I Miss You, Old Friend
  10. One Night Only
  11. One Night Only (Disco Version)
  12. I'm Somebody
  13. Hard to Say Good-bye
  14. Dreamgirls (Reprise)

Amazon.com

A Chorus Line may be better known, but Dreamgirls was a towering achievement for director Michael Bennett. Loosely based on the Supremes' story, the 1982 musical told a typical show-biz tale of fame, backbiting, and survival. As is often the case for one-night only events, the cast in this concert version (recorded in New York on September 24, 2001) is led by an eye-popping assortment of Broadway powerhouses: Lillias White (The Life), Audra McDonald (Ragtime, Marie Christine), and Heather Headley (Ragtime). McDonald reveals a previously undisclosed comic streak, while Headley confirms her status as a rising star. Reprising the role of Effie Melody White (created by Jennifer Holliday), White belts the classic "And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going." But the beauty of Dreamgirls is that it's so packed with catchy, Motown-influenced R&B numbers that each lead can sink her teeth into some prime material and get a turn in the spotlight. This double-CD set really makes you wish you'd been there when the show was recorded: you can hear the crowd going berserk at times, and the temptation is strong to do the same thing in the comfort of your living room. --Elisabeth Vincentelli

Customer Reviews:

1 out of 5 stars Dreamgirls 2001.......2007-06-27

This was the worst reproduction of Dreamgirls that I ever heard. I was so disappointed the CD went into the garbage. This is one CD that I would not sell to the public because I expect so much and get so little.

4 out of 5 stars Not the real "DREAM" experience.......2007-04-04


Forget about the film sountrack. Get this CD set. And it's far better than the original cast recording which goes lacking. More songs and more everything that makes a live performance just what it is. Live (compared to film where anything can be done to enhance a performance!) -- the energy, the excitement and the performances make this a rare treat for anyone wanting to share in the real DREAM experience.

Isn't a full Broadway revival long over due. But wait: I've heard rumors that a rvial may be "in the works. I certainly hope so. Maybe this time it will receive the Tony award it deserved in the first place.

5 out of 5 stars Absolutely brilliant!.......2007-01-28

There is atleast 5 new songs on this album that were not in the movie! These girls kill it I mean they are just amazing singers, and this all live! This is needed for any Dreamgirls fanatic like me! You are gonna love it! Enjoy! love live laugh :)

5 out of 5 stars Amazing!!!!!!.......2006-12-04

As a theatre lover, this recording is amazing. I actually prefer this recording to the OBC. Sheryl Lee Ralph is okay, but can't touch Audra's Deena. The first time I heard Ms. White's "And I Am Telling You..", goosbumps all over my body. The only weak cast member in my opinon is Heather Headly. Vocally, she just isn't there. Too much Aida, not enough Dreamgirls. But all in all, a great live recording of a great show.

5 out of 5 stars One Night Only .......2006-07-19

I was lucky enough to attend this One Night Only concert performance of Dreamgirls and it was a night I will never forget!! The cast was brilliant and the cd is as good if not better than the Broadway cast recording because it is the entire show not just the songs. Bravo to everyone involved !!!
Back to Then
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • darius in rare form!
  • open your minds!!!
  • wonderful
  • It is what it is!
  • Simply Fantastic and Sadly Overlooked
 Back to Then
Darius Rucker
Manufacturer: Hidden Beach
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
Singer-SongwritersSinger-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music
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  1. Scattered, Smothered and Covered
  2. Looking For Lucky
  3. Hootie & The Blowfish
  4. Musical Chairs
  5. Fairweather Johnson

ASIN: B000066HQD
Release Date: 2002-07-30

Tracks:

  1. Wild One
  2. Exodus
  3. Sometimes I Wonder (w/ Jill Scott)
  4. Back To Then
  5. This Is My World
  6. I'm Glad You're Mine
  7. Butterfly
  8. Hold On
  9. Ten Years
  10. One More Night
  11. Amazing Grace
  12. Somewhere
  13. Sleeping In My Bed (w/ Snoop Dogg)

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars darius in rare form!.......2007-04-09

i love the sound of darius' voice anyway, but this cd showcases his strong voice in just about every song.

5 out of 5 stars open your minds!!!.......2007-03-29

I am no professional music reviewer, but I do know what I like, and I LOVE this CD! Darius is blessed beyond words with that incredible voice of his, and he makes great use of it here. The songwriting is deep and often moving and inspirational;, the music is genre-less, going from an R&B flavor to hip hop to soul and back to rock. NO, it is not Hootie-style, but that works for me. Three cheers for Darius for stretching his wings! Darius---you are AWESOME!!!

5 out of 5 stars wonderful.......2007-03-24

I absolutely love this album. To me it is smooth and sexy. What a sleeper. I wish Darius Rucker would do more solo LPs!

4 out of 5 stars It is what it is!.......2006-09-06

Hootie and the Blowfish this ISNT! But I am here to tell u that there are many good worthy songs on this CD. A few clunkers, particularly the last one with Snoop Dogg. Overall, a solid effort...give Exodus and This is my world a few spins along with Butterfly and you will see what I mean.

5 out of 5 stars Simply Fantastic and Sadly Overlooked.......2005-08-07

NOT HOOTIE AND THE BLOWFISH but a VERY sexy album of soul music for all demographics. I put it on with my wife when we want a little romance and love in the house.

Darius - Thanks man, this album is too good.
Honor Among Thieves
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Not a dud on it.
  • Great songwriting and great singing add up to a great album.
  • The original, the best, and nearly the lost art
  • The Greatest Album of All Time
  • The artist that 'popular' radio forgot!
 Honor Among Thieves
Edwin McCain Band
Manufacturer: Atlantic / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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  1. Misguided Roses
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ASIN: B000005J7S
Release Date: 1995-08-15

Tracks:

  1. Alive
  2. Solitude
  3. Jesters Dreamers and Thieves
  4. Guinevere
  5. Sorry To A Friend
  6. America Street
  7. Russian Roulette
  8. Bitter Chill
  9. Don't Bring Me Down
  10. The Kitchen Song
  11. Thirty Pieces
  12. 3 A.M.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Not a dud on it........2007-02-19

Bit of a stretch giving it a five star rating I originally thought, but it really does deserve it. There are a couple of five-star songs on this album - America Street, and the quieter, sorrowful Sorry to a Friend, but every other one is a four starrer or very close. You won't be bothered getting up to skip any of these tracks while you're listening to Honour Among Thieves, and that makes a pretty good album as far as I'm concerned.

If you like James Taylor, Nickel Creek, The Waifs, or the quieter stuff by Garth Brooks or Lee Kernaghan, you'll be well served by adding this to your collection.

5 out of 5 stars Great songwriting and great singing add up to a great album........2007-02-07

Ediwn McCain's songwriting really shines on this album. The tracks "Sorry to a Friend" and "Solitude" are both destined to be classics among Ediwn McCain fans. Unfortunately, as others have mentioned, he has only had a few radio hits; "I'll Be" being his most popular, and another great example of beautiful lyrics and songwriting, although on a different album.

The tracks range from bluesy folk to light rock. The lyrics are often sublime, and always intelligent. McCain's voice is like a glass of fine whiskey; edgy and smooth at the same time.

Excellent album for those looking for something accessible, yet mature and engaging.

5 out of 5 stars The original, the best, and nearly the lost art.......2004-11-24

This is the album that introduced Edwin McCain to the world, and it is a wonderful amalgam of rock, blues, and jazz, featuring acoustic and electric guitars perfectly blended with saxophones and woodwinds, layered with Edwin's beautfully powerful voice. There is no other album out there with this particular sound.

If you have ever loved an Edwin McCain song, then you simply must get this album. Unfortunately, the woodwinds abruptly disappeared on his next few albums, only to reappear in the latest "Scream and Whisper". You'll appreciate them here.

5 out of 5 stars The Greatest Album of All Time.......2001-08-06

yup, this is it...the best of the best. Not even Edwin McCain has or will be able to outdo himself. This is what music is supposed to be. I will never get enough of it, it's just mind-blowing. Thank you Edwin for raising the bar, you define brilliance.

5 out of 5 stars The artist that 'popular' radio forgot!.......2001-04-24

The first time I heard "Solitude" I said to myself that if one iota of those lyrics had any truth that this guy was the greatest songwriter to live in the last 10 years! When I met Edwin and the band some time in 1996 and found it was a true story I knew he was the greatest songwriter that 'popular' radio would never appreciate. "Solitude" got me to buy the CD, "Jesters,..." made me a huge fan. Because of EMB I've become familiar with two other artists, Jeffrey Gaines and Pete Riley (/Treehouse), who both opened for EMB the numerous times I've seen them. If you like what you hear on the CD but have never seen EMB live you have no clue what you're missing. If you like EMB and you're looking for more fantastic artists check out Jeffrey Gaines and Pete Riley.
The Bubbly Black Girl Sheds Her Chameleon Skin (2007 Studio Cast)
Average customer rating: 3 out of 5 stars
  • The chameleonic LaChanze shines in this bubbly score
 The Bubbly Black Girl Sheds Her Chameleon Skin (2007 Studio Cast)

Manufacturer: Ghostlight
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music
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  2. High Fidelity (2006 Original Broadway Cast)
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  5. 110 in the Shade (2007 Broadway Revival Cast)

ASIN: B000NOKAQ2
Release Date: 2007-04-03

Tracks:

  1. Welcome To My L.A.
  2. Sweet Chitty Chatty
  3. Smile, Smile
  4. Dance Class
  5. The Stake
  6. Sticks & Stones
  7. Pass The Flame
  8. War Is Not Good
  9. Brave New World
  10. Give It Up
  11. Belle Of The Ball
  12. Beautiful Bright Blue Sky
  13. Legacy
  14. Who's That Bubbly Black Girl
  15. Secretarial Pool
  16. Pretty
  17. Director Bob
  18. Come With Me
  19. Granny's Advice
  20. Listen!
  21. There Was A Girl

Album Description

The Bubbly Black Girl Sheds Her Chameleon Skin, with music & lyrics by Kristen Childs; the story - what's a black girl from sunny southern California to do? White poeple are blowing up black girls in Birmingham churches. Black people are shouting "Black is beautiful" while straightening their hair and coveting light skin. Vivea Stanton's answer: Slap on a bubbly smile and be as white as you can be! In a humorous and pointed coming of age story spanning the 60's through the 90's, Viveca blithely sails through the confusing worlds of racism, sexism and Broadway showbiz until she's forced to face the devastating effect self-denial has had on her life.

Customer Reviews:

3 out of 5 stars The chameleonic LaChanze shines in this bubbly score.......2007-04-12

With "The Bubbly Black Girl Sheds her Chameleon Skin," LaChanze seems to be single handedly taking every musical role that calls for an African-American woman to face adversity and age 30+ years or so over the course of a couple hours. After "Dessa Rose" and her Tony-winning performance in "The Color Purple," she proves again that she can pull this aging trick with aplomb (well actually this show predates the others, it's just the recording that's new). I've said it before-- she's a formidable singer-actress.

What's different about this show, with its autobiographical touches by composer-lyricist Kirsten Childs, is that the adversity here does not involve slavery, poverty, or abuse, but rather the difficulties faced by middle class black women finding their way in a world where accusations of "acting white" leave lasting scars as they struggle to find an authentic self. It's refreshing to have this point of view portrayed-- and Childs's music is original and catchy. It shifts skillfully in different ways-- from a sort of pastiche as the story moves from the 60's to the 90's, to some jazzy moments and a lot of interesting rhythms.

The story basically tells of Viveca "Bubbly" Stanton, who grows up in a middle class family during the civil rights era in L.A. and then goes on to become a dancer in New York. Her sunny personality is challenged by the harsh realities of racism, something she deals with, but refuses to accept. Some of the most insightful songs include the ones that handle this in original ways: The pitter- patter of "Sweet Chitty Chatty," in which Viveca, as a child, asks her (white) talking doll why "men throw bombs at kids like me in churches in Birmingham," The dance rhythms of "The Skate," in which a junior high age Viveca successfully integrates the various ethnicities at her school, and "Brave New World," in which Viveca brings home a white boyfriend to her mother (in a nicely unpredictable touch, Viveca's mom doesn't angrily dismiss the relationship outright, but instead just shares her concerns and tells Viveca she'll be there "to break the fall.").

While the show's musical voice and point of view feel fresh, it relies a little too heavily on choruses-- disembodied voices of nobody in particular. Only Viveca emerges as a true character, but a couple songs for two male love interests--"Beautiful Bright Blue Sky" and "Come With Me"-- are notable, even if they feel a little thankless, rather than moving the plot or defining characters. There is an episodic feel to the songs at times, instead of a continually developing plot, and Viveca's final declaration of "keeping it real" feels a bit forced.

Still, this is a musical recording worth checking out-- Childs obviously infused the show with a lot of her own experiences growing up, and her soul-bearing, along with the estimable LaChanze, make for an undeniably affecting listening experience.
Ninna Nanna: Lullabies (1500-2002)
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • An exquisite gem of a desert island CD
  • Sweeping, seductive, and superlative!
  • Mesmerizing music for the heart
  • La Ninna Nanna
  • "Stunningly beautiful" is an understatement
 Ninna Nanna: Lullabies (1500-2002)
William Byrd , Jordi Savall , and Hesperion XXI
Manufacturer: Alia Vox Spain
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000071XAC
Release Date: 2003-02-11

Tracks:

  1. Anon. (Purtugal): Cancao de embalar: Jose embala o menino
  2. Anon. (England): Lullaby: My little sweet darling
  3. Anon. (Greece): Berceuse: Dors mon bebe
  4. Anon. (Sefarade): Berceuse Ladino: Nani, nani
  5. Anon. Berbere: Berceuse Amazigh
  6. William Byrd: Lullaby: Come, pretty babe
  7. Tarquino Merula: Canzonetta spirituale sopra la nanna: Hor ch'e tempo di dormire
  8. Anon. (Alicante): Mareta, mareta no'm faces plorar
  9. Johann Friedrich Reichardt (1752-1814): Chanson d'une maleureuse mere: Dorsmon enfant
  10. Modest Mussorgsky: La Chambre des enfants (1870): Avec la poupee
  11. Anon (Israel): Berceuse hebraique: Noumi, noumi yaldati
  12. Arvo Part: Berceuse de Noel (2002)
  13. Max Reger (1873-1916): Maria Wiegenlied: Maria sitzt am Rosenhag
  14. Manual de Falla (1876-1946): Nana: Duermete, nino, duerme. Canciones populares (1914)
  15. Darius Milhaud: Berceuse hebraique: Dors, dors (1925)
  16. Federico Garcia Lorca: Nana de Sevilla: Este galapaguito (1930)
  17. Arvo Part: Berceuse Estonienne: Kuus, kuus kallike (2002)
  18. Anon. Catalogne: Cancao de Bressol: La mare d e Deu

Amazon.com

This is a formidable collection of lullabies, spanning 500 years, 18 of them (from almost as many countries) in Greek, Latin, Hebrew, Catalan, English, and more, each one lovely, each one in its own idiom. Some are anonymous; others are by composers as different as Byrd, Mussorgsky, Milhaud, and Arvo Pärt. The disc shouldn't be listened to in one setting--no matter how interesting they are, they're still lullabies and can mellow the listener into torpor--but in three-or-so chunks, the contents are fascinating. Figueras can make her sound move from folk to classical, from a mother who is passionate about her child's safety to one who merely wants to entertain into slumber. The anonymous Greek lullaby (track 3) contains the oddest little vocal quirk--a whipping up of the tone at the close of some phrases--which only an artist like Figueras could pull off. And Savall and soloists accompany on various instruments--flute, harp, viols, etc.--with pianist Paul Badura-Skoda playing on three of the lullabies. The CD is a wonderful tour of the world through the centuries with only one subject in mind: sleep. And sleep is something, after all, that takes up a third of our lives. This CD keeps getting sweeter the more you listen. Recommended. --Robert Levine

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars An exquisite gem of a desert island CD.......2005-06-09

Every time I catch sight of a Vox Alia CD with its distinctive packaging I find resistance is futile and I end up buying it. This gorgeous collection of lullabies delivered much more than I had ever dreamt possible.

What gives this CD its magic is the fact that this is music making amongst friends and family. In fact the record label is Jordi Savall's own, Monserat Figueras is his wife, and Arianna Savall his daughter - so it really is an all family affair. The whole of Hesperion XXI play like they know each other intimately and we are just privileged eavesdroppers who were lucky enough to have overheard them. If some of the major record labels are increasingly marketing their music like MacDonalds hamburgers then this is like being invited to dine at a lovely family run Spanish restaurant. There is a heartwarming homeliness here the majors could never emulate in a hundred years. So it is entirely appropriate that this should be a collection of lullabies, for this is a celebration of family intimacy of the most deeply poetic and affectionate kind.

The selection of music might strike a casual listener as being unusual - exotic is a better term - yet they are all so instantly attractive that I think this would make a lovely gift (especially given the beautiful booklet that comes with it) to a child, a mother, a partner, a friend, a music lover; even people who know nothing about the composers here would surely be enchanted. I was particularly delighted by the reviewer who wrote that her daughter listened to this at night - oh, how fortunate it would be to grow up with music like this with its imaginatively chosen collection of music from so many countries and centuries - you would carry this music in your heart for the rest of your life! Amongst the songs is a Greek song, a Catalan song, a 16th century English song, a song by William Byrd, Max Reger, Moussorgsky as well as two by Arvo Part, both of which carry dedications to Monserat Figueras, Arianna and Jordi Savall (in the photograph reproductions of the first pages of the handwritten score Arvo Part has written in German 'gewidmet an...' if you were wondering where this info comes from).

Typical of the CD is how difficult it is to hold back a tear listening to Reger of all composers - I would have never thought it possible, especially when it would have been simply all too easy to choose some all to well known Schubert Lied, but here it is, they have picked Reger and it is PERFECT. Yet that is only one gem amongst so many more here. I am speechless, for this CD is indeed a rare treasure made for people who truly love beautiful music making - a CD to cherish and to weep for joy over.

I should add that as usual from Vox Alia the recorded sound is audiophile quality, and a notch above what you get from about 95% of record labels. In my opinion they even surpass some boutique audiophile labels like Linn, which is really saying something. So if you love to luxuriate in rich sound this will fit like a glove.

If you fall in love with this recording please, please may I suggest you BUY it for someone you love, rather than burning it, just as a way of saying 'thank you' to this family of musicians. This is a family run label rather than some huge impersonal coorporation and I have seen too many private boutique record firms go bust over the years, so please help ensure that these artists continue to make lovely recordings such as this one.

I am adding this CD to my desert island collection.

5 out of 5 stars Sweeping, seductive, and superlative!.......2004-01-14

Figueras offers the listener a triumphant collection of evocative songs. Let's dispense with a possible concern. This CD is sub-titled "Lullabies". Anyone going to sleep listening to Figueras should see either a hearing or a brain specialist. While they may pacify children, adult listeners will be exhilarated by the sweeping range of her voice and exquisite presentation. Figueras' expressive style simply transcends descriptive praise. From soaring appeals to the heavens to quiet, soothing reassurances, she demonstrates the magnitude of her evocative skills. One can sense constrained passion in each song as she moves from one culture to another through the collection. That one of the pieces was commissioned for this collection is further proof of the extent she provides the listener - she's not confined to neither time nor place.

What is most clearly manifest in this musical anthology is Figueras' professionalism and her Catalan background. Unlike the operatic divas who have deigned to release popular renditions, she demonstrates how someone who truly understands the music of mountain villages or plains communities in any nation can elevate even the most "common" music. The selections range over five centuries or more, reinforcing the impression that nothing exceeds the capacity of her elegant voice to convey feeling to the enraptured listener. Each of us will likely settle on a favourite selection. Predictably, my own is a Catalan piece of an anonymous composer. Perhaps because the lullaby is in her native tongue, the richness of Figueras' rendition evokes intense emotional response. Would that i'd been born a Catalan!

Alia Vox was launched to give fresh impetus to the recordings of Figueras, her husband Jordi Savall and the groups they have created together. This CD will remain a testimony to their efforts to produce the highest quality discs. The sound is excellent, clearly imparting voice and background instruments alike. With 18 selections from a variety of eras and locations, the notes for this CD are extensive. The text of each tune is given in the original and seven other languages. Could scholarship and the universality of music be given finer endorsement? [stephen a. haines - Ottawa, Canada]

5 out of 5 stars Mesmerizing music for the heart.......2003-10-18

Rarely has there been a more beautiful collection of lullabies than those presented in Ninna Nanna. Clearly a labour of love of Montserrat Figueras and her family, it brings together songs that mothers have been singing to their infants over the centuries - whatever their culture or language. "It is like food for the young child" reflects Montserrat Figueras in her dedication, the most intense reflection of affection and tenderness.

Lullabies in this collection, come from cultural backgrounds as diverse as Russia, Morocco, Greece, England and, of course, the Iberian Peninsula. They span from the Renaissance to contemporary music. Most of the musical versions have been masterly arranged by Jordi Savall, suited to fit the extraordinary voice of his wife. We also find some arrangements by well-known composers such as Moussorgski, Reger or de Falla.

Being lullabies, the songs show similarities: above all their tunes are beautifully soft and melodious. Yet, the tunes show considerable diversity in rhythm and tonality. Some are melancholy and almost haunting, others joyful and jubilant. Montserrat Figueras' voice is, as always, in a class of her own, radiating with richness and intensity. The music touches the deeper cords in the listener's consciousness. Her voice is superbly and sensitively accompanied by Hesperion XXI, the accomplished team of musicians under the leadership of Jordi Savall.

The informative booklet accompanying the CD is well presented and includes the songs' texts in eight languages, including the original. This is a CD you will not get tired to listen to many times, whether you play it for your children, your family and friends, or just for yourself. [Friederike Knabe, Ottawa, Canada]

5 out of 5 stars La Ninna Nanna.......2003-08-17

Very few times in life we can be transported back to share such deep experiences as that of holding a child in your arms while singing a lullaby. This CD is exceptional not only because of the high quality of the production but also by the deep emotions that each song carries. A true gift for all those of us that need to stop and enjoy a moment of peace!

5 out of 5 stars "Stunningly beautiful" is an understatement.......2003-05-31

I bought this as a gift for our daughter, and it works great; but I also can't stop listening to it myself day and night, having nothing to do with her bedtime and nap times. If one wants to go to sleep, it works beautifully for that; or if one wants to stay up and pay attention to every wonderful nuance, it also works for that. Or if it's just on as background music, it changes any room to a place of comfort and home. Montserrat Figueras here sings in at least twelve different languages, in music spanning 500 years, and puts it all across with heartfelt directness. What more difficult musical task could there be than all the above, together? But she does it.

This disc is really a family affair: Figueras and Savall, plus their daughter who also sings and plays, and their son who took the photos; plus their friends and colleagues, among the most imaginative and soulful players alive. Extraordinary. And the new music composed by Arvo Part for this album: it's proof that music can objectively make a person weep.

And the booklet: a gorgeous presentation with full background information, photos of the sessions, and each song is given in translation to eight or nine languages! (The original, plus eight more translations if different.)

The only thing you can't do is play this in the car, while driving around to lull the child with the motion. Oh, that works great for the child, but it's the driver's concentration we should be worried about. There is no way to keep one's mind safely on the road while this CD is on.

I rarely give a "five star" rating to anything, but this is one of those times.
A La Carte - Short Works for Winds
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Really Glad I bought this CD
  • Excellent!
 A La Carte - Short Works for Winds
Percy Grainger , Darius Milhaud , Vincent Persichetti , Nino Rota , Gunther Schuller , Joseph Turrin , and Borealis Wind Quintet
Manufacturer: MSR Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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All Works by SchullerAll Works by Schuller | Schuller, Gunther | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
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ASIN: B0009KBTRY
Release Date: 2005-08-16

Tracks:

  1. Rota: Petite Offrande Musicale
  2. Farkas: Hungarian Dances
  3. Farkas: Hungarian Dances
  4. Farkas: Hungarian Dances
  5. Farkas: Hungarian Dances
  6. Farkas: Hungarian Dances
  7. Beach: Pastorale
  8. Schuller: Suite
  9. Schuller: Suite
  10. Schuller: Suite
  11. Grainger: Walking Tune
  12. Turrin: Three Summer Dances
  13. Turrin: Three Summer Dances
  14. Turrin: Three Summer Dances
  15. Persichetti: Pastoral
  16. Milhaud: La Cheminee du Roi Rene
  17. Milhaud: La Cheminee du Roi Rene
  18. Milhaud: La Cheminee du Roi Rene
  19. Milhaud: La Cheminee du Roi Rene
  20. Milhaud: La Cheminee du Roi Rene
  21. Milhaud: La Cheminee du Roi Rene
  22. Milhaud: La Cheminee du Roi Rene
  23. Briccialdi: Potpourri Fantastico

Product Description

Through our years of touring and performing, one of our biggest challenges has been concert programming-finding, rehearsing & presenting works that we and our audiences will find stimulating, enjoyable and entertaining. While we are always on the lookout for larger, substantial works, we inevitably come across smaller pieces that capture our imagination, little gems we feel deserve exposure. We have included these pieces in our performances to give our listeners a respite, a breather from the more challenging works inherent in the wind repertoire. This CD is a collection of some our most-played, most-requested, most-enjoyed shorter works. It is our hope that you will enjoy these pieces as much as we have over the years.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Really Glad I bought this CD.......2006-03-11

I'm just getting into classical music at the tender age of 41 so I'm far from an expert here. Like another reviewer I heard about this CD (which had been nominated for a grammy) on NPR. It sounded interesting so I decided to buy it. And I'm really glad I did! The music is lively & playful in some parts and gentle & soothing in others. It makes perfect background music when I'm working. And the music sounds simply wonderful coming out of my new iPod Hi-Fi!

5 out of 5 stars Excellent!.......2006-02-22

I discovered this work while listening to NPR and could not wait to own it.

A wonderful CD, a MUST HAVE.....my ipod is smiling;-)
Milhaud: La Création du monde; Le boeuf sur le toit; Suite provençale
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Duplicate If You Must--This CD Is for Every Fan of Milhaud
  • A Varied Collection of Modern French Classical Music
 Milhaud: La Création du monde; Le boeuf sur le toit; Suite provençale

Manufacturer: Naxos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B0009JMEJ2
Release Date: 2005-06-21

Tracks:

  1. La Creation Du Monde, Op.81a - Orchestre National De Lille-Region Nord/Pas-De Calais
  2. Le Boeuf Sur Le Toit, Op.58 - Orchestre National De Lille-Region Nord/Pas-De Calais
  3. I. Anime - Orchestre National De Lille-Region Nord/Pas-De Calais
  4. II. Tres Modere - Orchestre National De Lille-Region Nord/Pas-De Calais
  5. III. Modere - Orchestre National De Lille-Region Nord/Pas-De Calais
  6. IV. Vif - Orchestre National De Lille-Region Nord/Pas-De Calais
  7. V. Modere - Orchestre National De Lille-Region Nord/Pas-De Calais
  8. VI. Vif - Orchestre National De Lille-Region Nord/Pas-De Calais
  9. VII. Lent - Orchestre National De Lille-Region Nord/Pas-De Calais
  10. VIII. Vif - Orchestre National De Lille-Region Nord/Pas-De Calais
  11. I. Scene I - Bernard Deletre
  12. II. Appartion De Al Lune - Bernard Deletre
  13. III. L'Homme Endormi Et Le Fantome De La Femme Morte - Bernard Deletre
  14. IV. L'Homme Qui Dort Debout, Oscillant Comme Dans Un Courant - Bernard Deletre
  15. V. Toutes Les Choses De La Foret Qui Viennent Voir L'Homme Endormi - Bernard Deletre
  16. VI. Danse De La Passion - Bernard Deletre
  17. VII. Reapparition Del La Femme Qui Entraine L'Homme Peu A Peu En Tournant Lentement Devant Lui Sur Elle-mme - Bernard Deletre
  18. La Lune I A Disparu La Premiere, La Lune II Disparait A Son Tour. Les Heures Noires Se Sont Ecoulees. On Voit Apparaitre Les Premieres Heures Blanches - Bernard Deletre

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Duplicate If You Must--This CD Is for Every Fan of Milhaud.......2005-12-23

Here we have three of Milhaud's greatest hits and one that should be, all in performances that are as fine as any I've heard. "La Creation" gets a really all-stops-pulled-out reading, with the Lille musicians tossing around more hot licks than I've heard except perhaps on Bernstein's old EMI recording. Just about any French conductor should be able to turn in a lively rendition of "Le Boeuf," yet this one sparkles in a very special way. And I like Casadesus' "Suite provencale" even more than Charles Munch's (on RCA), which I thought was just about perfect.

One thing that the current recording has going for it is just about the best sound that's ever been accorded these popular works. Maybe it's the venue, the Auditorium du Noveau Siecle in Lille, or maybe it's Mike Clements, one of today's finest sound engineers. Maybe it's a special kind of synergy. Anyhow, this is a fabulous-sounding disc.

Finally, there is "L'homme et son desir." I don't know whether to call this a poor-man's "Les Noces" (Stravinsky) or a rich-man's "Ballet Mechanique" (Antheil), but whatever, it is one of Milhaud's most unusual and beguiling creations, replete with a weird vocalise for four soloists and huge percussion section featuring a whip and a police whistle! The piece is available in what might be a considered a definitive performance by the composer himself, except this one from Casadesus is every bit as good, if not a little livelier, and of course it is in up-to-the-minute sound. So as I say, even if you'll be getting your third (or fourth) version of "La Creation du monde," don't miss this very special CD.

5 out of 5 stars A Varied Collection of Modern French Classical Music.......2005-10-05


Composer Darius Milhaud's music is not always easy to describe. He is influenced by the legacy of classical composers from his native France which forms the basic framework of his music. He was also influenced by trends in classical music by other composers who were his contemporaries as well as by the jazz movement. Some of his music also has a Latin/Brazilian feel to it which means that you're never quite sure oaf what you'll hear when it comes to Milhaud's music but one thing is certain, it may be a bit challenging but it will be enjoyable.

This disc from Naxos contains four pieces from the Milhaud catalogue. The first piece is "La Creation du Monde" which the liner notes states is Milhaud's best known work though I would believe that at least to American audiences, the familiar Brazilian strains of "Le Boeuf sur le Toit" would have that distinction. "La Creation" is a combination of French classical and jazz and was originally a ballet. "Le Boeuf" has a Brazilian and jazz feel to it and was originally written as a background piece for a silent film. "Suite Provencale" would be the most traditional work of the set and his "L'Homme et son Desir" would for orchestra and wordless voices would be his most experimental.

The Orchestre National de Lille seems at home with Milhaud's music. They accept the challenges posed by pieces such as "La Creation" and "L'Homme,' play "Suite Provencale" in a robust manner and have fun with "La Boeuf." Conductor Jean-Claude Casadesus seems to not gusty be familiar with the scores but as respect for the composer as well as his interpretations show. Naxos also has to be credited for providing a disc of not so familiar music so that listeners can get to know the music of an important 20th century composer.

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