Casa [Import]

Product Description
This album is a tribute and dedicated to the spirit of Antonia Carlos Jobim. Three musicians, Sakamoto on piano, Jaques Morelenbaum on cello and vocals by Paula Morlenbaum. Recorded at the house of Jobim in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil. The packaging and design for this CD are as beautiful as the music presented. 2001.

Tracks:

As Praias Desertas
O Amor em Paz
Vivo Sonhando-Dreamer
Inutil Paisagem
Sabia
Chanson pour Michele
Bonita
Fotografia-Photograph
Imagina
Estrada Branca
O Grande Amor
Cancao em modo menor
Tema para Ana
Derradeira Primavera
Esperanca perdida-I Was Just One More For You
Sem Voce Album Version
Samba Da Aviao
Improvisation (Live)

Amazon.com

"Casa" is the Portuguese word for "house." It's also the title of this melodic and moving tribute to Antonio Carlos Jobim by the Oscar® and Grammy award-winning pianist-composer Ryuichi Sakamoto, Brazilian cellist Jaques Morelenbaum, and his vocalist wife, Paula. The Morelenbaums, who cofounded Quarteto Jobim-Morelenbaum, both worked with the maestro, and almost all of the tracks here were recorded in Jobim's Rio home. The CD contains fluid and florid renditions of bossa nova-era classics from the Jobim canon, from "Amor em Paz"--with Jobim's son Paulo on guitar--and "Bonita" to "Vivo Sonhando." It also unveils rare songs like "Chanson pour Michelle," a short and sweet composition written for a soap opera, and a never-before-heard work, "Tema para Ana," an intimate piano/cello duet. Sakamoto's spare and splendid pianisms ring from Jobim's piano. Morelenbaum's singing cello tones complement his wife's angelic Portuguese and English vocals. Together this talented trio--with occasional accompaniment by percussionist Marcos Suzano, guitarist Luiz Brasil, vocalist Ed Motta, and bassist Zeca Assumpçao--beautifully exposes the French influences of Satie, Ravel, and Chopin in Jobim's music. --Eugene Holley, Jr.

Customer Reviews:

Celestial music - .......2007-05-07

My Profile: 43 yo - no music qualifications whatsoever-

I got this fine cd last year in my first time in Buenos Aires.. though my trip was for widenning my musical horizons.. what can I said that has not been adequately commented by more knowledable reviewers than I?.. the music is serene, celestial, non-strident...he piano, the cello and that voice!! you know you are prividledged in life to have a chance to comtemplate on this type of beauty... whatever scars we have in the soul and body, take a moment to soothe yourself..

Gentle Magic to Free Your Soul.......2007-03-28

I just love love love this CD. Everything about it is so artfully rendered, it takes my soul away to gently float free in a most beautiful place. Ms. Morelenbaun has a voice that, of all female vocals in the world, is often my most favorite to hear. Virtually no vibrato, just clean and clear exquisite and delicate classic femininity. Mr. Morelenbaum, Mr. Sakamoto and all supporting musicians provide the most sensitively interwoven instrumental skills that there could ever be; they perfectly ride, complement and contribute to the magical musical moment that is always now, in flowing pieces such as these. Of course, the ineffably beautiful heart and soul of the basic songs to start with are indispensible (thank you now and forever, o-most revered JC Jobim!). Honestly, this CD places in my top 10 of all time, especially now, in my more relaxed and gentle mature years... ;)

Some of the Best Music ever!.......2007-02-03

I came by the Morelenbaums by 'A Day in New york'. It was love at first
sound. I checked out to see if anything else was available. I found 'Casa'
and immediately ordered it. It has been in my CD player since I got it.
This from a Classical music buff and a college music degree. This music
defies description (I do like bossa nova and Jobim especially). This group is so together, it sounds like the members know exactly what each
other is thinking. It is all so right that it appears precision and class
like this is not possible. Paula's voice has a simple (without vibrato) beauty that is mesmerizing. The arrangements are exquisite. The Cello and piano never over-do and the whole is something you must hear to believe. I can only add to this - GET IT!!

jazzman.......2007-01-17

Absolutely fabulous renditions of Jobim. Paula's voice is so pure and
gentle, along with Jacques' cello gliding through the sketches. And the
pianist Sakamoto is perfect as well. I just love this cd. I quickly
obtained their other Jobim tribute cd "A Day in New York" (the Japanese
enhanced version with 5 bonus tracks), which is even further proof that
there is a musical heaven on earth. So sophistocated, cool, and gentle.
I eagerly await their next release. 5 million stars.

absolutely amazing...........2006-01-16

So much to say about this wonderful recording. As I write this, there are 27 reviews posted for Casa and not one of them is less than 4 stars, with the vast majority as 5 stars. That speaks volumes in itself. But the quality of the words and the thought behind them is truly a tribute to Jobim. If we were all lucky enough to have him with us now, the words of these reviews would surely either make him smile or bring tears of joy to his eyes. This truly is music that soothes...reflects...and makes us all appreciate either finding it or being introduced to it by someone. Introduce only your best friends to this, those that would appreciate it as much as you and I do.

Average customer rating:

mano! negra! ya! ya! ya!
EXCELLENT!!!
Good to see everyone speaks so highly of this CD.
Man, You should give this album a Chance
Creeme, es increible

Casa Babylon
Mano Negra
Manufacturer: EMI Latin
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Proxima Estación: Esperanza
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ASIN: B000005MZW
Release Date: 2002-06-18

Tracks:

Viva Zapata
Casa Babylon
The Monkey
Senor Matanza
Santa Maradona (Larchuma Football Club)
Super Chango
Bala Perdida
Machine Gun
El Alakran
Mama Perfecta
Love And Hate
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Album Details

Fusionning Trash Rock and Latin Music, They Became France's Biggest Alternative Rock Band in the Late 80's / Early 90's.

Customer Reviews:

mano! negra! ya! ya! ya!.......2007-01-30

The final and most mature effort from Mano Negra, basically driven by Manu Chao before he went solo and ironic for that fact since it is so much more rock and electronic than his subsequent solo work. Mano Negra were a great, interesting, rocking band that were entertaining as well as thought-provoking. Some people have called them 'the latin Clash' and there are definitely similarities although the Mano Negra were obviously on the scene a little later. A great album for fans, but as others have noted, maybe Puta's Fever would be a better initiation to the band.

EXCELLENT!!!.......2006-04-12

This is a mix of rithms and thoughs between Eurpoe and Latinamerica. This work reflects the reaility of LatinAmerica through songs like Senor Matanza. Excellent Job!

Good to see everyone speaks so highly of this CD........2005-12-07

Good to see everyone speaks so highly of this CD.

What can you say about Mano Negra that has not been said? This CD is one of the best top 10 Castellano rock albums of all times. How do I know this? Well besides being from Buenos Aires I have traveled Latin America and España all my life and this CD is always in any hip rock bar's jukebox from Argentina to Mexico. It's true + what Manu did with Clandestino, etc... set this cd into eternal immortality. Rock, rap, reggae, Caribbean sounds, punk, English, Castellano, French (+ you start to notice Manu playing around with the sounds bites from TV and radio on this album) Buy it and you will not be disappointed. Amazon has all from Manu and Mano Negra on here which you should check out. Look for the Bolivian mountain sessions on MP3 Download sites, also has a rare Mano Negra appearance at a French prison early 90's. " 2 de la tarde 28 minutos con radio recuerdos...tu suerte merece un chance...._" Arturo

Man, You should give this album a Chance.......2005-07-24

I MEAN IT. I WASN'T SURE TO BUY THIS ALBUM BECAUSE I WASN`T SURE IT WAS MY STYLE YOU KNOW, I WAS (AND AM) INTO SONIC YOUTH, DEAD KENNEDYS, KYUSS, HENDRIX, FUNKADELIC AND THE MARS VOLTA, BUT I BOUGHT IT A FEW MONTHS AGO AND IT IS MIND BLOWING. YOU CAN`T DOWNLOAD JUST "SOME SONGS" BECAUSE THIS ALBUM IS ALMOST A CONCEPT ALBUM, YOU GOTTA HEAR IT THE WHOLE WAY THROUGH. I DON`T GIVE A XX@@Â€ ABOUT THE VARIETY OF STYLES, I REALLY DIG IT BEACAUSE OF THE VERY CORE OF MUSIC ITSELF. ENERGY, PASSION, FIRE. YOU`LL NEVER GONNA GET TIRED OF THIS CD. NOW, I MEAN IT.

Creeme, es increible.......2005-03-01

La primera vez que oi la voz de Manu (el cantador) fue en mi clase de espanol hace dos anos. Inmediatamente compre su disco solo "Clandestino" y lo amaba mucho. Por eso compre Casa Babylon, y ahora es uno de mis discos favoritos. Los ritmos son perfectos para las personas que les gusta bailar (como yo) y las letras tambien son muy buenas. Dos canciones son lentas e increibles, muy poderosas: "mama perfecta" y "sueno de solentiname," y las otras canciones son mas rapidas y igualmente fantasticas. A mi parece muy sofisticada, y hay muchisimos sonidos diferentes aunque el disco es muy unido. Otros grupos/artistas que me encantan: The Beatles, The Greatful Dead, Led Zeppelin, John Coltrane, Miles Davis, The Allman Brothers, y otros grupos americanos de los 60s y 70s (musica "hippie"). (lo siento por mi espanol ojala que no sea terrible)

The first time I heard Manu's voice was in my spanish class two years ago. I immediately bought his solo cd, Clandestino, and i loved it, so I bought "Casa Babylon" and now it's one of my favorite CDs. The rhythms are perfect for people who like to dance (like me) and the words are also really good. Two songs are slow and incredible, very powerful: "mama perfecta" and "sueno de solentiname" and the other songs are faster and just as fantastic. It seems very sophisticated and there are a lot of different sounds although the disc is very united. Other bands/artists I like: The Beatles, The Greatful Dead, Led Zeppelin, John Coltrane, Miles Davis, The Allman Brothers, and other American groups from the 60s and 70s ('hippie' music).

Average customer rating:

Crossover works!
One of my favourite Bossa Nova album
Great CD for Relaxing
A Sophisticated Album

A Day in New York
Morelenbaum2/Sakamoto
Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Morelenbaum (2)/Sakamoto: Casa (Tribute to Jobim)
Berimbaum
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Chasm
Elis & Tom

ASIN: B00009ATJC
Release Date: 2003-05-27

Tracks:

Desafinado
Bim Bom
Insensatez
Coracao Vagabundo
Falando De Amor
Chora Coracao
Sabia
Tango (Versao Em Portugues)
Chega De Saudade
Samba Do Aviao
Fototografia

Amazon.com

The second chapter of Morelenbaum2/Sakamoto, A Day In New York picks up where the trio's moody and elegant 2002 debut, Casa, left off and broadens the vision. Rather than covering a broad spectrum of Antonio Carlos Jobim's compositions while stressing lesser-known material, as it did on the debut, Morelenbaum2/Sakamoto does five more Jobim tunes and three songs from other composers as well as three new versions of songs that also appeared on Casa. The playing on this session (a studio date tacked to the end of a tour) is a little more upbeat than the moody debut. Nonetheless, the music is again absolutely stunning thanks to additional help from guitarist Luiz Brasil and percussionist Marcelo Costa. Highlights here include classics "Desafinado" and Joao Gilberto's "Bim Bom" and "Insensitez," all of which couldn't have been done better. Filled with yearning romance, sentimental playing, and the tasteful restraint of classic bossa nova, A Day In New York is a fine follow-up to an excellent debut. --Tad Hendrickson

Customer Reviews:

Crossover works!.......2007-04-02

Two superb concert musicians playing the best of traditional Brasilian
pop-- Tom Jobim-- but in a serious manner!. Combine this with a woman whose voice would make Astrud Gilberto green with envy and you have some first rate "Thinking man's (or woman's)" music. This is creativity at its best!
Listen, read a book, WRITE a book, make love; it's the perfect background.

If you like Heavy Metal, I'd suggest you go to the junkyard and hang out with the rottweilwers.

One of my favourite Bossa Nova album.......2004-04-18

I have more than 20 titles of Bossa Nova music, from Jobim's play to Ono Lisa. This title "Day in New York" is one of my favourite. I suggest all Bossa Nova lovers should have this one. The most impressive paly is "Chega de Saudade", the best version I've ever heard. The whole feeling is just right! Very wild and sexy singer and players.

Great CD for Relaxing.......2003-08-08

I bought this CD about 2 days ago and I love it! I purchased this one a few months after thoroughly enjoy their first release "Casa." Unlike "Casa," this one is recorded live. Believe it or not, I'm enjoying their CD's more than the Antonio Jobim CD's I have in my collection!

A Sophisticated Album.......2003-07-16

The Morelenbaums, part of Tom Jobim's musical "family" have done an excellent job once again of proving that his music, some of it now almost 50 years old, is indeed timeless. Jobim's elegant and intricate melodies, combined with Vinícius de Moraes' poetic lyrics keep this music a strong statement of the seductive music Brasil has offered to the world. The brilliant addition of Ryuichi Sakamoto makes this group shine. Reading the liner notes, it would appear that this album was almost an afterthought to the tour-ending of the remarkable previous album by this group, "Casa". What a treat then that the recording was even made! "A Day In New York" is very similiar to "Casa" with a live feel to it and includes, in addition to the Jobim/de Moraes songs, one of João Gilberto's early, fun compositions *Bim Bom* and a haunting song *Coração Vagabundo* (Vagabond Heart) by the superb singer, songwriter etc., etc., Caetano Veloso, as well as a truly gorgeous new song composed, it seems, by the Morelenbaums, Sakamoto and T. Onuki called *Tango*. This song as well as all the others, is superbly sung by the beautiful voice of Paula Morelenbaum. No wonder Jobim wanted her to sing his melodies. She has the gift of being able to sing the "saudade" that is so prevelant in his music, perfectly, and has a crystal clear, sensual voice on these songs. The cello of Jaques Morelenbaum is, as always, achingly beautiful and the piano sound of Sakamoto is eerily like that of Jobim himself. The inclusion of the great guitarist, Luiz Brasil and Marcelo Costa at percussion puts this album over the top. My favorite song on the album? The heart-rending *Chora Coração* by Jobim and de Moraes. Jaques Morelenbaum says in the notes that it is "saddest song that could ever be composed". I would have to agree. Beautiful. This would make a wonderful companion album to "Casa". Here's hoping the Morelenbaums will continue to shine the Jobim light for many more years to come.

Average customer rating:

Very Bad
Different is not always bad!
Pay special attention to this new promise !
A tenor who wishes he were a baritone
Finally, a SPINTO tenor!!!

Jose Cura - Puccini Arias / Domingo
Giacomo Puccini , London Philharmonia Orchestra , Plácido Domingo , and Jose Cura
Manufacturer: Erato
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Turandot (Act I): Non piangere Liu!
Gianni Schicchi: Avete torto! - Firenze ome un albero fiorito
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Il Tabarro: Io voglio la tua bocca - Folle di gelosia
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La Rondine (ActIII): Dimmi che vuoi seguirmi
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La Fanciulla del West (Act III): Risparmiate lo scherno - Ch'ella mi creda
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Madame Butterfly (Act III): Addio fiorito asil
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Tosca (Act III): E lucevan le stelle
La Boh (Act I): Che gelida manina
Manon Lescaut (Act I): Tra voi, belle
Manon Lescaut (Act I): Donna non vidi mai
Manon Lescaut (Act II): Ah, Manon mi tradisce
Manon Lescaut (Act III): Ah! non v'avvicinate! - No, pazzo son
Manon Lescaut (Act IV): Manon...senti, amor mio - Vedi, son io che piango
Edgar (Act II): Orgia, chimera dall'occhio vitreo
Le Villi (Act II): Ecco la casa - Torna ai felici di

Amazon.com essential recording

Good tenors are always in short supply, a particularly lamentable circumstance given the great demand for them in the operatic and symphonic repertoire. Thus, the advent of a good young tenor is always cause for rejoicing. A tenor of the caliber of Jose Cura--a composer, conductor and guitarist as well as a singer--is really good news. There is nothing wimpy about Cura's singing, nothing strained; he sings with baritonal beef and strong, chesty high notes. A protege of Placido Domingo, he shares some qualities with the older tenor, but is definitely an artist with something to say for himself. This is a career to watch. --Sarah Bryan Miller

Customer Reviews:

Very Bad.......2007-03-29

First of all, his voice does not suit for Puccini(I do not know what is fitting for him). If you buy this cd, you may listen the worst "Non piangere liu" "E Lucevan Stella" etc. He can not bring a little emotion. But Puccini demands it.

Different is not always bad!.......2006-11-26

It's very interesting to read all the reviews smashing Jose Cura for his "baritone-like" voice and supposed stiff and unvaried interpretation. The first opera I ever saw was The Washington Opera's 1997 production of Samson et Dalila (I was 13) with Jose Cura and Denyce Graves. Immediately I was converted into an opera lover! (specifically an opera-goer-lover) I don't necessarily like listening to all opera, and a lot of singer's voices still annoy me, but Jose Cura's voice is different (the source of much of the controversy...). The richness and deep quality of his voice that so contrasts with most tenor's voices (which can be rather squeaky at times) is what attracts me. And you should see this man act! A refreshing experience against the stereotypical stiff opera singer standing in the middle of the stage bellowing his/her lungs out. So please, try to actually see the man before you form an unshakeable opinion. I think his voice alone is gorgeous (especially with Puccini's incomparable work!), but pared with his charisma and ability on stage, it's irresistable.

Pay special attention to this new promise !.......2006-06-30

A talented artist, a potent and polished voice emerges to satisfy the Opera lovers all over the world.

Jose Cura is nowadays, one the most prominent figures of the Bel Canto. His charismatic presence and his timber have deserved him the best praises all over the world.

In this opportunity we may listen him singing a selection of Puccini's Arias, accompanied by Placido Domingo with the Philharmonia orchestra, a magnificent occasion to enjoy his art and impeccable timber.

A tenor who wishes he were a baritone.......2005-12-14

I bought this CD because I love Puccini above all other composers, due to the sheer emotion that he could put into his music. I also wanted to hear Placido Domingo conduct and I'm always on the lookout for a good tenor. However, this is not the CD to buy if you're looking for a good tenor. I can't help but agree with the reviewer who gave only one star, at first Jose Cura sounds great. But after I really listened I had to change my opinion. Cura sings ridiculously heavy to be a tenor. If you listen to him with the mindset that this is a tenor it's really laughable how heavy and pressed his voice is. I was reminded of Placido Domingo (Ugh) or Franco Corelli who also depressed his larynx giving him a very baritonal sound but by the time he was in his forties, when most voices really blossom, his was declining do to the tremendous weight he sang with. Cura scoops up even to middle register notes because he is unable to start on the pitch, and has one tone to his voice (except when he goes bellow mezzo forte when he has almost no control) and very little in the way of vocal expression due to the restrictions this weight puts on the voice. Now don't get me wrong, I'm not usually an opera snob (I listen to and love Josh Groban, Russel Watson, and Andrea Bocelli), but Cura truly warranted a review. I gave it two stars because I didn't think Placido did a bad job at conducting (not the best by any means but certainly not bad) and despite everything I just said, I really like Cura's performance of Nessun Dorma (I don't get why it's weak).

Finally, a SPINTO tenor!!!.......2005-10-14

I am SO happy that there is finally a tenor out there with the vocal power to sing over a Puccini orchestra but still keep the lyricism for the upper register! If your preference is for a sweeter, lighter sound, check out recordings of Carlo Bergonzi and Roberto Alagna. This is a voice meant for singing over large orchestras with some "muscle" in the low register and the ability to make high notes soar. (It also doesn't hurt that Sr. Cura is as gorgeous as his voice! :) )

Average customer rating:

Profound Words, Beautiful Music, Awesome Worship!!!!
One word to describe/"Beautiful!"
awesome!

Jesus Adrian Romero El Aire De Tu Casa

Manufacturer: Vastago
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD
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Product Description

1. El aire de tu casa 2. Mi universo 3. Esperame 4. Aqui estoy 5. No es como yo 6. Mi corazon te canta 7. Te veo 8. Mi herencia 9. Me dici que me ama 10.Es por tu gracia 11.De ti dependo 12.Pegao a ti

Customer Reviews:

Profound Words, Beautiful Music, Awesome Worship!!!!.......2007-04-04

This is one of the most beautiful Spanish CD's I've heard. The words are so profound! What a psalmist!!! I use it to start my day with the Lord and it takes me right into His presence. Each song has it's own message relating to the different aspect of our relationship with the Lord. I highly, highly recommended!!!!

One word to describe/"Beautiful!".......2006-07-05

This album is without a doubt his best since "Cerca de Ti",beautiful poems set to music make this album a must have,period!Most of the songs are ballads,Jesus Adrian Romero definatly has a way with melody and wisely chooses to record songs, that are actually songs and not just choruses repeated endlessly like many of his contemporarys."Esperame" is a gorgeous ballad that will stay in your head for days,"Mi Universo" will do the same and so will many others from this project.This album is like discovering a hidden treasure chest,spiritual treasure that is,I highly recomend it....enjoy!

awesome!.......2006-02-09

Perhaps his best disc yet. A lot of acoustic, mellow jams. Lyrics go down smooth! The guitar playing makes me think a little of Phil Keaggy. This album has been the only one in my car, mi casa, and my laptop for over a month!

Average customer rating:

One of Savall's finest
Nearly every night for 6 months!
Diáspora sefardí / Hespèrion XXI

Diáspora Sefardí

Manufacturer: Alia Vox Spain
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B00004RBWV
Release Date: 2000-03-14

Tracks:

El Moro De Antequera
Levantose El Conde Nino
El Rey De Francia
Por Alli Paso Un Cavallero
Por Que Llorax Blanca Nina
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Tracks:

Las Estrellas De Los Cielos
En La Santa Helena
A La Una Yo Naci
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Paxarico Tu Te Llamas
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Hermoza Muchachica
Axerico De Quinze Anos
Improvisacion Sobre 'Axerico'

Amazon.com essential recording

The Sephardic Jews, scattered through the world after their expulsion from Spain in 1492, kept alive for centuries not only their language, Ladino, but an extraordinary repertory of "folk" songs, many of them quite sophisticated. As Ladino culture began to slowly fade away over the course of the 20th century, musicologists collected and transcribed these melodies from Ladino-speaking communities in Sarajevo, Sofia, Salonika, Smyrna, Jerusalem, and other cities. Beginning in the 1970s, these extraordinary songs were revived (to considerable excitement) for concert audiences--a revival sparked in large part by a 1976 recording by Hesperion XX. This now-legendary early music ensemble, renamed Hesperion XXI for the new century, has returned to the music of the Sephardic Diaspora with this beautifully produced and packaged release. Disc 1 contains eight songs performed lovingly by the magnetic Montserrat Figueras (who sings with an appropriately unstudied tone). The second disc includes eight more melodies performed instrumentally; the choice of instruments reflects the influence of the Muslim-ruled areas where the Sephardim settled with the oud, rebab, and qanun (Middle Eastern equivalents of the lute, fiddle, and dulcimer) performing alongside harps, lutes, flutes, and frame drums. (Inexplicably, however, the final track of this second CD--an improvisation for the sarod and tabla--sounds nice but feels completely foreign to the theme of this release.) It may have been more effective programming to mingle the vocal and instrumental tracks across the two CDs rather than segregating them. --Matthew Westphal

Customer Reviews:

One of Savall's finest.......2004-05-19

Hespérion XXI (formerly Hespérion XX, but renamed to honour the new century) is one of the most accomplished ensembles specialising in the early music of the Iberian peninsula. It is one of the ongoing collectives led by the formidable Jordi Savall, renowned for his interpretations on the viol da gamba. The members are always changing, which makes the ensemble simply a name for a grouping of artists and interpreters of this immensely rich musical heritage, yet always under Savall's masterful direction. Diaspora Sefardi is a double-CD of music of the Sephardic Jews, a diverse culture originating in Spain and later settling in countries around the Mediterranean after their expulsion from most of Spain in 1492. Never losing sight of their basic identity as Jews or their awareness of their Spanish origins, the Sephardic culture gradually incorporated numerous influences from the peoples among whom it evolved: from the Arab culture of north Africa, from the Turks, Greeks, Bulgarians, Rumanians, Serbocroats, etc. In short, Sephardic music is an amazing blend of all these influences, immediately recognisable for its unique manifestation of this diversity.

Led by the impeccable soprano Montserrat Figueras, a generous collection of sephardic romances resides on disc one, and ten instrumental pieces are found on disc two. Savall (performing on lira, viola and rebab) is joined by some virtuoso players here: Pedro Estevan on percussions, Yair Dalal on oud, Andrew Lawrence-King on arpa doppia, Pedro Memelsdorff on flutes, and a handful of others on psaltry, qanun, laud, sarod and medieval harp. This recording differs in kind from other interpretations (by Savall or by countless other interpreters of this music) in that it employs a more diverse instrumentation that lies beyond the standard western European grouping of percussion, viol, flutes and harps, and rather embraces the instrumentations of eastern influences of this music (oud, qanun, sarod, etc.).

Disc one, subtitled "Por que llorax blanca nina" (Why do you weep fair child?) is a selection of beautiful songs, mostly from 16th and 17th century documents, though all of them look back much earlier to a very old tradition of songs. Montserrat Figueras is full of vitality, her breathtaking voice and accomplished techniques show her complete mastery of this challenging material.

Disc two, "Las estrellas de los cielos" (The stars in the sky), is a diverse collection of instrumental pieces, interpreted and performed to perfection by this ensemble. This second disc is the real jewel here. Even in the complexity of rhythms, fostered by Pedro Estevan's challenging techniques, the rhythms are extremely accessible, allowing the listener to move around within the multifaceted and subtle instrumentations. Some are traditional dance pieces, while others more meditative reflections and variations on the music of the popular romances.

Listening to this music is always a rewarding enterprise. Full of surprises, it never provokes the same response twice. This release comes highly recommended for the curious listener. It comes beautifully packaged with lyrics and an informative essay by Paloma Diaz-Mas.

Nearly every night for 6 months!.......2003-05-01

After owning this CD for about 4 years, when my newborn daughter needed bedtime soothing I grabbed this (the 2nd CD). We listen to it nearly every night and I am never bored with it. It only bothers me a little when I find it getting stuck in my head during the day. I still enjoy sitting in the dark listening to it after 6 months. Beautiful moving music.

Diáspora sefardí / Hespèrion XXI.......2000-11-13

En este disco Jordi Savall y su grupo retoman el trabajo que emprendieron en discos anteriores sobre la música de origen judío ("Secular music from christian and jewish Spain" y los dedicados a la Sibila). El primer disco está compuesto por obras vocales que pertenecen a distintas expresiones de la diáspora judía a través de Europa, pero todas en ladino (lengua de los sefarditas o judíos españoles), interpretadas con una gran variedad de instrumentos (percusiones, flauta dulce, salterio, arpa, laúdes, etc.) sobre las que se alza la voz de Monserrat Figueras, que maneja bastante bien el estilo y el dramatismo requeridos, a pesar de que a mi juicio su interpretación es poco variada, y no se distingue tanto de sus versiones de música barroca italiana, por ej. El segundo disco trae sólo obras instrumentales, en las que se da un mayor espacio a la improvisación y la ornamentación, lo que considero bastante pertinente pare este tipo de música, y que realmente está muy bien lograda en este caso, permitiendo trabajar toda suerte de matices (el uso del aire por parte del flautista Pedro Memmelsdorff, por ejemplo). En todo caso, es necesario señalar que éste es un disco muy fresco, donde realmente se percibe un compromiso emotivo de los músicos con las obras, que pertenecen a un repertorio bastante poco trabajado en el campo de la música antigua, y sobre el cual todavía debe quedar mucho por investigar.

Cecilia Bartoli - An Italian Songbook (Bellini, Donizetti, Rossini)

Average customer rating:

Lovely rendition of Italian songs
Best 'Italian' Selection yet.
Salon pieces to delight the listener
The Italian Songbook......
che bella..

Cecilia Bartoli - An Italian Songbook (Bellini, Donizetti, Rossini)

Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Cecilia Bartoli - If You Love Me (Se tu m'ami ), 18th-Century Italian Songs
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Cecilia Bartoli - Live in Italy / Jean-Yves Thibaudet
Cecilia Bartoli - Chant d'amour (Mélodies française) / Myung-Whung Chung

ASIN: B0000042H2
Release Date: 1997-09-16

Tracks:

Bel Canto Songs: Aragonese
Bel Canto Songs: Vaga luna che inargenti
Bel Canto Songs: II barcaiolo
Bel Canto Songs: Ah! rammenta, o bella Irene
Bel Canto Songs: L'abbandono
Bel Canto Songs: Or che di fiori adorno
Bel Canto Songs: Malinconia, ninfa gentile
Bel Canto Songs: Amore e morte
Bel Canto Songs: Bolero
Bel Canto Songs: La conocchia
Bel Canto Songs: II fervido desiderio
Bel Canto Songs: Torna, vezzosa Fillide
Bel Canto Songs: Vanne, o rosa fortunata
Bel Canto Songs: Dolente immagine di Fille mia
Bel Canto Songs: La farfalletta
Bel Canto Songs: A ma belle mere
Bel Canto Songs: Per pieta, bell'idol mio
Bel Canto Songs: Me voglio fa 'na casa
Bel Canto Songs: L'esule
Bel Canto Songs: La danza (tarantella napoletana)

Amazon.com

The Italian mezzo-soprano Cecilia Bartoli is one of the most charming and talented singers to appear on the scene in recent years, and this collection of Italian songs by three great opera composers--Bellini, Donizetti, and Rossini--is a most deserving bestseller. There are many small pleasures in the selections, which reflect the bel canto predilections of their authors, and Bartoli renders them artfully. Some will be familiar even to casual listeners (Rossini's La Danza, the famous tarantella); others will be new to most, but equally deserving of a hearing. The sensitive and skillful accompaniment is by conductor-pianist James Levine. --Sarah Bryan Miller

Customer Reviews:

Lovely rendition of Italian songs.......2007-03-11

The booklet coming with the CD says of Cecilia Bartoli that she "is justly famous for her coloratura mezzo-soprano voice and her interpretations of Rossini and Mozart." This CD features her lush voice taking on songs of three great Bel Canto composers--Rossini, Bellini, and Donizetti. Some might think of these as trifles, but the singing and musicality is rich and the songs evocative. The piano accompaniment is by famed conductor James Levine, and he does a splendid job.

Some sampling of the songs. . . . The CD begins with a song by Rossini, "Aragones." This is lushly sung; Bartoli has a wondrously rich and textured voice. The pace is contemplative, altogether consistent with the words of the song, the reflection of a disappointed lover. Well done.

Donizetti's "Il barcaiolo" is also well done. Bartoli shows her vocal agility in this tune. This is a spirited song, and her coloratura technique animates her rendition. There are segments sung forte, showing the power of her voice. There is a nice soft closing to the song, so she ranges from forte to piano.

Bellini is represented, too. His "Vaga luna che inargenti" is a pleasant love song. Bartoli sings this tenderly, creating a melancholy spirit, fitting the song's words.

To close, there is Rossini's wonderful tarantella, "La danza." Levine plays at a quick pace, as he must for this spirited song. Bartoli shows great vocal agility and strong breath control (this is a tough song to get right!). A wonderfully spirited version. She even takes a pass at a trill toward the close. All in all, most satisfying.

Thus, this represents a nice CD, showing Bartoli's skills with the songs of some of the great Bel Canto composers. An album that is a lot of fun to listen to!

Best 'Italian' Selection yet........2006-06-16

'An Italian Songbook' by mezzo-soprano Cecilia Bartoli and accompaniest extraordinare, James Levine is the best of the three collections of Italian material from Bartoli I have reviewed to date. Much of this may be due to Levine, but I believe it is more due to the quality of the material selected. All songs are by 'heaviweights Vincenzo Belline, Gaetano Donizetti, and Gioachino Rossini. It is certainly not due to a difference in the quality of Ms. Bartoli's singing, which is uniformly beautiful throughout.

This would be my first choice for Italian material with only piano accompaniment. For a very first Bartoli album, see her 'flagship' recording, 'Cecilia Bartoli' where she is backed by full orchestra and chorus.

Salon pieces to delight the listener.......2006-03-13

Italian art song never became the serious and high form of art that it did within Germany, and hasn't the same place in culture that the French mélodies had. Rather, Italian operatic composers wrote lighter vocal pieces with fairly simple piano accompaniment, designed to be performed in a more intimate setting. One hears immediately the Bellini line (so familiar to those who love Bellini's operas) in his songs - ditto with the Donizetti and Rossini songs.

This in no way robs the songs of immense charm. It would be easy to perform these songs without a great deal of thought, simply making them sound "pretty". But Cecilia Bartoli never does that - she always gives everything, voice, intelligence, musicality, to her performance.

That is what makes this recording so superb. I can see there are some less-than-satisfied reviewers - I am surprised by the comments. For rest assured, there is no vocal difficulty here at all. Cecilia Bartoli's voice is in superb condition throughout, and her interpretation is of course second to none. Having recorded "Vaga luna" myself, I would be the first to say if I thought anything was lacking in Ms Bartoli's performance - but there's nothing adverse I can say at all. It's simply gorgeous singing, with immaculate phrasing, an intensely personal approach, and some of the most beautiful sounds you're likely to hear.

It is hard to imagine anyone being disappointed by this recording. The comments made about squally sound are not just unfair, they're totally inaccurate. I remember purchasing this CD on the very day it was released in Australia, and it's a firm favourite of mine.

In all... delightful.

The Italian Songbook.............2005-12-09

...........sung like a string of pearls. I have never heard "Vaga luna che inargenti" sung so beautifully radiant and lucid. What a contrast when listening to her mournful "L'abbandono" where she sounds so utterly sad and full of melancholy. Brilliant vocal colouring here. "Malincolia, ninfa gentile" is sung with the appropriate pathos but without gimmicks and tricks. Utterly gorgeous Bellinian line. "II fervido desiderio" is sung with just the right amount of yearning and passion. "Per pieta, bell'idol mio" finds her beautifully charming and endearing, who could say no to her? The closing piece, "La Danza" is a tasty little song that suits her to a T. In my humble opinion every young voice student should not only study the Italian Songbook but own this in order to hear how it's done. This is still my favourite Bartoli album.

che bella.........2004-12-23

Cecilia Bartolia is such a refreshing singer in the current state of vocal affairs. For one thing, she is a serious student of the music she sings, and scorns all the 'popera' and crossover artists. She has sought out plenty of unknown/lesser known material to record (Salieri, Vivaldi, Gluck, etc). In the CD in question she does wonderful work with these Italian pezzi. Her voice is now dark, now breathy, now intense, always altered to reflect the words she is singing. Her vocal agility and control are simply remarkable. Pay no attention to the Bartoli nay-sayers, she is a first rate singer.

Cecilia Bartoli - Live in Italy / Jean-Yves Thibaudet

Average customer rating:

Buy two and give one to someone you love!
A joyful sample of the human voice.
A sheer delight from start to finish
Exquisite
Cecilia Live

Cecilia Bartoli - Live in Italy / Jean-Yves Thibaudet
George Frideric Handel , Antonio Vivaldi , Giulio Caccini , Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart , Franz Schubert , Pauline Viardot , Hector Berlioz , Vincenzo Bellini , Gaetano Donizetti , Gioachino Rossini , Umberto Giordano , Xavier Montsalvatge , Georges Bizet , Sonatori de la Gioiosa Marca , Cecilia Bartoli , and Jean-Yves Thibaudet
Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B00000DBTM
Release Date: 1998-10-20

Tracks:

Tu ch'hai le penne, Amore
Amarilli
Al fonte, al prato
Lascia la spina
Agitata da due venti
Oiseaux, si tous les ans, K. 307
La Pastorella, D 528
Havanaise
Hai luli!
Zaide
Malinconia, ninfa gentile
Ma rendi pur contento
La conocchia
Me voglio fa 'na casa
Mi lagnero tacendo
Mi lagnero tacendo (Il Risentimento)
Mi lagnero tacendo (Sorzico)
L' Orpheline du Tyrol
Riedi al soglio (Zelmira)
Le nozze di Figaro: Voi che sapete
Canzonetta Spagnuola
Caro mio ben
Cinco Canciones negras, No. 5: Canto negro
Carmen: Seguedille (Carmen)

Amazon.com essential recording

In the beginning, Cecilia Bartoli seemed to do one thing better than anybody, i.e., Rossini arias, which would not guarantee a long career even for a singer of her ebullience. This live performance from the Teatro Olympico in Vincenza, Italy, shows how much she's expanded, both linguistically and musically. The first five selections reflect her newfound specialty, early opera. The three Caccini selections from the 17th century--accompanied by small string ensemble--are deeply felt and stylistically convincing enough to make one eager for future forays. She's guilty of spinning out Handel's "Lascia la spina" excessively but hits new heights of virtuosity in Vivaldi's "Agitata da due venti." The rest of the disc is for voice and piano, in a program including both some genuine discoveries by French composer Pauline Viardot-Garcia that reveal the singer's increasing emotional depths and less consequential ones by Donizetti and Rossini. Bartoli also sings Spanish songs, most notably Montsalvatge's "Canto negro," proving that the singer doesn't venture into a new language until she can truly feel in it. Remarkably, her voice maintains its strength and body in the deeper, mezzo-ish regions as well as in the high, soprano-range areas. Might she have two voices? --David Patrick Stearns

Customer Reviews:

Buy two and give one to someone you love!.......2007-03-08

(That way, you can get free shipping!) Or, buy Opera Proibita also.

If you think you don't like listening to soprano soloists, you should buy this CD. I must say that I HATE listening to solo singing in general and soprano solo in particular! Well, this lady has stolen my heart! If you see her anywhere on the N American continent, please tell me.

The one-minute limit for listening on-line will simply not allow you to make a judgement. If I could legally allow you to hear track 5 "Griselda - Agitata da Due Venti" (Vivaldi), you would buy the CD without hearing anything else.

When I first heard Cecilia Bartoli on "Performance Today", the subject was "Opera Proibita" and I wrote to a friend who teaches voice at a local college and asked "Is she as good as I think, or am I just overreacting?" His simple response was "She's THAT good!"

This CD is of a live performance and you won't be disappointed except to realize that you COULD have been there, but weren't!

If she ever performs where I am able to see her, I'll be there. If I can talk to her, I will -- but I won't ask for my heart.

Highly recommended!

A joyful sample of the human voice........2006-06-12

'Live in Italy' by mezzo-soprano Cecilia Bartoli, accompanied by pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet is, for those of us who do not know Italian and are not avid opera fans, a simply delightful essay in the beauty of the human voice. I am really happy this is not the first Bartoli album I have bought, as others, such as her recordings of French and Italian love songs have more substance to offer (if you don't know the operas from which these pieces are taken) but this recording, with its live ambiance, is a great pleasure all by itself, a very nice change from the somewhat frostier Fraulain Von Otter from the northern climes.

A sheer delight from start to finish.......2005-07-14

Although I rarely follow singers, even I am totally disarmed by Cecilia's magic spell of charm that criticism fails me. You will see that most of my reviews of music are about modern or Renaissance music, so for me to go out and lavish praise on her is really something totally out of the ordinary. Then again her singing is out of the ordinary in that it has an instantly recognisable warmth and captivating personality that makes her the outstanding singer of the current generation for me.

I have been impressed by Cecilia's tendency to avoid the well worn paths of 19th century Italian operas in favour of championing neglected earlier music whether that be Vivaldi, Haydn, or Salieri. She has always talked about how the centre of gravity of Western music seems to be shifting backwards in time, and in her case this means away from the Austro-German tradition to the time when the Italians dominated music. After all the musical elite of even Wagner's time could be still be heard muttering 'but he just isn't as good as those Italian...' at premiers of works such as Tannhäuser and it took a lot of convincing before the the idea of German opera became accepted. This shift backward in time here is exemplified by way the recital begins with the music of Caccini, the father of opera.

Here on this recording I particularly love the spontaneity of the live music making. Her ability to capture the declamatory nature of much older music such as with Caccini, Vivaldi and Handel suite live recording perfectly. Her manner of conveying the meaning of the words especially when singing in Italian is simply unrivalled in this situation. This is the sort of thing that all too often gets lost in studio recordings so it is a blessing that this is a live recording, where Cecilia seems to just glow. The spontaneity, the sheer magic of the moment - it is all a sheer delight from start to finish. At moments her voice seems so etheral, the hushed and rapt awe of the music making so breathtaking, that it simply beggers belief that the human voice can be so beautiful an instrument. This is what great music making should be all about.

As far as the recording itself goes I have never noticed any disturbing audience noises anywhere even on my system which tends to makes the slightest of rustling blatantly obvious. The recording engineers do an excellent job of capturing the ambience of the acoustic of the Teatro Olimpico in Vincenzo despite the presence of the audience.

A stunning recording and an absolute favourite to relax to or just to be inspired by.

Exquisite.......2003-01-31

"Her natural command of messa di voce phrasing, willingness to shade the voice away to the quietest pianissimo and acute sensitivity to the words of Caccini's love songs proved irresistible, attracting a generous mix of applause and foot stamping."

Such was the appreciation from the audience that the director had to request that the audience not stamp their feet as they would set off the alarm system.

There are hardly words to describe Cecilia Bartoli's remarkable vocal qualities, emotional range and warmth. When I listen to this CD, I am calmed completely. There is an element of comfort in her style. Maybe one could explain it as a lullaby for the soul.

She has the ability to support the longest of phrases on the back of a single breath all while varying the tone color and dynamic level. Singing seems as effortless as breathing as she becomes emotion all while capturing the drama and mood.

In this live performance from the Teatro Olympico in Vincenza, Italy, she performs each piece as if she is intimately entwined with the notes. How can music be this sensual and this comforting all at once? It just is. She can express a wide range of emotions, from profound despair to extreme joy.

The Teatro Olimpico is the worlds' oldest surviving covered theatre. It has fine acoustics, a sky-blue ceiling and marble. Cecilia Bartoli wanted to perform in one of the great treasures of Italy's cultural heritage and this led to this live performance with concert pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet who seems to sense every emotion in Cecilia's voice. It is a sublime combination of talent which is further enhanced by violins, viola, cello, violone, archlute and harpsichord.

Tu ch'hai le penne, Amore - A song to love asking love to fly to where the heart lies and to promise that his heart and soul were ever hers.

Amarilli - Delicate and beautiful expression of true love.

Al fonte, al prato - You can feel spring approaching and this song has a certain energy Cecilia embraces as she sings away troubles and sadness to allow in merriment.

Lascia la spina - Melancholy. "Old age will creep up on you when your heart does not expect it."

Agitata da due venti - Cecilia's voice takes flight in this song about waves raging in a stormy sea. She almost becomes the force of the ocean as her voice surges and dives and wow.

Oiseaux, si tous les ans, K307 - She embodies a haunting vulnerability and the freshness of spring/summer. This song ends far too quickly.

La pastorella, D528 - Calm beauty to reflect a shepherdess in a meadow. Innocent love.

Havanaise - It seems like she has a completely different voice in this song as she reaches
to new ranges in depth. Charmed by a song? Perhaps.

Hai luli! - A seductive treatment of a song asking "where can my love be?"

"What's the point of living without a lover?"

Zaide - High energy and fast paced. A song about an orphan.

Malinconia, ninfa gentile - Gorgeous and poetic song.

Ma rendi pur contento - She really captures longing and an almost delicate purity.

La conocchia - Light and breezy.

Me voglio fa 'na casa - A song about the desire to build a house surrounded by the sea. Fantasy and happiness.

Mi langero tacendo - Poignant moment.

"I shall not complain of my bitter fate;
but, my beloved, do not hope for me not to love you."

Mi lagnero tacendo ll resentimento - the sorrow continues. The lover is said to be cruel.

Mi lagnero tacendo Sorzico - more complaints of cruelty and sorrow. She seems to capture frustration so exquisitely and is that stomping I hear? ;)

L'Orpheline du Tyrol - The Tyrolean orphan girl. Jean-Yves Thibaudet really takes the stage at first and Cecilia follows almost timidly. A song of tragedy, hunger and suffering.

Riedi al soglio from Rossini's opera Zelmira left seasoned connoisseurs dazzled. After the aria's final cadence, they broke from their awe-struck silence to add to the shouts of "encore."

Voi che sapete - Light and yet still dramatic. Desire, torment, ice. All explored fully by her voice. You can hear "torment" when she sings "martir" even if you could not see the words or follow along. Her voice really "flutters" when she sings "palpito e tremo." It is just amazing.

Canzonetta spagnuola - A muse comes to torment a painter.

Caro mio ben - A lover grows faint without love. Solitary melodies and you can almost feel the chill in the room or the feeling of despair the lover feels.

Canto negro - Is there anything she can't sing? This piece might seem completely out of place, but by now everyone is completely drunk with emotion from this performance.

Seguidille - Pleasure comes when two people are together. Definitely so when Cecilia Bartoli and Jean-Yves Thibaudet perform together. This song is almost a metaphor of the entire intoxicating experience. I just love how the audience goes absolutely wild after this song.

And too soon, it is over. I look forward to one day viewing the performance on DVD. It will be so much easier to understand the words now that I've literally studied this performance. Knowing the words definitely adds to the subtle emotions and more expressive moments.

~TheRebeccaReview.com

Cecilia Live.......2002-07-12

I have loved her low and warm voice ever since the first time I listened to her, the Italian mezzo-soprano Cecilia Bartoli. With respect and tenderness she treats the composers, whose works she performs while adding her own dimension. She transports me with her art. It is as if we become one person, and I experience her joy of music. Together we share a glimpse of eternity.

On this album which was recorded live at the Teatro Olimpico, Vicenza, Italy in 1998 Cecilia Bartoli offers her listeners a varied programme comprised of several composers: Caccini, Haendel, Vivaldi, Mozart, Rossini, Donizetti, Bellini, Viardot, Schubert, Montsalvatge and Bizet. She's accompanied in Caccini, Haendel and Vivaldi by the Sonatori de la Gioiosa Marca (Baroque string ensemble) and for the other pieces by Jean-Yves Thibaudet on piano. The accompanying booklet contains the lyrics, translations and further information.

Ms. Bartoli certainly has expanded her musical horizons here in several ways. On this disc she sings in Italian, French and Spanish. I loved her intense and heartfelt rendition of Caccini's and Haendel's arias. The passionate acrobatics of Vivaldi. And the Sonatori de la Gioiosa Marca gave her a fine support. She made a warm and lovely Cherubino in Mozart's famous 'Voi che sapete'. I also loved her sparkling interpretations of Viardot's 'Havanaise', Rossini's 'Mi lagnero tacendo' or his 'Canzonetta spagnuola'. But Montsalvatge's 'Canto negro' made me feel definitely uncomfortable and Ms. Bartoli herself didn't connect with it. Although I liked her rendition of Bizet's 'Seguedille, I still missed something there. Jean-Yves Thibaudet lends her an excellent, attentive and expressive support.

Although I would have preferred some more Baroque pieces at this concert, this live album is a keeper for me. Everytime the bundle of pure joy that is Cecilia Bartoli has the power to move me deeply!