Bloom

About the Artist
There are no weak links -- and no easy definitions -- within the world of Amun Ra [ah-MOON-rah].

In ancient Egyptian, "AMUN" means "the hidden one," and "RA" is the "Sun God." In turn, the kinetic, modern music of AMUN RA can be both elusive and powerful, fusing elements of drum'n'bass, jazz, pop, world-music, trip-hop, and even art-rock in a striking, unusual balance which subtly reflects the Russian, North African and American influences of the Boston-based band's membership.

Vocalist Emily Fisher provides emotive, poetic ruminations over guitarist Misha Rutman's textural manipulations and probing leads, and keyboardist Neil Larson's ethereal chordings and fluid flurries. The bottom is woven with the thick, dub-infused lines of five-string bassist Nate Horney and the crisp propulsion of jazz-bred drummer Ed Arnold, who can shift from brisk breakbeats to hand percussion like the dumbek and krakeb, a North African cousin of castanets. Percussive sounds of a beatbox from occasional guest Gabe Parquette only add to the expansive palette of AMUN RA.

As their debut album is nearing a completion and due out in the summer of 2003, AMUN RA has shared the stage with Cyro Baptista's Beat the Donkey, Moonraker and Aaron Katz Band, and others. They have welcomed turntablists Mister Rourke and DJ Axel Foley as special guests and have already performed at such respected venues as the original House of Blues in Cambridge MA, New York City's Elbow Room and Lion's Den, Harper's Ferry in Allston MA, the Lizard Lounge in Cambridge MA, and more.

Product Description
"Bloom" is the debut album from Amun Ra that showcases their soulful side and it never lets up on the beat.

Bloom,Amun Ra,The Orchard,Pop,Pop Vocals,Popular Music

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Average customer rating: Waltz CD review

Classical Evolution: Waltzes J. Strauss Jr Manufacturer: Delta ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music $5.99 and Under | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Classical | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music $5.99 and Under | Prices | Blowout Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Classical | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Classical Evolution: Famous Piano Works II Classical Evolution: Spanish Guitar Music Classical Evolutions: Famous Overtures Classical Evolution: Famous Piano Works I Classical Evolution: Rite of Spring ASIN: B000065AO6 Release Date: 2002-05-07

Tracks:

1. Roses From The South Op.388
2. The United Millions Op.443
3. Where The Lemon Trees Blossom Op.364
4. Artist's Life Op.316
5. Treasure Waltz (From The Gypsy Baron) Op.418

Tracks:

1. Emperor Waltz Op.437
2. Tritsch, Tratsch Polka Op.214
3. Wine, Woman And Song Op.333
4. Eljen A Magyar Op.332
5. Morning Papers Op.279
6. Persian March Op.289
7. On The Beautiful Blue Danube Op.314

Customer Reviews:

Waltz CD review.......2007-05-06

The CD was delivered on time and was exactly as advertised ... good.

Average customer rating: Another great CD from a brilliant guitarist hard to review Getting weaker with age...EJ needs to practice a musical garden Eric Johnson Delivers

Bloom Eric Johnson Manufacturer: Favored Nations ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock Guitarists | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Album-Oriented Rock (AOR) | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Similar Items: Eric Johnson - Live From Austin Tx Super Colossal Ah Via Musicom Live from Austin, TX Venus Isle ASIN: B0009K7RO8 Release Date: 2005-06-14

Tracks:

1. Bloom
2. Summer Jam
3. My Back Pages
4. Good To Me
5. Columbia
6. 12 To 12 Vibe
7. Sea Secret
8. Sad Legacy
9. From My Heart
10. Cruise The Nile
11. Tribute To Jerry Reed
12. Your Sweet Eyes
13. Hesitant
14. Sunnaround You
15. Magnetized
16. Ciel

Amazon.com

Texas guitar prodigy Eric Johnson returns to recording after a near-decade absence with a lush, typically restrained collection that eschews flash for fluid cool. Arranging the album's 16 songs into a musical triptych whose sections are labeled "Prelude," "Courante" and "Allemande," Johnson aims at creating a landscape of shifting moods that's as subtle as it is mature. The guitarist's trademark lyrical style is immediately showcased on the title track, "Summer Jam" and the stately fallen astronaut tribute, "Columbia." The first section is also energized by the funked-up "Good to Me," before Johnson turns to fare that's variously more impressionistic (the instrumental "Sea Secret"), conscience-driven (the pop-savvy ballad "Sad Legacy") and smooth-groove, r&b sultry ("From My Heart"). The infectious finger-pickin' "Tribute to Jerry Reed" segues into a final act that includes the romance of "Your Sweet Eyes" (with guest Shawn Colvin adding her distinctive harmonies), "Hesistant"'s tasteful Wes Montgomery-isms and the 70's charged, acid-jazz of "Magnetized." His fusion-lite cover of Dylan's "My Back Pages" and saccharine "Sunnaround You" withstanding, it's another fine tribute to Johnson's tasteful, often introspective muse. -- Jerry McCulley

Customer Reviews:

Another great CD from a brilliant guitarist.......2006-10-25

This is an impressive effort. This CD has been played fairly constantly in my car for the past 3 weeks. What impresses me is that I consistently find new bits that stand out depending on my mood. There are some great grooves, brilliant fills, and rocking riffs in classic Eric Johnson style in the first movement, 'Prelude'. The opener 'Bloom' and 'Good To Me' are probably the highlights there. Mr. Johnson then turns it down a bit during 'Courante', the second movement.

'Sad Legacy' and 'From My Heart' are both great introspective songs. 'Sad Legacy' builds a sense of urgency and 'From My Heart' has a mellower, R&B feel and nice jazzy runs. These two are probably my favorites off the album.

The last movement, 'Allemande' starts off with a nice old-school style jazzy number, 'Hesistant'. 'Magnetized' gets things rocking again, before a very good atmospheric classical guitar piece, 'Ciel' ends the ride.

Eric plays an wide variety of styles on this release and manages to keep it all together as one cohesive piece, with one small exception. Tribute to Jerry Reed, while a nice bit of picking doesn't fit on this CD for me, especially after the sitar on 'Cruise The Nile'.

I'd recommend this CD to anyone who enjoyed Ah Via Musicom or Venus Isle. Or, if you aren't familiar with Eric johnson already, then do yourself a favor and pick up a CD. This one is as good as any of his studio albums to start off with.

hard to review.......2006-08-12

I can see why some are disappointed with 'Bloom' since a few songs aren't so fresh. Still, this CD is amazing if you make a copy of a "Best of Bloom" (Of the first six fast songs, I usually only listen to Bloom and the cooler than cool Good to Me.)

For me, this would be:
1. Bloom
4. Good to Me
7. Sea Secret
8. Sad Legacy
10. Cruise the Nile
12. Your Sweet Eyes
9. From My Heart

Not to knock the other songs, but this is the 27 minute CD I like. Perfect in the summer. I feel sorry for people who don't hear Bloom.

Getting weaker with age...EJ needs to practice.......2006-07-19

Seriously friends...I was watching a youthful EJ on the ACL DVD and he just blew my mind, lick after lick but let's be real...Bloom is a repeat of the same old thing except not as good as it used to be.

EJ, take it from one of your biggest fans who owns all of your music...if you come out with another album, don't use samples because you think that they will help you modernize the music or "relate" to the kids. Go into the woodshed and seriously, build a chair. You need to practice and learn something new if you're going to do something original ever again. Otherwise, each and every album that you put out is going to sound the same as old ones...like this one does.

Still, much respect. You are a great master of the instrument but, PRACTICE!

a musical garden.......2006-07-10

This was the first cd of its type I have brought into my audio library,but it was a good introduction. I've known about Eric Johnson for most of his career and always was fond of his sound, but just never got around to adding any of his stuff to my collection. Then I went to a joint Joe Satriani/Eric Johnson evening, and the next day there were 3 new cds in my collection. This, his latest, is a nice presentation of all of his stuff, from chicken-pickin' (the excellent "Tribute to Jerry Reed") to smooth, cool jazz ("Hesitant" ; "Ciel"), to working his pleasant tenor in one of his forays into lyricism (the also pleasant "Sad Legacy" and "Your Sweet Eyes"). My main fault with Johnson's music is I can hardly ever understand what he's singing, but his voice is so agreeable and his tunes so listenable that i'm willing to overlook it. This is a solid body of work, full of clean lilting notes and stinging riffs. A good inclusion in the library of any guitar aficianado.

Eric Johnson Delivers.......2006-07-09

Bloom is definitely one of Eric Johnson's strongest efforts. Almost every song on the album is a winner. The couple that aren't are still really enjoyable.

What I love about EJ is that first he is always very diverse with his songs. They have a wide range of feel and texture that very few musicians have.

Secondly his guitar playing is amazing. His guitar's tone is perfect for each song. Be it the signature EJ sound in Columbia, the definite twang in Tribute to Jerry Reed, the Eastern feel in Cruise the Nile or the stirring chimes in Your Sweet Eyes. And he is able to make the guitar pieces important, yet never overbearing.

This is definitely an album that gets maximum play on my iPod...

Average customer rating: Invigoratingly original jangle-pop blues-punk hybrid The ONLY band that matters right now! bloom me away!

Let It Bloom Black Lips Manufacturer: In the Red Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Punk | Hardcore & Punk | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Garage Rock | Rock | Alternative Styles | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Black Lips! We Did Not Know the Forest Spirit Made the Flowers Grow Too Much Guitar Ode to Joy Porcella ASIN: B000BOH92M Release Date: 2005-11-22

Tracks:

1. Sea Of Blasphemy
2. Can't Dance
3. Boomerang
4. Hippie, Hippie, Hoorah
5. Not A Problem
6. Gung Ho
7. Everybody's Doin' It
8. Feeling Gay
9. Take Me Home (Back To Boone)
10. Gentle Violence
11. She's Gone
12. Fairy Stories
13. Dirty Hands
14. Workin'
15. Punk Slime
16. Emphassant

Customer Reviews:

Invigoratingly original jangle-pop blues-punk hybrid.......2007-02-06

When I first bought this CD a few months ago, I treated it as a novelty. I played it on my small CD player before bedtime, reveling in the ragged tunes but not really fully captivated by the disc. But when the CD migrated to my actual stereo, I began to take more notice, and now this album has evolved into one of my top ten favorites.

The Black Lips' signature sound is a searing blend of 60s blues and jangle-pop, screeching 80s punk, and modern hipster garage rock, with nuanced dips into Motown and R&B. The tunes are a trashy mishmash of musical styles, and exude a sort of slimy charisma, the way they wrap catchy hooks and singable melodies in a sort of chain mail of dissonance. Each song exists as its own freaky entity, evoking just about every rock and roll era and genre without being in any way cheaply imitative or derivative. And the surrealistically profane lyrics only add to the sleazy charm of the songs.

I predict that the Black Lips will be the next Stooges. The Stooges were the punkish counterparts to more mainstream 60s bands, and indeed, the Black Lips carve a rougher, rawer soundscape than that of some of the sleeker, more packaged garage bands like The Strokes.

Of course, it doesn't matter if The Black Lips become more overtly popular, because they are so damn good you almost wish you could harbor the secret for yourself.

(Let me add that I am shocked that only three people have reviewed this album. For shame! Rolling Stone magazine even listed it among the best albums of 2006. Not that I give a ton of credence to Rolling Stone, but occassionally they get it right.)

The ONLY band that matters right now!.......2006-03-19

Pure raw rock n' roll that leaves nothing to be desired. This band is a band to see live (known for notorious acts such as pee drinking, blood, bottle breaking and fire). This album is their first to actually capture the bands energy and let the listener feel it. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

bloom me away!.......2006-01-18

It's difficult to believe that this is the dirty, disgusting, punks who are so bad on stage that they make their selves spontaneously puke. Black Lips demonstrate in Let it Bloom that they are actually musicians; they have shown in this CD how they have matured in writing and producing music. Their sound is original, yet eerily familiar. When they get their act together, Black Lips can produce great stuff. Let's hope they choose to keep it up.

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

The Ultimate Gilbert & Sullivan Collection Arthur Sullivan , Isidore Godfrey , Royston Nash , New Symphony Orchestra of London , Royal Philharmonic Orchestra , Colin Wright , Donald Adams , George Cook , Gillian Knight , Jean Hindmarsh , Jeffrey Skitch , John Ayldon , John Reed , Joyce Wright , Kenneth Sandford , Lyndsie Holland , Owen Brannigan , Pauline Wales , Peggy Ann Jones , Thomas Round , Valerie Masterson , and D'Oyly Carte Opera Company Manufacturer: Decca ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Sullivan | Sullivan, Arthur | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Brannigan, Owen | ( B ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music London Philharmonic Orchestra | ( L ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music Similar Items: The Best of Gilbert & Sullivan Gilbert & Sullivan - Highlights from The Mikado, The Pirates of Penzance, H.M.S. Pinafore, The Yeomen of the Guard, Trial of Jury Topsy-Turvy - The Music of Gilbert & Sullivan: From the Original Motion Picture Soundtrack Topsy-Turvy The Complete Annotated Gilbert & Sullivan ASIN: B000007OU0 Release Date: 1998-06-09

Tracks:

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

Customer Reviews:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Average customer rating: The Best Of Gilbert And Sullivan Pure delight Delicious G&S samplings abound here. Fine Intro to G&S

Gilbert & Sullivan - Highlights from The Mikado, The Pirates of Penzance, H.M.S. Pinafore, The Yeomen of the Guard, Trial of Jury Nicholas Folwell , Arthur Sullivan , Marie McLaughlin , Rebecca Evans , Anthony Rolfe Johnson , John Mark Ainsley , Alwyn Mellor , Anne Howells , Barry Banks , Eric Garrett , Felicity Palmer , Gareth Rhys Davies , Janice Watson , Julie Gossage , Neill Archer , Pamela Helen Stephen , Peter Savidge , Richard Stuart , Richard Suart , Richard Van Allan , Sir Thomas Allen [baritone] , Sir Charles Mackerras , and Welsh National Opera Manufacturer: Telarc ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Sullivan | Sullivan, Arthur | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Allen, Thomas | ( A ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music 4-for-3 Classical | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Ultimate Gilbert & Sullivan Collection Topsy-Turvy - The Music of Gilbert & Sullivan: From the Original Motion Picture Soundtrack The Best of Gilbert & Sullivan The Complete Annotated Gilbert & Sullivan The Gilbert and Sullivan Overtures ASIN: B000003D1Y Release Date: 1996-01-23

Tracks:

1. A Wandering Minstrel I
2. Behold The Lord High Executioner!
3. Three Little Maids From School Are We
4. Braid The Raven Hair
5. The Flowers That Bloom In The Spring
6. On A Tree By A River, A Little Tom-tit Sang, 'Willow, Tit-willow'
7. For He's Gone And Married Yum-Yum
8. We Sail The Ocean Blue
9. I'm Called Little Buttercup
10. My Gallant Crew
11. When I Was A Lad
12. Things Are Seldom What They Seem
13. Never Mind The Why And Wherefore
14. Climbing Over Rocky Mountain
15. Poor Wand'ring One
16. How Beautifully Blue The Sky
17. I Am The Very Model Of A Modern Major-General
18. When The Foeman Bares His Steel
19. Ah, Leave Me Not To Pine
20. With Cat-Like Tread
21. Is Life A Boon?
22. I Have A Song To Sing, O!
23. Were I Thy Bride
24. Oh, A Private Buffoon Is A Light-Hearted Loon
25. When A Wooer Goes A-Wooing
26. When I, Good Friends, Was Called To The Bar
27. A Nice Dilemma We Have Here
28. Oh, Joy Unbounded

Customer Reviews:

The Best Of Gilbert And Sullivan.......2004-03-15

At the end of the 19th century (1870's, 80's and 90's) the compatible duo of librettist and composer Gilbert and Sullivan popularized the pre-Broadway entertainment of Savoy opera. These were light operas or operettas whose content was satire and comedy, full of bouncy melodies and beautiful singing, highly entertaining theatrical works staged at London's Savoy theatre. Gilbert and Sullivan did not always get along and in fact there was a time when they ended their professional relationship because personal conflicts surfaced. But they managed to create the world's most beloved light operas, over 40 of them. Their most famous are what I call the Big Three- The H.M.S. Pinafore, The Pirates Of Penzance and The Mikado. Other works include their first hit Trial By Jury, The Yeomen Of The Guard, Princess Ida, The Gondoliers, Patience and several others. A standard signature of Gilbert and Sullivan was in the colorful cast- a comic actor with a special kind of baritone voice, a canary-like and sweet-voiced coloratura or lyric diva, a mezzo soprano with strong chest register and a lyric tenor as the romantic hero. On this album, English conductor Sir Charles Mackerras, a popular figure in the classical music scene and opera, guides the Chorus and Orchestra Of the Welsh National Opera in generally well-delivered performances of excerpts from the operas The Mikado, The H.M.S. Pinafore, The Pirates Of Penzance, Yeomen Of The Guard and Trial By Jury. Although I feel that the recordings made by the D'Oyly Carte Opera Company, with Isodore Godfrey conducting and starring the best cast of the Gilbert and Sullivan repertoire- the singers of the 60's and 70's- tenor Phillip Potter, soprano Valerie Masterson, baritone John Reed, Donald Adams and mezzo soprano Christine Palmer. Their version of the Pirates Of Penzance and the Mikado far outshine the Welsh National Opera in technical mastery and vibrant tone color.

But these are fine excerpts. Especially appealing is the famous and cheerful "Three Little Maids From School Are We", a trio that imitates Japanese style melody. Most of the Mikado does this, for it was inspired by Japanisme or the new fashion in Victorian England- everything Japanese, from prints to paintings to poetry. Gilbert and Sullivan simply "Japanized" their English operettas. The Finale "For He's Gone To Marry Yum Yum" is an ebullient and pleasant finale. Not featured here is the domineering and powerful Katisha, a figure who stands out in the Mikado.

The H.M.S. Pinafore is Gilbert and Sullivan's most popular work. The sea chanty "We Sail The Ocean Blue" opens the opera with appropriate atmosphere and it seems to fit perfectly with the other scene in which the Captain greets his crew and they sing his praises "My Gallant Crew..I am the Captain Of The Pinafore". A beautiful melody that seems to come out of a romantic Offenbach tune is "I"m Called Little Buttercup". The finale, not featured here, is also very engaging "For He Is An Englishman" which can almost resemble a British national anthem. The Yeomen Of The Guard was Gilbert and Sullivan's "serious opera" eventhough it remains very Savoyard. The plot deals with Tudor England and takes place at the London Tower. "I have a song to sing" makes use of what can be taken for an English ballad of the Renaissance. Trial By Jury, about the eccentric and hilarious activity of a court trial, has a sextet that although different in composition, has the sextet "Che Mi Frena" from Donizetti's Lucia Di Lammermoor in mind. All in all, an excellent recording sure to delight young and old.

Pure delight.......2003-08-02

--Gilbert & Sullivan--
William Gilbert and Arthur Sullivan were a match made in heaven, yet on earth their pairing seems even with hindsight a most unlikely coupling. Both were destined for other things, Gilbert in fact for decidedly non-musical careers. Introduced by a mutual friend, Fred Clay, the fledgling lyricist Gilbert met the military-band-leader's son Sullivan and together continued to conspire to inspire the delights of audiences from high Victorian times down to the present, as their work in musical theatre comedy continues to provide merriment throughout the English-speaking world and beyond.

--The Music--
This collection includes highlights from five of the most popular Gilbert & Sullivan operettas: The Mikado, HMS Pinafore, The Pirates of Penzance, The Yeoman of the Guard, and Trial by Jury. The arrangements and orchestrations are delightfully energetic and clear; the characterisation and vocal qualities of the leads are perfect for their roles. The haughty if misplaced Lord of the Admiralty has the perfect combination of insecurity and pompous officiousness. The Plaintiff and the Defendant in the Trial are perfectly cast. This is a collection of highlights - at least three but no more than seven songs each, but this gives a good flavour of the music. The recordings on this collection come from complete performances by Mackerras and the WNO.

--Sir Charles Mackerras--
Mackerras is one of the geniuses of the twentieth century musical scene. Having a conducting career that includes the Hamburg Opera, the English National Opera (formerly Sadlers Wells Opera), and the Welsh National Opera (the performers for this piece), he has also conducted major orchestras on the continent of Europe and in the United States. The holder of many major awards and honourary doctorates, he has devoted much time and energy to the preservation and performance of eighteenth and nineteenth century music, as well the restoration of historical musical venues, such as the Estates Theatre in Prague, scene of the original production of Don Giovanni (Mackerras conducted the opera there to commemorate the bicentenary of the death of Mozart).

--Welsh National Opera Orchestra and Chorus--
The seeds of the WNO were planted in Cardiff during World War II by music lovers; the first performances occurred a year after the war's end, with Cavalleria rusticana and Pagliacci on the bill, with Faust the next night. Popular appeal was so great that the WNO was established, later adding choruses in both Cardiff and Swansea. The professional chorus was established in 1973, with a strength that matches the orchestra. They continue an ambitious performance schedule for recording and live events; Mackerras remains the Conductor Emeritus, as the WNO continues under the direction of Carlo Rizzi. The list of awards the WNO has won over the years is staggering - they are a world class institution by any measure.

--Other performers--
Notable singers such as Richard Stuart, Rebecca Evans, Felicity Palmer, John Mark Ainsley and Anne Howells lead the chorus with stunning vocals and clever characterisations of the parts they play. Many (such as Stuart and Evans) play the leading roles across several of the pieces of the disc.

--Liner Notes--
The liner notes give a good introduction and biographical information about Gilbert and Sullivan, as well as synopses of the five pieces presented here. It does not, unfortunately, include any information about Mackerras, the WNO Orchestra and Chorus, or the other special performers. It also does not include the lyrics to the songs. Were the quality of the CD not so great, this might cost it a star in rating.

--Overall Impressions--
I play this CD in my car, in my home and in my office frequently. It is a great sing-along work and a great comedic relief from the stresses of the day. The music is bubbly and clear; the recording quality is excellent and crisp. I recommend this to any Gilbert & Sullivan lover, any fan of musical comedy, opera and operettas, and anyone who delights in good music.

Delicious G&S samplings abound here........2003-05-06

The first thing I should be saying is "What an infectuous G&S CD." Indeed this is, with this fine sampling of the peppy and bright Mackerras series. I know I have praised its "Mercedes-Benz quality" elsewhere on these pages, but that doesn't stop me from saying that everyone is in fine voice. This generously filled CD may only focus on five operas, but at least you can savour a reasonable choice sampling of delights from each one. Of particular interest is Richard Suart's patter-baritone parts and the soaring lyric soprano of Rebecca Evans. The selection on this disc is filled with a mixture of familiar favourites and lesser-known gems such as the female choruses in Mikado and Pirates. Mackerras is a true G&S conductor, but one who always springs rhythms crisply, and adopts peppy tempo for the fast bits. The one drawback is that this selection is far too infectuous that you'll want to shell out money to buy the full 5-CD Mackerras cycle - an incredible bargain with most of the operas fitted onto one disc each. But still, this is at least a decent G&S sampling for beginners, capped with Steven Ledbetter's copious liner notes. It will leave you wanting to say "dammit I'm going to play it again."

Fine Intro to G&S.......2000-12-30

This is the perfect CD for those who may not be familiar with G&S, or for the initiated who want a smattering but don't have the mother of all CD changers. The difficulty with any G&S Greatest Hits CD is determining which pieces to leave off; while one could easily point to any number equally good bits, it would be difficult to argue about the quality of the choices included. The only problem, such as it is, is that after listening to it I am usually induced to go back and listen to the whole opera anyway. The Mackerras recordings are uniformly excellent. I have read elsewhere the criticism that they are too 'operatic' for light opera. If by this it is meant that the singers are too good, then I leave it to the discretion of the listener when the singing becomes too good to be enjoyable.

Average customer rating: Not bad for a remix album. Not sure if everyone is listening to the same CD Somehow it all works! Do not buy this album Poor sarah

Bloom Remix Album Sarah McLachlan Manufacturer: Arista ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Canada | North America | International | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Electronica | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Remixed Live Acoustic Rarities, B-Sides & Other Stuff Afterglow Live (CD/DVD) Touch ASIN: B000AA3002 Release Date: 2005-09-06

Tracks:

1. World on Fire (Junkie XL Club/GM Edit)
2. Ice (Dusted Mix)
3. Vox (Tom Middleton Mix)
4. Dirty Little Secret (Thievery Corporation Mix)
5. Stupid (DJ Hyper Mix)
6. Train Wreck (Sly & Robbie Mix)
7. DMC featuring Sarah McLachlan: Just Like Me (Will-i-am of the Black Eyed Peas Remix)
8. Answer (Talvin Singh Mix)
9. Fallen (Gabriel & Dresden Mix/ GM Edit)
10. Fumbling Towards Ecstasy (Junior Boys Mix)

Amazon.com

Many remixed CDs are mildly amusing at best. Sarah McLachlan's Bloom, on the other hand, is a showcase of world-class musicians reworking her timeless compositions to match their compelling styles, rather than just adding dance beats to pre-existing Sarah songs. The list of contributors to this collection is most impressive, likely to bring non-folk fans into her fold. Reggae legends Sly & Robbie have done some amazing dub-meets-downtempo work on "Train Wreck," arguably improving upon the original cut. DMC (of Run DMC fame) collaborates with Will.I.Am from the Black Eyed Peas to turn out the very BEP-sounding track "Just Like Me," which is centered around McLachlan singing the chorus of "Cats In The Cradle." Famed South Asian DJ Talvin Singh has created a rich, tabla and sitar-infused take on the achingly beautiful "Answer," guaranteed to be a hit at yoga studios and aromatherapy shops everywhere. As far as the other songs are concerned, the majority are amped-up and turned into house music, especially Amsterdam legend Junkie XL's "World On Fire" and the (80's-esque driving beat of "Vox," mixed by Tom Middleton. Ironically, some of the best and brightest moments on Bloom occur when the strong cast of DJs and producers create compositions significantly different from McLachlan's masterful originals. The talent of Sly & Robbie, Talvin Singh, DMC, and Thievery Corporation alone make this album well worth acquiring. --Denise Sheppard

Customer Reviews:

Not bad for a remix album........2006-10-06

Just to let everyone know, I purchased this album through BMG and had no problem ripping it to my computer. Their vesion is apparently not content/copy protected. The best remixes on the album are "Vox" and "Stupid." Worst track is "Just Like Me," it just seems completely out of place and doesn't fit Sarah's style.

Not sure if everyone is listening to the same CD.......2006-10-01

This is one of my favorite Sarah CD's. The dance mix is great. Between this and Afterglow, they are always being played and I have almost every single CD of McLachlan's. It is so refreshing that you can take your music and mix it up and appeal to another group of people. My friend is in the music business and has his own musicians for clients and he even brought this CD. I applaud Sarah McLachlan.

Somehow it all works!.......2006-08-23

I have recently discovered Sarah McLachlan's music and it's been a revelation. The songwriting (words and music) and the vocals are heartfelt and effective. Most of her songs have memorable lines and the vocals are hauntingly beautiful. The thought of a "Remix" album of her music didn't sound like a good thing at first but I was pleasantly surprised. Most tracks have been remixed fully understanding the real emotion/feel behind that particular song - resulting in an album that is deep and sincere yet produces some good, upbeat tracks. Overall, very good fusion of singer-songwriter type songs and modern electronically produced music.

Do not buy this album.......2006-07-30

As long as Sarah is on Sony I will never again purchase one of her albums. This spyware, copy protection scheme is borderline illegal, it's intrusive, and makes playing the music I paid for a pain in the behind.

Some of the tracks are good, but not worth putting spyware on your machine. Just go download them.

Don't support companies that violate your privacy, and don't support artists that accept fat contracts from said companies.

Poor sarah.......2006-07-26

Thanks to the record companies' greed and decision to include crippling copy-protection software on this disc, this is the first Sarah McLachlan album I haven't purchased. I listen to CD's at home, but at work and elsewhere I mostly use my mp3 player, and it was easier to find an illegal copy of the album than it would be to drive to a store, buy the CD, and then search google to find someone's instructions on how to bypass the copy protection just so I could listen to the album away from home.

Have record company suits ever been fans? Somehow I doubt it.

Average customer rating: Totally infectious Surprisingingly enjoyable stuff

Shostakovich: Waltzes Manufacturer: Delos Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Incidental Music | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Shostakovich | Shostakovich, Dmitri | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Russian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Movie Scores | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Similar Items: Shostakovich: The Jazz Album Shostakovich: The Film Album Shostakovich: Ballet Suites Nos. 1-4 Shostakovich: Cheryomushki, The Bolt, The Gadfly (The Dance Album) Jazz Suites 1 & 2 ASIN: B00001IVR2 Release Date: 1999-08-31

Tracks:

1. Shostakovich Waltzes

Customer Reviews:

Totally infectious.......2003-01-07

Shostakovich is mostly known for his serious works, his symphonies and string quartets, however he wrote a large number of film, incidental, and ballet music. This CD compiles many of his waltzes and some other pieces from these. While this is mainly what could be considered "light" music, many of the pieces have wonderful melodies and coloful orchestrations.

Some of my favorite waltzes include the one from Return of Maxim, the one from Golden Hills, and the one from The First Echelon (aka Waltz #2 from the 2nd Jazz Suite). Beyond the waltzes there are some other pieces, including the famous Polka from The Age of Gold and Folk Festival (Spanish Dance) from The Gadfly.

The only caveat is that some of the pieces don't reference their original source (rather they are listed as being from various ballet suites, when they in fact come from The Limpid Stream and other sources), but this is a very minor complaint. The performance and sound is wonderful, and unless you are one who can't stand this sort of compilation, it gets my highest recommendation.

Surprisingingly enjoyable stuff.......1999-10-04

After years of my hearing and not thinking very much of Shastakovich's symphonies, this Delos delight came as a total surprise. Containing just under an hour of mostly waltzes mixed with some polkas, a galop, and even setting of "Tahiti Trot" (inspired by "Tea for Two" of all things), this concert gives us a rare chance to hear a good deal of music this composer wrote for films seldom if ever seen outside of Russia as well as some more familiar stuff from his ballets. Not one really great piece, nor not really boring one. Just a boxful of what Thomas Beecham used to call "Bonbons" from a very unexpected source. Lots of fun from Delos.

Average customer rating:

Tribe Luka Bloom Manufacturer: Cooking Vinyl ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Urban Folk | New Wave & Post-Punk | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Alternative Folk | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music Britain | British Isles | Europe | International | Styles | Music Ireland | British Isles | Europe | International | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Folk Rock | Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Similar Items: Platinum Collection Sweet Warrior Time on Earth Up Front and Down Low Cimarron Manifesto ASIN: B000R34876 Release Date: 2007-07-31

Tracks:

1. Tribe
2. Sound
3. I Am a River
4. Change
5. Early Morning
6. Out There
7. Dead Of Night
8. Star Of Doolin
9. Homeless
10. Lebanon
11. Peace Rains
12. Beara

Average customer rating: Like Fine Irish Whiskey a beautiful vision of peace just gets better Full of Wonder, and Wonderful One of his best...

Innocence Luka Bloom Manufacturer: Cooking Vinyl ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Urban Folk | New Wave & Post-Punk | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Alternative Folk | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music Britain | British Isles | Europe | International | Styles | Music Ireland | British Isles | Europe | International | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Folk Rock | Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Similar Items: Before Sleep Comes Between the Mountain and the Moon Amsterdam Riverside The Acoustic Motorbike ASIN: B000E6ESQM Release Date: 2006-03-21

Tracks:

1. PRIMAVERA
2. FIRST LIGHT OF SPRING
3. INNOCENCE
4. VENUS
5. MIRACLE CURE
6. PEACE ON EARTH
7. GYPSY MUSIC
8. CITY OF CHICAGO
9. JUNE
10. SALVADOR
11. NO MATTER WHERE YOU GO, THERE YOU ARE
12. THANK YOU FOR BRINGING ME HERE
13. LARRY REDICAN OW
14. DOING THE BEST I CAN
15. I AM NOT AT WAR

Album Description

Innocence seems like a strange title for Luka Bloom's tenth studio album. However, Innocence is an album that could easily be mistaken as an accomplished debut. Bloom's lyrics are so insightful and fresh that you'd be forgiven for mistaking him as a young and disillusioned twenty-something, instead of a 50 year old who has been making music for 36 years. Musically, Innocence is just as simple and static. There's an unrivalled tenderness to Luka Bloom's enchanting, earnest songwriting - his musical and lyrical delivery possesses that special charm. His deft, delicate touch on the six-string and distinguishable Irish lilt in his honeyed vocals draws you in immediately with the heartfelt opener `Primavera', from which the ensuing mood is set. And of course, there's a gentle dose of mellow instrumentals on Innocence to round out the album. The US version contains two exclusive bonus tracks that are not on the UK version - `Doing The Best I Can' and `I Am Not At War.! ' Bloom seems to always manage a sense of freshness with anything he puts his mind, voice and hand to, and Innocence beautifully captures the emotions of these purposeful messages by a master of his game.

Customer Reviews:

Like Fine Irish Whiskey.......2007-01-18

Luka Bloom is a rare thing indeed; a singer-songwriter that seems to improve with age. This is his tenth CD, and you would never guess that the first one on Reprise came out in 1990 ("Riverside"). "Innocence" is still fresh sounding and vital, with Bloom giving voice to emotions and characters in the grand folk-singer tradition.

Never one to shy away from a political topic, "Innocence" bears down hard with "I Am Not At War." He sweetly sings a line like "I don't need to be friends with everyone. I'd just like to live in peace with everyone," completely blowing off the fluffy notion of unity for a more pragmatic (and hence, realistic) vision. That sentiment is reflected in "No Matter Where You Go, There You Are" (despite the unwieldy title). The narrative of Mohammed, a Muslim refugee who flees Algeria rather than join the army then eventually finds spiritual peace in an Irishman's music, junks the stereotypes about Muslims with ease. It teaches a valuable lesson without leaving a preachy taste in your mouth.

Still, Bloom is an Irishman, and we Irish are an emotional lot. The title song and "Thank You For Bringing Me Here" address the heart with grace. Meanwhile, "Miracle Cure" casts a darker light on the same topic, while still asking forgiveness. Bloom covers all the bases here, and not a single song is a cast-off. I was lucky enough to see him touring behind this CD at World Cafe in Philadelphia, and you could feel the emotions welling in the room. He is a stunning performer, and "Innocence" is possibly his finest hour of music.

a beautiful vision of peace.......2007-01-10

INNOCENCE is a great low-key album, one of the best of 2006. While lacking any up-tempo dance-and-sing-along numbers like "Perfect Groove" and "Rainbow Day" from his superb BETWEEEN THE MOUNTAIN AND THE MOON album (2002), INNOCENCE is utterly fantastic, with the much-needed theme of peace, love, forgiveness and, yes, innocence. It's forgiveness that's the "Miracle Cure." The song "Innocence" is about a child's innocent religious faith, and an insight into Irish Catholicism.

Luka sings that "I am not at war with anyone," a great closing song for a lovely set of songs that restores, at least temporarily, the listener's faith in the potential of human beings to follow a higher spiritual path. Let us each do what we can in 2007 to bring about a world of peace, rather than what is a tragicomic oxymoron, a "religious war."

PEACE, SHALOM, SALAM, NAMASTHE

just gets better.......2006-06-15

I have been listening to Luka Bloom for years, have seen him in concert only once. I love this CD, he is always surprising yet still "himself" - love these songs, he just keeps getting better and better!

Full of Wonder, and Wonderful.......2006-05-26

Luka Bloom's new CD Innocence has been getting a work out in my iTunes the past couple weeks. I'm listening to it right this minute, as a matter of fact. And the more I listen to it, the more I love it. The new CD is understated, and quiet in places to the point where you might almost miss the power that is there in the lyrics, guitar and Bloom's rich voice. He says of the new record: "The whole story of this album is interesting and different. Life is an endless stream of challenges, and for this singer, the most important ingredient to hang on to is our innocence and wonder at the world". That sense of wonder is on display all over this album, with songs about such simple joys as the coming of Spring, a young girl's trip to the beach with her parents, the power of forgiveness and summer sunshine.

On Innocence, he moves effortlessly from songs that display the sense of humor that is often seen in a Luka Bloom penned lyric (Doing The Best I Can), to a simple, beautiful instrumental (Peace On Earth), to a really haunting version of his well known famine immigration ballad City Of Chicago. He tells a story of modern immigration into Ireland in No Matter Where You Go, There You Are. No stranger to political statements, he takes on The Iraq War in the beautiful I Am Not At War. No stranger to the music of the big world, he won't allow himself to be pigeoned-holed into an "Irish" sound. Listen to Gypsy Music and Venus and you'll see what I mean. And Bloom's song June reminds me of Van Morrison's classic Sweet Thing, and that can't be bad. This is one of those too rare records, for me anyway, that doesn't have a weak spot on it.

One of his best..........2006-04-20

I saw Luka Bloom last night in Seattle and bought the CD at the show. The show was fantastic and the CD hasn't stopped playing since. One of the best singer-songwriters of our day. Beautiful guitar and melodies.

Average customer rating:

Platinum Collection Luka Bloom Manufacturer: Wea/Warner ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Urban Folk | New Wave & Post-Punk | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Alternative Folk | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music Irish Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Britain | British Isles | Europe | International | Styles | Music Ireland | British Isles | Europe | International | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Folk Rock | Rock | Styles | Music Similar Items: Innocence Amsterdam Turf Salty Heaven Between the Mountain and the Moon ASIN: B000MV91TS Release Date: 2007-03-05

Tracks:

1. Delirious
2. Dreams In America
3. Fertile Rock
4. Gone To Pablo
5. You CouldnT Have Come At A Better Time
6. Hill Of Allen
7. I Believe In You
8. I Need Love
9. This Is Your Country
10. Acoustic Motorbike
11. CanT Help Falling In Love
12. Be Well
13. Diamond Mountain
14. Black Is The Colour
15. Holding Back The River
16. Background Noise
17. Sanctuary

Album Description

2007 collection of tracks by the Irish singer/songwriter, younger brother of Irish legend Christy Moore (Luka's birth name is Barry Moore). 17 tracks including 'Delirious', 'Gone To Pablo' and 'Dreams In America'. Warner.

Album Details

2007 Issued Digitally Remastered Anthology of Recordings by Younger Brother of Irish Folk Singing Legend Christy Moore who Crossed the Atlantic "Pond" the Escape his Brother's Shadow and Make his Own Mark on the Music World on his Own Terms.

Christian Music:

1. Bumble Bees, Pt. 1 [CD-single] [Import]
2. Castanets
3. Christmas Love Song [CD-single]
4. Christmas Waiting [Enhanced]
5. Concious Dream
6. Could I Have This Kiss Forever [CD-single] [Import]
7. Destiny
8. Don't Judge A Song By It's Title
9. Energy
10. Family Secrets

Christian Music

christian music

Christian Music

Broken Down Comforter Collection [Import]

Beethoven: Sinfonia No. 5; Concierto de Piano No. 5

Big House

Singing Pals from Kansas [Import]

Braindance Coincidence

Apurimac

Acustico 98 [Import]

Both Sides of the Brain [Explicit Lyrics]

Best of Ballroom: Bossa

Beethoven: Egmont Overture; Symphony No. 3 "Eroica"

An NPR Jazz Christmas with Marian McPartland and Friends

Amor de Media Noche

As the World Burns [Explicit Lyrics]

Bax: Sinfonietta; Overture, Elegy and Rondo

Music for the Movies of Clint Eastwood