Odyssey

1. Dance of the Valkyrie

2. Crystal Violet

3. Lunada Bay

4. Distant Passage

5. Obyssey

6. Transcendence

7. Harbor Lights

8. Cascade

9. Skyline Drive

10. Mist in the Glen

11. Blackhawk

12. Mystic Isle

Odyssey,Midnight Skye,Sda (Sound Designs),Contemporary Instrumental,New Age,New Age / Meditation,Pop,World Fusion

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Average customer rating: Wonderful melodies Hayley Westenra - Odyssey Very soothing very good pop singer voice Voice & level head deserve high marks

Odyssey Hayley Westenra Manufacturer: Decca ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Folk | Styles | Music Australia & New Zealand | International | Styles | Music Folk Songs | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music Orchestral Pop | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music $9.99 and Under | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Pop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Classical | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music International | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music $9.99 and Under | Prices | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Celtic Treasure Hayley Westenra - Live From New Zealand Lisa Celtic Woman - A New Journey: Live at Slane Castle, Ireland Walking in the Air ASIN: B000AXWHPI Release Date: 2005-10-18

Tracks:

1. Prayer
2. Both Sides Now
3. Never Saw Blue
4. Dell' Amore Non Si Sa
5. What You Never Know (Won't Hurt You)
6. May It Be
7. Quanta Qualia
8. You Are Water
9. She Moves Through the Fair
10. My Heart Belongs To You - Hayley Westenra
11. Ave Maria
12. I Say Grace

Album Description

Hayley Westenra's new album Odyssey was always going to be a different proposition to Pure, the record-breaking 2003 collection which marked her international debut. A lot has happened to the young New Zealander over the past two or three years--and those changes are clearly reflected by a record which encapsulates her growth from a budding teenage prodigy into a mature young woman.

Now, at 18, Hayley is ready to show the world how much she has grown up, both as an artist and as an individual. Fans of Pure will be pleasantly surprised by her new album. Her wonderful voice retains its crystal-clear purity, but Westenra's singing is now richer and more rounded than before. Touring the world and singing in some of its greatest concert venues, such as the Sydney Opera House, Royal Albert Hall, and Carnegie Hall, has worked wonders for her confidence. Suitably emboldened, she has embraced an even wider range of musical styles including classical, hymns, folk and pop.

"I was happy with Pure at the time, but I've moved on so much," says Hayley. "It's really exciting to have something new out there for people to listen to. I wanted to make a record that represented me as a person. And I think I've improved as a vocalist."

Variety is certainly one of the keywords with Hayley's new album. When she first entered a recording studio in New Zealand as a 12-year-old, Westenra restricted herself to classical pieces and show tunes. Now, in addition to impressive takes on classical works, Hayley uses her new album to perform an inspired cover of Joni Mitchell's "Both Sides Now" and has arranged and written much of the material. "I like to push myself, and I'm now confident enough to try different things. I have been much more involved behind the scenes with this album--I wanted to put my individual stamp on each song."

With her career stretching out promisingly before her, Hayley is also keen to continue experimenting. She is still primarily a classical crossover artist but she also wants to keep broadening those musical horizons. Three years after her international debut CD, Hayley Westenra is still pure: she exudes pure quality and she remains pure class--but her musical journey continues with her new album Odyssey.

Customer Reviews:

Wonderful melodies.......2007-06-08

This is a wonderful CD with beautiful melodies. Hayley Westenra has a very pure voice and sings right on key. The melodies are very relaxing and the musical settings are well arranged.

Hayley Westenra - Odyssey.......2007-06-08

Pure, crystalline, angelic voice. Gorgeously produced. "Prayer" is stunning. "Both Sides Now" wonderful. The rest is good but not her best song selection. When I first heard this girl on the "Celtic Woman" tour I was totally blown away. None of her CDs will disappoint!

Very soothing.......2007-05-14

Hayley Westenra's Odyssey is a very beautiful CD. If you switch on your walkman and listen to the CD's tracks non-stop, you'll soon feel like you're flying in Heaven. It's very soothing and heavenly. It calms you down, without causing you to feel lonely or sad because you're listening to it in solitary, like other vocal or classical songs do sometimes.

I would definitely recommend it to anyone interested. Quanta Qualia and Ave Maria are my most favourite tracks. Quanta Qualia is pure magic! I really feel as if I'm flying in Heaven when I listen to it.

very good pop singer voice.......2007-05-13

the selections were tasteful and varied. the singer has a very good pop singer voice. i would have liked some voice variation between songs. all were sung in exactly the same style. good singing but without tonal variation the disk tends to be bland. i hope that as she gets more exposure she will vary her voice to make the songs stand out individually instead of letting them blend into one song on the disc. i would rate this 5 stars except for that major fault.

Voice & level head deserve high marks .......2007-04-20

Not only has Hayley Westenra's voice remained "pure", but her good sense and sensibilty has stayed intact when so many similar young performers have gone over the deep end with extreme behavior and disreputable remarks. On this CD Miss Westernra covers a number of songs in her own special style, such as excellent versions of "Prayer", "May It Be" and "Both Sides Now". I hope to hear her renditions of more such tunes, old and new. I would like to hear her sing songs like "Yesterday", "I Still Believe in Love" and All I Know. She has a way with her soaring vocals that never lets the listener down.

Average customer rating: BUY! BUY! BUY! Great game - great music Hug your pillows girls best video game soundtrack ever. classical music listeners stop complaining

Halo 2, Vol. 1 Various Artists Manufacturer: Sumthing Else ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Movie Scores | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Anime & Video Game Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music Halo | Game Titles | Specialty Stores | Computer & Video Games Similar Items: Halo: Original Soundtrack Halo 2, Vol. 2 Halo, Books 1-3 (The Flood; First Strike; The Fall of Reach) The Art of Halo The Halo Graphic Novel ASIN: B00067RF6E Release Date: 2004-11-09

Tracks:

1. Halo Theme Mjolnir Mix
2. Blow Me Away - Breaking Benjamin
3. Peril
4. Ghosts Of Reach
5. Follow (1st Movement Of The Odyssey) - Incubus
6. Heretic, Hero
7. Flawed Legacy
8. Impend
9. Never Surrender - Nile Rodgers
10. Ancient Machine
11. 2nd Movement Of The Odyssey - Incubus
12. In Amber Clad
13. The Last Spartan
14. Orbit Of Glass
15. 3rd Movement Of The Odyssey - Incubus
16. Heavy Price Paid
17. Earth City
18. High Charity
19. 4th Movement Of The Odyssey - Incubus
20. Remembrance
21. Connected - Hoobastank

Amazon.com

Further proof that the 15-year-old male is the nexus of contemporary popular entertainment, this anthology of music from and "inspired by" the sequel to the earth-conquering Halo saga also showcases how capably the video game industry can trump even Hollywood's vaunted production values. The original synth-heavy underscore by Martin O'Donnell and Michael Salvatori is filled with enough brooding, mock-Goth atmospherics, and pulsing exotica of indeterminate ethnicity to give the Hans Zimmer stable a run for their money, while a slate of (mostly) worthy rock star guest turns give it a welcome edge. Legendary axe-slinger Steve Vai's sinewy riffing punches up the reworked main theme and "Never Surrender," while alt.metal contenders Breaking Benjamin serve up the suitably dramatic inspired-by cut "Blow Me Away." But it's Incubus' four-part "Odyssey" suite that's the centerpiece, bridging 1970s prog and modern rock with its moody aura and evocative musical dramatics. --Jerry McCulley

Customer Reviews:

BUY! BUY! BUY!.......2007-03-05

This CD stayed in my truck's CD player for months before getting tired of it. Enough said.

Great game - great music.......2007-01-10

My son wanted this Cd. I had never sat long enough to listen to the music when he played Halo, so I didn't have a clue what I was buying. He let me listen to some of the tracks once it arrived and I had to "borrow" it from him so I could download the cd onto my pc. Needless to say I bought volume 2 and the original Halo soundtrack cd as well. They may belong to my son, but I love these cds too!

Hug your pillows girls.......2006-08-06

THe only reason I am writing anything about this album is because it contains the Odyssey by Incubus, and its probably some of their best work and will go down as their most unnoticed. While the rest of your nerds are huggin your pillows at night thinking about your video games and the "gnarly instrumentals" on this album you sit there and bash Incubus' work. The first track by them, Follow, is not all that great however it was re-released on an additional cd with their Alive at Red Rocks DVD and it sounds sooooooo much better on that cd (with some real lyrics) But after listening to the Odyssey I was really hoping this to be a new direction for Incubus, a more proggressive/conceptual sound. Whether this is the direction they go on with their new album is yet to be heard. Its a shame that this work will go unnoticed, and the only reason it will be that way because a bunch of losers decide to try and impress people with (what they think) is a sense of music just because its of a classical nature. Yes, the rest of the music on the album is amazing, and I give big ups to its composition, but come on people, show some love to good music when its presented to your faces.

best video game soundtrack ever........2006-08-03

i understand that many people are a bit angry with breaking benjamin and hoobastank being in here. i'm not particularly happy myself with the last track, but i think contemporary music is appropriate here, albeit lyrics may not be the greatest form of expressing the mysterious feeling behind everything. i think o'donnel and salvatori have what it takes to compose a score of music, but it's not a score, it's a soundtrack. i found that if you don't like them you can just skip them. the second to last track is a great way to end the soundtrack.

classical music listeners stop complaining.......2006-05-10

The worst part of this album was songs with lyrics (breaking benjamin, techno, hoobastank)...i dont understand then why people are upset with the incubus - follow has one word the whole song (two if you count "yeah") and their instrumental songs are brilliant, floyd-esque at times. for those of you reading others criticizing this album, ignore them, ignore the three bad songs on this album, and purchase it and enjoy it.

Average customer rating: Another Best of Mehdi Delightful, Relaxing, Wonderful ! Nice, but not the best I've ever heard. Musical Nirvana - Where sound quality, artistry and composition come together. Gorgeous sound !

Instrumental Paradise Volume 8 Mehdi Manufacturer: SoothingMusic.Com ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | New Age | Styles | Music Similar Items: Instrumental Heaven Volume 7 Instrumental Evolution Volume 6 Instrumental Imagery Volume 3 Instrumental Escape Volume 5 Myths and Legends ASIN: B000PGQEIG Release Date: 2007-04-30

Tracks:

1. Steps To Paradise
2. Eternal Bliss
3. Guiding Light
4. Heavens Rain
5. Utopian Dance
6. Sacred Gathering
7. Blossoming Flowers
8. Connecting Prayer
9. Trees In The Breeze
10. Prayers Answered

Product Description

Have you ever heard music so beautiful that it captivated you, lifted you up and opened your heart and mind? As comfortable as a relaxing day on the beach or as fresh as a warm spring breeze, these rich multicultural soundscapes are the soundtrack to your dreams. It's the feeling of bliss that you wish would never end. This is the music of Mehdi. We call it, "Music that sounds the way life should feel".>>> Contemporary Instrumental: Piano, Acoustic Guitar, Violin, Cello, Flute, Live Orchestral Strings, Electric Guitar, Persian Oud, Sitar, Santoor, Hammered Dulcimer with Rhythmic Hand Percussion, Drum Kit all Placed in Lush Orchestral Arrangements.

Customer Reviews:

Another Best of Mehdi .......2007-07-06

"Every album should be called Best of Mehdi," another reviewer once said.
Amen. It's everything everyone says it is. And it was absolutely worth the wait.
Yes, good cover choice; love the white horse.

Where's our DVD, Concertmaster?

Delightful, Relaxing, Wonderful !.......2007-06-29

I also purchased this CD based on the reviews and I'm truly glad that I did. This is Mehdi at his best. I've only listened to it a a few times since I received it, but I know I'll be playing it often. It's especially nice in the car, because it brings the surrounding natural scenery to life. Recommended !

Nice, but not the best I've ever heard........2007-06-29

I bought this based on other review I read on Amazon cold-turkey. It's nice, but not up to the calibur of other albums I have in the same genra.

I wouldn't not recommend it, but I wouldn' rave over it either.

Musical Nirvana - Where sound quality, artistry and composition come together........2007-06-25

Power up the stereo. Turn the lights down low. Don the headphones and energize the CD player. Relax. It's time to enter a world of virtuoso musicianship, of soundscapes that take you to another world. Close your eyes and listen. You're no longer alone but surrounded by beauty and floating into Paradise. You move seamlessly between this world and the next, the music weaving a tapestry that transcends the distance and the times.

Mehdi's Instrumental Paradise is a special recording in that it captures the soul and essence of one of the great musical visionaries in our time.

Mehdi has been playing the piano since he could reach the keys and has composed music for many feature films prior to embarking on his Instrumental musical journey in the mid-90's. Mehdi's music (a mixture of Middle Eastern, Celtic, Greek, Southern European and Spanish or at times Moorish set to neo classical and more modern influences) defies the current practice of cataloging each artist into a standard category. Above all else, this is music for the adventurer in each of us.

Mehdi is the feature artist showcasing his wide-ranging Piano and mesmerizing original compositions. But this is by no means a one-person show. Flutist Dan Jenks, Violinist Tony Ragetti, Percussionist Yoshi Masayuki,Cellist Jesse Von Unwerth,Persian Oudist John Bilezikjian,Guitarist Michael Barbieri,Sitarist Daniel J Gupta are just a few of the virtuoso musicians on this master piece.
They add their tremendous musical talents to a recording that truly is more than the sum of its individual parts. Each of these musicians are talented masters in their own right and have recorded with Mehdi as well as other respected and diverse musicians ranging from Loreena Mckinnett to Yanni.

The sound quality of this recording is beyond reproach. The dynamics and spatial imaging of the recording deserve special mention. This truly is a recording without fault: Over 59 minutes of timeless excellence in sound.


Mehdi's spirituality seems to be as little understood as his music. He is a musical and spiritual adventurer. Each recording contains compositions that deal with a wide range of influences ranging from Christianity to Mysticism to Islam and other faiths. One should be careful in not labeling his beliefs as well as his music. Just listen, learn and enjoy.

If you enjoy artists such as Secret Garden, Loreena Mckinnett,Enya, David Lanz, Phil Coulter, Yanni, classical, Celtic and other world music, or if you are intrigued by a musical adventure, Mehdi's extraordinary Instrumentals should be on your short list of future musical purchases.

Gorgeous sound !.......2007-06-25

A DJ here in Austin insists on calling Mehdi, "The Jewel of public television." While many of his fans are probably jealous that there's actually a station here that gives him airtime (KGSR, 107.1 -- a near identical twin of KBCO Boulder, 97.3), I've patiently combed public TV listings for months, and never seen his name once. Woe is me!

Ever since some cognoscenti used a snippet of his "Wedding Song" as background on an episode of "Northern Exposure," I've been hooked on Mehdi's compelling blend of inspiring melodies and middle eastern rhythms. The California Native and his bandmates are wizards with their instruments. Volume 8 Instrumental Paradise is a must for any fan of Mehdi's music; and I can think of no better way for someone unfamiliar with his sound to become acquainted.

Average customer rating: great music, great reissue fantastic whoa. Great Music for Halloween, very creepy Bleakest of Futures...

2001: A Space Odyssey - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack (1996 Reissue) Manufacturer: Rhino / Wea ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Ballets | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music Waltzes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Khachaturian | Khachaturian, Aram | ( K ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Ligeti, György | ( L ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Strauss Jr., Johann | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Strauss | Strauss, Richard | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Tone Poems | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Requiems | Forms & Genres | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Ballets & Dances | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Requiems | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Movie Scores | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music Rhino Records | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music $7.99 and Under | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Pop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Soundtracks | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Classical | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music $7.99 and Under | Prices | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: 2001 - A Space Odyssey Stanley Kubrick's Clockwork Orange (1971 Film) A Clockwork Orange: Wendy Carlos's Complete Original Score The Ligeti Project II: Lontano / Atmosphères / Apparitions / San Francisco Polyphony / Concert Românesc - Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra / Jonathan Nott Psycho: The Complete Original Motion Picture Score ASIN: B0000033WB Release Date: 1996-10-29

Tracks:

1. Overture: Atmospheres - The Sudwesfunk Orchestra, Ernest Bour
2. Main Title: Also Sprach Zarathustra (Thus Spake Zarathustra) - The Vienna Philharmonic, Herbert Von Karajan
3. Requiem For Soprano, Mezzo Soprano, Two Mixed Choirs & Orchestra - The Bavarian Radio Orchetra, Francis Travis
4. The Blue Danube (Excerpt) - The Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra, Herbert Von Karajan
5. Lux Aeterna - The Stuttgart Schola Cantorum, Clytus Gottwold
6. Gayane Ballet Suite (Adagio) - The Leningrad Philharmonic Orchestra, Gennadi Rezhdestvensky
7. Jupiter And Beyond - The Bavarian Radio Orchestra, Francis Travis, The Sudwesfunk Orchestra, Ernest Bour, Internationale.
8. Also Sprach Zarathustra (Theme from 2001: A Space Odyssey) - Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra
9. The Blue Danube (Reprise) - The Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra, Herbert Von Karajan
10. Also Sprach Zarathustra (Theme from 2001: A Space Odyssey) - Sudwesfunk Orchestra
11. Lux Aeterna - The Stuttgart Schola Cantorum, Clytus Gottwold
12. Adventures (Unaltered) - Internationale Musikinstitut, Gyorgy Ligeti
13. HAL 9000 - Dialog Montage

Amazon.com

This commemorative reissue of music from 2001: A Space Odyssey combines the Also sprach Zarathustra theme, various Johann and Richard Strauss segments, and a ballet suite by Aram Khachaturian--all of which prove how much Stanley Kubrick's film attempts to avoid the soundtrack clichés of most science-fiction movies. Instead of the expected sci-fi effects, there is a more ironic application of music that would be otherwise incongruous to the celestial settings. Here, "The Blue Danube" complements scenes involving weightlessness and descending spacecraft, while Gyorgy Ligeti's creepy "monolith" music connotes Armageddon more than interplanetary exploration. The tracks play as they had appeared on the original soundtrack release back in the '60s, but there is also previously unreleased supplemental material and a dialogue montage entitled "HAL 9000." --Joseph Lanza

Customer Reviews:

great music, great reissue.......2007-04-16

This is a great collection of music and I love the great mastering job that was done with this. The inclusion of the tracks from the original MGM soundtrack release are a great bonus. The liner notes include interpretations of the film and the music that are insightful.

I noticed that the music in the movie is mixed in surround sound, it would be great if they could release this on DVD-Audio or SACD surround. I'd buy it again!

fantastic.......2007-03-11

I have the old lp release of this music, what an incredible array of classical music, topped off by my personal favorite piece of music in the world, the blue danube waltz. Let yourself be carried away in deep space by this incredible score.

whoa........2006-09-04

"Atmospheres" was enough to make me buy this album. just try to imagine what eternity might sound like. okay, now you know exactly what Atmospheres is. wow. who else could having captured the feelings that are in this score? this is above talented. this is above genius. this is above avand garde. this is too good to be labeled as anything at all.

Great Music for Halloween, very creepy.......2006-03-17

I bought this CD to use for a haunted house program, the music will creep you out.

Bleakest of Futures..........2005-10-08

The atonal, unsettling atmosphere of much of the music of Ligeti is fitting to the bleak vision of a human future reigned by nothing but cold technology and of humans drained of emotions except for the deepest animalist fear originating from our inner reptilian brainparts which have not changed for over millions of years. The incongruity of Johann Strauss' lovely 'An der schönen blauen Donau' with the cold technicality of spacefaring as depicted here could not be more complete, but what a perfect find on Stanley Kubrick's part! It makes the uneasiness and confusion even greater. And then, to top it of, the complete and flabbergasting irony of using Richard Strauss' Fanfare for the 'rise of Man' in his 'Also Sprach Zarathustra': what a great destiny for 'Man' indeed, this bleakest of bleak visions of the future!
As a soundtrack for '2001: A Space Odyssey' this music together on one album is just great.
And besides, this soundtrack has indeed, like so many others I guess, made me aware of the genius of Ligeti, which otherwise might have gone unnoticed for me.

Average customer rating: Austerity and beauty all mesh on "The Nine Worlds". Ambience Spectacular! Pretty nice music, a little bit short of Enigma. If you liked Enigma's "Cross of Changes"... Austere Ethereal Beauty

The Nine Worlds Achillea Manufacturer: Sequoia Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Electronica | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Le Spa Sonique Tempting the Muse Nuages du Monde A Posteriori Amadas Estrellas ASIN: B0009XT87Y Release Date: 2005-08-02

Tracks:

1. Achillea - Prelude
2. Ragnarok - Twilight of the Gods
3. Odins Hill
4. The Monks of Lindisfarne
5. Cape Porcupine
6. The Seeress Prophecy (Daydreaming)
7. Land of the Elves
8. Shears from Scar
9. The Nine Worlds
10. Staraja Ladoga
11. Othila - The Rune Masters
12. Achillea - Exodus

Album Description

From the co-creator of ENIGMA !

Highly acclaimed co-producer and guitarist of the multi-platinum group Enigma, Jens Gad brings you a spellbinding downtempo musical odyssey into the ancient mythology of his Scandinavian homeland. He is joined by the entrancing classical vocals of Helene Horlyck, to co-create a sophisticated and hypnotic chill-out journey through "The Nine Worlds" of archaic legend. At once stirring and calming, entertaining yet relaxing, Achillea achieves a vibrantly new and hauntingly beautiful musical vision that artfully blends evocative ambient New Age atmospheres with European dance club electronica. Achillea elegantly weaves the mystery of ancient myth - a world of seers, elves, and rune masters, into a lush, richly layered sonic landscape with velvety melodies of delicately bluesy guitar playing, slow sensuous grooves and silky smooth vocals sung in Latin and ancient Swedish. Both intimate and cinematic, this uniquely transcendent masterpiece is full of deep beauty and mysterious wonder that will nourish your soul.

"Achillea is the new project for producer/guitarist Jens Gad, co-producer, co-writer and one of the central creative forces behind popular group Enigma (alongside Michael Cretu). For his first solo project, Gad presents an atmospheric album of tunes themed after Danish myth. Enigma fans should definitely take note, as there are many common denominators between both groups: the same laid-back "Enigma-style" beats, Gregorian chant, whispery vocals and Gad's signature electric guitar. Achillea differs by offering an album steeped in dreamy ambience. This album slower paced and more ethereal, making it better suited for the mind than the dance floor. Adding to the appeal is the wispy, sensual vocals of singer Helene Horlyck, who sings on many of the tracks. Serene, slightly trippy and sure to bring on a bout of Enigma nostalgia, this is a must for worldbeat/chill music fans." - Music Design In Review

Customer Reviews:

Austerity and beauty all mesh on "The Nine Worlds"........2007-02-11

I was entranced by the debut release by artist Achillea. To my peasant surprise, I leanred that it is also a side project of Enigma's guitarist and in terms of side-projects, Achillea is almost as good as Enigma.

The debut album has a similar trademark to Enigma's album but the tracks stand out altogether with beauties like "Odin's Hill", "The Garden if Lisfaraine" and "Seeres Prophecy". Overall, "The Nine Worlds" is almost like a sequel to Enigma's third album from more than a decade ago.

This is highly recommended.

Ambience Spectacular!.......2006-11-27

I am a big fan of early Enigma and having found a first solo release by co-producer of Enigma's Jens Gad, I decided to purchase this release from Amazon.com. Jens is a superb handler of the guitar and it was a pleasure to hear his contributions on Enigma especially on 'Cross Of Changes' and the song 'Turn Around'. But it is good and fitting to see his first solo album be released, and whilst there is alot of similarity with Enigma, he brings to his album a more reflective, softer ambient driven sound that is both spiritual and refreshing. It is a nice chill-out album.

'Achilles' provides sweet and sensual beats with gregorian chants, soft guitar rifts, and a ethno-flavoured landscape. It should be noted that both Jens and his singer Helene are danish and this album is fashioned after numerous Danish folklore. Therefore you expect Danish lyrics and you do get a mixture of Latin and Danish with some English mixed in. All in all the mix is beautifully orchestrated and well-done.

The 12 tracks on this albums offers the listener pure music bliss, and it will take you on a journey that is much needed and is soul nourishing. There is no need to go through each track. This album will mean different things to all people who listen to it. Open your mind, have a open opinion and enjoy. I have and still do.

Pretty nice music, a little bit short of Enigma........2006-11-22

It's quite nice, althought definitely not an Enigma, the female voice is beautiful, but quite monotonous all across most of the songs. Still a good addition to one's New Age sound collection.

If you liked Enigma's "Cross of Changes"..........2006-11-14

Only now that I've heard The Nine Worlds do I appreciate how significant Jens Gad's influence was on the sound of Cross of Changes-era Enigma. The guitar style from that album's "I Love You, I'll Kill You" permeates, but never dominates this album, and I love it. The synth-based writing and arrangement styles are familiar as well. The title track, "The Nine Worlds," is something of a sonic "missing link" between the two albums, with a touch of chant, tablas, and a guitar sound one step closer to "I Love You, I'll Kill You" than the rest of this album.

The first Achillea song I heard was "Cape Porcupine". It remains my favorite song from the album, and is representative of what you'll hear throughout The Nine Worlds. Helene Horlyck's vocal stylings are featured on over half of the album's tracks, and she shares writing credits on those. Her high end is somewhat breathy, and has a piercing edge that frustrates my appreciation of her contributions, but the lower end of her range is beautifully smooth. "Othila - The Rune Masters" is a welcome exception, which I can only attribute to its guest writer/producer, John Tonks.

The Nine Worlds is a great listen for a bit, but there isn't enough variety to make it a really great album. I'm perfectly happy to listen to the whole thing passively, but when I'm listening actively, I typically only get through the first five or six songs ("Odin's Hill" is a highlight I never skip) before changing CDs. I would expect your affinity for The Cross of Changes to be a good indicator of how much you'll like The Nine Worlds.

Austere Ethereal Beauty.......2006-08-30

This album needs a few listens to allow its true beauty to unfold.
If you are after the lush percussive sensory smorgasboard of Enigma , you will be disappointed.

Put aside your preconceptions and open your mind to the pure spare instrumental arrangements accompanied beautifully by Helene Horlyks sublime ethereal vocals . Everything is pared back to a delightful minimalism that sometimes sounds so spacious that the songs seem otherworldly.

Definitely a match to the other great works of Delerium, Enigma , Amethystium etc

Average customer rating: It's OK Best Symphony X Ever! even if you think you wouldn't like this stuff Different bonus track for Japan A must have CD

Odyssey Symphony X Manufacturer: Inside Out U.S. ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Progressive Metal | Progressive | Rock | Styles | Music General | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Metal | Hard Rock & Metal | Rock | Indie Music | Stores | Music Progressive | Rock | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: V: The New Mythology Suite Divine Wings of Tragedy Paradise Lost Twilight in Olympus Damnation Game ASIN: B00006L83N Release Date: 2002-11-05

Tracks:

1. Inferno (Unleash The Fire)
2. Wicked
3. Incantations Of The Apprentice
4. Accolade II
5. King Of Terrors
6. The Turning
7. Awakenings
8. The Odyssey
9. Masquerade (Bonus Track)

Album Description

Import exclusive limited edition of the progressive metal act's 2002 album, includes the bonus track 'Masquerade.' Slipcase. InsideOut Music.

Customer Reviews:

It's OK.......2007-05-13

The music on this CD is really good; the guys in Symphony X are very talented. However, I outgrew all that jazz and nonsense about dragons and mystical eyes many years ago. I really don't like the lyrics on this CD. If I were to recommend better progressive rock music to listen to, I would say you should check out EVERYTHING that DREAM THEATER has ever done!

Best Symphony X Ever!.......2007-04-02

This album is epic. Accolade II, Awakenings, and The Odyssey are amongst the greatest songs i've ever heard. Go get this album now!

even if you think you wouldn't like this stuff.......2007-03-05

Ok, this was my intro to Symphony X, and an unexpected one.

It turned out to be one of those rare finds, the kind that stay in your mp3 player weeks on end.

Many of the other reviewers have covered this as well as I could. I just wish this band had better recognition in the States, they really deserve it on many levels - the musicianship, the music, the vocals, each and every member is a star and stands out.

For those that would dismiss this as another million-notes-a-minute act, there is really much, much more to these guys. The only thing I criticize them on is their limited catalog, and lack of a good DVD - bring more of it on guys, your break is coming!

But careful of this as your first SX album, it's great, and others are really good, but this is a tough act to follow.

Different bonus track for Japan.......2007-01-10

First off, this is a very good album, probably my 2nd favorite CD of the band beside "Divine Wings.....". The opening track Inferno (Unleash The Fire) might be one of the best power (not prog) metal songs of all-time, as Russell Allen sings his arse off. The Accolade II is better than the first (off of "Divine Wings....."), in my opinion. The re-make of Masquerade is infinitely better than the original, off of their first album. The title track is obviously very long, but is brilliant in some spots, and keeps your interest all the way through.

Anyway, just wanted to let you guys know there is a Japanese issue of this CD which has a 10th song, titled "Frontiers". It is very hard to find, but the song is nothing to write home about.

A must have CD.......2007-01-03

Symphony X is one of the best metal bands around. This CD is one of their best!

Average customer rating: One of the BEST Melodic Metal albums 3.5 stars - the first shakes of the Malsteen mission Beautiful metal Commercial, yes, but a masterpiece anyways. Legends arn't born every day

Odyssey Yngwie J. Malmsteen's Rising Force Manufacturer: Fontana Polydor ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock Guitarists | Rock | Styles | Music Shred | Rock Guitarists | Rock | Styles | Music General | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music Hard Rock | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Trilogy Marching Out Rising Force Fire & Ice Eclipse ASIN: B000001FOS Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

1. Rising Force
2. Hold On
3. Heaven Tonight
4. Dreaming (Tell Me)
5. Bite The Bullet
6. Riot In The Dungeons
7. Deja Vu
8. Crystal Ball
9. Now Is The Time
10. Faster Than The Speed Of Light
11. Krakatau
12. Memories

Customer Reviews:

One of the BEST Melodic Metal albums.......2007-02-16

Sure this is much more commercial than Marching Out, but several other reviewers fail to note that 'Trilogy' was very keyboard oriented and bridged the gap between 'Marching Out' and 'Odyssey'. Yngwie was changing his sound to fit the times and cranked out one serious masterpiece!

Joe Lynn Turner sounds absolutely amazing and Yngwie's playing is flawless. These are some excellent, hook-laden melodic rock tunes that need to be heard. I should also mention that the production on this album was heads and shoulders above the previous 3 albums!

3.5 stars - the first shakes of the Malsteen mission.......2006-08-15

Odyssey is a strange twist of an album. It always felt to me that this album had tracks that suited the excellent Trilogy (Rising Force, Riot in the Dungeons, Crystal Ball) and others that seemed totally out of place such as the excremental Heaven Tonight.

Had Malmsteens next album been comprised of rock of the likes of Hold On and Dreaming (Tell Me) this album could of been viewed as a transition, yet the studio LP that followed was Eclipse which was a very mainstream rock album, not at all like the weird time signatures of Hold On or the overly keyboard heavy Deja Vu and Crystal Ball. Which makes this album sort of stand out as out of synch with what followed and what came after.

This album - featuring the much maligned Joe Lynn Turner on vox - is NOT the place for the newcomer to start on their Yngwie collection. It is for those who tried and liked Trilogy and Marching Out and Eclipse and want to explore further. For fans there are some gems here, such as the aforementioned Riot in the Dungeons and the great album.gig opener Rising Force and the often overlooked Faster than the Speed of Light. The latter track flying pell-mell to it's conclusion, full of firey vocals and great guitar work. There are also a couple of worthwhile instrumentals hera nd the production by Malmsteen and Jeff Glixman is bright and sparkly - no return to the slightly broody production of Marching Out. A flawed album not without it's high points.

Beautiful metal.......2006-05-06

Odyssey and Marching Out tie for the best Malmsteen albums. I like Odyssey for the catchy, melodic songs that just keep begging to be played over and over. Marching Out was a metal slaughter-fest that just plain rocked.

Although a little cheesy in places, Odyssey is just fun to listen to. So many memorable lyrics and great riffs, I just wish the lyrics could have been a little stronger. And the sound quality is superb. Only two other CDs seem as crisp and clear to me: Metallica's "Garage, Inc." and Candlemass's self-titled album. Every note comes through perfectly and the music sounds "full" and complete. This CD wraps you in sound. Very nice.

Every song on Odyssey is a masterpiece. Even the slow, thoughtful songs still sound "heavy" enough, but the music is emotionally moving at the same time. And Joe Lynn Turner is at his best on this album.

Commercial, yes, but a masterpiece anyways........2006-04-21

This album arguably showcases Yngwie at the peak of his songwriting skills. Having shared the pen here with the gifted singer Joe Lynn Turner, the final result is a perfect mix of neoclassic-flavored shredding and soaring-but-radio-friendly melodic vocal lines. These are all great songs, whether you play them with a full backing band (like in the album) or just with a poor acoustic guitar. I guess that's what makes this album so transcendent to my ears: the songs in there stand on their own, no matter how they're played, and that certainly is a big plus.

In fact, what I like the most from this album is what many hardcore fans seem to hate. First of all, the change in style is a total success from a musical point of view, even if it's true that there's an explicit commercial intention. Secondly, Joe Lynn Turner does sound mellow, but he adds a lot of value to Malmsteen's music. Turner's perfect intonation and well-controlled voice is a present to anyone's ears. In addition, his huge range, expressiveness and beautiful tone are top notch. I list him in my top five vocalists of all times, really. Take for example the power ballad "Dreaming". Yeah, that's a love song and everything but... do you want a better example of "baroque & roll with tears"? Both Turner and Malmsteen gave the best from them on that song! Also listen carefully to "Hold On" - admittedly a very AOR theme. Do you want a better performance than *that*? Or take a look to the big arena rock airs on both "Heaven Tonight" and "Now is the Time". Ok, they sound tamed as hell, I agree... but you can't deny those also are two perfectly crafted pieces of music, aren't they? And all that is in big part possible thanks to the wonderful pipes of Joe Lynn Turner!

Anyway, if you liked "Marching Out" and "Trilogy" I don't think you should complain neither. There's also some material here for fans of the "more traditional" Yngwie - it's a commercial release, so it targets every taste, right? ;-) Thus, the opening "Rising Force" with its syncopated riffing, its power-metal-influenced melody and its frantic soloing is perhaps the perfect example of good old Malmsteen. Also "Riot in the Dungeons" sounds like the original Malmsteen we all love, as well as "Faster than the Speed of Light" and "Deja Vu" - though at a lesser degree in the later.

One thing is certainly missing in this album: a good instrumental. "Bite the Bullet" does show Malmsteen amazing tone and technique, but it's too short; and "Krakatau" lacks of melodic hooks, it's too thrashy, too rhythmic; and the solos sound like pure jam - amazing solos, yes, but they sound like completely self-complacent jamming. However, overall this is a masterfully interpreted and conceived release. It is the first time (in my records) that Yngwie dared to show us a slightly different side of his musical geniality. It was the first time he demonstrated he could evolve, perhaps thanks to the teamwork with Turner. That reason instantly takes a bow from me. It sincerely think "Odyssey" is the most refined and mature release from Yngwie Malmsteen, and that's why I give five stars to it. So, go for the most criminally underrated of all Malmsteen albums and give it a good try with wide open ears. I'm sure you won't regret it!

Legends arn't born every day.......2006-03-26

Yngwie Malmsteen had suffered an injury to his picking hand when he crashed his farrari, and also found out some record executives had swindled him bigtime. Fans wern't sure if his next album would hold up in the guitar god technique department... but the rest is history. This album blows flames out of the sides when you open it. The singer is the best ever, the keyboardist and drummer are twin brothers and Malmsteens chops and tone are holding the metal scene hostage with lethal weapons. He slaughters naysayers and burys them with taste. This is a five star neo classical extraviganza!!!

Average customer rating: Definitely better than #1 Great group Wow Solid but not very lasting Big step sideways

Odyssey Fischerspooner Manufacturer: Capitol ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Alternative Dance | Alternative Styles | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Electronica | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: #1 Light & Magic 604 Witching Hour LCD Soundsystem ASIN: B0007VZ97G Release Date: 2005-04-05

Tracks:

1. Just Let Go
2. Cloud
3. Never Win
4. A Kick In The Teeth
5. Everything To Gain
6. We Need A War
7. Get Confused
8. Wednesday
9. Happy
10. Ritz 107
11. All We Are
12. O

Amazon.com

Much has happened since 2002, when Fischerspooner released their breakout record #1. If that album's computerized fine art was a trip back to the '80s, another time warp might be necessary to sustain any momentum for Odyssey. The dance music muse, always in motion, has backed off on the electro/new wave sound that Warren Fischer and Casey Spooner used as a platform for their experimental live shows. Upon first listen, it sounds like the duo has chosen to ignore this; if Odyssey isn't a clone of #1, it's at least a close relation. There are, however, crucial and clever differences. The record is much friendlier for one thing, a result of warmer sonics and an unclenched pop sense that was only hinted at previously. "Just Let Go" starts off with a familiar Human League keyboard, but right in the middle of the chorus a jagged, garage band guitar riff smears the song's makeup. Suddenly you don't recognize them anymore. Where's that sexy, but vacuous pose Fischer and Spooner used to lean on? There's no pretension in a song like "A Kick in the Teeth," with its layered and lovely vocal line. Our cheese is now served straight up. The result? Tasty. --Matthew Cooke

Customer Reviews:

Definitely better than #1.......2007-02-18

I didn't really like #1 other than Emerge, but Odyssey proves without a doubt that Fischerspooner is going to stick around. I definitely see the similarities between A Kick in the Teeth and some Postal Service songs... It's a really beautiful song, and I think it should have been a single instead of Just Let Go.

Overall, the best tracks are Never Win and A Kick in the teeth, but Cloud, Get Confused, Just let go, and Happy are also really good. For some reason, Just let go kind of annoys me, because even though it's a really strong track, the best parts are the guitar riffs, but they're really short and underplayed, so the song just seems to be going in two different directions. I think their next album will be very interesting to hear.

Great group.......2007-01-16

This CD is great, if you like this album get their other ones they are just as good.

Wow.......2006-11-06

This has to be one of the greatest albums i have ever heard. It's so different and so good, I love how they have that techno 80's sound with modern alternative mixed with that pop/rock it's amazing, the album is amazing. I love all the songs, they're awesome, you should definitely get this cd, a highly recommended pick

Solid but not very lasting.......2006-11-06

This is fun music, well done, but doesn't reward repeated listening.

Big step sideways.......2006-04-16

Fischerspooner's "#1" is one of my favourite CDs of recent times. To describe the sound of #1 is like a love child of a cocaine fuelled catwalk model with an art school teacher (style and substance). So my expectations were pretty big for Fischerspooner's second album - "Odyssey".

Odyssey, for me, is a big shift sideways for Fischerspooner. They have pretty much thrown off their electroclash sounds from #1 in favour of a more 1980's Duran Duran / Flock of Seagulls sound. Not that it is a bad thing or anything!

"Just Let Go" - their first single of Odyssey can be a little deceptive. Just Let Go is a fast paced ditty about tsnamis or something - whereas the rest of the album is at a more casual but cool rate.

"Cloud", "We Need A War" and "Never Win" are definitely favourites. Fischerspooner have even enlisted the help of god producer Mirawis in a couple of tracks (who gives the whole rock-disco treatment in usual Mirawis fashion).

Overall - Odyssey, whilst big on ambition, falls somewhat short. Fischerspooner sort of run out of puff on a couple of tracks - thus it feels like a big step sideways for the band. But overall - this is highly recommended stuff.

Average customer rating: Excellent, Excellent compilation of songs! But NNY not original version! Odyssey They got the melody Hello???!!!! More than just "Native New Yorker"

Native New Yorker Odyssey Manufacturer: Collectables ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Disco | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | R&B | Styles | Music General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music General | Oldies | Pop | Styles | Music General | Dance & DJ | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Very Best Of Dr. Buzzard's Original Savannah Band Dr. Buzzard's Original Savannah Band Closer Than Close: The Best of Jean Carn The Best of Candi Staton Classic Masters ASIN: B00000095W Release Date: 1994-07-29

Tracks:

1. Native New Yorker (12in Version)
2. Weekend Lover (12in Version)
3. Don't Tell Me, Tell Her
4. Going Back To My Roots
5. Inside Out (12in Version)
6. Use It Up, Wear It Out (12in Version)
7. Together (12in Version)
8. Easy Come, Easy Go/Hold De Mota Down (12in Version)
9. I Got The Melody
10. Hold On To Love

Customer Reviews:

Excellent, Excellent compilation of songs! But NNY not original version!.......2007-01-03

I don't know why people keep thinking this is the original version of "Native New Yorker" because it's NOT. This is the 12" version of "Native New Yorker." From what I can remember, the original album version started out with a solo saxophone introduction which eventually led into the main song. It was a very short 5- or 10-second sax intro that led into the beginning of the song that is included on this album. I have the original LP and it's there plain as day, just FYI. The LP I have says "For Promotion Only" stamped in gold on the back. I sure wish the original LP was available on CD with the following songs:

SIDE A
Native New Yorker
Ever Lovin' Sam
Weekend Lover
You Keep Me Dancin'
The Woman Behind The Man

SIDE B
Easy Come Easy Go
Hold De Mota Down
Golden Hands
Thank you God For One More Day

The album was produced by Sandy Linzer and Charlie Calello. Management and direction was by Tommy Mottola. The Album was recorded at The House of Music in West Orange, New Jersey. It was released on RCA records in 1977, with a catalog number of APL1-2204. The original beautiful art work was done by Ted Coconis.

The musicians on the album were:
Bass: Will Lee and Gordon Edwards
Guitars: John Tropea, Jeff Mironov, Eris Weissberg, Cornell Dupree, Hughie McCracken
Keyboards: Pat Rebillot, Richard Tee, Charlie Calello
Drums: Ron Tierno, Charles Collins, Terry Silverlight
Percussion: Sandy Linzer
Trumpets: Randy Brecker, Lew Soloff
French Horn: Jim Buffington, Fred Griffin
Reeds: George Marge, Michael Brecker
Vibrapohone and Marimba: Dave Carey
Bass Trombone: David Paylor
Trombone: Tony Studd
Concertmaster: Manny Greene
Additional Singers: Susan Collins, David Lasley, Arnold McCuller
Kids: Stephanie Linzer, Bobby Linzer, Tony Selco, Charlie Calello Jr., Monique Calello.
Engineers: Jeffrey Kawalek, Jim Bonnefond, and Charlie Conrad
Mastered by: George Marino at Sterling Sound Studio, NYC

All songs copyrighted by Featherbed Music 1977.

Odyssey.......2006-12-21

Native New Yorker" and "Inside Out" are my favorite songs on this disc. It's a good value for the Money - Oh yes, to "Bighrv (San Francisco)," "Native New Yorker" on this disc is the "original" album version! Just letting you know...Five stars for this disc!!

They got the melody.......2006-10-23

A great disco band, they were best known for the hits "Native New Yorker" and "Use It Up, Wear It Out", but the 1981 ballad "I Got The Melody" is probably the most beautiful song the group ever recorded.

Hello???!!!!.......2006-02-28

I love Odyssey.Especially "Native New Yorker" "Inside Out" and "Don't tell me,Tell her".But.... am I the only one tripping or did anybody else notice that those are not the ORIGINAL VERSIONS.I don't know about anyone else but I NEED the Original versions.

More than just "Native New Yorker".......2005-10-03

Yes, "Native New Yorker" is the song everybody knows, but Odyssey had more good tunes than just that one. "Don't Tell Me, Tell Her" was a smash radio hit back in 1979 on New York's two disco radio stations, WBLS and WKTU. "Use it Up, Wear it Out" was Odyssey's biggest hit in England, hitting the No. 1 spot on the pop chart! And "Inside Out" is a dance floor favorite as well. It's great that the 12" single versions are included on this CD. But the whole CD is worthwhile. Don't sell Odyssey short just because the mass public only knows "Native..."

Average customer rating: Putamayo Presents Greece: A Musical Odyssey They gave us the word 'odyssey' Excellent collection with some unique and great songs from Greece Fantastic! My Greek Students LOVE IT! (So do I.) Polee' Kala'

Putumayo Presents Greece: A Musical Odyssey Various Artists Manufacturer: Putumayo World Music ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Folk | Styles | Music Greece | Continental Europe | Europe | International | Styles | Music General | Continental Europe | Europe | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music Mexico | International | Styles | Music International | Putumayo World Music Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Latin Music | Putumayo World Music Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: A Mediterranean Odyssey: Athens To Andalucia Mondo Greece Putumayo Presents: Italian Café Putumayo Presents: Turkish Groove French Cafe ASIN: B00022LS8O Release Date: 2004-06-29

Tracks:

1. To Parelthon Thimithika - Apenanti With Melina Aslanidou
2. Eleni - Kostas Mantizios
3. Pino Pino - Anastasia Moutsatsou
4. Sou Axize Mia Kaliteri Agalia - George Dalaras
5. An Iparhis Kapou Esi - Elly Paspala
6. Ragizi Agapo - Pantelis Thalassinos
7. Arnisi - Melina Kana
8. An M' Agapas, Tha S' Agapo - Pantelis Thalassinos
9. Ela Mia Nichta - Theodosia Stiga
10. Ah, Feggaraki Mou - Sofia Papazlou & Gerasimos Andeatos
11. Ta Ziliarika Sou Matia - Glyeria
12. Exinta Dis Dolaria - Kostas Makedonas

Amazon.com

Because it focuses on some of the country's most commercially successful artists of the last two decades, this smoother-than-usual Putumayo sampler of contemporary Greek music will disappoint listeners in search of the kind of joyous party ambiance you may find in a touristy Athens taverna. The mellifluous strains of the traditional bouzouki are a constant presence, but the twelve songs here boast the sophisticated arrangements and lilting melodies of European pop at its cosmopolitan best. A somber ballad with touches of accordion, veteran singer/songwriter George Dalaras' "Sou Axize Mia Kaliteri Agalia" dazzles you with an opening line of exquisite irony ("I don't care/Who you're listening to this song with tonight") while the raspy vocals of Glykeria turn "Ta Ziliarika Sou Matia" into a visceral anthem of romantic obsession. Songs by lesser known artists such as Kostas Makedonas and Theodosia Stiga are equally compelling. A few serious omissions: the endearingly anarchic Dionisis Savopoulos, the Middle-East-meets-techno shenanigans of Ana Vissi and the delicate ballads of Arleta--the Greek equivalent of Joni Mitchell. --Ernesto Lechner

Customer Reviews:

Putamayo Presents Greece: A Musical Odyssey.......2007-01-06

Very good CD with good music and original old songs. Verry happy with this C/D

They gave us the word 'odyssey'.......2006-12-30

Putumayo's excellent "Athens to Andalucia" whet my appetite for Greek music with its three songs from Glykeria,George Dalaras&Anemos.It was a brief,tantalizing taste,and I waited patiently for Putumayo to release a Greek compilation.Luckily,it did.

Greece is the cradle of Western civilization,with Plato,Aristotle,Aristophanes&Sophocles--and they have great contemporary music."Greece:A Musical Odyssey" is an enjoyable journey through contemporary Greek folk/pop music.It's perfect for relaxing with baklava,ouzo&dolmas.

Highlights-
1)Eleni-Not everybody has read Homer's "Iliad." Considering the state of education,most teenagers haven't read this classic.Kostas Mantzios sings a beautiful song about Helen,the most beautiful woman in the world who caused the Trojan War.He breathes new life into an ancient legend.
2)Pino Pino-A joyful little song comparing love with wine.
3)Sou Axize Mia Kaliteri Agalia-With a reggae beat&an accordion,George Dalaras sings an ironic love song.
4)Ragizi Apopse-A lilting,folksy song about heartbreak.It's one of Children of the Revolution's more traditional song.
5)An m'agapas,tha s'agapo-Very melancholy and beautiful.Pantelis Thalassinos has long hair like Yanni,but makes better music.
6)Ela Mia Nichta-A frothy,spritely song though it is about loneliness.
7)Ah,feggaraki mou-A celebrity duet,but a lovely one.

"Greece" is one of Putumayo's best European compilations (along with "Music from the Wine Lands"&"Euro Lounge")If you want to try different European music,give this album a spin!

Excellent collection with some unique and great songs from Greece.......2006-12-19

Although I'm from Greece, i usually don't listen to Greek music. I gave this compilation a shot because the Putumayo series are usually far above the average and tend to be excellent :) . I wasn't disappointed! This CD contains some really great songs, which have never been in the same album before. It's not about music to dance, it's about music to listen and relax or sing along. A bit of ethnic, a bit of world and a bit of Greek of course :) All ethnic music fans should listen to this...

Ok, not all of the songs are that good but as a compilation it's surely worth buying and listening. Some of the best songs are: "Eleni", "Pino Pino", "Ragizi Apopse" and "To Parelthon Thimithika" .

Fantastic! .......2006-11-04

My husband is a lover of all things Greek. He vacationed there every year for at least 10 years and we spent three weeks once traveling through Greece. This CD makes us feel like we're back in a Taverna enjoying the sights and sounds of Greece. We love it and even the kids enjoy listening to it.

My Greek Students LOVE IT! (So do I.) Polee' Kala'.......2006-03-10

I'm teaching Greek at an elementary school, and play this disc for the students while they take notes, etc. We all love it! Back at home, my own kids spin this disc nearly every day. Very relaxing, uplifting and romantic. Putamayo does a great job with these compilations. Efharistoh!

Meditation Music:

1. One Night in Vienna
2. Out of Hand
3. Personal Prayer: God In Me
4. Piano Solos
5. Planetary Chronicles, Vol. 2
6. Pure Moods
7. Redbook Relaxers: Lullabies
8. Retrospective
9. Rooftops
10. Roses in the Sky

Meditation Music

meditation music

Meditation Music

But I Feel Good Pt.1 [CD-single] [Enhanced] [Import]

Music Review: !Estatico!

Dive & Fly

Music: Classicworks: Master Strokes/Various

Henry Fool: A Film By Hal Hartley - Original Soundtrack [Soundtrack]

I'm Out 2 Stoages

Escape [Enhanced] [SACD]

Heartbreak Stroll [CD-single] [Import]

Collection [Import]

Frédéric Chopin: The Romantic Piano

Gods and Devils

In Extremis

Feel Me Flow [CD-single] [Explicit Lyrics]

Blues Is King

Homesongs