Masquerade

Masquerade

Track Listings

1. Contract/The Crypts of Hades

2. Masquerade

3. Demonized

4. Black Soul

5. Lions of the Sea

6. Rebel at Heart

7. Wheel of Doom

8. Metalhead

9. Soleil Royal

10. Men in Black

11. Underworld

12. Iron Head [*]

13. Bones to Ashes [*]

Tracks:

Overture
Think Of Me
Angel Of Music
The Mirror (Angel Of Music)
The Phantom Of The Opera
The Music Of The Night
Prima Donna
All I Ask Of You/Reprise
Entr'acte
Masquerade
Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again
The Point Of No Return
Down Once More.../Track Down This Murderer

Amazon.com

Highlight versions of cast recordings are by definition a compromise, and this reduction of Andrew Lloyd Webber's Phantom of the Opera is no exception. Weighing in at 59 minutes, it's over 40 minutes shorter than the two-disc version, excising many musical scenes that convey the flow and impact of the show (which include, admittedly, a lot of patter and screaming). On the other hand, all the hits are here--"Think of Me," "Angel of Music," the title tune, "The Music of the Night," "All I Ask of You," "Masquerade," and "Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again"--and Michael Crawford and Sarah Brightman are still on hand to make their distinctive contributions to the original London cast. So if you're looking for a convenient, inexpensive single disc that will let you enjoy Lloyd Webber's scrumptious melodies without having to immerse yourself in the action, this just might be for you. --David Horiuchi

Customer Reviews:

Music of the Night????????.......2007-02-28

I really liked the idea of a highlights cd; however, The Music of the Night is not the same one that is on the original two-disc cd. The words aren't even the same. If you enjoy Music of the Night, skip this cd. Otherwise, this cd would be 5 stars.

Great short version!.......2006-12-06

If you only want to hear the songs from this musical, this one is for you. But if you want the full version, get the 4-disc version. I listen to this version in my car when I'm on the road, but I listen to the 4-disc version at home. Both versions are worth the purchase.

A long time favorite.......2006-08-26

This is one of my most treasured CDs. The voices of the cast are incredible! "Think of Me" and "All I Ask of You" are 2 of my favorites. If you enjoy the story behind Phantom, yu will like this soundtrack.

The Best Recording of this Show Available.......2006-04-21

I think that this is the best PHANTOM soundtrack out there:

1)It has the original Broadway cast, the best.
2)It cuts out the more risqu? parts of the show (believe me, there are some), making it "appropriate for the whole family."
3)The entire CD is on one disc, so you can go through the show w/o switching discs.
4)The only song that the movie soundtrack has on it that this doesn't is "Learn to Be Lonely," which appears in the credits, and isn't really a great song anyways.

Great CD.......2006-03-14

I bought this CD as a birthday gift for my boyfriend. We had misplaced the one that we had and needed a new one. This is one of our favorite cd's. Such beautiful music.

Barber: Concerto for violin Op14; Korngold: Much Ado about Nothing Op11

Average customer rating:

Fan of Classical String Music
great performance, substandard recording
One Of Gil Shaham's Best Concerti Recordings
Excellent music.....Excellent performance.....
Barber/Korngold - Shaham/Previn, REALLY GOOD!

Barber: Concerto for violin Op14; Korngold: Much Ado about Nothing Op11

Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Barber, Korngold, Walton: Violin Concertos

ASIN: B000001GLX
Release Date: 1994-08-16

Tracks:

Concerto For Violin And Orchestra Op. 14: 1. Allegro
Concerto For Violin And Orchestra Op. 14: 2. Andante
Concerto For Violin And Orchestra Op. 14: 3. Presto in moto perpetuo
Concerto For Violin And Orchestra In D Major Op. 35: 1. Moderato nobile
Concerto For Violin And Orchestra In D Major Op. 35: 2. Romance: Andante
Concerto For Violin And Orchestra In D Major Op. 35: 3. Finale: Allegro assai vivace
Much Ado About Nothing - Suite Op. 11: 1. The Maiden In The Bridal Chamber - Lento - Molto moderto, With Charm And Grace
Much Ado About Nothing - Suite Op. 11: 2. Dogberry And Verges. March Of The Watch - In The Tempo Of A Grotesque Funeral March
Much Ado About Nothing - Suite Op. 11: Scene in the Garden - Molto espressivo
Much Ado About Nothing - Suite Op. 11: Masquerade: Hornpipe - Animato

Amazon.com

There have been so many great recordings of all of the important masterpieces that critics and listeners are often justified in thinking that there's no point in recording them yet again. Then along comes a recording like this one, which revives one's faith in the future of classical music. Gil Shaham is competing with classic performances by Isaac Stern in the Barber, and Jascha Heifetz in the Korngold. And he's as good as either of them, not to mention far more impressively recorded. In particular, the Korngold Concerto--a masterpiece just now coming into its own--has never sounded so resplendent. What a great disc! --David Hurwitz

Customer Reviews:

Fan of Classical String Music.......2007-07-22

Since I am somewhat clumsy and rather slow with this computer, I was delighted to:
1- Find on Amazon Samuel Barber's Violin Concerto.
2-The price was ok.
3- To place an order for the CD and it was delivered within 5 days.
4-Note that no local retail outlets sell classical music. I would burn several gallons of gasoline to find a store. Probably if I got there, the CD would not be available.
5-The quality of Gil Shaham's treatment on the violin of Barber's concerto was first class.
6-I recommend this disc. I make no claim to being a music critic.

great performance, substandard recording.......2006-10-15

While I would agree with the other reviewers that this performance is excellent, there are definitely some issues with it. Let me preface this with that I am a classical sound engineer, and have much experience with this repertoire in the recording environment.

To begin, there are some real dynamics problems with this recording. Its as if the orchestra was recorded using overzealous compression while the soloist was placed front and center with artificially exaggerated levels. I am sure the other reviewers would have to admit that Mr. Shaham was placed way to forward in this recording. His violin sounds enormous!

Second, and this is very curious considering this was a studio recording, Mr Shaham's violin begins to go out of tune in the second movement. It is only the lower strings, but it is very evident to my ears-this resolves itself as the music climbs higher, but I am shocked that no one stopped the recording session to address this.

I will say that the performance is excellent, particularly the conducting, as the dynamics in the score, especially at the end of the second movement, are very well articulated by Mr. Previn. While Mr. Shaham is excellent, I feel the emotions of this piece, for whatever reason, are better served by a female player. I have seen Hilary Hahn perform this piece live, and I believe she understands the intentions of Barber to the letter.

All in all, a very good effort by the performers, a seriously questionable effort by the recording company and especially those overseeing this recording session.

One Of Gil Shaham's Best Concerti Recordings.......2004-02-15

Without question this is one of Gil Shaham's best recordings of violin concerti. Historically it may be the most important since he makes a very persuasive case for including Korngold's violin concerto as part of the standard repertoire of stellar solo violinists of which he is unquestionably one. Both violin concerti are among the most lyrical ever composed, and Shaham brings both immaculate technical skills and soulful, graceful playing in his highly commendable performances of both work. Andre Previn leads the London Symphony Orchestra in superb performances of the orchestral scores. However, the real treasure on this recording has to be Previn's duet with Shaham in the Korngold score that concludes this CD. It's some of the most inspirational playing of 20th Century music by a violinist and pianist I have heard. The sound quality is absolutely first rate.

Excellent music.....Excellent performance............2003-12-28

This is the third cd that I had a chance to feel Barber's sentimental music...First was the Adagio for Strings..second was the songs of Barber and the last one the violin concerto...the cd that follows the other always made my love stronger for the Barber's music...But this violin concerto has a different place in my heart...it is a modern era music but you feel it like you are listening a late romantic era composer's music...the work is based on Lyricism and virtuosity...music is wonderful especially in the second movement...and I offer you to listen carefully the 1st movement's 3rd minute's 31st second...a bow pulled with a lot of sentiment...he is not pulling it with his hand...he is doing it with his heart...Gil Shaham is a very talented young violinist...technique is perfect...he plays so clean...no dirty notes heard...and his feeling adds more to his perfect performing...There is not too much to say about the orchestra and the conductor...I think you know about them...If you don't??? meet them in this performance...
even if you are not a fan of Barber or you are not into his music this Cd is highly reccomended...

M. Can EL

Barber/Korngold - Shaham/Previn, REALLY GOOD!.......2003-09-05

Yes, FIVE-STARS but I warmed up to this album slowly. I knew I liked SOME of Barber's music but I had to listen to the violin concerto several times before I really heard it. THEN, I realized it is such a wonderful work, played uncommonly well. The Korngold concerto is VERY inventive, as well. However, the work that just KNOCKED ME OVER was the "Much Ado About Nothing" suite by Korngold. The combination of some of the loveliest composing EVER with Previn's dead-on accompanying and Shaham's uncanny genius was SOOOOO satisfying. You won't EVER hear anything more lovely than that "In the Garden" section. Because of the composers but also because of the musicians, I think a music-lover would LOVE and even ADORE this CD!

Average customer rating:

Top of the line
5 stars
superb masterpiece
Fantastic progressive music

The Masquerade Overture
Pendragon
Manufacturer: Snapper Classics UK
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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The World
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ASIN: B0007YNRRM
Release Date: 2005-05-31

Tracks:

The Masquerade Overture
As Good As Gold
Paintbox
The Pursuit Of Excellence
Guardian Of My Soul
The Shadow
Masters Of Illusion
The Last Man On Earth (Live)

Customer Reviews:

Top of the line.......2007-01-05

I never thought I would find these days a CD of a new group made with such a high quality music. It reminded me so much of the 70's and 80's great groups in this type of music such as the old Genesis, Pink Floyd, Trace, Jethro Tull. I am very excited to find out how the rest of their CDs are. From begining to end, the concept of the CD, the lyrics and the music are fantastic and the performance is outstanding.

5 stars.......2006-02-25

This is an excellent CD. From start to finish the music is awesome. Great musicianship. I highly recommend it, as well as "The World" and "Window of Life". If you like Marillion or IQ you will like this.

superb masterpiece.......2005-06-14

I bought the album in 1997 and I still enjoy it a lot. This has become for me a classic album like Pink Floyd Wish you were here or Genesis Trick of the Tail if you know what I mean. You have 2 fantastic music composers here: Clive Nolan and Nick Barret. Thus, very strong compositions and accessible enough even for non prog lovers too. Long tracks with catchy sections.

This is symphonic melodic prog music from the first piece to the last. For those who already know Pendragon, this album is as good as "The World" or "Window of life". This is also their best selling album (at least before "Not of this world" come out).

See on the DPRP progressive music site for critical review and more details.

Fantastic progressive music.......2005-06-13

I bought this album in 1997 and I still listen to it because the music is incredible from the beginning to the end.If you like progressive music like I do you will NOT be disappointed. Long very melodic songs with very talented musicians (who play also in another prog bands from time to time). For those who knows already Pendragon, Maquerade overture compares with "the World" and "window of life" CDs. Go to http://www.dprp.net/reviews/pendragon/index.html#mo for more on Pendragon albums review...

Average customer rating:

Danni's back to her country roots and better than ever!
Danni's fourth and best album!!

Masquerade of a Fool
Danni Leigh
Manufacturer: Universal
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD
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ASIN: B000OIOG9O
Release Date: 2007-05-14

Tracks:

Quarter Over You
I Thought Forever Was a Long, Long Time
History Will Decide
I Can Help You Find Your Heart
Masquerade of a Fool
Shame on Me
So Called Friend
Damned If I Do
Was It Worth It to You
Day by Day
Unfinished Kiss

Album Details

With her New Album "Masquerade of a Fool" Danni Leigh Returns to her Roots. With her Patented Whiskey Drenched Vocal Delivery Echoing Country Music's Greatest Traditionalists Danni Continues with the Neo-honky-tonk Album Where "29 Nights" (Decca/Universal) Ended. Danni Leigh Put Together a Collection of her Favorite Original and Unreleased Songs, Recorded in Nashville, Tn. All Songs Are Co-written by Danni Leigh Together with Some of the Finest Songwriters of Today's Country-scene Such as Big Kenny (Big and Rich).

Customer Reviews:

Danni's back to her country roots and better than ever!.......2007-07-10

What a fantastic cd this is. If you are a fan of Danni's you have to add this to your collection. True country music at it's best. Danni has a such a beautiful, sultry voice and every song on this cd is sung with so much emotion you can feel the heartbreak. Her voice really stands out loud and clear. The arrangement of her songs are great too. My favorites are "Quarter Over You", "Shame On Me", "Mascarade of A Fool", "So Called Friend", "Damned If I Do" and " I Can Help You Find Your Heart". " Damned If I Do" has a touch of jazz. Big Kenny (of the great Big & Rich) co-wrote "Day By Day" which has a smooth, lighter feel to it than the others . "Unfinished Kiss" (the last song on the cd) has a bluesy, chuggin' whiskey, southern hard rock feel to it, kind of like the Allman Brothers Band. WOW... what a great song to finish the cd with. You will want to get up and dance to some of the turbo tonkin' tunes, and some of the slow songs may remind you of a past love. I am a HUGE fan of Danni's and have been for many years. I have all of her cds and this is already my favorite! Country on forever Danni Leigh!

Danni's fourth and best album!!.......2007-07-07

Wow!! Danni's fourth album is nothing short of awesome. Her attempt to return to true country music has been realized. The songs on this album have ringings of Patsy Cline and famous others of days gone by. While her first three albums will continue to be cherished, this one is a distinctly different Danni; one her fans (you know who you are!!) as well as other true country folks will want to add to their collections. Thanks Danni for a long overdue cd (you can come home now!!!!).

Average customer rating:

The original vinyl is an ancient memory...
If Buddy could hear the music now
Honky Tonkin'
Terrific Texas Music and Essential
Joe Ely's Country-Rock Masterpieces

Joe Ely/Honky Tonk Masquerade
Joe Ely
Manufacturer: Bgo - Beat Goes on
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Live at Antone's
Lord of the Highway
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West Texas Waltzes & Dust-Blown Tractor Tunes

ASIN: B00004U682
Release Date: 2000-09-11

Tracks:

I Had My Hopes up High
Mardi Gras Waltz
She Never Spoke Spanish to Me
Gambler's Bride
Suckin' a Big Bottle of Gin
Tennessee's Not the State I'm In
If You Were a Bluebird
Treat Me Like a Saturday Night
All My Love
Johnny's Blues
Cornbread Moon
Because of the Wind
Boxcars
Jericho (Your Walls Must Come Tumbling Down)
Tonight I Think I'm Gonna Go Downtown
Honky Tonk Masquerade
I'll Be Your Fool
Fingernails
West Texas Waltz
Honky Tonkin'

Album Description

UK reissue combines the country outlaw's first two albums, ' Joe Ely' (1977) and 'Honky Tonk Masquerade' (1978), together on one CD. 2000 release. Standard jewel case.

Album Details

Digitally Remastered 2-On-1. One of the Clash's Favorite Rocker's First Two Brilliant Albums from his Progressive Country Days. Includes 'I Had My Hopes Up High', 'Fingernails' & 'West Texas Waltz'. Features Butch Hancock.

Customer Reviews:

The original vinyl is an ancient memory..........2006-03-04

...but Joey's early music is timeless. Alternately simple and musical, toe-tapping and lyrical, or occasionally loud and rockin', Ely's early band did a little bit of it all. But the predominant styles are rockin' honky-tonk and ballads.

Looking back on it now, living in Lubbock when Joey and the boys first took flight was a distinctly treasured time. Whether at the old Cotton Club on Highway 84, or the long defunct (and always funky) Fat Dawg's on 4th Street, his band never failed to bring the house down. Just like Stevie Ray Vaughn at Stubb's B-B-Q on east Broadway, as good as Joey's early recorded music is, it only hints at the foot-stomping jaw-dropping good-timing sessions his crew could lay down in a small club atmosphere.

As mentioned elsewhere, Jesse "Guitar" Taylor and Lloyd Maines each made their presence well-felt while Joey belted out the vocals. Lloyd's pedal steel wailed when called upon. Before hearing Lloyd, I used to think the only electrified guitar worth listening to hung from a shoulder. And the accordian-squeezing land surveyor P. Bone always added just enough funkiness to the mix so that you didn't completely lose your head. Guest appearances by other local talent, including my ex-boss, Tommie Anderson (may he rest in peace), always added a little bit of variety to make each show unique. You always knew where you were eventually gonna' get to with Joey, you just never quite knew exactly how.

It's too bad they won't let you listen to the samples here. This studio disc captures what it can of that early Ely music, and it's still a favorite. The two-fer is a great deal. Buy it, listen to it a couple times with a beer or two in tow, and just try not to smile. Go ahead and sing along...it won't hurt ya'.

If Buddy could hear the music now.......2006-02-26

Rockabilly/Country-Western-Swing/Tex-Mex. It's all here. Combining the past with the present. It's like Bob Wills teaming up with Buddy Holly and Doug Sahm. And anybody can dance to it, even if you don't have rhythm in your heel's. Texas music at it's best

Honky Tonkin'.......2005-07-14

Ex. Flatlander Joe Ely is one of the most important country artists ever. When the Flatlanders (Butch Hancock, Jimmie Dale Gilmore and Joe Ely) broke up, he went solo and first two albums that are featured on this cd (Joe Ely and Honky Tonk Masquerade) are fabulous. Ely wrote most of the songs and included few songs of Butch and Jimmie Dale. So here you can find such classics as Hancock's She Never Spoke Spanish To Me, Tennessee's Not The State I'm In, If You Were A Bluebird (later covered by Emmylou Harris), Gilmore's Treat Me Like A Saturday NIght and Ely's own compositions like Fingernails, I Had My Hopes Up High...
Honky Tonk Masquerade was picked by Rolling Stone as one of the best albums of the 1970s. This disc contains some of the best work Joe Ely has done.

Terrific Texas Music and Essential.......2003-07-28

This disc is a great bargain because you get two fantastic albums on one. The out-of-print album "Joe Ely" contains a number of fine songs, including "If You Were a Bluebird," "Treat me Like a Saturday Night," and "Tennessee's Not the State I'm In." Several songs were written by Butch Hancock and one was written by Jimmie Dale Gilmore, both of whom were in the Flatlanders with Ely. A great album!

"Honky Tonk Masquerade" is even better, though. It's songs are full of rich imagery and a sound that mixes honky tonk, Tex-Mex and rock and roll into a satisfying brew all its own. I never get tired of listening to these albums. And with both on one disc, it makes it even sweeter. You can't go wrong getting this disc!

Joe Ely's Country-Rock Masterpieces.......2001-02-07

These two late-Seventies albums (his 1977 debut and 1978 follow-up) are watershed marks in Joe Ely's career. Ely and his band combine country, honky-tonk and Tex-Mex sounds with a rock 'n' roll attitude and churn out an exciting blend of country-rock music.

On both albums the band included lead guitarist Jesse Taylor and steel guitar player Lloyd Maines. Accordian player Ponty Bone was brought on board for the second album (tracks 11-20). While these two albums may not have quite the same energy level as 1981's Live Shots, these two albums come awfully close.

In addition to being a powerful singer, Ely is an excellent songwriter. He wrote ten of the tracks here, including the rocking "Cornbread Moon," the plaintive "Honky Tonk Masquerade" and the Jerry Lee Lewis-inspired "Fingernails." Except for the Hank Williams classic "Honky Tonkin'," the other nine tracks were written by his former Flatlanders bandmates and fellow Texans Butch Hancock and Jimmie Dale Gilmore. Hancock wrote the gorgeous "She Never Spoke Spanish To Me" and the hilarious "West Texas Waltz," among others. [Note: On 1995's Letter To Loredo, Ely recorded Hancock's follow-up song "She Finally Spoke Spanish To Me."] Gilmore contributes "Treat Me Like a Saturday Night" and "Tonight I Think I'm Gonna Go Downtown."

While Ely's record sales never matched his critical acclaim, these are essential purchases. Almost twenty-five years later, Ely still is making quality music--his latest is last year's Live At Antone's--but this is the place to start. ESSENTIAL

The Phantom of the Opera (Highlights from the 1989 Original Canadian Cast)
Average customer rating:

Iffy

Rebecca Caine is what made me buy this album.

Very Nice!!!!

NOT AS GOOD AS THE LONDON CAST RECORDING

I liked Colm Wilkinson better in Les Miz

The Phantom of the Opera (Highlights from the 1989 Original Canadian Cast)

Manufacturer: Decca Broadway
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B0000072VS
Release Date: 2002-11-26

Tracks:

Prologue-The Stage Of The Paris Opera House, 1911
Overture
The Dress Rehearsal Of Hannibal
Think Of Me
The Mirror... (Angel Of Music)
The Phantom Of The Opera
The Music Of The Night
Notes/Prima Donna
All I Ask Of You
I Gave You My Music...
Entr'acte
Masquerade
The Graveyard
Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again
Wandering Child.../Bravo Monsieur...
The Point Of No Return/Down Once More
The Phantom's Lair

Amazon.com

A few years after The Phantom of the Opera debuted in London, Harold Prince unveiled Andrew Lloyd Webber's gothic musical in Canada, in 1989. It was so good that this recording of highlights from the Canadian cast is--dare we say it?--more enjoyable than the equivalent London cast highlights album. No, it doesn't have the authenticity of London principals Sarah Brightman (for whom then-husband Lloyd Webber wrote the role of Christine) and Michael Crawford, but it doesn't have their idiosyncrasies, either, and it does have the richer voices of Colm Wilkinson and Rebecca Caine (who played Jean Valjean and older Cosette, respectively, in the 1985 London cast of Les Misérables). At 69 minutes, the Canadian album is also 10 minutes longer than the London, allowing inclusion of the prologue and dress rehearsal for Hannibal. Of course, Lloyd Webber's melodies--"Angel of Music," "The Music of the Night," "All I Ask of You," "Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again"--are scrumptious on any continent. --David Horiuchi

Album Description

1990 Polydor release featuring highlights from Andrew Lloyd Webber's epic musical by the Original Canadian Cast, including Colm Wilkinson and Rebecca Caine. Directed by Harold Prince, it features 17 tracks, including 'Think Of Me', 'Notes/ Prima Donna', 'Masquerade' and 'Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again'.

Album Details

Contains highlights from the Andrew Lloyd Webber brainchild performed in Ottawa, Vancouver, Montreal & Calgary during April, 1991 through September, 1992. Stars Colm Wilkinson & Rebecca Caine in leading roles.

Customer Reviews:

Iffy.......2007-01-22

I've only listened to clips here and online, but I personally would not buy this entire album. Why? Well, I would LOVE to have Rebecca Caine's "Think of Me" and "Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again" - she has a beautiful voice, much stronger than either Sarah Brightman or Emmy Rossum, and much better trained. But what I have heard of the Raoul annoys me. He's supposed to be the good guy, not a dork!

And Colm Wilkinson as the Phantom? Whose idea was that??? I really do not like his voice, even as Valjean in Les Miz. I highly doubt he's a strong enough singer to pull of "Music of the Night" the way Michael Crawford or Hugh Panaro (best Phantom EVER) can.

If, however, this was on iTunes, I'd jump at the chance to get Rebecca's songs!

Rebecca Caine is what made me buy this album........2006-12-04

Rebecca Caine is my favorite Christine. I think that she has one of the most amazing voices, and I loved her in the title song.

As for everything else...
Honestly, Colm Wilkinson cannot sing. His voice is just too weak for the role. Like one of the reviewers before me said, he's no Michael Crawford, not even Gerard Butler. Maybe I should hear him sing in Les Miserables to appreciate his voice.
As for Byron Nease, he's okay, but I've easily heard better.

In all, the album's okay, but there are many better recordings.

Very Nice!!!!.......2006-08-25

Although this is a specatcular Disc, I find it very hard to appreciate fully Colm Wilkinson's voice in the role of the Phantom after being so used to Michael Crawford's for that role (and being used to mr. Wilkinson's as Jean Valjean in Les Misérables). Don't get me wrong I very much like Colm wilkinson, but not so much as the phantom.
Apart from that Rebecca Caine is a stunning Christine!!!! And at times seems to me to be...dare I say.... better than (my personal favourite singer) sarah brightman, Ms. Caine's "Think Of Me" blew me away, it was very inspiring....

Overall the rest of the cast is very good as well and if you are a true "phan" this is a must have CD very much worth its price!!!!

NOT AS GOOD AS THE LONDON CAST RECORDING.......2006-07-02

Today, after Phantom of the opera became the longest running musical in history of Broadway, and being one of the most produced of Andrew Lloyd Webber's work around the world, we can only agree with the statement of "The Times" reviewer which appeared on October 10, 1986, a day after the premiere in London, who wrote: "One thing is clear: Gaston Leroux's famous story is God's gift to the musical theatre. It wraps up the legends of Faust, Svengali, and Beauty and the Beast into a grand final death rattle of the romantic agony. It turns a theatre--the Paris Opera--into a replica of the universe, from the Statue of Apollo above the city's rooftops down to the infernal regions with their furnaces and stygian lake. And, musically, not only does it unfold to an accompaniment of the operatic repertoire, but also features a protagonist who is himself a great composer."

Phantom, with its operatic and lush melodies, intensive story and grandiose staging, remains one of the best and most beloved musicals of all time.

The musical is based on the Gaston Leroux's novel of the same title. It is set in the second part of the 19th century Paris and its famous opera house. The young soprano, Christine, is discovered as a talented young opera singer in the opera house. She is noticed by an old childhood friend, Raoul, and they fall in love. However, we find out that a third person, the mysterious Phantom, hiding behind a mask, is a musical genius who had been giving Christine singing lessons and who has developed a mad passion for his young pupil. He hides in the catacombs of the opera house, lurking on the outside world. He is determined to keep Christine for himself and the story evolves from here.

Apart from this interesting plot, the audiences were swept away by Lloyd Webber's tremendous score, which probably remains his best work. It combines the beautiful love songs and sweeping operetta-like arias, with numerous orchestral leads and crescendos. You can't help but being charmed by this beautiful and haunting score. The large numbers, especially, the last one, will probably move you deeply. The most popular numbers are "The phantom of the opera", a vibrating duet between Christine and the Phantom; "All I ask of you", a lovely love duet between Christine and Raul; Phantom's mesmerizing voice will hold you till the end in "The music of the night", Christine in "Wishing you are somehow here again" will evoke sadness, and many more.

One of the main reasons for the early success of this show and this recording was its original London cast. All of the three principals: Sarah Brightman as Christine, Michael Crawford as The Phantom and Steve Barton as Raoul gave the performances of their lives. Michael Crawford's take on the role of The Phantom became stuff legends are made of, due to his amazing vocalisation and the powerful, almost hypnotic attraction in his voice and performance, exactly how the Phantom is supposed to sound.

The lyrics by Richard Stilgoe and Christopher Hampton are the weakest link here, but they manage to convey the basic story.

After the show's success in London and on Broadway, the Canadian production was mounted and it premiered in Toronto's Pantages Theatre in September 1989. This CD captures the highlights of that production. All the important musical numbers are here, however, the problem is the cast, that is, some of them. Colm Wilkinson is a great singer, his interpretation of Jean Valjean being the best example. Unfortunately, he doesn't have what it takes to play the Phantom. His interpretation lacks the depth of Michael Crawford and he struggles to stretch his voice, especially on the high notes. Overall, he sings too deep for the role, sounding as if he is still in Les Miserables. Still, he is much better than the mediocre performance Gerard Butler gave in the 2004 movie version. Rebecca Caine is a fine Christine, her soprano has no problem of getting into the character. Byron Nease, who plays Raoul, also fails to deliver, sounding too old and squeaky. The unwritten rule of the musical theatre, that the miscasting can affect the best of materials, is regrettably evident here. There is also a minor problem with the orchestrations, since some parts have a faster tempo than in the original. The aficionados will notice small lyrical changes in comparison with the original cast recording.

The CD comes with a synopsis (a rear treat in the Andrew Lloyd Webber's cast recordings), the lyrics and production photos.

This recording works best as an addition to the existing Phantom collection. For the first time listeners, I highly recommend the 2-disc 1986 London Cast Recording. Not only does it feature almost the entire musical, but also the cast is much, much better, as well as the orchestrations, which have a more classical touch.

I liked Colm Wilkinson better in Les Miz.......2006-05-12

Not to say that he doesn't do a good job in this role as well, but often times it just sounds like Jean Valjean singing the Phantom. He does have some great moments but I think the Christine is the best thing about this recording. I don't know why, but I find her voice incredibly sexy. It's easy to see why the Phantom would want to seduce her and foster her talent. Raoul's line (and vocal) delivery is a little too "Dudley Do Right" for my tastes. It sounds almost comical at times. I dunno, maybe that's what he was going for. The London Cast recording is probably still the gold standard simply because the actors have become so synonymous with the roles they played, but you should pick this one up if you want a more up-to-date version of the orchestrations and, subsequently, the libretto.

Khachaturian: Masquerade Suite; Kabalevsky: The Comedians; Tchaikovsky: Capriccio Italien; Rimsky-Korsakov: Capriccio Espagnol / Kondrashin

Average customer rating:

Four Enjoyable Performances
A Classic!
Get It To Listen Masquerade Suite (Others Are Alright...)
Simply BEAUTIFUL!
A rollicking good time

Khachaturian: Masquerade Suite; Kabalevsky: The Comedians; Tchaikovsky: Capriccio Italien; Rimsky-Korsakov: Capriccio Espagnol / Kondrashin

Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Khachaturian: Spartacus / Khachaturian, Vienna Philharmonic
Offenbach: Gaite Parisienne; Rossini-Respighi: La Boutique Fantasque
Rimsky-Korsakov: Scheherazade/Capriccio Espagnol
Offenbach: Gaïte parisienne; Rossini-Respighi: La boutique fantasque [Hybrid SACD]
Favourite Piano Concertos, Vol.2

ASIN: B00000GV4H
Release Date: 1999-01-12

Tracks:

Masquerade Suite: Waltz
Masquerade Suite: Nocturne
Masquerade Suite: Mazurka
Masquerade Suite: Romance
Masquerade Suite: Galop
The Comedians, Op. 26: Prologue
The Comedians, Op. 26: Comedians' Galop
The Comedians, Op. 26: March
The Comedians, Op. 26: Waltz
The Comedians, Op. 26: Pantomine
The Comedians, Op. 26: Intermezzo
The Comedians, Op. 26: Little Lyrical Scene
The Comedians, Op. 26: Gavotte
The Comedians, Op. 26: Scherzo
The Comedians, Op. 26: Epliogue
Capriccio italien, Op. 45
Capriccio espagnol, Op. 34: Alborada
Capriccio espagnol, Op. 34: Variazioni
Capriccio espagnol, Op. 34: Alborada
Capriccio espagnol, Op. 34: Scena e canto gitano
Capriccio espagnol, Op. 34: Fandango asturiano

Amazon.com

Kondrashin came to the U.S. in 1958 to conduct concerts for Van Cliburn. While he was recording the Tchaikovsky First Piano Concerto with Cliburn, RCA also had him make these recordings (originally two LPs) with pickup musicians in New York's Manhattan Center. The nucleus of the orchestra was composed of members of the old NBC Symphony, and the ensemble plays splendidly, with violinist Oscar Shumsky earning his solo credit. Kondrashin leads spirited performances of these warhorses, mostly music so vulgar we should be ashamed of enjoying it as much as we do. RCA's famous "Living Stereo" sound has transferred splendidly to this CD, making it an exquisite, guilty pleasure. --Leslie Gerber

Customer Reviews:

Four Enjoyable Performances.......2005-10-06

This CD has four pieces from four composers, all performed by Kiril Kondrashin and the RCA Victor Symphony Orchestra.

The opening brass fanfare of Tchaikovsky's Capriccio italien is precise and impressive, making it my favorite recording of this work.

The performance of Rimsky-Korsakov's Capriccio espagnol is as good as anyone else's, with a full sound.

The real reason to have the disk is the inclusion of two obscure pieces, Masquerade Suite by Khachaturian and The Comedians by Kabalevsky. The former shows the surface gaiety and underlying tensions at a costume party. The latter is music depicting a troupe of clowns. Both get a lively, engaging treatment.

All four pieces are played with brio and are a joy to hear.

A Classic!.......2005-06-19

If you enjoy lighter classical music and everybody needs a break every so often, this magnificent CD is for you. Wonderful music, great performances that do not sound like they came from a studio and incredible sound. The Amazon reviewer calls this music vulgar. I totally disagree, however this music is great fun. And what in the world is wrong with a little bit of fun? Recordings of this quality are extremely rare. So go ahead and buy it. You will not regret it. I can guarantee that.

Get It To Listen Masquerade Suite (Others Are Alright...).......2004-02-17

This is a rare gem that many people will probably miss. If you listen to your local classical radio station, you might actually catch this really great piece by Khachaturian. All the movements have been done with gusto and enthusiasm. It will definitely get your attention with its rich melodies. I would characterize it as almost Tchaikovsky with romantic influences.

The CD leaflet is quite informative to describe the life of Khachaturian in writing the Masquerade Suite. So, it is worth the price of the CD since it provides more information about a relatively obscure composer. I think the music really got my attention and interested in learning about where Khachaturian got his influence.

The other pieces are a mixed bag and probably depends on what your tastes are. I personally found Kabalevsky not to be quite memorable since there are no distinct theme. It's a different style which takes time to appreciate. To me, it sounds very modern like Aaron Copland which doesn't appeal to me. It is really a progression from romatic to modern music.

Tchaikovsky is much more like what you are used to from him. Expect lush and some beautiful tunes. It is not played often so you will not be humming this immediately. So, you just have to listen to it a while. It is pretty slow with highs and lows which means more patience to detail.

Rimsky-Korsakov is more exciting and probably what you expect in this CD. This probably would make sense if the entire CD would focus on strong movements like this one. I guess that is the drawback when a CD album comes out. You are sure to really want to hear one piece but the others are not up to par. However, even popular CDs you buy is a mixed bag so this is not unlike in this regards. So, I would recommend listening to the samples and then decide to buy it. You will love Khachaturian but probably won't feel the same about the others.

Simply BEAUTIFUL!.......2003-02-06

Many do not know Aram Khachaturian's moving, romantic music, but they would likely recognised the Sabre Dance, used everywhere commercials and cartoons or the Adagio used by Stanley Kubrick in 2001: A Space Odyssey. That frantic, almost comical Sabre Dance comes from the oh so romantic Gayne Ballet Suite along with the Adagio made famous when Kubrick chose it for his film.

But it's his Masquerade Suite I love the most. Khachaturian's music has a feel as if it should come from a contemporary of Saint Saens, instead of one living and composing in the 20th century (he died in 1978). I danced to this as a ballet dancer, and I don't know any music quite so filled my heart and soul.
Few composure can imbue their music with so much passion. The Masquerade Suites' Waltz, Romance and Nocturne are just breathtaking.

I had to hunt and hunt to find this on a record, so I so delighted to see it on CD!!

Just is nothing as beautiful! To think this same composure also gave us the Gayne Ballet and Spartacus is simply amazing.

So discover the beauty of Khachaturian!

A rollicking good time.......2000-10-17

This is a fun CD. Yes, I think 'fun' is the best word to describe these works. They are all delightful (and by no means trivial) romps through the world of orchestral color. And the sound- it sounds as if it was recorded in '98 rather than '58! Add the brilliantly exuberant playing of the orchestra led by the incomparable Kondrashin to the mix, and you have a potent concoction. Don't pass on this one.

Average customer rating:

Wyclef IS NOT a hypocrite
His best album next to The Ecleftic
5 Stars-Underappreciated Hip-Hop Classic!
Good, good
Wyclef

Masquerade
Wyclef Jean
Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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The Ecleftic: 2 Sides II a Book
The Preacher's Son
Presents the Carnival Featuring the Refugee Allstars
Welcome to Haiti: Creole 101
Preachers Son (Limited Edition w/ Bonus DVD)

ASIN: B0000658AW
Release Date: 2002-06-18

Tracks:

Message to the Streets
Peace God
PJ's (featuring Governor and Prolific)
80 Bars
Masquerade (featuring M.O.P. Bumpy Knuckles and Miri)
1-800-Henchman
You Say Keep It Gangsta (featuring Butch Cassidy and Sharissa)
Party Like I Party
Oh What a Night
Hot 93.1
Pussycat (featuring Tom Jones)
Midnight Lovers
Two Wrongs (featuring Claudette Ortiz)
Instant Request
Thug Like Me
Daddy
Knockin' on Heaven's Door
The Eulogy
War No More
The Mix Show
MVP Kompa (featuring Melky) (Bonus Track)
Ghetto Racine (PJ's Creole mix, featuring Ja Rah Rah) (Bonus Track)

Amazon.com

Wyclef Jean's third solo offering finds him still trying his darndest to prove to hip-hoppers and pop audiences alike just how eclectic he can be. And no one knows exactly why. After all, eclecticism does not necessarily translate to quality; Jean's disturbingly mediocre collaboration with Tom Jones on an updated version of "What's New, Pussycat?" is a prime example of how an intriguing idea can go awry. Likewise, his reinterpretations of Bob Dylan's "Knockin' on Heaven's Door" and the Four Seasons hit "December, 1963 (Oh, What a Night)" demonstrate just how spiritless this truly gifted emcee/producer can sound. Sure, Masquerade boasts Wyclef's broad coverage of black music, flipping styles from reggae to R&B in a heartbeat. The R&B flavored "Two Wrongs," featuring Claudette Ortiz of City High, and the touching ode to his recently deceased father, "Daddy," sound grand. But in the end, Jean's attempt to masquerade as a hardcore rap artist on the "PJs"--a tired ode to low-income housing dwellers--reveals that he's been on cruise control since The Score. And it's a real shame. --Dalton Higgins

Customer Reviews:

Wyclef IS NOT a hypocrite.......2006-10-11

Keep it GANGSTA? Listen, Wyclef puts it out there straight- "Artists" who make and flash huge amounts of money touting hate,material bling,ignorance, violence and misogyny are (at best)seriously ill, at worst culpable for the self-inflicted genocide of (mostly) black youth on the street. I don't, nor will I EVER AGREE with censorship, but "artists" who put this stuff out for mass consumption should be starved into non-existance. Stop buying HATE.Choke off financial support for record labels that make blood money off dead kids and abused women. Wyclef IS A POSITIVE MESSAGE. This man CARES about the kids who have their lives destroyed and taken from them by Crack pimps and people who PRETEND to be heavy Gangstaz. Look- you want change? Work for peace- Through Music, by respecting woman and cherishing the kids. WYCLEF gave MONEY to the NYC reading programs. TAKE NOTE! Karma exists. WYCLEF and anyone who works for justice and the preservation of Life should be a hero to youth, not slammed by big print reviewers who are disappointed that Wyclef isn't spewing out HATE for mass consumption. And this ALL from a cozy air conditioned apartment in the Suburbs somewhere. You are disapointed why? Because you were less entertained? It's called SPIRIT and SOUL. Either you get this equation or you're just pimping WORDS instead of dope.Dig This- NO JUSTICE..NO PEACE.
Love and Tenacity in the face of Evil WILL conquer..but not before we lose too many,too soon. You GO brother. We're listening. Is Washington?

His best album next to The Ecleftic.......2006-10-03

Standout tracks: PJs, 80 BARS(80 scars), MASQUERADE, YOU SAY KEEP IT GANGSTA, PARTY LIKE I PARTY, PUSSYCAT(Hilarious how he got away with that), THUG LIKE ME, THE MIX SHOW, PEACE GOD, MVP KOMPA, GHETTO RACINE and AFRICA. Note: the last song was a circuit city exclusive on my copy. Filler: Oh What A Night is so corny its painful but thats it. Bottom Line: Wyclef kept the good album streak going with Masquerade his most consistent work. Upon hearing this album I found out two things: Wyclef is an underrated emcee and an even more underrated producer. The production on his album was solid(minus Oh what a night)and he bought his A game on this album. I strongly recommend this one for Wyclef fans.

5 Stars-Underappreciated Hip-Hop Classic!.......2005-07-25

At 22 tracks deep, you'd think there'd be a lot of filler tracks, but this ain't the case with this album, "Masquerade" shows the diverse styles that Wyclef brings, I also recommend you getting all the Fugees and Wyclef solo albums to support the most positive man in hip-hop history, God Bless you Wyclef, keep reppin' for the Haitians and I hope you do another Fugees album!

Good, good.......2005-01-18

THis album? Pretty good. Half of the songs i really liked, the other half they were so-so. I still like Wyclef's Style though, and he's still a great rapper. Thumbs up.

Wyclef.......2004-03-27

Wyclef mixes unique voice with hip-hop and the Carribean, and the result is a tight album. I don't know what yall were thinkin if you gave him less than 3 stars. The last songs just make you want to get up and start shakin it. The one thing I find wrong with this album is that he keeps pretending the CD is a radio station. But, still 5 stars. Also, Wyclef has tha tightest cadillacs.

Persichetti: Divertimento; Masquerade; Parable

Average customer rating:

A Most Welcome Reissue of Persichetti Wind Band Music

Persichetti: Divertimento; Masquerade; Parable

Manufacturer: Naxos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000EQHS8M
Release Date: 2006-04-18

Tracks:

Divertimento For Band, Op.42
Psalm For Band, Op.53
Chorale Prelude: O God Unseen, Op.160
Pageant, Op.59
Masquerade For Band, Op.102
O Cool Is The Valley, Op.118
Parable For Band, Op.121 (Poem For Band)

Customer Reviews:

A Most Welcome Reissue of Persichetti Wind Band Music.......2006-05-12

The contents of this CD were originally issued on the Harmonia Mundi label about ten years ago. It was a treasurable issue then and its reappearance on a budget label is particularly welcome for those who don't own the older disc. Much of this music stands at the very center of essential American concert band music repertoire, along with his Symphony No. 6. Vincent Persichetti (1915-1987), whose polytonal and rhythmically alive music is presented here, had a particular talent for writing for combinations of winds, brass and percussion. Included on this well-filled disc are seven of the fourteen such works that he wrote. Divertimento for Band, Op. 42, Psalm for Band, Op. 53, and Pageant, Op. 59 are among the most-played of these works, but the much more complex and striking Parable for Band (Parable IX), Op. 121, one of the last things he wrote, is perhaps one of his most original works.

The music itself is performed beautifully by players of the London Symphony under the direction of American conductor, David Amos, long known for his recorded forays into forgotten or nearly-forgotten American music. One could not ask for more idiomatic performances. As someone who had many years ago played in performances of the Divertimento and the Psalm, this recording brought back warm memories. Naxos, which has just started a new series called 'Wind Band Classics,' has issued this as the second in what hopes will be an extensive list of recordings to come. A plus for this release is the knowledgeable booklet essay by the leading expert on the music of Persichetti, Walter Simmons.

Strongly recommended.

Scott Morrison