Jonathan Edwards

Jonathan Edwards

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
Singer-songwriter Jonathan Edwards released this charming debut record in 1971. The album gained some mainstream attention thanks to the catchy political-pop single "Sunshine." Featuring rustic, acoustic-based ballads, and up-tempo numbers like "Train of Glory," Edwards's warm, gentle voice was surrounded by a group of empathic musicians collectively known as Orphan. Edwards sang his homespun tunes in a casual, easy manner, while accompanying himself on acoustic guitar and harmonica. The emotional centerpiece on this album is "Sometimes," a touching ode to the early-morning memories of a love long gone. A convincing vocalist armed with a batch of heartfelt compositions, Jonathan Edwards typified the young, folkie troubadours that were popular in the early '70s. In retrospect, this recording was also his finest effort. --Mitch Myers

Tracks:

Everybody Knows Her
Cold Snow
Athens County
Dusty Morning
Emma
Shanty
Sunshine
The King
Don't Cry Blue
Jesse
Sometimes
Train Of Glory

Amazon.com

Singer-songwriter Jonathan Edwards released this charming debut record in 1971. The album gained some mainstream attention thanks to the catchy political-pop single "Sunshine." Featuring rustic, acoustic-based ballads, and up-tempo numbers like "Train of Glory," Edwards's warm, gentle voice was surrounded by a group of empathic musicians collectively known as Orphan. Edwards sang his homespun tunes in a casual, easy manner, while accompanying himself on acoustic guitar and harmonica. The emotional centerpiece on this album is "Sometimes," a touching ode to the early-morning memories of a love long gone. A convincing vocalist armed with a batch of heartfelt compositions, Jonathan Edwards typified the young, folkie troubadours that were popular in the early '70s. In retrospect, this recording was also his finest effort. --Mitch Myers

Customer Reviews:

Jonathan Edwards.......2007-01-24

I like his way he does music
it's cool I like old style music

bought for one song & liked the album.......2007-01-12

Sunshine-his big hit, of course. Some nice folk music and a little country. I'm not big on country, but the rest of the album is a nice retreat. I think his music has fallen into obscurity.

rare talent.......2005-04-12

For those of you who have never had the pleasure of seeing Jonathan Edwards in concert or hearing his recordings, you owe it to yourself to do so. I had the opportunity to see him several times while in college(1970's) and can still vividly remember his fantastic concerts. All of his recordings are a treat and highlight his true musical talent. I was happy to see that "Lucky Day" will soon be released on CD. Buy all of his CD's! You won't be dissappointed. Also, for more Jonathan Edwards, check out Cheryl Wheeler's discs. Absolutely listen to the song "Behind The Barn" from the same titled album.

this album is one of the best .......2004-07-23

Jonathan Edwards is an unsung hero.His music is so full of flavor and life.A radio station in my area used to have what they call "desert island tapes"--if you were stranded on a desert island and you had three peices of music allowed for an indefinite amount of time--what would you pick?
This would be one pick of mine.Its that good.It is soothing,heartfelt and even funny.I have never met anyone who didnt like this album after being turned on to it.Jonathan has a voice of gold and the music is terrific.The only thing i would say is buy it!---you will not regret it.

Lucky Day.......2004-03-19

There is an album titled "Lucky Day" by Jonathan Edwards
which includes most or all of the songs on this album but
are live versions. Lucky Day was the first Jonathan Edwards
album I bought so I enjoy these live versions much better.
The tempo is faster and Jonathan adds his embelishments
within songs. I would like to see some recording company
reproduce Lucky Day on CD.
Jonathan Edwards fans that haven't heard it will enjoy ~~~

Average customer rating:

Good but not Great
Patti LuPone owns!!!
Rainbow High, but it's still Patti's show
A New Argentina! (or at least a new Argentinean playing Evita!)
EXCELLENT RECORDING OF THE COLOURFUL NEW PRODUCTION, BUT...

Evita (2006 London Cast)

Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music

General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music

Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

Soundtracks | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

Classical | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

A Chorus Line - The New Broadway Cast Recording (2006 Broadway Revival Cast)
Spring Awakening (2006 Original Broadway Cast)
Curtains (2007 Original Broadway Cast)
Grey Gardens - A New Musical (2006 Original Broadway Cast)
Company (2006 Broadway Revival Cast)

ASIN: B000EYK0ZM
Release Date: 2006-10-24

Tracks:

Requiem For Evita
Oh What A Circus
On This Night Of A Thousand Stars
Eva Beware Of The City
Buenos Aires
Goodnight And Thank You
The Art Of The Possible
I'd Be Surprisingly Good For You
Another Suitcase In Another Hall
A New Argentina
Don't Cry For Me Argentina
High Flying, Adored
Rainbow High
Rainbow Tour
And The Money Kept Rolling In (And Out)
Waltz For Eva And Che
You Must Love Me
She Is A Diamond
Montage
Lament

Album Description

One of the world's greatest musicals, returns to London's West End after 21 years. Directed by the award-winning Michael Grandage and featuring lyrics by Tim Rice and music by Andrew Lloyd Webber, the brand new production of the smash-hit stage show had its Press Night with rave reviews at the Adelphi Theatre on June 21st., 2006. The amazing cast includes the exciting Argentinean discovery Elena Roger as Eva, Philip Quast as Peron and Matt Rawle as Che. Polydor. 2006.

Album Details

2006 Digitally Remastered Edition of the Original Andrew Lloyd Webber/Tim Rice Classic Stage Presentation that Told the Story of Evita Peron and Served as the First Major Pinnacle in the Career of Elaine Paige.

Customer Reviews:

Good but not Great .......2007-03-03

This album is good, but it is not great.
I love the voices and new interpretation of the songs, but
I cannot say I love Eva Peron of this particular album. In my personal
opinion, Madonna sings better for certain songs like 'New Argentina'

It is a great album, but I would rather go for Madonna and Patti LuPone.

Patti LuPone owns!!!.......2007-01-01

I gave this show three stars for one reason: nothing can outshine Patti LuPone flawless performance as Eva Perón! Don't get me wrong Elena Rogers delivers a heartfelt Eva but lacks the suprerior belt power of Ms. LuPone.

Phillip Quast however is a brillant Juan Perón, basically anything with Mr. Quast in it is worth getting!!!

Matt Rawle brings a very new and young Ché to the plate.... maybe not quite vocally powerful as Mandy Patinkin. He's okay but needs some getting used to.

The new orchestrations and musical changes are different but I like the original much better....

If you're already an Evita Fan and really enjoy the original recording then I would reccamend this, but if you haven't yet heard Evita then I'd say start with the Orginal Recording with Patti LuPone and Mandy Patinkin first.

Rainbow High, but it's still Patti's show.......2006-11-02

I've always believed "Evita" was ALW's most intelligent and most important work-- a fully realized (if not arguably biased) exploration of the life of Eva Peron. I know the "Phantom" phans out there will disagree, but I don't think anything else ALW did was as significant or musically brilliant. Add Tim Rice's lyrics, and what you have is a bona fide diamond in the musical theater pantheon. Only Mama Rose is a more coveted female role-- maybe.

First there was Julie Covington in the experimental stage, then Elaine Paige in the original London cast, who seemed to play it with a nudge and wink. Somewhat more recently, Marti Webb-- another ALW alumnus-- did a largely forgettable studio album of songs from the show. As for the movie, I think Madonna did a very respectable job and was largely overlooked. The CD largely holds up as a document of the film, with Madonna's singing effective, and Antononio Banderas a complete surprise as a competent, if not always attached, Che. Such is the problem with soundtracks, the lack of interaction among cast members that is vital to stage.

But this has always been Patti's show, and always will be.

Patti Lupone was uniquely qualified to play Evita when it opened on Broadway in 1978. She had the attitude, the talent, the brass, and those pipes. She will always be the quintissential Evita. Mandy Patinkin was an admirable Che, well before he descended into the manic Broadway hyper-belter that Sondheim undountedly had a hand in creating. The Lupone Evita, on 2 CDs, with most of the inceidental music and an incredible record of star-making performance, will forever be the most important recording of this show.

Now, nearly 30 years later, Evita is being revived on the London stage, at the Adelphi Theatre, and garnering rave revues. I've been waiting months for this CD, and I'm not disappointed. Elena Roger is a stunner of an Evita, vocally directed to shift from a street-wise Spanish accent in the early songs ("Buenos Aires") to a still Spanish but lyrically elegant Evita as she rises to global sainthood. Lupone's brass isn't obvious. This Evita isn't as flawed or damaged as Madonna's interpretation, but definitely handles the demands of the score. The "Don't Cry For Me Argentina" number is exquisite, and she achieves some drama in the "Rainbow High" number that even alluded Lupone. Listen to this woman belt "I'm their savior!" at the key moment in the song-- this probably stops the show every night. The addition of "You Must Love Me," the in-out song that, after Madonna, now seems will be a permanent part of the show, is performed with delicacy and anguish-- I'm not sure Lupone could've pulled off the quiet desperation as perfectly as Elena Roger does.

This Che takes some getting used to. Matt Rawle sings the demanding role with energy and, at points, quite beautifully. He never emulates Patinkin, which is appropriate. He also has a strong Cockney accent at points (particularly in the early numbers) that come off at first as startling. He too refines it by the time "High Flying, Adored" comes around, and he's excellent in the "Waltz for Eva and Che." Elena Roger's Spanish accent works wonders here; Matt Rawle gets a bit distracting, even with his astonishing energy and vigor. At points, he sounds like he should over at the Prince Edward Theatre in "Mary Poppins." Happily, Phillip Quast comes across as a more youthful, vocally strong and beautifully sung Peron-- he may be the best Peron yet. Gary Milner is a respectable Magaldi, the joke of the 1978 version having worn thin by now.

Orchestrations are excellent. Some very interesting dissonance at important points, quieter and more like a chamber group at others. My major regret with this recording is that it's on one CD, so much of the incedental music we've been listening to for years on the Lupone 2-CD version is missing. This hurts, not only because the score is so good, but because this cast is excellent. Still, coming in at an hour and 10 minutes, I'm not complaining (much). A complete recording would have earned it 5 stars.

This is one of the few revivals that honestly stands up to the original-- something you can say for very few shows. It won't replace Lupone and Patinkin (as Faith Prince and Nathan Lane did with the 1992 revival of "Guys and Dolls," for example), but this is an excellent recording, and an absolute must for any fan of this show-- which, I believe, includes anyone who calls themselves a fan of musicals. Great stuff- it'll leave you Rainbow High.

A New Argentina! (or at least a new Argentinean playing Evita!).......2006-09-12

It dawned on me awhile ago that no matter what your opinion of Andrew Lloyd Webber, if he had only written three musicals: "Jesus Christ Superstar," "Evita", and "The Phantom of the Opera," he would still qualify as one of the greatest musical composers of the last forty years. The fact that he has been so prolific and adventurous in his material only elevates him in my mind. I can't help but appreciate his love of musicals, even when he doesn't quite hit the mark. Really-- besides Sondheim (obviously)-- who has been trying out new, even experimental, ideas to such a degree for so long?

Think about it for a second: while most composers take easy approaches (especially these days, when the norm is to adapt recent and well known films), Lloyd Webber has written shows about cats (based entirely on a book of poems, no less!), fading Hollywood movie stars, the Troubles in Ireland, racing trains, and even one about a girl in the bible belt who thinks the convict hiding in her barn is Jesus. Whatever you think of his musical style (Too bombastic! Too many recycled melodies!) or the shortcomings of his lyricists, he takes more chances than most composers and there are memorable tunes in virtually every show he has written. And though the three I mentioned as his best are all pretty early works, I don't think he's lost his touch: "The Woman in White," his latest, was way underrated. I mean, come on, it is SO much better than most scores we get from most ANY musical composer (and David Zippel's lyrics, unlike some of Lloyd Webber's other collaborators, are right there on the same melodramatic wavelength as the material and music).

Anyway, if I sound defensive it's because Lloyd Webber's "Evita" was the musical that hooked me on cast recordings, and it's one I really don't get tired of hearing (especially with so many recordings available to keep it fresh). The music is excellent, Tim Rice's lyrics are superb, and the whole show is innovative in its deliberately nontraditional storytelling. In short, it's one of my all time favorite modern musicals.

So now we have another version to add to the lot: the London 2006 revival recording. First things first: unfortunately, it's a "highlights" version and not the usual 2-discs you expect from "Evita" recordings. So, a disappointment there. Still, most of the important stuff is here, save "Peron's Latest Flame," which was always one of my favorite numbers in the show. To cut that song is almost inexplicable (I hope it's still in the show!). I do, however, like the inclusion of "You Must Love Me," the Oscar-winning number written for the movie version. It's nice to hear it in this theatrical context.

The orchestrations throughout are also really good. Revamped by Lloyd Webber himself, they do add an extra Argentinean flavor, just as the liner notes say the intent was (at least it's what I imagine Argintenean flavor to sound like-- not an expert here on South American song stylings). There are lots of changes from previous recordings-- some quite large, others more subtle. Perhaps the most noticeable changes are a reworking of "The Art of the Possible" that is pretty cool sounding, and an updated version of the "montage" near the end.

Also adding a bit more of that Argentinean flavor is Elena Roger in the title role (she ought to-- she's from Argentina!). She's great in the role, coming across as sort of girlish, yet with a powerful harshness; she lends an authenticity to the proceedings with her conviction and Latin accent (the accent is an asset, not a problem-- she sings the lyrics with amazing clarity). I don't feel up to comparing the various Evitas, as they all have their own good qualities, but probably the best I can say about Roger is she is far from a carbon copy of any previous actress (impressive, given the amount of women who have recorded the role). Matt Rawle as Che and Philip Quast as Peron are both perfectly good, if not quite as distinctive.

So this is a really good recording overall and will get plenty of repeat playing from me. "Evita" will always be "five stars," but for rating purposes, I have to dock one star here for not quite giving us the whole score. I really don't know what they were thinking. It's even packaged to look like a usual 2 disc set! So a minor disappointment in what is otherwise a really worthwhile album.

EXCELLENT RECORDING OF THE COLOURFUL NEW PRODUCTION, BUT..........2006-08-22

... this is only a highlights recording. But before we get to this fact, one has to say a few words about the musical itself.

Over the years Andrew Lloyd Webber has made many musicals, some more successful and appealing to the public than the others. Most people will, however, agree that "Evita" remains one of his most satisfying works to this date. Numerous reasons confirm this statement. Just like in its predecessor "Jesus Christ Superstar", "Evita" is almost entirely sung-through; the lyrics are witty and appropriate; the subject matter is again a personality larger-than-life who rises from obscurity and dies at the peak of its fame, thus becoming a legend; the score is captivating and appealing to the listener, at home or in the theatre. The subject matter is quite well know, but let us repeat the essentials for the ones who are unacquainted with it: We follow the life story of Eva Duarte Peron, wife of post-World war two president of Argentina, Juan Peron. However, the musical is very loosely based on the actual life of the real Evita. The story follows Evita from the day of her death in July 1952, and then we have flashbacks until that moment, covering her coming to Buenos Aires, alleged love affairs, meeting Peron, being the first lady and dying of cancer at 33.

This CD is the cast recording of the newly directed 2006 London production that opened in June in London's Adelphi Theatre. This is the first production that did not use Hal Prince's renowned direction, but instead it has Michael Grandage, one of the best contemporary British theatrical directors. The cast who delivers the glorious score is for the most part, well picked. Elena Roger, a tiny, blue-eyed young Argentinean , brings a welcoming freshness to the role, sung in the past by some of the best female voices in the theatre, such as Patti LuPone and Elaine Paige. Elena seems to understand that the role of Eva Peron needs to be acted as well as sung. She brings a new touch to the songs we've heard performed so many times before and although Patti LuPone's Evita will by all accounts remain unmatched, Elena Roger found both her voice and character, despite the fact that at some points she sounds as if she is struggling to hit the highest of notes. Her rendition of `Buenos Aires' is one of the highlights of this recording, but one must note that the famous `Don't cry for me Argentina' needed a bit more of the vocal range in Elena's take of the refrain reprise.

Matt Rawle's Che gets a mixed review. He can be quite good at times (like in `The money kept rolling in') and yet he has the tendency of singing too much in a high voice, similarly like Mandy Patinkin on the 1979 Broadway Cast Recording. I always felt Che needs to have a deeper voice, as sung by Antonio Banderas, Colm Wilkinson or David Essex. Philip Quast makes a fine Peron, but his presence on this album, due to its highlights nature, is barely noticeable. Lorna Want's Mistress is a gem in her rendition of 'Another suitcase in another hall'.

The new orchestrations sound fresh and have more of a Latin American and tango flavor than the previous ones. `Buenos Aires' has a new lush melody in between the verses and the discreet accordion sound in `I'd be surprisingly good for you' is a nice touch. However, there are some quite unnecessary cuts made in the music. So in the latter song the charming orchestral play of the melody between the refrains is completely cut, which takes a lot from the song's appeal. The same has been done with `You must love me', which is beautifully performed by Roger, but the lack of the orchestral solo is something which is very noticeable and not called for.

The lyrics of Tim Rice, one of the main assets of this show, haven't lost any of their wittiness and one has to mention the fact that the entire second verse of `Lament', which can be only heard on the 1976 Concept Album with Julie Covington, is now fully used for the first time on stage. This is very important, since not only does it gives an important insight into what authors conceived as Eva's motivation (the need to be loved), but also it makes the whole story line more complete. This is certainly the most touching number on the CD: Roger gives a truly moving performance and there is a discreet choral accompaniment here, which gives a moving note to it all.

Finally, to the issue from the beginning of this review. This is, sadly, only a highlights CD of this production, and what's worse, it has less material than the highlights album of the movie soundtrack with Madonna. It remains unclear why the author's didn't go for a full 2 disc edition, even more so, when the last one was done in 1979, with Broadway Cast Recording. No matter what the reasons were, there was 10 more minutes left to fill on this CD and it is just about enough to round off the story. Some of the things missing in the musical numbers on the CD are: `Eva and Magladi', the introduction to `A new Argentina' or the last Eva's lines from `The rainbow tour'. There is also a question of the reason for including `The art of the possible' (which is more of a number to be seen on stage than to listen) and omitting of `Peron's latest flame' altogether. These are the main reasons this CD is not as good as it could have been. Let us hope that this issue will be resolved if this production makes it to Broadway in the near future. The CD itself comes in a nice sleeve case, lyrics, director's notes and a couple of production pictures.

For those of you who are getting acquainted with the story of Eva Peron for the first time I must point out: Bear in mind that this musical is only loosely based on the life of the real Evita. As much as Tim Rice's lyrics are craftily made, they lack a lot of historical accuracy. As a historian I became very interested in Eva Peron's life story so I did some research after seeing the movie. It turned out that the authors based their entire work on a single book called EVITA: THE WOMAN WITH A WHIP by Mary Main. The author belonged to the rich Anglo-Argentinean part of the society that was naturally opposed to Perons. Today's historians concur that this book is based on rumors, lies and myths, written with the single purpose of slandering Eva Peron as much as possible. It contains no footnotes and no bibliography. The authors used it mainly because it was one of the few books available on the subject in the English language during the 70-is. So one should be very careful in making any conclusions based on the musical or the movie alone.

All things considered, this is a nice addition to your existing Evita cast recording collection or a good souvenir from the show. But for the people who want to enjoy Evita completely, I would recommend to go for the more complete recordings: 1976 Concept Album with Julie Covington, 1979 Broadway Cast with a Tony-winning Patti LuPone or 1996 movie soundtrack with Madonna.

Average customer rating:

Guitar player's friend.
Honky- Tonk Stardust Cowboy
A Heartfelt, Personal Album that can Warm the Soul!
One of the Best Ever
Oops! My mistake on last review

Honky-Tonk Stardust Cowboy
Jonathan Edwards
Manufacturer: Collector's Choice
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Country | Styles | Music

General | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music

Contemporary | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music

General | Folk | Styles | Music

Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music

Folk Rock | Rock | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

Country Rock | Rock | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Jonathan Edwards
Lucky Day
Have a Good Time for Me
Rockin' Chair
Sail Boat

ASIN: B00005REPA
Release Date: 2002-01-08

Tracks:

Stop And Start It All Again
Everything
Longest Ride
Give Us A Song
Dues Days Bar
Morning Train
Ballad Of Upsy Daisy
It's A Beautiful Day
Sugar Babe
Dream Song
Paper Doll
Honky-Tonk Stardust Cowboy
That's What Our Life Is

Product Description

1. Stop And Start It All Again
2. Everything
3. Longest Ride
4. Give Us A Song
5. Dues Days Bar
6. Morning Rain
7. Ballad Of Upsy Daisy
8. It's A Beautiful Day
9. Sugar Babe
10. Dream Song
11. Paper Doll
12. Honky-Tonk Stardust Cowboy
13. That's What Our Life Is

Format: CD

Customer Reviews:

Guitar player's friend........2005-04-22

The title of my review describes this album to a T. In the mid 1970's, I was "learning" to play the guitar. The simplistic styling and rhythm of Jonathan Edwards' work allowed me the opportunity to "play along", and pick-up a straight forward, soft style of guitar playing. I had not heard this recording for quite sometime, but it still sounds as fresh to me in the 21st century as it did in the 70's. Not sure what ol' JE is doing these day, but, for me, he helped to contributed to my love of playing the guitar, as well as his work. At least, that's what I call it when my wife asks me about the noise I'm making...

Honky- Tonk Stardust Cowboy.......2005-02-12

I bought this album on vinyl, back in 1971. It has always been one of my top 5 L.P.s of all times. Every where I would go, if I'd find a used copy, in fair shape, I would buy it. I could not understand why this, his best album, was never released on C.D.. Today I was surfing the internet and came across it, on C.D., to my surprise. Needless to say I ordered it immediately. I would recommend it to people who like, country, folk, rock etc. It is just a great album with great songs. You will not be disappointed!

A Heartfelt, Personal Album that can Warm the Soul!.......2005-01-03

My mother had the original vinyl of this album when I was a child and I used to love pulling it out of her collection and look at it. It got destroyed due to me handeling it to death..as I did with all her other records. I replaced all of my mothers LPs in my late teens except for this one. It came as a total shock to be browsing through my favorite CD outlet in Downey when I came across the newly released CD of it! I bought it immediately.

"Honkey Tonk Stardust Cowboy" is one of the best albums of the singer/songwriter era you're ever going to hear. Released in 1972 it got no promotion due to the fact that it had no single like "Sunshine" to give it some backup. This album is even better than his debut and a perfect accompaniment for a trip in your car. The songs mold together so perfectly you'd think you were listening to a "concept" album...and it is in it's own way. All the tracks are beautiful and Edwards is a total virtuoso on the mouth harp...the harmonica. Check out his playing on "Morning Train" and "Sugar Babe." "That's What Our Life Is" closes the album perfectly and will bring tears to your eyes. For any fan of early '70s folk this album is an uexpected gem!

One of the Best Ever.......2003-07-27

I never owned this particular album, but had all of his others. I ordered it on the strength of the other reviews and my belief that one can never go wrong with JE. I have been searching for years to find all his works on CD, so had to have this one. This one is a gem! JE is unique in his sound and the versatility of his talent. From the mournful ballads to the rollicking honky-tonk sound, this is an artist who truly loves his craft. I find that over the years many of his songs are still my favorites and even the memory of them brings about a longing to give a listen. Thank goodness Atlantic records released this wonderful album. I hope they will continue by reissuing "Have Yourself a Good Time For Me", "Rocking Chair", and "Sailboat." This particular album, however, is truly a delight to listen to. Any JE fan will not be disappointed with this one!

Oops! My mistake on last review.......2003-04-17

That first recording was right above Stardust on the listing, I don't know how I missed it. Simple "Jonathan Edwards"... I don't know where I got "Capricorn" from, as written on my old tape, but maybe that was the label? Anyway, fantastic! I can get my old faves.

Average customer rating:

Fantastic!
A PERFECT live album by a wonderful, underrated artist!
His absolute BEST!!!
Give Us More Songs !!

Lucky Day
Jonathan Edwards
Manufacturer: Wounded Bird Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

General | Country | Styles | Music

General | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music

Contemporary | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music

General | Live Albums | Country | Styles | Music

General | Folk | Styles | Music

Traditional Folk | Folk | Styles | Music

Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music

Folk Rock | Rock | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Jonathan Edwards
Honky-Tonk Stardust Cowboy
Rockin' Chair
Have a Good Time for Me
Sail Boat

ASIN: B00080Z7BE
Release Date: 2005-05-10

Tracks:

Give Us a Song
Don't Cry Blue
Nova Scotia
Today I Started Loving You Again
Shanty
Have You Seen Her?
Everybody Knows Her
Lucky Day
Sometimes
Hit Parade of Love
Stop and Start It All Again
My Home Ain't in the Hall of Fame
That's What Our Life Is
You Are My Sunshine/Sunshine (Go Away Today)

Customer Reviews:

Fantastic!.......2007-03-07

I'm so happy to see this album finally released on CD......this is one of the best live albums I've ever heard (and I'm generally not a fan of live albums). I've owned the album since it was released and had given up hope that it would ever appear in CD format. He is supported by a wonderful backup group, Orphan, whose instrumentation and harmonies make these tunes far superior versions than those that are on the original studio recordings. It's a no brainer....buy it!

A PERFECT live album by a wonderful, underrated artist!.......2006-09-30

I just saw Jonathan Edwards, probably for the sixth or seventh time, in Fairfield, CT, at a wonderful venue, and he put on a memorable show with his beautiful songs, piano and guitar playing, and strong, impassioned singing. He is a true artist - underrated, I think - and deserving of a wider audience, but he has a strong, loyal following. This live album captures his artistry perfectly. Every song is superb, and, some, like his classic, "Sometimes," are given impeccable treatment. After the concert in Fairfield, my girlfriend and I put on one of his CD's from the 1970's and were struck by the fact that his voice sounds exactly the same today, perhaps stronger, and certainly more emotional. So many of his songs are classics, not just the ones he covers, but his own compositions.
Check out "Nova Scotia," "Lucky Day," and "Sometimes," to name just three songs from this CD and you will be introduced to three of the finest songs you have ever heard. Some bands and performers do not sound that impressive live - and some live albums are disappointments in terms of the song arrangements and vocals. This is different! This is one of THE best live albums - ever. A classic. You will be singing along, joyfully, to a first class artist, who is still making beautiful music - and doing it better than ever.

His absolute BEST!!!.......2005-10-21

I've listened to Jonathan Edwards for over 30 years, and this is his Absolute Best album. Every song is made to get you to sing along. I just saw him in an outdoor concert with 3 other headliners that were supposedly "Bigger" than him. Truth is, he stole the audience with every note he sang. If you want to experience him at his finest with a live audience, buy this puppy now, it'll be your Lucky Day!!!

Give Us More Songs !!.......2005-06-09

If you like Jonathan Edwards' music, you have to hear this cd!
I've been a big fan of Jonathan Edwards for many years and this is still my favorite.
They finally got it recorded onto cd and I can't stop playing it.
Really fun (live) sounds of times gone by !!!
Check this cd out, you won't be disappointed.

Postscript : I went to see Jonathan Edwards with a bunch of friends at a club and we somehow managed to sneak downstairs to meet him, what a super nice guy.

Average customer rating:

Clean and Brilliant

Have a Good Time for Me
Jonathan Edwards
Manufacturer: Collector's Choice
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Country | Styles | Music

General | Traditional Country | Country | Styles | Music

General | Folk | Styles | Music

Traditional Folk | Folk | Styles | Music

Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music

Folk Rock | Rock | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

Country Rock | Rock | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Honky-Tonk Stardust Cowboy
Rockin' Chair
Lucky Day
Jonathan Edwards
Sail Boat

ASIN: B00078GHPW
Release Date: 2005-06-21

Tracks:

Have Yourself A Good Time For Me
King Of Hearts
Places I've Been
I'm Alone
Travelin' Blues
Rollin' Along
My Home Ain't In The Hall Of Fame
Angelina
Thirty Miles To Go
Sit Down Rock And Roll Man
When The Roll Is Called Up Yonder

Product Description

1. Have Yourself a Good Time for Me
2. King of Hearts
3. Places I’ve Been
4. I’m Alone
5. Travelin’ Blues
6. Rollin’ Along
7. My Home Ain’t in the Hall of Fame
8. Angelina
9. Thirty Miles to Go
10. Sit Down Rock and Roll Man
11. When the Roll Is Called Up Yonder

Format: CD

Customer Reviews:

Clean and Brilliant.......2007-02-28

I suppose this could be disappointing to Edwards 'purists' - he didn't write any of the songs on this here platter. He did, however, pick some of the greatest amongst the writers with whom he traveled, including former band mates from 'Sugar Creek' and fellow stylist Eric Lilljequist.
For whatever reason, the production of this collection is just the most beautiful, simple, clear, and (sometimes) haunting I've ever heard.

The playing is superb and the vocals, as always, just beautiful.

Average customer rating:

Grammy Award winner
Johnathan and Darlene's Greatest Hits
Bad "Bad Music"
Beyond words
delicious

Jonathan and Darlene's Greatest Hits
Jonathan & Darlene Edwards
Manufacturer: Corinthian
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Country | Styles | Music

General | Traditional Country | Country | Styles | Music

General | Comedy | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music

General | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music

Classic | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music

Traditional Pop | Oldies | Pop | Styles | Music

Traditional Vocal Pop | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

"Jonathan & Darlene Edwards - Greatest Hits, Vol. 2"
The Glory (????) of the Human Voice
The Muse Surmounted: Florence Foster Jenkins and Eleven of Her Rivals
Florence Foster Jenkins & Friends: Murder on the High Cs
The Anna Russell Album

ASIN: B0000010KB
Release Date: 1993-09-11

Tracks:

I Love Paris
Dizzy Fingers
Take The 'A' Train
You're Blase
Alabamy Sound
Nola
I Am Woman
Don't Get Around Much Anymore
The Last Time I Saw Paris
Honeysuckle Rose
Autumn In New York
Be My Little Baby Bumble Bee
April In Paris
Stayin' Alive

Customer Reviews:

Grammy Award winner.......2007-05-09

Paul Weston and Jo Stafford did such a brilliant job as Jonathan and Darlene Edwards that their first release won the Grammy Award in 1957 as the best comedy album! While every reviewer thus far has discussed Darlene's off-key singing and Jonathan's lack of rhythmic expertise, nobody has mentioned his unusual, yet dreadfully wrong harmonies, a very subtle, yet hilarious musical faux pas. Also, what makes these recordings even more hysterical is the fact that they constantly have musical "foils" -- in the French songs, a string section, in the Roaring 20s songs, a trumpet and tuba, and in the sing-along songs, a sing-along gang. These "foils" go straight ahead, despite all the musical chaos going on around them. They play it absolutely straight and it makes the Edwardses musical mayhem even funnier! These CDs reflect some of the finest and wittiest musical artistry even committed to vinyl! Such musical brilliance is very rare.

Johnathan and Darlene's Greatest Hits.......2006-03-23

Haven't laughed so hard in ages. A must hear.

Bad "Bad Music".......2006-02-19

This record has its hilarious moments, but it duly becomes obvious that Jonathan and Darlene Edwards actually are talented musicians who are pretending to suck.

Here, I think, is why it bothered me:

Jenkins's struggles are funny because they are real. I'm sure that when the Edwardses are singing for real, they sound good. Once I figured out that the Edwardses were not bad singers but people making fun of bad singers, the joke was no longer funny. As a listener, I felt as if I were helping the Edwardses gang up on the Florence Foster Jenkinses of the world.

Beyond words.......2005-12-13

I'm delighted that these classic performances are now available on CD. Years ago I had the pleasure (I guess) of seeing Jo Stafford and Paul Weston as "Jonathan and Darlene" on TV, giving their unique interpretation of "I Love Paris." They were just as hilarious to watch as to listen to, with Jonathan smiling blissfully as he bumbled on and around the keyboard, and Darlene leaning seductively against the piano and snapping her fingers -- just off tempo. These recordings, along with Anna Russell's incomparable dissection of Wagner's Ring Cycle, are among the few comedy records that have stood the test of time.

delicious.......2005-01-24

I am a musician; I can tell you these people are brilliant. When I'm really depressed, I just listen to this, and before you can say "I Love Paris," I'm rolling on the floor LOL.

"Jonathan & Darlene Edwards - Greatest Hits, Vol. 2"

Average customer rating:

The perfect companion to volume 1
Brilliant, Too Much Fun for Words!
Absolute MADNESS
hilarious send up of traditional hits

"Jonathan & Darlene Edwards - Greatest Hits, Vol. 2"
Jonathan & Darlene Edwards
Manufacturer: Corinthian Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Country | Styles | Music

General | Traditional Country | Country | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music

Classic | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music

Traditional Pop | Oldies | Pop | Styles | Music

Traditional Vocal Pop | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music

Jonathan and Darlene's Greatest Hits
The Glory (????) of the Human Voice
The Muse Surmounted: Florence Foster Jenkins and Eleven of Her Rivals
Ultra-Lounge: Wild, Cool & Swingin' - Artist Series Vol 3
Florence Foster Jenkins & Friends: Murder on the High Cs

ASIN: B0000010KD
Release Date: 1994-02-22

Tracks:

Cocktails For Two
Tiptoe Through The Tulips
Ain't Misbehavin'
The Object Of My Affections
Five Foot Two, Eyes Of Blue
Sophisticated Lady
Play A Simple Melody
I'm Beginning To See The Light
For Me And My Gal
La Vie En Rose
Pretty Baby
Paris In The Spring
That Certain Party
It's Magic

Customer Reviews:

The perfect companion to volume 1.......2002-04-10

Volume two continues the wonderful piano stylings and angelic vocals of Jonathan and Darlene Edwards. I can't wait for vol. 3

Brilliant, Too Much Fun for Words!.......2002-01-08

Jonathan and Darlene (Paul Weston and Jo Stafford) are the most hilarious, brilliant comic team ever to record these songs. The liner notes are a hoot, too! This is such a treasure. You won't regret buying it. In our family, all the generations adore Jonathan and Darlene. My son grew up hearing us play the albums and he even indoctrinates his young friends by playing selections for them. Really the most hilarious listening experience you can imagine! I love every second of it and wish there were ten volumes rather than just the two.

Absolute MADNESS.......2001-07-11

In addition to the so eloquent aforementioned explanation of the contents this disk, may I submit the following :

I have played this recording at various parties just to see who notices the sour notes and rythmic blunders. Some people "get it" and others just wonder what's so funny about it. If you're somebody who appreciates parody and you aren't tone deaf - you are sure to like this silliness (and, be sure, it rates HIGHLY on the Silly Scale).

If you don't meet the above suggestions... then don't waste your time.

ps. it's A LOT more entertaining after a drink or two...

hilarious send up of traditional hits.......1998-11-25

Jonathan and Darlene Edwards are pseudonymns for legendary big band director and arranger Paul Weston and his singing icon wife, Jo Stafford. The two decided to release a series of LPs during the 50's which featured their slaughtered renditions of pop standards. The ablums set the industry on its ear and became hilarious musts for every party and get together where serious music lovers appreciated the difficulty of the task at hand. This is only the second of several LPs to find its way to CD. Notably, "I Love Paris" and "Sing Along With Jonathan and Darlene Edwards" still remain to be published in the new format (hint,hint!). Mere words cannot describe the hilarious effect this album will have on anyone who hears it for the first time and in my case, each time I rediscover the musical mastery of this duo. Mr. Weston plays wrong notes, bad chords and misses entrances and savages tempi with the self-confidence of a Toscannini. Ms. Stafford (Darlene), sings just flat (or sharp) enough to be hilarious. She never quite hits the notes or makes all her musical entrances but her comic sense of timing and musical "ability" are impressive! If you don't enjoy this album and its predecessor....there is little hope for your redemption!

Average customer rating:

Singers and Songwriters 1970-1971
Rod Stewart , Carole King , Janis Joplin , Marvin Gaye , Cat Stevens , Bill Withers , Nitty Gritty Dirt Band , Matthews' Southern Comfort , The Grateful Dead , and Richie Havens
Manufacturer: Time Life Music/
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Rock | Styles | Music

General | Classic Rock | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

The Singers and Songwriters Collection: 1972-1973
Singers & Songwriters: 1974-1975
The Singers and Songwriters Collection 1976-1977
Singers and Songwriters 1978-1979
Time-Life Singers and Songwriters: Mid '70s

ASIN: B000FPG1TE

Product Description

Time Life Music 2 CD SET R812-02/314545891-2 // Singers and Songwriters 1970-1971 // Disc 1: 1. Maggie May - Rod Stewart 5:49 2. It's Too Late - Carole King 3:55 3. Me And Bobby McGee - Janis Joplin 4:31 4. What's Going On - Marvin Gaye 3:54 5. Wild World - Cat Stevens 3:21 6. Ain't No Sunshine - Bill Withers 2:07 7. Mr. Bojangles - Nitty Gritty Dirt Band 5:12 8. Woodstock - Matthews' Southern Comfort 4:28 9. Uncle John's Band - The Grateful Dead 4:45 10. Here Comes The Sun - Richie Havens 3:48 11. Love The One You're With - Stephen Stills 3:07 12. Only You Know And I Know - Dave Mason 4:06 Disc 2: 1. Take Me Home, Country Roads - John Denver 3:13 2. Fire And Rain - James Taylor 3:24 3. Gypsy Woman - Brian Hyland 2:35 4. Peace Train - Cat Stevens 4:05 5. He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother - The Hollies 4:16 6. That's The Way I've Always Heard It Should Be - Carly Simon 4:17 7. Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology) - Marvin Gaye 3:17 8. The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down - Joan Baez 3:23 9. If - Bread 2:35 10. Lay Down (Candles In The Rain) - Melanie With The Edwin Hawkins Singers 3:56 11. Jealous Guy - John Lennon And The Plastic Ono Band 4:16 12. Sunshine - Jonathan Edwards 2:15

Average customer rating:

ONE OF THE BEST LA ALBUMS EVER
worth buying for "white line"
Overlooked/Underrated

Rockin' Chair
Jonathan Edwards
Manufacturer: Wounded Bird Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

General | Country | Styles | Music

General | Traditional Country | Country | Styles | Music

General | Folk | Styles | Music

Traditional Folk | Folk | Styles | Music

Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music

Folk Rock | Rock | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

Country Rock | Rock | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Sail Boat
Have a Good Time for Me
Jonathan Edwards
Lucky Day
Honky-Tonk Stardust Cowboy

ASIN: B000AMPZ30
Release Date: 2005-09-13

Tracks:

How Long
Hearts Overflowing
Favorite Song
White Line
Ain't Got Time
Hello
Song for the Life
Rockin' Chair (Gonna Get You)
Christian Life
Lady

Customer Reviews:

ONE OF THE BEST LA ALBUMS EVER.......2006-11-16

This album had a huge influence on me. It ranks as one of my top 3 albums ever. First of all, many of the players and singers on this album were friends and fellow session mates of mine, including the great James Burton who's playing is the tastiest you'll ever hear.
Cut in Coldwater Canyon in a house owned by Brian Ahern, this album has an honesty that's the essence of what California country rock was to all of us who played it and lived it.
What a cast..Herb Pederson, Emmory Gordy, John Ware, Hank Divito, Emmylou Harris, Ricky Skaggs...all weaving the best of their talents behind the angelic voice of Jonathon Edwards. Every song is a gem..from the incredible playing to the flawless singing & harmonies.
To this day, I listen to this album as a reference for every country rock album I'm involved in.
Don't miss out on this rare gem of an album that captures what was the real heart and style of what is now called California Country Rock.
John Beland
Flying Burrito Brothers
Austin TX

worth buying for "white line".......2006-09-28

i heard "white line" at about 4 a.m. driving home from a late night e.r. shift and it was so moving. one of those songs you really have to have. i think "sailboat" is overall his finest album but rockin' chair is worth buying just for white line.

Overlooked/Underrated.......2005-09-24

It's not as good as his phenomenal debut, but this one is a hidden gem. There aren't wall-to-wall beauties like the first one, but at least three strongs stand among Edwards' finest: Hearts Overflowing (an ideal wedding song), White Line and the title song. The production is a little too lush, and lacks the acoustic immediacy of the debut. So I keep comparing this album to "Jonathan Edwards" and coming up short. Still, if you've got that one and are looking for more, this may be the next place to go.

Average customer rating:

unknown treasure
worth a listen

Sail Boat
Jonathan Edwards
Manufacturer: Wounded Bird Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

General | Country | Styles | Music

General | Traditional Country | Country | Styles | Music

General | Folk | Styles | Music

Traditional Folk | Folk | Styles | Music

General | Pop | Styles | Music

Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music

Folk Rock | Rock | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

Country Rock | Rock | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Rockin' Chair
Lucky Day
Have a Good Time for Me
Honky-Tonk Stardust Cowboy
Jonathan Edwards

ASIN: B000AMPZ3A
Release Date: 2005-09-13

Tracks:

Blow on Chilly Wind
Evangelina
Sailboat
People Get Ready
How About You
Girl from the Canyon
Weapon of Prayer
Never Together (But Close Sometimes)
Carolina Caroline
Let the Rough Side Drag

Customer Reviews:

unknown treasure.......2006-05-29

I enjoyed Jonathan Edwards earlier work with "sunshine", "everybody knows her" and "stop and start again" all of which received some radio exposure. I purchased this album unheard in 1977 based on the previous work. I was quite pleased on the first play.

Through the years i would dub "blow on chilly wind", "let the rough side drag" and my favorite "carolina caroline" to cassette and distribute them to my friends for their listening pleasure. Everybody enjoyed the music.

I was sorry to note that the album was deteriorating over the years and held no hope the music would make it to cd since it was hardly a chartbuster. I occasionally do a search on amazon for music that i hope might be available on cd and was thrilled to see this music available again. The quality is just fine and without the hiss and ticks of the lp.

I would suggest that if you enjoy what has been termed California AOR you acquire this piece. It's not going to jump out and grab you but if you find yourself sitting on a balcony overlooking the gulf with the breeze in your hair and the sound of waves breaking in the background this is a dandy cd to just veg out to.

worth a listen.......2005-09-23

carolina caroline is a great song. i find myself playing it over and over again.

Music Review: