Angel Fire

Angel Fire

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
For years northern Virginia has been a mecca for the likes of Emmylou Harris, Del McCoury, Vassar Clements, and the Seldom Scene. The small clubs there nurture artists, freeing them from having to conform to trends. Now one can add the Kennedys to that stately list of Virginians. After years of backing Kate Wolf, Mary Chapin-Carpenter, and Nanci Griffith, the Kennedys come into their own on their third album. Husband and wife Pete and Maura Kennedy have produced a sparkling album of unassuming songs performed with understated authority. Whereas their first album, River of Fallen Stars, had a decidedly Celtic feel, Angel Fire offers more of a folk-pop aura, albeit with a strong traditional undercurrent. Nothing here rings false. In fact, the whole album could be performed on a coffeehouse stage, and therein lies much of its charm. --Anthony Bonet

Tracks:

For Elise
Sonata No. 14, Op. 27 No. 2 'Clair de Lune': 1st movement - Adagio sostenuto
Marche Militaire
Moment Musical No. 3
La Campanella, Etude No. 3: After Paganini
Reve D'amour
La Ronde Des Lutins
Etude No. 3, Op. 10 No. 3
Valse Brillante, Op. 34 No. 3
Nocturne No. 13, Op. 48
Mazurka, Op. 33, No. 2: Mazurka, Op. 33 No. 2
Prelude No. 15, Op. 28: Goutte D'eau
Polonaise 'Heroique', Op. 53
Valse, Op. 39
Hungarian Dance No. 1
Scenes d'enfants: Reverie
L'album a la jeunesse: Le Gai laboureur
Carnival Of Vienna: Intermezzo
Op. 62, No. 6: Spring Song - Mendelssohn
La Tartine De Beurre
Sonata K. 331: Marche Turque
Jesu, Joy Of Man's Desiring - Bach

Tracks:

Tambourin
Sonata For Flute And Piano, BWV 1031: Sicilienne
Le Coucou
Au Printemps, Op. 53
Suite Bergamasque: Clair De Lune
Children's Corner: Golliwog's Cake-Walk
Preludes, Book 1: La Fille Aux Cheveux De Lin
3 Mouvements Perpetuels
Gymnopedie No. 1
Gnossienne No. 3
Dolly: Berceuse
Gaspard de la nuit: Scarbo
Pavane pour une Infante defunte
'Scaramouche' For Two Pianos: Brazileira
L'Amour sorcier: Ritual Fire Dance
Danse Espagnole No. 5: Andaluza
Tango
Prelude En Ut Diese Mineur, Op. 3, No. 2
Pictures At An Exhibition: Great Gate Of Kiev
The Entertainer

Sergei Prokofiev, Enfant Terrible (1891-1953): A 50th Anniversary Celebration

Average customer rating:

An eye-opening Prokofiev survey (try to buy it used)

Sergei Prokofiev, Enfant Terrible (1891-1953): A 50th Anniversary Celebration

Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Ballets | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

Modern & 20th Century | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Russian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Cantatas | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Movie Scores | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music
ASIN: B000084H93
Release Date: 2003-04-08

Customer Reviews:

An eye-opening Prokofiev survey (try to buy it used).......2006-03-26

I can't see paying full price for a two-CD compensdium, even one as lavish as this package, when all the itmes are samples for promoting Universal's catalog (expect a good representation by Ashkenazy, Rostropovich, Previn, and Gergiev). But the selection is good enough and often rare eough to warrant a buy if the price is low.

As I listened straight through, I was surprised at how unacquainted I actually was with the wide extent of Prokofiev's style. From the very early "Dreams," which could be mistaken for Glazunov through the unfamiliar operas (Betrothal in a Monastery Garden, Semyon Kotko) to the final, sadly diminished works like the Seventh Sym. and the cello concerto, the composer covered every major Russian style of the century. I didn't find any new masterful performances--not that a short excerpt is a good enough trial--but everything here is well performced. Any listener should find something unexpected and intriguing in this two-and-a-half-hour traversal.

Courage Under Fire Original Soundtrack Recording

Average customer rating:

Courage Under Horner
A Solemn Tribute to Fallen Soldier

Courage Under Fire Original Soundtrack Recording
James Horner
Manufacturer: Angel Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

The Pagemaster
Radio Flyer
Courage Under Fire
K-19 the Widowmaker (Score)
Dennis the Menace

ASIN: B000002SJU
Release Date: 1996-07-30

Tracks:

Hymn
Al Bathra / Main Title
Friendly Fire / Ilario's Story
The Elegy
Courage Under Fire
Monfriez's Suicide
Night Mutiny
The Betrayal
Playing Back The Tape
The Medal Of Honor / A Final Resting Place

Customer Reviews:

Courage Under Horner.......2006-12-13

"Courage Under Fire" is another excellent work by James Horner. When 'Hymn' opens the CD, you can tell you are in front of a great score; it's very touching and it best conveys what the two main characters in this movie are going through. There is also great action music, especially in 'Al Bathra/Main Title' and 'Monfriez's Suicide', with Horner's signature use of percussion, as well as intense thrilling moments as heard in 'Night Mutiny'.
This album is so good I virtually listen to it twice in one single playback. It almost passes as a guilty pleasure, but this is one fine work by James Horner that can be considered a classic.

A Solemn Tribute to Fallen Soldier.......2003-01-19

The score is a fitting tribute, almost like a hymn, to the fallen soldier. If you like the soundtracks for "Saving Private Ryan" or "Band of Brothers", you would also like this one. It's kind of melachonly, but not melodramatic, and it transpire the sound of heroism of those who make the supreme sacrifice in the brutality of war.

Scriabin - Symphonies Nos.1-3 · Le Poème de l'extase · Promethée, le poème du feu / Stefania Toczyska · Michael Myers · Dmitri Alexeev · Riccardo Muti

Average customer rating:

I like Ashkenazy better!

Scriabin - Symphonies Nos.1-3 · Le Poème de l'extase · Promethée, le poème du feu / Stefania Toczyska · Michael Myers · Dmitri Alexeev · Riccardo Muti
Alexander Scriabin , Riccardo Muti , and The Choral Arts Society of Philadelphia The Philadelphia Orchestra
Manufacturer: Angel Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

Modern & 20th Century | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Classical | Box Sets | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Beethoven: Complete Overtures
Corelli: 12 Concerti grossi, op. 6
The Penguin Guide to Compact Discs and DVDs 2005/06 Edition: The Key Classical Recordings on CD, DVD and SACD, 30th Anniversary Edition (Penguin Guide to Compact Discs and Dvds)

ASIN: B00005MIZO
Release Date: 2002-11-05

Tracks:

Sym No.1 in E, Op.26: I. Lento
Sym No.1 in E, Op.26: II. Allegro Drammatico
Sym No.1 in E, Op.26: III. Lento
Sym No.1 in E, Op.26: IV. Vivace
Sym No.1 in E, Op.26: V. Allegro
Sym No.1 in E, Op.26: VI. Andante - Stefania Toczyska/Michael Myers/The Westminster Chor/Joseph Flummerfelt

Tracks:

Sym No.2 in c, Op.29: I. Andante -
Sym No.2 in c, Op.29: II. Allegro
Sym No.2 in c, Op.29: III. Andante
Sym No.2 in c, Op.29: IV. Tempestuoso
Sym No.2 in c, Op.29: V. Maestoso
Le Poeme De L'Extase, Op.54 - Frank Kaderabek

Tracks:

Sym No.3 in c, Op.43 'Le Divin Poeme': I. Intro: Lento: Divin, Grandiose - Luttes: Allegro...
Sym No.3 in c, Op.43 'Le Divin Poeme': II. Voluptes: Lento: Sublime - Vivo: Divin Essai
Sym No.3 in c, Op.43 'Le Divin Poeme': III. Jeu Divin: Allegro: Avec Une Joie Eclatante
Promethee, Le Poeme Du Feu, Op.60 - Dmitri Alexeev/The Choral Arts Society Of Philadelphia/Sean Deibler

Customer Reviews:

I like Ashkenazy better!.......2005-01-11

Muti is great with his Philadelphia Orchestra. The recordings are high quality, but at times can get digitally distorted in the climaxes. The interpratations have a strength and expansiveness. But I still give Ashkenazy my top recommendation on the wonderfully bargin priced Trio label. He tops Muti threefold in his power, profundity, and energy! Plus the digital sound beats is clearer and more realistic than on Muti's set.

Scriabin was a Theosophist, who studied the works of Madamme Blavatsky (great female mystic). His works come from a place of spirituality and mysticism. His are inspired by the worlds religions from a esoteric approach. I can only compare his musical sound world to Franz Schmidt or Cyril Scott. Scriabin's music is on the verge of atonality, very modern sounding for the early 1900's. He took on the philosophical views of Wagner and expanded upon them, trying to create a new artform, which he didn't fulfill due to his untimely death. Look for the recording of Scriabin's "Preparation for the Final Mystery" on Decca also conducted by Ashkenazy.

Scriabin's 5 symphonies open the door to much inspiration on Nature and the Divine. There is no doubt that you can only gain by listening to Scriabin. Muti is a great start, but Ashkenazy totally understands Scriabin!

Average customer rating:

Manuel de Falla: Obras Para Piano

Manufacturer: Angel Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Fantasies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
ASIN: B000002S4A
Release Date: 1992-08-18

Tracks:

Piezas espanolas: Aragonesa
Piezas espanolas: Cubana
Piezas espanolas: Montanesa
Piezas espanolas: Andaluza
La vida breve: Danza No.2
El sombrero de tres picos: Danza de los vecinos (Seguidillas)
El sombrero de tres picos: Danza de la molinera (Fandango)
El amor brujo: Danza del terror
Fantsia betica

Average customer rating:

Superhits: 1968 (Time Life Music)
Merrilee Rush and the Turnabouts , Mason Williams , Spanky and Our Gang , Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell , The Lettermen , The Vogues , Mama Cass , Classics IV , Bobby Goldsboro , and Sergio Mendes and Brasil '66
Manufacturer: Time Life Music
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD
ASIN: B000SY01NE

Product Description

Song list: 1. A Beautiful Morning - The Rascals~~~2. Spooky - Classics IV~~~3. Light My Fire - Jose Feliciano~~~4. The Look of Love - Sergio Mendes and Brasil '66~~~5. Like to Get to Know You - Spanky and Our Gang~~~6. Classical Gas - Mason Williams~~~7. Angel of the Morning - Merrilee Rush and the Turnabouts~~~8. I Wish It Would Rain - The Temptations~~~9. Ain't Nothing Like the Real Thing - Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell~~~10. Do You Know the Way to San Jose - Dionne Warwick~~~11. Honey - Bobby Goldsboro~~~12. Hooked on a Feeling - B.J. Thomas~~~13. Stoned Soul Picnic - The 5th Dimension~~~14. Goin' Out of My Head/Can't Take My Eyes Off You - The Lettermen~~~15. Grazing in the Grass - Hugh Masakela~~~16. Turn Around, Look at Me - The Vogues~~~17. Wichita Lineman - Glen Campbell~~~18. (Theme from) Valley of the Dolls - Dionne Warwick~~~19. Dream a Little Dream of Me - Mama Cass~~~20. Abraham, Martin & John - Dion~~~21. I Heard It Through the Grapevine - Marvin Gaye~~~22. (Sittin' on) The Dock of the Bay - Otis Redding.

Sony Classical: Great Performances 1903-1998

Average customer rating:

What I Bought From Sony Companies
Strange interpretation of "classical"
An interesting mix...
A touch of history....
A touch of history....

Sony Classical: Great Performances 1903-1998

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Mazurkas | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Octets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Quartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Quintets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Etudes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Fugues | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Scherzo | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Modern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Psalms | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Movie Scores | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

Star Wars | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

Marches | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music

Classical | Box Sets | Stores | Music

Classical Instrumental Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Jazz: The Definitive Performances
Pop Music: The Modern Era 1976-1999

ASIN: B00000K2EX
Release Date: 1999-10-12

Tracks:

Il Barbiere di Siviglia: 'Largo Al Factotum'
Mazurka In G Major, 'Obertass,' Op.19, No.1
Contrasts For Violin, Clarinet And Piano: II. 'Piheno'
String Quartet In C Minor, Op.18, No.4: IV. Allegro - Prestissimo
Bachiana Brasileira No.5: Aria - Cantilena
Violin Concerto In E Minor, Op. 64: Allegro Molto Vivace
Rigoletto: 'La Donna E Mobile'
String Quartet No.4: II. Prestissimo, Con Sordino
Carnival Of The Animals: 'Fossils'
Concerto For Violin And Orchestra: III. Rondo. Allegro Spirituoso
Le tombeau de Couperin: I. Prelude
Hermit Songs: 'The Desire For Hermitage'
Variation 30 A 1 Clav. Quodlibet
From 'Goldberg' Variations: Aria
The Threepenny Opera: 'Mack The Knife'
Symphony No. 36 In C Major, K. 425 'Linz': III. Menuetto - Trio
Piano Concerto No. 21 In C Major: III. Allegro Vivace Assai
Symphonie espagnole In D Minor, Op. 21: V. Rondo (Allegro)
'Battle Hymn Of The Republic'
Madama Butterfly: 'Un Bel Di'

Tracks:

Le Sacre du printemps: 'Danse Sacrale'
El Amor Brujo: 'Ritual Fire Dance'
Rodeo (Four Hour Dance): 'Hoe-Down'
Fugue In G Minor, BWV 578 'Little'
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude No. 1 In C Major, BWV 846
Syphony No. 8 In F Major, Op. 93: II. Allegretto Scherzando
Slavonic Dance No. 8 In G Minor, Op. 46
Symphony No.2 In C Minor 'Resurrection': IV. 'Urlicht'
Chichester Psalms: I. Psalm 108
Octet In E-Flat Major, Op.20: III. Scherzo: Allegro Ieggierissimo
Etude In C-Sharp Minor, Op. 2, No.1
Etude In A-Flat Major, Op. 72, No.11
Concierto de Aranjuez: I. Allegro Con Spirito
Karelia Suite, Op.11: III. Alla Marcia. Moderato
Canzon Septimi Toni No.2
Fanfare For The Common Man
'Beau Soir'
Suite For Flute And Jazz Piano: 'Baroque And Blue'
Piano Concerto No. 20 In D Minor, K. 466: III. Rondo. Allegro Assai
Daphnis et Chloe: 'Danse Generale'

Tracks:

Eubie's Classical Rag
Intermezzo In B Minor, Op. 119, No. 1
III. Alegro
Behind The Gardens - Behind The Wall - Under The Tree
Perhaps Love
Facades
O mio babbino caro
Passo pel prat
III. Finale. Allegro
I. Allegro
Promenade (Walking The Dog)
Sonata No.5 In D Major For Cello And Piano: III. Alegro fugato
Turangalila II
IV. Rondo alla Zingarese. Presto
Mazurka In C Minor , Op. 56, No.3
String Quartet In D Minor, Op. 56 'Voces intimae': II. Vivace
Ch'ella mi creda libero e lontano

Tracks:

Main Theme From Star Wars
Andante
Salut d'amour, Op. 12
Minuet
Appalachia Waltz
Appalachia Waltz
Gershwin,
All The Delights Of The Season
Steam Engine
Summon The Heros
Prelude To Suite No. 1 In G Major
Brunnhilde's Battle Cry
Sonata In A Major
A Suite For Strings: The Murder
Flight Of The Bumblebee
Prelude To Suite No. 3 IN E
Libertango
Angel (Lust)
Theme From Schindler's List
I. Allegro ben ritmato e deciso
La donna e mobile
Gymnopedie No. 3
Song Of Peace

Customer Reviews:

What I Bought From Sony Companies.......2005-08-20

Bach, Goldberg Variations, Gould, Haydn, L. Mozart, Hummel, Wynton Marsalis, Leppard, Joseph Haydn, Walter (Japanese), Mozart Piano Concertos & Rondos, Murray Perahia, Mozart Quartets by Ax, Stern, Laredo, and Ma, Mozart Concerto Violin, Zukerman, Chopin, Concertos Piano, Gilels, Ormandy, Watts, Schippers, Bruckner, L'Archibudelli, Johannes Brahms, Gould, Brahms, Stern, Trios and Quartets, Brahms, Ax, Ma, Bizet, Carmen and L'Arlesienne suites, Bernstein, Dvorak, Herbert, Ma, Masur, Faure, Quartets, Ax, Stern, Laredo, Ma, Janacek, String Quartets, Alban Berg, Lyric Suite, Juilliard String Quartet, Copland Collection, Debussy, nocturnes, Upshaw, Esa-Pekka Salonen, Canteloube, John Williams Plays Barrios, Ligeti Edition, Claude Bolling, suites and such Jazz, 4 CDs, Joshua Bell, Bernstein, West Side Story. Albert, Bartok, Bloch, Ma, Zinman, John McLaughlin, Concerto for Guitar, and with Katia Labeque, Kathleen Battle.Wynton Marsalis, Baroque Duet,Kathleen Battle Jean-Pierre Rampal in Concert, Bobby McFerrin paper music, with Yo-Yo Ma in Hush, Katia & Marielle Labeque, Love of Colours, Wynton Marsalis, Baroque Music for Trumpets, and Elliot Goldenthal, Fire Water Paper, A Vietnam Oratorio.
I list these because I am trying to figure out what of value is in the Columbia, CBS, and Sony sound legacy in case they come back to the U.S. and revive classical music recording in this country.
Duane Crawford

Strange interpretation of "classical".......2005-01-17

I bought this CD because it contained some songs I was having a hard time finding elsewhere, such as Passo pel prat, Chants d'Auvergne sung by Fredrica Von Stade. However, some of the songs on this CD do not seem to belong e.g. all three songs by John Williams, Mack the Knife, Barbra Streisand, and the Psycho Murder Theme for starters, and many more.

I gave the CD 4 stars only because I was happy that I was able to find a few somewhat rare tracks.

An interesting mix..........2002-05-18

This is a sampler in the truest meaning of the word. I bought this 4 CD work primarly for two tracks, but also because I was interested to see what else was out there without investing a fortune in CD's I wouldn't like! I was surprised by the wide diversity of music ranging from true classical and jazz to contemporary compositions and interpretations.

While I find some tracks divine (Williams's _Schindler's List_), I find other tracks unsettling (_Beau Soir_ performed by Barbra Streisand). But when you are trying to span 100 years of music, you will (and should) encounter all tastes and styles. Overall, I really enjoy listening to this set. My only regret is that I don't have a CD changer...

A touch of history...........2002-01-28

An exceptional set. The history of music making of the 20th century in 4 CDs. Even from the first track with Giuseppe Campanari and Charles Adams Prince you can see that people put much time in collecting the best interpretations and putting together an amazing collection. Other highlights include the "Mack The Knife" with Lotte Lenya, the Bachiana Brasileiras, The Fanfare For The Common Man with LSO conducted by the composer and so many more. An undespiuted *****

A touch of history...........2002-01-28

Average customer rating:

Let's Celebrate Ravi!
Good Overview Ravi Shankar's Career
captivating
good mix of stuff, but NOT AT ALL for Hindustani purists
This record shows that Ravi Shankar is a genius!

In Celebration

Manufacturer: Angel Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Ballets | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

India | India & Pakistan | International | Styles | Music

General | India & Pakistan | International | Styles | Music

General | International | Styles | Music

General | Reggae | International | Styles | Music

General | Far East & Asia | International | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
ASIN: B000002SM5
Release Date: 1996-02-20

Tracks:

Charu Keshi
Bhatiyer
Adarini
Marwa
Dhun Kafi

Tracks:

V 71/2
Jait
Sandhya Raga
Ghanashym
Tilak Shyam

Tracks:

Sitar And Violin Duet
2nd Movement Sitar Concerto No.1
3rd Movement Sitar Concerto No. 1
Morning Love
Indo - Japan Finale
Enchanted Dawn
4th Movement Raga Mala (Sitar Concerto No. 2)

Tracks:

Vandana
Hey Nath
Pather Panchali
Supaney Mein Aye
West Eats Meat
Oh Bhagawan
Friar Park
Tana Mana
I Am Missing You
Ta Na Tom
Fire Night
Sanwarey, Sanwarey
Dispute And Violence
Shanti Mantra

Customer Reviews:

Let's Celebrate Ravi!.......2007-06-14

In the history of recorded music, few "artists"- if any- have brought the world such a wide variety of material over such a long period of time as Ravi Shankar. He has been with us now, as it were, for over eighty years, and during his 75th year on earth, around 1995/96, this item, a set entitled "Ravi: In Celebration", was released to the public. The purpose was to "show the different aspects of Ravi's music" in the words of the late George Harrison, ex-Beatle, Ravi friend and fan, and among the compilers of the set. I aquired the set sometime later (I came to this man's music a bit later than 1996) and am now here to review it. So... In a word: WOW! Firstly, I don't know of many western artists who have even been honored with a boxed set like this, IF they make it to 75, which seems to be a big if these days. Secondly, what a wide array of wonderful material this set presents us with. The catagories are split for ways (in accordance with the number of discs) as follows: Disc 1- Classical Sitar, Disc 2- Orchestral and Ensembles, Disc 3- East-West collaborations, and Disc 4- Vocal and Experimental. Currently discs 1 and 4 are my favorites, but I will give an overview of each, as briefly as possible. Disc 1: This is probably the CD that will sound most like the Ravi Shankar you've heard before, especially if you've bought any other Shankar CDs. It consists of 5, ragas (that is, traditional India pieces; I don't really know any technical info here), each of lengthy duration, for the westerner anyhow. Each is enjoyable in its own uinque way: the first two have an exhilerating, playful atmosphere about them (especially the first, Charu Keshi), while the third is an interesting, if simple, piece composed by Ravi by his daughter, who plays sitar on it, the remainder is fairly enjoyable, great ragas really, although for those unprepared, track four is an evening raga, and is VERY slow for the most part, it is still enjoyable if, and only if, you really take the time to sit down and listen. 5/5 for disc 1. Disc 2: I know I've already said that disc 1 will be most like the Ravi you've heard, but if, on the other hand Arpan is all you've heard before coming to this compilation, these tracks will sound more familiar. All the orchestral tracks, the first two for me especially, are enjoyable and fiarly vibrant and varient, sonically. Overall highlights here include: V 7 1/2, and a track played entirley by an ensemble of Ravi and his sitar students. A solid 4.5/5 for this disc, not the strongest around. Disc Three: Here we beging the spectacular East-West collaborations. Starting off with a violin/sitar duet, and carrying through several movements of Ravi's various Sitar Concertos, an even stopping for an incredible live track, Indo-Japan Finale, this disc never seems to let up. These are just awe-enspiring collaborations. Highlights include: Sitar and Violin Duet, the second and third movements from Ravi's Sitar Concerto number one, as well as the afformentioned Indo-Japan Finale. Also of note is a beatiful track called Morning Love, in which Ravi duets with a classical flutist. 5/5
Disc 4: OK. First off, I've read some reviews here, claiming that this disc often sounds "dated and contrived". Well, I'm here to tell you that its neither. This disc is a favorite of mine, and unless you fall into the catagory of "Hindustani Purist", or easly see things as dated or the like, there is no reason not to open your mind to this disc. For starters, Friar Park is an absolutley GORGEOUS track recorded at George Harrison's mansion; behold how autoharp, sitar, and marimba mix, soncially. Then I suggest a huge favorite of mine, the funky West East Meat (what a title!) In it Ravi, and a few other Indian musicians basically jam with jazz bassist and the result is fun, and oftne weird (lookout for Ravi's utterances of random fraises in Bengali.) Fire Night is brilliant piece sure to win over jazz lovers, and Dispute and Violence, another hug favorite, starts off with unaccompanied vocals but quickly evolves into catch piece with with a brilliant hook. Tracks like Tana Mana are relaxing, in an almost hypnotic way, while the vocal offering, I am Missing You, sung in English by Ravi's sister-in-law, Lakshmi, is gorgeous in different sort of way than the other tracks: lyrically it emulates emotion and innocence and, despite arguable over-prodcution, still comes across as something fresh and different. In short, the open-minded will appreciate it most.Other material on this disc, such as the vocal offerings many of which have beautiful lyrical interpretations, will grow on you. 5/5 for disc 4, easily.
Finally, the sound qaulity is very good (except for a track or two where Gramaphone Company of India, Ltd, seems to have preserved material poorly), the mixes, and instruments crystal clear (you can really hear those tablas), and there is a booklet sewn into the package, so you won't be loosing it easily. The booklet offers a biography of Ravi, photos, and info on all the tracks, including Ravi's own notes, from which I draw much of the information for this review, and more. Also, lookout for George Harrison's brief introduction, which I quoted during this review. Overall, a wonderful music, wonderful sound, wonderful booklet= wonderful package. 5/5- A+. Let's celebrate Ravi!

Good Overview Ravi Shankar's Career.......2001-08-10

This box set is a good overview of Ravi Shankar's career. The classical Cd is especially good. Perhaps the set should have been at least 6 cd's with the additional discs being pure classical since R.S does constantly insists he is a purely classical musician.

I find parts of the East-West and Vocal and Experimentation disc to be dated and contrived ,not too interesting after a few listenings and as a result I rarely play these discs.

Listening to this set will enhance your appreciation for Indian classical music and for Pandit Ravi Shankar.

The accompanying booklet is quite nice , although I would suggest R. Shankars book Raga-Mala. I also think that the current remastered Angel CD 's are a good value. For those looking for good overview of Hindustani music check out the Raga Guide: Survey 74 Hindustani Ragas .

captivating.......1999-08-05

It's true, the quality of the music varies greatly from disc to disc and sometimes from track to track, but that's a concomitant of the fun, part of the exploring. My favorite piece is the Yehudi Menuhin collaboration. (Mr. Menuhin reveals in his autobiography he never learned to improvise, but you couldn't tell it by this: he plays with conviction and spontaneity.) The "classical" disc is consistently good; the movements for sitar and orchestra are fascinating; the pop song "I Am Missing You" is amusing. The set is attractively packaged and includes a lengthy biography of Ravi Shankar with historically significant photographs.

Also recommended (for sitar players too): PENTATONIC SCALES FOR THE JAZZ-ROCK KEYBOARDIST by Jeff Burns.

good mix of stuff, but NOT AT ALL for Hindustani purists.......1999-05-28

Initially this set was the jewel of my Hindustani collection, but overtime, some of the experimental music gets tiresome (especially disc 4) The classical sitar CD is excellent and shows Pandit Shankar in his prime with the masterful accompaniment of tabla player, Ustad Alla Rakha. The ensemble disc is really nice too, getting to experiment with the likes of south Indian players like violinist Dr. L. Subramaniam. The east/west disc is exhilarating at first, but the more familiar one becomes with the music, the sillier some of these collaborations seem. OFten what happens with the east meets west things is that one of the musicians leads with the other following/immitating (often blindly and lost). I do want to emphasize though, that the easterner is not always the leader or the one with superior understanding of how to collaborate. Anyway, this set serves well to introduce people to north Indian classical music, but some of it is too fabricated to stand the test of time. For pure sitar playing, I would suggest Nikhil Banerjee's "raga S.KHamaj/Manomanjari" double disc on the Raga label.

This record shows that Ravi Shankar is a genius!.......1999-02-25

All the records that I heard of Ravi Shankar's performances are masterpieces. Thanks to Ravi Shankar, I learned that good music does not mean only Western music.

Average customer rating:

Wonderful & fresh
DE-CAFF
Hauntingly beatiful
this album's excellent!
Literate folk-rock filled with interesting ideas and music

Angel Fire
The Kennedys
Manufacturer: Philo / Umgd
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music

General | Folk | Styles | Music

Traditional Folk | Folk | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Folk | Indie Music | Stores | Music

Contemporary Folk | Folk | Indie Music | Stores | Music
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ASIN: B00000AFD0
Release Date: 1998-09-15

Tracks:

Common Bond
The Coo Coo
Bells & Loaves & Letters
Angels Cry
The Fire & The Rose
Just Like Henry David
Father In The Flame
A Bend In The River
Jesse
A Letter To Emily
Angle Fire
Hey Vin
A Place In Time

Amazon.com

For years northern Virginia has been a mecca for the likes of Emmylou Harris, Del McCoury, Vassar Clements, and the Seldom Scene. The small clubs there nurture artists, freeing them from having to conform to trends. Now one can add the Kennedys to that stately list of Virginians. After years of backing Kate Wolf, Mary Chapin-Carpenter, and Nanci Griffith, the Kennedys come into their own on their third album. Husband and wife Pete and Maura Kennedy have produced a sparkling album of unassuming songs performed with understated authority. Whereas their first album, River of Fallen Stars, had a decidedly Celtic feel, Angel Fire offers more of a folk-pop aura, albeit with a strong traditional undercurrent. Nothing here rings false. In fact, the whole album could be performed on a coffeehouse stage, and therein lies much of its charm. --Anthony Bonet

Customer Reviews:

Wonderful & fresh.......1999-09-20

Fresh wonderful music based in the best of Rock and Folk with influences by the Byrds, the Beatles, and Gabriel Faure. Reminescent of the best early 70s music (ie. Cat Stevens and Jim Croce) but with a lyricism and musicality that is unique. Highly reccommended.

DE-CAFF.......1999-07-10

Worthless irrepentable trash...garbage

Hauntingly beatiful.......1999-03-02

I normally am not a folk-rock fan, but I was able to hear the contents of this CD before I purchased it, and once I bought it, I couldn't quit playing it. The arrangements seem to be sparse and understated but the overall effect is simply genuine and beautiful. My favorites are tracks 4, 7, and 9. I find those three songs playing within my head over and over.

this album's excellent!.......1999-02-09

Tracks 4 and 9 are the best. I say it's a combination of Loreena McKennet, Crosby,Stills,Nash and Young, and Gillian Welsh. Folk? Rock? I don't know but it's a good find. So what if it's not "deep" or "insightful".

Literate folk-rock filled with interesting ideas and music.......1999-01-24

This husband and wife team wears their influences on their sleeve - quite literally, on the CD sleeve. Books (Chekhov, Rilke) and records (Dylan, Beatles, Byrds) that inspired the words and music of their third LP can be found annotating each song's lyrics.

Despite the tinge of intellectualism, the music is as warm and inviting as the oversized cups the Kennedys hold in nearly every photo. Their coffeehouse folk is rife with fluid melodies and chiming 12-string guitar, and their vocalizing takes inspiration from mid-60s duos like Ian & Silvia and Richard & Mimi Farina.