Dream Cafe

Dream Cafe

Track Listings

1. Just by Myself

2. Sleeper

3. I Don't Know That Guy

4. So Hard

5. You Can Watch Me

6. Dream Café

7. You Drive Me Crazy

8. Spring Wind

9. Nice When It Rains

10. Laughing River

11. No Place Away

12. I Don't Want to Be the One

Tracks:

Just By Myself
Sleeper
I Don't Know That Guy
So Hard
Yu Can Watch Me
Dream Cafe'
You Drive Me Crazy
Spring Wind
Nice When It Rains
Laughing River
No Place Away
I Don't Want To Be The One

Customer Reviews:

Simply Greg Brown's Best.......2006-02-13

Many of us think this is Greg Brown's best album. Reasonable minds can differ, of course, but they have to get around the extraordinary imagery of the title cut, the plaintive story sketched in "Laughing River" and the deceptively simple melody line of "Spring Wind."

Yesterday I had a vision, under the tree where we first talked
Of an old couple burning their love letters
So their children won't be shocked.

Songs of love and disappointment, hope and loss, as well as the messy business of life. Never self-pitying, brutally honest, with melodies that can sear the lyrics into your mind.

I came down with a sickness; I thought you were the cure
But passion seems to promise more
Than friendship can endure.

Greg Brown doesn't have any bad albums. But some are a little better than the rest. And this is simply the cream of the crop. My very highest recommendation.

Great voice, great music,, great imagery..........2005-08-08

Ah, I love this guy! Brown's voice can go from back-of-the-bar room gravely to plaintative soprano... The music goes from folky to country to bluesy and is always great. The imagery in his songs are fantastic too -- some creepy rural themes, like the soundtrack to an Andrew Wyeth painting (ie. "Sleeper".) The song "Dream Cafe" makes me feel like I'm in an open air restaurant in Arizona... Which is odd because I've never been to Arizona... Case in point, this guy can do imagery...

greghead.......2004-07-20

This album is amazing. I was immediately taken by Sleeper, and from that point on, just wowing...!!!!

Dream Cafe.......2003-06-05

Insightful and inspirational. Quit reading this and buy it!

Greg lets his finest come to your ears...........2003-01-04

If you are familiar with Greg Brown, you probably are familiar with this release. If you don't have it, get it and treat yourself to an experience that take you on a journey of loves lost and loves to come. For those who are curious about Greg's work, this is an excellent place to start. There is not a bad cut here, and in particular, "Dream Cafe", "Spring Wind" and "Laughing River" are a trio of songs that somehow work some sort of magic into allowing me to see into life a bit deeper for a period of time. Two other releases that go along well with this are "Further In" and "The Poet Game."

Broadway - The American Musical (PBS Series)

Average customer rating:

Fabulous for any Broadway-lover
Top Shelf
TERRIFIC CD'S
Great Collection of Broadways greatest Songs
Great Compilation!

Broadway - The American Musical (PBS Series)

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

The Best of Broadway - The American Musical (PBS Series)
Broadway: The American Musical
Broadway: The American Musical
Broadway - The American Musical (PBS Series)
Somewhere over the Rainbow: The Golden Age of Hollywood Musicals

ASIN: B00064ADMK
Release Date: 2004-10-19

Tracks:

Give My Regards To Broadway- Joel Grey
Swanee- Al Jolson
When The Moon Shines On The Moonshine- Bert Williams
A Pretty Girl Is Like A Melody- John Steel
My Man- Fanny Brice
Fascinating Rhythm- Fred Astaire, Adele Astaire
If You Knew Susie (Like I Know Susie)- 78rpm Version Eddie Cantor
Someone To Watch Over Me- Gertrude Lawrence
Bill- 78 rpm Version Helen Morgan
Ol' Man River- Paul Robeson
Ain't Misbehavin'- Louis Armstrong & His Orchestra
Ten Cents A Dance- Ruth Etting
Body And Soul- Libby Holman
Brother, Can You Spare A Dime- Bing Crosby
Night And Day- Fred Astaire
Heat Wave- Ethel Waters
Smoke Gets in Your Eyes- Tamara
You're The Top- Ethel Merman
Summertime- Anne Brown
September Song- Walter Huston
My Heart Belongs To Daddy- Mary Martin
It Never Entered My Mind- Shirley Ross
Bewitched, Bothered, Bewildered- Vivienne Segal
Oh, How I Hate To Get Up In The Morning- Irving Berlin
Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin'- Alfred Drake

Tracks:

New York, New York- Cris Alexander,Adolph Green,John Reardon
If I Loved You- John Raitt,Jan Clayton
Come Rain Or Come Shine- Ruby Hill,Harold Nicholas
There's No Business Like Show Business- Ensemble
How Are Things In Glocca Morra? From "Finian's Rainbow"- Ella Logan
Once In Love With Amy- Ray Bolger
Wunderbar- Alfred Drake,Patricia Morison
Some Enchanted Evening- Ezio Pinza
Lost In The Stars- Todd Duncan
Diamonds Are A Girl's Best Friend- Carol Channing
Luck Be A Lady- Robert Alda,Guys
Getting To Know You- Gertrude Lawrence
Who Cares?- Jack Carson,Betty Oakes
Stranger In Paradise- from " Kismet" Doretta Morrow,Richard Kiley
Ballad Of Mack The Knife- Gerald Price
Hey There- from "The Pajama Game" John Raitt
Whatever Lola Wants- Gwen Verdon
I Could Have Danced All Night- Julie Andrews
Standing On The Corner- from "The Most Happy Fella, 1956" Shorty Long,John Henson,Alan Gilbert
The Party's Over- Judy Holliday
Glitter And Be Gay- Barbara Cook
Tonight- Larry Kert, Carol Lawrence

Tracks:

Seventy-Six Trombones- Robert Preston
I Enjoy Being A Girl- from "Flower Drum Song, 1958" Pat Suzuki
Everything's Coming Up Roses- Ethel Merman
My Favorite Things- from "The Sound Of Music" Mary Martin
Put On A Happy Face- from "Bye Bye Birdie" Dick Van Dyke
Try To Remember- Jerry Orbach
Camelot- from "Camelot" Richard Burton
Love Makes The World Go 'Round- Anna Maria Alberghetti
I Believe In You- Robert Morse And Co.
The Sweetest Sounds- Diahann Carroll,Richard Kiley
Comedy Tonight- Zero Mostel
What Kind Of Fool Am I?- Anthony Newley
As Long As He Needs Me- Georgia Brown
Hello, Dolly!- Carol Channing,Cast
People- Barbra Streisand
Anyone Can Whistle- from "Anyone Can Whistle" Lee Remick
If I Were A Rich Man- Zero Mostel
Night Song- Sammy Davis, Jr.
The Impossible Dream- Richard Kiley
If My Friends Could See Me Now- Gwen Verdon
Open a New Window- from Mame Voice

Tracks:

Willkommen- from "Cabaret" Joel Grey
Let The Sunshine In- James Rado,Lynn Kellogg,Melba Moore,Cast
I'll Never Fall In Love Again- Jill O'Hara,Jerry Orbach
The Ladies Who Lunch- from "Company" Elaine Stritch
Tea For Two- Roger Rathburn,Susan Watson
I'm Still Here- Yvonne De Carlo
I Don't Know How To Love Him- Yvonne Elliman
We Go Together- Adrienne Barbeau,Barry Bostwick,Walter Bobbie,Cast
Corner Of The Sky- John Rubinstein
Send In The Clowns- Glynis Johns
Ease On Down The Road- Stephanie Mills,Tiger Haynes,Ted Ross,Hinton
One- from "A Chorus Line" Cast
All That Jazz- Chita Rivera,Ensemble
Tomorrow- Andrea Mcardle
Don't Cry For Me Argentina- Patti Lupone
Come Follow The Band
Lullaby Of Broadway- Jerry Orbach
And I'm Telling You I'm Not Going- Jennifer Holliday
The Bells Of St. Sebastian- Raul Julia

Tracks:

Memory- Betty Buckley
I Am What I Am- George Hearn
Move On- Bernadette Peters,Mandy Patinkin
Do You Hear The People Sing?- Michael Maguire,Cast
The Music Of The Night- Michael Crawford
You're Nothing Without Me- James Naughton,Gregg Edelman
The American Dream- Jonathan Pryce,Cast
Doctor Jazz- Gregory Hines,Company
With One Look- Glenn Close
On Broadway- Adrian Bailey,Frederick B. Owens,Ken Ard,Victor Trent Cook
Le Jazz Hot- Julie Andrews,Ensemble
Seasons Of Love-
Hakuna Matata- Max Casella,Tom Alan Robbins,Scott Irby-Ranniar,Jason Raize
I Wanna Be A Producer- Matthew Broderick,Ensemble
Dancing Queen- Louise Plowright,Jenny Galloway
Good Morning Baltimore- Marissa Jaret Winokur
Movin' Out- Michael Cavanaugh,Band
I Go To Rio- Hugh Jackman,Company
Defying Gravity- Kristin Chenoweth,Idina Menzel

Customer Reviews:

Fabulous for any Broadway-lover.......2007-01-30

Packs into 5 CD's a sampling of Broadway tunes from the 20's thru (almost) today, mostly from original cast recordings. Includes not just well-known hits, but also some lesser-known gems. Sound quality is first rate, booklet is informative too. Have given this as a gift to several friends with rave reviews.

Top Shelf.......2007-01-04

This is THE definitive collection of Broadway hits. I have other collections, and none of them measure up. A great deal of care was obviously taken in compiling and presenting this box set. It covers a lot of ground, starting with some long-forgotten but still very enjoyable hits from the days of yore, and finishing with present-day favorites. To the best of my knowledge, the recordings are by those who made them famous. You won't be disappointed.

TERRIFIC CD'S.......2006-03-23

THESE BROADWAY MUSICALS CD'S ARE A BROADWAY LOVERS DREAM. WITH EACH SONG, MEMORIES COME FLOODING BACK. BOTH THE FAMILIAR AND THE FORGOTTEN SONGS ARE A TRUE LISTENING PLEASURE. IF YOU LIKE BROADWAY, YOU'LL LOVE THIS SET.

Great Collection of Broadways greatest Songs .......2005-06-14

This Collection was perfectly made it has almost all the most famous Broadway songs on this 5 cd set. The Music is great and has Broadways greatest treasures like "Memory""People""With One Look""Give my regards Too Broadway" just to name a few of this numerous cd set with over 100 songs. This is a great buy if you like musicals or The music of Broadway

Great Compilation!.......2005-01-17

If you are a fan of the Broadway Musicals, this is a collection that you should purchase. Since I got the 5 disc set I've enjoyed listening to it. The majority of the songs are done by the original singers. The collection is priceless considering that you will have over 100 songs from popular musicals since the beginning of Broadway

Average customer rating:

Great take on Satie
I may be too harsh but this was a disappointment
Quite... simply...a joy!
Maybe the best...
A new standard for Satie

The Magic of Satie
Thibaudet , and Satie
Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

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Similar Items:

Satie: Piano Works
After the Rain...The Soft Sounds of Erik Satie
The Best of Erik Satie
The Chopin I Love
Satie: Gymnopédies No1-3; Gnossiennes No1-6

ASIN: B0000665EW
Release Date: 2002-09-10

Tracks:

Gymnopedie No.1
Gnossiennes No.1
Gnossiennes No.2
Gnossiennes No.3
Gnossiennes No.4
Gnossiennes No.5
Gnossiennes No.6
Gnossiennes No.7
Verset Laique & Somptueux
Gymnopedie No.2
Je Te Veux
Prelude
Entr'acte
Finale
The Dreamy Fish
Le 'Piccadilly'
The Angora Ox
Gymnopedie No.3
I. Ne Bois Pas Ton Chocolat Avec Tes Doigts
II. Ne Souffle Pas Dans Tes Oreilles
III. Ne Mets Pas Ta Tete Sous Ton Bras
I. Allegro
II. Andante
III. Vivache
La Diva De L'Empire
I. Marche Franco-Lunaire
II. Valse Du Mysterieux Baiser Dans L'oeil
I. Preambule
II. Coquecigrue
III. Chasse
IV. Fanfaronnade
V. Retraite (Pour Sortir)

Amazon.com

Don't judge this splendid disc by its silly title. Jean-Yves Thibaudet has put together an imaginatively programmed and gorgeously played Erik Satie recital that is certain to acquire reference status alongside the classic Satie recordings by Aldo Ciccolini, his one-time mentor. The difference lies in Decca's far superior sonics, and Thibaudet's warmer, more robust piano sonority. He imbues the music with subtle dynamic gradations and varied articulations that keep Satie's sparse textures vibrant and fresh, without any of the posturing and willfully slow tempi favored by several Satie specialists. Thibaudet cleverly separates the three famous Gymnopédies and intersperses them between brooding works like the Gnossiennes, upbeat, dry-witted selections ("Jack in the Box" and "La Belle Excentrique," along with some fascinating world premieres). And it's refreshing to hear the cabaret song "Je Te Veux" so seamlessly phrased, as if vocal chords had temporarily replaced the piano's hammers. Simply a joy. --Jed Distler

Customer Reviews:

Great take on Satie.......2007-01-05

I spent a lot of time listening to sound clips to decide which Satie CD to buy. Some of the other ones I listened to had too much background noise or were too mechanical. I love the eb and flow that Thibaudet adds to the piano music. It is gorgeous!

I may be too harsh but this was a disappointment.......2005-08-30

I purchased this CD to replace a favorite tape that had worn out of nearly the same collection of Satie pieces. The music is great but Thibaudet plays it without the upbeat enthusiasm that makes the music magic. Sorry, Thibaudet.

Quite... simply...a joy!.......2003-01-09

Extraordinary, eloquent, intimate and impassioned performances. Each time I listen, I get taken deeper into Satie, yes, but also into *music* itself. Satie's music is really meant for the performer (note his comments on the score), intimately.

I also think Satie used it as map & vehicle rather than as destination. (I used to refer to - and prefer - Aldo Ciccolini while reading the score. Thibaudet has provided a whole new landscape to fit the map.)

Although Satie said his music should be performed "so that no-one listens to it," I think he was actually trying to get to us in the same way that admonishing someone to not think about elephants has the opposite effect.

Thibaudet's interpretations are a joy to listen to, to pay attention to. (And I thought I knew Satie...!) Whether taken as seriously as a mating dance, or as playful as one, there is a profound sense of intimacy here.

If your impression of Satie is that he wrote "furniture music" long before Muzak - sounds to provide a background while you eat or chat or have drinks, or shop at Nordstroms - then this recording may reawaken you. Thiba breathes new life into Satie, new levels: it seems to take one into deeper realms of consciousness, toward thoughtless contemplation.

(And I learned that "'Gnossienne' refers to the 'Crane Dance' performed in the labyrinth of the palace of Knossos [Gnossos] in ancient Crete." ...Now, is that provocative?)

Maybe the best..........2002-12-25

This album offers both first time recordings and a high quality, warm sound that may help you to feel Satie's free-from-tricks music. As it says in the booklet, you don't need to be a virtuoso to play Satie but you have to understand the certian state of mind. The Magic of Satie is probably the best choice for both old and new Satie listeners.

A new standard for Satie.......2002-12-25

Like many others, I discovered the music of Satie upon hearing the recordings of Aldo Ciccolini. As mentioned by Distler above, Thibaudet studied with Ciccolini although they apparently never worked on Satie's music together. No matter. This is a wonderfully recorded and played selection of Satie's music. Satie's music is unique- he is one of those musicians who seemed determined to not sound like anybody else. At least, that I know of. In spite of that, he is one of the most accessible of modern composers because of his melodicism.
I have listened to many performers play some of these pieces and Thibaudet is the best I have heard since Ciccolini. The only thing that keeps me from recommending this CD without reservation is that Thibaudet plans to release a box set in the near future that will contain all of Satie's piano music. If you are an obsessed completist like myself that is something to really look forward to.

Average customer rating:

THE 90'S HAD GOOD STUFF
Sublimalicious
FOUR-CALENDAR CAFE
Nothing special... A dissappointment
A different Album from The Cocteau Twins

Four-Calendar Cafe
Cocteau Twins
Manufacturer: Capitol
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Milk & Kisses
Heaven or Las Vegas
Victorialand
The Pink Opaque
Treasure

ASIN: B000002V21
Release Date: 1993-11-02

Tracks:

Know Who You Are At Every Age
Evangeline
Bluebeard
Theft, And Wandering Around Lost
Oil Of Angels
Squeeze-Wax
My Truth
Essence
Summerhead
Pur

Album Description

The Cocteau Twins' first release following their exodus from the 4AD stable, Four-Calendar Cafe is also, tellingly, their most earthbound effort; as with Heaven or Las Vegas, the emphasis here is on substance as much as style - 'Evangeline', 'Bluebeard' and 'Know Who You Are at Every Age' continue the trio's advance into more accessible melodic and lyrical ground without sacrificing even an ounce of their trademark ethereality. Out-of-print domestically. Universal.

Customer Reviews:

THE 90'S HAD GOOD STUFF.......2007-07-29

THIS WAS A GOOD CHOICE ON MY PART. I HAD HEARD THIS CD YEARS AGO AND IT STAYED IN MY MIND FOR SEVERAL YEARS SO, I DECIDED TO PROCEED. HAVING THROUGHLY ENJOYED LEAVING LAS VEGAS, THIS CD WILL ENSURE THAT MY COCTEAU TWINS COLLECTION WILL GROW. ITS GOOD OLE ENGLISH MELODIC DREAM POP. THIS MUSIC IS SOMETHING FAB 4 DISCIPLES WOULD ENJOY!

Sublimalicious.......2006-08-08

This is the greatest band ever!!! It stimulates all the senses!!! It is dreamlike.... It is the Cocteau Twins....Enough Said!!!!

FOUR-CALENDAR CAFE.......2006-02-19

I was scared to buy this record at first- because I had fallen in love with all of the 4AD records- But after repeat listens this has swiftly taken my favourite spot- The songwriting is really crisp and tight- It is deffinately their "poppiest" record- but underneath that sound are some of their darkest songs- The most startling effect is being able to completely discern liz's lyrics- which seem to border between confessional to the abstract "know yrself at every age" blew my mind- and has the effect of dragging yourself thru a muddy bog "theft and wandering around lost" sent a shiver up my spine "summerhead" has some of the best shimmering guitarwork from them yet- "squueze-wax" tugs at yr nerves and "blubeard" will make you remember every crap lover you've ever had- "Pur" joins all of the other great album closers from this incredible band- easily the most intoxicating/addicting band Ive ever had the pleasure of hearing- this is probably not the best place to start- but a great record to land on....

Nothing special... A dissappointment.......2005-08-10

I'm really surprised to see so many positive reviews about this CD. From my point of view, "Four-calendar café" is a mustn't have for any CT fans who have really enjoyed (if they have) the magic of this band from the eighties as it ruins in some way the feeling you may have for them. The lyrics are pedestrian and cheesy and the album itself (excepting, perhaps, "Summerhead") doesn't add ABSOLUTELY NOTHING to the brilliance of previous records, so, why listen to it?. Although the album is well-crafted and produced, its conventionality and lack of "mystique" that surrounds it makes it the Twins' poorest and most boring effort since "Garlands". This forgettable album sounds more like an Annie Lennox's project after having given birth or something. This wouldn't be inconvenient if we were talking about some average radioplay band but, unfortunately, the ones we are talking about WERE, for bad or worse, the masters and creators of `dream pop' in the 80's, and I had expected something else other than this. What a waste of talent.

If you agree with my opinion about the band so far, my piece of advice would be to avoid this album and stick to their older material as your life would probably be the same without this mediocre work. "Four Calendar Café" pales before classics such as "Head Over Heels" (even Elizabeth Fraser has a penchant for this one) or "Victorialand". The people who affirm that this is Cocteau Twins' best album without blushing must be newcomers to the band or musn't have listened to the group's previous material, it's the only explanation I find for the rave reviews. I'm sorry but I think that music should be something more than corny sentimentality, dry atmospheres and self-indulgency. I can't stop thinking that this was a great backward step for the band. Their main contributions to popular music were already done, so there was no need to keep going if they had run out of ideas (and "Milk & Kisses" is even worst).

Sugary...

A different Album from The Cocteau Twins.......2005-02-23

Some songs on this album reminded me of songs from "Treasure" (Pandora, Lorelei). This Album is better than I expected it to be, based on reading reviews. The songs are mellow and happy and relaxing. Very easy to listen to. It's not like anything else that they had released at the time, and some have considered it to be a transition album. The sound is different than from earlier releases, and it's definately happier sounding than albums like "Treasure" or "Head over Heels". This album is great to listen to on those really nice spring days, spending it outside. I could probably recommend this album for new fans because it's so easy to listen to, and it's a good place to start. Other fans might recommend "Blue Bell Knoll" or "Heaven or Las Vegas",for first timers, but to appreciate those albums, I think that it's a good idea to have some background and some personal history with the band before getting into those albums. Overall, Cocteau Twins fans might not rank this one as their favorite, but this album is in no way sub par to their other releases, definately worth a look. I liked it very much, even if it's different from my personal favorites by them.

Average customer rating:

Simply Breath-Taking
full of energy worth savouring
Versatile virtuoso outshines musically uneven material
A Towering Musical Achievement
Beautiful Harp Album

Crossing the Stone

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Harpist
Because I Love You So
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Free

ASIN: B0000AM6IX
Release Date: 2003-08-12

Tracks:

Mountain Dance
Harpers Bizarre
James
Crossing The Stone (Tros Y Garreg)
Prelude From Partita No. 3
Third Movement From Electric Counterpoint
Eternal Dream
The Arrival Of The Queen Of Sheba From Solomon
Cafe Vamp Latino
Spain
Buenos Aires Hora Cero
Clair De Lune
Prelude In C/Ave Maria
Thingamujig
Suo Gan
Palladio (1st Movement)

Customer Reviews:

Simply Breath-Taking.......2007-03-05

Being a harpist myself, I can truly admire Catrin Finch's talent, style and choice of music selections for her first album.

Some songs are truly a revelation for the harp as an instrument using New Age style accompaniment, while there are still pieces with a classical vibe.

Well Done!

full of energy worth savouring.......2004-12-13

The artist is able to deconstruct the traditional image of harp as an instument. The texture and the hue of the music is rich and full of lustre. very creative and versatile.

Versatile virtuoso outshines musically uneven material.......2004-02-01

There's a reason Charles, Prince of Wales, revived a long-dormant (since 1871) tradition and presented Catrin Finch a Royal Appointment as his harpist. At age 23 she is a remarkable talent, with pristine technique and a fluency in the languages of both classical and contemporary music.

If only the material on her debut disc were equal to her talent.

While Finch is extraordinary, the music is a mixed bag of modern jazz/pop tunes, re-tooled classical favorites, and several hit-and-miss arrangements by Finch's musical partner, composer Karl Jenkins.

It's all starts and stops, ups and downs. In the jazz/pop genre, Dave Grusin's infectious "Mountain Dance" and the relaxed groove of Pat Metheny/Lyle Mays' "James" are perfectly suited for harp, while Chick Corea's "Spain" just never catches fire. Among the contemporary, experimental compositions, Jenkins' minimalist but tuneful "Harpers Bizarre" is far more interesting than Steve Reich's "Third Movement from Electric Counterpoint" - a tedious ostinato that never develops into anything. In a more traditional vein, "Crossing the Stone," taken from Jenkins' double harp concerto, is a rich, lovely setting of a Welsh folk tune, but two other selections from the concerto - "Eternal Dream" and "Caf? Vamp Latino" - don't relate musically at all. And while Finch, unaccompanied, is flawless on Bach's "Prelude from Partita No. 3," her performance of Handel's "Arrival of the Queen of Sheba" is marred by the decision to include some noisy Middle Eastern percussion, as is Debussy's "Clair de lune" by an intrusive, soporific voice-over.

On the upside again, Bach/Gounod's "Ave Maria" and the Welsh lullaby "Suo Gan" team Finch nicely with solo voices (though countertenor Terrance Barber's vibrato is perhaps an acquired taste), and Jenkins' "Thingamujig" is a fun, lively jig.

Concluding the album, the first movement of Jenkins' "Palladio" (featured for years in TV commercials for DeBeers diamonds) in a dull dance remix has none of the energy of the original version for string quartet and is a totally gratuitous inclusion.

From Finch's liner-note comment that "I've never really been stuffy about classical music ... I'm open to everything, really," it's apparent that some tracks are an attempt to make a "classical" instrument more accessible to listeners of contemporary music. Again, Finch is terrific, but listeners would be better served by a recording of the harpist that displays her virtuosity in a single genre - whether classical, contemporary or experimental - instead of this hodgepodge.

Give the performer five stars, the material two, and look forward to hearing this talented young artist for many years to come.

A Towering Musical Achievement.......2003-10-29

While biographies disguised as reviews are tiresome, some background is in order, in this case. At the age of 23, Catrin Finch has been playing the harp for 18 years. She was appearing on British television and with major orchestras by the time she was 10, and was appointed the Royal Harpist to HRH The Prince of Wales (a.k.a. Prince Charles) at the age of 20. Bottom line: This lady has more than enough credentials to be regarded as a major musical talent.

But does having a long list of credentials translate to making a great album? In this case, you bet it does. On "Crossing The Stone," Catrin Finch combines piles of technical expertise with surprising and even stunning musical choices. Sure, she covers classical music (such as Bach's 'Prelude from Partita #3' and Handel's 'The Arrival of The Queen of Sheba') brilliantly, but you'd expect that from an alumnus of The Royal College of Music. But would you expect to hear a piece by jazz pianist Dave Grusin done on the harp? How about music by guitarist Pat Metheny, or a Chick Corea composition?

Catrin Finch is an incredible talent, and she has created a beautiful, eclectic album that demands (and will receive) repeated listening. Unfortunately, it's also an album that you probably won't find in your local music store. This album has not received a lot of publicity, and I have yet to walk into a CD store and find it sitting on the shelf. Save yourself a lot of tedious shopping: buy it here and now.

Beautiful Harp Album.......2003-08-26

I first heard Catrin Finch on a free sample CD I received and when I listened to it, I couldn't believe that the instrument that she was playing was the harp! It was so vibrant and full of life. It felt like I had opened the windows and let the sun shine in. The harp is the world's oldest - and most difficult instrument, but in Ms. Finch's power it is sounds both contemporary effortlessly played. It is a wonderful buy for any appreciate of music, and the most electric harp album ever produced.

Average customer rating:

complete but lacking
good for completists, but...
Yes, its worth five discs

Satie: The Complete Solo Piano Music

Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Jean-Yves Thibaudet - Debussy · images, études ~ complete works for piano, vol. 2
Satie: L'Oeuvre Pour Piano
Jean-Yves Thibaudet ~ Debussy - complete piano works, vol. 1
Maurice Ravel: L'Oeuvre Pour Piano Seul
The Magic of Satie

ASIN: B00008RWRB
Release Date: 2003-06-10

Customer Reviews:

complete but lacking.......2005-06-14

While I am a fan of Thibaudet in general, he just seems lost here. Satie is deceptively difficult to judge as a performer, the music is at times mercurial or static, profound or frivolous, or all of the above. Yet one hardly needs to underline the oddness, it's perfectly revealed if you play it straight.
While some misread notes suggest he may not really know these pieces, Thibaudet manages to project something less than a competent sight reading. In such an endeavor he would certainly get the right feel occasionally by accident. Instead, he regularly puts the wrong foot forward, with odd accents and effects getting in the way, perhaps trying too hard to add spin to music whose mysteries refuse to unfold under such duress.
I would recommend collecting a number of different performers: Reinbert DeLeeuw, Pascal Roge, Anne Queffelec, JoAnna MacGregor and Michel Legrand have all made worthy contributions to the recent discography and their combined recordings would make a pretty-near complete survey.

good for completists, but..........2004-05-18

I jumped at the chance to buy this set; a new digital recording of Satie's complete solo piano music. I had admired Jean-Yves Thibaudet in the past and had seen him perform Messiaen's "Turangalila Symphony"; a great performance. However, after listening to this set for three straight months, I'm rather frustrated with it, mostly on aesthetic grounds, since I can't deny Thibaudet's talents; I just disagree with some of his interpretations.

To start, most of the shorter, "lite" pieces are performed very well on disc 4. Even the most popular, (Gymnopedies, Gnossiennes) are excellent. I am also thankful I now have performances of "Uspud" and many of Satie's conservatory assignments, played expertly and with good humor. For these, the set is worth having.

But now, the bad news. As I have complained about in the past with Thibaudet's Ravel discs, I'm frankly rather put-off by his inexplicable, pointless staccato in many of the pieces. "Petite Overture a la Danser" is one of my favorite Satie miniatures, and here Thibaudet botches it by playing it way too fast with no pedal. It sounds like a joke, and I think he totally misses the point of the piece. In the "Nazareen" preludes, he adds his own extreme dynamics which are not indicated in the original scores, and the effect seems like a cheap attempt to add "spice" to what are supposed to be meditative sound constructions, based on poetry forms rather than classical forms.

"Prelude to the Heroic Gate of Heaven" is taken far too slow, and Thibaudet completely cuts out the "Curtain" coda in the original Salabert edition for no apparent reason; he seems determined to give the piece a more "proper" ending, and for this listener, it's a terrible, narcissistic, and disrespectful miscalculation.

I will keep this set since it is a complete document, flawed though it may be. But I still must insist that the best living interpreter of Satie's piano music is the ever-underrated Reinbert DeLeeuw, who is completely in-tune with Satie's sly magic. His tempos may be slow, his dynamics few, but that's the whole point; this is highly personal music, and DeLeeuw has an aesthetic I can personally agree with. For an audible explanation of what I'm talking about, compare the performances of "Petite Overture a la Danser" by DeLeeuw and Thibaudet, and you'll see what I mean.

Yes, its worth five discs.......2003-12-17

Each disc averages about 75 minutes of music. Over six hours of Satie? Definitely yes. If you have an affinity for Satie's classic pieces you should not pass up this set. There are so many standout pieces in so many wonderful styles you can only leave this set with wonder. And Thibaudet seems made for this music. The best interpreter of Satie that I've heard. His technique is amazing with such a range of subtle fingering tempo and dynamics. Its as though I've heard some of these for the first time with new shocks of emotion I hadn't experienced before. Not to be missed.

Average customer rating:

Crossing the Stone

Manufacturer: Sbme Import
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B00009L81Y
Release Date: 2004-02-23

Tracks:

Mountain Dance
Harpers Bizarre
James
Crossing The Stone (Tros Y Garreg)
Prelude From Partita No.3
Third Movement From Electric Counterpoint
Eternal Dream
The Arrival Of The Queen Of Sheba From Solomon
Cafe Vamp Latino
Spain
Buenos Aires Hora Cero
Clair De Lune
Prelude In C/Ave Maria
Thingamujig
Suo Gan
Palladio (1st Movement)

Album Description

At only 23 years old Catrin Finch is already being called the finest harpist in the world. Catrin is Harpist to HRH Prince Charles, The Prince of Wales (Catrin herself is a native of the Principality). Crossing the Stone is Catrin's first album for a major label, & is produced & arranged by fellow Welshman Karl Jenkins. The music on Crossing the Stone comes from the worlds of jazz, classical & world music, making it much more than 'just another harp recital'. 16 tracks. Sony Classical. 2003.

Average customer rating:

The Twins best selling album
One of my Fav's
most accessable album

Four-Calendar Cafe
Cocteau Twins
Manufacturer: Umvd Import
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Milk & Kisses
BBC Sessions
Milk And Kisses
Just for a Day
Continental

ASIN: B000FVQPUI
Release Date: 2006-08-08

Tracks:

Know Who You Are at Every Age
Evangeline
Bluebeard
Theft, And Wandering Around Lost
Oil of Angels
Squeeze-Wax
My Truth
Essence
Summerhead
Pur

Album Description

Limited Edition 2006 digitally remastered digipack reissue of their 1993 album, the first album they recorded after leaving the comfortable confines of the 4AD label. Features 'Evangline', 'Bluebeard' and 'Know Who You Are At Every Age'. Mercury.

Customer Reviews:

The Twins best selling album.......2007-05-25

+1/2 Stars. This CD sounds amazing after all these years. Its obvious that when it was first recorded it was done in such a way that the remastering sounds like a CD recorded today--the bass is rich and full. The booklet inside this lovingly presented digipak mentions that the songs were born out of the dissolution of Elizabeth Frasers relationship with Robin Guthrie. Knowing that gives the music a framework that only enriches the whole. Sure there is Heaven or Las Vegas, Treasure, and Blue Bell Knoll, but this latter CT album (along with Milk and Kisses) makes the case for being two of their most enjoyable and listenable releases. Note:Originally the CD was emerald blue, the reissue contains a white CD.

One of my Fav's.......2007-01-19

Been listening to this album for years, so much so, I've worn out 3 discs (scratches, heat, etc). It's timeless music to me, good for mellowing, good for falling asleep to, relaxing, reflecting...

Price is a bit steep. Since it's "out of print" and now re-released as "digitally re-mastered", well, I guess the effort makes it command a higher price point, but the reality is, I can't hear any difference between this edition and the original release...

Nevertheless, I'd have paid 50 bucks to replace my last copy. This copy I've imported to I-tunes, so I've burned a CD of it as my daily player, and put my "digitally re-mastered"purchase in my safe deposit box! HAHA!

most accessable album.......2006-10-11

Ok, i'am so sick and tired of everyone saying that "treasure" is the best cocteau album. Every single cocteau album is appropriate for its time, and four calender is no exception! Each song is a floating masterpiece of pop. Robin guthries guitar work is as mesmerizing as ever, as is elizabeth frasers haunting voice. They are definatly going for a "lighter' sound. Which makes it no less as perfect as their previous work. I do recommend buying all of the new re-mastered albums. They are so clear and beautiful.

Les Miserables - The Complete Symphonic Recording

Average customer rating:

Great, definitely go with this and TAC
Awesome
Bought it used - thank God!
magnificent!
Mixed Feelings

Les Miserables - The Complete Symphonic Recording
Claude-Michel Schonberg
Manufacturer: Relativity
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000003BVK
Release Date: 1990-05-22

Tracks:

Prologue
Valjean's Soliloquy (What Have I Done?)
At The End Of The Day
I Dreamed A Dream
Lovely Ladies
Fantine's Arrest
The Runaway Cart
Who Am I?-The Trial
Fantine's Death
The Confrontation
Castle On A Cloud
Master Of The House

Tracks:

The Bargain-The Waltz Of Treachery
Look Down
The Robbery-Javert's Intervention (Another Brawl)
Stars
Eponine's Errand
The ABC Cafe-Red And Black
Do You Hear The People Sing?
Rue Plumet-In My LIfe
A Heart Full Of Love
The Attack On Rue Plumet
One Day More!
At The Barricade (Upon These Stones)
On My Own
Building The Barricade
Javert's Arrival
Little People
A Little Fall Of Rain
Night Of Anguish
First Attack

Tracks:

Drink With Me
Bring Him Home
Dawn Of Anguish
The Second Attack (Death Of Gavroche)
The Final Battle
The Sewers-Dog Eats Dog
Javert's Suicide
Turning
Empty Chairs At Empty Tables
Every Day (Marius And Cosette)
Valjean's Confession
The Wedding Chorale- Beggars At The Feast
Epilogue (Finale)
Bonus Track

Customer Reviews:

Great, definitely go with this and TAC.......2005-08-31

Right now, there are four official English-language versions of Les Miserables: the Original London Cast Recording, the Original Broadway Cast Recording, the Complete Symphonic Recording, and the 10th Anniversary Concert Recording. Les Mis' addicts are best served by purchasing all recordings, as they showcase different stages (as in the OLC and the OBC) of the development of this mega-musical, as well as the interesting variations in presentation and performances by the different casts and orchestras.

If you're the average musical-theater listener who can't afford to buy all available English-language recordings, however, my advice would be to get the CSR (due to the fact that it's "complete") and the TAC recording (due to the fact that performer- and performance-wise, it's leaps and bounds better than all of the other recordings). You deserve no less.

Awesome.......2005-07-03

I can't believe all the negative comments about Gary Morris. He is so much better in the role than Colm Wilkinson. I've seen Gary perform the part three times and there is NO better Jean ValJean (seen the play 14 times). It's an international cast and some of the accents do take time getting used to. But the power of the music supercedes it all. Listen with your heart people. It's so incredible.

Bought it used - thank God!.......2005-06-17

"Les Miserables" is a marvelous musical; a stunningly faithful interpretation of Victor Hugo's masterpiece, with an inspiring storyline and unforgettable characters. There are 2 reasons for buying a Les Mis CD - (1) you've seen a performance and want ONE CD to remind you of it or (2) you've become a les Mis junkie (like me) and want multiple versions so you too can hold forth on the rival merits of Andy Warlow vs Michael Maguire, Patty LuPone vs Ruthie Henshaw, Frances Ruffelle vs Kaho Shimada vs Lea Solonga. If you are in the first category, you really want the Tenth Anniversary Concert. The TAC has the complete storyline (albeit slightly abridged), it was recorded live (so there's an unique intensity and chemistry between performers), and from top to bottom it has by far the best cast.

However, if you're a serious Les Mis fan, you should buy this CD (in addition), simply because it does have the complete score. (The trouble with THAT is that it includes practically the only misstep in the whole script - if Jean Valjean has his number branded on his chest, then how is it credible that someone else will be convicted in his place?) I bought it for that reason and to hear other interpretations of the roles (in particular Andy Warlow's). I have all 4 versions, and they have all have their pluses and minuses, but frankly, I'm glad I didn't pay full price for this one. This version has a rather weak cast in general, but that does add to the fun arguing about it. On the plus side, it has Philip Quast ( THE BEST Javert, but he's even better on the TAC), Michael Ball (THE BEST Marius, also on the OLC and TAC versions), and Andy Warlow (a stirring Enjorlas for sure, but not THAT much better than Michael Maguire on the OBC and TAC). The scenes at the barricade are the best part of the CD. Kaho Shimada is an uneven Eponine, OK sometimes, less so at others. Debbie Byrne (Fantine) is OK, but I don't find her as moving as Patty LuPone (OLC) or Ruthie Henshaw (TAC). Tracy Shayne (Cosette) is irratating, not nearly as sweet as Judy Kuhn (OLB and TAC) or even Rebecca Caine (OLC). I find Barry James and especially Gay Soper (M. and Mme. Thenardier) grating as well.

I really miss Colm Wilkinson (OLC, OBC and TAC). OK, he has a unique singing style, but such heart. Not always perfect, but so powerful and emotional. All his solos and "Confrontation" just stop me dead in my tracks. The sweetness and purity of his "Bring Him Home" and "Epilogue" move me to tears. But really, there must be someone else who can do at least an adequate job or the show wouldn't have run so long in so many venues. I am willing to listen to another interpretation, but not this one. This is the central role in the play, it really can't survive without a good performance here. Gary Morris is horrible as Jean Valjean, cringe-provoking at times, merely weak at others. He's totally overmatched by Quast in "Confrontation" and by everyone in "One Day More" and "Epilogue". I haven't tried the recommendation of one reviewer of listening while squinting and shaking my head hard, but I don't see how that will help. Morris's "What have I done?", "Bring Him Home" and "Valjean's Confession" make me cover my ears or send me running for the fast forward button, although "Who am I?" isn't so bad. (I just tried the head shaking trick, it didn't help.)

magnificent!.......2005-06-15

Ok, I admit it. I have long been a fan of musicals, but I was only exposed to Les Mis a few months ago. My roommate loaned me this recording, and I fell in love. I played nothing but this soundtrack for the next several weeks.

As this is the only recording I've heard fully, I cannot give any comparisons between the performers here and those on other versions, but I do wish to give my general impression of the cast.

*Gary Morris (Valjean) - he has a strong, clear voice with which it is hard to find fault. He sings with emotion and passion, and I cannot imagine ever tiring of hearing him as Jean Valjean. If I had to give a complaint, it would be that I could imagine a voice with a little more distinct character...something a little riskier for the part of someone so complex.

*Philip Quast (Javert) - wow, I love deep voices, and his is so rich! I love when he hits the low note near the beginning of "Confrontation" ...I've seriously replayed that part over and over again just because it sends shivers through me...haha, I think you get the idea. This guy is good.

*Debbie Byrne (Fantine) - her voice took some getting used to because at first it seemed to me a little uncontrolled, almost like she could capture the fullness of the sound but not quite hit the notes. However, the more I listen to her, the more I enjoy her. Her voice has a wonderful texture, something you totally miss when listening to the super-clear, trilling sopranos that seem to be found all over most other musicals.

*Kaho Shimada (Eponine) - her voice took a little getting used to as well. I was a little confused until I realized she was Japanese, for though I wouldn't say you hear an accent, her voice does have a very different quality to it. Still, I enjoyed her performance very much. Her voice is trembling with emotion the entire time, almost like she can hardly control it...it is quite moving.

*Tracy Shayne (Cosette) - wow. I'm sorry, is Cosette supposed to be this shrill? Turn it off! While I'm impressed at some of the notes she hits, I don't think it's supposed to make you want to cover your ears.

*Michael Ball (Marius) -Ball makes Marius, a rather annoying character if you ask me, into someone actually likable, if not lovable. He's passionate and romantic, but not vapid. Probably my favorite vocal performance.

*Gay Soper and Barry James (the Thernardiers) - their voices are rather grating, but that's the point, right? Very entertaining performances...particularly in "Master of the House" (which, it's true, somehow manages to be stuck in your head all day).

*Anthony Warlow (Enjorolas) - very appropriate voice...manly and vibrant. If he doesn't make you want to go out and fight, then there's no help for you!

Overall, the performances were wonderful. I highly recommend this CD. A great recording of a great musical!

Mixed Feelings.......2005-04-20

I bought this recently, and it was an object lesson in why I ought to research an item before purchasing it.

For me, it's truly a toss-up as to whether this is a recording worth purchasing. The main benefit-a far from insignificant one-is that it is a complete recording full of much more materiel than can be found on the London or Broadway cast recordings. Basically, I was far from satisfied. The liner notes are error ridden, and the casting was not as good as possible. Gary Morris struck me as too young for the part, and Gay Soper (Mme. Thenardier) has a voice akin to the sound of fingernails on a chalkboard. But, in the absence of a complete Broadway recording, this still may be the best version available to buy. Be sure, however, to supplement it with another version. (The Tenth Anniversary recording might be the best.)

Average customer rating:

A masterpiece

On Broadway

Manufacturer: Telarc
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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From the Heart

ASIN: B00000ILWX
Release Date: 1999-04-27

Tracks:

On Broadway From Smokey Joe's Cafe
Suite From Miss Saigon: The Heat Is On In Saigon - Why God, Why? - The Last Night Of The World - Bui Doi - This Is The Hour
He Lives In You From The Lion King
Lily's Eyes From The Secret Garden
You're Nothing Without Me From City Of Angels
Children Will Listen From Into The Woods
Gimme Love From Kiss Of The Spider Woman
Suite From Les Miserables: At The End Of The Day - I Dreamed A Dream - Master Of The House - Bring Him Home - Do You Hear The People Sing?
Seasons of Love From Rent
Ragtime From Ragtime
This Is The Moment From Jekyll And Hyde
Into The Fire From The Scarlet Pimpernel
The Grand Waltz From Grand Hotel
Cross The Line From Big
Hooker's Ball From The Life
Give A Man Enough Rope From Will Rogers' Follies
The Latest Rag From Titanic
Godspeed From Titanic

Customer Reviews:

A masterpiece.......2004-02-03

The melody that gives the title to this cd, "On Broadway" is a masterpiece of arrangement: every instrument is on the very right key and it truly makes you live that very special feeling that you only get every once in a while with very special music. Listen to it, you will buy it instantly.

Music Review:

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