Something Beautiful

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
A Platinum-selling act in their Canadian homeland, Great Big Sea has mined that country's proud Scots/Irish Celtic heritage in a decidedly modern context. Their arrangements are honeycombed with the accordions, bouzoukis, pipes, whistles and fiddles typical of traditional music and nicely handled they are, too. But these come across as afterthoughts amid a powerhouse hit machine featuring robust lead vocals, a booming drum kit, and close-harmony hooks obviously calibrated to induce stadium sing-alongs. The group is a throwback to seventies folk-rockers in that they veer between trad/arr material ("John Barbour") and original tunes ("Helmenthead," which catalogues the conquests of a kiss-and-tell hockey player). In contemporary terms, they occasionally recall singer-songwriter Paul Brady's polished lyrics or the crowd-pleasing barroom roughhousing of Black 47. But ultimately, this is a mainstream band, high-energy and very good at what they do; the question is how they'll play outside their comfort zone. --Christina Roden

Product Description
The multi-Platinum band Great Big Sea has become one of Canada's most popular exports, and with the help of producer Michael Phillip (Barenaked Ladies), they're about to become even more popular with the release of Something Beautiful, their new studio album. From brisk Celtic pop sing-alongs like "Shines Right Through" and "When I Am King" to introspective, brooding laments like "Summer" and "Lucky Me," Something Beautiful is the most accessible Great Big Sea album yet. "Great Big Sea has been more successful than any other contemporary North American band in bringing Anglo-Celtic folk sounds into rock clubs." - Dirty Linen

Something Beautiful,Great Big Sea,Zoe Records,Adult Alternative Pop/Rock,Celtic,Celtic Rock,Pop,Rock

Something Beautiful

Tracks:

Shines Right Through
When I am King
Beat the Drum
Helmethead
Summer
Sally Ann
Somedays
Let it Go
John Barbour
Lucky Me
Love
Chafe's Celidh

Amazon.com

A Platinum-selling act in their Canadian homeland, Great Big Sea has mined that country's proud Scots/Irish Celtic heritage in a decidedly modern context. Their arrangements are honeycombed with the accordions, bouzoukis, pipes, whistles and fiddles typical of traditional music and nicely handled they are, too. But these come across as afterthoughts amid a powerhouse hit machine featuring robust lead vocals, a booming drum kit, and close-harmony hooks obviously calibrated to induce stadium sing-alongs. The group is a throwback to seventies folk-rockers in that they veer between trad/arr material ("John Barbour") and original tunes ("Helmenthead," which catalogues the conquests of a kiss-and-tell hockey player). In contemporary terms, they occasionally recall singer-songwriter Paul Brady's polished lyrics or the crowd-pleasing barroom roughhousing of Black 47. But ultimately, this is a mainstream band, high-energy and very good at what they do; the question is how they'll play outside their comfort zone. --Christina Roden

Album Description

The multi-Platinum band Great Big Sea has become one of Canada's most popular exports, and with the help of producer Michael Phillip (Barenaked Ladies), they're about to become even more popular with the release of Something Beautiful, their new studio album. From brisk Celtic pop sing-alongs like "Shines Right Through" and "When I Am King" to introspective, brooding laments like "Summer" and "Lucky Me," Something Beautiful is the most accessible Great Big Sea album yet. "Great Big Sea has been more successful than any other contemporary North American band in bringing Anglo-Celtic folk sounds into rock clubs." - Dirty Linen

Customer Reviews:

Their name fits.......2007-07-25

Personally, I call them the "Goofy Newfies", because of their quirky humor and rocked out take on the trads. They're definitely back on their game with this CD. Could have stood a few more traditionals here, but "Something Beautiful" is a very upbeat and listenable CD.

Probably my favorites are "Helmethead" for its wry humor and "Beat the Drum" because it's a wonderful anthem of youth. And isn't "Love" grand? It's definitely more real than most of the syrupy stuff you hear.

A Great Big Treat for fans of melodic folk-rock.......2006-05-06

While some GBS fans may take issue with the lack of traditional Newfoundland music on this disc (compared with other GBS releases), "Something Beautiful" stands on its own merits as a superbly crafted, melodic folk-rock album with not a single clunker on it. I say give the lads their due for showing the versatility of their songwriting and vocal skills on this gem of a release. Outstanding and highly recommended whether you're a traditionalist fan or not. With GBS, no matter what they record, everything shines.

Beautiful but different.......2005-10-11

Having nearly worn out "Rant and Roar", I was really looking forward to this one. It didn't impress me at first blush but has slowly worked it's way into my short list of favorites. If you want Rant and Roar, play it. When you are ready to see what else these guys do well, this one is a great place to start. The title track is a well constructed piece of optimism that you will hear in your head for days, if you can get the rest of the songs to quiet down that long. This is a great album and I wish it had gotten some commercial airplay.

Great writing, vocals, arrangements.......2005-10-07

"Something Beautiful" proves one important point...the guys from GBS are amazing writers of good songs. While they stay true to their roots with a few traditional-type songs, this CD's strength is in its rock/pop songs. Their unending optimism in songs like "When I am King" and, touchingly, in "Something Beautiful" as well as the wonderful silliness of "Helmethead" (which should be required playing at any hockey game played...anywhere) make up the great mix that is this CD. "Sally Ann" just seems like a sweet, silly love song until you hear that it was written about Alan Doyle's one-year-old niece whose attention he was desperate to capture one day. Then it really makes sense. "Let it Go" is a lovely song that basically tells people who have everything to live for and be happy about, to stop whining and get on with life, and the great "Lucky Me" is a man exulting in the fact that he is lucky enough to do what he loves. Wonderful.

Buy this CD...buy all of GBS' music. They are not as well known in the US as they deserve to be and if you ever have a chance to see one of their live shows...GO!

Still love them............2005-01-27

Although this is my least favorite of their cd's to date, I absolutly still love Great Big Sea! The energy in their live performances exceeds any expectations. You cannot go to one of their concerts and have a bad time.
Let it Go and Sally Ann are my personal favorites. None of the songs are bad, it just seems a bit more mainstream than their others.
Don't fret though, they will have a traditional cd out soon enough!

Bryn Terfel - Something Wonderful (Bryn Terfel sings Rodgers & Hammerstein)

Average customer rating:

I have just been introduced.
Great Music + Terrific Lyrics +Decent Singing = Very Nice CD
A new meaning of throat singing.
Superb matchmaking in Terfel's R&H recital
Broadway or Opera... This CD is indeed ýSomething Wonderfulý

Bryn Terfel - Something Wonderful (Bryn Terfel sings Rodgers & Hammerstein)
Bryn Terfel , English Northern Philharmonia , Paul Daniel , Opera North Chorus , Richard Rodgers , and Oscar Hammerstein II
Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000001GRP
Release Date: 1996-09-10

Tracks:

OKLAHOMA: Oh, What A Beautiful Mornin'
State Fair: It Might As Well Be Spring
South Pacific: Some Enchanted Evening
OKLAHOMA: The Surrey With The Fringe On Top
South Pacific: Bali Ha'i
Carousel: June Is Bustin' Out All Over
The King And I: Something Wonderful
Allegro: So Far
Allegro: A Fellow Needs A Girl
The King And I: I Have Dreamed
Allegro: What A Lovely Day For A Wedding
Me And Juliet: No Other Love
The Sound Of Music: Edelweiss
Carousel: If I Loved You
South Pacific: There Is Nothin' Like A Dame
South Pacific: Younger Than Springtime
Allegro: Come Home
South Pacific: This Nearly Was Mine
Carousel: Soliloquy
Carousel: You'll Never Walk Alone

Amazon.com

In the opening song of "Something Wonderful," Welsh bass-baritone Bryn Terfel sings, "All the sounds of the Earth are like music." They most definitely are when Terfel surrounds them with his resonant baritone. Every phrase of Rodgers and Hammerstein's music is imbued with uncommon sensitivity, impeccable phrasing, and dazzling beauty. Terfel's rich and meaty voice shares a plate with delicate pianissimos, unabashed sentimentality, and swaggering forthrightness. He successfully tackles songs originally written for women. In "It Might as Well Be Spring," he transforms dippy into dapper. And he turns "Bali Hai" into a foreboding, demanding, and seductive call; the listener must helplessly succumb to the world of his sensitive manliness. His interpretations of the old standards--"If I Loved You," "Soliloquy," "This Nearly Was Mine," "Some Enchanted Evening"--are stellar. Despite the temporary lulls caused by the second-class songs from "Allegro," Terfel does a first-class job of bringing them to life. Undoubtedly one of the best crossover records of all time. --Barbara Eisner Bayer

Amazon.com

Customer Reviews:

I have just been introduced........2007-01-22

I came across the CD by sheer accident and am I glad I did. Wonderful music. Thanks for the music Bryn.

Great Music + Terrific Lyrics +Decent Singing = Very Nice CD.......2005-01-27

While not an expert on technical singing I really, really like this CD. I think Terfel's voice is pretty decent & he sings both male/female lead R & H songs for a total of twenty cuts. One cut I really enjoyed , but had never heard before was the song "So Far"
from R & H's "Allegro" with those Richard Roger's hooks & terrific Oscar Hammerstein lyrics. Felt that the orchestra on this session made a good move using the original orchestrations for a classic R & H feel. I concur with the reviewer regarding the miking of Terfel's voice in this session which seems too low forcing the listener to turn up the volumne.

A new meaning of throat singing........2004-06-11

I cannot believe that the critics of today can rave about such an inferior singer as Byrn Terfel. He sings so badly, I can't believe he has had the career he's had. I don't care how many roles he's sung, he hasn't any vocal technique at all. If anyone would care to hear great singing, buy the; "Thomas L. Thomas" Voice of Firestone video and listen to a great Welsh singer. This is a great artist and vocal technician. Try; "John Charles Thomas," "Lawrence Tibbett," or "Nelson Eddy." Bryn Terfel couldn't carry their music cases!

Superb matchmaking in Terfel's R&H recital.......2004-03-09

You might think that it is a very superflous mismatch for an opera singer to try his vocal cords on the Broadway songs of Rodgers & Hammerstein. However, in this R&H offering by Bryn Terfel, he proves that it is a perfect match between singer and repertoire for a classical crossover record of this pedigree. Terfel communicates the essence of each of the 20 songs to the listener, and allows them to sound fresh and new. And it helps that he has been a R&H fan for many years with the music already close to his heart. He is given superb backing from the well-conducted Opera North forces an warm, natural recording.

From the first phrase of Terfel's uplifting opening version of "Oh, what a beautiful morning" from Oklahoma!, we listeners intuitively know that this is not going to be your superflous run-of-the-mill classical crossover offering of R&H songs. Terfel uses his big voice to great effect in Billy Bigelow's two songs from Carousel, "If I loved you" and the pivotal "Soliloquy" that builds up to a devastating climax. When he does this for Emile's two big solos in South Pacific, "Some Enchanted Evening" and "This Nearly Was Mine," he also makes them sound fresh and intuitively conveys their essence. He also thrills us even when his voice is soft and tender, such as on Lietunant Cable's "Younger than Springtime" and especially on Captain von Trapp's "Edelweiss" from The Sound of Music.

Besides the obvious highlights in this R&H offering, Terfel unearths some new delights. He does this by trying his vocal cords on songs that were originally intended for women, most notably in Nettie's two big numbers in Carousel, "June is busting out all over" and "You'll never walk alone", which he pulls off convincingly in a straight-laced and serious manner without sounding cliched. (In the booklet, "You'll never walk alone" was stated as being sung by the Chorus, but then in the show, it is sung by Nettie.) He is also wistful on "It might as well be Spring" from State Fair, and philosophical on Lady Thiang's "Something Wondreful" from The King and I. He also evokes a dreamlike quality on Bloody Mary's "Bali Ha'i" in South Pacific. The other unusual thing that Terfel does is include some unknown songs and treat them ravishingly. Four of them are from Allegro, highlighted by a charming "So Far," a reflective "A Fellow needs a girl" and a powerful "Come Home", and he also sings "No Other Love" from Me and Juliet as ravishingly as "I Have Dreamed."

If I have any quibbles, there are only two minor ones. Terfel's R&H offering runs for 74 minutes, and still has six minutes of empty space on a CD. I'm sure that Terfel could have given thought to the Mother Abbess's "Climb Every Mountain" from The Sound of Music, which I consider a more universal and less-cliched song than "You'll never walk alone" from Carousel. It would have suited his full-throated, big-voiced characteristic very well. Also, this offering of R&H seems to be lopsided to emphasise more of the first part of R&H. Sixteen tracks cover R&H from Oklahoma to South Pacific, with four tracks that cover their second half from The King and I to The Sound of Music. As such I would have liked to hear him sing a more balanced repertoire of R&H songs with equal emphasis to both halves of their collaboration. Perhaps he might record a Volume 2 with songs from the latter part of their collaboration in the near future. But with 74 delightful minutes of Terfel's R&H offering, how could anybody complain about the quality of this recital, especially with a lavish booklet complete with copious notes by R&H expert Ethan Mordden and full lyrics.

Overall, though, I'm very sure that this R&H offering is both a highlight of Terfel's discography, and can ably recommended with his recording of Schubert songs to anybody who wants to get to know his work well. It can also be recommended to Rodgers & Hammerstein fans old and new.

By the way, I also recommend the Rodgers & Hammerstein Songbook for Orchestra, with another superlative Telarc offering by the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra and Erich Kunzel. This recital is just as outstanding as Terfel's R&H offering. And, there is a wealth of cast recordings that new R&H fans will want to snap up, so this Terfel disc will be an ideal stepping-stone for them.

Broadway or Opera... This CD is indeed ýSomething Wonderfulý.......2003-07-25

It becomes clearer with every disk Bryn releases... he turns whatever he touches into gold! This CD is indeed `Something Wonderful'. From the first listen I was in love with this disk and can't get enough.

To begin, Rodgers and Hammerstein couldn't be more appropriately sung. From a time before electric amplification the sweeping melodies of Richard Rodgers were intended to be sung as Bryn illustrates. As I say every time, his diction is impeccable, his musicianship is unsurpassed, and his enthusiasm is wonderful. As for Oscar Hammerstein, I'm sure he doesn't mind a little foreign accent... because every word is clear and understandable.

To compare the accent of Terfel to Pavarotti and Carreras is simply misguided. Although Pavarotti and Carreras are top-notch for what they do, neither pursues `Broadway' music seriously. Their ventures into the medium are limited to Gala concerts and the occasional snippet on a CD... not on stage depicting a role, but simply to sing a beautiful song. Mr. Terfel, on the other hand, researches the roles, coaches them, and is constantly pursued to perform them. His accent is one of slight vowel or consonant differences, which do not detract from the beautiful music. The music is well done and the story clear. Lets not nitpick diction or the French will have our hides for Les Miserables!

For the music, the recording quality is great. One reviewer mentioned poor sound quality and I do believe that person may have a bad disk or player... on my end the sound is full and robust; Bryn's voice dominates the sound. The orchestrations are full and lush. When dealing with modern houses and theatres the orchestra pits are usually quite small, and consequently the ensembles themselves. CDs like this one allow for fully orchestrated music to be heard, with a large symphony of musicians. The numbers that utilize chorus, which sings very well, are well balanced.

This disk is a great buy in my book. Bryn Terfel is a phenomenal performer and he sings this genre excellently. Check out his `If Ever I Would Leave You', `Under The Stars', `We'll Keep a Welcome', `Songs of My Welsh Home', and numerous classical recordings like `Opera Arias', `Meet Bryn Terfel', `The Vagabond', `Wagner', `Schumann Lieder', and an large collection of full opera recordings. Enjoy.

Something Beautiful
Average customer rating:
Something Beautiful
Bill Gaither
Manufacturer: Spring House / EMI
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Something Beautiful: The Stories Behind a Half-century of the Songs of Bill and Gloria Gaither (Faithwords)

Because He Lives

A Tribute to Bill and Gloria Gaither

Get Away, Jordan

Together Classic Gospel A Tribute to Anthony Burger

ASIN: B000PC6FPC
Release Date: 2007-05-22

Tracks:

Medley: The Family Of God/Loving God, Loving Each Other/The Longer I Serve Him
Medley: Something Beautiful/I Am Loved/We Have This Moment
Medley: I Believe Help Thou My Unbelief/It Won't Rain Always/Joy Comes In the Morning/When the Rains Come
Medley: I Just Feel Like Something Good Is About To Happen/I Will Serve Thee/He Touched Me
Medley: Since Jesus Passey By/Thanks To Calvary (I Don't Live Here Anymore)/Because He Lives
Medley: Feeling At Home In The Presence Of Jesus/Old Friends/More Of You/My Faith Still Holds
Medley: I Could Never Outlove The Lord/Gentle Shepherd/There's Something About That Name/Worthy the Lamb
Medley: God Loves To Talk To Little Boys When They're Fishing/Kids Under Construction/I'm Something Special/ I Am a Promise
Medley: Place Called Hope/Hear My Song, Lord/Forgiven Again
Medley: This Is the Time I Must Sing/I'm Gonna Sing/Hope/Then He Said, 'Sing!'

Tracks:

Medley: God Gave the Song/Center Of My Joy/Thanks For Sunshine
Medley: Let's Just Praise the Lord/Get All Excited/Fully Alive
Medley: I Lost It All To Find Everything/Hurt By Hurt/Then Came the Morning/Let Freedom Ring
Medley: I Believe In a Hill Called Mount Calvary/I Do Believe/Sinner Saved By Grace
Medley: I Have Seen the Children/I Heard It First On the Radio/Dream On/Oh, The Precious Blood Of Jesus
Medley: Peace Be Still/It's Beginning To Rain/The King Is Coming
Medley: Come Sunday/To Get This Close/My Father's Angels/Lord, Send Your Angels
Medley: Through/Thank God For the Promise Of Spring/Next Time We Meet
Medley: I'll Worship Only At the Feet Of Jesus/More Than Ever/ I Walked Today Where Jesus Walks/Welcome Back Home
Medley: Even So, Lord Jesus, Come/This Could Be the Dawning Of That Day/I'm Almost Home/Resurrection

Album Description

All new medleys from a half-century of songs from Bill & Gloria Gaither. Contains more than 60 of the most popular Gaither-penned songs including "Because He Lives", "The King Is Coming" and "He Touched Me" in this special new 2-CD collection.

Average customer rating:

Fantastic Music
RAD
The title says it all!
Great music
krystal kicks it up another notch!

Something Beautiful
Bobbie Eakes
Manufacturer: Bci / Eclipse Music
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Jacob Young

ASIN: B00092ZLP8
Release Date: 2005-04-26

Tracks:

Dream Baby (How Long Must I Dream)
It's Only Make Believe
No More Lonely Nights
Best of Me
Something Beautiful
Moondance
I Want You, I Need You, I Love You
Don't Let Me Be Lonely Tonight
Make It With You
Kiss to Build a Dream On
I Can't Stop Loving You
Love Me

Tracks:

[DVD] [Making of Something Beautiful]

Customer Reviews:

Fantastic Music.......2007-07-16

This lady can really sing and sing she does on the CD. I watched her on AMC and just recently heard her sing in one of the episodes. Song selection is interesting. Most of the songs chosen were made popular by "male" artists but Bobby does a fanastic job on each one of them. They should let her sing more on the show. Wonderful balance of music chosen.

RAD.......2007-01-12

Well it is pretty simple, the title of the album is "Something Beautiful" and that is what the album is, beautiful. Her voice, I really enjoy. Though most, if not all the songs are covers, she does a wonderful job, and does justice to the origional artists. I really enjoy this album, and I reccommend it to others looking for a beautuful female voice to relax to.

The title says it all!.......2005-09-24

I learned about Bobbie Eakes when she played Macy Alexander on the CBS daytime serial The Bold & The Beautiful. I also found out she was a singer as well as an actress. Those who own this album also are fans of other singers/actresses like Katey Sagal,Bette Midler,Cher,Debbie Allen and Madonna.

Great music.......2005-09-15

I just recieved this CD and have listened to it three times.Love it!!!I hope to see her sing on All My Children.

krystal kicks it up another notch!.......2005-08-08

i love this woman as an actress but worship at her altar as a singer. this stuff is great the biggest and only drawback is that this is the only record i can find by her after searching the web un successfully to find at least one more. well maybe in time? this is great stuff so don't make my wait too long for the next one. start now bobbie and please come to pittsburgh so i can hear you sing this live and maybe get my copy autographed. having krystal become a lounge or country singer on all my children may be the next storyline for her let's hope.

Average customer rating:

Very sexy,romantic!
A Hidden Gem!
An acoustic delight
wonderful acoustic guitar cd
Exceptional Debut Album

First Dance
Noel Lorica
Manufacturer: NDC
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B0009JVTRA
Release Date: 2005-05-14

Tracks:

Back in 5
Samba in A
My Favorite Things
El Viento
First Dance
Midnight Dreams
Forgiveness
Sarong Bangi
Last Dance
Scent of Cinnamon
Warm Winds

Album Description

First Dance is the debut album of consummate acoustic guitarist, composer- Noel Lorica. Jazz Lovers will groove to the fresh compositions of Noel Lorica. He has mastered the style of Wayward Jazz. Wayward Jazz uses the acoustic guitar to wind its way through classic forms of jazz, from the provocative rhythms of Latin jazz while adding the precision of its Asian counterpart to the heartfelt melodies of Smooth Jazz. If you like Peter White or Marc Antoine it's a good bet you'll like Noel Lorica.

This collection of 11 instrumental works are truly songs without words. The guitar adds a voice filled with texture and emotion. Beginning with his award winning song " Back in Five", which introduces us to Noel Lorica's vibrant, harmonious compositions and superb musicianship. As the album continues, it picks up tempo with body swaying precision in "Samba in A." Then it takes on the familiar "My Favorite Things" with a most astonishing acoustic jazz interpretation. The journey further transports you to the cool Brazilian shores with the sultry melody of "El Viento". Only to be brought back to pure innocence with the solo guitar of title song "First Dance".

At this point, most albums lose passion but "First Dance" only begins to further captivate with skill and soul. Each song in this album has unique character and is worthy of its own accolade. Some diversifying with piano melodies and guitar highlights as in "Forgiveness" & " Scent of Cinnamon". Or "Sarong Bangi" which brings in the swing that standard lovers applaud. While Latin jazz fans will clamor for the strong percussions of "Midnight Dreams" & "Last Dance" Wayward style. Finally ending with the smooth flowing beat of "Warm Winds".

This has got to be one of the best new jazz albums of the year and Noel Lorica's remarkable introduction into the heart of the jazz community. You'll sure to enjoy this little Wayward excursion.

Customer Reviews:

Very sexy,romantic!.......2005-11-10

loved "el viento"very relaxing and sensous...back to 5 was very uplifting...all in all great job!

A Hidden Gem!.......2005-11-02

Lorica is a native of Manila, The Philippines and currently resides in South Florida. He's a Classical trained guitarist whose style resembles well established guitarists such as Peter White, Marc Antoine and Earl Klugh. His debut album has much promise. The recording has a variety of jazz rhythms which ventures from Asian to Flamenco to Brazil. His production is high quality and his original compositions are lovely. I personally enjoyed "Samba in 5" as well as "Midnight Dreams". He also holds his own on American standards such as Rogers & Hammerstein's "My Favorite Things". I see very good things for Lorica happening with this CD release. This is a hidden gem. It's a musical journey you'll enjoy.

An acoustic delight.......2005-07-28

great album...superior guitar playing in the same category as marc antoine,peter white,ken navarro,earl klugh.....seeing Mr.Lorica perform live is very entertaining and impressive...his passion for his instrument is very evident on live performances and is captured well into this cd

wonderful acoustic guitar cd.......2005-07-28

His style is a cross between Marc Antoine and Peter White with a slight more edge to it....I was very impressed with "Back to 5,Midnight dreams, and Last Dance" but the rest of the album is definitely a pure delight to your musical senses. For all those Antoine and White Fans this is an album worth your time...

Exceptional Debut Album.......2005-06-19

After seeing Noel perform live in Orlando and South Florida, I was excited to see his first CD hit the market. I was not disappointed!

The CD is a blend of mostly original samba/latin and smooth jazz . The samba and latin oriented songs were the highlights of the CD. If you like Bossa Nova (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bossa_nova), this CD most definitely has tracks that you will love.

While I liked the CD as a whole, here are the tracks that are my favorites:
Track 1 -- Back in 5
Track 2 -- Samba in A
Track 4 -- El Viento
Track 5 -- First Dance
Track 6 -- Midnight Dreams
Track 8 -- Sarong Bangi
Track 9 -- Last Dance
Track 11 -- Warm Winds

If you are looking to discover a new instrumentalist/song writer I recommend you try this CD.

Rodgers & Hammerstein: Songbook for Orchestra (Orchestral Suites)

Average customer rating:

Irresistible
"Some Enchanted Evening" with Kunzel and the Cincinnati Pops
Excellent!
Great Arrangments

Rodgers & Hammerstein: Songbook for Orchestra (Orchestral Suites)

Manufacturer: Telarc
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Classics of the Silver Screen

ASIN: B000003CXQ
Release Date: 1992-01-28

Tracks:

Oklahoma!
Carousel
State Fair
South Pacific
The King And I
Cinderella Waltz
Flower Drum Song
The Sound Of Music

Customer Reviews:

Irresistible.......2005-07-29

From beginning to end this CD is pure delight. A great recording has great music, a great performance, and great sound; this one scores on all three counts.

Rodgers and Hammerstein's musicals dominated Broadway in the 1940s and 1950s, and American musical theater has produced no more consistently eloquent and durable voice than Richard Rodgers. From his fertile genius flowed a surprising number of memorable songs, many of which have passed into and become an accepted and beloved part of modern American culture.

This well-filled CD (77:36) features symphonic arrangements (all but two by Robert Russell Bennett) of the music from Oklahoma (1943), Carousel (1945), State Fair (1945), South Pacific (1949), The King and I (1951), Flower Drum Song (1958), and The Sound of Music (1959). All the great tunes are here in suites from each musical that average 10-12 minutes in length. The arrangements are expert: rich, varied, and colorful. The performances are polished, idiomatic, and irresistible; Kunzel and this orchestra are thorough masters of this kind of material. And Telarc's sound (recorded 1991) is state-of-the-art (engineer Michael Bishop deserves to take a bow).

In short, there's nothing here to cloud your listening pleasure (the only quibble I can imagine is that some of your favorites may not last long enough), so it's hard for me to envision anyone with ears and a taste for music who wouldn't enjoy this CD. Warmly recommended. Finally, if you like this one as much as I do, you might want to know that the same team has produced a companion volume, the Lerner & Lowe Songbook for Orchestra.

"Some Enchanted Evening" with Kunzel and the Cincinnati Pops.......2003-12-26

Erich Kunzel's Rodgers and Hammerstein anthology with the Cincinatti Pops Orchestra is one of the best and most ravishing instrumental Rodgers and Hammerstein albums of all time. With sumptuous arrangements and warm, natural Telarc recording, this glorious 77-minute CD presents sweeping, melodic arrangements of over 60 Rodgers and Hammerstein selections, spanning eight scores, and Kunzel allows the Pops to play with a characterful and polished understanding of the Rodgers and Hammerstein idiom. The disc is enough to cheer you up on a dull day and make you smile, and it might even want to make you feel like a convert to Rodgers and Hammerstein musicals.

This CD has all the scores arranged chronologically. The OKLAHOMA! suite that opens this disc promises a feast for the senses, Kunzel ably evokes the territory's "bright, golden haze" in the way he conducts the various excerpts, until you feel the atmosphere of the country charm of the show, and the love-affair between Curly and Laurey. Then, in CAROUSEL, he ably evokes the pathos of this tragic R&H masterwork, especially in the truncated Waltz, but he leads a wonderfully melodic "June is Bustin' Out All Over" and a devotional "You'll Never Walk Alone." Although this suite does not include Billy's pivotal Soliloquy, it includes "If I Loved You" as an expression of his love for Julie, and within minutes you could be soaked in the ups and downs of the show's mood.

After a brief STATE FAIR suite, with sweeping renditions of "It Might As Well Be Spring" and "It's a Grand Night for Singing", we are brought into the disc's showstopping highlights. These highlights are the excerpts from SOUTH PACIFIC, THE KING AND I, and THE SOUND OF MUSIC. But yet Kunzel conducts the rest of the disc until the various suites amount to a series of showstoppers. These three suites present wonderfully-arranged versions of their many familiar classic songs, with well-played solos. The SOUTH PACIFIC suite presents the songs in chronological order, yet preserves the atmosphere of the show at the same time. Kunzel ably brings out the romance in "Some Enchanted Evening" and "Younger than Springtime," and contrasts it with the exotic and dreamlike "Bali Hai'i" and the comic "There is Nothing like a Dame" and "I'm Gonna Wash That Man Right Outa My Hair". Although the suite ends quietly with a reprise of "Dites-Moi" rather than the reprise of "Some Enchanted Evening," within minutes we are swept into the KING AND I suite. Kunzel ably brings out the Oriental pathos in this score, and he captures the warmth of Anna's rapport with the King's Siamese children in "Getting to Know You", and with the King himself in "Shall We Dance." There is also romance in the love ballads "I Have Dreamed" and "We Kiss in a Shadow." Similarly, in the selection from THE SOUND OF MUSIC, Kunzel conducts this until the orchestra soaks itself in the atmosphere of this Austrian R&H score. This SOUND OF MUSIC suite has more of a feel of the score compared to the bonus track on Sony's reissued version of the Broadway recording. You can almost feel as if you are following the progress of the Trapp family and how it lifts its spirits with the joy of music. Kunzel gives us a soaring version of the title song, and spirited versions of "Do-Re-Mi" and "My Favourite Things." He balances it with the open-air quality of "Edelweiss" and "The Lonely Goatherd." Although this suite could have included "Something Good," the love ballad written for the film, the three recollections of the songs that were cut from the movie only last for a while. And, the towering version of "Climb Every Mountain" crowns this portion of the disc, and this sumptuously-produced recording. But, I should also mention the infectuous FLOWER DRUM SONG medley, where Kunzel turns this underrated score into a work of art, until it convinces you to buy the cast recording. And, don't forget about the brief CINDERELLA WALTZ, too, when Kunzel conducts it magically, until you feel like you are in the company of Cinderella and the Prince. He is able to show how this R&H score marked a comeback for R&H after the failiures of Me and Juliet, and Pipe Dream.

Overall, this glorious Rodgers and Hammerstein recording is guarunteed to make you want to pucker your lips out for a whistle or sing along (to paraphrase another revew for Kunzel's Disney Spectacular disc) - even if this recording is music only, and as long as you know the words to the songs (and you might know a large handful of them already.) There is always a certain magic in this fine CD that makes you feel like you're sitting in the theatre watching these musicals, until it makes you feel like it is truly, to borrow two R&H song titles, "Some Enchanted Evening" and "Something Wonderful" to be in Kunzel's company for this R&H offering. It would certainly be one recording that could make you feel willing to buy the complete cast recordings of the shows. And I guaruntee that it will make you feel willing to pull out your existing copies of the cast recordings to listen to them again. I also guaruntee that it will be a cornerstone in any Rodgers and Hammerstein collection, just as it is in mine. Recommended heartily to any Rodgers and Hammerstein enthusiast and to fans of Erich Kunzel's work. And, you can play it while reading the Richard Rodgers biography, Musical Stages, until Rodgers himself would count this as his favourite disc in the afterlife.

By the way, most of the arrangements for the suites on this CD were done by the veteran R&H orchestrator Robert Russell Bennett, and it surely adds to the appeal of this recording. This itself is enough to amount to the icing on the cake, since Kunzel conducts them well on here, and since this recording still allows the suites to have the original theatrical atmosphere. And, although this recording is like the Mauceri collection of the Rodgers & Hammerstein overtures in compiling orchestral suites of Rodgers & Hammerstein, I think that I like the Kunzel recording even more because Kunzel has more magic in his conducting of these suites.

Excellent!.......2003-04-08

This is one of the best Erich Kunzel/Cincinnati Pops collections we own! A must for Rodgers and Hammerstein fans, too.

Great Arrangments.......2001-09-02

This is a first rate album with great arrangments and orchestrations. If you're a Rodgers and Hammerstein fan, you can't afford to miss this specatacular album

Average customer rating:

Elly Ameling now more available
Delight in every note
While they last...
Treasures From a Treasure
More than fully earned praise for an exceptional singer.

Artistry of Elly Ameling (Coll)
Elly Ameling
Manufacturer: Philips
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

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ASIN: B00007KMSJ
Release Date: 2003-10-14

Tracks:

Matthaus-Passion
Johannes-Passion
Weihnachts-Oratorium
Juditha Triumphans
Messiah
Crudel Tiranno Amor
Die Schopfung
Orlando Paladino
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18 Lieder
Frauenliebe Und- Leben
11 Lieder
20 Morike-Lieder

Customer Reviews:

Elly Ameling now more available .......2007-03-07

I had a 33 rpm album of Elly Ameling singing Schubert lieder accompanied by piano and clarinet at times. It was one of my all time favorite albums so I have been disappointed that I have not been able to find it anywhere on CD.

Now I can just buy this excellent collection. So much music in one place! Since I confess that I am far from an expert on the rest of her records, I look forward to hearing her sing many other styles and composers.

I think it is silly to criticize her for not singing Wagner, for example, since her version of many songs, especially lieder, are nothing short of sublime. I would like to hear how many Wagnerians sing Schubert or Mozart.

I doubt if they could approach the skill and soul with which Elly Ameling sings lieder.

Delight in every note.......2006-03-10

To speak as briefly as possible about this superb collection from an equally superb singer, what can I say but that Ms Ameling possessed a voice that shone with radiant warmth and star-like shimmer? And unlike many another light lyric soprano, Elly Ameling was possessed of a very high standard of musicianship, considerable intelligence, and a sort of immediate charm that captivates the listener.

So many of her recordings have still to be released on CD, but this 5CD-set goes some way towards remedying the situation. The repertoire spans a wide variety - French mèlodies, Lieder, light-hearted "sentimental" songs, Bach, etc. - and in each piece, Ms Ameling shows that quality of pearl-like beauty. It is a beauty which is also extremely pretty - a beauty of voice that is never overbearing and over-ripe, but perfectly blossoming upon the tree of inspiration.

I recommend this set unequivocally. It truly is sheer delight.

While they last..........2005-05-17

Elly Ameling held the quiet stage for recitals of great artistry and dignity for several decades and sadly most of the enormously successful CDs of her long career output are now unavailable. For those who have little access to the documentation of this very special artist, this box set is a must. It is a compilation of many of her recordings with differing accompanists, conductors, orchestras and composers. And while not all of the choices for inclusion here would be considered her greatest moments, there are enough works that sustain the warm memories of the little Dutch hausfrau who quietly and simply paid homage to composers with her clear and intelligent musicianship and radiant voice.

Ameling was known to schedule recitals of Schubert cycles and songs and in the afterglow of her performance answer the demand for curtain calls with additional Schubert melodies: she gifted her audience with the dignity of honoring a composer's works by maintaining the focus on that composer rather than milk the audience with the usual encore applause-getting favorites. And special moments such as quietly and pensively strolling through the orchestra during the Mahler 4th symphony to arrive at front stage, unapplauded, just in time for the opening line of her singing - those simple homage to composers and collaborators made her selfless manner endearing to audiences.

Despite the fact that Ameling's voice was on the small side she was always able to muster the projection to carry her message solidly in context with an orchestra. Yes, other more famous singers have recorded Ravel's quintessentially French SHEHERAZADE, but few have the perfection of diction and aura of mystery that Ameling maintained. Whether singing with piano or orchestra, or interpreting Bach, Mozart, Handel, and Vivaldi with the same degree of involvement as Brahms and Schumann and Schubert, Elly Ameling spanned a career that engendered passionate commitment from her fans. And this boxed set is a pocket full of memories to be treasured. Buy it before this too becomes unavailable. Grady Harp, May 05

Treasures From a Treasure.......2004-09-25

Treasures from a Treasure.

Ameling, one of the world's most beloved recitalists is captured here in a 5 CD collection offering some of her most beautiful recordings of song. While we are used to her perfection in songs of Bach, Mozart, Schubert, Schumann, Faure and Hahn, an added joy is her "pop" side, tackling - without a whiff of pretension, Porter, Kern, Gershwin, Ellington, et al.

What an absolute joy it is listening to this amazing artist sing these songs with an almost uncanny natural ease. There is no resorting to a "pop" voice and yet most of these pop standards songs sound as though they could have been written for her. Clean attacks, sometimes a bit of the pop technique of hanging on to a consonant longer than a classical artist normally would shows an appreciation and understanding of the style. Still, there is never once a compromise of her vocal beauty.

I like the way the songs have been arranged for her voice in that she sort of sings them clean, unaffected in the first half and then lets loose and kinda "swings" with it adding embellishments but never really changing her voice (Price, von Stade and other favorite singers of mine seem to have always added a breathy quality to much of their crossover material.)

Ameling doesn't resort to trying to "let her hair down" or get down and dirty, but rather the honest with which she approaches every one of these songs shows how much she enjoys singing them and her style is as refreshing as stumbling onto a cool spring on a sweltering summer's afternoon. A wonderful surprise.

More than fully earned praise for an exceptional singer........2003-07-15

As I had the privilige of hearing this outstanding Lied-singer during her long career in Holland and being the proud possessor of almost all her recordings, I cannot but fully agree with the professional and joyful review of Mr. Robert Holliston from Victoria, B.C. Canada.
Yes, it is unbelievable that of about the 150 recordings Mrs. Ameling made during her long career (for the greater part of course on the 'oldfashioned' LP's, as well as the innumerable Dutch live-recorded radio-concerts), so few CD's have been released.
Speaking of tradition: it was the page-turner of the Wigmore Hall in London who told Mrs. Ameling after her first recital in this hall, that she reminded him of Elisabeth Schumann. (And he certainly didn't mean her looks only!)
For those who are eager to hear her singing Ravel's Shéhérazade (just one example of stirring imagination combined with her Art of Singing) I can tell you that Philips released a 2-box CD of this work in 1999, combined with Debussy's La Damoiselle élue and a compilation of French mélodies, i.e. Debussy, Fauré, Duparc, Satie. One of the gems is Caplet's Le Corbeau et le Renard which even make children, who know the fables of La Fontaine, revel in the singing of the quarrelsome birds....
Her brilliant accompanyist is Rudolf Jansen. Let us cherish great artists in their art!

Average customer rating:

Spank The Mixers!
Love It!
WOW!
surprisingly good alt and emo
wonderful

Take a Chance on Something Beautiful
Half Past Forever (featuring Chris Sligh)
Manufacturer: Beat Down Productions
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music
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Based On A True Story

ASIN: B000NJWAHE
Release Date: 2007-03-13

Tracks:

Forever
Waiting
Hero
Know
In a Moment
Naive
Transcendental
Need
Rise
Closer
Convenience
Cry Tonight
Somewhere
Tunnel Vision
Gone
Beautiful
How Long

Amazon.com

If Randy, Simon, and Paula--or, for that matter, you--aren't exactly sure where American Idol contestant Chris Sligh's strong suit lies, the road to a more clear-eyed assessment starts with Something Beautiful: the disc, recorded with Sligh's hometown band Half Past Forever, irrefutably proves that the puffy-haired man with the nerd glasses is a first-class rock balladeer. Lyrically, Sligh is a searcher, not a yearner ("Is this it? Is this the place we all wanna be?" he asks sweetly on "Gone," a late, explosive number). And temperamentally, he's a softie: though he carries off the kind of rocker 'tude required to make tracks like "Hero" combust against his bandmates' blazing guitars, he's at his best when his heart is bared and bleeding (see "In a Moment," the album's strongest and most stirring song). As influences go, Half Past Forever have to hand it to Goo Goo Dolls, the Grand Poo-bahs of gut-wrenching rock. Time will tell whether Sligh's 'Fro Patrol propels him to Goo-caliber greatness. --Tammy La Gorce

From the Label

Small-town sensation Half Past Forever have finally broken onto the national scene with their new album Take a Chance on Something Beautiful. The draw for new listeners will no doubt be American Idol phenom, Chris Sligh, but don't be surprised to find his equally astonishing flair for songwriting and production. Even if the songs here weren't already his own, Chris's smooth control and distinctive, urgent ownership would make you believe he was spinning these wonders out of thin air. Backed by accomplished guitarists Adam Fisher and Cole Edmonson, Chris's gifts have the platform they've needed to let loose and shine.

Take a Chance is old school in some ways, delivering the refreshing album-based songwriting you didn't think existed in the mainstream anymore. Though several tracks should rightly become singles, this music was meant for more than 3-minute snatches, and has the wholeness of a concept album without the need for a concept. In other ways, the album is also on the leading edge of musical creativity. Alongside the delicious hooks of chart-bound hits like "Know" or "In a Moment," you're just as likely to find the complex musicality of songs like "Convenience," which melds hypnotic synth and soulful crooning with tinges of "A Day in the Life" and Gnarls Barkley. Or "Naive," which opens like a sorrowful Goo Goo Dolls hit, only to incorporate bits of Seal and Coldplay to refine the sound. Actually, the musical background here is so eclectic, it's probably most sensible to call this sound a remarkable beauty being born.

Take a Chance is an album that rewards multiple listens, and it may take you a dozen times through to begin realizing the lyrical depth or the calm interlacing between songs. Along with his Idol fame, Chris has a couple national songwriting awards under his belt, and it's not hard to hear the talent. You'll probably have the chorus to "Know" memorized by the third time around, but it may take a little longer until the meaning hits you like a slap in the face. And when Chris's half-despairing "I'm gone" moves into the album's last track, it's answered with the nascent discovery, "Now I know the pictures I hold on to are gone away / ... Maybe getting older brings me closer to you." There is remarkable range here: you'll find yourself carried away by equal parts free-spirit and turbulence, with songs evoking the spectrum from arena to quiet personal space. And all the while, Chris's soaring baritone will keep its enticing hooks in you. Certainly, there are missteps, and there is room for the music to grow. But Take a Chance on Something Beautiful is the sound of a band coming into its own.

Half Past Forever Photos

Customer Reviews:

Spank The Mixers!.......2007-07-29

I liked Chris Sligh from the moment I saw his audition for American Idol. He has a memorable voice with great range. I really couln't wait to get my hands on any CD he put out after Idol was over with but I didn't have to wait that long. Since this CD was recorded pre-Idol it was made available well before the end of the season. I watched Chris on Idol from week to week and realized we were not looking at a talent in the making or a work in progress. I am of the opinion that Chris Sligh believes he cannot and does not need to be any better than he already is. If this suffices for him, the additional stars I might have given this debut CD will have to be given elsewhere because it doesn't suffice for me. While Chris Sligh wrote, produced, plays guitar, bass, piano, wurly, keys, shared mixing with Adam Fisher and fronts the band with his gifted vocals, there is only one song on this CD that made me stop and listen; "In A Moment" is a gorgeous ballad and Chris performs it oh, so well. I'm sorry to say that the rest of the tracks left me wondering who or what the focal point was...the vocalist or the guitars! There were moments when I also wondered how many words Chris could fit into a musical phrase in the shortest amount of time. These types of songs make me want to run, and I did, right over to the sound system to shut it off or start the next track. I truly thought the mixing was terribly flawed. You may have the ability to be a one man band Chris, but you cannot do everything to perfection. I truly hope the Idol tour and the fact that Chris was in the top 10 create an atmosphere in which he can rejoice and also be humbled by. If he can do that and not always come off as if he's "all that" his next CD may be the one we've all been waiting for.

Love It!.......2007-07-07

I wish Chris made it further on American Idol, but it seems he always has his foot in the door. I really hope He makes more CD's I just love his voice and style of music.

WOW!.......2007-06-21

Chris & HPF,

Great singer, great songwriting, great band. I feel like my ears have won the Lottery! Thanks Chris for putting yourself through all the AI[...]to introduce yourself and HPF to America. I'll be a fan for as long as you guys want to keep putting it out there. I'm 55 and have been a musician for over 40 years and Chris, you have one of the best voices I've ever heard. I hear so many voices in yours. A little Paul Rogers, Steve Walsh, John Waite, Lou Graham and even some James Taylor. Thanks and God bless you. BTW, Simon must be tone deaf! You are easily the greatest singer that's ever been on American Idol. Remember to alway use your Super Powers for good and not evil. :-)

surprisingly good alt and emo.......2007-06-10

Very good production values. Cymbals a little bright and bass a little muted, but the vocals and playing are first rate. The songwriting shows a little sameness throughout but the best tracks deserve maximum exposure. Nickelback seems to be a big influence. If Half Past Forever is the name of the band you couldn't tell from the cover art. Judging by the potential shown here, Chris ought to keep this band together and just change the name of the band to Sligh.

wonderful.......2007-06-09

I personally have really enjoyed this. The cd starts with a great sound track quality, and after that it's so different and refreshing. I love it! I think Chris Sligh's lyrics are really great. They're not your typical cliche pop songs. If you're paying attention, it's really incredible.

Average customer rating:

Bought if for the 2nd time!

Take a Chance on Something Beautiful
Half Past Forever
Manufacturer: Brash Music
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

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Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
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ASIN: B000RGSOIC
Release Date: 2007-07-10

Tracks:

Forever
Waiting
Hero
Know
In A Moment
Naive
Transcendental
Need
Rise
Closer
Convenience
Cry Tonight
Somewhere
Tunnel Vision
Gone
Beautiful
How Long

Album Description

Small-town sensation Half Past Forever have finally broken onto the national scene with their new album. The draw for new listeners will no doubt be American Idol phenom, Chris Sligh, but don't be surprised to find his equally astonishing flair for songwriting and production. Even if the songs here weren't already his own, Chris's smooth control and distinctive, urgent ownership would make you believe he was spinning these wonders out of thin air. Backed by accomplished guitarists Adam Fisher and Cole Edmonson, Chris's gifts have the platform they've needed to let loose and shine.

Customer Reviews:

Bought if for the 2nd time!.......2007-07-12

I have just ordered this album for the 2nd time-I don't think I have ever purchased the same album by an artist twice, so that should tell you how good this CD is. I am a huge Chris Sligh fan and love HPF. I'm no music expert I just buy and listen to what I love, and I love this music-it hasn't left my player since I first bought it 4 months ago!

Average customer rating:

So Strong
Celtic Music Meets the Boy Bands
This Is Not Your Ordinary Everyday Irish Tenor Album
So Strong
What a beautiful mix of songs

So Strong
The Celtic Tenors
Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

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ASIN: B00005YUB4
Release Date: 2002-07-30

Tracks:

Nella Fantasia
Mull Of Kintyre
Love Of My Life
Ave Maria
The Green Fields Of France
A Crmost An Siol
Fionnghuala
The Town I Loved So Well
I Will Wait For You
(Something Inside) So Strong
The Contender
A Love So Beautiful
Dein Ist Mein Ganzes Herz (You Are My Heart's Delight)
The Star Of County Down
Adiago (vocalise)
Anthem (from Chess)

Customer Reviews:

So Strong.......2005-09-15

Celtic Tenors are marvelous. The only "tenor group" offering harmony. The material is beautiful and beautifully performed.

Celtic Music Meets the Boy Bands.......2003-11-09

If one looks at the jacket of the disk THE CELTIIC TENORS, the first impression is that the disk could also be called "The Three Irish Tenors goes boy band." The three Celtic tenors: Matthew Gilsenan, Niall Morris, and James Nelson, look rather young and hip, almost in a stereotypical way, and it is clear that the disk's first priority is to be a money maker. The obvious attempt at making a dollar (or in Ireland a punt or Euro) does not make the disk a waste. There are some very enjoyable musical moments on the disk, though nothing all that original or deep. The music ranges from popular tunes, traditional Irish music, and some light classical and operetta pieces. The musical highlight of the disk is an A Capella version of Barber's Adagio. This arrangement retains the piece's beauty as well as its haunting qualities. Though the song "Mull of Kintyre" is somewhat cheesy, it works on this disk and is one of the better tracks. The disk begins with a song titled "Nella Fantasia" a tune written by Emilio Morricone, and it's from a theme from his score of THE MISSION. According to the liner notes, the composer reluctantly allowed words for the piece. He should have held out a bit longer. The tune was first performed by Charlotte Church. It does not work for her, and it does not work for the Celtic Tenors either. Since the tune is so beautiful in the film, it's too bad it was not simply left alone.

This Is Not Your Ordinary Everyday Irish Tenor Album.......2003-10-02

Currently So Strong is my most favorite album. Unlike other Irish tenor albums I own, So Strong resonates unique total excellence achieved rarely by the blending of voices. It is a successful marriage of traditional and contemporary Irish vocal styling. Every cut is a true treasure. Listening to "Mull of Kintyre" I defy anyone not to hum this Paul McCartney melody. "The Green Fields of France" is a beautiful anti war anthem while "Ag Criost An Siol" is as spiritual as any gospel. Tears swell with "The Town I Loved So Well". "Something Inside" has an addictive beat and "The Contender" and "A Love so Beautiful" are haunting without being melancholy. I garantee that you'll have the CD player on high volume and repeat for the folk dance tune "The Star of the County Down" and inspiring "Anthem". I do.

So Strong.......2003-04-07

I was watching public television and saw "The Celtic Tenors". The next day I found their CD, "So Stong". Finding voices of such obvious quality producing harmony so perfectly is rare. The first song brought me to tears and I wanted to stand and cheer. In fact, I did. In my opinion, "The Celtic Tenors" have absolutely clear voices and sing with "Heart" whether it's concerning the town they love or the love they let slip away. I have already suggested the CD to many friends who have immediately purchased one for themselves. What a treat, what a treat.

What a beautiful mix of songs.......2003-01-15

I bought this on a whim after listening to the 30 second bits on this site. It is now one of my favorite albums. I can't stop listening to it! I walk around all day singing bits from 'So Strong' & 'Mull of Kintyre'. Each tenor is given equal billing & their voices flow together so well. I'm now anxiously awaiting either a US tour or a new album. The first album, simply titled 'Celtic Tenors' is wonderful as well. If you love men who can really sing, you will love this album!

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