Heart of the Matter [Import]

Editorial Reviews
Product Description
Heart of the Matter introduces the new sound of Andrew Roachford. His first album in 2 years, features a more soulful R'n'B production style, which has evolved from a career spanning over ten years. Heart of the Matter heralds a marked change in musical direction and one that will surprise many. Its a beautifully crafted album that features smooth soul ballads, jazzy laidback tunes, R&B grooves and forays into funk. Released on M3 records, a record label set up by Andrew with his management, the self written and produced 'Heart Of The Matter' perfectly showcases Andrew's talents as a jazz and classically trained pianist, consummate soul vocalist and producer as well as the songwriting prowess that has been well documented by critics, fans and fellow artists. EQ Recordings. 2004.

Heart of the Matter,Andrew Roachford,Soul/R & B

Heart of the Matter [Import]

The New Nostalgia
Average customer rating:

Like Jon Mayer? You'll LOVE JAK

Rock solid album

Really, really good but similar

one of the best. seriously.

THE BEST JAK YET !

The New Nostalgia

Manufacturer: 440 Records, LLC.
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Applause of the Rain

Twenty Three Places

Brother, Bring the Sun

Blackbird On A Lonely Wire

Chasing Mississippi

ASIN: B0008FUP2U
Release Date: 2005-04-26

Tracks:

Bound
Dog Day
Middle of Nothing
Me and Myself
The Last Time
Something
Unbound
Goodnight (I'm So Sorry)
Yellow Rose
Into The Love
Diamonds
Seamless
Begin To Cry

Product Description

"The New Nostalgia" picks up where Christopher Jak's critically acclaimed debut, "Applause of the Rain," left off. With heart-of-the-matter lyrics and sweet melodies to match, this collection of songs offers pop, rock and lush ballads. Christopher's voice possesses the smoothness of today's pop artist while echoing the unpolished emotion of folk, country and bluesgrass vocal icons.

Customer Reviews:

Like Jon Mayer? You'll LOVE JAK.......2006-07-15

Wow. I have both of Jak's CDs. Each is awesome. Extremely well done - lyrics, music, tone...wow. I can't wait until a third album. I can't get enough. He's my new favorite singer-songwriter. You WILL NOT be disappointed with this purchase.

Rock solid album.......2006-04-09

I found Chris' album via surfing right here on Amazon and discovered an awesome find! You can visit his site for music samples. I like his voice a lot -- there's a little bit of gravel to it that makes it unique. All the songs on the album are really strong. Most of them have an upbeat sound that puts me in happy mood. A few of the slower ones remind me sleeping in on a rainy afternoon.

Yes, of course there will be comparisons to other singer songwriters like John Mayer. And yes, if you are a John Mayer fan, you'd probably enjoy Chris. That said, I think they are pretty different. Aside from the voices being different, I think Chris writes really "round" songs (I mean some of them contain piano, string instruments and have a holistic band sound) that's a different sound than Mayer. I enjoyed this album a lot and keep find something new as I keep listening. I think you'll enjoy it too.

Really, really good but similar.......2006-03-18

When I first listened to the songs on this CD at Jak's Official Website (yes, he lets you listen to the entire album), I thought it was good, but nothing special. But, then I found myself listening to it again and again. Finally I couldn't get enough of it, so I bought it. If you like music by Howie Day or Ryan Cabrera, then you will like this album. I especially like the lyrics to Yellow Rose.

But, I only give it 4 stars because it lacks just that little bit of originality of sound - that one thing that makes him stand out in the crowd of similar artists. But, that doesn't mean that is isn't a good album, because it really is a good one.

one of the best. seriously........2005-09-02

this guy is the real deal...a total triple-threat.
1) he's a talented songwriter. his lyrics are powerfully visual without relying on typical pop cliche or nausea-inducing sentimentality. his guitar work is fun, and the music is really pretty amazing.
2) the guy's got one of the more versatile tenor voices out there. kinda reedy, kinda sexy. a little duncan skeik, a little ari hest.
3) christopher jak has a rockin' face

this guy is gonna be huge. the disc is just awesome. catch an amazing talent and buy this album, it is seriously one of the best discs of the last five years. and if he's playing near you, check him out...he's incredible live.

THE BEST JAK YET !.......2005-08-22

Christopher Jak is that rare artist that puts everything on the table through his amazing singing and songwriting. This is his best album yet. I just wish he would release an unplugged version as well so we can appreciate all aspects of his unique gift.

Grand Canyon: Music From The Original Motion Picture Soundtrack

Average customer rating:

Listened to this soundtrack from the age of 7
amazing james, amazing
Once you hear it, it will never let you go.
Another under rated score from James Newton Howard

Grand Canyon: Music From The Original Motion Picture Soundtrack

Manufacturer: Milan Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Movie Scores | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

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Similar Items:

Grand Canyon
Signs (Score)
The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers - The Complete Recordings

ASIN: B0000015LK
Release Date: 1996-07-02

Tracks:

Main Titles
Claire Returns The Baby
My Sister Lives Around Here/Those Rocks
Bloodstain
The Baby
Don't Work Late
Mack's Flashback
Don't Want Out
Searching For A Heart
Mack And Claire's Dream
Dee In Brentwood
Otis Runs
You White?
Keep The Baby
Doesn't Matter
Grand Canyon Fanfare/End Titles

Customer Reviews:

Listened to this soundtrack from the age of 7.......2005-12-16

When the movie came out, I was about 7 yrs old, living in California. As I heard the theme at the beginning of the movie, I knew I had to have the soundtrack. I have probably listened to it a million times since then, and it nevers gets old or less hauntingly beautiful. This is a soundtrack everyone must have. The Grand Canyon Fanfare/End Titles track is amazing, especially due to Howard's use of french horns. GET THIS SOUNDTRACK!!! YOU WILL LOVE IT!!!

amazing james, amazing.......2004-05-10

i think is all said by the first reviewer(great review), i don't know how much time newton howard plays in this cd but the time he does is just one of the best moments of music i've listened to in my whole life. You won't be tired after hours playing the main song. I follow james and by now this is the best in my opinion. Just get it.

Once you hear it, it will never let you go........2000-09-08

A single E minor note in the bass, followed immediately with a short, quick arpeggio by an electric guitar which fades off into the distance. A choir begins to sing a haunting sequence of chords, accentuated by conga drums. After two such sequences, a synth bass pattern fades in, gains strength, and blends in with the choir. This bass pattern is not unlike that heard several times in "The Fugitive", which would be made two years later. The drum kit and electric guitars jump in periodically with accentuating chords of their own. This pattern continues until the music does a complete 180 degree turn and becomes livelier, signaling the start of the slow motion TV basketball sequence.

So begins the Main Title of "Grand Canyon" by James Newton Howard, composer of such dramatic scores as "The Fugitive", "The Devil's Advocate", "A Perfect Murder", "Outbreak", and the theme from "ER."

The first time I saw the movie, I couldn't get that haunting synth bass pattern from the theme out of my head. After the second time, I was that much more determined to find this recording. Most of the cues on this album are for the more climatic action sequences in the film (the shootings, finding the baby, the dream scenes, etc.) But the album does have its bright points. The Warren Zevon song, "Searching for a Heart" is here, heard as Roberto is saying goodbye to his summer girlfriend from camp. And at the end of the album, the "Grand Canyon" theme, played triumphantly by a brass section, resounds with the knowledge that if we keep hope alive, good will forever conquer evil. A very touching album.

Another under rated score from James Newton Howard.......2000-09-05

James Newton Howard is a teriffic composer. He has written some magnificent scores such as Waterworld, Wyatt Earp, Dinosaur and The Postman to name just a few. Grand Canyon is no exception. It is reminicent of some of his other scores by its use of the brilliant L.A Master Chorale to give the music great depth (much like Dinosaur and The Postman). Grand Canyon is in parts quiet and mystical and sometimes bold and sweeping. It also has moments of tension like that of the score for a thriller. Overall it is a great listening experience.

Average customer rating:

I waited for this for five years
Excellent collection but BIG PUBLISHING MISTAKE!
ONE OF LLOYD WEBBER'S BEST COMPILATIONS, DESPITE A FEW FLAWS
SUCH MAGICAL MUSIC OF THE NIGHT!
A Must Have for Sir Andrew fans

Andrew Lloyd Webber: Now & Forever
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Decca Broadway
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

Gold: The Definitive Hits Collection
The Very Best Of Andrew Lloyd Webber: The Broadway Collection
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Andrew Lloyd Webber - Masterpiece (Collector's Edition) (Bonus CD)
Sunset Boulevard (1993 Original London Cast)

ASIN: B00005R5UJ
Release Date: 2001-11-20

Tracks:

Jesus Christ Superstar: Overture - Andrew Lloyd Webber
Jesus Christ Superstar: Everything's Alright - Yvonne Elliman/Murray Head/Ian Gilllan
Jesus Christ Superstar: I Don't Know How To Love Him - Yvonne Elliman
Jesus Christ Superstar: Gethsemane (I Only Want To Say) - Steve Balsamo
Jesus Christ Superstar: Superstar - Murray Head
Evita: Oh What A Circus/Sing You Fools - Antonio Banderas
Evita: I'd Be Surprisingly Good For You - Elaine Paige/Joss Ackland
Evita: Another Suitcase In Another Hall - Barbara Dickson
Evita: Don't Cry For Me Argentina - Julie Covington
Evita: High Flying, Adored - Mandy Patinkin/Patti LuPone
Cats: The Jellicle Ball - Andrew Lloyd Weber
Cats: Memory - Elaine Paige
Cats: Gus: The Theatre Cat - Susan Jane Tanner/John Mills
Cats: Mr Mistoffelees - Paul Nicholas
Song And Dance: Take That Look Off Your Face - Marti Webb
Song And Dance: Tell Me On A Sunday - Marti Webb
Song And Dance: Unexpected Song - Sarah Brightman
Song And Dance: Nothing Like You've Ever Known - Sarah Brightman
Song And Dance: Introduction - Andrew Lloyd Webber
Song And Dance: Variations 1 -4 - Andrew Lloyd Webber

Tracks:

Starlight Express: Starlight Express - El Debarge
Starlight Express: Crazy - Greg Ellis/Reva Rice/Caron Cardelle/Samantha Lane/Voyd
Starlight Express: Next Time You Fall In Love - Reva Rice/Greg Ellis
Starlight Express: I Am The Starlight - Lon Satton/Ray Shell
Starlight Express: Light At The End Of The Tunnel - The Company
Requiem: Hosanna - Placido Domingo
Requiem: Pie jesu - Sarah Brightman/Paul Miles-Kingston
The Phantom Of The Opera: The Phantom Of The Opera - Michael Crawford/Sarah Brightman
The Phantom Of The Opera: The Music Of The Night - Michael Crawford
The Phantom Of The Opera: All I Ask Of You - Sarah Brightman/Steve Barton
The Phantom Of The Opera: Entr'acte - Andrew Lloyd Webber
The Phantom Of The Opera: Masquerade - The Company
The Phantom Of The Opera: Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again - Sarah Brightman
Aspects Of Love: Aspects Of Aspects - Orchester Der Vereinigten Buehnen Wien
Aspects Of Love: Love Changes Everything - Michael Ball
Aspects Of Love: Seeing Is Believing - Michael Ball/Ann Crumb
Aspects Of Love: The First Man You Remember - Kevin Colson/Diana Morrison
Aspects Of Love: Anything But Lonely - Sarah Brightman
Aspects Of Love: Chanson D'Enfance - Sarah Brightman

Tracks:

Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat: Any Dream Will Do - Jason Donovan
Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat: Joseph's Coat - Maria Friedman/Richard Attenborough/Donny Osmond
Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat: Close Every Door - Donny Osmond
By Jeeves: Travel Hopefully - John Scherer/Martin Jarvis/Don Stephenson
By Jeeves: When Love Arrives - Steven Pacey/Diana Morrison
By Jeeves: Half A Moment - Sarah Brightman
Sunset Boulevard: With One Look - Glenn Close
Sunset Boulevard: New Ways To Dream - Glenn Close/Alan Campbell
Sunset Boulevard: The Perfect Year - Glenn Close/Alan Campbell
Sunset Boulevard: Sunser Boulevard - Alan Campbell
Sunset Boulevard: As If We Never Said Goodbye - Glenn Close
Whistle Down The Wind: Whistle Down The Wind - James Graeme/Lottie Mayor
Whistle Down The Wind: Cold - Everly Brothers
Whistle Down The Wind: No Matter What - Children/Adult Chorus
Whistle Down The Wind: The Nature Of The Beast - Marcus Lovett/Lottie Mayor
The Beautiful Game: Overture - Andrew Lloyd Webber
The Beautiful Game: The Beautiful Game - The Company
The Beautiful Game: Our Kind Of Love - Hannah Waddingham
The Beautiful Game: Dont Like You - Josie Walker/David Shannon
The Beautiful Game: Let Us Love In Peace - Josie Walker/Omagh Youth Community Choir

Tracks:

Oh What A Circus - David Essex
Memory - Betty Buckley
The Phantom Of The Opera - Sarah Brightman/Steve Harley
All I Ask Of You - Sarah Brightman/Cliff Richard
Love Changes Everything - Michael Ball
Any Dream Will Do - Donny Osmond
Amigos Para Siempre (Friends For Life) - Sarah Brightman/Jose Carreras
As If We Never Said Goodbye - Barbra Streisand
The Perfect Year - Dina Carroll
With One Look - Petula Clark
You Must Love Me - Madonna
The Heart Is Slow To Learn - Kiri Te Kanawa
A Kiss Is A Terrible Thing To Waste - The Metal Philharmonic Orchestra
Whistle Down The Wind - Tina Arena
No Matter What - Boyzone
The Vaults Of Heaven - Tom Jones
Try Not To Be Afraid - Boy George
Pie Jesu - Charlotte Church

Tracks:

Make Believe Love - Wes Sands
Down Thru' Summer - Ross Hannaman
I'll Give All My Love To Southend - Ross Hannaman
Believe Me I Will - Sacha Distel
Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (1969 Radio Luxembourg Commercial) - Joseph Consortium/Pete Murray
Try It And See - Rita Pavone
Come Back Richard Your Country Needs You - Time Rice And The Webber Group
Goodbye Seattle - Paul Raven
John 19:41 - The Andrew Lloyd Webber Orchestra
What A Line To Go Out On - Yvonne Elliman
Disillusion Me - Gary Band
The Ballad Of Robert And Peter - Tim Rice
Christmas Dream - Maynard Williams
It's Only Your Lover Returning/All Through My Crazy And Wild Days/Don't Cry For Me Argentina - Julie Covington
It's Easy For You (1977 Jungle Room Session Version) - Elvis Presley
Magdalena - Tony Christie
Buenos Aires - The Roja Rockers
Pollicle Dogs And Jellicle Cats - Andrew Lloyd Webber
Mungojerrie And Rumpleteazer (Live At The Sydmonton Festival 1980) - Gemma Craven
I Could Have Given You More - Petula Clark
I've Been In Love Too Long - Marti Webb
Benedicite - The Stephen Hill Singers

Album Description

Disc 1: Selections from Jesus Christ Superstar, Evita, Cats, and Song and Dance

Disc 2: Selections from Starlight Express, Requiem, Phantom of the Opera, and Aspects of Love

Disc 3: Selections from Joseph nad the Amaziong Technicolor Dreamcoat, By Jeeves, Sunset Boulevard, Whistle Down the Wind, and The Beautiful Game

CD 4: 1. "Oh What a Circus" --David Essex 2. "Memory" - Betty Buckleey 3. "The Phantom of the Opera" -Sarah Brightman, Steve Harley 4. "All I Ask of You" --Sarah Brightman, Cliff Richard 5. "Love Changes Everything"--Michael Ball 6. "Any Dream Will Do"--Donny Osmond 7. "Amigos Para Siempre (Friends for Life)"--Sarah Brightman, Jose Caerras 8. "As if We Never Said Goodbye"--Barbra Streisand 9. "The Perfect Year"--Dina Carroll 10. "With One Look" --Petula Clark 11. "You Must Love Me" 12. "The Heart Is Slow To Learn" --Kiri Te Kanawa 13. "Whistle Down the Wind"--Tina Arena 14. "A Kiss Is a Terrible Thing To Waste"--The Metal Philharmonic 15. "No Matter What"--Boyzone 16. "The Vaults of Heaven"--Tom Jones and Sounds of Blackness 17. "Try Not To Be Afraid"--Boy George 18. "Pie Jesu"--Charlotte Church

Disc 5: (All tracks available for the first time) 1. "Make Believe Love"--Wes Sands 2. "Down Thru' Summer"--Ross Hannaman 3. "I'll Give All My Love to Southend"--Ross Hannaman 4. "Believe Me I Will"--Sacha Distel 5. "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat: 1969 Luxembourg Radio Commercial--The Jospeh Consortium, Pete Murray 6. "Try It and See"--Rita Pavone 7. "Come Back Richard Your Country Needs You"--Tim Rice and the Webber Group 8. "Goodbye Seattle"-- Paul Raven 9. "John 19:41"--The Andrew Lloyd Webber Orchestra 10. "What a Line To Go Out On"--Yvonne Elliman 11. "Disillusion Me" --Gary Bond 12. "The Ballad of Robert and Peter"--Tim Rice 13. "Christmas Dream" --Maynard Williams 14. "It's Only Your Lover Returning/All through My Wild and Crazy Days/Don't Cry for Me Argentina--Julie Covington 15. "It's Easy for You" (1977 Jungle Room Session version)--Elvis Presley 16. "Magdalena"--Tony Christie 17. "Buenos Aires"--The Rioja Rockers 18. "Pollicle Dogs and Jellicle Cats"--Andrew Lloyd Webber original demo 19. "Mungojerrie and Rumpleteazer" (Live at Sydmonton Festival 1980)-Gemma Craven 20. "I Could Have Given You More"--Petula Clark 21. "I've Been in Love Too Long"--Marti Webb 22. "Benedicte"-- Stephen Hill Singers

Customer Reviews:

I waited for this for five years.......2006-06-30

Between Amazone, Ebay and Napster, I don't usually buy CDs anymore, and I usually wait till I can buy them cheaper "new and used". When this set came out, I was excited, mainly by Disc 5, but wasn't going to spend $70 on it. I waited till it was cheap enough, and got it for Father's day this year.
It was worth the wait.

The concept is great. The packaging is great. The recording is great. Disc five is really cool for an ALW aficionado. There are a few real gems on it; my favorites are Petula Clark's "I Could Have Given You More" and "Benedicite."
I've always thought "Gus the Theatre Cat" made a great medley on the piano with "Unexpected Song" and "I DOn't Know How to Love Him," but wished there was an alternate lyric to match the other two songs. Now that I know there *is*, and it's a good lyric, it's a dream come true.
The melody of "Benedicite" is one of my favorites from _Sunset_ (the book mis-identifies it as "SUrrender"; it's actually "The Lady's Paying" and "Eternal Youth is Worth a Little Suffering"). The lyrics are the canticle from Daniel 3, which comes up every odd Sunday in the Divine Office, so it's nice to have cool music to sing it with.

I haven't bought _By Jeeves_ or _THe Beautiful Game_ yet, to it was great to sample them.

There are other parts of the CD taht aren't found in my collection. I like CD 4 "The Hits."

But the selections on CDs 1-3 don't make sense.

First, any self-respecting ALW fan has the Original London Cast of _Phantom_, so six tracks are totally useless. Why not draw from the Canadian cast with Colm Wilkinson? Or pull out some obscure recordings never published.

Why two different tracks with Michael Ball singing "Love Changes Everything", yet they're hardly any different?

On Disc 5 is "It's Only Your Lover Returning," sung by Julie Covington. It's an early draft of the song (Lloyd Webber and Rice went through several suggested titles) and quite nice. The very thing one expects on a Boxed Set.
So why have the Julie Covington "Don't Cry for Me" on disc 1?? The only difference is a few words, but it's otherwise identical. Why not Elaine Paige or Patti Lupone or Madonna?

The _Evita_ section is otherwise the best, choosing a sample from each major recording, though I'd have chosen slightly differently (as above).

There is a great selection of "Mungojerrie and Rumpleteazer" from the Sydmonton festival, using the original music that was changed when _Cats_ went to Broadway_. It would have been nice if they'd included more recordings from Sydmonton, like the original lyric of "All I Ask of You" shown on the second DVD to the _Phantom_ movie.

With so many great actress-singers who've played Norma Desmond, why does the collection beat us over the head with Glenn Close?

Paul Miles Kingston must be set for life in royalties, for the number of albums the original recording of "Pie Jesu" has appeared on. "Amigos Para Siempre" is nice, but it reminds me of Shari Lewis's "The Song that Doesn't End," especially when it's been used on so many compilations.

In short, this is a great collection for the obscure material, if you can get it cheap. But for a boxed set, it's a poor sampling, drawn mostly from the most familiar recordings.

Excellent collection but BIG PUBLISHING MISTAKE! .......2006-01-10

Please beware they made a mistake on this. It's actually the shortened Ray Shell version of STARLIGHT EXPRESS from the original 1984 London cast - NOT the El Debarge single from 1987 like it says on the box. I don't know how they let that goof pass. Sorry to Ray Shell. Having said that, this is an outstanding compilation of Lloyd Webber's greatest hits.

ONE OF LLOYD WEBBER'S BEST COMPILATIONS, DESPITE A FEW FLAWS.......2005-03-21

Regardless of the fact that some of his latest efforts (most notably, The Woman in White) are disappointing, there can be little doubt that Andrew Lloyd Webber is one of the greatest composers ever to work in the musical theatre. Ever since his "Jesus Christ Superstar" hit the stage in the early 70-is, it was clear that the conception and perception of musicals are never going to be the same again. Many of his songs became standards not only in the theatre history, but also as tops on the charts. Even though he's British, his influence on the shape of the modern musical theatre expanded over the West End boundaries long ago and has thus made an enormous impact on Broadway. Two of his shows ("Cats" and "The phantom of the opera") hold the record as two the longest running shows in the history of Broadway. He has also been the only composer to have three of his shows running at Broadway concurrently. Some of his awards include three Grammies, a Golden Globe, an Oscar and a bunch of Tony awards. But perhaps most of all, Lloyd Webber is responsible for bringing the musicals and the theatre appealing to the wide audiences, who in different circumstances would not consider seeing a musical. The secret of his success is probably the mixture of beautiful and catchy melodies, interesting subject matter (though some, like Starlight Express, are too thin) and grandiose staging.

Over the years many compilations of his work have emerged. In the late 80-is and early 90-is it was the "Encore" series and lately the one-disc collection called "Gold". The one in question here can be considered one of the best currently on the market. First, it includes a 3-disc selections from all of his shows, minus the latest one, i.e., "The Woman in White", which, considering the triviality of the score, is no great lost. The fourth disc covers some of his most known songs sung by the famous artists. Then, there is the fifth disc with previously unreleased material, most of which are the songs ALW wrote with Tim Rice for various artists during the 70-is. The disks are all neatly packed in a hardcover book that features 67 pages of pictures and text with information about each of ALW's shows. One of the other assets here is the perfect sound quality, since all of the tracks have been digitally remastered.

Here are my basic impressions and comments regarding the material on the discs:

* Disc #1 has the selections from "Jesus Christ Superstar", "Evita", "Cats" and "Song & Dance". The Superstar material mostly comes from the Concept Recording. Although the songs sound beautiful as always, their orchestration is a bit dated now. Only Steve Balsamo's "Gethsemane" from the 1996 revival cast has a modern rock sound. "Evita" comes with the material from all of the major recordings: London, Broadway and the movie productions, as well as the Concept album. No objections here; since this is one of ALW's most satisfying works, every song is just perfect, although Patti LuPone, the Broadway and overall the best Evita, is left with only a couple of lines. With the selections from "Cats", however, I have some doubts. A plus to the choice of the "Jellicle ball" impressive orchestral sequence from the 1998 movie version and "Mister Mistoffelees" from the 1981 London cast. One of the best known ALW's songs, "Memory", also comes from that album. It's a pretty version and Elaine Paige's rendition cannot be matched, but why include this when the definite version, featuring an 80-piece orchestra and Elaine Paige with much better interpretation, can be found in the same movie version. Thusly, one has to buy Elaine Paige's latest 2-disc compilation "Centre Stage: The very best of Elaine Paige" to get that one. And "Gus the theatre cat" is more a recital than a song, so there was not much point in including that. Marti Webb brings her vocal charm to the "Song & Dance" sequence, Sarah Brightman sings "Unexpected song" with her famous soprano, but as much as I like her version, Bernadette Peters, who was in this show on Broadway is strangely left out here.

* Disc # 2 starts with "Starlight Express". This was never one of my favorite ALW's shows; the plot is even lighter than in "Cats" and the 1984 original cast recording is terribly dated. Yet, here we have one terrific duet, "I am starlight" from the original together with three songs from the later revivals and it seems that fresh orchestrations were just the thing Starlight needed. My favorite remains a touchy ballad, "Next time you fall in love". "Requiem" is the most solemn of all ALW's compositions, written in 1985 to commemorate the death of his father. Placido Domingo's tenor rides together with the chorus all the way through the strong "Hosanna", only to be joined by Sarah Brightman in the final moments of this song. She then gives an echoing deliverance of "Pie Jesu". What can be said of ALW's next show, "The Phantom of the Opera"? A phenomenon in its own right, it's easy to see from the six numbers included here why this is one of the best and most beloved musicals of all time. The cast, the music, the story - everything is perfect. Although "Aspects of love" was never a popular hit, it does have some of the most beautiful love melodies ALW has ever written. "Love changes everything" sung by Michael Ball is probably one of the best tunes ever about love. The rest of the selected material here has a dreamy love flavor and the melodies find their way into your brain in the best Lloyd Webber way.

* ALW's first musical, "Joseph and the amazing Technicolor dreamcoat" was more successful in its revival form than the original from the 70-is. The three songs included here are sung by the show stars, Jason Donovan and Donny Osmond. Maria Friedman was not a lucky choice to play the narrator, as the track from the 1998 movie version shows. "By Jeeves" was ALW's only big flop when it came to the stage in the 70-is. The 1995 revival sounds much better though, full of funny numbers in the best manner of the musical comedy. "Travel hopefully" remains one of the show's highlights on this compilation. "Sunset Boulevard" comes next. "Sunset" remains for me one of Webber's best scores; lush and beautiful. I listen to the original cast recording with Patti LuPone all the time. However, here most of the songs are performed by Glenn Close. A big mistake. If you've ever listened the American premiere recording with her, you'll know what I am talking about. She may have a strong stage presence, but her vocal abilities are too limited, and her aggressive approach to the role lacks any subtlety. Therefore, the two big numbers from this show, "With one look" and "As if we never said goodbye" are ruined by the fact she can't sing. The same goes for the American Joe Gillis, who was played by Alan Campbell. Luckily, Patti LuPone and Kevin Anderson, the original Norma and Joe from the London production, make their brief entrance here with the "Perfect year"; enough to show how better they are. The funny thing is, on the jacket and inside of it, Glenn Close and Alan Campbell are credited as performers in this song as well. If this was a mistake on ALW's part, it was a good one. The next ALW's show, "Whistle down the wind" was never a critic's dear and yet the audiences rushed in to see it in London. The score brings back ALW to his rock and roll roots of the seventies and the story is quite interesting. But the selections here are not the happiest, since the cast recording boasts with much better songs. And finally, "The Beautiful Game". Again, we have one of those ALW's shows that is worth in its individual parts rather than as a whole. "Our kind of love" and "Let us love in peace" are two catchy ballads. The latter is a nice amalgam version not available elsewhere. The two other tracks here I could live without.

* Disc # 4 has the songs from all the above shows performed by different artists. The assembled tracks have their pros and cons. For example, we have some previously unreleased stuff, like Dame Kiri Te Kanawa's operettic rendition of "The heart is slow to learn", or a stunning and epic "A kiss is a terrible thing to waste" from "Whistle down the wind", performed by The Metal Philharmonic Orchestra. Then again, what was the point in including almost identical tracks as the ones on the previous disks? So we have Michael Ball again singing "Love changes everything" with only a bit different orchestration; Sarah Brightman comes out again with the same Phantom duets, but only with the different male singers. It would be much more appropriate to include tracks from the Toronto Cast of the Phantom, with Colm Wilkinson. Other pop deliverances (Tina Arena's "Whistle down the wind", Barbra Streisand's "As if we never said goodbye", Boyzone's "No matter what" and many more) were wisely chosen. Patti LuPone is again nowhere to be found and Petula Clark's "With one look" sounds too worn-out.

* The last disc is probably the one that will be of most interest to Lloyd Webber aficionados. It consists of entirely previously unreleased material ALW for the most part wrote for various artists during his early years, with Tim Rice. Some of these tunes, not successful as a singles, were later used in his shows. Thus "Down thru' summer" became "Buenos Aires"in Evita, "Try it and see", an unsuccessful attempt for the Eurovision was used for "King Herod's song" in "Superstar" and so on. Some of these songs are nicely made pop songs: "Make believe love", ALW's first recorded composition, for which he provided the lyrics; "Goodbye Seattle", sung by Paul Raven, who later became Gary Glitter; "Come back Richard, your country needs you", from a never made musical, sung here by Tim Rice, or Latin flavored "Magdalena", with Tony Christie singing. My all time favorite here is a song called "It's easy for you", sung by none other than Elvis Presley himself. Lloyd Webber and Rice sent him a demo recording that he accepted and recorded this live version a couple of weeks before he died. It's amazing to hear how his voice remained in the perfect shape. Also, there is a track of Andrew Lloyd Webber singing "Policle dogs and Jellicle cats" while plying the piano. His voice doesn't sound bad at all.

Taken as a whole, this compilation makes a perfect birthday or Christmas present to any fan of Andrew Lloyd Webber shows, or just anybody interested in some of the best tunes from the modern era of the musical theatre; despite the flaws I mentioned above. To the former, it may just be the final addition for the Andrew Lloyd Webber collection.

SUCH MAGICAL MUSIC OF THE NIGHT!.......2003-01-19

"Evita." "Sunset Blvd." "Starlight Express." "Jesus Christ Superstar." "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat." "Requiem." "Aspects of Love." The man who is the most recognized composer in the history of the musical theatre, the man who has won more Tonys than any other composer, the man who boasts the best-selling show of all time ("The Phantom of the
Opera") and the longest-running show of all time ("Cats"), the man whose homes are filled with three Grammys, five Oliviers, a Golden Globe, and Oscar and too many other honors and hosannas to mention, the man knighted in 1992 certainly doesn't need an introduction. Now Decca Broadway pays tribute to Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber with "Now and Forever," a spectacular 5-CD set compiled and produced by Sir Andy himself. It's cheaper than a
ticket to "The Producers" ... and more much exciting. This treasure trove contains highlights from all of Webber's shows, and a bonus disc of tunes sung by Betty Buckley, Barbara
Streisand, Jose Carreras, Boy George, Charlotte Church, Madonna, Tom Jones, Petula Clark, even Elvis! A must for lovers of theatre---and good music.

A Must Have for Sir Andrew fans.......2002-05-21

This five-CD collection of Andrew Lloyd Webber's career is fantastic. It leaves virtually no stone unturned. I have no doubt that diehard Webber fans will love this, especially for the 5th disc entitled "From the Vaults." This disc alone is worth the price as it contains tunes never before heard by the typical fan. Who knew Elvis did a Lloyd Webber tune?!? I didn't! Also the tune "Benedictine" which the composer wrote for his most recent marriage is not only pretty, but it has the same medley as "The Lady's Paying" from "Sunset Blvd." which I found highly enjoyable. Another great track is the composer himself singing a cut song from "Cats" entitled "Pollicle Dogs and Jellicle Cats" which has the same tune as "Jellicle Songs for Jellicle Cats," but to hear Sir Andrew sing is a blast...he sounds a lot like Al "Year of the Cat" Stewart.
The cuts from the musicals are great but are likely owned by ALW fans as they are on the original cast albums. And I'm glad that there were tunes included from the composers most recent efforts which have yet to make it beyond London (Whistle Down the Wind, Beautiful Game).
My only complaint is the inclusion of way too many tracks by Sarah Brightman. She must've received a great divorce settlement that included having tunes on any ALW collection until the end of time!! Her interpretations of some of the tunes were limp and uninspired. I would've much rather heard casts from around the world rather than yet another song by this disdainful soprano! How about Colm Wilkinson's version of "Music of the Night" from the original Canadian cast of "Phantom"? Or Michael Crawford's version of "Unexpected Song"? What? No Betty Buckley from "Sunset Blvd."? And of course there are songs you KNOW are going to be on the collection before you even listen to it as they have been on EVERY ALW collection for the past decade or so.
A great collection but too much Sarah Brightman!

The Heart of the Matter: Frank Sinatra Sings About Love

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The Heart of the Matter: Frank Sinatra Sings About Love

Manufacturer: EMI- Capitol Music Special Markets
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Classic Vocalists | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music

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Stepping Out of a Dream

ASIN: B0008FUU5M

Product Description

This is a Starbucks special limited edition cd. This cd has 13 tracks. A few tracks are Blue Moon, Blues in the Night, Ebb Tide, and In The Wee Small Hours of the Morning.

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A century of British art songs to delight those who love them

English Song

Manufacturer: Naxos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Compilations | Classical | Styles | Music

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A Treasury of English Song
Favorite English Songs
Silent Noon
Songs by Roger Quilter
Bryn Terfel - The Vagabond & other songs by Vaughan Williams, Butterworth, Finzi & Ireland

ASIN: B0002JEG6I
Release Date: 2005-03-22

Tracks:

A Soft Day - Bernadette Greevy
Irish Skies - Bernadette Greevy
Cherry Ripe - Janice Watson
Mustard And Cress - Neal Davies
The Lily Of A Day - Janice Watson
Henry King - Neal Davies
Fain Would I Change That Note - Graham Johnson
In Summer-Time On Bredon - Christopher Maltman
The Lads In Their Hundreds - Christopher Maltman
Among The Rocks - Graham Johnson
It Was A Lover And His Lass - Anthony Rolfe Johnson
The Water Mill - Anthony Rolfe Johnson
On Wenlock Edge - Anthony Rolfe Johnson
The Call - Graham Johnson
Silent Noon - Graham Johnson
Now In These Fairylands - Philip Langridge
The Dream-City - Philip Langridge
Margrete's Cradle Song - Susan Gritton
The Heart Worships - Christopher Maltman
Take, O Those Lips Away - Anthony Rolfe Johnson
Now Sleeps The Crimson Petal - Graham Johnson
Love Calls Through The Summer Night - Anthony Rolfe Johnson
I Will Go With My Father A-Ploughing - Graham Johnson
The Rio Grande (Capstan Shanty) - Ian Partridge
Theodore, Or The Pirate King - Ian Partridge
A Long Time Ago (Hilliard's Shanty) - Ian Partridge
Oh Dear, What Can The Matter Be? - Bernadette Greevy

Tracks:

The Grenadier - Richard Edgar-Wilson
The Young Lover - Richard Edgar-Wilson
Betty And Johnny - Richard Edgar-Wilson
Rise Up And Reach The Stars - Richard Edgar-Wilson
The Bells - Nik Hancock-Child
Ann's Cradle Song - Nik Hancock-Child
As I Lay In The Early Sun - Nik Hancock-Child
The Cherry Tree - Nik Hancock-Child
Dusk - Nik Hancock-Child
Peter Warlock's Fancy - John Constable
The Frostbound Wood - John Constable
Chopcherry - John Constable
A Sad Song - John Constable
Rutterkin - John Constable
Bethlehem Down - John Constable
Wapping Old Stairs - Felicity Lott
Long Steel Grass - Martyn Hill
Tango-Pasodoble - Martyn Hill
Popular Song - Martyn Hill
Beatriz's Song - Felicity Lott
Lay Your Sleeping Head, My Love - Philip Langridge
Early One Morning - Felicity Lott
The Foggy, Foggy View - Philip Langridge
Now The Leaves Are Falling Fast - Philip Langridge
Tell Me The Truth About Love - Della Jones
The Choirmaster's Burial - Philip Langridge

Customer Reviews:

A century of British art songs to delight those who love them.......2006-06-26

These 53 songs have been collected by Naxos from their extensive acquisitions from Collins Classics, and perhaps other British sources now out of business. There's a steady cottage industry, year after year, producing the typical English art song, which is usually based on folk songs, but even in more modern idioms is profuondly conservative and nostaligic. Half these songs, not to mention half the composers, are totally unknown to American audiences, but the familiar names of Vaughan Williams and Britten represent high quality, and the lesser lights, such as Warlock and Quilter, are mainstays in this repertoire.

I'd challenge all but the most addicted listener to make it through more than ten songs at a sitting, and many of these pieces are tepid, offering comfort rather than inspiration. The singers are among the best, but Graham Johnson and Steuart Beford, who do most of the accompaniments, are lackluster. I know that won't be a popular comment, yet if you compare any of these songs with rendiitons done by Janet Baker, John Shirley-quirk, and most recently Bryn Terfel and Ian Bostridge, you immediately notice how much more intensity and drama is pesent than htis colleciton reveals.

Red Shoes: Music From the Films of Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger, 1941-1951

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Red Shoes: Music From the Films of Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger, 1941-1951

Manufacturer: Cd41 (UK)
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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Movie Scores | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

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The Red Shoes - Criterion Collection
Snakes & Arrows

ASIN: B000068PVB
Release Date: 2007-03-20

Tracks:

Archers Ident
49th Parallel: Prelude
49th Parallel: Epilogue
Matter of Life and Death: Prelude/This Is the Universe
Matter of Life and Death: The Waiting Room/Washed Ashore
Matter of Life and Death: Prelude/Stairway to Heaven
Airman's Letter to His Mother: Narrative by Sir John Gielgud
Life and Death of Colonel Blimp: Prelude
Life and Death of Colonel Blimp: War Starts at Midnight
Life and Death of Colonel Blimp: Commando Patrol
Canterbury Tales: Prelude
Canterbury Tales: Toccata and Fugue in D Minor
Red Shoes: Prelude
Red Shoes: Ballet Music
Black Narcissus: Prologue
Black Narcissus: Composed Sequence
Gone to Earth: Prelude
Gone to Earth: The Tryst
Gone to Earth: The Hunt
Small Back Room: Composed Sequence
Small Back Room: Epilogue
Tales of Hoffman: Orchestral Tuning

Album Description

22 tracks. THE RED SHOES is a 74 minute collection of rare original soundtrack recordings from the classic films of Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger (The Archers), made between 1941 and 1951. Those featured include: 49th Parallel (1941) Ralph Vaughn Williams (aka The Invaders) Stairway to Heaven (1946) Allan Gray (aka A Matter of Life & Death) The Life & Death of Col Blimp (1943) Allan Gray A Canterbury Tale (1944) Allan Gray / JS Bach Black Narcissus (1947) Brian Easdale The Red Shoes (1948) Brian Easdale Gone to Earth (1950) Brian Easdale (aka The Wild Heart) The Small Back Room (1949) Brian Easdale Tales of Hoffman (1951) Jacques Offenbach. As well as digitally restored original soundtrack music by the undervalued Gray and Easdale, this carefully researched CD also features a number of rare associated recordings, including John Gielgud's reading of An Airman's Letter to his Mother (1941), the lively quickstep Commando Patrol from Col. Blimp and A Canterbury Tale, and a superlative rendering of Bach's Toccata and Fugue in D Minor, recorded by Albert Schweitzer in London in 1935, also featured in A Canterbury Tale. The booklet features detailed notes on the films and their accompanying scores, and well as biographies of Allan Gray and Brian Easdale. The CD is a must for all with an interest in vintage film soundtracks and British light/orchestral music, as well as the dazzling vision of Michael Powell and his musical collaborators.

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Another voice
Awful. Unlistenable. Emaciated, pale and emotionless.
I have to agree to disagree
The music lives
Another View

Stan Rogers: A Matter of Heart
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Fogarty's Cove
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Between the Breaks...Live!
From Coffee House To Concert Hall
For the Family
Home in Halifax
Northwest Passage

ASIN: B00004YL8F
Release Date: 2007-01-08

Tracks:

Rise Again/Fogarty's Cove
White Squall
Bluenose
Acadian Saturday Night
The House Of Orange
Northwest Passage
The Idiot
Flying
Song Of The Candle
MacDonnell On The Heights
Lock-Keeper
Night Guard
Workin' Joe
Try Like The Devil
Lies/Field Behind The Plow
Last Watch
NWP Reprise/A Matter Of Heart
The Mary Ellen Carter

Customer Reviews:

Another voice.......2006-09-11

I had the privilege of seeing the actual performance by these artists onstage in Toronto in 2000. They were each wonderful in their own way and brought a standing ovation - perhaps because they were all Stan Rogers fans but also for the sheer appreaciation that someone was singing his music. We all know there will never be another Stan Rogers just like there will never be another Nat King Cole, Frank Sinatra, etc. but to let that music die just because the voice isn't the same would be shameful. Every time I listen to this CD, I hear the stories Stan felt and wrote and by the time we get to Rise Again, I have the same feeling as the first time I ever heard it. May daughter now wants her own copy and I'm grateful Amazon has it.

Awful. Unlistenable. Emaciated, pale and emotionless........2002-08-21

I've also been a fan of Stan Rogers for at least 20 years. I had high hopes for a fresh interpretation of some of his best works. This isn't it.

All the vocalists combined can't match Stan's own range. The opening bar of the Mary Ellen Carter (1st song) gave me high hopes for the rest of the CD, but I was BITTERLY disappointed.

The idea of a mediocre tenor singing Northwest Passage would be laughable. But that's what they did here. They absolutely butchered his music.

This entire album completely lacked the emotion and passion that Stan brought to his music. It was a cheap, hollow imitation that wouldn't have stood on it's own merits in the absence of Stan, but knowing (and loving) his music made it even worse.

It was the equivalent of expecting the finest Filet Mignon and getting a cold, uncooked hot dog instead. Yecch.

I have to agree to disagree.......2002-03-24

I have been a Stan Rogers fan for over twenty years and I have all of his released works. As was said before, if the selling of this CD helps Stan's family, I can see the value. But despite their apparent passion, these performances pale before the beautiful rich tones that were Stan's. These voices may intend to honor the man and his music, but instead serve only to remind us what we have lost. Listening to these renditions brought tears to my eyes as I remembered the excuisite voice that was Stan Rogers.

The music lives.......2001-08-15

These people have done a service by continuing to present Stan Rogers' music. To those who criticize because it isn't Stan Rogers performing, you should consider that his music is great standing alone and it needs to be performed by contemporary artists. This album has some marvelous work. It can't be Stan because Stan is (sadly) no longer here; but I applaud artists doing their own interpretations and keeping Stan's music alive.

Another View.......2001-03-31

Sometime during the middle '70s I ducked into a Greenwich Village coffeehouse mainly to get in out of the wind, rain and cold. I left a few hours later humming "Barrett's Privateers" and feeling oh so fortunate to have encountered the artistry of Stan Rogers. His death, devastating to Canadians, was truly a loss to all of us who treasure great singing and songwriting. To say that this collection is a pale imitation of Stan's own work is a statement of the obvious. He was truly unique. That being said, I found this collection enjoyable for several reasons. The songs themselves are still great songs! (Why they didn't include "Barrett's Privateers" is beyond me, and "White Squall" needs a man's voice, but that's why it gets a four instead of a five-star rating.) Also, many of Stan's songs are well-served by group performances, as evidenced by "Northwest Passage" and "Lock-Keeper". If the performers aren't in Stan's league, it's not because they don't care about the material. Their passion for the music and it's content (a heavy dose of Canadian history, custom and geography) is there for those who have ears to hear. If you are already a fan, you risk being disappointed, though not necessarily. If you do not know this music, then by all means give this a listen. Then go out and buy "Home in Halifax", or one of the other originals. You won't regret it.

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Heart of the Matter
Kenny Rogers
Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Country | Styles | Music

Contemporary | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music

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I Prefer the Moonlight
Eyes That See in the Dark

ASIN: B000008K5Z
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

I Don't Wanna Have to Worry
Heart of the Matter
You Made Me Feel Love
Morning Desire
Don't Look in My Eyes
Best of Me
Tomb of the Unknown Love
People in Love
I Can't Believe Your Eyes
Our Perfect Song

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The Heart Of Country Music

Heart of the Matter
Kenny Rogers
Manufacturer: Castle Music UK
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Country | Styles | Music

General | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music

General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music

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They Don't Make Them Like They Used To
I Prefer the Moonlight
What About Me?
Eyes That See in the Dark
Something Inside So Strong

ASIN: B000089APC
Release Date: 2003-06-23

Tracks:

I Don't Wanna Have to Worry
Heart of the Matter
You Made Me Feel Love
Morning Desire
Don't Look in My Eyes
Best of Me
Tomb of the Unknown Love
People in Love
I Can't Believe Your Eyes
Our Perfect Song

Album Description

2003 reissue of 1984 album that's out-of-print domestically. Ten tracks, produced by George Martin, including two country #1s. Castle.

Album Details

Digitally Remastered Edition of his 1985 Album, Produced by the Legendary Sir George Martin (The Beatles). The Parade of Talented Musicians Like Stanley Jordan, David Foster, Anne Dudley, Nathan East, Steve Lukather, Richard Marx, Herb Pedersen, Fred Tackett and Many More Reads Like a Who's who of Studio Aces of the Time. But Rogers Had Almost Singlehandedly Moved Country Music in a Soulful Direction (With his Monumental "Share Your Love" Album, Recorded in Collaboration with Lionel Richie) and his Switch to the RCA Label at the Time Proved Detrimental, Since They Just Didn't Quite Know How to Market Him. "Morning Desire" was Only a Minor Hit, but Longtime Fans Will Find Plenty Else Here to Revel in Hindsight.

Customer Reviews:

The Heart Of Country Music.......2005-03-07

In the mid-1980s despite differences with the management at RCA records, Kenny Rogers was determined to carry on his success. His two previous albums "Eyes That See In The Dark" and "What about me?" had enjoyed lengthy runs on the charts.

Rogers had always been diverse (As well as Country he had cut Jazz, Pop, Rock and had also collaborated with R&B artists) and that's why it was a good pairing when he asked George Martin to produce this album (Martin, of course, the man who had-amoung other things-produced all the Beatles records in the 1960s).

"Tomb Of The Unknown Love" is just a classic country song, about a man who faces death after he killed his loved one who cheated on him. The song became a #1 single.

"I don't want to have to worry" (the albums opening track) on the other hand is a uptempo pop song that shows Rogers can rock with the best of them.

Love ballads have played no small part in Rogers lengthy career and it's no suprise there are several here. "Heart of the matter", "Don't Look In My Eyes" and "The Best Of Me" (later covered by Cliff Richard some years later) all deal with love from different point of views and when you hear these you will no doubt understand why Kenny has been called "The King Of Love Songs."

"Morning Desire" is similar to Kenny's 1970's hit "Something's Burning" (although it is less rock and more ballad) but that was intentional (Kenny later said it was written as a cross between "Something's Burning" and Bruce Springsteen's "I'm On Fire").

The remaining cuts on this album "You made me feel love", "People In Love", "you Made Me Feel Love" and the final cut "I Can't Believe Your Eyes" are all very upbeat and sung with passion in the unique Kenny Rogers style that has ensured Rogers has remained a vital figure in popular music for over 40 years now.

My Favourite of all the six albums Kenny recorded for RCA is 1984's "What About Me?", but this is still up there for great music.

10 wonderful songs from one of Country music's finest performers.