Renaissance [Import]

Track Listings

1. Angel [Metro Mix Album Version]

2. Cinderella

3. Tender Heart

4. Dance the Night Away

5. Tonight

6. How Long

7. Don't Ever Go Away

8. Wasted Time

9. Piece of My Heart

10. It May Be the Water

11. Here Is My Heart

12. Don't Stop the Music

13. Angel [Boogieman Remix, Extended]

Editorial Reviews
Product Description
Sixth album for the former Commodore and one of the most successful solo artists of the early '80s. Includes the first single 'Angel' (Metro Mix Album Version). Special edition includes the bonus track 'Just Can't Say Goodbye'. Currently there is no domestic scheduled. 2000 release. Standard jewel case.

Renaissance,Lionel Richie,Polygram Int'l,Adult Contemporary,Pop,R&B,Rock/Pop,Urban

Tracks:

Libera nos. I & II (John Sheppard)
Salva nos, Domine (plainchant)
Christe, qui lux es et dies (William Byrd)
In pace in idipsum (John Sheppard)
In manus tuas (Thomas Tallis)
Jesu, salvator saeculi, verbum (John Sheppard)
In manus tuas I (John Sheppard)
In manus tuas II (John Sheppard)
Miserere mihi, Domine (plainchant)
Miserere nostri, Domine (Thomas Tallis0
Misere mihi, Domine (William Byrd)
In pace in idipsum (Thomas Tallis)
Christe, qui lux es et dies (Robert White)
Veni, Domine (plainchant)
Nunc dimittis Gradulia I (William Byrd)
Te lucis ante terminum festal (Thomas Tallis)
Gaude, virgo mater Christi (Hugh Aston)

From the label:

On its spectacular debut recording, the exciting young British vocal group stile antico presents a program of English Renaissance music associated with the office of Compline, the service that ends the monastic liturgical day. A who's-who of 16th-century British composers--including Thomas Tallis, William Byrd, and John Sheppard--is represented here by hymns, antiphons, responsories, motets, and psalms: the occasion not only for music of intimacy, elegance, and reflection, but for flights of breathtaking canonic and contrapuntal invention and harmonic daring.

Stile Antico is an ensemble of young British singers, fast gaining recognition as one of the most original and exciting new voices in its field. In 2005 the group won the inaugural Audience Prize at the Early Music Network International Young Artists' Competition, drawing critical praise for its `wonderfully vivid singing' and `perfectly focused and ideally balanced voices.' Since this success, Stile Antico has appeared throughout the UK, including at the City of London, Lake District Summer Music and Beverley and East Riding Festivals; engagements for 2007 include the York Early Music Festival. The group has also collaborated with Sting on tour in his project Songs from the Labyrinth, performing lute songs by John Dowland.

Customer Reviews:

So very beautiful!.......2007-07-11

I'm not a student of fine music and had no idea what a "compline" was but I bought this CD after hearing a review on NPR.
I can't tell you how much I love this!
It is pure and moving; I can turn off my thinking and let my mind soak in the beauty.
I regret that it is such a high-class work, as I fear that many will miss it, expecting it to be over their heads. I hope that more of my fellow low-brows will somehow stumble upon it and have a chance to experience these most-excellent moments.

Gorgeous.......2007-03-05

The English Tudor choral composers such as Byrd and Tallis composed some glorious music. Sit and listen in a darkened room and you will be transported back to another time and place. Wonderfully atmospheric and moving. The masters of this repertoire are Peter Phillips's Tallis Scholars, but this CD makes me think that they have some serious competition.

Great Premiere from Stile Antico!.......2007-02-27

I got an e-mail from amazon recently to the effect of, "We've noticed that you've rated so-and-so, so we thought you'd be interested in the new release Music for Compline." I usually ignore such e-mails, but I thought I'd check it out. I was intrigued by the audio samples and so downloaded the album on iTunes.

I don't know how a group of young upstarts from Britain without a conductor were able to produce such a sound, but they did. "Music for Compline" focuses on music from composers in England during the transition from Catholicism to Protestantism- Byrd, Sheppard, Tallis, etc.- and as the title implies, it's music that would have been used during a compline service at the time. Compline, for those of you not familiar with the Liturgy of the Hours, is the last prayer service in the liturgical day. As such, the music is serene, contemplative, and prayerful.

The way Stile Antico has gelled as a group is amazing, especially considering they have no conductor. (Although they surely have at least a de-facto rehearsal leader) Their sound is clear and beautiful, and they display exquisite musicianship without being overly technical or icy. They are able to share their fresh (though informed) perspectives on early music with each other to create an organic sound, so not having a conductor actually turns out to be an asset for these young musicians.

Fans of the Tallis Scholars will love this CD. Arguably, Stile Antico is better than the Tallis Scholars in some ways. To elaborate, the Tallis Scholars, as good as they are, can come across as technical and icy, whereas Stile Antico never does, at least not to my ears. On the contrary, they have a warm, authentic sound. Not that I have anything against the Tallis Scholars.

In conclusion, for everyone who loves sacred choral music, or beautiful music in general, "Music for Compline" is a must-have. The musical serenity will be a refuge from stress, and will uplift your spirits.

Music for Compline.......2007-02-05

One is somewhat spoilt for choice these days when it comes to recordings of specialist 'early music' vocal ensembles. In Britain alone, 'brand' names such as 'The Sixteen' and 'The Tallis Scholars', however different their respective approach, have become equally synonymous with excellence in ensemble, intonation, balance and blend. On this basis alone, one might be forgiven for mistaking this CD for another release from one of these fine, long-established choirs. However, this debut recording from 'Stile Antico' has something rather distinctive and individual to offer the listener. Working as a vocal consort without conductor, these are performances born out of an internal commitment and universal understanding within the group, together with an obvious love for this repertoire which they perform so admirably. It is deeply refreshing, in a professional environment where 'time is money', to hear an ensemble who have so noticeably spent a great deal of time 'living' with the music, no doubt both as individuals and collectively as a group. This crucial element of music-making, so often over-looked, is perhaps above all what makes this recording stand out. In fairness, the result is not necessarily superior to that of a conducted ensemble, where a different style of direction in the performances can be attained. But whatever one's preferences - 'Stile Antico' have certainly achieved a winning combination - communicative performances which are simultaneously meditative and emotionally uplifting.

Impeccable ensemble is evident throughout the disc, and this is especially impressive when accomplished within various well-judged slow tempi. Highlights in this regard include a wonderfully ethereal and sonorous performance of Tallis' rarely heard seven-part 'Miserere nostri', and Sheppard's intoxicating 'Libera nos I & II' whose marvellous longing dissonances are given just the right amount of time to register. Byrd's 'Miserere mihi' also receives a fine performance, and the same composer's exquisite homophonic setting of 'Christe lux es et dies' serves to demonstrate these singers' aptitude for naturally shaped phrasing and beautifully paced cadences.

The programming is cohesive throughout, combining familiar, celebrated settings with some rare gems, notably Hugh Aston's giant antiphon 'Gaude, virgo mater Christi', of which this is the first recording made available on CD.

Congratulations are also due to Harmonia Mundi for their superb recording quality, which captures splendidly not only the clarity of the voices, but also the magnificent acoustics of All Hallow's, Gospel Oak. Beautiful packaging together with intelligent, informative programme notes completes this excellent debut release.

Songs from the Labyrinth (Music by John Dowland)

Average customer rating:

great CD
Very disappointing
*sigh*
Elizabethan Music
Vibe shift

Songs from the Labyrinth (Music by John Dowland)

Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Not Too Late
An Ancient Muse
Wintersong
James Taylor at Christmas
Fields of Gold: The Best of Sting 1984-1994

ASIN: B000HXDESU
Release Date: 2006-10-10

Tracks:

Walsingham
Can she excuse my wrongs?
Ryght honorable: as I have bin most bounde unto your honor
Flow my tears
Have you seen the bright lily grow
Then in time passing on Mr. Johnson died
The Most High and Mighty Christianus the Fourth, King of Denmark
The lowest trees have tops
And accordinge as I desired ther cam a letter
Fine knacks for ladies
From thenc I went to the Landgrave of Hessen
Fantasy
Come, heavy sleep
Forlorn Hope Fancy
And from thence I had great desire to see Italy
Come again
Wilt thou unkind thus reave me
After my departure I caled to mynde our conference
Weep you no more, sad fountains
My Lord Willoughbys Welcome Home
Clear or cloudy
Men say that the Kinge of Spain is making gret preparation
In darkness let me dwell

Amazon.com

In choosing to cover the music of John Dowland (1563-1626), who is known as the "melancholy madrigalist" from his output of cheerful ditties like "Flow My Tears," Police bandleader Sting has entered into a whole new realm of austere eeriness. Originally inspired by the gift of a lute, the rock superstar and activist sings the songs, deliciously sweet and tender or spirited by turn, accompanying himself, with Edin Karamazov sitting on lute and archlute. For listeners accustomed to hearing material of this period interpreted by rigorously trained early music stylists, especially countertenors and the like, Sting's sometimes tight-jawed, chest-heavy vocals may seem amateurish. It's undeniable that in four-part harmonies, the singer, tightly overdubbed, comes across like a combination of the Swingle Singers and Queen (meaning Freddy Mercury and crew, NOT the first Elizabeth). But it's important to remember that music of this period was routinely heard as a casual diversion in private homes, even more often than at Court. It was considered a crucial social skill to be able to join in with an adequate degree of skill, but not everyone was able to negotiate the perilous melodic twists and turns typical of the era's music. With this in mind, the overall effect is of a candle-lit, postprandial entertainment in the home of an English gentleman. Muttered readings from Dowland's letters and brief snippets of sampled birdsong aside, it is a courageous effort, displaying heartfelt admiration for the composer and a considerable degree of earnest charm. --Christina Roden

Album Description

StingÂ's Songs From The Labyrinth is an album of 17th century music composed by John Dowland and performed on the lute, an ancient acoustic guitar. After being given a lute nearly two years ago as a gift, Sting became fascinated and immersed himself with the instrument and the history of lute music. Reminded of his almost 25 year long enthrallment with the works of John Dowland, the Elizabethan composer who wrote songs for the lute, Sting has recorded a new album of vocal and lute music. All songs were composed by Dowland in the 17th century, but have been given new life in these fresh new recordings by Sting. Sting not only sings all the songs (accompanied by leading lutenist Edin Karamasov, who appears on two Andreas Scholl albums), but also plays lute on two instrumental duets with Edin and reads short extracts from a fascinating autobiographical letter by Dowland. Sting has also written a brilliant account of the album's genesis, along with notes on the individual tracks, which serves as the CD booklet.

Customer Reviews:

great CD.......2007-07-23

As usual, this is a great STING's cd. Wonderful music and interpretation. Its amazin these songs were written on the 16 century.
I will completely recomend anyone this CD.

Very disappointing.......2007-07-19

As we all know, the music of John Dowland is lovely. When played by Paul Odette or Julian Bream it is exquisite. However, this production is almost depressing. Sting's gravelly voice finally grated on me and I probably won't play this again. The lute performance is mediocre also. The best song is that which they use to promote the album. Pass on this one.

*sigh*.......2007-07-16

I am a lutenist myself, who had experience as both a rock guitarist and a classically trained clarinetist before also picking up the lute. I have a great love for Dowland that comes from years of playing his songs myself as well as hearing great musicians (like Paul O'Dette) play them. And this CD makes me sad.

In a way, it doesn't surprise me that Sting would do this. For years now he's been trying to gain cred in the classical music world (I have a 1988 recording of him doing Stravinsky's A Soldier Tale that delighted me when I was 16 and musically ignorant, but now makes my eyes roll into the back of my head). What upsets me is he had to do something that's initimately important to me as a musician. The is problem is that when it comes this kind of music, as others have said, he IS an amatuer, and all his heavy-handed, juvenile earnesty and clumsy, misplaced intensity just drains out all the joy I would normally experience from these songs. Moreover, he's voice isn't merely "untrained" - it's *shot* from years of strain caused by bad "rock" vocal technique. It's just pitiful to listen to in such an exposed context. If you think this is how these songs ought to be intrepreted, you're sadly mistaken.

There are people who would call Sting a "pop genius, " laud him and hand him all sort of impressive looking awards and honors, but this is the music of a real genius, someone who knew not just how to write lyrics that hit home with his audience, but as how to compose songs with unparallel grace, form and sophistication in an idiosyncratic style that bridged convention and innovation. And Sting simply cannot do Dowland's music justice. He just doesn't have the chops or the insight. It's great he's supposedly "studied" this music and that he wrote lengthy, flowery liner notes, but did he really need to record this CD for any reason that his own self-satisfaction? It's far too obvious he hasn't done the same level of groundwork of countless Early Music musicians who don't do this a hobby or avocation from political causes or high-profile celebrity, but as their sole passion. Why couldn't he simply support those musicians, without trying to grab some spotlight for himself? Having a decent lutenist as a sidekick just isn't enough to pull him up from his amatuerly, self-important bog, either. Frankly, he just doesn't get it, and at this stage, I don't think he will.

Early music lovers don't need someone like Sting to bring this music to us - we've been doing just fine without him because we have so many other, really wonderful musicians around to keep this music alive. Someone else recommended Nigel Rogers and Paul O'Dette, and I would gladly recommend them over this celebrity-fuel nonsense as well. Yes these are both musicians with academic backgrounda, but that doesn't mean they are academic musicians - far from it. They just have to hold down teaching positions and do master classes because they don't have a pop career to play the bills. Musicially and professionally, they're what Early Music musicians ought to be - dedicated, educated, passionate and yet they don't have any need to take themselves this deathly seriously.

Elizabethan Music.......2007-07-12

This is the audio component of an hour long video made by Sting on the work of Elizabethan composer John Dowland. (The video does adds greatly to the value as it places the music against the background and age (16th C) for which it was written.) Sting's voice is light tenor and right for these poems set to music about everlasting human concerns that persist to our day. But you'll not see those wonderful lutes that accompany the words, so complex to play with a beauty of sound not heard today. Between his music Sting gives an excellent spoken commentary to complete an attractive presentation of esoteric classical music with a modern undertone.

Vibe shift.......2007-07-10

Why bother? Still would like to say i love the 'shift' it takes to get into this music and how i (and my home) feel when i've enter this rather rarified realm of listening.

Average customer rating:

Sound Invention
Powerful, ecumenical, moving.

And On Earth Peace: A Chanticleer Mass

Manufacturer: Warner Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

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How Sweet the Sound: Spirituals & Traditional Gospel Music
Wondrous Love: A World Folk Song Collection
Sound in Spirit
Jubilation
Music for Compline

ASIN: B000OCY6BS
Release Date: 2007-05-08

Tracks:

Da pacem Dominae
Deus, Deus meus, respice in me -- Andrea Gabrieli
Da pacem Domine -- Carlo Gesualdo
Kyrie -- Douglas J. Cuomo
Gloria (Everywhere) -- Kamran Ince
vos omnes -- Carlo Gesualdo
Aestimatus sum cum descendentibus -- Carlo Gesualdo
Credo/Ani Ma'amin -- Shulamit Ran
Peccantem me quotidian -- Carlo Gesualdo
Ravenna Sanctus -- Ivan Moody
salutaris hostia -- Andrea Gabrieli
Agnus Dei -- Michael McGlynn
Da pacem Domine
Da pacem Domine -- Giles Binchois
Da pacem Domine -- Arvo Part

Amazon.com

This mass, commissioned and performed by the superb 12-man American group Chanticleer, begins and ends with Plainsong, and is comprised of five movements by five different composers interspersed with shorter pieces by Carlo and Andrea Gabrieli and Carlo Gesualdo. Douglas J. Cuomo's Kyrie features the extreme ends of the men's vocal ranges and plays plainsong against tonal clusters; the Turkish composer Kamran Ince's Gloria is sung to a Sufi text and radiates peace; Shulamit Ran's Credo, in her native Hebrew and English, begins in a stunning martial outburst about the belief in one God and uses texts that relate to the Holocaust (occasionally spoken) to make her dramatic points; London-born Ivan Moody contributes a ravishing, medieval-tinged Sanctus, as ethereally lovely - and at points as stunningly wild - as his compositions for Trio Mediaeval; and the Irish composer Michael McGlynn's Agnus Dei begins as a solo in Gaelic, which is then underpinned with a drone in the darker voices and it ends, with grace, at a whisper. Perhaps the boldest music here is the Gesualdo, whose bizarre harmonies and discordances still can shock and awe, but the Chanticleer Mass, while not an overwhelming new work, is nonetheless, fascinating, and, as one might imagine, beautifully performed. --Robert Levine

Album Description

With its seamless blend of twelve male voices, ranging from countertenor to bass, the San Francisco-based ensemble Chanticleer, celebrates the life of their foudner Louis I. Botto on the 10th anniversary of his death. Five composers create a mass that evolves organically, as if written by one hand and the ensemble brings it to life.

Customer Reviews:

Sound Invention.......2007-07-03

As always, Chanticleer are the best mens chorus around today. They seem to be spending much of their time on experimenting with sound and doing it very well. This recording is more of that experimentation, so if you are looking for the usual gregorian chant, this is not what you want, but it is Chanticleer at their experimental best.

Powerful, ecumenical, moving........2007-06-02

After reading a positive article in the Wall Street Journal in May 2007 I was particularly interested in hearing this Mass, and didn't know Chanticleer had recorded it until a friend offered to lend me her brand-new copy after a three-for-two spending spree at the local brick&mortar bookstore.

This is an awesome recording, and I use this adjective without hesitation even though it's over-used and teen-speak. I'm surprised at the number of used copies available - perhaps buyers think that this is a warm & meditative piece and reject it when they discover it's not. It is most definitely not meditative - but it is instead a powerful discourse with God from Christian, Jewish and Muslim traditions. The liturgical setting unites it with traditional Mass settings and the music and text raise 21st-century - but also eternal - questions of faith, doubts - and hope. Five stars - no hesitation.

The Journey & The Labyrinth: The Music of John Dowland (DVD & CD)

Average customer rating:

Surprisingly enjoyable....
The Journey & The Labyrinth
To buy or not to buy, that is the question
Enchanting, visually stunning
The Journey & The Labyrinth: ---A real Journey

The Journey & The Labyrinth: The Music of John Dowland (DVD & CD)

Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Songs from the Labyrinth (Music by John Dowland)
In Perugia
My Funny Valentine: Sting at the Movies
The Police - Everyone Stares: The Police Inside Out
Fields of Gold: The Best of Sting 1984-1994

ASIN: B000MGBTHA
Release Date: 2007-02-13

Tracks:

Flow My Tears (Lachrimae)
The Lowest Trees Have Tops
Fantasy
Come Again
Have You Seen The Bright Lilly Grow
In Darkness Let Me Dwell
Hell Hound On My Trail
Message In A Bottle

Tracks:

'Come Again'
Project Origin
'Can She Excuse My Wrongs'
The Lute And The Labyrinth
'The Lowest Trees Have Tops'
'Flow My Tears'
Dowland's Exile
'Clear Or Cloudy'
Political Intrigue
'Have You Seen The Bright Lily Grow'
'Weep You No More Sad Foutain'
'Le Rossignol'
Religion
Sting And The Lute
'Come, Heavy Sleep'
'In Darkness Let Me dwell'
Choir Rehersal
'Fine Knacks For Ladies'
'Can She Excuse My Wrongs'

Amazon.com

Recorded at St. Luke's Cathedral in London, The Journey and the Labyrinth continues Sting and lute player Edin Karamazov's exploration of the music of John Dowland. The bulk of this material first appeared on 2006's Songs from the Labyrinth. Performed live and placed in a setting concurrent with the life of the 16th-century composer, the songs feel tied to their origins in profound ways. The grand room's ambiance is made apparent with the reverberating applause at the close of each selection. The closing two numbers show how this 400-year-old music has aspects very much in sync with relatively contemporary works. Both Robert Johnson's "Hellhound on My Trail" and Sting's own Police hit "Message in a Bottle" utilize crisply delineated melodies and spare but robust accompaniment. A DVD is included in the set, as well. Elegantly produced, it not only offers the live performance featured on the CD, but also provides Sting's own thoughtfully articulated connections to this still vibrantly romantic music. --David Greenberger

Album Description

On the heels of his acclaimed recording, Songs from the Labyrinth, Sting furthers his fascination with Elizabethan composer John Dowland (1563-1626) on The Journey and the Labyrinth: The Music of John Dowland. This new DVD/CD package includes an extended version of Sting's first-ever PBS special from Thirteen/WNET New York's Great Performances (airing February 26th, 2007), as well as a live bonus audio CD.

Sting recently released the striking CD Songs from the Labyrinth, which introduced audiences to his passion for Dowland. With an astounding thirteen weeks and counting as Billboard's #1 Traditional Classical album, the record, called "vivid and romantic" by the Wall Street Journal, has resonated with Sting and Dowland aficionados alike. The album also captured the top spot on the classical charts not only in the U.S. but also in England, Canada, France and Germany.

The Journey and the Labyrinth: The Music of John Dowland, directed and produced by the Emmy-award winning team Jim Gable and Ann Kim of Graying & Balding, Inc., delves deeper into Sting's relationship with the sixteenth-century figure, who has captivated generations with his songs composed primarily for lute, which Sting tackles along with esteemed lutenist Edin Karamazov. Filmed appropriately at Lake House, Sting's 16-century manor house in Wiltshire, and in the ancient gardens of Il Palagio, his home in Italy, the DVD also features the performers before a live audience at St. Luke's Church in London.

Interspersed between performances of such timeless Dowland songs such as "Can She Excuse My Wrongs," "Come Again," and "Flow My Tears," are discussions with musicologists David Pinto and Anthony Rooley of the composer's place in music history and his relevance today, plus recitations by Sting from Dowland's personal correspondence.

In a rare live appearance performing Dowland's music, Sting and Karamazov's concert at St. Luke's Church in London was also captured as a live audio recording and serves as the bonus CD included in the package. Featuring selections from Labyrinth, the CD also contains the consummate hit "Message in a Bottle" arranged for lute, as well as a rendition of the Robert Johnson blues classic, "Hell Hound."

More Sting

Fields of Gold

The Dream of the Blue Turtles

Songs from the Labyrinth

Customer Reviews:

Surprisingly enjoyable...........2007-05-21

I have been a Sting/Police fan since my youth, and I have to admit - I was very skeptical when I first heard about this latest venture from Sting. After hearing some of the tracks, the disc began to grow on me. The DVD is the highlight here. Beautifully photographed, and intelligently produced. The performances in and around Sting's Tuscan villa are breathtaking. The live performances are nice as well. Very little was known about this John Dowland man, but he seems to have been quite the character. I'm glad I added this to my collection.

The Journey & The Labyrinth.......2007-05-13

The album was just fantastic! Very different from Sting's usual music. He should do more of it.

To buy or not to buy, that is the question.......2007-04-24

When I was younger, I went on a wine-appreciation course. The first thing I was told was: "Don't let snobs dictate your taste to you: if you like chilled red wine with fish, *drink* chilled red wine with fish!"

Over the years, I have found this to be good advice, and not just about wine.

70 years ago, Andrés Segovia played the Bach Chaconne for the first time in Paris. He said "I could measure my success by the rage of the violinists." But the guitarists didn't care. Nowadays Bach on the guitar is commonplace.

50 years ago, lutenists criticised Julian Bream for playing their instrument like a guitar. He said "It's my job to blow the dust off these things."

It always miffs insiders when an outsider comes along and brings their speciality to a new audience, even though they may publicly applaud him for doing so: it will be a lucky outsider who doesn't get stick for not doing things the "correct" way.

So the Amazon (and other) reviewers of "Songs from the Labyrinth" fall (for the most part) into two camps: Early Music buffs, and Sting fans. As I joined the Lute Society in 1973, and reviewed Early Music for several years, I suppose I must be considered to fall more into the former category than the latter.

But, it seems to me that all the discussion of "authenticity", impassioned and learnèd though it may be, is irrelevant. The only important questions are: Has the performer made a serious attempt to understand what's going on in the music? and Does he bring something fresh to it?

In Sting's case, the answer is clearly Yes to both. And that said, the only other thing of importance is whether you like the result.

I do like it, and I'm glad to see I'm not alone, even among us old fogeys. And with music samples and now video samples available on-line, you don't have to play guessing games to know whether you will too.

The DVD
======

Over and above the value of the music, the DVD is very well put together. There are songs, lute music, anecdotes and historical discussions, all skilfully and entertainly intercut, and each complete in itself but not so long that the attention of the newcomer will start to wander. You can see Edin trying not to laugh when Tony Rooley and David Pinto almost get into an argument. And the whole thing is visually gorgeous. My favourite bit is where Sting fissions into four and sings a quartet with himself, sitting around a table.

By the way, there are a couple of "in" jokes that may go over the heads of those new to this music:

Sting ribs Edin about giving him the hard part in the anonymous lute duet "Le Rossignol"; in fact, the two parts are virtually identical, one being an echo of the other, merely four bars "out of phase".

More subtle is the somewhat unexpected appearance of "Hellhound on my Trail", which is of course by the noted blues singer Robert Johnson murdered in 1938 (but somehow copyright 1990, it says here). Another Robert Johnson, also a lutenist (and son of that John Johnson whose vacated position Dowland failed to secure at the court of Elizabeth I), was one of Dowland's colleagues at the court of James I. He was the composer of "Have You Seen the Bright Lily Grow", so the DVD contains works by two different Robert Johnsons.

Lutenists will be interested to note that Edin Karamazov plays (right hand) thumb under, although Dowland himself switched in mid-life from thumb-under to thumb-over -- presumably for what seemed to him to be good reasons. He is clearly a fine player with a great deal of facility, but I feel obliged to say that his Dowland Fantasy (P. 6, for those that are interested) seems to me a bit of a mess. Don't take my word for it; you already know Anthony Rooley, and his version is on Renaissance Fantasias. It's also on disc 8 of his mammoth 12-disc set, with his wife (the famous singer Emma Kirkby) and The Consort of Musicke: Dowland -- The Collected Works. Here are some more versions for comparison:

Christopher Wilson: Rosa
Julian Bream: Lute Music from the Royal Courts of Europe
Jakob Lindberg: Dowland -- Complete Solo Lute Music

Where to go from here
================

The person who spearheaded the revival of interest in Dowland, and the lute in general, was Julian Bream. No one ever breathed more life into this music, and if you're new to the lute, you can't go wrong with his recordings, many of which are still available.

On the other hand, if Sting is your thing, Bream's Dowland songs with Sir Peter Pears are unlikely to be. Nevertheless, you can hear them on Heavenly Love, Earthly Joy.

Of Bream's successors, one of his personal favourites certainly seems to be Nigel North: you can read Sir Julian's glowing tribute on Nigel's website. Only two volumes of Dowland's music by Nigel have so far appeared, though: (Vol. 1) & (Vol. 2).

The complete lute music is available from Jakob Lindberg (mentioned above) and from Paul O'Dette (Complete Lute Works -- also as individual discs), two of my personal favourite players. If you liked "Le Rossignol", you will certainly enjoy them together on English Lute Duets.

The acknowledged authority on Dowland in her day was the late Diana Poulton. She is the author of the standard biography (Faber & Faber, ISBN 0-520-04687-0), and also editor of the Collected Lute Music (Faber Music, ISBN 0-571-10024-4).

The Lute
======

Lute sales have quadrupled, says the Lute Society. If you're thinking "well, I can play the guitar: how hard can the lute be?", think again. By all means take it up, but it's a *very* different instrument!

The British and American Lute Societies can both be found on line.

And now my 1,000 words are up. Good hunting!

Enchanting, visually stunning.......2007-04-18

It seems at first like Sting really stretched on this one, but if you're a dedicated fan, you'll see that his career has been leading here all along. Think of "St. Agnes and the Burning Train" on his "Soul Cages" CD. The four-hundred-year-old music of John Dowland is haunting, and Sting brings it to vibrant life with reverence and enthusiasm. Listen, and you'll be drawn into an older world that at times feels surprisingly familiar, a world of love with all it's faces, melencholy, religious persecution, and career ambition. The DVD was filmed at Sting's personal residences, and if you love atmosphere, it's all here. I recommend the DVD over the CD alone, because the images of Sting singing in those beautiful surroundings help overcome the cultural difference for those who have never heard music like this before. Also, you'll get to hear "Message in a bottle," arranged for the lute on this one, recorded on the companion CD.

The Journey & The Labyrinth: ---A real Journey.......2007-04-10

this was an awesome work. The music was great, and the documentary...really interesting.

if you love music or you are an artist, this is inspirational and entertaining.

this project was a wonderful surprise!!

Average customer rating:

Music for Compline [Hybrid SACD]

Manufacturer: Harmonia Mundi Fr.
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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

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

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

Classical | Imports | Stores | Music
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William Byrd: Laudibus in sanctis
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Music for Compline
Pilgrimage to Santiago
Combattimento (W/Dvd)

ASIN: B000LXSS5K
Release Date: 2007-02-13

From the label:

Working without a conductor, the members of Stile Antico rehearse and perform as chamber musicians, each contributing artistically to the musical result. Their repertoire ranges from the glorious legacy of the English Tudor composers to the works of the Flemish and Spanish schools and the music of the early Baroque. They are passionate about the need to communicate with their audiences, combining thoughtful programming with direct, expressive performances. They are also committed to developing their educational work, for which they have received generous funding from the National Lottery through Arts Council England.

Scheherazade & Other Stories
Average customer rating:

This does NOT have extra tracks... AND ...

Same quality as Turn of the Cards

great stuff

An aquired taste...

Not Rimsky-Korsakov's

Scheherazade & Other Stories
Renaissance
Manufacturer: Repertoire
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
General | Rock | Styles | Music
Progressive Rock | Progressive | Rock | Styles | Music
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Turn of the Cards

Ashes Are Burning

Novella

Live at Carnegie Hall

Song for All Seasons

ASIN: B0000073BG
Release Date: 1994-09-30

Tracks:

Trip to the Fair
Vultures Fly High
Ocean Gypsy
Song of Scheherazade: Fanfare/The Betrayal/The Sultan/Love ...

Album Description

1994 reissue on Repertoire of the prog icon's 1975 album forBTM, featuring their interpretation of Rimsky-Korsakov's 'Scheherazade' and a full orchestra complete with strings. Four tracks total. 'Songs Of Scheherazade' is a nine part suite.

Album Details

Scheherazade & Other Stories', the Alt/Prog Rockers Renaissance's 1975 Recording Originally Issued on the Btm Label, was Rereleased by Repertoire in 1994. Features an Interpretation of the Russian Composer Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov's Piece 'Scheherazade' plus Three Other Tracks. Includes a Biographical Essay About the Band by Mark Brennan. Recorded at the Legendary Abbey Road Studios.

Customer Reviews:

This does NOT have extra tracks... AND ..........2007-07-10

it seems Amazon isnt listing the 2006 remastered version (REP 5080)-german import-
and the sound is STUNNING.
It comes in a LP mini sleeve with a very nice insert.
No FBI logo, no UPC code on cover-they put love into this, one of 3 remasterings, and used a sticker on the outer cellophane wrapper instead.

Same quality as Turn of the Cards.......2007-06-05

I used to own 1001 Arabian Nights Vol. 1 during the 1990's and I lost the CD. I bought this one and Turn to replace it this year. If I am not mistaken, 1001 is a live CD and this is all studio music. I gave it a 4 star review because it seems like it belongs together with Turn on one set plus there are no extras or lyrics on the CD for the price. Still an all-time favorite for me, o my love.

great stuff.......2007-05-14

I have been looking for this cd for a while.
I had the lp but haven't listened to it for years

An aquired taste..........2007-03-13

Definately not an album for everyone, yet Annie Haslam's vocals and John Wetton's bass playing drive this LP into the higher echelon of 70's prog rock.
Suffering from a lack of a strong lead guitarist, this album is sometimes too heavily keyboard dominated, but the music is strong and Renaissance reaches it's goal of translating the premise of the Arabian Nights into modern times.

Not Rimsky-Korsakov's.......2006-11-01

I love Renaissance and I love this album. However, it has absolutely NOTHING to do with Rimsky-Korsakov's Scheherazade, despite what Amazon says in it's blurb.

Amazon really should not allow its ignorance of music to show, particularly on a music site! They should hire only informed people to review albums. The blurb trumpeting Renaissance's "interpretation of Rimsky-Korsakov" is frankly embarrassing to read.

RM's Scherazade is one of my favorite musical pieces and it shouldn't be confused with this album, no matter how good it is.

By the way, Rimsky's is far better. I'm not knocking Renaissance. It just is! I think Mick Dunford would agree. His music sounds heavily influenced by Russian composers.

Average customer rating:

ravishing...
Marvelous

Lighten our Darkness

Manufacturer: Collegium
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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

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

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

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

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Music for Compline
Allegri Miserere-Tenebrae
Morten Lauridsen: Nocturnes
William Byrd: Laudibus in sanctis
Pilgrimage to Santiago

ASIN: B000I2IS5Y
Release Date: 2006-10-17

Tracks:

In Pace
Libera Nos, Salva Nos
Justorum Animae
Pater Noster
O Lord, The Maker Of All Thing
Visita, Quaesumus Domine
Abendlied
O Christ Who Are The Light And Day
O Gladsome Light
Te Lucis Ante Terminum
Alma Redemptoris Mater
Ave Regina Caelorum
Regina Caeli Laetare
Salve Regina
Ave Maria
Bogoroditsye Dyevo
In Manus Tuas
In Manus Tuas

Tracks:

Opening Sentences And Responses
Psalm 91
Lesson: Come Unto Me
Respond: Into Thy Hands
Hymn: Before The Ending Of The Day
Keep Me As The Apple Of An Eye And Nunc Dimmittis
The Apostles' Creed And Lord's Prayer
Verscicles And Responses
Confession And Absolution
Responses And Collects
We Will Lay Us Down In Peace
Closing Responsies And Blessing

Customer Reviews:

ravishing..........2007-07-02

if this recording is not on your short list of things to hear/do, it should be.
the Byrd setting of "Oh Christ who art our light and day" is one of the loveliest things that I have ever heard.
I play it ever day at the same, appointed hour; so comforting, so beautifully well-sung.
the Compline setting on Disc 2 is pretty memorable, too.
a strong rec.

Marvelous.......2007-01-19

This is superb a capella singing. Each note, each syllable, is just right. John Rutter has a genius for writing and, as is the case here, performing religious choral music. The sound is gorgeous. Highest recommendation.

Average customer rating:

Real music lasts forever.
Renassaince at their best
Really great stuff
Can you believe I haven't heard it since the early 80s??
Classical-Rock Synthesis

Turn of the Cards
Renaissance
Manufacturer: Repertoire
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

Progressive Rock | Progressive | Rock | Styles | Music

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Scheherazade & Other Stories
Ashes Are Burning
Novella
Prologue
Song for All Seasons

ASIN: B000000132
Release Date: 1994-09-30

Tracks:

Running Hard
I Think Of You
Things I Don't Understand
Black Flame
Cold Is Being
Mother Russia

Album Description

1994 reissue on the Repertoire label of the prog icon's 1974album, originally released on the BTM label. Six tracks, including 'Running Hard' and 'Mother Russia'.

Customer Reviews:

Real music lasts forever........2007-06-04

Nothing new to say here. If you like prog rock with a touch of classical/magical/psychedelic and performed by real musicians and one incredible voiced lady, then this and Scheharazade need to be your next music purchases. Also, one of my favorite album covers of all time.
Thank you, Repertoire Records.
No outtakes or lyrics included.

Renassaince at their best.......2007-04-15

This cd has very special both music and lyrics . Annie really gets into the spiritual beauty that anyone who is familiar with Renassaince
has come to know . Parts of this music has brought tears of happiness and I would recommend it to those seeking magic music.
Not all of it is happy yet the parts that are , make it worth getting
I am a Renassaince fan from way back and would not be without this special piece of time

Really great stuff.......2007-02-04

It would be really hard to pick a best or favorite Renaissance CD as this one, Ashes Are Burning, Scheherazade, Prologue,and Novella are all so good. This one has "I Think of You" "Black Flame" "Things I don't Understand" "Mother Russia" "Running Hard" and "Cold is Being" all on the same CD. This is how the original LP was released back in the 1970's- there's no bonus tracks but it's just perfect as it is.

Can you believe I haven't heard it since the early 80s??.......2006-06-16

Those were the days my friends, end of the 70s and here in Venezuela I had a select group of prog listenting friends who shared all the insight on whatever we could lay our hands on to..

Renaissance- Annie Haslam's heavenly voice and the group that was able to combine prog with classical.. then life happened and was cut off from this world... Turn of the Cards is one of the finest and you can take it from me that I have not listed to the group in over 20 year

Classical-Rock Synthesis.......2006-06-02

This is the penultimate album from this ever-changing group of British musicians. Probably the most successful ensemble responsible for what I would consider as the best of the groups recording output in their brief history. This particular albums' (it was originally produced on vinyl) release was timed to be synced with their US Tour in 1974. Synonymous with the confusing musical direction of the times, their tour was the platform by which the launch of two notable seventies groups occurred; Kiss and 10cc. If there was ever a more divergent touring group, this was probably it. Interwoven strains of classically influenced music, tempered by harmonies and balance arranged by a carefully orchestrated rock ensemble which included traditional piano and contemporary synthesizer among others. All of this classical influence punctuated by lyrics that represent the very essence of the self-discovery of the times all done with a trace of nostalgic longing. This can be best heard in such tunes as "Running Hard," I Think of You," "Black Flame," and "Mother Russia." A delicate and intricate overlaying of vocal harmonies is also noteworthy in a number of compositions such as "Running Hard," and "Black Flame." I would consider this the one "must-have" recording to obtain out of their complete discography. Although, highly touted as another milestone recording from the group the album; "Sheherazade," was a dismal disappointment to me. If you only want to get one Renaissance recording to sample the best of their work, "Turn of The Cards," would be the obvious choice.

Average customer rating:

nice to remember
It is amazing!!!
The best Latin music I've heard
60's and the Latin Mass
Latinlover

Catholic Latin Classics

Manufacturer: Gia Publications
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Latin High Mass for Nostalgic Catholics
Salve Regina: Gregorian Chant
Treasured Hymns of the Church/ Catholic
Lost in Meditation: Meditative Gregorian Chants, Vol. 1
Gregorian Chants: The Best of the Benedictine Monks of St. Michael's

ASIN: B00004YRAW
Release Date: 2000-10-17

Tracks:

Ave Maria
O Salutaris Hostia
Panis Angelicus - John Eskola
Tantum Ergo
Ave Maria - Lorelei McDermott
O Sanctissima
O Bone Jesu
Ave Verum Corpus
Jubilate Deo
Confirma Hoc Deus
Adoro Te, O Panis
O Esca Viatorum
Veni, Jesu, Amor Mi
Emitte Spiritum Tuum
Adoremus In Aeternum - William Combs
Ave Maris Stella
Regina Caeli Laetare
Adoramus Te, Christe - The Cathedral Singers/Richard Proulx T
Tantum Ergo
Ecce Sacerdos Magnus

Customer Reviews:

nice to remember.......2007-01-04

Takes my husband & I back to the 60s........not a bad memory......

It is amazing!!!.......2006-11-10

I am very happy with my purchase. This item is better than what I was expecting. It was amazing how fast I received my order, I highly recommend it and hope that more people order it.

The best Latin music I've heard.......2006-04-18

The music in this CD is done beautifully! If features "Panis Angelicus", which if you like Charlotte Church singing it, you will like this- with a man's voice! There is no goofy revisions and modernization done to the music that I can tell. (I only say that in case some smart 15th century music history scholar comes around and disagrees!) It is very peaceful and will help anyone to calm down and give thanks to God. I think because the music is in Latin you will not grow tired of it as easily, and not to mention the fact that this music will continue to inspire you and put you in the presence of Christ better. OHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!! How I wish we were singing this sort of Latin music instead of "All our Welcome" and "Sing a new Church"! Let's keep the same Church Christ established thank you! And let's keep the Latin!!!!!!!

60's and the Latin Mass.......2006-03-15

I am one of those 60s people. We did not throw out the Latin mass. Why would we? We liked it. I served most of the high masses of the holidays. It was a small cabal of newly ordained priests and bishops in the Vatican II committees who threw it out. They wanted to be more like their Protestant bretheren; have the congregation face them instead of God. Read the book MISSING MARY while you are listening to this CD. They threw her out at the same time; no women in high places - their answer to the feminists of the 60s.

Latinlover.......2005-12-18

As a devoted lover of Catholic Latin hymns, I was disappointed at the enemic presentation of these beautiful hymns to God. I believe that the singers had the best of intentions but I would suggest to look for other versions of these wonderful songs to heaven.

Renaissance Presents the Masters Series, Pt. 9: Satoshi Tomiie

Average customer rating:

I left planet Earth.
Programmed to Perfection!!
Ellegant Music
Fancy a game of chess?

Renaissance Presents the Masters Series, Pt. 9: Satoshi Tomiie
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Renaissance Dance UK
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

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One + One

ASIN: B000N3TYKG
Release Date: 2007-03-19

Tracks:

Farra - Ripperton
The 16th Machine - Bot'ox Meets Showgirls
Air Moves - Photogenic
Don't Push It - Jimpster
Welcome To Zion - King Roc
Don't Be Lonely - Vernon
The Right Wing - Nick Chacona
Darkroomboot - Opus Ink
So That's What Happens - Herlihy & Torrance
Alienation 3/Beyond the Forest - King Britt
I Go Deep - Jim Rivers
Praise - Art Of Tones
Aura - Motorcitysoul

Tracks:

Ahh - Thugfucker
I Need - Marc Romboy Vs. Robert Owens
Serotone - Matt O'Brien
Lose Control - Lance De Sardi
It's Your Time - Planet Funk
Moods - Shlomi Aber
Celofans - Pabo Akaros
Flick It - D'Julz
Sleeping In the Bass Box - Guy Gerber
Crop Duster - Shlomi Aber
Driven - Estroe

Album Details

Satoshi Tomiie Returns to Renaissance for the Ninth Edition of "The Masters", Fresh from the Success of the 2006 Launch of the Sister 3D Series. He Delivers a Contemporary, Two Disc Ride Through Worldwide Dance Culture, Marrying Undiscovered Gems with Future Classics. Tomiie's Wide Crossover Appeal (Reflected in this Tracklist) Draws on his Soulful House Roots Through to the Contemporary Electronic Sound of Europe. Upfront Tracklist Draws on Some of the Hottest Production Talent from Round the World

Customer Reviews:

I left planet Earth........2007-07-25

This album takes you to a different world. Each track is perfectly mixed, carrying you on to the next. This music sends you on a ride, trust me. For me, the album really picked up at "Welcome to Zion" for it's there that the dark beats come into play. The second disc is no exception. In the first track of the second disc, it sticks with some simple loops and then dives right into the second track and the ride starts again. Satoshi Tomiie absolutely mastered this CD, it does far more than his other Renaissance contemplations.

Programmed to Perfection!!.......2007-05-13

Satoshi Tomiie blows me away again with his superbly mixed compilation album. His attention to detail and ear for music give way to a set of forward-thinking house music that defies the boundaries of any particular genre. Tech-funk and soulful melodies contribute to the joy I feel when I listen to this album. His impeccable timing and engineering skills make the set flow "just right." He beat-mixes the songs in key for extended periods of time, which really adds a subtle element of flawlessness to the journey he creates through his set. He adjusts the dynamics just right to master a normally flat-sounding track into an enhanced 3D soundscape! Of course, his choice in content is the foundation for the album's greatness (in my opinion). My favorite track is Jim Rivers "I Go Deep." When I listen to this track, I feel like I am having a deep, spiritual (personal) experience with my inner self. I actually cried as I was driving home late one night as this track was mixed in. Overall, I have a passion for progressive house music that is funky and has soul. This definitely fits the bill! My mixes are free podcasts that I upload every month and can be heard at [...]. Hope you enjoy!!

Ellegant Music.......2007-05-12

The music that this melodic cd contains it's very ellegant and unique, without loosing the ELECTRO style, because as we all know, electro it's changing the world of electronic music and it's the genre all people want to hear, so I must say A+.

Fancy a game of chess?.......2007-03-22

The last several installments of Renaissance's "Master's Series" have shown a remarkable trend in "progressive" styles; Dave Seaman's electro-house production took long-time fans by surprise, and Sandy Rivera's Renaissance debut resembled Sharam's vocal-house that, when released by Renaissance, seems to come out of left field. Satoshi Tomiie continues forging the treacherous path towards dance music of the future with what is perhaps the most complex and engaging "Masters" release since Hernan Cattaneo's Volume 2; from the very beginning, Satoshi is dropping hints that this is no ordinary progressive mix and is a far cry from a return to the darker tribal trance that made NuBreed 006 the biggest success of his recent career. Satoshi utilizes instead a smooth, sensual and cerebral progression of excellent tracks that is quite unlike anything I have heard before - both from Satoshi himself and the EDM community as an entity.

On the first disc, Satoshi displays the type of mechanical precision found in car assembly lines; the product, however, is far less stable; what this really means is that the style is less predictable and therefore more exciting. "Farra" begins very slowly with xylophonic chords - giving the introduction to this disc a spacious atmosphere. As a result I always find myself in a complacent headspace that is soon shattered as the music unfolds. The feather-light sounds that weave over and under the melody effortlessly capture and calm the ear - until, that is, a wickedly cool and funky bass-driven groove gives "Air Moves" and "Don't Push It" the collective momentum needed to propel the first mix closer to its peak. The cool and delicate atmospheric consistency never gives way to anything too overpowering. Interrupting (and it is hardly a rude one!) the ambience is "Darkroomboot" by Opus Ink, an alias representing the collaborative efforts of Satoshi himself with the rapidly-rising European duo Audiofly. The tempo quickens, the melody gains definition, and the rest of the album explodes with a restrained energy that I found to be decadently suitable for cocktails and good conversation prior to entering thunderous dance floors. Arguably the sickest beat on the first mix appears in "So That's What Happens", which is surrounded by electro-robotic harmony. The beat is momentarily interrupted by silence, save the churning of electric turbines; it returns, seconds later, with the same latent ferocity as before. The timbre of DJ Yellow & King Britt's "Alienation 3/Beyond the Forest" reflects the track title so well. Haunting synths cascade over a cooler and slower foundation and remind me of the feeling one would experience if one were to gaze upwards in the center of an unknown forest, touched simultaneously by fear and spiritual awe. And how fitting it is that Jim Rivers' "I Go Deep" follows! Its deep and eclectic rhythm flows like water in a brook, slowly removing one's head from the forest and placing it, gently, back into the pre-club environment. "Praise" and "Aura" end the first disc with an upbeat, mid-tempo jazziness that is quite enjoyable.

Satoshi breaks disc two down immediately, hinting at the raw energy-to-come with the uniquely staccato "chopstick" percussion of Thugf*cker's "Ahh", later dropping into a hard bass drum. I will admit that I'm not crazy about the admittedly creepy male spoken-word vocals in "I Need", but they are quickly and quietly overlooked as the cowbell-driven pace of Matt O'Brien's increasingly popular "Serotone" kick in neatly alongside the first identifiably "dark" grooves of any track mixed on either disc. It would be wise to heed the title "Lose Control", because from this point onwards the aural journey becomes bumpier, wilder and more "Satoshi" than has been shown on the album thus far. I felt that the upbeat and bouncy atmosphere shoots like an arrow straight through the heart of the second disc. The next several tracks continue the cerebral-dance theme, and "Moods" drops a particularly body-moving rhythm that warrants mention. The peak of disc two is reached with a great pairing of tracks by Satoshi; in this case, D'Julz's "Flick It" (Original Mix) and Guy Gerber & Patrik K's "Sleeping in the Bass Box". I think the combination works perfectly; the smooth and respectable build up of "Flick It"s electro-energy erupts with a mean bass line that drives the melody as much as acting as a segue between "Flick It" and "Sleeping in the Bass Box". Take note of the latter title, because that's precisely the impression this track left me feeling I'd experienced. "Cropduster" and "Driven" polish off this fine piece of work, and end disc two with a far better fade-out than was given on disc one, where "Aura" seems to arbitrarily disappear.

The complexity of Satoshi Tomiie's latest (and, dare I say, greatest?) achievement is hard to swallow at first. Only after four sessions of listening to both discs straight through was I able to realize the insight Satoshi projects. I would have to say that this album is tied for my favorite amongst the "Masters" series with Cattaneo's Part 5. Satoshi Tomiie manages to create the most outstanding aural chess match I have ever heard - and although it is Satoshi who moves the pieces, it is the listener who ultimately wins the match.

~Lex

R&B Music:

R&B Music

r&b music

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