Egypt

Amazon.com
African music heads have done a bit of grumbling over the years about Youssou N'Dour. They take issue with the great singer's choice to record high-energy mbalax music, which mixes African and Cuban rhythms, for his Senegal homeland fans while recording (lesser to some) modern global pop for his European and American releases. N'Dour continues to do the crossover thing on Egypt, but rather than draw upon Western pop song constructs, he dives into Arabian and Egyptian orchestra music complete with strings, flutes, and percussion. In the past, the singer's voice often had a keening quality that allowed him to soar over his working band, the great Super Etoile, but here N'Dour smoothes over the rough edges to render some of his most delicate and subtle singing to date. Providing strong support, the orchestra sounds lush and dynamic throughout. The only real complaint here is the relatively short 41-minute running time of the album, but there's still plenty music for purists and popsters. --Tad Hendrickson

Product Description
While Youssou N’Dour’s international releases have always combined Senegalese musical traditions with outside sources of inspiration, Egypt takes a fresh approach; on this album, the rhythms and melodies of Senegal drive arrangements featuring Egyptian and Arabian orchestral sounds. Featuring traditional musicians in Dakar and in Cairo, EgyptEgypt is N’Dour’s lyrical celebration of Senegal’s Muslim mystical culture of Sufism. EgyptEgypt’s lyrics demonstrate a distinctly Senegalese way of Islam, and of Sufi thought and practice, with references to venerated caliphs, saints, and sages

Egypt,Youssou N'Dour,Nonesuch,Africa,African,African Folk,Afro-Pop,Int'l & World Music,Mbalax,Middle Eastern Pop,Pop,Senegal,World Music,Worldbeat

Average customer rating: Wonderful Music! Prince of Egypt music cd. Powerful great Great Music--but Sound Levels Need Adjusting

The Prince Of Egypt: Music From The Original Motion Picture Soundtrack Original Soundtrack Manufacturer: Dreamworks ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Pop | Styles | Music Contemporary | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music 1990s | By Decade | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Pop | Indie Music | Stores | Music General | Soundtracks | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Prince of Egypt Anastasia: Music From The Motion Picture (1997 Version) Disney's Hercules: An Original Walt Disney Records Soundtrack The Prince Of Egypt: Inspirational Tarzan: An Original Walt Disney Records Soundtrack ASIN: B00000DFTM Release Date: 1998-11-17

Tracks:

1. The Prince Of Egypt (When You Believe) - Mariah Carey/Whitney Houston
2. Deliver Us - Ofra Haza/Eden Riegel
3. The Reprimand - Stephen Schwartz
4. Following Tzipporah - Stephen Schwartz
5. All I Ever Wanted (With Queen's Reprise) - Amick Byram/Linda Dee Shayne
6. Goodbye Brother - Ofra Haza
7. Through Heaven's Eyes - Brian Stokes Mitchell
8. The Burning Bush - Stephen Schwartz
9. Playing With The Big Boys - Steve Martin/Martin Short
10. Cry - Ofra Haza
11. Rally - Stephen Schwartz
12. The Plagues - Ralph Fiennes/Amick Byram
13. Death Of The First Born - Stephen Schwartz
14. When You Believe - Michelle Pfeiffer/Sally Dworsky
15. Red Sea - Stephen Schwartz
16. Through Heaven's Eyes - K-Ci & JoJo
17. River Lullaby - Amy Grant
18. Humanity - Jessica Andrews/Clint Black/Boyz II Men/Shirley Caesar/Jesse Campbell/Carman...
19. I Will Get There (A Cappella) - Boyz II Men

Amazon.com

It should be little surprise that of the three Prince of Egypt CDs, this one, which contains music actually used in the picture, is the best. The disc features songs written by Academy Award winners Stephen Schwartz and Hans Zimmer. It also showcases the always impressive vocal talents of Ofra Haza on several tracks. The disc also crams in a few singles--ranging from the solid Boyz II Men track "I Will Get There" to the average "The Prince of Egypt (When You Believe)" by Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey to the dismal "Through Heaven's Eyes," by K-Ci & JoJo. But ultimately, Haza steals the show on tracks like "Cry" and the gorgeous "Deliver Us," performed with Eden Riegel. Other standouts include "Playing with the Big Boys," by Steve Martin and Martin Short, and a pleasant, if not unexpected, vocal by Michelle Pfeiffer on "When You Believe." --Aaron Tassano

Customer Reviews:

Wonderful Music!.......2007-06-11

My 3 1/2 year old after watching the movie fell in love with the songs. She asks for me to play the CD for her almost daily. She enjoys singing to it. I enjoy being reminded that God is still fighting for us in our darkest moments.

Prince of Egypt music cd........2007-05-30

The Prince of Egypt soundtrack is pure gold. Almost every song is homerun. We've listened to this disk many times and it never gets old. Keep in mind that several of the songs express powerful religious themes.

Powerful.......2007-02-01

This Soundtrack appeals to both me and my 7 year old daughter as well as my teenage neices. The music is powerful and beautiful. A permanent addition to my music collection.

great.......2007-01-12

Our 4 yr. old daughter watches this movie all the time, and it was great to get the cd so we could listen to it elsewhere. The music is awesome and it also has the lyrics inside, bonus. Great buy

Great Music--but Sound Levels Need Adjusting.......2007-01-09

My whole family loves this CD. Unfortunately we have to turn the stereo way up to hear the songs at the right level--and portions of some songs are still hard to hear. If I had bought locally I would have returned this CD for a replacement.

Average customer rating: Arabic Groove Cool Groove Listen to someone else's Top 10 countdown... I love this cd Rocking the kasbah

Arabic Groove Various Artists Manufacturer: Putumayo World Music ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Algeria | Africa | International | Styles | Music Egypt | Africa | International | Styles | Music General | Africa | International | Styles | Music Morocco | Africa | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | Middle East | International | Styles | Music Lebanon | Middle East | International | Styles | Music Arabic | Middle East | International | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music General | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music International | Putumayo World Music Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Putumayo Presents: Turkish Groove Desert Roses and Arabian Rhythms Putumayo Presents: Sahara Lounge Putumayo Presents: North African Groove Asian Groove ASIN: B00005J6WU Release Date: 2001-06-12

Tracks:

1. Moi Et Toi - Abdel Ali Slimani
2. Galbi - Abdy
3. Leiley (Transglobal Underground Remix) - Dania
4. Amarain - Amr Diab
5. Intil Waheeda - Hisham Abbas
6. Hely Meli - Hamid El Shaeri
7. Mani - Fadela & Sahraoui
8. Kidda - Natacha Atlas
9. Mauvais Sang - Khaled
10. Ne Me Jugez Pas (Volodia Remix) - Sawt El Atlas
11. L'histoire - Cheb Tarik

Amazon.com

While not yet part of mainstream American music, Middle Eastern music, as evidenced by the rise of Algerian pop star Khaled in France, has sidled up to other club music forms in the hot spots of Paris, London, and elsewhere. To that end, Putumayo's Arabic Groove brings us up to date with their compilation, a jubilant sonic party rooted in ancient musical tradition and structure, steeped in the au courant flavors of hip-hop, R&B, and other urban western forms. Lebanese, Egyptian, Moroccan, and Algerian artists such as former Londoner Natacha Atlas (who has been featured with both Transglobal Underground and Jah Wobble) contribute 11 songs which lend themselves to sensual dance, exotic drink, and glamorous gatherings of multicultural hipsters. Traditional Arabic instruments such as the flute and oud blend with guitar, bass, and drums, laying down plenty of funk, fun, and full-on booty-shaking rhythms. A heady high point is the disco-nomad jam "Leiley," a Transglobal Underground remix of a hit by Lebanese songstress Dania. Arabic Groove is a feast of a sampler. --Paige La Grone

Customer Reviews:

Arabic Groove.......2007-06-17

Middle Eastern music at it's best. I am quite satisfied with this purchase. As a matter of fact I purchased an additional one for a friend. Putmayo is the best.

Cool Groove.......2007-05-07

This is excellent for either listening or dancing. My dance teacher found it also to be an excellent example of music to dance to. Everyone who has heard it has enjoyed it. I really recommend it for Arabic music lovers everywhere.

Listen to someone else's Top 10 countdown..........2006-08-22

I heard some of this while serving in Iraq. As a fan of "world music" it caught my attention right away. If you enjoy some exposure to other cultures and like to tap your foot, check this one out.

I love this cd.......2006-08-16

I love the cd but the first song is messed up. there is a scratch or something on it. but I don't care much because the rest is awesome. I listen to it constantly.

Rocking the kasbah.......2006-06-14

This was the CD that started Putumayo's Groove series;so far,it's one of the best.While many of the songs are about unrequited love,they are also incredibly danceable&upbeat.

Highlights-
1)Moi et toi-This has a funky beat.
2)Galbi-Another great song about unrequited love.Abdy is truly talented.
3)Leiley-A remix by Transglobal Underground.Dania's song of longing is amazing.
4)Kidda-This song introduced me to the great Natacha Atlas.I now have 3 of her CDs.This song,of course,is about unrequited love&is quite raw&powerful.
5)Ne me jugez pas-A boy band from Morocco sings a great song remixed by Volodia.


If you want a bazaar of music,try this one!

Average customer rating: Dance-able! Hypnotic very hot fab sounds DOESN'T REALLY MATTER WHAT MUSIC YOU LIKE...

Immortal Egypt Phil Thornton & Hossam Ramzy Manufacturer: New World Music ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Egypt | Africa | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music Meditation | New Age | Styles | Music Space Rock | Rock | Alternative Styles | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Electronic | Progressive | Rock | Styles | Music General | New Age | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Moroccan Spirit Eternal Egypt Enchanted Egypt Galactic Caravan: Intergalactic Bellydance Desert Roses and Arabian Rhythms ASIN: B00000DLWF Release Date: 1998-10-20

Tracks:

1. At The Gates Of The Citadel
2. Cairo Blues
3. Last Words By The Temple
4. Morocco Dance
5. Derwood Green
6. El Moulid
7. Praying For Rain
8. Emerald Minarets In A Sea Of Stars
9. Sunrise Over Giza
10. Immortal Egypt

Amazon.com

This, the third pairing of Brit multi-instrumentalist Thornton and Egyptian percussionist Ramzy, further explores Middle Eastern dance motifs in a contemporary setting. Recording the basic tracks in the U.K., they went to Cairo and invited some of the top local musicians to collaborate. Flute, violin, ney, aud, rebala, and accordion flesh out these extended, ambient grooves in an evocative, textural tapestry aimed as much at the mind as at the feet. Reminiscent of Peter Gabriel's film scoring, Immortal Egypt has, with all its participants, enough cultural pedigree to satisfy World Music fans and sonic construction to please the headphone listener, but is probably too gentle for dance clubs, except for the most subtle sashaying. --Derek Rath

Album Description

Following the glowing success of Eternal Egypt, a new light of inspiration has guided Thornton and Ramzy to work together again in a startling and innovative format. Thornton describes the the creation of the recording in this way...

Customer Reviews:

Dance-able!.......2007-05-24

Compulsively dance-able! This lovely CD is also good for listening to whenever. Nice as a background, but hardly boring. You can't ignore it, but it isn't intrusive either. Highly recommended for dancers.

Hypnotic.......2007-01-10

This is a great CD for almost everything! I listen to relax, I listen to energize, I listen while driving, while at work, or I use it to practice my bellydance moves. I can also put it on in the background almost anytime and I love it all the way through. I also recommend the Sabla Tolo CD by H.Ramzy if you want something faster, more upbeat & purely percussional. These 2 CD's are a great balance & truly complement one another.

very hot.......2006-06-24

I COMPLETELY concur with Brendanna's assessment as well as the others: turn the lights out, light a bunch of candles, and let the music from this cd create the rest of the atmosphere. Its hypnotic and erotic. Each time you listen you hear different instrument elements. I'm definitely going to look for more of this artist combination of Phil Thornton and Hossam Ramzy. Hossam is the percussion king in my book. The horns in the title track "Immortal Eqypt" are awesome, it leads the imagination to picture an ancient Egyptian celebratory procession through ancient city streets with all the pomp and circumstance these events beheld. My girlfriends love to entertain with belly dancing to this track, I love it!! Unfortunately, my cd got stuck in my car's player!! Fortunately I had already dubbed it to the pc. Definitely a good listen if you're a world music lover who appreciates the sophisticated blend of the modern and the ancient traditional. For parties I like to play different music in each congregation space, this definitely gets heavy rotation.

fab sounds.......2006-03-21

Immortal egypt is a brilliant album. I would recommend it to everyone interested in any middle eastern music. It has everything. Its so beautiful i listen to it a lot!!!!

DOESN'T REALLY MATTER WHAT MUSIC YOU LIKE..........2005-12-28

Its really something you should have in your collection. I like all kinds of music, and this one works for me to. My mind flows with every rythm of the songs.... It opens up your imagination to do whatever you want... specially if you are playful and kinky..haha... What I really mean is that you just need to turn off the lights, light on a bunch of candles and let the music make the rest.... just listen to it and it will tells you what to do. dance, breath, stretch, pray, anything. As for me, I would recommend you the tracks:
1. At The Gates Of The Citadel
3. Last Words By The Temple
4. Morocco Dance
6. El Moulid
7. Praying For Rain
8. Emerald Minarets In A Sea Of Stars
9. Sunrise Over Giza
10. Immortal Egypt
Enjoy the trip.

Average customer rating: 5 Stars Discounting Recording Problems Perfect for homeschooling. In Words & Music Don't blink

The Story Of Handel Manufacturer: Vox (Classical) ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Ballets | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Handel | Handel, George Frideric | ( H ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Concerto Grossi | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Fantasies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Ballets & Dances | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Recorder | Reeds & Winds | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Oratorios | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Children's Music | Styles | Music CDs Under $7 | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs Under $7 | Fantasies | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Fantasies | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music 4-for-3 Classical | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Story of Bach The Story of Beethoven The Story of Mozart The Story of Tchaikovsky The Story Of Haydn ASIN: B000001KCX Release Date: 1995-04-16

Tracks:

1. Water Music
2. Israel In Egupt: 'He Gave Them Hailstones'
3. Organ Concerto No. 16 In F Major: Larghetto affetuoso
4. Messiah: I Know That My Redeemer Liveth
5. The Faithful Shepherd: Overture
6. Terpsichore: Overture
7. Julius Caesar: Aria Of Ptolemy
8. Sonata No. 1 In B Flat Major For Recorder And Harpsichord: Finale
9. Concerto Grosso In G Minor, Op. 6 No. 6: Fugue
10. Messiah: Every Valley Shall Be Exalted
11. Rodelinda: Overure
12. Ezio: Overture
13. Organ Concerto No. 13 In Major: Larghetto
14. Water Music: Hornpipe
15. Fantasia In C Major
16. Harmonious Blacksmith
17. Water Music: Andante
18. Julius Caesar: Finale
19. Organ Concerto No. 5 In F Major: Allegro
20. Alexander's Feast: Oveture
21. Serse: Largo
22. Isreal In Egypt: He Spake The Word
23. Larghetto e staccato
24. Messiah: Hallelujah Chorus
25. Israel In Egypt: The Horse And His Rider
26. Messiah: Why Do The Nations
27. Judas Maccabeus: Hallelujah Amen
28. Israel In Egypt: And The Children If Israel Sighed
29. Messiah: Hallelujah
30. Water Music: Ouverture
31. Water Music: III. Allegro
32. Water Music: IV. Allegro
33. Water Music: VII. Bourree Hornpipe
34. Water Music: X.
35. Water Music: XI
36. Water Music: XVI
37. Water Music: XVII
38. Water Music: XVIII
39. Water Music: XIX

Customer Reviews:

5 Stars Discounting Recording Problems.......2007-05-14

The content is terrific. This CD is one of a series of classical music masters. The only problem is that tracks 38 and later have a lot of distortion/static. I returned thinking it was a problem with the disc, but the replacement disc had the same problem. If not for that, I would have rated 5 stars.

Perfect for homeschooling........2007-01-29

The narratives are short enough to keep your children's attention, the music may be short in some instances but if you're playing it in the background for exposure- it doesn't matter. The price is great and the cheapest you'll find in addition to the 4 for 3 deal. We have all 18 of these cds and don't regret it!

In Words & Music.......2000-07-24

I have found this recording series to be a very helpful introductory teaching device for my young children. It gives a brief history of the composer and samples of the musical style.

Don't blink.......2000-05-03

The music on this CD is all wonderful, and it's a perfect CD toget - if you have the attention span of a soap bubble! Thisis a "sampler" with narrative and very few of thepieces listed are actually played in their entirety. Even pieces which are short to begin with are excerpted. We are given a whole minute of the Hallelujah Chorus and a rousing 45 seconds from the overture from "Ezio". This is a teaching CD which gives some fine examples to support the narration - but they are very short examples. A few bars here and there is all you get.

Average customer rating: Best of Bellydance very good service and wonderfull to dance to. Best of Bellydance from Egypt, Lebanon, Arabia, and Turkey Varied & Diverse Although Often with an "Orchestrated' Sound Mystirious Passionate Musique !!

Best of Bellydance from Egypt, Lebanon, Arabia & Turkey Various Artists Manufacturer: Arc Music ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | International | Styles | Music General | Middle East | International | Styles | Music Middle East & North Africa | Compilations | International | Styles | Music CDs Under $7 | International General | International | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | International General | International | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | International General | International | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs Under $7 | Middle East | International | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Middle East | International | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Middle East | International | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music General | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music International | Imports | Stores | Music 4-for-3 International | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Pop | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Belly Dance Instrumentals Bellydance Superstars The Best of Arabian Belly Dance Hayati : Best of Egyptian Belly Dance Music Bellylicious ASIN: B000001IKL Release Date: 2002-03-12

Tracks:

1. Aziza - Hossam Ramzy
2. Tokat Sarmasi - Esin Engin
3. Min Aboukra L'Ashiye - Emad Sayyah
4. Ghannili Sheway Sheway - Hossam Ramzy
5. Saiedeh - Happiest - Aboud Abdel Al
6. Ya Cemil - Leyli
7. Ma 'Zoufat Al Bouzouk - Emad Sayyah
8. Gazal - Essam Rashad
9. Sahara Groove - Hossam Ramzy
10. Arap Ciftellisi - Esin Engin
11. Li Jamal Cleopatra - Emad Sayyah
12. El Hayah Helwa - Hossam Ramzy

Customer Reviews:

Best of Bellydance.......2007-03-09

I am glad I bought this. It is a great CD. I am a beginner and will use this to practice.

very good service and wonderfull to dance to........2007-01-11

I bought this for my sister for xmas and she loves it.

Best of Bellydance from Egypt, Lebanon, Arabia, and Turkey.......2005-07-21

It is good and I like it but I am new to Belly danceing and found the music a bit to fast for me. I would say that this music would be for those more experienced at the art.

Varied & Diverse Although Often with an "Orchestrated' Sound.......2004-04-04

This CD is a good start for listeners unfamiliar with the diversity of unique music and instruments from the Middle East and Arabia. The first six tracks are the most appealing as the music of each country, Egypt, Lebanon, Turkey, and Arabia is presented. One can develop an appreciation and taste for the 'belly dance' rhythm, unique progression of musical paths, and traditional instruments, that compose this most outstanding and easily recognizable genre of music (and dance). While the music is "contemporary" it is also at times, highly orchestrated. Luckily this occurs mostly in *only* the last 6 tracks. The first 6 selections have an interesting introduction before the primary music is played, it begins with either a dumbek or kanun or tanbur (tambur, lute-like instrument) which teases the listener, knowing full well, it is an 'appetizer' before a sumptious musical feast. Most of the selections include very dramatic and captivating improvisations on *traditional* instruments, such as the ney, the kanun, or the violin. One is *easily* drawn into this sensuous and delightful music by the introduciton which, at times, is markedly different than the main musical melody. There is a musical transition musical to most of the selections that is smooth and very intense . The dumbek or other traditional instrument often defines the "raks araby" (Greek "tsitetelli", i.e. 'belly dance') styled rhythm although there are tracks when it is the lute or kanun which defines the rhythm.

The most outstanding piece on the CD is track #1, "Aziza" (Arabia) played by Hosssam Ramzy and his orchestra. It is exotic and has jazz-like improvisations on the ney, violin, and kanun which capture the sounds, sights, and smells of the souk and casbah. You *know* you have arrived into another world of music ... Track #2 "Dert Ortagim Benim", is Turkish and played by Ensemble Huseyn Turkmenler. It begins with a dumbek intro that is soon accompanied by traditional instruments, the ney, lute, kanun, and violin. Together these instruments create a dynamic melody and rhythm that captivates the listener. Eventually each instrument, ney, kanun, lute, and violin is provided a solo opportunity to shine, to stand out, to be heard when it is played by a virtuoso, who demonstrates jazz-like improvisaitons and explores the full depth and breadth of musical possibilies on a solo instrument. #4 "Ghannili Sheway Sheway" by Hossam Ramzy and orchestra create a sensational sound, played on the ney, kanun, violin, lute, and keyboards ... this one creates labyrinthine musical pathways with unusual twists, turns, and curves. Hossam Ramzy is a master musician, world reknown for his creativity and stylizations of the Middle Eastern sound. #5 is translated as "Happiness" ("Saiedeh"). The music has Arabic influences, played on a violin or cello-like instrument, there are occasionally keyboards. The end is especially explosive with "ullalations", high-pitched vocalizations often done by women with the tongue against the pallate but can done by men also, during times of intense joy, happiness and unexpected pleasure. #6 sounds Egyptian due to the frequent dumbek rhythm, although somewhat orchestrated, they music retains the original flavor and ambience of Arabic music.
Overall, this CD contains a wide variety of exemplary belly dance music, although it slightly disappoints due to orchestration, when traditional instruments would be preferable. Erika Borsos (erikab93)

Mystirious Passionate Musique !!.......2003-05-01

I love this ablum very much !
It is not too noisy , too hard beat as some Belly Dance albums, but enjoyable groove floting in the air. Some fast and dance-able mixed with some groovy quite songs. Never too excited while not sleepy as some ethical albums.

Track 8: "Gazal", composed and performed by Essam Rashad, is a beautiful track which had appeared in Natacha Atlas's debut album, but differnet version. Natacha's version has some chant, but here is a pure instrumental version which leads us into the stary desert .......

Buy it !! It is low price now and it actually worth twice of it's price !!

Average customer rating: Mix down the vocals, and maybe Kind of disappointing Mediocre Middle Eastern collection Awesome CD Excellent Foray to Rye Music

Desert Roses and Arabian Rhythms Various Artists Manufacturer: Ark 21 ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Algeria | Africa | International | Styles | Music Egypt | Africa | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | Middle East | International | Styles | Music Arabic | Middle East | International | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Arabic Groove Desert Roses & Arabian Rhythms II Desert Roses and Arabian Rhythms, Vol. 3 Moroccan Spirit Immortal Egypt ASIN: B00005A8LX Release Date: 2001-03-20

Tracks:

1. Mon Amie La Rose - Natacha Atlas
2. La Valse - Faudel
3. Aalach Tloumouni - Khaled
4. Inchallah - Latifa
5. Desert Rose (Melodic Club Mix) - Sting/Cheb Mami
6. Chie Begam - Andy
7. I'm Yours - Soraya
8. Dis Moi Pourquoi - Amina
9. Hay Wadi Hay Galbi - Cheb Mami
10. Pomegranate - Trans-Global Underground
11. Esma Yalli - Hakim
12. La Titnahad - Kazem Al Saher
13. Qalantiqa - Rachid Taha

Amazon.com

When Sting collaborated with Cheb Mami on the Brand New Day track "Desert Rose," he created a surprising demand for Arabic crossover pop. This collection provides a suitable next stop for those whose taste was whetted by that collaboration. Egyptian singer Natacha Atlas opens the album with "Mon Amie la Rose," a maudlin little French tune she twists through her wringer until it is utterly transformed. "Desert Rose" turns up as a frisky remix by Victor Calderone, while Rachid Taha and the trance choir, B'Net Marrakech, appear in the compelling, orchestrated "Qalantica." Mami is heard on his own on one tune, but is eclipsed by the gut-shredding Khaled, the undisputed king of Algerian rai. The harder-edged electronic outings are standouts, while the tracks that are the Arabic equivalent of adolescent pop don't hold up nearly as well. This compilation, however, mostly eschews the dross in favor of tunes that go the distance. --Christina Roden

Customer Reviews:

Mix down the vocals, and maybe.......2007-06-04

I loved Arabesque and Arabian Travels, but this is not trance. This is more like Arabian pop music. The vocals are irritating to me. Sting even shows up on one track. If you are looking for world trance, or something to chill out or relax to, forget this one.

Kind of disappointing.......2007-02-02

I love world music and Putumayo CDs.
I also loved that Desert Rose song and the amazing voice of Cheb Mami with Sting.
I bought this CD expecting a sexy "One Thousand and One Nights" music style, or a good fusion of traditional and modern sounds, but instead, what I got was a KITSCH POP version of arabic songs.
Some of the songs are just bad taste, you just want to forward them as quickly as possible.
I should have guessed just by the look of the cover. It reflects the music as well. The painting might be nice, but the mix with the modern computer added photo image and the strange balls of roses just don't work well together. The same goes for the songs.
I don't recommend it, unless you're looking for cheesy disposable pop.

Mediocre Middle Eastern collection.......2006-12-21

This compilation of Arabic pop hits around the same time as Sting&Cheb Mami's "Desert Rose" hit and Putumayo's "Arabic Groove" album,not surprisingly.It's disappointing,since it focuses more on westernized Arabic hits than genuinely Arabic ones.For its surprising blandness,there are highlights-
1)A remix of Cheb Mami&Sting's hit song "Desert Rose." It's very danceable,and in sync with the spirit of the original.Cheb Mami and Sting had one of those rare great celebrity duets.They powerfully melded their styles,making something wonderful.
2)Khaled is always great.His songs are never a disappointment--no wonder he's called the King of Rai.
3)Amina's "Dis Moi Pourquoi" is an excellent dancefloor song.It was a hit in France,and musically,it works.It's French chanson meeting Tunisian pop.
4)Speaking of French chanson,Natacha Atlas radically re-imagines Edith Piaf's "Mon amie la rose",transforming it from a Gallic weepie into a sensual Arabic serenade.
5)Hakim,who is considered a prince of rai,has a great song.
6)Cheb Mami's "Hay wadi hay galbi" is amazing.While Khaled is almost Arabic R&B,and Hakim is a Middle Eastern boy band sort,this song shows off Cheb Mami's musical gymnastics.It's quite stunning.After hearing this,I got his "Saida" album.

Instead of getting this,I reccomend Putumayo's "Sahara Lounge" (its best Middle Eastern compilation)and "Arabic Groove." "Desert Roses" has a half-dozen hits,the rest are forgettable.If you like Middle Eastern music,explore Putumayo's compilations instead.

Awesome CD.......2005-07-23

I just bought this CD along with a bunch of other and I absolutely love it. It's great for belly dancing too as well as just listening to while you're doing housework.

Excellent Foray to Rye Music.......2004-12-16

This album is a splendid way to get into Rye music. Sting's hit single performance with Cheb Mami sparks interest, and the rest of the more obscure (in America, that is) tracks are all beautiful. Fun gift for somebody who is learning French (Maghreb music is often sung in French,) or just seeking out some more exotic music. Also, fabulously sultry dancing music!

Average customer rating: Relax and drift away Not impressed Very good CD Stunning. Absolutely stunning. Sand in my eyes, under the Egyptian sky...

Echoes of Egypt Diane & David Arkenstone Manufacturer: Neo Pacific ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | New Age | Styles | Music Meditation | New Age | Styles | Music Similar Items: African Skies Atlantis: A Symphonic Journey Spirit of Tibet: A Musical Odyssey Caribbean Dreams Spirits of the Rainforest ASIN: B0001CCYE2 Release Date: 2004-02-24

Tracks:

1. Secret Chamber
2. River and the Sun
3. Seduction
4. Temple of Isis
5. Across the Sands of Time

Album Description

Adventure Cargo takes you on a brand new journey across the most picturesque landscapes of the world. Diane and David Arkenstone have produced a musical tour guide, courting you in innovative new directions beginning with African Skies, Spirits of the Rainforest and Echoes of Egypt.

Customer Reviews:

Relax and drift away.......2007-06-27

I listen to a lot of music in this genre and this one is a keeper! Yes, the songs may all have a similar base sound but they blend well.

Not impressed.......2006-08-29

Wow, I hate to be the lone voice of dissent for this product, but I really didn't find it all that moving. Arkenstone is one of my favorite new age composers, but this CD lacked all of his usual creativity.

Most of the songs sound almost exactly the same. One at a time, they are very nice - taken all together, and it's just plain boring. The pace of the music throughout is slow - there are no fast melodies, which really doesn't reflect the wide range of musical styles present in Egypt. His usual ability to create sweeping, uplifting melodic lines is totally absent. The style is also "eastern" more than "Egyptian". That may be an unimportant point to some, but I was looking forward to a particular flavor and found it wanting. It's very relaxing and pretty, but other than that..

This would be a great CD to relax to or mediate with, but I would not say this is one of Arkenstone's best - perhaps listen to the whole disk first and see if you like it.

Very good CD.......2006-05-16

This is a great CD and I do recommend it! However I have to comment that several parts of it could have come off the soundtrack for Blackhawk Down.

Stunning. Absolutely stunning........2005-10-19

David and Diane Arkenstone never disappoint, and Echoes of Egypt will amaze you. The fairer half of this truly gifted musical couple has outdone herself with this richly woven tapestry of evocative rhythms, mesmerizing melodies and flowing moods. Within thirty seconds, The Secret Chamber will have you hooked, drawing you into a cinematic experience like no other. Bold vistas, colorful celebrations, temples filled with whirling dancers, the marvels of past made present-these images and much more will blossom within your mind. If you don't find yourself rocking to the beat (or at least tapping your foot), you're not alive. Before you know it, 62 minutes will have gone by and you'll find yourself pressing play again. Too bad I can't give Echoes of Egypt more than 5 stars.
My advice: Buy it!

Sand in my eyes, under the Egyptian sky..........2005-02-15

Wow...what a wonderful journey you embark upon with this cd!
This is one of the most, enchanting and 'full' cds I have ever listened to. The cover art on this cd is AMAZING! If you would like to see a pic, I will email you one, my email is in the 'about me' section.

There are only five songs on this cd, most are over 12 minutes long...so you get your money's worth.
Here is a breakdown of the songs:

1. The Secret Chamber-(14:44 long) This is my fave on the cd...
Makes me think of myself being an explorer of Egypt, and I happen upon a "secret chamber" and see all the tomb paintings and the hieroglyphs on the walls, and as I read the ancient words I am transported back in time. Awesome...simply awesome!

2.The River and the Sun-(14:47 long) Diane Arkenstone captured the essence and the life force of Egypt perfectly...the River (the Nile) is the life of Egypt..and you can almost see in your mind's eye a barge floating down it with several rowers and the Pharaoh himself seated upon a throne of Gold..or maybe Cleopatra lounging with Anthony...along the river banks the people of Egypt gathering papyrus reeds to make paper! Good music!

3.Seduction-(5:52 long) The shortest song on here, you can picture
a lovely,Egyptian girl dancing for her Gods or for her Pharaoh. Lovely...good beat!

4.The Temple of Isis-(14:33 long) This is a very breathy and enchating song...puts me in mind of the ceremonies to Isis and you can just picture the procession of worshipers going to her temple to pray and give sacrifice to the Goddess...maybe in the evening seeing two lovers stealing away for a forbidden rendezvous inside the sanctuary...I love the ambient vocals on this. Makes your imagination run wild! (obviously)

5.Across the Sands of Time-(12:09 long) This speaks to me of the eternity of Egypt...and all it's long held secrets and all it's magic. Beautiful "flute" sounds at the beginning...and you can almost see a wide sweeping view of the desert opening up before you and in the distance the pyramids appear and as you near them you happen upon a temple ruin and as you walk in you discover all the answers to all the questions you ever had about Egypt inscribed upon the walls, and as the sun shines down on you from the crumbled roof, you see that the magic of Egypt was the people who lived and built it...

These little descriptions are what I "see" and think of when I listen to this cd. If you are fascinated with Egypt like I am, you need to have this cd...Very well worth your time and money to buy this...
"The Journey of a Thousand miles begins with a single footstep..."

Average customer rating: Great For Meditation Excellent in every way! Exceptionally Good TOTALY AWSOME MUSIC Perfect for Khemetic/Pagan/Meditation devotees

Meditation Music of Ancient Egypt Gerald Jay Markoe Manufacturer: Astromusic ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Ambient | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Electronica | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Self-Help | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music Meditation | New Age | Styles | Music Similar Items: Ancient Egypt Immortal Egypt Ambient Egypt, Sounds from Ancient Sources Ankh: The Sound of Ancient Egypt Pharaoh: Sound of Mystery ASIN: B0001DMXJC Release Date: 2004-03-02

Tracks:

1. Entering The Eternal Now
2. Pre Dawn Meditation
3. Sacred Ceremony
4. Ancient Sunrise
5. Egyptian Shaman
6. Initation
7. Sacred Movements
8. Egyptian Magic
9. Immortality

Customer Reviews:

Great For Meditation.......2007-06-25

I have spent many hours listening to this CD while meditating.

It seems to bring my feelings out and make me think about a lot of things.

It definitely sounds like ancient Egptian music to me. I guess they used the same sort of instruments that would have been used at that time.

Plato believed that Isis created some of the music from very ancient Egypt.

I guess the image on the cover is supposed to be Isis. She has very dark skin, almost black.

The great Edgar Cayce claimed that he had known and become romantically involved with Isis around 10,500 BC in Egypt. Their story is an interesting one which involved Ra Ta's enemies using the goddess' great beauty as a political weapon to ensnare the former Atlantean priest.

I bring this up here since Isis appeared at that time as a dancer in the mysterious temples such as the 'Temple Beautiful'. Apparently music and dance were used in very esoteric and mysterious ways to help the 'things' become normal again.

Jeff Marzano

Higher Ground

The Lives of Edgar Cayce

Edgar Cayce's Egypt: Psychic Revelations on the Most Fascinating Civilization Ever Known

Excellent in every way!.......2007-01-21

I use this cd often, during my healing or Energy sessions. I also use it during my Energy classes. All of the songs have an interesting, sort of captivating, sometimes haunting melody. My clients & students enjoy when I play this cd. Many clients have gone out & bought it themselves.

Exceptionally Good.......2005-11-11

If you are sufficiently interested in this type of music to read this review, you will probably like this CD. If you also like to meditate with music on, you will definitely like this CD. The music will transport you in both time and space. I gave the CD four stars instead of five because it has one flaw: Track number 4 sounds too modern, and is out of place. If you can program your CD player, skip track 4, and you will have a great experience.

TOTALY AWSOME MUSIC.......2005-07-31

The music is outstanding. Just light some incense and you are in Ancient Egypt. Great pick of instruments. I could not have picked a better CD for Ancirnt Egypt. Totaly puts you in trance state. You got to buy it.

Perfect for Khemetic/Pagan/Meditation devotees.......2004-04-03

If I could give this a 10, I would!

I've been on the quest for good sacred space/meditation music for quite some time. I took a risk since, I really couldn't tell by the sound bytes if I'd like it. I brought it home, lit some incense, candles and got comfortable whilst I pressed 'play'. For me, it was like magic. "At first, the metallic-stringed harp reminded me of Japanese music, but as the album moves along, there's something not quite Asian, African or Middle Eastern -- but definitely mystical. I would think Markoe tapped into the "Eternal Now" so aptly put on the first track of the CD. My small, cramped bedroom was turned into a temple and I, its priestess. Well done! The great thing is that each track can apply to a specific ritual or practice and their names reflect that. The first song, I used for meditation (simply programmed to repeat over and over). The next one is great for morning or "pre-dawn devotion" as described and so on. Quite versatile and yet it doesn't command one's attention, so you can easily meditate, sleep, do yoga or journal to it without being mesmerized by the melodies.

Average customer rating: Someone finally did it right! excellent recreation of ancient music Simply the Best Re-Creation of Antique Music Summer

Music of the Ancient Sumerians, Egyptians and Greeks Ensemble De Organographia , Philip Neuman , and Gayle Stuwe Neuman Manufacturer: Pandourians ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Egypt | Africa | International | Styles | Music Greece | Continental Europe | Europe | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Similar Items: Music of the Ancient Greeks Melpomen: Ancient Greek Music Musique de la Grece Antique Ancient Egypt Music of the Ancient Rome ASIN: B000044U1S Release Date: 2000-05-23

Customer Reviews:

Someone finally did it right!.......2007-08-04

Someone finally managed to figure out what ancient music would have sounded like. Up until now, the majority of the attempts at reconstructing ancient music have simply been either A. BAD or B. AFFECTED. (In particular, there were some really lousy "reconstructions" done by a group in Spain.) As a student of classical Chinese music, and a linguist, I've always had an interest in what ancient Western and Middle Eastern music would have sounded like and had something to compare "reconstructions" to since classical Chinese music IS ancient music, dating from the Bronze age. (The Chinese were the one group of ancient civilizations that kept their music intact.) The Chinese scale is remarkably similar to the ancient Greek scale (Chinese scale lacks the "fa" note deliberately since Confucians thought this note drove men insane...and interestingly enough this note is necessary to write modern military music, like Sousa marches.) I've played the 21-string Guzheng for many years now and been amazed how ancient it sounds. This gives me a comparison to listen to reconstructions of Western and Middle Eastern ancient music. Up until this album, everybody else was playing the songs too slow without any emotion and trying to make their reconstructions sound like modern symphony music. Ancient music was first and foremost folk music. Even the religious music was folk music which had been codified over the years. True, in both China and Greece and Rome there were a few "symphonies" and "high-brow" compositions, but NONE of those survied in the west (and none is popular in China) since what survives is what common people (not musicologists) like. These guys nailed it. This album is definitely worth buying. (Ignore the negative comments by another reviewer which were dumb anyway.)

excellent recreation of ancient music.......2006-04-25

this cd was all i hoped for. It is beautiful and almost seems to sweep the listener away it is so vividly done. It is steady as an ocean tide the tempos dont change drastically as in modern music but has a peaceful almost philosophical cadence to it. I highly reccomend these recordings.

Simply the Best Re-Creation of Antique Music.......2006-01-25

This is the album by Ensemble De Organographia (Gayle Stuwe Neuman and Phlip Neuman). Probably you had heard thier CDs "Music of the Ancient Greeks" and "Carnevale! Festive Music of 16th century Italy".
Disc consists of 3 sets of Antique World music. Ancient Greek Music newly founded at Oxyrhinchus in Egypt (world premiere recording); music from ancient city Ugarit (XIII century B.C.) - Sumero-Babylonian music (including oldest notated music in the history of humankind); music of the Egyptians reconstructed after descriptions by Plutarch and Apuleius.
Ensemble De Organographia re-creates this music with such love and unerstanding of the ancient cultures, that you nearly feel the breezes of the Mediterranean sea and see the landscapes of its shores. They perform it as a music of still living folk tradition.
Of course you wouldn`t find here ancient analog of the 5th Beethoven`s symphony:)
The value of this music is that you could understand internal world and spirituality of the ancient people. It`s a miracle...
I had heard different "restorations" of the Music of the Ancient World - and this work by Ensemble De Organographia is simply the best!!! A must for the lover of the Antique culture.
And it`s hard for me to understand why works by Synaulia and Atrium Musicae De Madrid are so popular.
You could find CDs by Ensemble De Organographia on website by North Pacific Music. There you would find sound samples.

My real rate of this CD - 10 stars!!!!

You could also try CD "Music in the Age of the Pyramids" by Rafael Perez Arroyo (released in Europe by NAR). He uses coptic music as a model for reconsruction of the music of the Ancient Egypt.

Summer.......2001-02-12

I would love to listen a real-audio on the web to really say something about this CD, I'm sorry

Average customer rating: Wonderful oratorios Wonderful execution and extraordinary value

Handel: Messiah, Israel In Egypt - Andrew Parrott/Taverner Choir & Players (4 CD's) Joseph Cornwall , George Frideric Handel , Andrew Parrott , and Taverner Choir & Players Manufacturer: EMI Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Handel | Handel, George Frideric | ( H ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Oratorios | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music $9.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Handel, George Frideric | ( H ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Similar Items: Bach: Magnificat; Easter Oratorio Purcell: Odes for St. Cecilia's Day - Music for Queen Mary / Taverner Consort Purcell: The Fairy Queen Handel: Messiah (1751 version) Handel - Carmelite Vespers 1707 / Feldman · Kirkby · Van Evera · M. Cable · M. Nichols · Cornwell · Thomas · Parrott ASIN: B00030FJFI Release Date: 2004-11-16

Tracks:

1. Sinfony: Grave - Allegro Moderato - James Bowman
2. Accompagnato: Comfort Ye My People - James Bowman
3. Air: Ev'ry Valley Shall Be Exalted - James Bowman
4. Chorus: And The Glory Of The Lord Shall Be Revealed - James Bowman
5. Accompagnato: Thus Saith The Lord Of Hosts - James Bowman
6. Air: But Who May Abide The Day Of His Coming - James Bowman
7. Chorus: And He Shall Purify - James Bowman
8. Recitative: Behoold, A Virgin Shall Conceive - James Bowman
9. Air & Chorus: O Thou That Tellest Good Tidings To Zion - James Bowman
10. Accompagnato: For Behold, Darkness Shall Cover The Earth - James Bowman
11. Air: The People That Walked In Darkness - James Bowman
12. Chorus: For Unto Us A Child Is Born - James Bowman
13. Pifa: Larghetto E Mezzo Piano - James Bowman
14. Recitative & Accompagnato: There Were Shepherds/Recitative: And The Angel Said Unto Them/Accompagnato: And Suddenly There Was With The Angel - James Bowman
15. Chorus: Glory To God In The Highest - James Bowman
16. Air: Rejoice Greatly, O Daughter Of Zion - James Bowman
17. Recitative: Then Shall The Eyes Of The Blind Be Open'd - James Bowman
18. Air: He Shall Fell His Flock Like A Shepherd - James Bowman
19. Chorus: His Yoke Is Easy, His Burthen Is Light - James Bowman
20. Chorus: Behold, The Lamb Of God - James Bowman
21. Air: He Was Despised - James Bowman
22. Chorus: Surely, He Hath Borne Our Griefs - James Bowman
23. Chorus: And With His Stripes We Are Healed - James Bowman
24. Chorus: All We Like Sheep Have Gone Astray - James Bowman

Tracks:

1. Accompagnato: All They That See Him, Laugh Him To Scorn - James Bowman
2. Chorus: He Trusted In God - James Bowman
3. Accompagnato: Thy Rebuke Hath Broken His Heart - James Bowman
4. Arioso: Behold, And See If There Be Any Sorrow - James Bowman
5. Accompagnato: He Was Cut Off Out Of The Land Of The Living - James Bowman
6. Air: But Thou Didst Not Leave His Soul In Hell - James Bowman
7. Chorus: Lift Up Your Heads, O Ye Gates - James Bowman
8. Recitative: Unto Which Of The Angels - James Bowman
9. Chorus: Let All The Angels Of God Worship Him - James Bowman
10. Air: Thou Art Gone Up On High - James Bowman
11. Chorus: The Lord Gave The Word - James Bowman
12. Air: How Beautiful Are The Feet - James Bowman
13. Chorus: Their Sound Is Gone Out Into All Lands - James Bowman
14. Air: Why Do The Nations So Furiously Rage Together - James Bowman
15. Chorus: Let us Break Their Bonds Asunder - James Bowman
16. Recitative: He That Dwelleth In Heaven - James Bowman
17. Air: Thou Shalt Break Them - James Bowman
18. Chorus: Hallelujah! - James Bowman
19. Air: I Know That My Redeemer Liveth - James Bowman
20. Chorus: Since By Man Came Death - James Bowman
21. Accompagnato: Behold, I Tell You A Mystery - James Bowman
22. Air: The Trumpet Shall Sound - James Bowman
23. Recitative: Then Shall Be Brought To Pass The Saying - James Bowman
24. Duet: O Death, Where Is Thy Sting - James Bowman
25. Chorus: But Thanks Be To God - James Bowman
26. Air: If God Be For Us - James Bowman
27. Chorus: Worthy Is The Lamb That Was Slain...Amen - James Bowman

Tracks:

1. Orchestra: Largo Assai - David Thomas
2. The Sons Of Israel Do Mourn - David Thomas
3. How Is The Mighty Fall'n! - David Thomas
4. He Put On Righteousness - David Thomas
5. When The Ear Heard Him - David Thomas
6. How Is The Mighty Fall'n! - David Thomas
7. He Deliver'd The Poor That Dried! - David Thomas
8. How Is The Mighty Fall'n! - David Thomas
9. The Righteous Shall Be Had In Everlasting Remembrance - David Thomas
10. Their Bodies Are Buried In Peace - David Thomas
11. The People Will Tell Of Their Wisdom - David Thomas
12. They Shall Recieve A Glorious Kingdom - David Thomas
13. The Merciful Goodness Of The Lord Endureth For Ever - David Thomas
14. Recitative: Now There Arose A New King Over Egypt - David Thomas
15. Chorus: And The Children Os Israel Sighed - David Thomas
16. Recitative: Then Sent He Moses, His Servant - David Thomas
17. Chorus: They Loathed To Drink Of The River - David Thomas
18. Air: Their Land Brought Forth Frogs - David Thomas
19. Chorus: He Spake The Word - David Thomas
20. Chorus: He Gave Them Hailstones For Rain - David Thomas
21. Chorus: He Sent A Thick Darkness Over All The Land - David Thomas
22. Chorus: He Smote All The First-Born Of Egypt - David Thomas

Tracks:

1. Chorus: But As For His People, He Led Them Forth Like Sheep - David Thomas
2. Chorus: Egypt Was Glad When They Departed - David Thomas
3. Chorus: He Rebuked The Red Sea, And It Was Dried Up - David Thomas
4. He Led Through The Deep - David Thomas
5. But The Waters Overwhelmed Their Enemies - David Thomas
6. Chorus: And Israel Saw That Great Work - David Thomas
7. And Believed The Lord And His Servant Moses - David Thomas
8. Introitus (Chorus): Moses And The Children Of Israel Sung This Song - David Thomas
9. I Will Sing Unto The Lord - David Thomas
10. Duet: The Lord Is My Strengh And My Song - David Thomas
11. Chorus: He Is My God - David Thomas
12. And I Will Exalt Him - David Thomas
13. Duet: The Lord Is A Man Of War - David Thomas
14. Chorus: The Depths Have Covered Them - David Thomas
15. Chorus: Thy Right hand, O Lord, Is Become Glorious - David Thomas
16. And In The Greatness Of Thine Excellency - David Thomas
17. Thou Sentest Forth Thy Wrath - David Thomas
18. Chorus: And With The Blast Of Thy Nostrils - David Thomas
19. Air: The Enemy Said, I Will Pursue - David Thomas
20. Air: Thou Didst Blow With The Wind - David Thomas
21. Chorus: Who Is Like Unto Thee - David Thomas
22. The Earth Swallowed Them - David Thomas
23. Duet: Thou In Thy Mercy Hast Led Forth Thy People - David Thomas
24. Chorus: The People Shall Hear, And Be Afraid - David Thomas
25. Air: Thou Shalt Bring Them In - David Thomas
26. Chorus: The Lord Shall Reign For Ever And Ever - David Thomas
27. Recitative: For The Horse Of Pharaoh Went In - David Thomas
28. Chorus: The Lord Shall Reign For Ever And Ever - David Thomas
29. Recitative: And Miriam The Prophetess - David Thomas
30. Solo: Sing Ye To The Lord - David Thomas

Customer Reviews:

Wonderful oratorios.......2005-09-28

I own the two oratorios separately. I bought first Messiah because I needed a reference recording for our choir performance on Christmas 2000, and my then choir director recommended the Tavener Choir and Players. I followed his suggestion and I must say that to this day I haven't regretted it. It's very balanced in tempi, never too quick neither too slow as other recordings I have heard like the Gardiner or Sawallisch ones. Every time we schedule Messiah for a concert I keep coming back to it to get into the proper mood for singing. The cast of singers is really excellent - there is a counter-tenor sharing the mezzo/alto role with a mezzo (which is quite unusual but refreshing anyway) as well as two soprans sharing role too, which usually other recordings don't have. But everyone of them is magnificent, though I tend to have a partiality towards the bass, David Thomas, specially regarding the arias "The trumpet shall sound" and "Why do the nations". Such a booming voice, and such a homogeneous sound in all of his fach.

Having such good opinion of the ensemble, I went for the Israel in Egypt, which was a discovery. Some of the singers are the same
as in the Messiah cast, and includes Anthony Rolfe Johnson and Nancy Argenta...which are an added plus. Unfortunately, there is no mezzo/alto in this recording but a counter-tenor...sigh... There are two soprans and two basses sharing roles as well. Tenor and alto are just one singer each. I have been said that it is quite rare to find a whole recording of this score, since its excerpts are usually used to "make up" for a complete recording together with other pieces by Handel. The work in itself is very much like Handel, full of sensitivity and the exact amount of sadness - "The ways of Zion do mourn" makes my hairs stand on end, thrills me so! - and weird humor, like when telling about the 7 plagues Yahwe send to Egypt in order to make the Pharaoh free the Israelites... "Their land brought forth frogs" starts with the violins sounding like leaping frogs! And I have named just a few of the pieces. It is really an adquisition worth your money.

Wonderful execution and extraordinary value.......2005-04-20

Andrew Parrott's recordings of Handel's "Messiah" and "Israel in Egypt" are reintroduced in this budget box that has so much going for it that no version extant can really compare in terms of musical value, execution of the score and dollar value. At a list price of $17 -- and usually available for less than that -- this four-disk set presents a tremendous value to lovers of this music.

Parrott's rendition of the less often recorded "Isreal in Egypt" Passover story is still considered by most critics to sit at or near the pinnacle with Gardiner's two versions. I have owned the second Gardiner recording along with those lead by Christophers, Cleobury and Preston and none exceeds the singing and musical performance of this one.

His "Messiah" is every bit its counterpart and ranks ahead of other versions I've owned in recent years including the beautifully sung but controversial recording of Marriner, Academy & Chorus of St. Martin-in-the-Fields with Elly Ameling, Anna Reynolds, Philip Langridge, Gwynne Howell; the energetic period performance on DG with Pinnock leading the English Concert & Choir, Arleen Auger, Anne Sofie von Otter, Michael Chance, Howard Crook & John Tomlinson; and the noisy old version by Beecham that big band lovers still cling to.

Parrott's recordings include some of the best early music singers in Europe including the clarion voice of Emma Kirkby, Nancy Argenta, tenor Anthony Rolfe Johnson and bass David Thomas. The inclusion of parts for countertenor James Bowman to sing bass arias in "Messiah" is more controversial but does little to diminish the positive overall effect.

What I enjoy most about these performances is that, even though they are period performances, Parrott romanticizes the music and allows his singers to use vibrato. A complete absence of rapid fire speeds in the two performances allows the music to bloom and breathe. Indeed, his "Hallelujah" chorus in "Messiah" in a massive performance more befitting the old days of 200 member choirs than the lean and mean approach by most pedantics!

Parrott's approach remians authentic by including the original score of "Israel in Egypt" including the first part "Lamentation of the Isrealties for the Death of Joseph". Listeners that, like me, do not particularly care for this section can skip ahead to track 14 of disk 3 and begin at the more conventional "Exodus" section. In either case the performance is a stunning winner.

It's not often I come across a CD where I don't find something objectionable but this set is about as good as it gets. The performances both rank in the top drawer of currently available CDs. While the recordings, made in 1989 and 1990, are not the quality of today's best digital remakes and may take a little treble taming at the beginning of "Isreal: Exodus", they are more than adequate.

The one noticeable downside is the lack of a vocal score and only skimpy notes given in a couple languages. Complete track listings are included, however, and the English is so good throughout this set that you won't need the score to understand what's going on, whether you're listening to it at home, at work or in the car.

With extremely lucid direction by Parrott and the engineers, matched with some of the best singing I've heard in these scores, this is a set you can listen to repeatedly. I can't imagine another set that is better than this one, especially for $17 or less.

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