Reveries

Amazon.com
Though he's penned hits for international pop stars like Adriano Centelano and Patty Pravo, the Italian-born singer/composer/pianist/lyricist Paolo Conte has been one of the world's most successful and idiosyncratic multilingual artists since 1974. His gruff and gravel-like voice is a soulful and sardonic synthesis of Louis Armstrong's down-home delivery and Tom Wait's quirky inflections, whether he's singing in his native Italian, French or English. Of the more than 20 albums he's recorded as a leader, his best include Appunti Di Vaggio, Un Gelato Al Limon, and 900. His new CD is a collection of new versions of his classic tracks from his vast catalog, and his liberal mixing of stylistic genres give him a passport to a number of musical ports-of-call. Backed by a rhythm section augmented by French horn, accordion, saxophone and trombone, Conte spins new melodic webs on the moody, midtempo title track, the tango-tinged "L'Avance," the subtropical swing of "Sudamerica," the colorful Cuban rumba on "Dancing," and the elegant Parisian chanson"Parigi." They highlight Conte's fluid and formidable musical esperanto. It doesn't matter what tongue he's singing in: his pathos easily translates into a universal language that goes straight to the heart. --Eugene Holley, Jr.

Product Description
2003 album features 12 brand-new recordings, plus four tracks drawn from earlier albums released only in Europe. Packaged in a slipcase. Nonesuch.

Tracks:

Gymnopedie No.1
Gymnopedie No.2
Gymnopedie No.3
Gnossienne No.1
Gnossienne No.2
Gnossienne No.3
Gnossienne No.4
Gnossienne No.5
Gnossienne No.6
Nocturne I
Nocturne II
Nocturne III
Nocturne IV
Nocturne V
Avant-Dernieres Pens: I. Idylle, A Debussy/II. Aubade, A Paul Dukas/III. Meditation, A Albert...
Pieces Froides-Trois Airs A Fuir
Pieces Froides-Trois Danses De Travers
Deux Reveries Nocturnes
Prde De la Porte He Du Ciel - Pascal Roge P

Customer Reviews:

sparse.......2007-03-11

If you enjoy simple accoustic piano arrangements played simply and beautifully you will enjoy this music.Satie has a moody and haunting way with his compositions

After the Rain...The Soft Sounds of Erik Satie.......2007-02-15

Excellent rendition of intimate Satie. Very evocative of Paris. Cool and quiet.

Such beautiful music.......2007-01-12

Eric Satie has composed some of the most beautiful music in the world. One of the few musical pieces that bring out real emotion in me.

nice.......2007-01-05

a good introduction to satie's music. Well played, excellent recording.
Nuff said!

Meditative Satie.......2006-12-24

As with any composer there are many ways to competently interpret their work. If you like Satie's music played to bring out its meditative, dreamy qualities, this is the recording for you.

Average customer rating:

Gravelly, gruff, tough, cool, world-wise, and playful old guy
I am speachless (which, if you knew me, is unusual)!
Il 'conte' per piacere!
Bzzzzzzzzzzap
Italy's finest cabaret pop stylist

Reveries
Paolo Conte
Manufacturer: Nonesuch
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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The Best of Paolo Conte
Elegia
Aguaplano
900
Sparring Partner

ASIN: B00008V61F
Release Date: 2003-04-15

Tracks:

Reveries
Gioco D'Azzardo
Dancing
Aguaplano
Nord
I Giardini Pensili Hanno Fatto Il Loro Tempo
Fuga All' Inglese
Madeleine
Blue Tangos
Novecento
L'avance
Sudamerica
Parigi
Chiamami Adesso
Diavolo Rosso
Come Mi Vuoi

Amazon.com

Though he's penned hits for international pop stars like Adriano Centelano and Patty Pravo, the Italian-born singer/composer/pianist/lyricist Paolo Conte has been one of the world's most successful and idiosyncratic multilingual artists since 1974. His gruff and gravel-like voice is a soulful and sardonic synthesis of Louis Armstrong's down-home delivery and Tom Wait's quirky inflections, whether he's singing in his native Italian, French or English. Of the more than 20 albums he's recorded as a leader, his best include Appunti Di Vaggio, Un Gelato Al Limon, and 900. His new CD is a collection of new versions of his classic tracks from his vast catalog, and his liberal mixing of stylistic genres give him a passport to a number of musical ports-of-call. Backed by a rhythm section augmented by French horn, accordion, saxophone and trombone, Conte spins new melodic webs on the moody, midtempo title track, the tango-tinged "L'Avance," the subtropical swing of "Sudamerica," the colorful Cuban rumba on "Dancing," and the elegant Parisian chanson"Parigi." They highlight Conte's fluid and formidable musical esperanto. It doesn't matter what tongue he's singing in: his pathos easily translates into a universal language that goes straight to the heart. --Eugene Holley, Jr.

Album Description

2003 album features 12 brand-new recordings, plus four tracks drawn from earlier albums released only in Europe. Packaged in a slipcase. Nonesuch.

Customer Reviews:

Gravelly, gruff, tough, cool, world-wise, and playful old guy .......2006-03-23

Excellent. Not a torch singer or boulevardier as I normally think of one. In no way debonair--less suave, more American. Think Jean Paul Belmondo or Jean Reno. Looser and less midstream pop. Variety of Latin rhythms. European cabaret/Cirque du Soleil settings with just enough dissonance to stay out of trouble. Gravelly, gruff, tough, cool, world-wise, and playful old guy declaiming as much as singing. Stand-outs: tr 3-Dancing (electric tensions hold several layers in sync); tr 15-Diavolo rosso (klezmer cattle drive) [69:04]

I am speachless (which, if you knew me, is unusual)!.......2004-03-01

This one, for my money, is even better than Paolo's "Best of", which is excellent in its own right. Besides wonderful songs, in a great variety of styles, and his individual voice, this disk has a veritable cornucopia of instruments. The first three tracks have baritone sax solos, a greatly underused instrument in my opinion.

The list of instruments used here is: piano, guitar, double bass, drums, percussion, synthesizer, soprano, alto, contralto, tenor and baritone saxophones, trombone, trumpet, oboe, French horn, clarinet, flute, violin, viola, cello, electric guitar, electric bass, ukulele, accordion, bandoncon and kazoo! Whew! I've never heard of a contralto sax before.

I took me some time to get beyond the first three tracks, which are individually excellent. When I did venture further, I found many other gems. I cannot say there is a single track that is not worth listening to, which I find highly unusual. I tend to listen to the whole album, which is not my usual approach when playing CDs

I guess you could say I like this CD!

Il 'conte' per piacere!.......2004-01-20

Though I heard Paolo Conte on th radio, it wasn't until the Best Of album that I became a serious listener and admirer of the Lawyer - Singer from Torino. He combines very interesting melodies with beautiful orchestration, a masculine voice and lyrics that make you think. As another reviewer suggested Reveries might be an even better album than "The Best" from 1998. It features re-structured and orchestrated classic hits from Conte's long career like "Dancing", and my personal favorite "Aguaplano". Indeed, I recommend getting the album for that song alone. I also love the melancholic "Paris" and "Chiamami". I've owned this album for over a year and enjoy it every time I listen to it.

Bzzzzzzzzzzap.......2003-10-01

There you are with the latest Conte on the player, relaxing in the recliner, with the headphones on, grooving to Paolo's raspy voice in your ears, and then.....the kazoo cuts in. Instant grin material. Was first introduced to PC on an all jazz FM station when they played Lemon Gelato. Next step was to the library and I was hooked. He is a TALENT! And for those into good performers try Mariza, an upcoming Portugese Fado singer. Another great voice/performer. Happy listening.

Italy's finest cabaret pop stylist.......2003-04-29

A delightful followup to his previous American release (1998's "Best Of" collection) which shows Conte's continuing playfulness, passion and original and engaging musical arrangements. An immensely appealing performer, whose work is surprisingly and consistently enchanting. Recommended!

Average customer rating:

maturing and experimental...
Altered Mind Material
One of '05's best? Of course!
starting to sound a lot like their friends Porcupine Tree
Another Opeth Masterpiece

Ghost Reveries
Opeth
Manufacturer: Roadrunner Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Damnation
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ASIN: B000AADYYO
Release Date: 2005-08-30

Tracks:

Ghost Of Perdition
The Baying Of The Hounds
Beneath The Mire
Atonement
Reverie/Harlequin Forest
Hours Of Wealth
The Grand Conjuration
Isolation Years

Amazon.com

Opeth's Ghost Reveries is a Prog/Death masterstroke, becoming more simplistic in places while expanding the overall template. Having explored their split personalities in great detail on Deliverance and Damnation, Opeth pulls them back together for Ghost Reveries, and in the process they have once again upped the ante on what a Death Metal band can accomplish. While there is a bolder use of instrumentation on this release, the rhythms and time changes have simplified just a bit, giving the songs on Ghost Reveries a more direct impact. Both the harsher and softer aspects have made the band more well-rounded, from the rousing organ in "The Baying of the Hounds," to the use of Middle Eastern polyrhythms in the beautiful "Atonement." But the integration of the two styles does not mean the band has necessarily mellowed. The album opens with mere seconds of tranquility before blasting into the meat of "Ghost Of Perdition," and "The Grand Conjuration" is as dark and powerful as anything they've done. Opeth is a band that doesn't rest on its laurels, and Ghost Reveries is majestic, epic music. In smaller scope, it attempts to do what Dark Side of the Moon and Physical Graffiti did for Pink Floyd and Led Zeppelin. This is a metal album that endeavors to move beyond its specific genre.-- Robert Arambel

Customer Reviews:

maturing and experimental..........2007-05-13

here we find the band in top form once more, doing what they do best...with new drummer and keyboardist to boot.

A well produced and consistent effort, if not arguably their best. They continue to lull the listner to the edge of their seat with anticipation of the deviations of atmosphere, mood and time signatures.

The experimentations continue and their sound continues to evolve, potentially ensnaring a larger fan base. The band now begins to walk the precipice of it's own continued success, but if what Akerfeldt says comes to fruition, the next outing may offer even slightly more bizarre experimentations in mood and atmospheric sound presentation.

An interview catches him expounding on the 2006 release of Scott Walker's "The Drift", which he cites as inspiration for the next album.

Having heard firsthand what Mikael describes as "a disturbing record", i can tell you that 68 minutes of that "record" is a diabolical and devastating dirge of sound which you'll not likely forget for your entire life (should you endeavor to indulge). That Opeth will use that album as a resource speaks to their committment to remaining on the tip of the spear, so to speak, of progressive metal. That will prove an elixir of continued youth for a band with too much left to say in the world of metal.

Altered Mind Material.......2007-03-23

Fancy words, a comma or two, some insightful experiences- none are needed. Opeth is from another world full of alien metal-playing beings who sent out their best band to enlighten our lives. That is all.

One of '05's best? Of course!.......2007-02-27

After falling in love with Blackwater Park, I bought every Opeth album I could find. I now own all of their albums except for Still Life (which I can't find anywhere). Opeth is quickly becoming my favorite bands, and this CD is no less incredible than their other works. Ghost Reveries also has some nice touches that I couldn't find in Opeth's other albums. There's a stronger growl from Mikael, more guitar solos, more audible (and better) bass (although their best bassist will always be Johan Defarfella who played on Morningrise), and some other stuff I can't think of. This is also their heaviest album since Deliverence, and the keyboardist that played with them on the Blackwater Park, Deliverence and Damnation tour is now an official member and played on this album.

Ghost Reveries, as many people seem to miss, is a concept album, like My Arms Your Hearse and Still Life. Don't believe me? Read the lyrics. As a reviewer stated below me, it's about a boy's turmoil after killing his own mother. Mikael Akerfeldt said he wanted to write the album with occult themes in it. It's actually quite interesting, really.

In Ghost of Perdition, the boy has killed his mother, and he is haunted by her ghost ("Ghost of mother!!!!"). The song is already fortelling the horrors he is going to face in the future ("To see a beloved son in despair of what's to come"). The song clocks in at just over 10 minutes. There is also some creepy moaning by Mikael near the end of the song over some bleak-sounding acoustic guitars.

Baying of the Hounds marks the point where the boy goes insane. After killing his mother, he sees the people around him as evil beings ("Pest-ridde jackals of the earth!"), as demons that want to kill him. A very cool intro combines with great musicianship makes this an awesome song.

In Beneath The Mire, he falls into depression. He thinks about the horrible thing he did ("Lost love of the heart in a holocaust memory"), and he sees himself as an evil thing that must be killed. I LOVE the middle-eastern sounding keyboards in the beginning, as the suit the song very well.

Atonement basically continues his depression and he states "Suddenly I can't justify what I had become." This is the first completely soft song on the album, with some tingling keyboard sounds.

In Reverie/Harlequin Forest, he leaves his home, feeling he can't trust anyone there ("Into the trees, past meadow grounds, and further away from my home. Baying behind me, I hear the hounds [the people from his village], flocks chasing to find me alone"). He isolates himself from the world, afraid to see what others will think of him, afraid that he'll be rejected ("I'm hiding away from the sun"). He gets stuck in the delusion that he's an outcast and is hated by others ("You are the laughing stock of the absent minded"). While out on his own he tries to find comfort in someone or something ("Nocturnally helpless and weak in the light, depending on a prayer, pacing roads to find a seed of hope."). Very heavy, and one of my favorite off the album.

Hours of Wealth is when he finally feels some joy, or relaxation ("found a way to rid myself clean of pain and the fever that's been haunting me has gone away"). This song is very jazzy sounding - it's basically Mikael singing softly over some keyboards. Very relaxing, until.....

...The Grand Conjuration! Definitely my favorite song off the album and the first song Opeth made a music video for. Mikael's voice is clean in the beginning, but later lets out his demonic death growls from hell. To be honest, I'm not quite sure what to make of this songor how it fits into the story. But based on some of the lyrics, I'd say the boy sees himself as a soldier of satan, on Earth to do cruel things to people. He wants someone to tell him otherwise, but no one does ("Say my name, ease the pain").

As Mikael said in an interview, Isolation Years has nothing to do with the story of the album, but he wanted it on the record. I personally think that this should have been a bonus track later released on a special edition of Ghost Reveries since it doesn't add to the story, but it's nonetheless a very good song. It's another soft song on the album, and talks about a woman named Rosemary who sends her lover a note that says she's going to die.

Ghost Reveries, while not my favorite by Opeth (that would probably be Morningrise), is a masterpiece of an album and should be recognized as among the best albums of 2005. Deep lyrics, bone-crushing instrumentation, and beautiful melodies have always been in Opeth's music, and they continue that trend here. They've never fit into a musicaly category, they still don't, and I hope they keep it that way. If you let the death metal growls keep you from listening to Opeth, I feel bad for you because you're missing out on some truly unique music. So go to your local Best Buy and buy Ghost Reveries, along with the rest of Opeth's catalogue.

starting to sound a lot like their friends Porcupine Tree.......2007-02-15

The mighty Opeth return with more hardcore and melodic arrangements that are sure to please their ravenous fans. Most songs pass the eight minute mark with dark and eerie instrumentals, as is the norm for them. Although Opeth sound more melodic than on previous efforts, they still unleash their inner-beasts whenever they please. They're starting to sound a lot like their friends Porcupine Tree.

Another Opeth Masterpiece.......2007-02-10

I am a fairly big Opeth fan, but am also fairly skeptical and critical of music but this CD really is genius. Each song on this CD is brilliant crafted and produced. Each solo laid down by Mikael Åkerfeldt and Peter Lindgren is pretty much awesome.
Comments on each song:

Ghost of Perdition - A great opener and although a 10 and a half minute epic every minute is worth it as the song fades from a powerful angry beginning into a melodic masterpiece into a furious finale.

The Baying of the Hounds - This song is fairly under appreciated but is actually very powerful and lyrically pretty cool.

Beneath the Mire - A chord based song, but rhythmically smooth and although it is slower, yet Mikael's death grunt really shines.

Atonement - It's funny to say this about an Opeth song but this song is very beautiful and melodic.

Reverie/Harlequin Forest - Interesting but unfortunately overshadowed by the other masterpieces present on this album.

Hours of Wealth - Ok. The entire album is a concept album, except the final song, the story of the album is a man's turmoil after killing his own mother (matricide if you will), and all the songs fit into this theme very well.

The Grand Conjuration - A brilliant finale, and a very dark song. This song is pure evil and pure awesome. It also has a brilliant solo and melodic segment.

Isolation Years - Technically not part of the plot of the album but still a nice closer.

In summary this album is amazing...buy it.

Average customer rating:

What is all the hype about?
great cd
My girls listen to this every night
I would give it more than 5 stars....
Great CD: soothing music by best performers. Worth every penny.

Baby Sleep

Manufacturer: Erato
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000005E5H
Release Date: 1997-04-22

Tracks:

Scenes Form Childhood: Foreign Lands And People
Scenes Form Childhood: Dreaming
Scenes Form Childhood: Child Falling Asleep
Dream Of Children: Andante
Dream Of Children: Allegretto Piacevole
Sicilienne
Study No. 5: Moderato
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Album Leaves: Cradlesong
Prelude In C Major - Bach
The Carnival Of Animals: The Swan
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Album for the Young: My Dear Little Mother - Tchaikovsky
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Melody
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Amazon.com

I think this music is intended for adults, though the photo on the cover is of a sleeping baby. In any event, Schumann's work, Scenes From Childhood, Op. 15, featured here is more likely to bolt you out of bed than put you to sleep, as the mike is far too close to the piano being played by Cyprien Katsaris. Purcell's Adagio from The Indian Queen is magnificent, performed by John Elliott Gardiner and the English Baroque Soloists. The Weird Award goes to triple harpist Tim Hobrough and lutenist Stephen Barber for their bizarre, spiky rendition of Minuets Nos. 4 and 5 from the Notebook of Anna Magdalena Bach. I would like to meet Bill Holland, producer of all these Atlantic Records classical compilations. He's programmed Satie's Gymnopedie No. 1 on three different CDs, billed alternately as sensuous, romantic, and now here: good for a long snooze. --Gwendolyn Freed

Customer Reviews:

What is all the hype about?.......2007-07-09

I purchased this CD on the basis of the reviews written on Amazon. I have to say I am terribly disappointed. My son hates the CD, I listened to it and I am not all that impressed either. It is ok but nothing like described by other users.

great cd.......2007-06-26

We play this cd every night at bedtime. It not only helps my baby stay asleep, but helps me fall asleep. The only issue I have is that one of the tracks near the end of the cd is a little louder than the tracks before it, so I just make sure I keep it on very quiet and it's wonderful.

My girls listen to this every night.......2006-11-10

My girls (ages 3 & 5) have a hard time winding down at night. We have a regular bedtime routine (bath, snack, teeth brushing, books, hugs), but they still take forever to settle down and sleep. Adding this CD to the bedtime routine has really helped.

I would give it more than 5 stars...........2005-11-18

I had this CD when my daughter was born 5 years ago, and it gave us such a soothing environment in which to bond during quiet times. We also put it on shortly before we'd put her down to sleep, and by 6 weeks she was sleeping through the night in her own crib. I think it was her sanctuary, and the music helped her feel comforted. We've since then completely worn out the CD (she listened to it through her 3rd year), and will have to buy a new one for our next little addition (coming soon!). I found it on this site and just listened to the samples from each track. Aahhh... very soothing for Mommy, too!
I also plan to get it as a baby gift for a friend. :)

Great CD: soothing music by best performers. Worth every penny........2005-08-05

I listened to this CD countless times ever since I first bought it from BMG music service back in 1997. Compositions of this CD are popular classical hits. That is, you will likely recognize at least some of them if you listen to the sampler.

What sets this CD apart is supreme music performance. Every composition is performed flawlessly, with real feeling and passion. There is a good reason why this CD that was released in 1997 is still around and costs over ten dollars. This reason is called quality.

Average customer rating:

Perfection in the hands of Opeth
"Ghost Reveries" plus so much more...
Still At The Helm Of Metal!!
soldier of furtune doesn't fit this album

Ghost Reveries
Opeth
Manufacturer: Roadrunner Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000FZESY4
Release Date: 2006-10-31

Tracks:

Ghost Of Perdition
The Baying Of The Hounds
Beneath The Mire
Atonement
Reverie/Harlequin Forest
Hours Of Wealth
The Grand Conjuration
Isolation Years
Soldier Of Fortune

Customer Reviews:

Perfection in the hands of Opeth.......2007-02-16

The prog/death masters are back. This record is amazing, by this time you'll know that and this special edition is a perfect celebration for the best metal record of 2005. Excellent 5.1 mix and the documental is great, more than forty minutes inside the creation of the record an interesting interviews.

The cover of Deep Purple is fantastic, excellent choice for a band that's open minded and with no limitations, great feeling.

Ghost Reveries is one of the best experiences you can find in music out there.

"Ghost Reveries" plus so much more..........2006-12-12

When I first listened to Opeth's Ghost Reveries, I was blown away by the level of maturity and musicianship the band had reached. I have also been equally impressed with Blackwater Park, Deliverance, Damnation, and every other Opeth album I have ever devoted my time to.

I was slightly hesitant to buy this special edition disc because I thought it may be a ploy by Roadrunner to cash in on their new prospect--especially after reading the negative reviews of the bonus track "Soldier of Fortune."

First of all, I am very impressed with the documentary. Clocking in at more than forty minutes, the documentary provides a peek into Mikael Akerfeldt's thoughts for the future and reminisces of the past. There is very little mention of Martin Axenrot, but more of Martin Lopez's mental issues are exposed in this documentary. Perhaps I was reading into his body language too much, but Martin seemed to achieve the lost look and unfocused swagger that only a truly depressed person can manage during his in-session footage. This documentary picks up very well to where the documentary on "Lamentations" ended.

The 5.1 mix of the CD is also well done. If you have stereo equipment capable of playing this format, this is another great aspect of this special edition CD.

The cover of Deep Purple's "Soldier of Fortune" makes a little more sense (at least to me) after watching the documentary where Mikael proclaims his newly-discovered love for the keyboards and his "clean" voice. I personally like the song even though it does not necessarily fit into the traditional sense of what an Opeth song should sound like. Just listen to it with an open mind...

If you do not own "Ghost Reveries," I would definitely start with this special edition. If you already own the regular version and are a fan of Opeth, pick this disc up for the documentary alone... The video to "The Grand Conjuration" is slightly interpretative, but it didn't add a lot of value for me.

If you found this review helpful (or not) please vote below:

Still At The Helm Of Metal!!.......2006-11-04

I bought this album because of the DVD.. and extra book pages and the packaging of this one hell of an album. GHOST REVERIES!! Indeed an astonishing album. My life have changed since the day I was exposed to Opeth in 2005. Then I realized I have been missing a whole lot.. I went to purchase all Opeth's back catalogues... Once you are a fan of Opeth you will be a fan for LIFE!!!!. I have a big Opeth's logo tattoo on my back.. and intend to get more.. I know Opeth will continuously put out quality music...Well as for this special edition.. I might say this is a great collection to add to your Opeth's library.. I don't even care much about soldier of fortune but appreciate it for Opeth's stepping out of their limelight and honored the legends. Opeth has always been a diversed group of people making music of diversed genre... Get a copy for yourself if you wanted to experience Opeth in 2006. Still A Brilliant Album!

soldier of furtune doesn't fit this album.......2006-11-04

well if your buying this for the bonus song you better hear on the song sample first, because it sucks, this is the first time opeth has ever let me down after being a long time fan. why they chose this song i have no idea but they could have at least picked something heavy instead of some stupid oldy goldie classic song thats slower than my grandmothers speech. the only reason i gave it a 4 star was because of the dvd is excellent to watch. just buy this for the dvd only.

Average customer rating:

The Simple, the Sublime, and the Surreal
Great complete set
the BEST

Satie: L'Oeuvre Pour Piano

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Ballets | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

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ASIN: B00005IA09
Release Date: 2002-02-12

Tracks:

Trois Gymnopedies: I. Lent Et Douloureux
Trois Gymnopedies: II. Lent Et Triste
Trois Gymnopedies: III. Lent Et Grave
Heures Seculaires Et Instantanees: I. Obstacles Venimeux
Heures Seculaires Et Instantanees: II. Crepuscule Matinal (De Midi)
Heures Seculaires Et Instantanees: III. Affolements Granitiques
Les Trois Valses Du Precieux Degoute: I. Sa Taille
Les Trois Valses Du Precieux Degoute: II. Son Binocle
Les Trois Valses Du Precieux Degoute: III. Ses Jambes
Avant-Dernieres Pensees: I. Idylle
Avant-Dernieres Pensees: II. Aubade
Avant-Dernieres Pensees: III. Meditation
Trois Gnossiennes: I. Lent
Trois Gnossiennes: II. Avec Etonnement
Trois Gnossiennes: III. Lent
Trois Morceaux En Forme De Poire: Maniere De Commencement
Trois Morceaux En Forme De Poire: Prolongation Du Meme
Trois Morceaux En Forme De Poire: I. Lentement
Trois Morceaux En Forme De Poire: II. Enleve
Trois Morceaux En Forme De Poire: III. Brutal
Trois Morceaux En Forme De Poire: En Plus
Trois Morceaux En Forme De Poire: Redite
Croquis Et Agaceries D'Un Gros Bonhomme En Bois: I. Tyrolienne Turque
Croquis Et Agaceries D'Un Gros Bonhomme En Bois: II. Danse Maigre (A La Maniere De Ces Messieurs)
Croquis Et Agaceries D'Un Gros Bonhomme En Bois: III. Espanana (Sorte De Valse)
Trois Nocturnes: I. Doux Et Calme
Trois Nocturnes: II. Simplement
Trois Nocturnes: III. Un Peu Movt
La Belle Excentrique, Fant Serieuse: I. Grande Ritournelle
La Belle Excentrique, Fant Serieuse: II. Marche Franco-Lunaire
La Belle Excentrique, Fant Serieuse: Valse Du Mysterieux Baiser Dans L'Oeil
La Belle Excentrique, Fant Serieuse: Cancan 'Grandmondain'

Tracks:

Descriptions Automatiques: I. Sur Un Vaisseau
Descriptions Automatiques: II. Sur Une Lanterne
Descriptions Automatiques: III. Sur Un Casque
Veritables Prlds Flasques: I. Severe Reprimande
Veritables Prlds Flasques: II. Seul A La Maison
Veritables Prlds Flasques: III. On Joue
Vieux Sequins Et Vieilles Cuirasses: I. Chez Le Marchand D'or (Venise XIIIe Siecle)
Vieux Sequins Et Vieilles Cuirasses: II. Danse Cuirassee (Periode Grecque)
Vieux Sequins Et Vieilles Cuirasses: III. La Defaite Des Cimbres (Cauchemar)
En Habit De Cheval: I. Choral
En Habit De Cheval: II. Fugue Litanique
En Habit De Cheval: III. Autre Choral
En Habit De Cheval: IV. Fugue De Papier
Sports Et Divertissements: Choral Inappetissant
Sports Et Divertissements: La Balancoire
Sports Et Divertissements: La Chasse
Sports Et Divertissements: La Comedie Italienne (A La Napolitaine)
Sports Et Divertissements: Le Reveil De La Mariee
Sports Et Divertissements: Colin-Maillard
Sports Et Divertissements: La Peche
Sports Et Divertissements: Le Yachting
Sports Et Divertissements: Le Bain De Mer
Sports Et Divertissements: Le Carnaval
Sports Et Divertissements: Le Golf
Sports Et Divertissements: La Pieuvre
Sports Et Divertissements: Les Courses
Sports Et Divertissements: Les Quatre Coins
Sports Et Divertissements: Le Pique-nique
Sports Et Divertissements: Le Water-chute
Sports Et Divertissements: Le Tango
Sports Et Divertissements: Le Traineau
Sports Et Divertissements: Le Flirt
Sports Et Divertissements: Le Feu D'artifice
Sports Et Divertissements: Le Tennis
Chapitres Tournes En Tous Sens: I. Celle Qui Parle Trop
Chapitres Tournes En Tous Sens: II. Le Porteur De Grosses Pierres
Chapitres Tournes En Tous Sens: III. Regrets Des Enfermes (Jonas Et Latude)
Apercus Desagreables: I. Pastorale
Apercus Desagreables: II. Choral
Apercus Desagreables: III. Fugue
Embryons Desseches: I. D'Holothurie
Embryons Desseches: II. D' Edriophtalma
Embryons Desseches: III. De Podophtalma
Trois Sarabandes: No.1
Trois Sarabandes: No.2
Trois Sarabandes: No.3

Tracks:

Prlds Flasques: I. Voix D'interieur
Prlds Flasques: II. Idylle Cynique
Prlds Flasques: III. Chanson Canine
Prlds Flasques: IV. Avec Camaraderie
Reverie De L'enfance De Pantagruel
Les Pantins Dansent
Passacaille (Oeuvre Posthume)
Le Piege De Meduse (Oeuvre Posthume): Quadrille/Valse/Pas Vite/Mazurka/Un Peu Vif/Polka/Quadrille
Menus Propos Enfantins: I. Le Chant Guerrier Du Roi Des Haricots
Menus Propos Enfantins: II. Ce Que Dit La Petite Princesse Des Tulipes
Menus Propos Enfantins: III. Valse Du Chocolat Aux Amandes
Enfantillages Pittoresques: I. Petit Prld A La Journee
Enfantillages Pittoresques: II. Berceuse
Enfantillages Pittoresques: III. Marche Du Grand Escalier
Peccadilles Importunes: I. Etre Jaloux De Son Camarade Qui A Une Grosse Tete
Peccadilles Importunes: II. Lui Manger Sa Tartine
Peccadilles Importunes: III. Profiter De Ce Qu'il A Des Cors Aux Pieds Pour Lui Prendre Son Cerceau
Pieces Froides, No.1 - Trois Airs A Faire Fuir: I. D'Une Maniere Particuliere
Pieces Froides, No.1 - Trois Airs A Faire Fuir: II. Modestement
Pieces Froides, No.1 - Trois Airs A Faire Fuir: III. S'inviter
Pieces Froides, No.2 - Danses De Travers: I. En Y Regardant A Deux Fois
Pieces Froides, No.2 - Danses De Travers: II. Passer
Pieces Froides, No.2 - Danses De Travers: III. Encore
Prld En Tapisserie
Trois Gnossiennes: No.4 Lent
Trois Gnossiennes: No.5 Modere
Trois Gnossiennes: No.6 Avec Conviction Et Avec Une Tristesse Rigoureuse
Nouvelles Pieces Froides: I. Sur Un Mur
Nouvelles Pieces Froides: II. Sur Un Arbre
Nouvelles Pieces Froides: III. Sur Un Pont
Premiere Pensee De La Rose+Croix
Sonneries De La Rose+Croix: I. Air De L'Ordre
Sonneries De La Rose+Croix: II. Air Du Grand Maitre
Sonneries De La Rose+Croix: III. Air Du Grand Prieur
Deux Reveries Nocturnes: I. Pas Vite (Revez Doucement)
Deux Reveries Nocturnes: II. Tres Moderement

Tracks:

Petite Ov A Danser
Quatre Prlds: I. Fete Donnee Par Des Chevaliers Normands En L'Honneur D'Une Jeune Demoiselle
Quatre Prlds: II. Prld D'Eginhard
Quatre Prlds: III. 1er Prld Du Nazareen
Quatre Prlds: IV. 2eme Prld Du Nazareen
Le Fils Des Etoiles, Wagnerie Kaldeenne Du Sar Peladan: Prld Du 1er Acte: La Vocation
Le Fils Des Etoiles, Wagnerie Kaldeenne Du Sar Peladan: Prld Du 2eme Acte: L'Initiation
Le Fils Des Etoiles, Wagnerie Kaldeenne Du Sar Peladan: Prld Du 3eme Acte: L'Incantation
Jack In The Box: I. Prld
Jack In The Box: II. Entracte
Jack In The Box: Final
Desepoir Agreable
Effronterie
Poesie
Prld Canin
Profondeur
Songe Creux
Prld De La Porte Heroique De Ciel
Musiques Intimes Et Secretes: Nostalgie
Musiques Intimes Et Secretes: Froide Songerie
Musiques Intimes Et Secretes: Facheux Exemple
Carnet D'esquisses Et De Croquis (Air - Essais - * - Notes - Notes - Le Prisonnier Maussade...

Tracks:

Premier Menuet
Nocturne No.4
Nocturne No.5
Trois Petites Pieces Montees: De L'Enfance De Pantagruel (Reverie)
Trois Petites Pieces Montees: Marche De Cocagne (Demarche)
Trois Petites Pieces Montees: Jeux De Gargantua (Colin De Polka)
Ogives: Premiere Ogive
Ogives: Deuxieme Ogive
Ogives: Troisieme Ogive
Ogives: Quatrieme Ogive
Danses Gothiques: No.1 A L'Occasion D'Une Grande Peine
Danses Gothiques: No.2 Dans Laquelle Les Peres De La Tres Veritable Et Tres Sainte Eglise Sont...
Danses Gothiques: No.3 En Faveur D'Un Malheureux
Danses Gothiques: No.4 A Propos De Saint-Bernard Et Sainte-Lucie
Danses Gothiques: No.5 Pour Les Pauvres Trespasses
Danses Gothiques: No.6 Ou Il Est Question Du Pardon Des Injures Recues
Danses Gothiques: No.7 Par Pitie Pour Les Ivrognes, Honteux Debauches, Imparfaits, Desagreables...
Danses Gothiques: No.8 En Le Haut Honneur Du Venere Saint-Michel, Le Gracieux Archange
Danses Gothiques: No.9 Apres Avoir Obtenu La Remise De Ses Fautes
Sonatine Bureaucratique
Poudre D'Or, Valse
Pages Mystiques: I. Priere
Pages Mystiques: II. Vexations
Pages Mystiques: III. Harmonies
Douze Petits Chorals

Amazon.com

Pianist Aldo Ciccolini garnered lots of attention in the late 1960s and early 1970s when he recorded all of Erik Satie's original piano music for EMI. The cycle remains first choice for Satie fans, who certainly will welcome its first complete (as opposed to excerpted) reissue on CD. Ciccolini's interpretations are paradigms of expressive economy and directness, and happily eschew the "let's see how slow and important I can make these works" attitude that sometimes prevails among younger Satie practitioners. Ciccolini's diamond-edged sonority, sparkling technique, and willingness to accept the composer's high quirk quotient at face value further enhance these performances. While Ciccolini admirably overdubs himself in the piano duet works, one misses the added color and ensemble give and take gained from Ciccolini's digital remakes partnered by Gabriel Tacchino. For the price, though, Satie fans can hardly go wrong. Don't let EMI's French-only annotations prevent you from acquiring this classic cycle. Get it while you can. --Jed Distler

Customer Reviews:

The Simple, the Sublime, and the Surreal.......2007-03-27

This collection makes for good listening. There is a great deal of variety and character (Oh, is there character!) to be found in the various pieces. While most people have likely heard one or more of Satie's Gymnopedies at the very least in the background music of a TV ad, this collection pulls together the rarely-heard piano pieces as well. One that I had been seeking, Vexations, is a short piece to be repeated 840 times.

The titles of the pieces bear witness to Satie's sense of humor, rebellion against conventions of the day, and his pleasure in the surreal. Translations help to enjoy the unusual titles (who could not love "Piece in the Form of a Pear"?), some of which are reminiscent of Magritte's monikers.

Aldo Ciccolini's performances are clear, with definite respect for the composer's works. There was a noticeable distinction between the tempi of the works that come "in threes", such as the Gymnopedies.

I found that this collection fit nicely on my iPod, allowing me to take it on the road and enjoy it wherever the mood struck me. In some cases, the juxtaposition of Satie's music with my whereabouts provided yet another dimension of surreal-ity that had to be savored. The fact that most of these piano pieces are brief lends them to shuffling with other styles.

While this collection is not for the casual listener to classical music, it does allow you to come into closer contact with one of the more unconventional minds of classical music. If you are serious about late 19th- or early 20th-century music, especially French music, or the influence of popular music on serious music, then this is not only for you, but a bargain as well.

Great complete set.......2004-11-21

This is the definitive Satie collection for piano. Well-recorded and well played. I am a fan of French Impressionism in all of its incarnations and appreciated getting a full set of Satie under one cover. However, not all of these interpretations are my favorites. The best Gnossienne, IMHO, is that of Reinbert de Leeuw. He takes it slow and draws everything out of that piece. Ciccolini's interpretation is rushed and not as melodic. However, the Ciccolini tempo works well on other pieces, such as the other Satie favorite, Gymnopédies.

All in all, this collection is well worth having for any Satie fan.

the BEST.......2003-04-21

Satie is a weirdo. Often overlooked by serious classical enthusiasts for a variety of reasons, he was an eccentric person and a very original composer. His quirky, playful temperament gave his pieces the intrigue they still hold today.

Aldo Ciccolini is the perfect pianist for these pieces. He seems to be the quintessential Satie interpreter. His playing is dazzling, crisp, and delightful. Aldo has a real knack for these sorts of french artists, and really seems to understand their style.

Tracks:

Allegro
Valse-Ballet 'Op.62'
Fantaise-Valse
1. (Lent) (A Monsieur Conrad Satie)
2. (Lent) (A Maurice Ravel)
3. (Lent)
1. Lent Et Douloureux (A Mademoiselle Jeanne De Bret)
2. Lent Et Triste (A Conrad Satie)
3. Lent Et Grave (A Charles Levade)
Fete Donnee Par Des Chevaliers Normands En l'Honneur D'Une Jeune Demoiselle
Maniere De Commencement
Prolongation Du Meme
Morceau I: Lentement
Morceau II: Enleve
Moreceau III: Brutal
En Plus
Redite
Premier Nocturne (A Madame Marcelle Meyer)
Deuxieme Nocturne (A Andre Salomon)
Troisieme Nocturne (A Madame Jean Hugo)
Quatrieme Nocturne (A Madame La Comtesse Etienne De Beaumont)
Cinquieme Nocturne (A Madame Georges Cocteau)
De L'Enfance De Pantagruel (Reverie)
Marche De Cocagne
Jeux De Gargantua (Coin De Polka)
Premier Menuet (A Claude Dubosq)
Idlle (A Debussy)
Aubade (A Paul Dukas)
Meditation (A Albert Roussel)

Tracks:

Premiere Ogive (A J.P. Contamine De Latour)
Deuxieme Ogive (A Charles Levade)
Troisieme Ogive (A Madame Clement Le Breton)
Quatrieme Ogive (A Conrad Satie)
Premiere Pensee Rose + Croix
Air De L'Ordre
Air Du Grand Maitre (Le Sar Josephin Peladan)
Air Du Grand Prieur (Le Comte Antoine De La Rochefoucauld)
Prelude Du 1 Acte: La Vocation. Theme Decoratif: La Nuit De Kaldee
Prelude Du 2 Acte: L'Initiation. Theme Decoratif: La Salle Basse Du Grand Temple
Prelude Du 3 Acte: L'Incantation. Theme Decoratif: La Terrasse Du Palais Du Patesi Goudea
Prelude Du Nazareen
Prelude Du Nazareen
Prelude
A L'Occasion D'Une Grande Peine
Dans Laquelle Les Peres De La Tres Veritable Et Tres Sainte Eglise Sont Invoques
En Faveur D'Un Malheureux
A Propos De Saint Bernard Et De Sainte Lucie
Pour Les Pauvres Trepasses
Ou Il Est Question De Pardon Des Injures Recues
Par Pitie Pour Les Ivrognes, Honteux, Debauches, Imparfaits, Desagreables, Et Faussaires En Tous Genres
En Le Haut Honneur Du Venere Saint Michel, Le Gracieux Archange
Apres Avoir Obtenu La Remise De Sis Fautes
Prelude
Priere
Vexations
Reverie Du Pauvre
Verset Laique & Somptuex

Tracks:

Caresse
Danse De Travers No.2 (Version 1)
Petite Musique De Clown Triste
The Dreamy Fish
Air
Essais
( - )
Notes
Notes
Le Prisonnier Maussade
Le Grand Singe
Exercices
Notes
Harmonies
Songerie Vers 'Jack'
Bribes
Choral
Exercices
Exercices
Exercices
Exercices
Esquisses & Sketch Montmartrois No.1. Petit Prelude De La 'Mort De Monsieur Mouche'
Esquisses & Sketch Montmartrois No.2 Un Peu Vif
Essais (Arriere-Propos)
Petite Danse
Desespoir Agreable
No.1 Effronterie
No.2 Poesie
Preludes Pour Un Chien: No.2 (Prelude Canin)
Profondeur
Songe-Creux
Passacaille
Prelude En Tapisserie
Nostalgie
Froide Songerie
Facheux Exemple
No.1
No.2
No.3
No.4
No.5
No.6a
No.6b
No.7
No.8
No.9
No.10
No.11
No.12 (1908-9)
Pas Vite
Tres Moderement
Pastorale (1912)
Choral (1908)
Fugue (1908)
Choral
Fugue Litanique
Autre Choral
Fugue De Papier

Tracks:

Sur Un Mur
Sur Un Arbre
Sur Un Pont
Voix D'Interieur
Idylle Cynique
Chanson Canine
Avec Camaraderie
Severe Reprimande
Seul A La Maison
On Joue
Sur Un Vaisseau (A Madame Fernand Dreyfus)
Sur Une Lanterne (A Madame Joseph Ravel)
Sur Un Casque (A Madame Paulette Darty)
D'Holothurie (A Mademoiselle Suzanne Roux)
D'Edriophthalma (A Monsieur Edouard Dreyfus)
De Podophthalma (A Madame Jane Mortier)
Tyrolienne Turque (A Mademoiselle Elvira Vines Soto)
Danse Maigre (A La Maniere De Ces Messieurs) (A Monsieur Fernando Vines Soto)
Espanana (A Mademoiselle Claude Emma Debussy)
Celle Qui Parle Trop
Le Porteur De Grosses Pierres
Regrets Des Enfermes (Jonas Et Latude)
Chez Le Marchand D'Or
Danse Cuirassee
La Defaite Des Cimbres
Allegro - Andante - Vivache
Chant Guerrier Du Roi Des Haricots
Ce Qui Dit La Petite Princesse Des Tulipes
Valse Du Chocolat Aux Amandes
Petite Prelude A La Journee
Berceuse
Marche Du Grand Escalier
Etre Jaloux De Son Camarade Qui A Une Grosse Tete
Lui Manger Sa Tartine
Profiter De Ce Qu'il A Des Cors Aux Pieds Pour Lui Prendre Son Cerceau
Le Vilain Petit Vaurien
Berceuse
La Gentille Toute Petite Fille
Choral Inappetissant (Grave)
La Balancoire (Lent)
La Chasse (Vif)
La Comedie Italienne (A La Napolitaine)
Le Reveil De La Mariee (Vif, Sans Trop)
Colin-Maillard (Petitement)
La Peche (Calme)
Le Yachting (Modere)
Le Bain De Mer (Mouvemente)
Le Carnaval (Leger)
Le Golf (Exalte)
La Pieuvre (Assez Vif)
Les Courses (Un Peu Vif)
Les Quatre-Coins (Joie Moderee)
Le Pique-nique (Dansant)
Le Water-Chute (Gracieusement)
Le Tango Perpetuel (Modere Et Tres Ennuye)
Le Traineau (Courez)
Le Flirt (Agite)
Le Feu D'Artifice (Rapide)
Le Tennis (Avec Ceremonie)
Obstacles Venimeux (Noiratre)
Crepuscule Matinal (De Midi) (Sans Grandeur)
Affolements Granitiques (Vivement)
Sa Taille (A Roland-Manuel)
Son Binocle (A Mademoiselle Linette Chalupt)
Ses Jambes (A Rene Chalupt)

Tracks:

Gnossienne No.5
Gnossienne No.1
Gnossienne No.3
Gnossienne No.4
Gnossienne No.2
Gnossienne No.6
D'une Maniere Particuliere
Modestement
S'Inviter
En Y Regardant A Deux Fois
Passer (Version 2)
Encore
Prelude
Entracte
Final
Petit Ouverture A Danser
Je Te Veux
Poudre D'or
Le Piccadilly (La Transatlantique). Marche
Quadrille
Valse
Pas Vite
Mazurka
Un Peu Vif
Polka
Quadrille
Les Pantins Dansent
Marche Franco-Lunaire
Grande Ritournelle
Valse Du Mysterieux Baiser Dans L'oeil'
Grande Ritournelle
Cancan Grand-Mondain

Customer Reviews:

Ciccolini Knows Satie.......2004-06-02

Aldo Ciccolini is arguably the greatest interpreter of Erik Satie, and he can also be credited with rescuing the minimalist from certain obscurity with the recordings he made of the composer's music in the late 1960s and early 1970s. For years I have enjoyed selections of those performances and I figured it was time to upgrade to a more complete set. As a result, I recently got this title. Unfortunately, this 5CD box set from EMI Classics collects Ciccolini's digital remakes of Satie's Piano Works, and not the original recordings of which I had grown so fond. (I have since discovered that a French Import of the complete original recordings is available.) The overall difference is minimal (yes, pun intended!) but I have to give the nod to the analog performances because of a slightly warmer, brighter sound. Also with a first time recording, there is an intangible element in the charting of new territory that I feel is never quite recaptured when revisited. With that being said, for the pieces requiring two pianists, the digital accounts are superior. While Ciccolini overdubbed himself originally, here he partners with Gabriel Tacchino to greater effect. In all, this is an excellent set by an unparalled master of Satie's music, but if I had to it over again I would have chosen the first incarnation.

Average customer rating:

Rêveries

Manufacturer: Polygram Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Sylvia McNair - The Echoing Air ~ The Music of Henry Purcell / AAM, Hogwood
Sylvia McNair: Love's Sweet Surrender (Mozart Arias)
Exsultate Jubilate and other Works by Handel and Mozart
Voices of our Time - Sylvia McNair / Roger Vignoles, Chatelet Opera
Sure Thing - The Jerome Kern Songbook / McNair, Previn

ASIN: B0000041KJ
Release Date: 1997-03-25

Tracks:

Ariettes Oubliees: C'est l'extase langoureuse
Ariettes Oubliees: Il pleure dans mon coeur
Ariettes Oubliees: L'ombre des arbres dans la riviere embrumee
Ariettes Oubliees: Paysages belges: Chevaux de bois
Ariettes Oubliees: Aquarelles: I. Green
Ariettes Oubliees: Aquarelles: II. Spleen
La coccinelle
Adieux de l'hotesse arabe
Pastel
Vous ne priez pas
Trois Melodies: 1. Pourquoi
Trois Melodies: 2. Le sourire
Trois Melodies: 3. La fiancee perdue
Reve d'amour
Au bord de l'eau
Notre amour
Bleuet Banalites
BANALITES: 2. Hotel
BANALITES: 4. Voyage a Paris
METAMORPHOSES: 1. Reine des mouettes
METAMORPHOSES: 2. C'est ainsi que tu es
METAMORPHOSES: 3. Paganini

Average customer rating:

Absolutely beautiful music and superb recording!
A Wonderful Surprise

Reveries

Manufacturer: Reference Recordings
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Pavanes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Quartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

French | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Choruses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Rachmaninoff: Symphonic Dances/ Vocalise/ Etudes-tableaux
Bolero: Orchestral Fireworks
Respighi: Belkis, Queen of Sheba
Exotic Dances from the Opera
Copland: Fanfare; Symphony No3

ASIN: B00006C2QH
Release Date: 2002-08-06

Customer Reviews:

Absolutely beautiful music and superb recording!.......2003-01-14

I first heard the first 3 tracks from NPR on one September day and was simply breathless. Especially with Satie's music, I only knew it being the piano solo without realizing that Debussy had orchestra arrangement for it. Furthermore I didn't realize that the orchestra interpretation can be so moving that it almost brought tears to my eyes. It's so beautiful and rich in sound, adding whole new dimensions to the original solo that I remember by heart.

I contacted the radio station inquiring about the CD and interestingly enough, the label happens to be one of the small recording companies. Luckily they have a website and from there I found myself a good deal through Amazon Marketplace.

The cd consists of music of slow tempo. Many familiar tracks now have new meanings to me. I'm also fond of track 6, the melody lingers on long afterwards. The last track is also by Satie. With the same the style and tempo as the opening track, it ends the CD nicely.

I'm so happy to own such a superbly recorded CD which is also the first one I played many times continueously. This has become my favourite possession among hundreds of my cds.

So please get a copy for yourself, find a quiet Sunday afternoon, have a cup of tea ready and emerge yourself in the breathtaking music......

A Wonderful Surprise.......2002-08-15

Reference Recordings' "Reveries" seems to be a significant departure from many of their prior releases, which for the most part have been works of extremely wide dynamic range. Also interesting, is that all the works selected for this album use a "andante" or "walking tempo".

The RR Website states the works selected are "Relaxing, beloved classics by Debussy, Satie, Ravel, Faurè, Tchaikovsky, Sibelius and more, beautifully played by one of America's great orchestras. A balm for jangled nerves, and excellent music for unwinding and dining!"

Personally, I don't purchase albums like the one described above. I generally want a good deal of "sturm und drang" in my music. But, I so much enjoyed the past three RR releases (Copland, Respighi, and Rachmaninoff) with Oue and the Minnesota, I couldn't resist. At a minimum I was curious how well Prof. Johnson captured the many subtle orchestra colors and sounds found in these works, and how well Oue and the Minnesota handled these (mostly) familiar "classics".

Instead of "relaxing", I found myself significantly impressed and surprised by the interpretations and quality of ensemble in some of the tracks on this disk. Even more surprising is how moved I was by them.

There are 12 tracks in all. Where this CD caught fire for me was track 7, Debussy's "Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun"; followed by track 9, Ravel's "Pavane for a Dead Princess"; track 11, Sibelius's "The Swan of Tuonela", and finally Saite's (as arranged by Debussy) "Gymnopedie No. 3".

I have long been familiar with all of the above, but have no particular recollection of connecting strongly with any of these works. I made the connection today. Perhaps the whole is greater then the sum of the parts. Like a "magic eye" picture, where out of a chaotic 2-D image emerges a coherent 3-D picture, perhaps the first 6 tracks were a perfect setup for what was to follow. The same might be true of the recording quality. As I listened to this CD, the "sound image" became more clear and realistic. By the end I was mostly under the illusion that I was in a live hall, a rare experience for me at home.

The orchestral playing is at times simply wonderful. I'm most impressed by how much commitment both the conductor and orchestra seem to bring to these very familiar, "relaxing" ;-) works. Since Oue is leaving the orchestra, this may be his last RR recording with the Minnesota (I hope not of course). If this is true, perhaps this caused the musicians to play with even more inspiration than I am accustomed. In particular a bravo goes to english horn player, Marni Hougham on the Sibelius.

Overall, this release is quite a pleasant surprise. I will look forward to hearing from anyone else who has listened to this disk, favorable or not.

George