Music of Upper & Lower Egypt [Live]

Editorial Reviews

From the Label
During the Grateful Dead's historic 1978 performances in Egypt, percussionist Mickey Hart set time aside to travel with longtime friend Hamza El Din and make field recordings of the country's richly varied folkloric music. The music of Egypt can be classified into four basic regional styles -- the southernmost style of the Aswan area, divided into Arabic-speaking Nubians and a Nubian-speaking sector divided into Mahasi and Mattokki; the style of Luxor, commonly known as Sa'ed; the style of El-Meniya to the Mediterranean Sea, called the Fellahim; and the urban music of such cities as Cairo and Alexandria.

The first four tracks of this exotically beautiful album hail from the Aswan region and typify a rhythm known as "moon fever." The first song celebrates the exhumation of a dignitary due to the flooding caused by the Aswan Dam. Two are wedding songs, and a fourth is a traditional religious song praising Allah.

A fifth track represents the folk music of Sa'ed, known for the great variety of instruments used in this joyful call-and-response style music generally heard at celebratory gatherings; the final track exemplifies the more western compositional style of modern popular forms.

Music of Upper & Lower Egypt,Various Artists,Rykodisc,Afro-Pop,Arabic,Egypt,Int'l & World Music,Middle East,Pop,Traditional,World Music
Glassworks
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • He works magic in film.
  • Glassworks is an amazing album
  • Great experiment of questionable musical value
  • Love - Hate Relationship
  • A Few Words on Glassworks
 Glassworks

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B0000CD5GV
Release Date: 2003-09-30

Tracks:

  1. Glassworks
  2. Glassworks
  3. Glassworks
  4. Glassworks
  5. Glassworks
  6. Glassworks
  7. In The Upper Room
  8. In The Upper Room
  9. In The Upper Room
  10. In The Upper Room
  11. In The Upper Room

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars He works magic in film........2007-03-25

Perhaps it is true that the work of Phillip Glass has been of ambiguous nature; many different subconsciousness that would be drawn to his music and many alike would be pulled back in similiar impact or just simply stand in plain confusion. His music works perfect for the medium of film, not because there is another medium 'filling up the void' in his style, but it's the commentary that it makes on the story while the film runs on its own. This music leaves much to the imagination of those filled with it, to tell their own story. It can handle almost anything one throws at it; irony, contradiction, pain, relief, comedic, anything, it will almost seem to work out well perfectly for certain individuals. Minimalism is a common label on this music, however it is precisely minimalism that leaves the mind to explore on its own. Classical greats like Bach, although in a similiar vein, still lay down the scenery in a more conspicuous manner than Glass. After all, this is contemporary art; and it will not work out well for those who do not have the audacity to create their own mental scenes but rather rely more on music for a more solid comprehension to come through.

5 out of 5 stars Glassworks is an amazing album.......2006-11-12

Although I'd heard of Philip Glass I was quite unaware of his music until I attended a performance of The Upper Room by the Washington Ballet in October 2006. The music is by Philip Glass and the choreography by Twyla Tharp. It was one of the most memorable artistic experiences of my life. It was incredible.

I subsequently purchased Glassworks and find the music to be extremely powerful. I recommend this album absolutely. I find most of the pieces on the album to be profoundly moving. The last movement from "The Upper Room" is especially powerful and significant.

2 out of 5 stars Great experiment of questionable musical value.......2006-01-30

Yes, arpeggios are great! Thank you, Philip. That is called harmony. But there also exists such thing as melody, you know. Maybe, you've heard of it. It's what some composers are famous for. I see that you know what it is. But you should definitely use it more often!

Let's start again... I absolutely love Opening. It's emotional, it's haunting, it's beautiful, and it's atmospheric. But what follows next... Really, Philip Glass could be a great etude composer. When I'm playing piano etudes, I'm always reminded of Glass' music. Some people say it's atmospheric, I say it's repetitive and boring. Hints of melody and style pierce the arpeggiated clouds on Island and Facades. But that's it.

If you want some good atmospheric minimalism, listen to Harold Budd or Brian Eno. If you want good post-modern influenced compositions, buy James Newton Howard's The Village score. You may want to buy Philip Glass' Glassworks if you can't live without the opening theme or want to find out what his music is about. I've found out. But right now I don't want to go any further...

5 out of 5 stars Love - Hate Relationship.......2006-01-17

Simply, the question is of the following: Is P. Glass one of the 20th century's most creative artists, lending a sublte poignancy to his pieces; or, on the other hand, is Glass merely the most overrated hack in classical music today, utilizing almost endlessly repeating arpeggios to the chagrin of the listener's ear (not to mention, patience)?

From my rating, I clearly fall into the first camp. However, the pleasure you will derive from this CD is undoubtedly personal and subjective, based upon both experience and taste. No doubt, the arguments on both side of the question are passionate and entrenched. I suggest, instead, that you listen to the tracks that Amazon provides. This will give you a sense as to whether you will love or hate the music.

As for my experience with the music, I agree with several fellow reviewers: Glass's methodology is wholeheartedly expressive, providing the composer with ample space to slowly build and play on different moods within the work, making the listener conscious of individual notes, instruments, and rhythms within the ensemble. The only thing I can think to compare this with is, perhaps, flavors. Either you can eat a piece of chocolate hurriedly and grasp the totality of its flavor; or you may calmly savor it and, perhaps, find a nice caramal center, unmask the interplay of various textures, and discover satisfaction in its simplicity.

Bear in mind, however, I approached Philip Glass after having a large exposure to Ravi Shankar and 'classical Indian' music. Some, not all, of the music is rhythmically repetitive. This experience, I think, predisposed me to liking Glass's compositions.

4 out of 5 stars A Few Words on Glassworks.......2005-12-21

In a joke email about the Mozart effect that a friend of mine recieved, the effect of several other composers' music on children was discussed as if it had an effect on the children like Mozart's music does. In "The Glass Effect", "a child tends to repeat him or herself over and over and over and over and over and over and over again." This is true, Glass's music, "Glassworks" in particular, is alarmingly repetitive. The reason that most people knock this set of pieces is because they are totally missing the point. Glass's music has been categorized in the realm of "minimalism." The point of minimalism is to do as much as possible with the least amount of music. Glass executes this agenda quite well with "Glassworks." Most people don't exactly realize what Glass is doing by repeating himself over and over again.

First of all people have to realize a few things about this music. Philip Glass did not intend on having this music being played in the background at your next dinner party. Leave that up to Bach and Mozart. What Glass did want with this piece was for mature listeners to realize what he has done with texture and simplicity. Also, Glass's works are not about melody. They are about texture and mood and atmosphere. Each piece has its own shape little additions keep the piece from becoming overly monotonous. I think that Glass has made a great musical statement with his set of pieces that should be carefully digested with an open mind.

For the most part, Glass's concept works. However, the second movement "Floe" could probably be axed or revised. This is the only movement that seems to get unbelivably monotonous. It's also a lot to digest at the beginning of the suite. If it came more towards the end before the closing as opposed to after the opening where it functions as more of a rhythmic pie in the face. Some of the movements could also stand to use a little more variation but for the most part, Glass keeps the pieces interesting.

I cannot say much about the other work, "In the Other Room" that appears on this album, because I own the original Glassworks album. I just wanted to clear up some of the misconceptions that many have about this different music. It's hard to say whether or not Glass's music will stand up to the same test of time as the music of the greats like Mozart's and Bach's, but things are not looking good for Glass, not because the music isn't good, but becuase too many ignorant people immediately dismiss it as garbage. It seems that if people openly knock this music like they do, the same people that put those parental advisory stickers on CDs might want to instigate a separate rating system. This one should be stickered with: "CDMA: Mature Audiences Only."
Stiff Upper Lip
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Stiff Upper Lip
  • This album is amazing
  • Rocks Hard But Uneven
  • AC/DC - 'Stiff Upper Lip' (Eastwest)
  • I like AC/DC but I hate this
 Stiff Upper Lip
AC/DC
Manufacturer: East/West Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B00004LN16
Release Date: 2000-02-29

Tracks:

  1. Stiff Upper Lip
  2. Meltdown
  3. House Of Jazz
  4. Hold Me Back
  5. Safe In New York City
  6. Can't Stand Still
  7. Can't Stop Rock 'N' Roll
  8. Satellite Blues
  9. Dammed
  10. Come And Get It
  11. All Screwed
  12. Give It Up

Amazon.com

Like death and taxes, you can count on AC/DC. The Australian metal men, unlike the more daring likes of Metallica, have stuck with one virtually unchanged formula since 1973. While '90s albums such as Who Made Who and Razor's Edge are uneven at best, the five-years-coming Stiff Upper Lip marks a return to the group's Back in Black prime. Muscular, meaty, and powerful, Stiff Upper Lip boasts a dozen instantly hard and heavy classics full of macho bravado, double entendres, and, of course, Angus Young's trademark guitar. From the archetypal title track to the more portentous "House of Jazz" to the forceful, irresistible syncopation of "I Feel Safe in New York City," AC/DC are again at the top of their game. --Katherine Turman

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Stiff Upper Lip .......2007-04-03

Good hard rock for your ears. Great big band with good themes: Satellite Blues, Stiff Upper Lip and Give It Up are the most remarkable.

5 out of 5 stars This album is amazing.......2007-03-17

Ok, so it's a little more mellow than your Highway to Hell or your Powerage, but this album just rocks. There are only two songs I don't like and they both come close to the end. Safe in New York City is their best song since Thunderstruck. Stiff Upper Lip improves on Ballbreaker. It has a similar sound. AC/DC sounds a bit different now, but I love it just as much as their old stuff.

3 out of 5 stars Rocks Hard But Uneven.......2007-02-02

After the last Ac/Dc release 'Ballbreaker' I was truly hoping for a comeback album in the league of 'The Razors Edge' but instead they released 'Stiff Upper Lip'...to be fair when I heard the first single on the radio the awesome title track 'Stiff Upper Lip' I was very encouraged,this song is right up there at the top of any list of great Ac/Dc songs,which I have noticed that the band has done since the very beginning,they have always put their strongest songs in the first couple spots on an album (with the only exception being the amazing 'Back In Black' where every song shines equally)
on this release,they follow 'Stiff Upper Lip' with a very cool shift in tempo 'Meltdown' it took me a few listens to really get into this song and I figured out why,it is a total shift from their normal style,this one grooves with subtlety,I like it and it lets the band breathe a little...the next song 'House Of Jazz' just plain confuses me,the music is rather dull and mundane but the lyrics have left me pondering why one of the world's greatest hard rock bands would write a song titled 'House Of Jazz' the chorus offers no explanation "welcome to the house of welcome to the house of welcome to the house of jazz" I suppose I'll never know the answer,it's a strange song and feels really out of place...this is followed by the albums high point 'Hold Me Back' which truly kicks serious [..],it has a beat that almost dares you to not get up and move what you got on a dance floor,the beginning guitar notes remind you a little bit of 'Sink The Pink' (one of my favorite Ac/Dc songs ever) the song builds up slowly and is just awesome,it keeps your foot tapping the whole way through...this is followed by 'Safe In New York City',okay,in the past I have cut them some slack because they are one of the only bands to stick to their guns and not change styles to fit the trends,I respect that,but this song has to be just about the dumbest lyrics I've ever heard,they just got lazy and didn't even try,listen to the chorus..they just didn't try,it just repeats the same phrase over and over and it makes no sense...this is followed by another great song 'Can't Stand Still' which is similar in feel to 'Hold Me Back' a great song that really makes you want to get up and dance,I love this one,from there 'Can't Stop Rock And Roll' perhaps one of the heaviest songs on the CD,this one is classic Ac/Dc and is similar to the feel of the 'Back In Black' album...'Satellite Blues' is okay,nothing that we haven't heard before but isn't awful,this is followed by 'Damned' which is pretty cool,a different kind of vibe but that's nice,this CD doesn't get as dull and boring as the last release 'Ballbreaker' did...this is followed by 'Come And Get It' now I really like this song,it has atmosphere and is very catchy and has a different feel from anything else on the CD,you can tell they did put effort into trying to make the songs sound different from one another...of course the curse of Ac/Dc albums is almost always the last couple songs are the worst and this is no exception...'All Screwed Up' and 'Give It Up' are not memorable at all and I find myself looking at the track numbers to see when the CD will end...over all this is not a bad CD,it's much better then the last release and much better then 'Blow Up Your Video' but it's more then a little uneven

the upside - the band really went for some different feels on this CD,some great classic tunes are included here 'Stiff Upper Lip' 'Hold Me Back' 'Can't Stand Still' and 'Come And Get It' being my personal favorites

the downside - lots of filler...and the overall production feels like the band was in a very small room,there is no space to it,it is lacking the tones that previous albums had,it sounds as if the recording equipment was completely different from past releases which is not really the band's fault but it does effect the listening experience

the bottom line - definitely worth having,especially if you are a true fan,'Stiff Upper Lip' and 'Hold Me Back' alone are worth buying this,however if you are looking for the classic Ac/Dc sound look elsewhere...people new to the band should start with 'Back In Black' 'Highway To Hell' and 'Dirty Deeds' and then move on to the rest of the catalog...this is a big step forward from 'Ballbreaker' but falls far short of their past glories...I really hope they release another big comeback CD like 'The Razors Edge' or 'Fly On The Wall' I have a feeling this great band as at least one more classic album left in them....Donutman says so!!!

5 out of 5 stars AC/DC - 'Stiff Upper Lip' (Eastwest).......2006-12-03

Review #273. Still waiting for Angus Young and crew's follow-up to this superb 2000 CD release. Just all around top of the game Australian meat-and-potato heavy metal.Some say that 'Stiff...' is JUST as good as their 1980 break-through 'Back In Black' album. I tend to agree with that. Tracks here that I found myself playing repeatedly were the title cut "Stiff Upper Lip", "Meltdown", "Hold Me Back", "Satellite Blues" and the outstanding steady rocker "Give It Up" (should've been a million selling single). Simply a must-have.

1 out of 5 stars I like AC/DC but I hate this.......2006-11-25

I like most of AC/DC's music, but I can't stand their latest album Stiff Upper Lip. Stiff Upper Lip is the only AC/DC album where you can play it all the way through, and not even hear one good song. Stiff Upper Lip doesn't even come close to being as good as Back in Black or Highway to Hell. Every song on it just bugs the heck out of me. Listening to one song off this album is enough to test my patience; but enduring all 12 of these musical abominations is enough to drive me crazy! The overall sound is very similar to their earlier albums like Highway to Hell or Back in Black. BUT...those CDs had variety, they were semi original, and they were actually pretty good. THIS CD is just completely worthless. I have heard some cra ppy CDs in my lifetime, but none of them were more pain to listen to than this. The vocalist sounds about 10 times worse than he did on their earlier albums, the music is chunky, repetitive, dull, and boring, and most of the songs sound the same. Stiff Upper Lip is so bland and dull sounding that it sounds more like the monotonous droning of an electric fan than a rock n roll band. The music is so repetitive and similar sounding that its more like listening to the same annoying song for 60 minutes than 12 separate tracks. This CD is just unbelievaby terrible. It is a disgrace to this band's legacy, and the band members should be embarrased by it. Oh well, I guess they probably only made this album because they needed to fulfill their record contract, so I guess they don't care about how awful it is anyway. All I can tell you potential buyers is to stay as far away from this piece of garbage as possible. It is a TOTAL piece of cr ap and it is not fit to listen to. Go buy a GOOD AC/DC CD like Let there Be Rock, High Voltage, Powerage, Highway to Hell, or Back in Black. Stiff Upper Lip suc ks so hard it leaves a big purple bruise. It's so awful I'd rather listen to the new Nickelback CD than this!
Stiff Upper Lip
Average customer rating: Not rated
    		Stiff Upper Lip
    AC , and DC
    Manufacturer: Sony
    ProductGroup: Music
    Binding: Audio CD

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    ASIN: B000NVI1IO
    Release Date: 2007-04-17

    Tracks:

    1. Stiff Upper Lip
    2. Meltdown
    3. House Of Jazz
    4. Hold Me Back
    5. Safe In New York City
    6. Can't Stand Still
    7. Can't Stop Rock 'N' Roll
    8. Satellite Blues
    9. Damned
    10. Come And Get It
    11. All Screwed Up
    12. Give It Up
    Leonin, Perotin: Sacred Music from Notre-Dame Cathedral
    Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
    • Nice
    • A Resounding Success
    • A Voice Feast from the Middle Ages
    		 Leonin, Perotin: Sacred Music from Notre-Dame Cathedral

    Manufacturer: Naxos
    ProductGroup: Music
    Binding: Audio CD

    GeneralGeneral | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
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    ASIN: B0009SQC8W
    Release Date: 2005-07-19

    Tracks:

    1. Beata Viscera
    2. Viderunt Omnes
    3. Viderunt Omnes
    4. (Plainchant) ... Fines Terre Salutare Dei ...
    5. (2-Part Organum) ... Notum Fecit ...
    6. ... Dominus ...
    7. ... Salutare Suum Ante Conspectum ...
    8. (Plainchant) ... Justitiam Suam
    9. (2-Part Organum) ...Viderunt Omnes ...
    10. (Plainchant) ... Fines Terre Salutare Dei ...
    11. (2-Part Organum) ... Notum Fecit ...
    12. ... Dominus ...
    13. (Plainchant) ... Justitiam Suam
    14. (2-Part Organum) ...Viderunt Omnes ...
    15. (Plainchant) ... Fines Terre Salutare Dei ...
    16. (2-Part Clausula): ... Dominus ...
    17. (2-Part Clausula): ... Dominus ...
    18. (2-Part Clausula): ... Dominus ...
    19. (2-Part Clausula): ... Dominus ...
    20. (2-Part Clausula): ... Dominus ...
    21. (2-Part Clausula): ... Dominus ...
    22. (2-Part Motet): Factum Est Salutare/
    23. (4-Part Organum): Viderunt Omnes ...
    24. (Plainchant) ... Fines Terre Salutare Dei ...
    25. (4-Part Organum): Notum Fecit ...
    26. ... Dominus ...
    27. .... Salutare Suum Ante Conspectum ...
    28. (Plainchant) ... Justitiam Suam
    29. (Plainchant): Viderunt Omnes ...
    30. (Organum After 9th-Century Scolica Enchiriadis)...
    31. (4-Part Organum): Sederunt Principes
    32. (4-Part Conductus): Vetus Abit Littera

    Customer Reviews:

    5 out of 5 stars Nice.......2006-11-04

    This is a very good example of Polyphony as practiced in Notre Dame .....

    5 out of 5 stars A Resounding Success .......2005-12-27

    If one read the album notes but failed to read the fine print on the rear of the jacket, one would likely assume that this recording was made in Notre Dame Cathedral, which it was not. It was recorded at Chancelade Abbey, Dordogne, France. (http://chapaq.free.fr/Congregations/Chancelade.htm)

    The notes mention the fact that both Leonin and Perotin worked at Notre Dame and were both responsible for the Organum. Organum is Polyphony used in liturgical music from the late 9th century to c. 1250.

    I bring this up because few people, even musicologists, understand the vital roles that acoustics and harmonics(overtones)played in the composition of sacred music until about the Seventeenth Century.

    The musicologist, Thurston Dart, summarizes the influence that reverberation has on composers:

    "But even a superficial study shows that early composers were very aware of the effect on their music of the surroundings in which it was to be performed, and that they deliberately shaped their music accordingly. Musical acoustics can be roughly divided into resonant, room and outdoor. Plainsong is resonant music; so is the harmonic style of Leonin and Perotin .. Perotin's music, in fact, is perfectly adapted to the acoustics of the highly resonant cathedral (Notre Dame Paris) for which it was written...."
    (Thurston Dart, musicologist, "The interpretation of Music",Hutchinson, London pp56-57 (1954).

    I think, like most 'moderns', Mr. Dart has got it backwards -- these composers were mostly aware of the effect of the surroundings upon their music. Composers like Leonin and Perotin and others, notably Allegri (composer of the famous "Miserere"), were more interested on the effect that the music, augmented by the acoustics, had on the congregation, in terms of literally uplifting their spirits and assisting them in participating directly in what was called the "Communion of Saints".


    E. Power Biggs said: "An organist will take al the reverberation time he is given, and then ask for a bit more.... Many of Bach's organ works are designed .... to explore reverberation. Consider the pause that follows the ornamented proclamation that opens the famous Toccata in D minor. Obviously this is for the enjoyment of the notes as they remain suspended in the air". Church music sounds wrong when performed in a small non-reverberant space with a lot of acoustic absorbent such as curtains and carpets."
    (http://www.acoustics.salford.ac.uk/acoustics_world/concert_hall_acoustics/acoustics_music.html)

    E. Power Biggs and the pundits at Salford University, assume that Bach and his predecessors valued acoustics and resonance primarily from the standpoint of aesthetics. In other words, they chose reverberant halls because their music sounded better when performed in them. I believe that they too are missing the point. Acoustic Archeologists, like John Reid and Paul Devereux are beginning to discover that ancient holy places, such as Stonehenge and also the Gothic Cathedrals, like Notre Dame de Paris, were actually tuned to resonate certain specific pitches or sound frequencies. They are or contain what are called "resonant chambers".

    A resonant chamber essentially reflects and amplifies or "empowers" certain specific frequencies, particularly when they are sung by a chorus (or congregation) of "pure voices" in unison. These frequencies and the harmonies reproduced by the reverberations elicited certain specific emotional responses, such as awe and reverence, from the assembly. I'm sure that Leonin and Perotin were well aware of the marvelous acoustics of Notre Dame and structured their music to take full advantage of it.

    After the invention of the printing press, increasingly more emphasis was placed on the written and spoken word. Music was no longer spontaneously created or improvised and less and more reverberant acoustics only served to muddle the words of the preacher or celebrant.

    I'm guessing that the reason why the producer, Jeremy Summerly, chose not to record this music in its original home is because it now uses a P.A. or electronic audio system, which is more appropriate for the modern mostly-spoken Mass. Masses are undoubtedly still sung there but the voices are likely amplified and filtered by electronics. The addition of modern furnishings can also affect the acoustics.

    Speaking of electronics -- it is now possible to accurately reproduce the acoustics of a particular space, like Notre Dame Cathedral, electronically. The acoustics of Notre Dame have already been captured and digitally reproduced, I believe, by the Japanese Yamaha Company. Unfortunately, I did not have that particular software program ("algorhythm") but, using other software, I was able to create my own semi-cavernous cathedral space.

    What an awesome experience!

    Even without the virtual cathedral enhancement, the sound is marvelous and the performance is excellent.

    One more technical consideration -- this recording was recorded and edited at 24-bit resolution. Unlike recordings made at a lower bit-rate, the sound, particularly in the higher registers, is smooth and clean. I wish that Jeremy Summerly would record Allegri's "Miserere" in a space that is acoustically similar to the Sistine Chapel, using the same technology. I haven't heard a recording of this work where the vital higher harmonics are not badly distorted.

    Tim O'Hanlon

    4 out of 5 stars A Voice Feast from the Middle Ages.......2005-07-23

    Recorded and edited in 24 bit resolution, this Naxos recording is a joy to the ears. The performing voices are solid and the direction of Antony Pitts has a sometimes dramatic, majestic, tempo. The only reason I did not concede full 5 stars is because in the Middle Ages female voices for Lithurgy were almost unknown, and in this record there are two sopranos and an Alto. If you enjoy Early Music you will need this record, if you are a beginner this is an intelligent way to introduce you to Polyphony, a cornerstone of Western music.
    Authentic George Gershwin, Vol. 1-4
    Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    • Excellent performer
    • A unique project
    • Gershwin historical, manic, perfect, archival
    • Definative
    		 Authentic George Gershwin, Vol. 1-4

    Manufacturer: Asv Living Era
    ProductGroup: Music
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    1. George Gershwin: His Life and Work
    2. Borat - Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan (Widescreen Edition)

    ASIN: B0001Z2RSC
    Release Date: 2004-08-24

    Tracks:

    1. Swanee
    2. Come To the Moon
    3. I Was So Young (You Were So Beautiful)
    4. Tee-Oodle-Um-bum-Bo
    5. Nobody But You
    6. Limehouse Nights
    7. Drifting Along With The Tide
    8. Rhapsody In Blue
    9. Oh Lady Be Good!
    10. Fascinating Rhythm
    11. Hang On To Me
    12. I'd Rather Charleston
    13. The Man I Love
    14. The Half Of It, Dearie, Blues
    15. So Am I
    16. Kickin' The Clouds Away
    17. Concerto In F

    Tracks:

    1. Sweet And Low-Down (I)
    2. That Certain Feeling (I)
    3. Looking For A Boy
    4. When Do We Dance?
    5. Sweet And Low-Down (II)
    6. That Certain Feeling (II)
    7. Irish Waltz
    8. Do, Do, Do
    9. Someone To Watch Over Me
    10. Clap Yo' Hands
    11. Maybe
    12. Three Preludes: I. No.1: Allegro Ben Ritmato E Deciso / II. No.2: Andante Con Moto / III No.3: Allegro Ben Ritmato E Deciso
    13. Meadow Serenade
    14. My One And Only
    15. 'S Wonderful/Funny Face
    16. He Loves And She Loves
    17. An American In Paris
    18. Liza
    19. Strike Up The Band
    20. Embraceable You
    21. I Got Rhythm (I)
    22. I Got Rhythm (II)

    Tracks:

    1. Of Thee I Sing
    2. Jilted
    3. Second Rhapsody
    4. For You, For Me, For Evermore
    5. Cuban Overture
    6. Isn't It A Pity?
    7. Variations On 'I Got Rhythm'
    8. I. Catfish Row: Introduction - Jazzbo Brown - First Chorus, 'Summertime'
    9. II. Porgy Sings: 'I got Plenty O' Nuthin' - 'Bess, You Is My Woman Now'
    10. III. Fugue: Murder Of Crown, Act III Scene 1
    11. IV. Hurricane: Introduction, Act II Scene 3 - Hurricane, Act II Scene 3
    12. V. Good Morning, Brother: Occupational Humoresque, Act III Scene 3 - 'Good Morning, Brother' - Children's Song 'Sure To Go To Heaven' - 'I'm On My Way' (Finale)
    13. They Can't Take That Away From Me
    14. Let's Call The Whole Thing Off
    15. Our Love Is Here To Stay

    Tracks:

    1. Girl Crazy Overture
    2. French Ballet Class
    3. Dance Of The Waves
    4. Slap That Bass
    5. Walking The Dog
    6. I've Got Beginner's Luck
    7. They All Laughed
    8. They Can't Take That Away From Me
    9. Shall We Dance
    10. By Strauss
    11. I Can't Be Bothered Now
    12. The Jolly Tar And The Milkmaid (1st Version)
    13. Put Me To The Test
    14. The Jolly Tar And The Milkmaid (2nd Version)
    15. Stiff Upper Lip
    16. A Foggy day (In London Town)
    17. Nice Work If You Can Get It
    18. Things Are Looking Up
    19. I Was Doing All Right
    20. Love Walked In

    Customer Reviews:

    5 out of 5 stars Excellent performer.......2007-03-09

    This plates are wonderful. I was charmed, and when I close my eyes now, I see scenes with American in Paris or Porgy and Bess but my favorite piece of music is Rhapsody in Blue. It's more than excellent is fantastic. Jack Gibbons perfectly feels the unique tone Gershwin's music, the mixture rythms of jazz with influences of impressionists and clear and beauty melodies.
    I'm fascinating.

    5 out of 5 stars A unique project.......2006-11-23

    Gibbons' undertaking is unique: to reconstruct and then execute and record the note-for-note playing of Gershwin as documented on the composers' piano rolls, sound recordings and certain published arrangements. I agree with the reviewer who points out that the result is like a library and not a recital you sit back and listen to (or get up and dance to). In fact Gibbons does some editing of his "library" now and then, and clearly documents it in his liner notes: in some reconstructions he augments accompaniment effects and even the melodic line itself. I don't mind that at all, especially as Gibbons scrupulously accounts for such tampering in his liner notes; but it seems to me that it is in this area of "tampering" that Gibbons the artist is asserting himself...which of course undermines the "library", the "historical archive": you have to search and read a bit to find out when you're hearing only Gershwin and when you're hearing some added Gibbons. I don't mind; Gibbons is a remarkable artist in his own right, not merely an impeccable documentarian. For sheer generosity of production Gibbons' Gershwin must also be unique: 4 cd's, scholar-level liner notes (yes, you need a magnifying glass to read them), and rock-bottom bargain price.

    5 out of 5 stars Gershwin historical, manic, perfect, archival.......2006-06-12

    First: this is 4 high-end produced cd's (in low-end jewel cases) for the price of 2. The liner notes of all 4 cd's are condensed in a booklet of microscopic print, so you may need to spend the savings on a magnifying glass. MONEY WELL SPENT.
    Second: Jack Gibbons plays (and has recorded) the Alkan op 39 etudes (he probably plays a lot more Alkan than that). For those of you not in the know, this is to say he has world-class chops, indeed history-class (Liszt, who never played his friend Alkan, at least in public). But it's also to say that Gibbons knows how to interpret and personalize fantastically difficult piano music. For me, his Alkan op 39 is personal and passionate and real (contrast the facile and over-pedalled Hamelin and the just-the-notes-ma'me Ringeissen). An appreciation of Gibbons' Alkan is important here because while his Alkan is uniquely personal (as such music must be, no matter how hard it is to play) his Gershwin is deliberately impersonal...which is to say: no pianist, no singer would want to reproduce what Gibbons has given us in these 4 cd's, and in fact few listeners will be able to listen for long to these 4 cd's without a respite, a break , some silence, some minimal styling from somebody (anybody) else...which brings me to
    Third: This is an archive, not a recital. This is a library, not a program. There is no track-by-track contrast of moods here, no track-by-track concession to easy listening, varied delight, any more than a library shelf of novels is alphabetized by authors' last names as a concession to mood or fancy or taste of the searching patron. This is the documented Gershwin in his recording mode: manic, notey, clever, "on", and never, as generations of stylists found in him, ravishing, tender, longing, sweet, glad, hopeful...person-to-person, in a word. I can listen to these cd's about half an hour at a time, max. This is Gerwhsin, not Gibbons. And this is just one side of Gershwin. He died at 38, in the summer. Brain tumor. A lot of pain.
    Finally, Jack Gibbons has given the world a uniquely valuable and easily available resource. Gibbons could now do us a service by playing us some Gershwin as he feels it, as it hits him and makes him sing (as Gershwin, our American Schubert, does to all of us, and as I think Alkan has done to Gibbons). I would love to see a Gershwin stylings by Gibbons now that Gibbons himself has made sure Gershwin in his authenticity is safe and sound.

    5 out of 5 stars Definative.......2005-07-23

    Here's the whole Gershwin catalog at a great price... Five plus hours of bliss. Definately five stars!

    Gibbons, according to a family friend and biographer Edward jablonski "recreates Gershwin's style." I'll never know. I can say this is a lively recording and has the perfect balance. It's neither stuffy and plodding or cute.
    Music of Upper & Lower Egypt
    Average customer rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    • Authenic rural Egyptian grooves
    • What a surprise!!!
    • A Very Good CD
    • real down to earth fellahi music
    • The Music of Upper & Lower Egypt
    		 Music of Upper & Lower Egypt
    Various Artists
    Manufacturer: Rykodisc
    ProductGroup: Music
    Binding: Audio CD

    EgyptEgypt | Africa | International | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Africa | International | Styles | Music
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    1. Sarangi: The Music of India
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    ASIN: B0000009N6
    Release Date: 1990-10-25

    Tracks:

    1. Nugumi - From The Aswan Region
    2. Allah - From The Aswan Region
    3. The Bride - From The Aswan Region
    4. The Groom - From The Aswan Region
    5. Ya Rab Toba - From Sa'ed Oena
    6. Manami (My Dream) - From Sa'ed Oena

    Customer Reviews:

    4 out of 5 stars Authenic rural Egyptian grooves.......2007-04-15



    The cd is about the closest that Westeners minus the plane tripe will get to rural Egyptian music. Most of the songs comes from parts of extreme southern Egypt[that is Luxor and Aswan] but some tracks are a little further north in places like Qena which border Middle Egypt. The previous reviewers have unfairly branded this as unauthenic. Such criticism does not suprise be due to lack of understanding or knowledge that some have of rural Egypt. I would argue that this cd is more Egyptian than most sha'abi due to the lack of western influence.

    Anybody that is into anthropology or field recordings is for a musical treat. All the music is supervised by the late Nubian ethnomusicology/oud player,Hamaza el Din. The only thing missing from a otherwise wonderful cd is funeral laments from Luxor and fallahin music from the Delta. Buy this Cd if you are into rural Egyptian music or a anthropology buff.




    1 out of 5 stars What a surprise!!!.......2002-03-03

    I love Hossam Ramzy's work, but this cd is a disaster. It sounds like the songs wanted to be Egyptian, but failed. Trust me on this, I am from that country and there is no way that this music or the people singing on it have anything to do with Egypt. More like Noubian trying for Upper Egyptian rethyms, goodluck. The drumm beat is too fast and everything is off, I am really surprised that Hossam has his name on this piece of you know what....

    5 out of 5 stars A Very Good CD.......2002-01-08

    Its somewhat unfortunate that this CD has gotten so many bad reviews. It really is an excellent CD. It is all very authentic recordings of tradtional music. I get the feeling that alot of people came to this CD expecting belly dance or Rai type music. Now I am a huge fan of Rai music myself, but I also have a deep interest in traditional music as well. This CD didn't disappoint me. It is all very traditional music, with little modern or western impact on it. The great majority of the music on this CD focuses in on the music of Upper Egypt, with the accompanying Sudanese and Nubian influences. If you enjoy African (well, sub-saharan African) music, the you will certainly get a kick out of this CD. Its a side of Egypt that you rarely hear much of. The rest of the music goes further towards the Nile delta, but interestingly enough focuses in on the classical and folk music of that region, rather than the more "exotic" music that some people look for. However, the music of Upper Egypt was excellent and takes a prominent place in my mind whenever I think of this CD. If you have an interest in historical and cultural music, especially that of Africa buy this CD. It may very well represent the closest music to that of ancient Egypt outside of the Copts. However, if you are looking for belly dance music, you may be somewhat disappointed. I just wish I could find more music from around the Sudan...

    5 out of 5 stars real down to earth fellahi music.......2000-09-05

    To be able to hear real fellahi music recorded on the spot is a rare opportunity. You can actually hear the closness to the African (Sudan) border. I love it! If only I could find more of this. But, if you are after modern belly dance music you sure are in the wrong place.

    4 out of 5 stars The Music of Upper & Lower Egypt.......2000-08-11

    I guess I'll be the one to wander off the beaten path in terms of of the music on this CD. I LOVE IT! It's primitiveness is what makes it so wonderful. I listen to it and feel as though I am part of the celebration! This is music made with what is naturally given to us, our voice and hands. Music in it's purest and most beautiful form. The basic-ness of the music is a valued part of my collection of music of the Middle East. Don't get me wrong, I dig George Abdo and Hossam Ramzy as much as the next person, and Natacha Atlas makes me shimmy with delight. But for me to truly understand and enjoy the music of the Middle East, and be a well-rounded student of Danse Orientale, I feel I must embrace the earthy, as well as the ethereal.
    English Choral Music
    Average customer rating: Not rated
      		English Choral Music

      Manufacturer: Naxos
      ProductGroup: Music
      Binding: Audio CD

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      ASIN: B0002BXO78
      Release Date: 2005-03-22

      Tracks:

      1. Magnificat In G Major
      2. Nunc Dimittis In G Major
      3. Justorum Animae
      4. Ave Verum
      5. Give Unto The Lord
      6. The Call
      7. Magnificat, St. Paul's
      8. Nunc Dimittis St. Paul's
      9. Paean For Organ
      10. Take Him, Earth, For Cherishing
      11. Litany To The Holy Spirit
      12. Welcome Sweet And Sacred Forest
      13. I. Eram Quasi Agnus Innocens
      14. II. Una Hora Non Potuistis
      15. III. Seniores Populi
      16. Magnificat In A Flat Major
      17. God Is Gone Up, Op.27, No.2

      Tracks:

      1. Set Me As A Seal Upon Thine Heart
      2. Coronation Te Deum
      3. Gloria
      4. A Hymn To The Virgin
      5. Jubilate Deo
      6. Hymn To St. Cecilia, Op.27
      7. The Lord Is My Shepherd, Op.91, No.1
      8. Crux Fidelis, Op.43, No.2
      9. Look Up, Sweet Babe, Op.43, No.2
      10. Magnificat And Nunc Dimittis
      11. Collegium Magdalenae Oxoniense
      12. An Easter Sequence-Sortie
      13. The Lamb
      14. The Lord's Prayer
      15. Song For Athene
      Let Them Eat Rock
      Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
      • Just rattle your jewelry
      • A great disc of roque and roll!
      • Just Plain Good Old New Rock n' Roll Fun
      • Bloody good roque, old boy
      • Don't pass this up this LP -- it rocks!
      		 Let Them Eat Rock
      The Upper Crust
      Manufacturer: Upstart
      ProductGroup: Music
      Binding: Audio CD

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      ASIN: B000003NPG
      Release Date: 1995-09-19

      Tracks:

      1. Let Them Eat Rock
      2. Little Lord Fauntleroy
      3. Rock 'N' Roll Butler
      4. Minuet
      5. Who's Who Of Love
      6. I've Got My Ascot 'N' My Dickie
      7. Old Money
      8. Friend Of A Friend Of The Working Class
      9. RSVP
      10. Little Rickshaw Boy
      11. Opera Glass

      Customer Reviews:

      5 out of 5 stars Just rattle your jewelry.......2004-03-10

      On this, their first outing in coach and six(string), the five gentlemen of the Upper Crust -- Lord Bendover and the Duc D'Istortion, Jackie Kickassis, Lord Rockingham and the Marquis de Rocque -- give the peasants a well-deserved thrashing on such elemental, yet necessary topics as ettiquette ("RSVP"), manners ("Let Them Eat Rock"), and -- gasp! -- knowing one's place ("Friend of a Friend of the Working Class.") Indeed, the kid gloves are off as they describe the frolicsome antics of "Little Lord Fauntleroy" ("...whoops, beg your pardon..."). Should the gentlemen keep this up, at this pace they're likely to perspire through their pancake makeup. At the very least, their ascots may get caught in their dickies. Wizard!

      5 out of 5 stars A great disc of roque and roll!.......2002-07-24

      What would Bon Scott-era AC/DC sound like if they lived in 18th-century France? Upper Crust give you a good idea, and they kick derriere! The Crust smash out bourgouoisie-ripping tunes about the trials and tribulations of being a rich landowner or ht burden of thrashing the peasants! Rockin', rollin', and hilarious, the Upper Crust would sound great even if they were a "straightforward" band. Tired of bands that take themselves too seriously? Then the Upper Crust is for you!

      5 out of 5 stars Just Plain Good Old New Rock n' Roll Fun.......2001-08-18

      I got this CD as a Christmas present a few years back. Not only is the schtick and getup by these guys hilarious, they pull it off with such musical aplomb! The whole CD is just a lot of raucous, well written, and well delivered fun! Feelin' down? Hang with the Upper Crust while cruisin' in your horsepower drawn carriage. Just don't get your ascot in your dickie...

      4 out of 5 stars Bloody good roque, old boy.......1998-10-02

      The Upper Crust is a great band. Beneath their makeup and veneer of aristocratic sophistication lies a core of vanity and aristocratic sophistication. Rock and roll should be fun, damnit, and this band makes it so. Many of Lord Bendover's songs will make one think of AC/DC or Cheap Trick, while Lord Rockingham's tunes bring to mind Grant Hart's contributions to Husker Du, and of course the inevitable comparison with the makeup and costumes is Kiss. But to hell with categorization and analysis. Listenting to the Crust is second only to watching them perform live in joy and fun. Buy this CD!

      5 out of 5 stars Don't pass this up this LP -- it rocks!.......1998-06-25

      Let Them Eat Rock is a killer first release from this Boston area quintent (at least when this was recorded). Members of the band come from older Boston outfits such as the Lyres (garage rock) and the Bags. The band dresses and sings as if they were 17th-18th century Western European aristocrats. Their songs are typically short, powerful, and well written. Also, if you have the chance check out their live show -- they're terrific! One of their former members was a Clinton speechwriter -- however I think he left the Crust for political reasons. Check out the Washington Post's web site, maybe you can find the article (I think it's from early '98). However, if you like hard driving, bang-your-head stuff, buy this record. Their second recording is not quite as good as this, but it's still definitely worth buying. Also, if you do like this stuff, check out the Titanics, and the Satanics -- offshoot bands.
      Cream of the Crust
      Average customer rating: Not rated
        		Cream of the Crust
        The Upper Crust
        Manufacturer: Upper Crust Ltd
        ProductGroup: Music
        Binding: Audio CD

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        ASIN: B000HEWG9W
        Release Date: 2006-09-19

        Tracks:

        1. Once More Into The Breeches
        2. Tell Mother I'm Home
        3. Eureka - Ive Found Love
        4. Rock And Roll Butler
        5. Let Them Eat Rock
        6. Little Lord Fauntlerroy
        7. Highfalutin'
        8. Rabble Rouser
        9. Whos Who Of Love
        10. We're Finished With Finishinhg School
        11. Boudoir
        12. Luncheon
        13. Little Rickshaw Boy
        14. Matron
        15. Cream Of The Crust
        16. I've Got My Ascot 'N' My Dickie
        17. Concubine
        18. Everybody's Equal
        Happy Birthday George Gershwin
        Average customer rating: 3 out of 5 stars
        • mediocrity rules
        • FIVE STARS
        		 Happy Birthday George Gershwin

        Manufacturer: Valley
        ProductGroup: Music
        Binding: Audio CD

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        1. Jubilation
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        ASIN: B000005BWM
        Release Date: 1997-10-07

        Tracks:

        1. Strike Up The Band
        2. An American In Paris
        3. Stiff Upper Lip
        4. Love Walked In
        5. Embraceable You
        6. By Strauss
        7. Fascinatin' Rhythm
        8. 'Swonderful
        9. They Can't Take That Away From Me
        10. Summertime
        11. Bess
        12. Things Are Looking Up
        13. Beginners Luck
        14. Let's Call The Whole Thing Off
        15. I Got Rhythm
        16. Our Love Is Here To Stay

        Customer Reviews:

        1 out of 5 stars mediocrity rules.......2000-06-03

        Unless you went to this concert and want a reason to remember the evening, I can't imagine why you'd want to own the CD. It has all the disadvantages of a live concert (acoustics are poor), and applause occurs on top of the performances. The interpretations of the music by the vocalists Tune and McGovern are poor. Save yourself the money....

        5 out of 5 stars FIVE STARS.......1999-04-10

        FIVE STARS FIVE STARS FIVE STARS FIVE STARS FIVE STARS FIVE STARS FIVE STARS FIVE STARS FIVE STARS FIVE STARS FIVE STARS FIVE STARSFIVE STARS FIVE STARS FIVE STARSFIVE STARS FIVE STARS FIVE STARS FIVE STARS FIVE STAR FIVE STARS

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