A Time of Peace

1. Deck the Halls

2. We Three Kings

3. Oh Little Town of Bethlehem

4. Oh Come All Ye Faithful

5. Coventry Carol

6. Oh Tannenbaum

7. Good King Wenceslas

8. Little Drummer Boy

9. Joy to the World

10. Angels We Have Heard on High

11. Silent Night

12. Hark! The Herald Angels Sing

13. It Came Upon a Midnight Clear

14. Away in a Manger

15. First Noel

A Time of Peace,Brothers of the Baladi,Brothers of Baladi,Christmas / Chanukkah,Christmas Music,Middle East,Pop,Traditional Middle Eastern Music arrangements of your favorite Christmas songs. You've never heard anything like it.,Xmas Vocal

Average customer rating: Pure beauty WHAT A GIFT! Incredible voice - Incredible CD The Best Charlotte is NO match...

Pure Manufacturer: Decca ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music All Works by Orff | Orff, Carl | ( O ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Cantatas | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Cantatas | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Noels | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music General Christmas | Holiday | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music General | Pop | Box Sets | Stores | Music Rock | Imports | Stores | Music The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music General Christmas | Holiday Music | Special Features | Music Similar Items: My Gift to You Hayley Westenra Odyssey Celtic Treasure Mozart's Lullaby ASIN: B0000TCP9A Release Date: 2003-11-10

Tracks:

1. Across the Universe of Time
2. Never Say Goodbye
3. Beat of Your Heart
4. Pokarekare Ana
5. Who Painted the Moon Black?
6. River of Dreams
7. Benedictus
8. Hine E Hine
9. Dark Waltz
10. Amazing Grace
11. My Heart and I
12. In Trutina
13. Heaven
14. Wuthering Heights
15. Pokarekare Ana [*] - Russell Watson, Hayley Westenra

Tracks:

1. Silent Night [*]
2. Away in a Manger [*]
3. Mary Did You Know? [*]
4. Mummers' Dance [*]

Album Description

A major artist in her native New Zealand, with a performance portfolio that includes the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra & Russell Watson. Hayley's voice so inspired New Zealand opera diva Dame Malvina Major she offered to tutor her. The first edition of this album was one of the fastest selling records in the classical genre of all time, surpassing even Charlotte Church! This limited edition includes one bonus track on disc one, 'Pokareare Ana' (duet with Russell Watson), & a bonus four track Christmas CD featuring, 'Away In A Manger', 'The Mummers' Dance', 'Mary Did You Know?', & 'Silent Night'. 19 tracks in all. Decca. 2003.

Album Details

Limited Edition Version of the Debut Album from New Zealand Singer Hayley Westenra Comes with a Bonus Disc featuring Four Christmas Songs, Including a Version of the Loreena Mckennitt Song "The Mummer's Dance". Also Includes "my Heart and I" which Does Not Appear on the USA Version.

Customer Reviews:

Pure beauty.......2005-09-06

Ever since Charlotte Church turned into a tabloids' darling and a wannabe pop star, there's been a gap opened for a young, sweet-faced soprano. The best bet on filling it seems to be Hayley Westenra, a young singer/dancer from New Zealand.

The result: "Pure," an album that is reminiscent of early Sarah Brightman, back when she did folk songs and showtunes. Westenra sticks close to her classical sound with songs like the delicate "In Trutina" and the traditional New Zealand song "Pokarekare Ana," which is rendered with the backing of a a rather muddled male chorus and some swelling strings.

However, Westenra doesn't neglect more modern songs, and she does well in classical pop as well as straightforward classical. The big difference seems to be a bit of synth and a delicate guitar melody, in songs like the charming "Beat of Your Heart" and dreamy "Why Painted the Moon Black?" It's a smooth, thoroughly sweet crossover effect.

Westenra also eschews the usual round of classical-pop songs, like "Nella Fantasia." I love that song, but it's been done so many times. Instead, she opts for Maori lullabies, Vivaldi ballads, the neglected "Mummer's Dance" and the orchestral cathedral grandeur of "Benedictus." She even covers Kate Bush's "Wuthering Heights," adding a modern feel to the finale.

That is not to say that every choice is an excellent one. "Wuthering Heights" has Westenra trying to sound more Bush-ian, while "Amazing Grace" is too simple vocally. Aside from those, her choices of song are excellent -- rich, uplifting and beautiful, and backed by a wide range of orchestral musicians, especially the strings.

There is also an accompanying EP, in which Westenra covers four Christmas ballads, and does them all justice. Her vocals are well suited to the dignified lyrics of songs like "The Mummer's Dance" and "Silent Night," although a bit less for the still-lovely "Mary Did You Know" and "Away in a Manger."

Her vocals themselves are not operatic, but they are strong, clear and sweet, without pretensions or dramatic flourishes. The effect is stunning, more given to magic and sweetness than to keeping to classical standards. Since this was recorded when Westenra was only sixteen, one wonders how good she'll be in ten years.

Despite comparisons to Charlotte Church, Hayley Westenra is more like Sarah Brightman -- a sweet-voiced singer, straddling the fence between classical and pop. An enchanting experience.

WHAT A GIFT!.......2004-12-20

I RECEIVED THESE 2 CDS AS A GIFT AND I LISTEN TO THEM FREQUENTLY. HER PERFORMANCE WITH RUSSELL WATSON (ON DVD)ON HIS TOUR IS WONDERFUL. I CAN'T WAIT FOR A NEW ALBUM. WOULD LIKE TO GET HER NEW SONG, BRIDAL BALLAD, FROM THE SOUNDTRACK OF THE MERCHANT OF VENICE

Incredible voice - Incredible CD.......2004-04-29

I recently saw Hayley on TV and had to immediately buy this CD. Her voice is so clear and pure, and her songs are filled with lyrical emotion.

It is an absolutely incredible CD that any music lover should have in their collection. My favorite song is Wuthering Heights.

The Best.......2004-04-27

Her album is the best, voice of an angel.......you can totally relakes to her music.

Charlotte is NO match..........2003-12-15

Hayley is just phenomenal. There is no doubt that she surpasses every other female artist in her genre. This CD is astonishing. My two favorite songs are "Heaven" and "Wuthering Heights". The first Hayley Westenra song I ever heard was "Heaven". It would not be the last. Her voice is like that of an angel. She has a smooth, serene sound, and she has an incredible range. If you want a more classical sound, you want her. It's not that gaudy stuff that people generally think of. This stuff has a beat... and it's not pumping with bass. If you're a fan of Sarah Brightman, Josh Groban, Charlotte Church, or Mario Frangoulis... try Hayley Westenra, you won't regret it. I just can't wait 'til she comes to the states... that'll be a good day. She has a few Italian songs, but she's not heavy on the foreign stuff like some of the other artists of Opera / Classical. She's got a wonderful voice for a little girl... I'm a huge fan, Hayley! You roped me in, in about 2 minutes time!

Average customer rating: Great Classical Spectrum

Classic Chillout, Vol. 2 Various Artists Manufacturer: EMI Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra | ( B ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music London Philharmonic Orchestra | ( L ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music National Philharmonic Orchestra London | ( N ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Paris Symphony Orchestra | ( P ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Compilations | Classical | Styles | Music General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Dance & DJ | Imports | Stores | Music Classical | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: Classical Chillout Euphoric Classics: A Classical High Jazz Chillout Reel Chill: The Cinematic Chillout Album Classic Chillout Album ASIN: B00005Y49H Release Date: 2004-03-09

Tracks:

1. Any Other Name - Nikolaj Bloch
2. Vision - Richard Souther
3. Song Of Tears - London Philharmonic Orchestra
4. Largo - Reginald Kilbey And His Strings
5. Hedwig's Theme - Nic Raine
6. Sheep May Safely Graze - Sir Neville Marriner
7. II. Adagio Un Poco Mosso - Philharmonia Orchestra
8. Cavatina - Manuel Barrueco
9. Eddie - Michael Nyman
10. Espiritu - Thomas Otten
11. Cinema Paradiso Love Theme - Ennio Morricone & His Orchestra
12. Pavane - New Philharmonia Orchestra
13. Pie Jesu - Choir Of King's College, Cambridge
14. Goldberg Variations - Maria Tipo
15. Agnus Dei - David Hill
16. II. Adagio Sostenuto - Dame Moura Lympany
17. Canzonetta Sull'Aria - Gianna Rolandi

Tracks:

1. Time To Say Goodbye - Orchestra
2. Aquarium - Katia & Marielle Labeque
3. Barcarolle (Les Contes D'Hoffman) - Elisabeth Schwarzkopf
4. Jean De Florette Theme - Toots Thielemans
5. La Valse D'Amelie - Yann Tiersen
6. Love In Slow Motion - The Planets
7. Heart Of The Volunteer - David Temple
8. II. Adagio - Ton Koopman
9. Nimrod ('Enigma' Variations) - London Symphony Orchestra
10. Going Home (Largo) - Izzy
11. Sarabande - Academy Of St. Martin In The Fields
12. Facades - John Harle
13. Panis Angelicus - Halle Choir
14. Teleplene And Rubber Band - Simon Jeffes
15. Agnus Dei - National Youth Choir Of Great Britain
16. II. Romance - Garrick Ohlsson
17. Jesu, Joy Of Man's Desiring - Choir Of King's College, Cambridge
18. II: Andantino - James Galway
19. Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini - Cecile Ousset
20. An Ending - Brian Eno

Album Details

Instrumental Chill Out of the Classical Variety, Not of the Dancefloor. Chill Baby!

Customer Reviews:

Great Classical Spectrum .......2005-03-21

These cd's are a great set of varied classical music. Pavane is my favorite. Additionally, Classical Chillout 2 offers theme music from Harry Potter and it is very well done.

Average customer rating: infectious and inspiring music you MUST OWN classic i and i a soldier till thee end bigup SOJA..! THE BEST

Peace in a Time of War Soldiers of Jah Army Manufacturer: Soldiers of Jah Army ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Reggae | International | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Get Wiser Each One Teach One Universal Cry Living in the Positive Together as One ASIN: B0001LVWXC Release Date: 2003-09-26

Tracks:

1. Revolution
2. Reality
3. Non-Partial, Non-Political
4. Look Within
5. Rasta Courage
6. Peace in a Time of War
7. Creeping In
8. Brothers and Sisters
9. True Love
10. Jah Atmosphere
11. Mother Earth
12. Forgive, Don't Forget
13. Did You Ever
14. Time Come Due
15. End

Customer Reviews:

infectious and inspiring music you MUST OWN.......2006-06-16

SOJA has been playing in the background of my life for two years now. sad to say, after listening to peace in a time of war non-stop for so long, its hard for me to turn to anything else reggae... YES even marley. this is no knock on the roots greats believe me. SOJA is just THAT GOOD. jacobs voice is haunting and beautiful, backed up by great rythm and lines from the band this cd will stay in your player or ipod on repeat. my brother who isnt more than a passive reggae fan (marley, the occasional toots or tosh) after hearing me play the Soldiers now is hooked as well. these guys will be known as one of the american reggae greats.. (along and above groundation believe me) CANT MISS SONGS!! "true love", "rasta courage", "brothers and sisters" , "jah love", "peace in a time of war" the entire disc is unreal... check out the latest "Get Wiser" but not before "Peace"............... SOJA!

classic.......2005-12-29

amazin albulm.true roots reggae true love and rasta courage are two of my favorite songs ever!!! spread the word these guys are sick!!

i and i a soldier till thee end.......2005-11-04

i bought this album for the track ( TRUE LOVE ) which is one of the most beautiful reggae tracks i have ever .having spent 25 years in and around this business i know a good music when i hear it . other tracks from this album have grown on me . money well spent

bigup SOJA..!.......2005-05-07

what can i say? if you love roots like i do and you dont have this cd you are sleepin mon! i live in northern virginia so i had heard buzz bout these brothers for awile, but it wasnt till i saw dem at the state theatre in falls church dat i realize how good SOJA are..PEACE IN A TIME OF WAR is an awesome cd mon..its in heavy rotation in my player! 2nd only to bob marleys 4 cd set SONGS OF FREEDOM.. you wont be disappointed if you purchase this one! my favorite tracks,if i had to pick,are RASTA COURAGE AND PEACE IN A TIME OF WAR..LIVITY!!

THE BEST.......2004-10-05

i highly recommend buying this cd. i saw these guys perform it was the best. after the show i went and bought a cd, i suggest u do the same

Average customer rating: The Rascals Got Soul Probably The Greatest Greatest Hits Collection Of The 1960's All the stuff... minus one. Groovin on a sunday afternoon and on a beautiful morning.

Time Peace: The Rascals' Greatest Hits The Rascals Manufacturer: Atlantic / Wea ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Oldies | Pop | Styles | Music Compilations | Pop | Styles | Music | Dance Pop | Easy Listening | General | Oldies | Traditional Vocalists General | R&B | Styles | Music Blue-Eyed Soul | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Similar Items: The Lovin' Spoonful - Greatest Hits The Association's Greatest Hits The Mamas & the Papas - Greatest Hits Paul Revere & The Raiders - Greatest Hits Mercy, Mercy, Mercy: A Collection ASIN: B000008JSY Release Date: 1990-07-25

Tracks:

1. I Ain't Gonna Eat Out My Heart Anymore
2. Good Lovin'
3. You Better Run
4. Come on Up
5. Mustang Sally
6. Love Is a Beautiful Thing
7. In the Midnight Hour
8. I've Been Lonely Too Long
9. Groovin'
10. Girl Like You
11. How Can I Be Sure
12. It's Wonderful
13. Easy Rollin'
14. Beautiful Morning

Customer Reviews:

The Rascals Got Soul.......2006-09-19

I concur with the other reviewer, this is one of the best of the best from the turbulent 60's. There's a lyricism and an innocent romanticism to the Rascals' music so sorely lacking in today's pop scene. Great soul and R&B touches to these selections, too (Lonely Too Long sounds like something from Motown). The musical arrangements are thoughtful, the lyrics sensitive, the vocals from the heart. Just a wonderful balance of the nice things that the 60's left with us!

Probably The Greatest Greatest Hits Collection Of The 1960's.......2006-07-12

The total exuberance and greatness of this garage band of New Yorkers in rocking out with their white eyed soul influences is all on display here..they were totally up their on a perch that is theirs alone. A Time Peace of an album that is more than relevant today.
When this album came out The Rascals were at the top of their game...selling rapidly due to the inclusion of that lovely, MAJESTIC single, A Beautiful Morning, here on this CD is the psychedelic artwork, all reproduced on this good sounding disc, as well as that fine photo of the band on their way to Indian Nirvana when commercial success and soul searching confused things despite the great single, People Got To Be Free, which does not belong on this compilation..The Rascals 2nd phase began with the 2 LP Freedom Suite which hopefully Rhino will release on CD as well as all the other later Cd's...

The 2 CD set The Rascals Anthology is another great anthology, offering superior sound covering their entire recorded career, while their 1st 3 Cd's, The Young Rascals (total note for note classic), Collections (fusing out into newer terrain) and Groovin, (a psychedelic masterpiece) all have good sound...The Ultimate Rascals collection is a showstopper BUT better sound is available on The Anthology as well as Time Peace..

All the stuff... minus one........2006-02-16

What a great disc. I wish Warners or Rhino or someone would remaster it and add the missing "People Got to Be Free".
That being said this is still an awesome disc of blue eyed soul. Felix and Eddie are great singers, but their secret weapon was drummer Dino Danelli; check out "A Girl Like You": it both rocks and swings!
Grab this if you can, because the only "official" version is a Rhino best of that includes their cruddy Columbia hippy dippy songs.

Groovin on a sunday afternoon and on a beautiful morning........2004-04-12

I own the original LP of this hard to find original reissue from the Rascals. If you're a casual fan, I recommend it, though it leaves off "People Got To Be Free." That's a shame. Nonetheless, quite splendiferous from a group playing during a time of turbulance that gave people a feeling to appreciate life and to be alive during the '60s.

Average customer rating: Overproduced, but a solid effort A more 'conventional' sounding Big Country Big Country's last great album indeed Last great album from Big Country The album that killed Big Country

Peace in Our Time Big Country Manufacturer: Warner Bros / Wea ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music New Wave | New Wave & Post-Punk | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Britain | British Isles | Europe | International | Styles | Music Scotland | British Isles | Europe | International | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Similar Items: Autumnal Park ASIN: B000008DFS Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

1. King of Emotion
2. Broken Heart (Thirteen Valleys)
3. Thousand Yard Stare
4. From Here to Eternity
5. Everything I Need
6. Peace in Our Time
7. Time for Leaving
8. River of Hope
9. In This Place
10. I Could Be Happy Here
11. Travellers
12. When the Drum Beats
13. Starred and Crossed
14. Longest Day

Customer Reviews:

Overproduced, but a solid effort.......2005-08-18

I have been a Big Country fan for many, many years. Like most, I was turned on to them with their hit single "In A Big Country". That trademark bagpipe guitar sound was just too cool. "The Crossing" remains, in my mind, their best album. They continued with this same sound over two more records and had a decent amount of success, mainly in Europe. "Peace In Our Time" offered a new producer (Peter Wolf) and a new, slick sound. This record was pretty much panned by most critics and fans, but I really like it. Yeah, maybe it is over-produced and Peter Wolf tries to make them sound like some major pop band. But, the quality of the songs....the songwriting is fantastic. Big anthems ("King Of Emotion", "Peace In Our Time"), great ballads ("Everything I Need") and catchy chorus' ("From Here To Eternity", "River Of Hope"). Newer pressings have also added the excellent instrumental "The Travellers".

Yeah, the signature sound is gone. Maybe Stuart Adamson, lead singer and main songwriter, listened to his critics too much and changed more than most fans would have liked. But, like any great band, you have to evolve. And, I think this was a stepping stone for the band, as was their next record, "No Place Like Home". Listen to U2's "Joshua Tree" and then go listen to "Achtung Baby". Their sound has totally changed. While Big Country's evolution wasn't that dramatic, they were able to hit their stride by the time they released "The Buffalo Skinners". They continued to release great records until their swan song "Driving To Damascus". If you want to hear a great Big Country record, pick up "The Crossing" or "Driving To Damascus". If you want to hear some music by a great rock band, pick up "Peace In Our Time".

A more 'conventional' sounding Big Country.......2005-02-23

This album sounds a good deal less 'exotic' than The Crossing, Steeltown, and The Seer. They have indeed taken on a much more 'conventional' pop-rock sound. But this album is definitely not bad. In fact, it's pretty good. Big Country is probably one of the few bands that could make such a change without going down the toilet.

Big Country's last great album indeed.......2004-02-21

Pay no mind to what the critical reviewer said below. I rather agree with the guy from the Philippines: This was Big Country's last GOOD album. The nineties were a disappointment with BC sounding way different than their Celtic roots. I remember how deflated I felt when I bought the LP No Place Like Home. There was nothing reminiscent of The Crossing or The Seer on that album, save the mournful ballad Ships.
There are a bunch of great songs on Peace in our Time: the title track and the first three songs on side one, all of which were released as singles in South Africa. King of Emotion and Broken Heart received the most airplay. Man, I can still remember the goosebumps I got hearing the chorus of Broken Heart for the first time, Brzezicki's crashing drums and the interplay of guitars. Yeah, this was Big Country!
Thousand Yard Stare is a haunting song with an eerie but very effective hook, the lyrics being a story of a young man returning from the war with that distant, vacant look in his eyes. It also has a catchy chorus. Peace in Our Time is a anthem of hope for a broken world. I also enjoyed River of Hope on side two, but it seems not to reach the heights it hints at. I was looking for a song like The Sailor from the Seer album or The Storm from the Crossing.
BC may have changed producers here, but it probably made their music more refined. These were subtle changes. Unfortunately, they weren't satisfied and for their next album went on in a whole other direction, trying to be more blues-rock than their signature Celtic rock sound. They lost their desire or their ability to write good melodies.

Last great album from Big Country.......2003-07-23

I probably have worn out the vinyl grooves to this fourth Big Country album I bought way back in 1989 I think.

Some people might not like this album simply because it deviates from the bagpipe-heavy sound of other great BC albums like The Crossing, Steeltown and The Seer.

But groups do mature and try something new for a change. This album is it! Except for the first track, all songs are great like "Broken Heart (13 Valleys)", "From Here To Eternity", I Could Be happy Here", "In This Place" and most specially "Eveything I Need". Hearing this song sends chills down my spine with its haunting melody.

Listening to these songs gives me visions of landscapes from different places around the world. Be it the Scottish highlands or visons of peacefully lying on the beach and staring at the sea.

No anthemic rock choruses for this album, which is a refreshing change. This album do have some of the bagpipe sound but only sparingly and that is a welcome change from the previous albums.
Stuart's lyrics and message is as optimistic and positive as the previous albums. Maybe he should have ended Big Country with this one than fade away in the 90's. This should be BC's swan song.

I don't care much about the 4 extra tracks on this CD re-issue. They are not in league with the mood and theme of the album. Just listen to the original album.

Here are my favorite BC albums and my ratings from 1 to 5:
1. The Seer - 5
2. Peace In Our Time - 5
3. Steeltown - 4
4. The Crossing - 4.

Buy this album before Linkin Park, Korn and Limp Bizkit take control of the major labels and delete this item in press! :-)

Don't just take my word for it. If in doubt, try to listen to this album before buying at your local CD shop. Enjoy!

The album that killed Big Country.......2003-04-20

Big Country was my favorite group for years after first hearing them in '83. They were a group I called my own, while all my friends seemed to dwell on U2, Duran Duran, or The Cure, Big Country was my fave, and pretty much stayed number one for me, until this album came out. Talk about a disappointment!!!

While Big Country did take a small drop off getting a little too poppy sounding with their album "The Seer" in late '86, they also made some improvements with "The Seer" by bring back some more traditional Big Country Celtic style which kind of left them a little when they did "Steeltown." However, nothing could prepare me for this flop. Simply put, Big Country picked the wrong producer. Peter Wolf had no business producing this album, nor any of Big Country's for that matter. Even Big Counry admitted later that Peter Wolf was probably not the right guy for this project (understatement of their careers!). Nowhere is this more obvious then when you hear the songs BC produced on their own for some of their B-side songs to this album. In fact the songs on this CD - "When A Drum Beats," "The Longest Day," "Travaler," and "Stared And Crossed" were not on the origenal "Peace in Our Time" album, and were all produced by BC and recorded around the same time as the Peter Wolf produced songs. There were other songs too that were produced by BC around the same time the album "Peace In Our Time" was recorded like "Promised Land" and "Over The Border" which though different sounding, still sound much more like BC then tracks PW produced. This tells you something - that these songs that PW produced could have been good had Big Country stuck with a good producer like Steve Lillywhite. While the tracks BC produced where on the raw side, they sounded like you would generally expect BC to sound on there album following "The Seer"...different, but good, not different, and BAD! Keeping much of their signature sound, though transitionary.

Big Country's great talents are totally suppressed, and the songs squandered on this album. The only song I like all the way through is "13 Valley's" and while the song "Peace in Our Time" shows flashes of greatness, it falls far short of its potential. Obviously complements of Peter Wolf!

Unfortunately, this marked the down fall of Big Country, as they never fully recovered from this flop of an album, and while coming out with some good music here and there, it was always very inconsistant going into the 90's and beyond. I must blame much of this on Big Country for buying into the criticism of being a gimic band from the beginning, as many UK bands from the early 80's were acused of being, mainly by US critics (wow, what a surprise, jealous bastards!) If BC would have just became proud of there early signature sound that so many people loved them for, me included, instead of feeling guilty about it and moving away from it, they would have been a much longer lasting success, but instead they succeded in convincing themselves that they must sound like everyone else to be genuine. Unfortunately, most of the good UK groups bought into this notion, more or less, but all you have to do is look at U2 to see that you can keep your signature sound and still evolve. Why do so many groups like Big Country thing in order to evolve, and mature, you must lose your signature sound? I will never undersand this!

If you are new to BC, go with "The Crossing" or "Steeltown," their two first full albums, and their best! Stay clear of "Peace In Our Time, and if you are a major BC fan, my advice for you is to REALLY stay away from this one, as it is not Big Country, but "just a shadow of the album it should be!"

Average customer rating: Great album - Great Band Music for the Cuckoo's Nest Classic punk/hardcore and tongue in cheek hits Sorry, this is not green day Somehow...Jolly Fun!

Peace Through Vandalism/When In Rome Do as the Vandals The Vandals Manufacturer: Time Bomb ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Hardcore | Hardcore & Punk | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Punk | Hardcore & Punk | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Punk Revival | Hardcore & Punk | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Punk Revival | Hardcore & Punk | Alternative Rock | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Living in Darkness Team Goon The Record Group Sex Give Me Convenience or Give Me Death ASIN: B000005EN6 Release Date: 1995-07-18

Tracks:

1. Wanna Be Manor
2. Urban Struggle
3. The Legend of Pat Brown
4. Pirate's Life
5. H.B. Hotel
6. Anarchy Burger (Hold the Government)
7. Lady Killer
8. Bad Birthday Bash
9. Master Race (In Outer Space)
10. Big Bro Vs. Johnny Sako
11. Mohawk Town
12. Viking Suit
13. Hocus Pocus
14. I'm a Fly
15. Slap of Love
16. Airstream
17. Rico

Customer Reviews:

Great album - Great Band.......2007-07-16

I am here just to clear up a few things. This is a great album for any one who enjoyed Punk in the mid to late eighties. I need to correct a few things. The bar is called 'ZOOBIES' and was in the city of Costa Mesa. The H.B. Zobbies did not open until the early 90's, well after the Cuckoo's Nest(also in Costa Mesa) closed. The Cuckoo's Nest and Zoobies shared the same parking lot. Zoobies owners got tired of the pucks that hung around so they bought the Cuckoo's Nest and turned it into Zoobies Guilded Cage'. Any way, now I'm bored, just a lil history for ya.

Music for the Cuckoo's Nest.......2006-05-15

Its immature, obnoxious and full of laughs. "Anarchy Burger" was practically my personal theme song in high school, which probably proves how much of a dork I am.

Classic punk/hardcore and tongue in cheek hits.......2006-01-09

Peace Through Vandalism is a must have.... When did punk start? We can argue that it started in England and was seen in The Clash, Pistols, The Damned and was rolling in 1976...but how about America in 1970? Ever heard of Iggy Pop (and the Stooges)? How about Lou Reed and a band called the Velvet Underground? Ramones? In the late 70's if you were West Coast it was either LA or SF and it could have been any of the Decline of Western Civilization bands (Germs, Black Flag, Bags, Circle Jerks, X and my favorite FEAR) or The Dead Kennedys and The Hate up in the Bay Area. In the early 80's Orange County (not The OC) was ripping it up with bands like The Vandals, T.S.O.L., The Adolescents, D.I., Agent Orange, Social Distortion...Hello. Peace Through Vandalism is the flagship for The Vandals. When in Rome...well it is good but not hardcore...more tongue in cheek and may have borrowed from The Peppers (freaky style/uplift mojo party plan).

What is Punk? Is it the Weirdoz, The Screamers, Charged G.B.H., Subhumans, The Doors? In my opinion Punk is something that is not played or at least wasn't played on the radio...always exceptions (college pirate radio with balls or KROQ's Rodney B). I don't think any FEAR song will or could have played on the radio, but I hear The Killers and many others...what is the word alternative or is it punk..on top 40 radio stations...Horrible!

Sorry, this is not green day.......2005-07-11

Looking at most of the reviews here, it becomes instantly obvious the divide between the various iterations of the Punk phenomenon. Some (myself included) call the latest movement complete rubbish, and utterly commercial, which is at odds with the real meaning of the punk movement. However, way back when in the days I considered myself a punk rocker, the previous generation said the same of us. That being said, it's pretty clear that from the other reviews that kid's today don't know their roots. For instance, it seems unlikely that a band like say, NOFX would have its unique sound or humor without the likes of the original Vandals. Tracks like the Legend of Pat Brown, Mohawk Town, and Urban Struggle were once anthems, where now they are pretty much forgotten, and that's too bad. One review mentioned that the album has an odd cowboy theme, which begs context. When this album came out, way back in the early 80's, there was a resurgence of country music, and something called the "cowboy lifestyle", thanks in large part to a forgotten movie called Urban Cowboy, starring none other than John Travolta. Coming to the point, the Vandals decided to have a little fun with [what was then] contemporary pop culture.

Anyone that grew up in OC will recognize some of the references made in the songs, Zoomies for example is, or was, a cowboy bar at one time in Huntington Beach... The song Pirate's Life is actually about the Pirate's of the Caribbean ride at Disneyland, and an LSD trip. For ultimate context, I highly recommend the original version of Suburbia on DVD, in which the real Vandals appear, which is sold here on Amazon, and for which, incidentally, I have also written a review.

If this album has you scratching your head, its because its from a different time that seems to be irrelevant to the current generation of punk rockers. There was a time when this album was cutting edge, and that time has long since passed.

Somehow...Jolly Fun!.......2005-03-18

The Vandals rule on this compilation...not because they rock(well they actually do) but because it's funny or sarcastic. Without hearing much Vandals I find this to be an essential punk/hardcore record. Remember...Keep this in mind though, I've only heard Fear of a Punk Planet and a few newer Vandals songs on Nitro comps and such.

The first EP is great. Starting with the fun bass line of "Wanna be a Manor". With the themes of cowboy punkers in "Urban Struggle" and rocking as a Pirate. The humor of H.B. Hotel and getting a broken heart and more I shouldn't go into in this review. It ends with the somewhat funny Anarchy Burger(Hold the Government).

The full length continues the humorous tradition of the EP, except I actually think it's better with use of the Stratch Box in Ladykiller...to the very funny cover of "Hocus Pocus"...to the trumpet in "Rico"...there's some cool instrumentation on the album. You wouldn't think this stuff is much. But it is creative and funny as heck in my mind! Plus all the funny rocking songs...there so absurbly funny...possibly for the wrong reasons.

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

Andrew Lloyd Webber: Now & Forever Various Artists Manufacturer: Decca Broadway ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Requiems | Forms & Genres | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Noels | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Requiems | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music Contemporary Musicals | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music General Christmas | Holiday | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music Broadway & Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Box Sets | Stores | Music The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music General Christmas | Holiday Music | Special Features | Music Similar Items: Gold: The Definitive Hits Collection The Very Best Of Andrew Lloyd Webber: The Broadway Collection Andrew Lloyd Webber - The Royal Albert Hall Celebration Andrew Lloyd Webber - Masterpiece (Collector's Edition) (Bonus CD) Sunset Boulevard (1993 Original London Cast) ASIN: B00005R5UJ Release Date: 2001-11-20

Tracks:

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

Tracks:

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

Tracks:

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

Tracks:

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

Tracks:

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

Album Description

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

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

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

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

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

Customer Reviews:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

Average customer rating:

Shakespeare's Songbook, Vols. 1 & 2 Manufacturer: Azica ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Similar Items: Shakespeare's Songbook Songs and Dances from Shakespeare Shakespeare Songs Shakespeare's Musick (Songs & Dances from Shakespeare's Plays) / Pickett, Musicians of the Globe William Shakespeare's Hamlet (Two-Disc Special Edition) ASIN: B0002IQL08 Release Date: 2004-07-06

Tracks:

1. Ah Robin (Round)
2. And Let Me The Cannikin Clink
3. And Will He Not Come Again
4. Be Merry, Be Merry
5. Black Spirits
6. Blow, Blow Thou Winter Wind
7. Bonny Sweet Robin
8. But Shall I Go Mourn
9. Can'st Thou Not Hit It
10. Come Away
11. Come Away, Hecate
12. Come Live With Me
13. Come O'er The Burn
14. Come Thou Monarch (Version 2)(Round)
15. Come Unto These Yellow Sands
16. A Cup Of Wine
17. Farewell, Dear Heart
18. Fathers That Wear Rags
19. Fear No More
20. Fie On Sinful Fantasy
21. Fill The Cup (Round)
22. Flout 'Em And Cout 'Em (Round)
23. Fools Had Ne'er Less Grace
24. For I'll Cut My Green Coat
25. The Friar And The Nun
26. Full Fathom Five
27. The George Alow (Version 1)
28. Get You Hence
29. The God Of Love
30. Hark, Hark The Lark
31. Have I Caught My Heavenly Jewel
32. Heart's Ease
33. Hold Thy Peace (Version 2)(Round)
34. Honor, Riches
35. I Am Gone Sir
36. I Loathe The I Did Love
37. It Was A Lover And His Lass
38. Jepha
39. Jog On
40. Jolly Shepherd (Round)
41. King Stephen Was A Worthy Peer
42. Lawn As White
43. Love, Love, Nothing But Love (Version 2)
44. The Master, The Swabber (Version 2)
45. No More Dams
46. An Old Hare Hoar (Version 1)
47. O Mistress Mine (Version 1)
48. Orpheus With His Lute
49. O Sweet Oliver
50. Pardon Goddess Of The Night
51. Roses Their Sharp Spines
52. Sigh No More, Ladies
53. Some Men For Sudden Joy (Version 1)
54. Take, O Take Those Lips
55. Tell Me, Where Is Fancy Bred
56. That Sir Which Serves
57. There Dwelt A Man In Babylon (Version 1)
58. There Was Three Fools
59. Three Merry Men (Round)
60. Tomorrow Is St. Valentine's Day
61. Under The Greenwood Tree
62. Up And Down (Round)
63. Urns And Odours Bring Away
64. Walsingham
65. Was This Fair Face
66. Wedding Is Great Juno's Crown
67. What Shall He Have (Round)
68. When Arthur First In Court
69. When Daffodils Begin To Peer
70. When Daisies Pied
71. When Griping Grief
72. When Icicles Hang By The Wall
73. When That I Was And A Little Tyne Boy
74. Where The Bee Sucks
75. While You Here Do Snoring Lie
76. Who Is Silvia
77. Why Let The Strucken Deer
78. Willow, Willow (Version 1)
79. Will You Buy Any Tape
80. The Woosel Cock
81. You Spotted Snakes

Tracks:

1. Awake, Awake
2. Battle Of Agincourt
3. Bride's Goodmorrow
4. Broom
5. Callino
6. Carmen's Whitle
7. Chi Passa
8. Come Kiss Me, Kate (Round)
9. Come Thou Monarch (Version 1)
10. Cup Of Wine (Version 1)
11. Damon
12. Daphne
13. Diana (2 Versions)
14. Dulcina
15. Eglamore
16. Eighty-Eight
17. Fortune My Foe
18. George Alow (Version 2)
19. Glass Doth Run
20. Goddesses
21. Go From My Window
22. Greensleeves (2 Versions)
23. Guy Of Warwick
24. Hem Boys (2 Versions)
25. Hey Ho for A Husband (2 Versions)
26. Hobbyhorse
27. Hold Thy Peace (Versions 1 & 3)
28. Hunt's Up
29. I Cannot Come Every Day (2 Versions)
30. In Crete
31. In Peascod Time
32. Jack Boy (Round)
33. King Cophetua
34. King Lear
35. King Solomon
36. Light O Love
37. Loath To Depart (2 Versions)
38. Love, Love (Version 1)
39. Master, Swabber (Version 1)
40. Mounsier Mingo
41. Mounsieur's Almaine
42. My Mind To Me
43. Nutmegs (Of All The Birds)
44. Nutmegs (Wooing Of The Baker's Daughter)
45. O Death (2 Versions)
46. Old Hare Hoar (Version 2)
47. O Mistress Mine (Version 2)
48. O' The Twelfth Day Of December
49. Oyster Pie
50. Peg A Ramsey (2 Versions)
51. Phillida (3 Versions)
52. Please One
53. Pyramus
54. Queen Dido (2 Versions)
55. Ratcatcher
56. Rich Jew
57. Robin Goodfellow
58. Robin Hood
59. Rogero
60. Rowland
61. Sellenger's Round
62. Shore's Wife (2 Versions)
63. Sick, Sick (3 Vesions)
64. Some Men For Sudden Joy (Round)
65. There Dwelt A Man (Version 2)
66. Titus Andronicus
67. Tom A Bedlam (2 Versions)
68. Troilus
69. Troy Town
70. Wellady
71. Whenas We Sat In Babylon
72. Where Is The Life
73. Whoop
74. Why Let The Strucken (If Care Do Cause)
75. Willow, Willow (Version 2)
76. Will Ye Buy A Fine Dog
77. With A Fading

Average customer rating:

Abide with Me and other favourite hymns Manufacturer: Naxos ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Howells, Herbert | ( H ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Monk, William Henry | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Purcell, Henry | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Vaughan Williams, Ralph | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Purcell, Henry | Composers | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Vaughan Williams, Ralph | Composers | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Hymns | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Masses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music All Bargain Titles | Holiday Music | Miscellaneous | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music 4-for-3 Classical | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Abide With Me 100 Hymns & Songs of Inspiration Be Still My Soul: The Ultimate Hymns Collection A Heritage of Hymns: Classic Recordings of the Great Songs of Faith and Inspiration Hymns on the Crystal Cathedral Organ ASIN: B000B6N69A Release Date: 2005-10-18

Tracks:

1. All People That On Earth Do Dwell
2. Dear Lord And Father Of Mankind
3. King Of Glory, King Of Peace
4. Ye Watchers And Ye Holy Ones
5. Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silent
6. Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise
7. All My Hope On God Is Founded
8. The Lord's My Shepherd
9. Tell Out, My Soul
10. Christ Is Made The Sure Foundation
11. Come Down, O Love Divine
12. Praise To The Lord, The Almighty, The King Of Creation
13. And Did Those Feet In Ancient Time (Jerusalem)
14. Abide With Me
15. Alleluya, Sing To Jesus!
16. Ye Holy Angels Bright
17. My Song Is Love Unknown
18. Holy, Holy, Holy!
19. Glorious Things Of Thee Are Spoken
20. O For A Thousand Tongues To Sing
21. Praise, My Soul, The King Of Heaven
22. O Praise Ye Lord

Average customer rating: Classy Set

Music of Bill Evans Manufacturer: Landmark ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Kronos Quartet | ( K ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Avant Garde & Free Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music ASIN: B000009K9B Release Date: 1994-10-17

Tracks:

1. Waltz For Debby
2. Very Early
3. Nardis
4. Re: Person I Knew
5. Time Remembered
6. Walking Up
7. Turn Out The Stars/ Guitar Improvisation
8. Five
9. Peace Piece

Customer Reviews:

Classy Set.......2003-10-23

The beautiful music of Bill Evans- reinterpreted here by the wonderful Kronos Quartet. This and the Thelonious Monk set are well worth accquiring.

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