Mystere [Soundtrack]

1. Égypte

2. Rumeurs

3. Birimbau

4. Kunya Sobé

5. En Ville

6. Ulysse

7. Rondo

8. Caravena

9. Kalimando

Mystere,Cirque du Soleil,RCA,Canada,Circus Music,Ethnic Fusion,New Age / Meditation,Original Cast Recordings,Pop,Worldbeat

Average customer rating: Hypnotized by clock radio Purity Outstanding quality My favorite album of all time Lovely dissonance and, in spite of its modernism, a bearer of endangered heritage

Le Mystère des Voix Bulgares Bulgarian State Radio & Television Female Vocal Choir Manufacturer: Nonesuch ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Bulgaria | Eastern Europe | Europe | International | Styles | Music General | Continental Europe | Europe | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music Similar Items: Le Mystère des Voix Bulgares, Vol. 2 Voices of Life Music of Bulgaria Ritual Spirituals ASIN: B000005IYL Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

1. Pilentze Pee (Pilentze Sings)
2. Svatba (The Wedding)
3. Kalimankou Denkou (The Evening Gathering)
4. Strati Na Angelaki Doumasche (Haiduk Song)
5. Polegnala E Pschenitza (Harvest Song From Thrace)
6. Messetschinko Lio Greilivko (Love Song From The Mountains)
7. Brei Yvane (Dancing Song)
8. Erghen Diado (Song Of Schopsko)
9. Sableyalo Mi Agontze (The Bleating Lamb)
10. Pritouritze Planinata (Song From The Thracian Plain)
11. Mir Stanke Le (Harvest Song From Thrace)
12. Schopska Pesen (Diaphonic Chant)
13. Polegnala E Todora (Love Song)

Customer Reviews:

Hypnotized by clock radio.......2006-12-25

I heard Pilentze Pee on my clock radio in the late 80's and went down and bought the album immediately, and it is still a favorite.

Purity.......2006-12-16

This album, and the music of the choir is magnificent - in richness of sound, vocal artistry and spiritual depth. The blending of rural folk music -- in itself highly sophisticated harmonically and rhythmically -- with modern composition results in an almost otherworldly mood. Their earthy, unadorned vocal style seems all at once ecstatic, elegaic, and humble. Their performance style, no vibrato, clear, sharp, high toned calls, seems to plumb the root of the human condition, and...beyond. I do not believe there is a universal musical language. However, this is as close as it gets.

Outstanding quality.......2006-07-05

Both the choir and the compositions / arrangements are of an unchallenged quality. The music is unique in itself, and the performance is fantastic.

My favorite album of all time.......2006-06-11

I discovered this album about 10 years ago and I have remained transfixed with these ladies ever since. The first song I heard was "Kalimankou Denkou," and immediately, my whole idea of what music is changed forever. The dissonant harmonies and power behind these voices more than make up for the fact that I cannot understand a word of Bulgarian-- which doesn't matter-- their incredible talent comes shining through.

My other favorite on this CD is "Sableyalo mi Agontze" for the absolutely ethereal harmonizing.

If you haven't bought this CD yet but are curious, buy it because I can practically guarantee you've never heard anything like this before. This is the best CD in my library.

Lovely dissonance and, in spite of its modernism, a bearer of endangered heritage.......2005-11-25

Released in 1988 after Marcel Cellier brought never-before-heard recordings to the West, LE MYSTERE DES VOIX BULGARES was an explosive suprise for music lovers. Thirteen songs performed by the Bulgarian State Television Female vocal choir, the disc displayed a highly exotic method of singing where each singer has limited vocal range but piercing projection and resonance, and polyphony using intervals never heard in traditional Western art music.

One thing should be said from the start: this is not authentic Bulgarian folk music, but rather sophisticated arrangements made by composers during the Communist era. Many of the lyrics here are from old folk songs, and the method of singing each singer displays is truly old, but you're crazy if you think any folk music has four-part counterpoint. Still, folk cultures are dying across Europe, and these arrangements are becoming all we have left of a precious tradition snuffed out by Western decadence.

The disc opens with the droning "Pilentze Pee" which immediately gives the listener a full blast of this exotic tradition. With parallel seconds in the harmonic writing, pitches fluctuate strikingly yet under perfect control. Ditto for the eerie diaphonic chant of "Schopska Pesen". The mournful "Kalimankou Denkou" and "Pritouritze Planinata" are simplest in their harmony, and most nearly approach village singing. "Erghen Diado", where the choir is accompanied by drum, shows the humour stereotypically attributed to the people of the Shopsko region.

While the music is phenomenal, I'm unhappy with Nonesuch's packaging. No lyrics or translations are provided for the songs--although since most are about death and unrequited love, this may be to spare some sense of magic for the listener who doesn't speak Bulgarian. The transliteration used is meant for speakers of French, and is filled with typos to boot, which makes it hard for one to reconstruct the original Cyrillic title of each song. Still, this is the best introduction to a fascinating choral tradition, and heavily recommended for open-minded music fans, lovers of Bulgarian culture, and students of the Bulgarian language. The four-star rating is given only because there's some dead wood, and to get thirteen songs that truly represent the best of this choral writing, you'd have to buy several CDs.

Average customer rating: All the best song from Cirque du Soleil Cirque as always Like a bowl of magical soup Not exactly "Le Best" Absolutely Breathtaking Music

Le Best of Cirque du Soleil Cirque du Soleil Manufacturer: Cirque Du Soleil ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | International | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Similar Items: Alegría Cirque du Soleil - Midnight Sun Cirque du Soleil - Lovesick Cirque du Soleil - Alegria (Live in Sydney) Cirque Du Soleil: 20 Years Under the Sun - An Authorized History ASIN: B0002VYQDO Release Date: 2004-09-21

Tracks:

1. Egypte
2. Alegria
3. Pokinoi
4. Querer
5. Kumbalawe
6. Ombra
7. Reveil
8. Nostalgie
9. Vocea
10. Stella Errans
11. Gamelan
12. Liama

Customer Reviews:

All the best song from Cirque du Soleil.......2007-02-19

You could listen to all the best songs from Cirque du Soleil! Even you never watch its shows, you will be attracted to buy the tickets once you listen it the songs!

Cirque as always.......2006-03-10

Cirque always has the most magnificent musicians. Always outstanding! This cd takes some of the best from different programs and combines them into one experiance. It is a great compilation that has been done in the wonderfully unique Cirque way!

Like a bowl of magical soup.......2005-12-25

This is NOT the full course dinner, but an opening course, a little tease for your taste buds, or in this case, your imagination. This is like magical soup where each spoonful is a different flavor and sometimes, well it is a combination of the otherworldly and the worldly. Sometimes it is just the right spice for that right moment. This is great music and deserves respect for the creativity that fueled its construction. Like any good chef, it is personal, quirky and eclectic. Enjoy! If you want the full course, go to a live production and be ready to be a glutton.

Not exactly "Le Best".......2005-12-06

I was going to give this 4 and a half stars, but I can't. Literally. Anyway, there are some great tracks on this CD. Even Alegria, where the singer sounded like she lost her voice. Some of the songs are on my iPod right now. But I wish they put more. This isn't enough. Do you have how much music you can load on a CD? Come on, Cirque, add more!

Absolutely Breathtaking Music.......2005-10-05

I didn't buy this cd off of Amazon, at a Borders Store actually. But anyway this cd is absolutely amazing with a 14 selection of absolutely breathtaking performances and compositions from the world renowned Performance Show known as Cirque Du Soleil. With spellbounding varieties of music on this cd from the show. It's an absolutely worthy CD to buy. Hands down--you'll love it! Just buy it and hear it for yourself!

Average customer rating: Enchanting Attention Mystery Buffs

Mystere Cirque du Soleil Manufacturer: Cirque Du Soleil ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | International | Styles | Music Canada | North America | International | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Similar Items: Cirque Du Soleil: Journey of Man Dralion Cirque Du Soleil - Corteo O Alegría ASIN: B000A2H9WA Release Date: 2005-09-06

Tracks:

1. Ouverture Ramsani
2. Misha
3. Egypte
4. Rondo Double Face
5. Ulysse
6. Dome
7. Kalimando
8. Kunya Sobe
9. En ville - Frisco
10. Gambade
11. High Bar
12. Taiko
13. Finale

Customer Reviews:

Enchanting.......2007-05-12

One of the best CD's I have ever owned. I play it all the time.

Attention Mystery Buffs.......2005-09-07

If you frequently find yourself wondering about mysteries of the universe & the dark side of human history, get a copy of this recording today! It supersedes the original studio recording by allowing you to hear the actual concert performed by a live band at live Las Vegas show in the same sequence--only the non-musical comedy routines, & redundant choruses have been eliminated. This is the second edition of this CD, originally released in 1996.

"Ouverture/Ramsani" opens with some annoying sounds of a baby crying (it's unfortunate they didn't edit this small section, which is the only low point of the production), but then kicks into a very powerful gear. During the performance, strange beings emerge from both sides of the stage, bathed in blinding light, while drummers pound out a Big Bang as they are lowered from the rafters above the gaping audience. Two celestial ladies sing in an other-worldly language that seems to praise the creation of this magical universe!

"Misha" is the most mystical & original-sounding track on the CD--it will totally entrance you! The first mystifying portion of it accompanies the performance of a man maneuvering within a giant steel cube, spiraling over the stage. During the final minute, the song rocks as he escapes the cube & twirls it miraculously like a baton!

"Egypte" provides a steady, Eastern-sounding march during which poles are set up on the stage for the next performance. Eerie, 2-faced creatures crawl headfirst down the 100-foot wall on either side of the stage like lizards from another galaxy!

"Rondo/Double Face" is a rocker with 2 crystal-crisp guitar solos that sound like Martin Barre of Jethro Tull at his finest! The Double-Faces perform amazing acrobatics leaping from pole to pole, grabbing the poles with only their legs!

"Ulysse" slows the pace down to a spooky level as 2 men manipulate each other into a series of unbelievable poses that defy gravity! The celestial ladies seem to cry, "Tristay mor!" Maybe this could translate: "Don't let go!"

"Dome" is a brief transitional piece; the previous act departs from the stage dome that lowers into a mist, & sets the mood for the following jungle sequence.

"Kalimando" & "Kunya Sobe" accompany a breathtaking bungee performance over the audience; the former is an uplifting ballad of epic proportion, while the latter provides a steady, groovy dance beat that'll make you wanna get up & get down! It's Tarzan on another planet!

"En Ville/Frisco" plays as the stage turns into an acrobatic madhouse! The sax on this song wails in harmony with the myriad of leaps & flips!

"Gambade" is another transitional piece for the extensive safety-net setup.

"High Bar" is the pinnacle of the show, both on the stage, & in the speaker system! This song truly captures the anticipation of watching trapeze artists. Even though the risk of injury is minimized by the safety net, it's still amazing to see these guys fling through the air on cue, & somehow manage to catch each other's hands. At times, the song delivers a powerful, unstoppable rhythm; then on cue with the performers, it suddenly halts as we hold our collective breath--then it allows us to breathe again while building up to the next stunt.

Approaching the show's end, an array of drums rises from the mist, & a battalion of drummers bang out "Taiko"!

"Finale", as you can imagine, summarizes the show, & recaps some of the melody presented during "Ouverture". After experiencing this thrilling musical spanning a range of human emotions, "Finale" closes the circle in a magnificent way!

Average customer rating: Spirited Performances You'll Be Surprised A much needed set!

Milhaud: The Complete Symphonies (Box Set) Manufacturer: Cpo Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Milhaud | Milhaud, Darius | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music Modern & 20th Century | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Classical | Box Sets | Stores | Music Similar Items: Melartin: The Six SYMPHONIES Kurt Atterberg: The Symphonies (Box Set) Hindemith: Complete String Quartets Ture Rangström: Complete Symphonies (Box Set) Ernst Toch: Complete Symphonies - Rundfunk-Sinfonieorchester Berlin / Alun Francis ASIN: B00004SH7J Release Date: 2000-04-11

Amazon.com

This remarkable set of all 12 Darius Milhaud symphonies (five CDs) raises a number of immediate questions, not the least of which is why Milhaud's symphonies aren't recognized for their overall artistic merit more than they are. Milhaud started off, as so many composers of his generation did, dabbling in various avant-garde techniques, which are to some degree present in Symphonies 1 and 2 (dated 1939 and 1944, respectively). They are youthful, brash, and militantly French (lots of marching drums, trumpet fanfares, salutes, etc.). But by Symphony No. 3 (of 1946), Milhaud's temperament has stabilized and matured. His palette, though, expands in richness, and the symphonies to follow show Milhaud at his inventive best. Outstanding in this collection are Symphonies 5 and 6 (1953 and 1955), which are by turns moody and deliciously sweet, never atonal or dissonant. The fact that Symphonies 5 and 6 are rarely performed and never recorded makes these works alone a selling point for this collection. This is a stellar collection that belongs in every library of 20th-century music. --Paul Cook

Customer Reviews:

Spirited Performances.......2005-08-04

One forgets that Darius Milhaud was such a prolific composer (his catalog of compositions goes out to 441 opus numbers) and that he wrote 12 symphonies. Outside of Camille Saint Saens and Albert Roussel there have been few French composers who have been attracted to the symphonic form. The symphonies or Darius Milhaud are characterized by their impressionism and dedication to the traditional symphonic structure. Those written with three movements mimic the older sinfonia form of Alessandro Scarlatti. Each work has an individual voice.

The First Symphony was written at the start of the Second World War and has an immediate appeal with a strong pastoral melody that continues to develop and unfold during the movement. This is followed by an engaging scherzo and a moody slow movement that seems to float along, as if describing the sea. The final movement returns to the carefree mood of the first movement. The Fourth Symphony commemorated the Revolution of 1848 and was written in the United States where Milhaud was living. Each of the four movements describes an event: the insurrection, the dead of the Republic, the joys of Liberty and Commemoration 1948. The Fourth is a very straightforward symphony whose depictions are easy to understand and enjoy.

The Second Symphony was a commission from the Koussevitzky Foundation in 1944 and premiered in Boston in 1946. Cast in 5 movements, the symphony slowly builds from the peaceful first movement to the third movement (a kind of funeral march) with a fanfare played by the brass that shatters the peaceful mood. The fourth movement returns to the quietly reflective mood of the first two and the final movement is brilliant and exuberant. The Third Symphony was a departure for Milhaud - a symphony with chorus. The symphony bears the title Te Deum and begins with a jubilant fanfare followed by a remarkable second movement where the chorus sets the mood of the Te Deum singing a wordless accompaniment. The third movement is an exuberant short orchestral movement and the final movement brings in the chorus and orchestra in a glorious hymn of praise.

The Fifth Symphony was a commission from Italian Radio and is characteristic of Milhaud's linear symphonic structure. Although the symphony was written during a period of musical experimentation (in 1953) the music remains rooted in the French Impressionist style that makes Milhaud so recognizable. The composer stuck to the four movement pattern for his symphonies. The Sixth Symphony was written in 1955 for the 75th anniversary of the Boston Symphony. The Sixth differs from the Fifth by being more expansive; slower tempi with more shading. The melodies are more broken up than the more straightforward Fifth. Both symphonies contain marvelous melodies and complement each other with their energy and pastoral beauty.

Symphonies 7, 8 and 9 stand as a group, all of them composed during the 1950's and music where Milhaud gave more attention to the slow movements. This is apparent by looking at the timings themselves but as one listens to them. In the Seventh, the slow movement is characterized by choppy bit of melody from the orchestra over a grave melody played by the strings. The Eighth symphony is a depiction of the Rhone River as it travels through France. One immediately notices that the music is more astringent and the themes more broken. The slow movement sounds as if portraying the river at early morning when shrouded by mist and everything is viewed in the soft dawn light. The remaining movements are energetic and boisterous. The Ninth begins with a whimsical theme that quickly develops into an energetic short movement. The slow movement is ominous and melancholy but the mood breaks for the energetic final movement.

Symphonies 10 through 12 all date from the 1960's and all three had American commissions. These late symphonies have been termed neoclassical. The Tenth was commissioned for the 100th anniversary of the state of Oregon. It opens with the feel of a marching band in the use of snare drums and quick tempi to be followed by a quiet and reflective slow movement. The final movement is said to contain a theme based on the name Oregon. The Eleventh was commissioned by the Dallas Symphony Orchestra and Public Library and has a long meditative middle movement that has been interpreted as depicting the Dallas Public Library. The final movement is playful and boisterous. The Twelfth and final symphony was commissioned by the University of California at Davis. The symphony begins with a gentle pastoral theme that remains playful throughout the movement. The second movement has a march-like theme followed by a reflective slow movement. The final movement returns to the pastoral theme of the first movement and the symphony ends with a flourish.

The recordings come from the 1990's and each disc is in its own jewel case. The recording balance is superb and the Radio-Sinfonieorchester Basil, conducted by Alun Francis, play with real passion and commitment. These are highly interesting symphonies that deserve to be heard more often. Hopefully, this set will encourage their performance.

You'll Be Surprised.......2001-10-10

Milhaud's harmonic language is complex and challenging, the Basel band is top-notch, and the recorded sound is superb, so you'll find yourself coming back time and again to this pleasant, fulfilling set. The attractive price (as of this writing) is a major lure, so don't wait.

If you've been finding yourself overly traumatized by the Mahler ethos, perhaps it's time to try the sunny transparency of these symphonies.

A much needed set!.......2000-09-01

This set of five CDs fills a long standing need for a modern version of Milhaud's symphonies. It is easy to think of Darius Milhaud as primarily a miniaturist, and it is true that he resisted the symphonic form for a good part of his vast and surpassingly fecund compositional life (the first Symphony is marked Opus 210!), but this fine series of recordings gives that notion the boot. Meticulously prepared and recorded -the sound is superb!- the Basel Radio Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Alun Francis does Milhaud homage, and gives us a convincing look at these neglected works. The first four symphonies seem the weakest of the lot, a bit overly martial, and the horns have plenty to do, sometimes seeming much ado about nothing. As Milhaud assimilates the symphonic form, however, he naturally conquers it, producing, frankly, some of the most beautiful music around. Nos. 7, 11, & 12 are especially fine. You'll find no Germanic grappling in these works, indeed the smile of Provence is all over them. Milhaud's grasp of the symphonic form is mature and all-encompassing, yet employing such uncanny orchestration that one never loses the sense of hearing fine chamber music. Absolutely delightful. I'd not heard this orchestra before, and they're an impressive lot. If you don't know Darius Milhaud's music, perhaps some of his smaller pieces (even the marvelous songs!) are a better starting point, but these recordings won't disappoint even the unacquainted. If you already know and appreciate Milhaud's cast of mind, what are you waiting for!

Average customer rating: Emotional Experience Mystere~ cirque du soliel I wish I could give this album 10 stars! It's the best!!! Outdated See the live show, then buy this cd!

Mystere Cirque du Soleil Manufacturer: RCA ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | International | Styles | Music Canada | North America | International | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music Meditation | New Age | Styles | Music Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music Similar Items: Dralion Alegría Saltimbanco Quidam O ASIN: B000003FQY Release Date: 1994-11-08

Tracks:

1. Egypte
2. Rumeurs
3. Birimbau
4. Kunya Sobe
5. En Ville
6. Ulysse
7. Rondo
8. Caravena
9. Kalimando

Customer Reviews:

Emotional Experience.......2005-05-15

I purchased my copy of this album as I exited the theater when I first saw Mystere in 1995. I was emotionally drained from seeing the performance, and am still moved by this music after 10 years. These performers are beyond compare, and regardless of your musical tastes, if you appreciate virtuosity you must hear this album. (Side note: I returned to Vegas in 2002 with my son and my wife, where we had the three center front row seats. I ended up on stage with the troupe playing the fool with the Baby. I love this show!)

Mystere~ cirque du soliel.......2004-08-28

BREATH-TAKING!!! I must admit the Mystere cd I own (and have almost worn-out from playing) is the Live version- recorded in May of '96. My first Cirque experience was seeing Mystere in Las Vegas in November of 2003, and I can still see the show in my mind from the opening of those little baby cries to the "to powerful for words", heart-pounding close of the Taikos solo. The music in itself is exteremely powerful, almost provocative, and alone is, would be a moving experience for anyone who has the ability and passion to "hear" the emotion such cultured, masterful composers and musicians express through melody and rythum. Benoit Jutrus and Rene Dupere ARE masters of their craft! Actually being able to experience the show live only adds to the intensity of that emotion. The show/music literally "surrounds" the audience, in a sense taking you on a journey through the very deepest of all human emotion. I can't compliment this composition/show enough. So my review is: buy the album(s) and definately see the show. I am absolutely planning on seeing the show again, and again- I am jealous of and completely understand the fan who has already seen the show six times! I literally get goose-bumps STILL every time I listen to this CD. #1 MUST HAVE/SEE!

I wish I could give this album 10 stars! It's the best!!!.......2004-06-01

I am a composer and a musician who is in awe of Mystere. I am also an author who either writes in absolute silence or with Mystere playing. Mystere has the purity of silence and a higher compliment I cannot pay any music. Oh, and by the way, this album ROCKS!!!!
The musical compositions and their perfect realization by an assembly of supremely talented musicians and singers is a gift to the world that I urge you to add to your music collection without delay. Mystere will add a new dimension to your appreciation for Cirque du Soleil - this music is as incredible as they are, and that is saying something!!

Outdated.......2004-03-07

Rumeurs, Birimbau, and Caravena are no longer used in the show. The other songs are still in the show, but two of them have been altered: En Ville and Rondo.
I recommend this album to those who have attended a performance of "Mystere" between 1993-1995 when all of the songs from this album were in the show and none were different. This album is a very strong and emotional compostion, though, due to its outdated nature, the album lacks some of the emotion of the show. Egypte and Ulysse are stronger in this album due to the fact that they contain choirs. This album is interesting to listen to if you have the more current "Mystere, Live" album.

See the live show, then buy this cd!.......2004-01-23

I love the CIRQUE DU SOLEIL! You have to really see it in person to fully appreciate the beauty of the music. When you are watching the various acts during the live performance you get lost in the music and almost forget you are watching a staged production. I have seen a few live Cirque Shows, including Mystere, Quidam, and O, and It truly is a spiritually, emotionally charged sensory experience. There are times you want to cry, times you want to laugh, and times you just find yourself in awe of what is going on...I reccomend seeing the live show first and then buying the music...but, the music alone is amazing and can be appreciated by itself. Don't pass up seeing this incredible show!

Average customer rating: A devine revelation Excels in performance and acoustically The sting of awakening. The True Incarnation of Messian's Mystic Art outstanding - music, performance, and sound

Olivier Messiaen: Complete Organ Works Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Messiaen | Messiaen, Olivier | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Classical | Box Sets | Stores | Music Deutsche Grammophon: Music | Specialty Stores | Music Similar Items: Des Canyons Aux Etoiles Messiaen: La transfiguration de Notre-Seigneur Jésus-Christ Olivier Messiaen: Et exspecto resurrectionem mortuorum; Chronochromie; La Ville d'en haut Midnight at Notre-Dame [Hybrid SACD] Olivier Messiaen: Catalogue d'oiseaux; La Fauvette des jardins ASIN: B00005UOVM Release Date: 2002-10-08

Tracks:

1. Apparition De L'eglise Eternelle
2. La Nativite Du Seigneur: I. La Vierge Et L'enfant
3. La Nativite Du Seigneur: II. Les Bergers
4. La Nativite Du Seigneur: III. Desseins Eternels
5. La Nativite Du Seigneur: IV. Le Verbe
6. La Nativite Du Seigneur: V. Les Enfants De Dieu
7. La Nativite Du Seigneur: VI. Les Anges
8. La Nativite Du Seigneur: VII. Jesus Accepte La Souffrance
9. La Nativite Du Seigneur: VIII. Les Mages
10. La Nativite Du Seigneur: IX. Dieu Parmi Nous

Tracks:

1. Le Banquet Celeste
2. Offrande Au Saint Sacrement
3. Diptyque
4. Les Corps Glorieux: I. Subtilite Des Corps Glorieux
5. Les Corps Glorieux: II. Les Eaux De La Grace
6. Les Corps Glorieux: III. L'ange Aux Parfums
7. Les Corps Glorieux: IV. Combat De La Mort Et De La Vie
8. Les Corps Glorieux: V. Force Et Agilite Des Corps Glorieux
9. Les Corps Glorieux: VI. Joie Et Clarte Des Corps Glorieux
10. Les Corps Glorieux: VII. Le Mystere De La Saints Trinite

Tracks:

1. Meditations Sur Le Mystere De La Sainte Trinite: I. Le Pere Des Etoiles
2. Meditations Sur Le Mystere De La Sainte Trinite: II. Dieu Est Saint
3. Meditations Sur Le Mystere De La Sainte Trinite: III. La Relation Reelle En Dieu Est Reellement Identique A L'essence
4. Meditations Sur Le Mystere De La Sainte Trinite: IV. Dieu Est
5. Meditations Sur Le Mystere De La Sainte Trinite: V. Dieu Est Immense - Dieu Est Eternel - Dieu Est Immuable...
6. Meditations Sur Le Mystere De La Sainte Trinite: VI. Dans Le Verbe Etait La Vie Et La Vie Etait La Lumiere...
7. Meditations Sur Le Mystere De La Sainte Trinite: VII. Le Pere Et Le Fils Aiment, Par Le Saint-Esprit, Eux-Memes, Et Nous
8. Meditations Sur Le Mystere De La Sainte Trinite: VIII. Dieu Est Simple - Les Trois Sont Un
9. Meditations Sur Le Mystere De La Sainte Trinite: IX. Je Suis Celui Qui Suis

Tracks:

1. Prelude
2. Verset Pour La Fete De La Dedicace
3. Monodie
4. L'ascension: I. Majeste Du Christ Demandant Sa Gloire A Son Pere
5. L'ascension: II. Alleluias Sereins D'une Ame Qui Desire Le Ciel
6. L'ascension: III. Transports De Joie D'une Ame Devant La Gloire Du Christ Qui Est La Sienne
7. L'ascension: IV. Priere Du Christ Montant Vers Son Pere
8. Messe De La Pentecote: I. Entree (Les Langues De Feu)
9. Messe De La Pentecote: II. Offertoire (Les Choses Visibles Et Invisibles)
10. Messe De La Pentecote: III. Consecration (Le Don De Sagesse)
11. Messe De La Pentecote: IV. Communion (Les Oiseaux Et Les Sources)
12. Messe De La Pentecote: V. Sortie (Le Vent De L'esprit)

Tracks:

1. Livre D'orgue: I. Reprises Par Interversion
2. Livre D'orgue: II. Piece En Trio (Pour Le Dimanche De La Sainte Trinite)
3. Livre D'orgue: III. Les Mains De L'abime (Pour Les Temps De Penitence)
4. Livre D'orgue: IV. Chants D'oiseaux (Pour Le Temps Pascal)
5. Livre D'orgue: V. Piece En Trio (Pour Le Dimanche De La Sainte Trinite)
6. Livre D'orgue: VI. Les Yeux Dans Les Roues (Pour Le Dimanche De La Pentecote)
7. Livre D'orgue: VII. Soixante-Quatre Durees
8. Livre Du Saint Sacrement: I. Adoro Te
9. Livre Du Saint Sacrement: II. La Source De Vie
10. Livre Du Saint Sacrement: III. Le Dieu Cache
11. Livre Du Saint Sacrement: IV. Acte De Foi
12. Livre Du Saint Sacrement: V. Peur Natus Est Nobis
13. Livre Du Saint Sacrement: VI. La Manne Et Le Pain De Vie

Tracks:

1. Livre Du Siant Sacrement: VII. Les Ressuscites Et La Lumiere De Vie
2. Livre Du Siant Sacrement: VIII. Institution De L'eucharistie
3. Livre Du Siant Sacrement: IX. Les Tenebres
4. Livre Du Siant Sacrement: X. La Resurrection Du Christ
5. XI. L'apparition Du Christ Ressuscite A Marie-Madeleine
6. Livre Du Siant Sacrement: XII. La Transsubstantiation
7. Livre Du Siant Sacrement: XIII. Les Deux Murailles D'eau
8. Livre Du Siant Sacrement: XIV. Priere Avant La Communion
9. Livre Du Siant Sacrement: XV. La Joie De La Grace
10. Livre Du Siant Sacrement: XVI. Priere Apres La Communion
11. Livre Du Siant Sacrement: XVII. La Presence Multipliee
12. Livre Du Siant Sacrement: XVIII. Offrande Et Alleluia Final

Customer Reviews:

A devine revelation.......2007-07-31

For me, Latry's interpretation is perfect. He simply understands Messiaen and how he wrote for the organ. The organ of Notre Dame de Paris is a monster and totally suited (of course) to Messiaen's music.

Highlights for me, in this set are:

Combat of Death and Life (very frightening use of pedal reeds)
Celestial Banquet (breathtaking)
God is Holy (mystical and shattering all in one)

Excels in performance and acoustically.......2006-01-26

Latry is technically and musically excellent. He "gets" the music.
The recording is a perfect mix of amibient space and reverb and direct sound. Bass extends well down to 16Hz so you will need a good system to reproduce this faithfully.

I've heard that Latry doesn't use 100% of the tonal color available on the Cavaile-Coll organ, but I feel as though it's expressive and rich.

The wind chest noise doesn't bother me. It is part of the instrument.

Overall excellent. Play this loud!!!

The sting of awakening........2006-01-24

I must confess that I've been lukewarm about Messiaen. He was often pictured in the 1970's in Hawaiian shirts and suspenders jacking his pants up to his man-boobs and this tacky image carries over all too well to some of his later music, where the extended durations are meant to be slow and glorious like the procession of a pharaoh through the streets of Thebes, or the dawning of God's grace on a sinner ( I'm trying to avoid using the word "hieratic" ) but can sometimes, if you're in the wrong mood, seem more like a senile windbag droning on without a care in the world for his auditors. His portrayal of mystical states often have an air of smugness, of impregnable autosatisfaction.

Then, occasionally, a recording like this comes along and suddenly my spine is vibrating like a Water-Pik. I'm beginning to realize that Messiaen is a far more tricky composer than I'd thought, that what seems foolproof has maybe never really been heard the right way before. Latry has the key to Messiaen in a way that Celibidache has the key to Bruckner, or Stockhausen has the key to Stockhausen. In fact, this may be the one true Messiaen recording that exists so far, in any of the categories from orchestral to piano music. Where other players seem to be twiddling their thumbs waiting for the next note, Latry fills those spaces between with terror and expectation that make you want to jump out of your skin. What usually feel like repetitious passages in Messiaen's music are revealed by Latry in all of their subtly particular glory, like God looking down at the antheap of humanity and still being able to sympathize with one overweight secretary's love problems. A repeated piercing shriek from the organ will be given a smoky, ominous feeling the first time, and then a soft, languishing one the next, and so on.

While many composers benefit from different approaches, for Messiaen, facts are facts -- to play him you must not only be from France, but must be a Catholic. French Catholics, who have a body of literature behind them with one foot in the secular world, by writers such as Leon Bloy, Huysmans and Julien Green, are not to be compared with Catholics anywhere else. To listen to Latry play Messiaen is to marvel at the arbitrary cruelty and unfairness of the church, its shocking lapses behind the scenes allowed to slide on the basis of an infallibility we're meant to take on faith... And then to realize that this faith, unrewarded and abused, trampled on and thrown away, is precisely for this reason, precisely because it's hopeless, our absolute duty towards God. Latry's Messiaen is a celebration of terror, disappearance, awe and infinitely black spasms of traumatized joy.

The True Incarnation of Messian's Mystic Art.......2005-04-24

You will not find a better recording of Olivier Messiaen's organ works than this gem. Approved by a Catholic Church official in the liner notes as capturing the religious ideals that Messian sought to reveal, Latry's playing on the formidable Notre Dame Cathedral organ contains a gravity and seriousness that give a rare and divine character to the music. Latry was blessed by Messiaen himself as the best interpreter of his works, and the reason for that is evident here. The music pours fourth in a majestic tide, and Latry uses his formidable talent, the full resources of the outstanding 600-year old organ, and the natural, extra-long reverberation in the medieval cathedral to capture the mysticism that pervades Messiaen's art. This is art music of the highest caliber, and will greatly reward repeated listenings.

outstanding - music, performance, and sound.......2004-04-14

This CD set was released at a perfect time for me: just after hearing ALL of the material live at St. James cathedral in Seattle, performed by the young Paul Jacobs. He told the audience that the music had changed his life. Play these CDs on a good system, and I think you will understand. Best concert of any sort in a decade for me.

The music is incredible, and would only sound exactly right in a cathedral. To get as close to live sound as possible, I wish this recording was in a surround format (SACD or DVD-A), however for stereo, this is excellent, as others have noted. It's a must have.

Average customer rating: Attention Mystery Buffs mystere review Awsome! Incredible! Simply amazing...

Mystère Live in Las Vegas Taikos , Benoit Jutras , and Rene Dupere Manufacturer: RCA ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | International | Styles | Music Canada | North America | International | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music Meditation | New Age | Styles | Music Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Similar Items: Saltimbanco Cirque du Soleil: La Nouba Quidam Dralion Mystere ASIN: B000003G5G Release Date: 1996-11-12

Tracks:

1. Ouverture/Ramsani
2. Misha
3. Egypte
4. Rondo/Double Face
5. Ulysse
6. Dome
7. Kalimando
8. Kunya Sobe
9. En Ville/Frisco
10. Gambade
11. High Bar
12. Taiko
13. Finale

Customer Reviews:

Attention Mystery Buffs.......2004-05-07

If you frequently find yourself wondering about mysteries of the universe & the dark side of human history, get a copy of this recording today! It supersedes the original studio recording by allowing you to hear the actual concert performed by a live band at live Las Vegas show in the same sequence--only the non-musical comedy routines, & redundant choruses have been eliminated.

"Ouverture/Ramsani" opens with some annoying sounds of a baby crying (it's unfortunate they didn't edit this small section, which is the only low point of the production), but then kicks into a very powerful gear. During the performance, strange beings emerge from both sides of the stage, bathed in blinding light, while drummers pound out a Big Bang as they are lowered from the rafters above the gaping audience. Two celestial ladies sing in an other-worldly language that seems to praise the creation of this magical universe!

"Misha" is the most mystical & original-sounding track on the CD--it will totally entrance you! The first mystifying portion of it accompanies the performance of a man maneuvering within a giant steel cube, spiraling over the stage. During the final minute, the song rocks as he escapes the cube & twirls it miraculously like a baton!

"Egypte" provides a steady, Eastern-sounding march during which poles are set up on the stage for the next performance. Eerie, 2-faced creatures crawl headfirst down the 100-foot wall on either side of the stage like lizards from another galaxy!

"Rondo/Double Face" is a rocker with 2 crystal-crisp guitar solos that sound like Martin Barre of Jethro Tull at his finest! The Double-Faces perform amazing acrobatics leaping from pole to pole, grabbing the poles with only their legs!

"Ulysse" slows the pace down to a spooky level as 2 men manipulate each other into a series of unbelievable poses that defy gravity! The celestial ladies seem to cry, "Tristay mor!" Maybe this could translate: "Don't let go!"

"Dome" is a brief transitional piece; the previous act departs from the stage dome that lowers into a mist, & sets the mood for the following jungle sequence.

"Kalimando" & "Kunya Sobe" accompany a breathtaking bungee performance over the audience; the former is an uplifting ballad of epic proportion, while the latter provides a steady, groovy dance beat that'll make you wanna get up & get down! It's Tarzan on another planet!

"En Ville/Frisco" plays as the stage turns into an acrobatic madhouse! The sax on this song wails in harmony with the myriad of leaps & flips!

"Gambade" is another transitional piece for the extensive safety-net setup.

"High Bar" is the pinnacle of the show, both on the stage, & in the speaker system! This song truly captures the anticipation of watching trapeze artists. Even though the risk of injury is minimized by the safety net, it's still amazing to see these guys fling through the air on cue, & somehow manage to catch each other's hands. At times, the song delivers a powerful, unstoppable rhythm; then on cue with the performers, it suddenly halts as we hold our collective breath--then it allows us to breathe again while building up to the next stunt.

Approaching the show's end, an array of drums rises from the mist, & a battalion of drummers bang out "Taiko"!

"Finale", as you can imagine, summarizes the show, & recaps some of the melody presented during "Ouverture". After experiencing this thrilling musical spanning a range of human emotions, "Finale" closes the circle in a magnificent way!

mystere review.......2003-07-17

Cirque Du Soleil's Mystere is a visual and musical journey through
life's duality, its ceaseless wonders and
its corrupting vices. It is a sequence of acts which heavily
incorporates live music to define mood and add continuity.
The use of classical instruments, french vocalist, and influences from
various cultures add breathe and clarity to the
amazing physical performances.

"Egypte" begins with the chiming of bells that portends the coming
danger. Intermittent drumming gives way to a wordless
melody that is both hypnotic and eerie. The drums again become the
central sound, quickly partnering with a woodwind
instrument to create an Egyptian-like quality in the music. The singer
begins voicing french words before reverting back
to the original melody. The song seems to be a warning of the
uncertainty of life, the many dangerous roads fate
presents for our choosing. I feel the songs ominous tone is not meant
to frighten the audience, but rather allows us
to better understand life's dueling themes of love and hate. The even
paced and dramatic "Ulysse" is dominated by the
violin and the classically trained vocalist Nathalie Gauvin. The slow
tempo violin style compliments the even delivery
of the vocalist. Gauvins rendition echoes the themes of classicism,
strong and in complete balance with the
instrumental accompaniments.

Rarely does a song demonstrate the beauty of art through music as well
as "Kalimando." The song
begins with a slow tempo guitar rendition that segues into a lilting
female voice. The vocalist is able to
reflect a sadness for futures' past and a hope for
beginnings, all in the same breathe. It is this duplicity that invites
the audience to share in a world with invisible borders, a place where
the music adheres only to its own call.
The up tempo "Kunya Sobe" serves to elevate the mood of the audience.
An ensemble of drums, flute pipes, and an

Asian influenced melody parallel the high-energy acrobatic acts. In
this act particularly, the music binds the
audience and acrobats. It is the commonality between a world that
defies convention and a world restrained
by its self-imposed limits.

"Taiko" introduces itself with a haunting violin solo which is soon
joined by frantic
tribal-like drumming. The contrast in styles of the violin and drums is
a statement about the cruelties of a life
governed by someone else's pace. It is a reminder to live independent
of negative influences, to make mutually
exclusive unrealized potential and the realization of promise.

I would recommend the music because it accompanies the listener into a
world where truth is beyond reason, where
the questions are never subservient to the answers, and where the
tapestry of life is revealed in the
struggle between action and inaction.

Awsome!.......2003-03-06

Featuring songs to the main acts in the new version of the show which began in 1996 and continues today, the recording provokes the sixth sense and opens the third eye! Haunting, romantic and energetic music from a forgotten dream that one may remember!

Incredible!.......2003-02-12

This soundtrack is truly wonderful! The original Mystere soundtrack was good, but this one puts it to shame. The best songs on the cd, in my opinion, are Ouverture/Ramsani, Ulysse, High Bar, Taiko, and Finale. The haunting vocals on Ulysse and Finale are so chilling, they make you want to cry!

Simply amazing..........2002-04-09

Words alone cannot fully express this CD. To listen to Mystere is to embark on a journey throughout myth. It is said the disk is based on Greek themes, and the hint of various melodies from around the globe can definitely be heard throughout. This is the Cirque du Soleil way, is it not? The perfect blend of music from all cultures: we have the Japanese Taiko Drums in "Taiko", Rock and Roll/Sax solos within "En Ville/Frisco" and beautiful, ominously powerful melodies during "High Bar". Indeed, this CD is sure to please any fan of Cirque du Soleil - old or new - as it has a bit of every culture in it without being so 'out there' as to be annoying.

The vocals are outstanding and the musicians are absolutely amazing. To think that they do this twice a night, five times a week with this much quality is mind-numbing. The level of skill and deftness with which the overall CD is performed is enough to make any aspiring musician practice harder.

In all, this is a great CD to listen to after a long day to relax and energize yourself. The beat is steady, the words enchanting and journey timeless.

...Easily one of the best CD's Cirque du Soleil has produced...

Average customer rating: Simply awesome!

Le Mystère des Voix Bulgares, Vol. 3 Le Mystere Des Voix Bulgares Manufacturer: Polygram Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Bulgaria | Eastern Europe | Europe | International | Styles | Music General | Continental Europe | Europe | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | Jazz | Styles | Music Similar Items: Le Mystère des Voix Bulgares, Vol. 2 Ritual Le Mystère des Voix Bulgares Melody Rhythm & Harmony Voices of Life ASIN: B000008HM4 Release Date: 1991-02-19

Tracks:

1. Sekoi Fali
2. Dva Shopski Dueta - 4 Soloists
3. Shope Shope
4. Ghel Moma
5. Zlato Mori - Choir RTB
6. Aychinko Chereno
7. Yo Igra Oro - Choir RTB
8. Sedi Moma
9. Izlele Delio Haidutin - Choir RTB
10. Tri Shopski Pesni
11. Devojko Mari Hubava - Choi Rodopi-Smolian
12. Moma Voda Nossi - Choir Tolbuhin
13. Sedenk Arska - Choir Tolbuhin
14. Altan Mara

Customer Reviews:

Simply awesome! .......2005-05-25

I had the pleasure and the privilege to watch this fabulous group singing here in my contry, in the winter of '94. It was a mesmerising experience that I'll never forget. I already heard their music when I bought this cd about one or two years before and I simply loved it. It sounds so deep, intense and moving, with sophisticated harmonies and soulfull melodies, carring on all those ancient influences from a unexpected blend of two different cultures - slavic and turkish - that are easely recognized in the two best tunes "Sekoi Fali" and "Shope, Shope". The first one sounds like the chant of angels and the second one is full of energy, brilliant! It doesn't surprized me when I heard the audience, at the concert, begging for this song, in a July's cold night of 1994.

PS: the other songs are marvellous too!

Average customer rating: Not as good as the first one. Wonderful CD Arresting and Amazing Still Magic

Le Mystère des Voix Bulgares, Vol. 2 Le Mystère des Voix Bulgares Manufacturer: Nonesuch ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Bulgaria | Eastern Europe | Europe | International | Styles | Music General | Continental Europe | Europe | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music Similar Items: Le Mystère des Voix Bulgares Music of Bulgaria Voices of Life Ritual Le Mystère des Voix Bulgares, Vol. 3 ASIN: B000005IZF Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

1. Kaval Sviri(The Flute Plays)
2. Stani Mi, Maytcho(Get Up My Daughter)
3. Di-Li-Do
4. More Zanjeni Se Ghiouro
5. Tche Da Kupim Bela Seitsa (I'm Going To Buy You Some White Silk)
6. Ovdoviala Lissitchkata (The Fox Has His Cubs)
7. Messetchinko Lio (You Little Moon)
8. Ei Mori Roujke (You, Little Roujke)
9. Dragana I Slavei (Dragana's Song)
10. Atmadja Duma Strachilu (Revolutionary Song)
11. Dve Tourlaski Pesen (Teasing)
12. Trenke, Todorke
13. Bezrodna Nevesta ( Young Childless Wife)
14. Izpoved (Confession)
15. Ghiore Dos (Teasing)
16. Spis Li, Milke Le (If You Are Sleeping, Milke)

Customer Reviews:

Not as good as the first one........2006-08-15

This is such wonderful music, but it is not as good as the first volume.

Wonderful CD.......2003-12-25

A wonderful example of Bulgarian music, Le Mystere Des Voix Bulgares takes quality to the max. With a marvolous blend of voices and tone colors this music grabs you from the moment you put it in your cd player. I strongly suggest this album which is in many ways, too amazing to describe in words.

~Alicia~

Arresting and Amazing.......2003-08-07

Have you ever had that transporting experience in a church or other large open space listening to a bunch of singers do their thing acapella? This is like that. Play it loud and imagine their voices taking you with them. You will feel refreshed.

Still Magic.......2002-09-17

When you listen to Le Mystère des Voix Bulgares you feel like you are in some place else rather then Earth. This is a very good album with the same quality of the first one, which was a superb CD. The second one still brings you the angelical voices of these incredible women. The voice of Yanka Roupkina set up a standart in the frist one (third track, Kalimankou Denkou). If you liked the first one you certainly will like the second.

Average customer rating: Must Experience this music! consider the source... You've never heard anything like this My Deserted Island Music Otherworldly

Complete Box Set, Vol. 1-2/Ritual Le Mystère des Voix Bulgares Manufacturer: Nonesuch ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Bulgaria | Eastern Europe | Europe | International | Styles | Music General | Continental Europe | Europe | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music Similar Items: Voices of Life Music of Bulgaria Wintersongs Vine Nectar ASIN: B000005J3P Release Date: 1995-09-26

Tracks:

1. Pilentze Pee (Pilentze Sings)
2. Svatba (The Wedding)
3. Kalimankou Denkou (The Evening Gathering)
4. Strati na Angelaki Doumasche (Haiduk song)
5. Polegnala e Pschenitza (Harvest Song from Thrace)
6. Messetschinko lio Greilivko (Love Song from the Mountains)
7. Brei Yvane (Dancing Song)
8. Erghen Diado (Song of Schopsko)
9. Sableyalo mi Agontze (The Bleating Lamb)
10. Pritouritze Planinata (Song from the Thracian Plain
11. Mir Stanke le (Harvest Song from Thrace)
12. Schopska Pesen (Diaphonic Chant)
13. Polegnala e Todora (Love Song)

Tracks:

1. Kaval Sviri (The Flute Plays)
2. Stani Mi, Maytcho (Get Up, My Daughter)
3. Di-Li-Do (Prince)
4. More Zajeni De Ghiouro (Ghiouro Marries)
5. Tche Da ti Kupim Bela Seitsa (I'm Going to Buy You Some White Silk)
6. Ovdoviala Lissitchkata (The fox has Lost his Cubs)
7. Messetchyinko Lio (You , little moon)
8. Ei Mori roujke (You, Little Roujke)
9. Dragana i slavei (Dragana's Song)
10. Atmadja Duma Strachilu (Revolutionary song)
11. Dve Tourlaski Pesen (Teasing
12. Trenke, Todorke
13. Bezrodna Nevesta (Young childless Wife)
14. Izpoved (Confession)
15. Ghiore Dos (Teasing)
16. Spis li, Milke le (If You are sleeping, Milke)

Tracks:

1. Houbava Milka (Beautiful Milka)
2. Pesen na put (Singing on our Way)
3. Koledarska Pesen (A Christmas lad's song)
4. Trakiisko Nastoenie (Thracian easy mood)
5. Lazarski Bouenets (The Lazarus girls dance the Boueneck
6. Nazdrave ti, Chorbadjiio (Cheers To You, master of the House)
7. Shopski Tantsek (shope dancce)
8. La rosa en floresa (The Rose is blooming)
9. A senora novia (Go the new Bride
10. Lamenta (Lament)
11. Bulgarski Einicheski Melodii (Bulgarian ethnic melodies)
12. Mona houbava (Beautiful girl)
13. Vurba (Willow tree)
14. Za Mlado Momiche (Song for a young girl)
15. Mur Stho sme se razigrali (Hey, Let's dance [the boueneck]
16. Tebe Peem-za ovchariya (Song for the shepherd)
17. Ai Nazdrave (Cheers!)
18. zhalba za Lazar

Customer Reviews:

Must Experience this music!.......2006-01-08

I don't want to be redundant here, but just want to add a little more praise for this music:
I am a musician and can't even explain how superb and flawless this music is. It is deeply moving and perfectly expressive and oh so technically impressive! The singing is awesome and the sounds are very unique if you're not familiar with this group.

This 3CD set is the only item I have of theirs so I can't compare it to other albums, but I'm so glad I got this set since I'm able to sample so many songs of theirs---I wouldn't have been able to pick a single CD to try and so this seemed like a great way to be introduced to these women.

consider the source..........2002-07-11

I won't repeat any comments... these women have done a marvelous job fleshing out traditional songs and bringing them to a new audience. But those who are interested in the choir's dissonance, passion and ethereal tone should check out the more authentic music they pull from, even though it is not as polished and may not have as wide an appeal. When I was ten I heard the Byrd's shimmery version of Mr. Tambourine Man. When I was 16 I heard Bob Dylan's original six-string wheezing operetta and thought it was a horrific joke. Of course, now that's the version I prefer. *Both* have their place. A few Dylans available on Amazon (do a search): Bistritsa Grannies, Bulgaria: Traditional Singing (on the Ocora label. they put out several field recordings), the "Song of the Crooked Dance" compilation. Not on Amazon yet (but not hard to find): renowned ethnomusicologist Yves Moreau's Beyond the Mystery three-disc set (what do you think the title refers to?). The best collection of field recordings I have heard. Other choirs you might want to try (available on Amazon) are Bulgaria's Pirin Folk Ensemble (name varies) or Georgia's Rustavi Choir, though (as one reviewer says), they ain't the "male version of Le Mystere." Listen well before you buy.

You've never heard anything like this.......2001-12-23

For those of you in the US who are fans of vocal/choral music, prepare for an immense surprise. The Bulgarian Women's choir has a tendency to use voice in a manner that's quite unfamiliar to those of us from the West. It's amazing to hear what would normally be an entire instrumental montage forged from the voices of these women.

It can be a little tedious to make your way through this entire boxed set, but I've found that focusing on one or two pieces at a time, growing familiar with them, and then growing to appreciate them helped me make my way through the entire thing.

A few good ones to start with are "Pilientze Pee" (which actually means, 'a bird sings'), "Svatba", "Pritouritze Planinata", "Spis li, Milke le", and "La rosa en floresa". These represent what I consider the most accessible and comfortable songs on the set.

And for the skeptics out there who think this is nothing but over the top singing, remember that this is all recorded live, and not easy to perform. If you want to find out for yourself, sing with a friend and try to remain dissonant with them for more than two seconds. You have to train your ears before they'll let you do that.

Whatever you do, don't forget to add this to your shopping cart.

My Deserted Island Music.......2000-10-19

These ladies sing universes. Incredible, strange, dissonant, unbelievable harmones that make me gasp and cry.

Someone said that any art that moves the spectator must harness the concept of contrast. This amazing music covers the whole audible spectrum: from massive wave interference to sweet, delicate consonance; from bold, unfaltering vibrato-less pitches to subtle, gentle wavering over a note; from frolicking and fun to mournful and intensely moving.

In short, this music is some of the most unusual, extraordinary, elegant, expressive sound I have ever heard, and it is THE piece of music I would take with me to a deserted island if I could take only one. I would recommend this to anyone who is willing to listen attentively. It is almost impossible that one would do so and NOT be moved.

Otherworldly.......2000-08-08

The Bulgarian Female Vocal Choir has put forth here music that is at the same moment both haunting and joyous ~ Some of the harmonies herein, such as "Polegnala e Todora" tenaciously grasp my very soul. How does one go about describing music via the written word? One really must listen to this collection to come to know its essence and its virtue. This is music that's brought out the ghost in me ~~ These beautiful voices are rapt with the essence of a clean, fragrant breeze after a storm, a glimpse of ecstacy of a previous life perched upon the edge of remembrance. It is truly a celebration of the spirit ~

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