The Invitation

Editorial Reviews
WATB Radio AM1420
ASAPH's unbridled creativity and passion for Praise and Worship is manifested in the vibrant sounds of their tracks and thought provoking lyrics.

Fox 5 - News
New Contemporary Gospel Group ASAPH inspired the crowd to sing and dance with their commanding stage presence and desire to reach the people.

Album Description
Contemporary Gospel/Praise and Worship The impressive tempo changes and spicy percussive sounds keep your body moving.

The Invitation

Average customer rating:

spiritual americana
Rich Heritage
Superb
Can't walk away from it!
Mana from Heaven

American Angels

Manufacturer: Harmonia Mundi Fr.
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Gloryland
Wolcum Yule: Celtic and British Songs and Carols - Anonymous 4 with Andrew Lawrence-King
1000: A Mass for the End of Time / Anonymous 4
A Portrait Of Anonymous 4
The Origin of Fire: Music and Visions of Hildegard von Bingen

ASIN: B0001ADB4Q
Release Date: 2004-02-10

Tracks:

Holy Manna
Abbeville
Wondrous Love
Sweet Hour Of Prayer
Jewett
Dunlap's Creek
New Britain
The Morning Trumpet
Resignation
Poland
Wayfaring Stranger
Sweet By And By
Blooming Vale
Idumea (I)/Idumea (II)
Sweet Prospect
Shall We Gather At The River
Amanda
Invitation
Parting Hand
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Amazon.com

This, Anonymous 4's final recording, is a break from their usual "early music" periods and locations; it presents American music, religious in nature, from the 18th and 19th centuries. And it's absolutely beautiful from start to finish. Their normal, exquisite technique and purity here blend to sound the way we imagined the ladies' choir in church meetings in America past might have sounded: sweet, sincere, and with harmonies recognizable yet somehow fresh. Some of the songs begin with the women singing "fa, so la" exercises, which was called "shape note" singing because some places taught singing with notes as shapes--circle, rectangle, diamond, triangle. But it's the music that counts, and there are treasures here. They include two versions of "Amazing Grace," one familiar, one with an unusual melody and a piece called "Blooming Vale" which is as sophisticated as anything on their previous albums. "Shall We Gather at the River" is performed with a clarity and loveliness that makes us forget that it's normally sung as background to movies about the Great Depression. The foursome sometimes sing in rich harmonies and occasionally alone or in pairs or trios. This is glorious Americana and highly recommended. --Robert Levine

Customer Reviews:

spiritual americana.......2007-01-06

I have some of the older Anonymous 4 recordings which are more medieval
and gregorian in style (I love them!). They move on to cover spiritual
basics of the 1800s. If you like classical music, perfect harmonies
and spiritual americina, then you will be blessed!

Rich Heritage.......2006-10-11

Anonymous 4 consistently produces exquisite and authentically beautiful recordings and this one presents early American hymns in ways few groups can manage. Some tunes are highly recognizable while others are 'new' to me but a refreshing reminder of the singing heritage of religious societies in times past. For those who enjoy old hymns and authentic renderings, this is a must buy.

Superb .......2006-08-07

This collection of American Christian music is not only an enthralling musical experience but a spiritually uplifting one as well. Anonymous Four have transferred their luminous vocal quality to a new space with perfect success.

Can't walk away from it!.......2006-08-07

My only "complaint" about the CD is that I absolutely HAVE to sit and listen to the entire thing whenever I start it up! I usually have music playing in the background while doing other things, but not this one! There are no tracks that I find myself wanting to skip over as in most collections. In fact, I usually find myself going back and listening to selected tracks again (and again and...) after taking the hour+ to listen to the whole thing through once.

These four ladies produce a unique and remarkable sound. I can't recommend it enough.

Mana from Heaven.......2006-05-08

I think the title of this CD is perfect. I first heard an interview for this CD on Public Radio and fell in love. I had never heard Anonymous 4 before then but look for all I can find of their music now. The title is perfect as the women sound like Angels and the music lifts the spirit. I find myself singing the old version of Amazing Grace all the time now. Incredible and a huge blessing to all who hear it.

Average customer rating:

This is an amazing worship CD...
Absolutely Incredible!
Unbelievable Invitation!
Uplifting
Needs more work

An Invitation to Worship
Byron Cage
Manufacturer: Gospocentric
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Gospel | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Christian Contemporary Music | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music
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Finale Act II

ASIN: B000ANVPBK
Release Date: 2005-11-29

Tracks:

I Will Bless The Lord
I Will Bless The Lord (Reprise)
We Love You
Majesty
Praise The Name Of Jesus
In Case You've Forgotten
Breathe
Rain On Me
He Reigns
Broken But I'm Healed
Holy Holy Holy
Lift Him Up
Special Place
Praise Him
Worship The King
Invitation
Interlude: Closing Prayer

Customer Reviews:

This is an amazing worship CD..........2007-03-18

This is the first CD of Byron Cage I have ever heard. I can't tell you now what made me look for him except that it was the Spirit's leading. I was looking to refresh my gospel, P&W CD collection as I worship and workout to this music. I was led to this CD by Byron Cage and from the first song, I knew I had made a good choice. Not everyone who has a good singing voice can lead worship. You have to be Spirit-filled and Spirit-led to be a true worship leader, and Byron Cage is. God has touched him with a special gift and each song on this CD leads me deeper into worship when I hear it. I bought this and Judith Christie McAllister's "In His Presence Live" together; got one first then the other (hers) later. So I had time to listen to Byron Cage's over and over before I got turned onto the next one. If I had to choose which was my "favorite", I couldn't choose. I just feel so blessed to have them both to lead me into a deeper private worship experience with my Lord and Savior.

Absolutely Incredible!.......2007-03-10

I can't believe I waited so long to buy this CD; it's been in my car's cd player for several months now. Every song on here is so annointed. My day does not really get going until I hear "I Will Bless The Lord".

Unbelievable Invitation!.......2007-02-07

This is one invitation you do not want to turn down!! Byron Cage has an anointed voice and gift!! This CD is so powerful. I am really upset that more mainstream stations don't play his music. This CD lifted me up during a difficult time during the loss of my dad. I literally placed the CD in for the first time in November of 06 and it has been the only CD in my player for the past three months!! There is healing and salvation, joy and praise in this CD. Get it now!!!!

Uplifting.......2007-01-14

He has done it again. The Lord is using him in marvelous ways,

Needs more work.......2007-01-05

I can only connect with maybe 3 songs on this album. They are good, dont get me wrong, but when you've heard worship and then you've heard WORSHIP your expectation is greater.
He has some good worship songs and some lively songs of praise, but I think I've been too spoiled to really grab hold of this one.

Average customer rating:

Fantastic!
Loved the movie, love the score
4.5 Stars for The Greatest Game Ever Played
One of Brian Tyler's best

The Greatest Game Ever Played
Brian Tyler
Manufacturer: Hollywood Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Movie Scores | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

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ASIN: B000ASDGHQ
Release Date: 2005-09-27

Tracks:

Main Title Overture
Immigrant's Theme
Determination
The Amateur
Broken Dreams
A Call To Arms
The Greatest Game Ever Played
Dog Leg
Angel
Invitation
Broken Dreams Reprise
Ouimet Trails By One
Ride The High Country
Indecision
Heads Turn
The Game Is Afoot
An Unlikely Outcome
A Chance Encounter
And Then There Were Three
Ride The High Country Reprise
True Valor
A Quiet Dignity
Duel
Showdown
Sunset
Angel - Dawn Upshaw
The Band Played On - Amick Byram
Hello Hello Who's Your Lady Friend? - Joe Jackson
End Title Overture

Customer Reviews:

Fantastic!.......2007-01-09

As a movie soundtrack fan, I was immediately drawn to 'The Greatest Game Ever Played,' and when I got it just a few weeks ago, I wasn't dissapointed.
At first it sounds much like James Horner's 'Legends of the Fall,' but it is by no means a repeat of it. It is a beautifull soundtrack on it's own, with many different themes that keep it exciting. The music has the same early 1900's feel as the movie while stil maintaining a variety of music styles; from soaring strings to intense violin pieces to period vocals like "And the Band Played On." Like the movie, it has a very inspirational feel, and I would definately recommend it to anyone, whether fans of the movie or soundtrack lovers.

Loved the movie, love the score.......2006-03-17

I saw The Greatest Game Ever Played in the theater and became enchanted with this film, based on the true story of Francis Ouimet, a low-class amateur golfer who emerges from complete obscurity to win the U.S. Open. By the end of the movie, I realized how much I was enjoying the music and decided that I just had to buy the soundtrack.

As I have listened to this soundtrack again and again, I've been captivated by this music. The beauty and power of Brian Tyler's composition is most impressive. As an intent listener, I've been deeply moved by the expansive musical landscape that is covered in this soundtrack. The central motif, a majestic and magnanimous melody which forms the essence of the main title, is woven into tracks throughout the disc, tying everything together as part of a musical (and theatrical) storyline. Indeed, it seems like an incomplete experience if I don't listen to the entire soundtrack, start to finish, in sequential order. If you take the time to do that, you'll find it's a very rewarding listen.

4.5 Stars for The Greatest Game Ever Played.......2006-03-11

This was an excellent 10 dollar purchase from iTunes, to put it mildly. As much as I loved Tyler's The Final Cut, Darkness Falls, Timeline and Constantine scores, this tops them all. It's a loving tribute to the main character of the film and good ol' fashioned film scoring in general. I haven't seen the movie and therefore cannot comment on wether or not it works in the context of the film. I can, however, say with great pleasure what a joy it is to listen to as a solo album.
The album picks up with the main title track, and what a great track it is. Some people will say it is Horner reminiscent, and while many themes on this CD do remind me of James Horner's best work, I actually think the closer resemblance is John Debney. I'm serious - this score is in many ways similar to The Passion of the Christ. It has pounding drums and wonderful percussion and isn't afraid to go all out with the string and brass section. It's a thrilling, heroic, melodramatic and operatic score that I've enjoyed listening to repeatedly. A highly recommended score for anyone who enjoys breathtaking and moving and powerful and heroic sometimes lighthearted and always thrilling music.
cheers
KZ

One of Brian Tyler's best.......2005-10-01

Brain Tyler says of this score that "the orchestral music was influenced by the popular music of the end of the 19th Century and the start of the 20th Century - Debussy, Sibelius, Strauss, and Mahler. To me, the sound we know as 'American' was a combination of the styles of so many of these great European composers." As far as I'm concerned, this score was a lot more influenced by James Horner -- certain bits sound strikingly similar to Legends of the Fall. But don't let that put you off, because the rest of the bits don't. This score is beautiful, lively, energetic, exciting and ebullient Americana throughout -- an odd contrast to Tyler's last score, the dark beast that was Constantine. Despite the occasional "nods" to Horner, though, Greatest Game Ever Played is one of Tyler's best and most thoroughly enjoyable scores, well orchestrated and well recorded also. If it's not quite Children of Dune, it's certainly better than his best since, such as Timeline and The Final Cut, on par with his other score for Bill Paxton, Frailty, though obviously in a very different genre and with a very different sound. So if you're a fan of Brian Tyler or good, uplifting, exciting film music in general, definitely check out this score.

Average customer rating:

Magnificent
Joe does standards and the result is absolutely beautiful!
An Invitation To Listen To Joe Sample At His Very Best
Great Standard Tunes
Recommended Therapy......

Invitation
Joe Sample
Manufacturer: Warner Bros / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Ashes to Ashes
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ASIN: B000002MIJ
Release Date: 1993-03-23

Tracks:

Black Is The Color
A House Is Not A Home
Come Rain Or Come Shine
Invitation
Summertime
Nica's Dream
Stormy Weather
Django
My One And Only Love
Mood Indigo

Customer Reviews:

Magnificent.......2005-11-26

This is one of my favotite albums in my cd collection. Its the kind of music that put your mind at ease and makes you walk in the clouds. Its elegant and tasteful. A true gem in jazz music.

Joe does standards and the result is absolutely beautiful!.......2004-08-30

We are all Joe Sample fans because of a distinctive style of
piano playing that is catchy, charismatic, and sometimes
remarkably impressionistic with his gift to musically illustrate
the places and memories that have most affected his life.
In this album, we are delighted to hear him appreciate standards,
his acoustic piano woven with some of the most beautiful
orchestration I have ever heard. This is the album to make
you feel good, relaxed, the one for the Sunday afternoon, or
the cozy late night in front of the fire with favorite people.
All of the selections are wonderful, the album is first rate
from beginning to end. I have just rediscovered it again,
and am totally mesmerized by it!! Outstanding!!

An Invitation To Listen To Joe Sample At His Very Best.......2003-11-21

"I extend to you an invitation of timelessness, classicism,
and an insight into the great gifts of those who have come and gone,
and those who continue to give. The bond is eternal,
the gift is everlasting, and it is godliness." ~ Joe Sample

This wonderful CD has a special spot in my smooth jazz collection, along with "Carmel." All the melodies are great and truly remarkable that only a great jazz pianist such as Joe Sample can interpret with such an extraordinary artistry and elegance. This is unparalleled piano playing at its utmost best!

My personal favorites include "My One And Only Love," the title track "Invitation," "Stormy Weather," "Come Rain Or Come Shine" and "Summertime." My special mention goes to the second track "A House Is Not A Home." His interpretation of this Burt Bacharach/Hal David classic (with meaningful lyrics) is so poignant that it moved me to tears just listening to it! They say that there is a song for every experience in life.

This is one CD that will make you want to listen again and again. It's a must-have for all smooth jazz lovers. FYI: Joe Sample was nominated for Keyboardist of the Year 2003, and Male Artist of the Year 2003 in the 2003 National Smooth Jazz Awards. Congratulations, Mr. Sample!

Great Standard Tunes.......2002-05-28

If I want to "chill" as the young folks say, this is the CD I play.

For one thing, the songs are Joe's interpretation of some of the greatest standard tunes. The title track is my favorite ("Invitation") with "My One And Only Love" a very close second.

Joe has a way of putting you and "another world" by the way of his piano. Take me away, Joe!!

Recommended Therapy.............2002-05-25

to ease those tensions at the end of a day. It's about as good a mental massage as one can get......to take time out for a little introspection and complete relaxation while listening to this excellent selection and beautiful presentation of these standards ( from Gershwin to Bacharach, Ted Koehler, and Johnny Mercer to Horace Silver and John Lewis). That's quite a spread in one cd!.....and it all comes off well!

I listen with deep appreciation to Joe Sample's piano artistry, but I also have to give kudos to the orchestral arrangements and conducting by Dale Oehler......and probably the recording and mixing engineers for providing such great great sound.

Tracks:

Christmas Oratorio: Bereite Dich, Zion
Messiah: He Was Despised
Elijah: O Rest In The Lord
Alto Rhapsody
Ich Bin Der Welt Abhanden Gekommen
L'Invitation Au Voyage
Pie Jesu (From The Requieum Op.9)
Sea Pictures Op.37: I. Sea Slumber-Song
Sea Pictures Op.37: II. In Haven
Sea Pictures Op.37: III. Sabbath Morning At Sea
Sea Pictures Op.37: IV. Where Corals Lie
Sea Pictures Op.37: V. The Swimmer
The Angel's Farewell - Ambrosian Singers

Tracks:

Linden Lea
A Boy Was Born, Op.3: Corpus Christi Carol
Pretty Ring Time
Prison
Soir
Clair De Lune
Ave Maria (Ellens Gesang III)
Gretchen Am Spinnrade
Wiegenlied (Schlafe, Schlafe)
Die Forelle
Auf Dem Wasser Zu Singen
An Die Musik
An Sylvia
Nacht Und Traume
Heidenroslein
Du Bist Die Ruh'
Auf Flugeln Des Gesanges
Liederkreis, Op.39: Mondnacht
Frauenliebe Und -Leben Op.42: Du Ring An Meinem Finger
Geistliches Wiegenlied
Befreit
Morgen!

Amazon.com

While it is impossible to really squeeze The Very Best of Janet Baker onto just two CDs, this two and a half hour anthology is a fine portrait of the British mezzo-soprano. Central to CD 1 is Elgar's Sea Pictures, a definitive account with the London Symphony Orchestra conducted by Sir John Barbirolli. While other British music is represented by Vaughan Williams's "Linden Lea," Britten's "Corpus Christie Carol," and Warlock's "Pretty Ring Time," CD 2 balances the program with 10 Schubert songs accompanied at the piano by either Gerald Moore or Geoffrey Parsons, which range from "Ave Maria" to Shakespeare. The set lends equal weight to orchestral and more intimate song, as well as to works in English--a very moving reading of Handel's "He was despised" from Messiah--and European landmarks, including Mendelssohn's On Wings of Song and Brahms's Alto Rhapsody, the latter with a superlative London Philharmonic Orchestra under Sir Adrian Boult. In an age of technically dazzling but sometimes bland singers, this release is a reminder of emotionally intense musicianship that retains vocal clarity and commitment to the composer's intentions over superstar ego. The word great is often used all too easily, but it could not be more appropriate for this outstanding collection of a great singer. --Gary S. Dalkin

Customer Reviews:

The Very Best of Janet Baker is simply the very best!.......2005-02-09

This cd and this amazing musician are an absolute must have for any music lover or music snob alike! Her voice is amazing!

Grace Incarnate.......2002-09-02

If there is one singer who has ever truly been able to master the singer's art of interpretation, this is her. She is a gift to music, I truly believe this. A few words, or glowing adjectives could not accurately describe the singing of a woman who epitomizes art. And music. Grace and beauty.
Each track on this cd is a perfect union of poetry, melody and technicality. Dame Janet Baker fully immerses herself into each piece, and delivers highly commited, intelligent & emotional performances.

A Rare & Glorious Singer.......2002-06-10

This is a pretty good cross-section of Dame Janet's output from the prime of her career. There are few if any singers like her around today. There are many mezzos who can sing beautifully, with great articulation and finesse, but they lack the moral and musical integrity Dame Janet always brought to her singing. The voice is ardent, seeking, yearning, finding, exulting. Listen to the excerpt from "Dream of Gerontius" or the third of the "Sea Pictures" to see what I mean.
She does not sing to show off. She sings to enlighten, to illuminate, to reveal, to enter into. Her voice carries us off, near to Heaven.
Dame Janet has been neglected of late. This recording shows us why, in these perilous times, we need her more than ever.

Average customer rating:

ORDER AND BEAUTY
Breathtaking

The Songs of Henri Duparc

Manufacturer: Hyperion UK
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Fauré - The Complete Songs, Vol. 4 ~ Dans un parfum de roses
Songs by Bizet

ASIN: B000002ZLE
Release Date: 1993-06-21

Tracks:

L'Invitation au voyage
Serenade florentine
Testament
Phidyle
Extase
La vague et la cloche
Chanson triste
Le Galop
Romance de Mignon
Serenade
La Fuite
Lamento
Elegie
Le manoir de Rosemonde
Au pays ou se fait la guerre
Soupir
La vie anterieure

Customer Reviews:

ORDER AND BEAUTY.......2006-08-30

Duparc composed little and published less. The 17 songs with piano (including one duet) that we have on this disc - just over one hour of music - constitute virtually all he chose to leave us as a musical legacy after more than 80 years of life. Some of the poets he set are familiar names - Baudelaire, Gautier, Sully-Prudhomme, Leconte de Lisle, one translation from Goethe - but three of the 17 are by one Jean Lahor. What they have as a common theme is a sense of incapacity to deal with mundane life, this manifested in the earlier poems as an escape into fantasy and dreams, lapsing into lonely sadness in the later. Whether the poetry of Lahor is of `middling quality', in the supercilious phrase of the liner-note writer, I wouldn't be knowing. My own French has no difficulty with understanding the literal meaning of anything here, and it is probably up to recognising the stature of Baudelaire, but whether it is good enough to pass such judgments on the plain and innocent-seeming verses of Lahor I am not so sure. It seems to me that a native speaker of French might miss the magic behind the simple diction of Housman, and what I seem to find in Lahor is at least a patent and fragile sincerity.

This poetry is set to a music of exquisite refinement and poise. There is clear influence from Wagner in one or two ways, particularly in some of the more vigorous accompaniments and probably also in the almost total avoidance of word-repetition, but the very French sense of atmosphere is as strong as it is in Debussy, and the vocal lines combine a Wagnerian flexibility with a delicate lyricism that recalls Berlioz. Duparc was also an outright perfectionist, and perfectionism is catching. It infects even such a slattern as I am myself when I listen to these fine-spun little masterpieces, and it seems to me that nothing less than total perfection in their performance can do them full justice.

What I find in this recital is total perfection from Thomas Allen, but only excellence from Sarah Walker and Roger Vignoles. They all show thorough understanding of this music, and they convey their understanding with both power when required and discretion, which is always required. I could probably ask for nothing more by way of insight into the soul of the works. Where I find something slightly lacking is at a more mundane level. Apart from a couple of slightly uneasy high notes, Sarah Walker's technical command is assured, and I feel more than a little ungallant in saying crudely that her voice is not quite what is needed for Duparc - it is just slightly ordinary, and her French is not as good as Allen's either. As the recital progressed I longed more and more for Veronique Gens, whose memorable Berlioz Nuits d'Ete came back forcefully into my mind. As for the accompaniment, it calls for the highest praise in its mastery of the idiom and style (which are more varied than you might expect). Vignoles catches the special and elusive atmosphere of this special and elusive composer with genuine and deep insight, and there is real and impressive power in the later sequences of the last song of all. However the shortcomings - slight but in this context very telling - are once again at a more humdrum level. The touch needs to be the last word in the `order, beauty, comfort, peace and pleasure' that Baudelaire himself yearns for in `L'Invitation au Voyage'. In particular the frequent tremolando sequences call for superhuman evenness, and when I ask myself `Who do I want to be doing this?' the answer that comes to me is as much a fantasy as anything in the poems - I want Michelangeli.

For some reason credits are given in the liner to the translators of only three of the poems. I can think of no reason for this discrimination, and all the translations are in my own opinion excellent. I spotted no misprints in either English or French, unless Baudelaire's `ciels', which Lahor and I thought was `cieux', is one of those and not his divine afflatus as I am assuming. The liner-note itself is businesslike and informative, and the recorded quality gives me no grounds for criticism. This is a fine production, and whether or not I have laboured my reservations unduly I recommend it cordially. Perfection was what I had wanted. It is not quite what I have got, but I have got a great deal nonetheless, and it may be a long time before I am given as much again.

Breathtaking.......2002-08-23

The music of Duparc is as intense, layered, complex, and as emotional as the man who wrote it - who in fact, drove himself mad in the process. To convey this music effectively, a journey must be taken by the vocalist and the pianist into rich text and engulfing harmonies, without drowning in over analysis & self indulgence. There is a foreboding sense of secret, or the opening of a private self, and a great vulnerability and tenderness in this music. Here, the vocalists Allen & Walker, present immaculate readings of these 17 works, along with the supreme artisty of Vignoles. These recorded pieces are such exquisite duets between voice and piano that they leave you in rapture. Walker's mellifluous "Extase" with it's Wagnerian, lush accompaniment is impeccable and haunting. Allen opens his soul, along with those of the poet and composer, in "Soupir" - laden with all the angst of unrequited love. Both he and Vignoles transport their listener heavenward on soft stardust in their intimate "Serenade Florentine". This is divinely inspired music. Honest. Unpretentious. Transcendental.

The Very Best of Victoria de los Angeles

Average customer rating:

Very nice introduction to the work of a great soprano
The very best performance by Victoria de los Angeles
In Memoriam: A Tribute To The Late Victoria
the genius of de los angeles
A n angelic voice

The Very Best of Victoria de los Angeles
Victoria De Los Angeles
Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
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Very Best of
The Very Best of Janet Baker
The Very Best of Franco Corelli

ASIN: B000083GOE
Release Date: 2003-04-22

Tracks:

O Mio Babbino Caro
Un Bel Di Vedremo
Si. Mi Chiamano Mimi - Jussi Bjorling
Senza Mamma
Voi Lo Sapete, O Mamma
Qual Fiamma Avea Nel Guardo!... Hui! Stridono Lassu
Ebben? Ne Andro Lontana
Nacqui All'Affano...Non Piu Mesta
Una Voce Poco Fa
E Strano!... Ah, Fors' E Lui...Sempre Libera
Porgi, Amor
Dich, Teure Halle
Einsam In Truben Tagen
Je Ne Suis Que Faiblesse...Adieu, Notre Petite Table
Les Grands Seigneurs...Ah! Je Ris
Quand Je Vous Aimerai?...L'Amour Est Un Oiseau Rebelle

Tracks:

Auf Flugein Des Gesanges
Ich Liebe Dich
Wiegenlied
Les Filles De Cadiz
Cuba Dentro De Un Piano
Chevre
Punto De Habanera
Cancion De Cuna Para Dormir A Un Negrito
Canto Negro
De Espana Vengo
Cancion Del Amor Dolido
Cancion Del Fuego Fatuo
La Pastoura Als Camps
Bailero
Chut, Chut
Uno Jionto Postouro
Oh! Had I Jubal's Lyre
An Die Musik
Dein Blaues Auge
Vergebliches Standchen - Gerald Moore
L'Invitation Au Voyage
La Flute Enchantee
Chanson Espagnole
Chanson Francaise
Chanson Italienne
Clavelitos!
Malaguena - Gerald Moore
Granadina - Gerald Moore
Adios, Granada
Zapateado (La Tarantula E Un Bicho Mu Malo) - Alicia De Larrocha

Customer Reviews:

Very nice introduction to the work of a great soprano.......2007-07-13

This 2 CD set is a terrific introduction to the body of work of Victoria de los Angeles. As the "liner notes" point out: "She was an artist who brought individuality and a sense of joy to everything she performed. . . ." And this is not hyperbole. She was a top soprano in the middle part of the twentieth century.

Some cuts exemplify her art:

"Un bel di" is a ravishing version of this well known aria. She demonstrates a rich voice with fine musicality. This is a ravishing version of this aria. The singer displays good vocal control. There are nice transitions across the registers.

"Si, mi chiamano Mimi" is another well known work for sopranos. Again, nicely done. She appears (to me anyhow) to catch the spirit of Mimi very nicely indeed.

From "La Traviata," she essays "E strano. . .Sempre Libera." This is an affecting version. She does not have the coloratura armamentarium that some have brought to bear on this aria, but she does a fine job nonetheless. She seems to capture the desperate spirit of Violetta in "Sempre Libera."

Rossini's "Una voce poco fa" is a nice tour de force for sopranos. De los Angeles does a nice job here. This is a work from the Bel canto repertoire, but she does well. She shows vocal agility and captures the spirit of the work. This is an affecting, charming version. There is some occasional vocal harshness, but not a serious issue.

From "Carmen," "L'amour est un oiseau rebelle." Richly and nicely sung.

Her range on this CD is worth noting: from Puccini and Verdi to Wagner to Rossini to Gounod.

And then another of her specialties--songs. She does a nice turn with the Spanish song "Malaguena." Then, in a nice twist, she accompanies herself on guitar in "Adios Granada." I'm not normally so excited about songs, but in this case I found her work enchanting.

So, if you want to get a sense of the artistry of Victoria de los Angeles, this is an excellent starting point. Highly recommended!

The very best performance by Victoria de los Angeles.......2006-09-13

Is the recording on Allegro records of her performance of Madame Butterfly in New Orleans in 1954, not the Rome recording. She is simply radiant, perfect, a voice truly that is a victory for the angels. Unbelievably marvelous.

In Memoriam: A Tribute To The Late Victoria.......2005-02-01

Victoria De Los Angeles died Saturday of heart failure at the age of 83 in Barcelona, Spain. The world of opera mourns her loss. She was a gifted soprano and a wonderful human being. On stage, she was able to directly speak to her audience and communicate with them in a very special and rare way that is not always seen today. She never hid herself behind a facade nor distanced herself from fans and audiences. She was born to sing opera. It was in her blood. This album showcases De Los Angeles in her most memorable and successful roles. Victoria De Los Angeles was one of the first singers from Spain to win worldwide acclaim. Others would follow- Placido Domingo and Montserrat Caballe. De Los Angeles is showcased in this album which may also serve as a tribute to the now late soprano.

Her voice was essentially full lyric with some spinto. Hearing her renditions of "O Mio Babbini Caro"- a signature soprano role, as well as "Ebben Ne Andro Lontana" from La Wally and her performances as Mimi, one is clearly treated to the truest form of a pure lyric soprano. Her voice is spunned gold, with sweet, warm, feminine textures. Her reperotire remained in the Italian and French. Of course, being Spanish, she was a leading singer in Spanish Lieder and romantic ballads. Her Art Songs in Spanish are full of elegance and grace. A champion of obscure composers, she sang and recorded recitals that featured the works of lesser known composers, though strictly Lieder and Folk/Art Song.

Victoria De Los Angeles is fortunately a well-documented artist. Some film footage exist of her performances. I seem to recall that there exists a taped performance of her Violetta in Verdi's La Traviata. She excelled in the lyric roles of Mimi in Puccini's La Boheme, Marguerite in Gounod's Faust. Her Madame Butterfly is a pure lyric rendition, with less of the dramatic intensity other singers have given the role- i.e. Leontine Price, Maria Callas, Renata Tebaldi, etc. But her Butterfly is actually the way the role ought to be sung. It's a voice of grace, naivete and above all romance that must colorize Butterfly. The dramatic intensity only makes her sound older and madly passionate. She is only a fifteen year old girl who has been deceived and betrayed. She must remain youthful sounding. De Los Angeles does justice to the truest form of Butterfly. She was thrilling in French and Italian operas and her Spanish songs were briliant and beautiful.

Victoria will always be remembered. She was a unique and talented artist of the lyric repertoire. Her pure, lovely voice was like an angel's. There will never be another Victoria De Los Angeles. With her death, the end of an era also passes. In particular, I will always remember one reported incident. She was about to make her first recital in America but she had no accompanist- pianist/guitarist etc. When asked how she would handle this, she remarked: "Well I brought my guitar with me". And she proceeded to accompany herself with the guitar.

the genius of de los angeles.......2004-02-14

the incomparable de los angeles combines exquisite sound and nuance to the world of superb singing. her mastery of a variety of styles is astounding and yet it always sounds natural.her magic will live forever.

A n angelic voice.......2004-02-06

De los Angeles' ability to sing with elegance and style has rarely been equalled and never been surpassed. She's the greatest Charlotte in "Werther", the most tender Santuzza in "Cavalleria Rusticana" and the most sumptuos Nedda in "I Pagliacci". Her Lieder-Recordings are legendary, my favourites are the Spanish ones of course. What a piano-culture and what a velvet sound! Get this set, it's cheap and it has GREAT singing!

Average customer rating:

Smooth. Seductive. Alluring. Inviting.
MOOD SETTER
No disappointment with this!
Wonderful CD!
Truly An Invitation

Invitation Only
Will Downing
Manufacturer: Motown
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000001EXV
Release Date: 1997-10-28

Tracks:

Island
All About You
Angel
I Don't Want To Lose You
Eternal Love
These Things
If She Knew
Personal
If I Could
Come To Me
When Sunny Gets Blue
Before We Say Goodbye

Customer Reviews:

Smooth. Seductive. Alluring. Inviting........2004-12-08

"Angel", "Island", "If She Knew" and "When Sunny Gets Blue" are among the most heartfelt and romantic soul ballads recently recorded. Will Downing's ultra-smooth baritone voice instantly puts you in a romantic mood. Wether you listen to this CD in the wee hours of the morning at your local cocktail lounge or while having a candlelight dinner with a special someone or during lovemaking it is sure to please. This is one invitation I'll gladly accept time and time again.

MOOD SETTER.......2004-07-04

GREAT CD FOR FIRST DATE
JUST PUT THE CD ON AND LISTEN,
WILL, WILL DO THE REST.

No disappointment with this!.......2004-02-17

I got this album back in 1998 for V-tines Day and it still is among my top favorites. I go back and listen to it quite often and even play it at work. Eternal Love and Island are among my top fav's but this is a MOOD SETTER...be cautious LOL!!

Wonderful CD!.......2003-06-21

I really did not begin to appreciate the talent of Will Downing until recently, although I have always heard and listened to his music....But lately I have really begun to enjoy and appreciate what he has to offer. I love this CD!!!! His voice is so soothing, no matter what your mood is, listening to this CD will definitely relax you...In my opinion the first 4 songs are the best, but the entire CD is great! My favorite of all is "All about you"....... I just ordered two more of his CD's...

He was scheduled for a concert here in Philly two weeks ago, but cancelled due to illness. I look forward to his return....

Truly An Invitation.......2002-03-02

Jazzy and Soulful/Smooth and Classy........Listening to this CD is a cleansing, de-stressing experience. When I first heard the song "Island" on New York's CD 101.9, I knew that the rest of this CD was a "must have" - especially when it was announced that the title of the CD was "BY INVITATION ONLY". This CD truly lives up to this title........it is an invitation to be transported from fast living, daily job/career pressures to something soothing, pleasurable, and quiet, romantic thoughts. For all of my fellow Old School R&B listeners, take note of Will Downing's version "I Don't Want to Lose You"........one of the song that will be a true Will Downing trademark but at the same time keeps the spirit of the "Stylistics" classic.

Average customer rating:

One of this band's best.
Great CD to add to any collection.
Jaco's best live album

Invitation
Jaco Pastorius
Manufacturer: Wea/Warner Special Marketing
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000056P05
Release Date: 2001-01-29

Tracks:

Invitation
Amerika
Soul Intro/The Chicken
Continuum
Liberty City
Sophisticated Lady
Reza/Giant Steps/Reza (Reprise)
Fannie Mae
Eleven

Album Description

Mid-price remastered digipak. This live album was originally released in 1983 and features 9 tracks including, 'Amerika', 'Liberty City', 'Reza' & 'Eleven'.

Album Details

Remastered from Original Analogue Tapes.

Customer Reviews:

One of this band's best........2005-02-04

This live recording is one of WoM's best -- the sound is good, and the blowing is excellent. I'm not that thrilled by Toots chromatic harmonica, and while there is some on this record, there's not a lot. I wish someone would put out a 2 CD set of the best of the live WoM, but until that happens, I'll be happy with this.

Great CD to add to any collection........2004-04-29

This is a quality Jaco recording. The Bass is indeed way up front, but you'll get no arguments from me. I sincerely disbelieve that Jaco was meant to be heard in perfectly mixed and mastered environments. It's raw, but aside from the mixing the sound quality is great. The big band and Jaco are very tight - it's very reminiscent of some of Jaco's live performances with Birelli Lagrene although he doesn't make an appearance on this slbum.

Jaco's best live album.......2001-12-08

I've had this since its original release in 1983. It is completly superior to the birthday concert cd and all of the NYC and Punk Jazz discs. It features a large band, that is well rehearsed. And the material is treated to well structured arrangements. It is focused but still contains some great improvisation. Tracks that stand out are; reza, invitation, and one of his better renditions of continuum.

Two Pianos in Hollywood/Invitation to Love

Average customer rating:

THE EPITOME OF EASY LISTENING MUSIC
Great sound, great music!

Two Pianos in Hollywood/Invitation to Love
Ronnie Aldrich
Manufacturer: Dutton Labs UK
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B0002OTIAM
Release Date: 2004-08-23

Tracks:

Shadow of Your Smile [From 'The Sandpiper']
Lara's Theme [From 'DR. Zhivago']
Strangers in the Night [From 'A Man Could Get Killed']
Chim Chim Cher-Ee [From 'Mary Poppins']
Limelight
Bible
Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?
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Apartment
Patch of Blue
Lawrence of Arabia
Cherish
Gypsys, Tramps and Thieves
Theme [From 'Summer of '42'] - Ronnie Aldrich, , London Festival Orchestra, Chorus
I'd Like to Teach the World to Sing
Baby I Want You - Ronnie Aldrich, , London Festival Orchestra, Chorus
Theme [From 'The Onedin Line'] - Ronnie Aldrich, , London Festival Orchestra, Chorus
Theme [From 'The Go-Between'] - Ronnie Aldrich, , London Festival Orchestra, Chorus
I Could Be Happy With You [From 'The Boyfriend'] - Ronnie Aldrich, , London Festival Orchestra, Chorus
Imagine
Invitation to Love - Ronnie Aldrich, , London Festival Orchestra, Chorus
Diamonds Are Forever