I Don't Believe You [CD-single]

I Don't Believe You [CD-single]

Track Listings

1. I Don't Believe You [Album Version]
2. I Don't Believe You [Instrumental]
3. I Don't Believe You [Funky Redneck Remix by Kutmasta Kurt]
4. I Don't Believe You [Instrumental]

I Don't Believe You,Kool Keith,Threshold Records,Hip-Hop,Pop,Rap & Hip-Hop,Underground Rap


I Don't Believe You [CD-single]

Broadway - The American Musical (PBS Series)
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Fabulous for any Broadway-lover
  • Top Shelf
  • TERRIFIC CD'S
  • Great Collection of Broadways greatest Songs
  • Great Compilation!
Broadway - The American Musical (PBS Series)

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

BalletsBallets | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by BernsteinAll Works by Bernstein | Bernstein, Leonard | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by GershwinAll Works by Gershwin | Gershwin, George | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by PorterAll Works by Porter | Porter, Cole | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by WeillAll Works by Weill | Weill, Kurt | ( W ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by ManciniAll Works by Mancini | Mancini, Henry | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
Modern & 20th CenturyModern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
EnglishEnglish | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
GermanGerman | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
Movie ScoresMovie Scores | Soundtracks | Styles | Music
Movie SoundtracksMovie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Soundtracks | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music
Classical Instrumental MusicClassical Instrumental Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
Opera & VocalOpera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
MusicalsMusicals | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. The Best of Broadway - The American Musical (PBS Series)
  2. Broadway: The American Musical
  3. Broadway: The American Musical
  4. Broadway - The American Musical (PBS Series)
  5. Somewhere over the Rainbow: The Golden Age of Hollywood Musicals

ASIN: B00064ADMK
Release Date: 2004-10-19

Tracks:

  1. Give My Regards To Broadway- Joel Grey
  2. Swanee- Al Jolson
  3. When The Moon Shines On The Moonshine- Bert Williams
  4. A Pretty Girl Is Like A Melody- John Steel
  5. My Man- Fanny Brice
  6. Fascinating Rhythm- Fred Astaire, Adele Astaire
  7. If You Knew Susie (Like I Know Susie)- 78rpm Version Eddie Cantor
  8. Someone To Watch Over Me- Gertrude Lawrence
  9. Bill- 78 rpm Version Helen Morgan
  10. Ol' Man River- Paul Robeson
  11. Ain't Misbehavin'- Louis Armstrong & His Orchestra
  12. Ten Cents A Dance- Ruth Etting
  13. Body And Soul- Libby Holman
  14. Brother, Can You Spare A Dime- Bing Crosby
  15. Night And Day- Fred Astaire
  16. Heat Wave- Ethel Waters
  17. Smoke Gets in Your Eyes- Tamara
  18. You're The Top- Ethel Merman
  19. Summertime- Anne Brown
  20. September Song- Walter Huston
  21. My Heart Belongs To Daddy- Mary Martin
  22. It Never Entered My Mind- Shirley Ross
  23. Bewitched, Bothered, Bewildered- Vivienne Segal
  24. Oh, How I Hate To Get Up In The Morning- Irving Berlin
  25. Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin'- Alfred Drake

Tracks:

  1. New York, New York- Cris Alexander,Adolph Green,John Reardon
  2. If I Loved You- John Raitt,Jan Clayton
  3. Come Rain Or Come Shine- Ruby Hill,Harold Nicholas
  4. There's No Business Like Show Business- Ensemble
  5. How Are Things In Glocca Morra? From "Finian's Rainbow"- Ella Logan
  6. Once In Love With Amy- Ray Bolger
  7. Wunderbar- Alfred Drake,Patricia Morison
  8. Some Enchanted Evening- Ezio Pinza
  9. Lost In The Stars- Todd Duncan
  10. Diamonds Are A Girl's Best Friend- Carol Channing
  11. Luck Be A Lady- Robert Alda,Guys
  12. Getting To Know You- Gertrude Lawrence
  13. Who Cares?- Jack Carson,Betty Oakes
  14. Stranger In Paradise- from " Kismet" Doretta Morrow,Richard Kiley
  15. Ballad Of Mack The Knife- Gerald Price
  16. Hey There- from "The Pajama Game" John Raitt
  17. Whatever Lola Wants- Gwen Verdon
  18. I Could Have Danced All Night- Julie Andrews
  19. Standing On The Corner- from "The Most Happy Fella, 1956" Shorty Long,John Henson,Alan Gilbert
  20. The Party's Over- Judy Holliday
  21. Glitter And Be Gay- Barbara Cook
  22. Tonight- Larry Kert, Carol Lawrence

Tracks:

  1. Seventy-Six Trombones- Robert Preston
  2. I Enjoy Being A Girl- from "Flower Drum Song, 1958" Pat Suzuki
  3. Everything's Coming Up Roses- Ethel Merman
  4. My Favorite Things- from "The Sound Of Music" Mary Martin
  5. Put On A Happy Face- from "Bye Bye Birdie" Dick Van Dyke
  6. Try To Remember- Jerry Orbach
  7. Camelot- from "Camelot" Richard Burton
  8. Love Makes The World Go 'Round- Anna Maria Alberghetti
  9. I Believe In You- Robert Morse And Co.
  10. The Sweetest Sounds- Diahann Carroll,Richard Kiley
  11. Comedy Tonight- Zero Mostel
  12. What Kind Of Fool Am I?- Anthony Newley
  13. As Long As He Needs Me- Georgia Brown
  14. Hello, Dolly!- Carol Channing,Cast
  15. People- Barbra Streisand
  16. Anyone Can Whistle- from "Anyone Can Whistle" Lee Remick
  17. If I Were A Rich Man- Zero Mostel
  18. Night Song- Sammy Davis, Jr.
  19. The Impossible Dream- Richard Kiley
  20. If My Friends Could See Me Now- Gwen Verdon
  21. Open a New Window- from Mame Voice

Tracks:

  1. Willkommen- from "Cabaret" Joel Grey
  2. Let The Sunshine In- James Rado,Lynn Kellogg,Melba Moore,Cast
  3. I'll Never Fall In Love Again- Jill O'Hara,Jerry Orbach
  4. The Ladies Who Lunch- from "Company" Elaine Stritch
  5. Tea For Two- Roger Rathburn,Susan Watson
  6. I'm Still Here- Yvonne De Carlo
  7. I Don't Know How To Love Him- Yvonne Elliman
  8. We Go Together- Adrienne Barbeau,Barry Bostwick,Walter Bobbie,Cast
  9. Corner Of The Sky- John Rubinstein
  10. Send In The Clowns- Glynis Johns
  11. Ease On Down The Road- Stephanie Mills,Tiger Haynes,Ted Ross,Hinton
  12. One- from "A Chorus Line" Cast
  13. All That Jazz- Chita Rivera,Ensemble
  14. Tomorrow- Andrea Mcardle
  15. Don't Cry For Me Argentina- Patti Lupone
  16. Come Follow The Band
  17. Lullaby Of Broadway- Jerry Orbach
  18. And I'm Telling You I'm Not Going- Jennifer Holliday
  19. The Bells Of St. Sebastian- Raul Julia

Tracks:

  1. Memory- Betty Buckley
  2. I Am What I Am- George Hearn
  3. Move On- Bernadette Peters,Mandy Patinkin
  4. Do You Hear The People Sing?- Michael Maguire,Cast
  5. The Music Of The Night- Michael Crawford
  6. You're Nothing Without Me- James Naughton,Gregg Edelman
  7. The American Dream- Jonathan Pryce,Cast
  8. Doctor Jazz- Gregory Hines,Company
  9. With One Look- Glenn Close
  10. On Broadway- Adrian Bailey,Frederick B. Owens,Ken Ard,Victor Trent Cook
  11. Le Jazz Hot- Julie Andrews,Ensemble
  12. Seasons Of Love-
  13. Hakuna Matata- Max Casella,Tom Alan Robbins,Scott Irby-Ranniar,Jason Raize
  14. I Wanna Be A Producer- Matthew Broderick,Ensemble
  15. Dancing Queen- Louise Plowright,Jenny Galloway
  16. Good Morning Baltimore- Marissa Jaret Winokur
  17. Movin' Out- Michael Cavanaugh,Band
  18. I Go To Rio- Hugh Jackman,Company
  19. Defying Gravity- Kristin Chenoweth,Idina Menzel

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Fabulous for any Broadway-lover.......2007-01-30

Packs into 5 CD's a sampling of Broadway tunes from the 20's thru (almost) today, mostly from original cast recordings. Includes not just well-known hits, but also some lesser-known gems. Sound quality is first rate, booklet is informative too. Have given this as a gift to several friends with rave reviews.

5 out of 5 stars Top Shelf.......2007-01-04

This is THE definitive collection of Broadway hits. I have other collections, and none of them measure up. A great deal of care was obviously taken in compiling and presenting this box set. It covers a lot of ground, starting with some long-forgotten but still very enjoyable hits from the days of yore, and finishing with present-day favorites. To the best of my knowledge, the recordings are by those who made them famous. You won't be disappointed.

5 out of 5 stars TERRIFIC CD'S.......2006-03-23

THESE BROADWAY MUSICALS CD'S ARE A BROADWAY LOVERS DREAM. WITH EACH SONG, MEMORIES COME FLOODING BACK. BOTH THE FAMILIAR AND THE FORGOTTEN SONGS ARE A TRUE LISTENING PLEASURE. IF YOU LIKE BROADWAY, YOU'LL LOVE THIS SET.

5 out of 5 stars Great Collection of Broadways greatest Songs .......2005-06-14

This Collection was perfectly made it has almost all the most famous Broadway songs on this 5 cd set. The Music is great and has Broadways greatest treasures like "Memory""People""With One Look""Give my regards Too Broadway" just to name a few of this numerous cd set with over 100 songs. This is a great buy if you like musicals or The music of Broadway

5 out of 5 stars Great Compilation!.......2005-01-17

If you are a fan of the Broadway Musicals, this is a collection that you should purchase. Since I got the 5 disc set I've enjoyed listening to it. The majority of the songs are done by the original singers. The collection is priceless considering that you will have over 100 songs from popular musicals since the beginning of Broadway
Dreamgirls in Concert (2001 Concert Cast)
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Dreamgirls 2001
  • Not the real "DREAM" experience
  • Absolutely brilliant!
  • Amazing!!!!!!
  • One Night Only
Dreamgirls in Concert (2001 Concert Cast)
Henry Krieger , Audra McDonald , Brian Stokes Mitchell , Emily Skinner , and Darius de Haas
Manufacturer: Nonesuch
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Jazz | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Pop | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | R&B | Styles | Music
Movie SoundtracksMovie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Soundtracks | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music
Traditional Vocal PopTraditional Vocal Pop | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music
McDonald, AudraMcDonald, Audra | Divas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Dreamgirls (1982 Original Broadway Cast)
  2. Dreamgirls: Music From The Motion Picture [2-CD Deluxe Edition]
  3. Dreamgirls
  4. Company (2006 Broadway Revival Cast)
  5. Grey Gardens - A New Musical (2006 Original Broadway Cast)

ASIN: B00005Y4P4
Release Date: 2002-02-26

Tracks:

  1. I'm Looking for Something, Baby
  2. Goin' Downtown
  3. Takin' the Long Way Home
  4. Move (You're Steppin on My Heart)
  5. Scene: Fifty bucks says the Dreamettes don't win
  6. Fake Your Way to the Top
  7. Scene: It ain't working, Marty
  8. Cadillac Car
  9. Cadillac Car (On the Road)
  10. Cadillac Car (Recording Studio)
  11. Scene: I don't believe they can do that
  12. Steppin' to the Bad Side
  13. Scene: I'm working on a long shot
  14. Party, Party
  15. I Want You, Baby
  16. Scene: I'm a woman now
  17. Family
  18. Scene: What are you doing to that girl?
  19. Dreamgirls
  20. Press Conference
  21. Heavy
  22. Walkin' Down the Strip/Scene: Las Vegas
  23. It's All Over
  24. And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going

Tracks:

  1. Opening Act II: Dreams Medley
  2. Scene: Effie White is the best singer you're gonna find
  3. I Am Changing
  4. Vogue Sequence
  5. When I First Saw You
  6. Ain't No Party
  7. I Meant You No Harm
  8. The Rap
  9. I Miss You, Old Friend
  10. One Night Only
  11. One Night Only (Disco Version)
  12. I'm Somebody
  13. Hard to Say Good-bye
  14. Dreamgirls (Reprise)

Amazon.com

A Chorus Line may be better known, but Dreamgirls was a towering achievement for director Michael Bennett. Loosely based on the Supremes' story, the 1982 musical told a typical show-biz tale of fame, backbiting, and survival. As is often the case for one-night only events, the cast in this concert version (recorded in New York on September 24, 2001) is led by an eye-popping assortment of Broadway powerhouses: Lillias White (The Life), Audra McDonald (Ragtime, Marie Christine), and Heather Headley (Ragtime). McDonald reveals a previously undisclosed comic streak, while Headley confirms her status as a rising star. Reprising the role of Effie Melody White (created by Jennifer Holliday), White belts the classic "And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going." But the beauty of Dreamgirls is that it's so packed with catchy, Motown-influenced R&B numbers that each lead can sink her teeth into some prime material and get a turn in the spotlight. This double-CD set really makes you wish you'd been there when the show was recorded: you can hear the crowd going berserk at times, and the temptation is strong to do the same thing in the comfort of your living room. --Elisabeth Vincentelli

Customer Reviews:

1 out of 5 stars Dreamgirls 2001.......2007-06-27

This was the worst reproduction of Dreamgirls that I ever heard. I was so disappointed the CD went into the garbage. This is one CD that I would not sell to the public because I expect so much and get so little.

4 out of 5 stars Not the real "DREAM" experience.......2007-04-04


Forget about the film sountrack. Get this CD set. And it's far better than the original cast recording which goes lacking. More songs and more everything that makes a live performance just what it is. Live (compared to film where anything can be done to enhance a performance!) -- the energy, the excitement and the performances make this a rare treat for anyone wanting to share in the real DREAM experience.

Isn't a full Broadway revival long over due. But wait: I've heard rumors that a rvial may be "in the works. I certainly hope so. Maybe this time it will receive the Tony award it deserved in the first place.

5 out of 5 stars Absolutely brilliant!.......2007-01-28

There is atleast 5 new songs on this album that were not in the movie! These girls kill it I mean they are just amazing singers, and this all live! This is needed for any Dreamgirls fanatic like me! You are gonna love it! Enjoy! love live laugh :)

5 out of 5 stars Amazing!!!!!!.......2006-12-04

As a theatre lover, this recording is amazing. I actually prefer this recording to the OBC. Sheryl Lee Ralph is okay, but can't touch Audra's Deena. The first time I heard Ms. White's "And I Am Telling You..", goosbumps all over my body. The only weak cast member in my opinon is Heather Headly. Vocally, she just isn't there. Too much Aida, not enough Dreamgirls. But all in all, a great live recording of a great show.

5 out of 5 stars One Night Only .......2006-07-19

I was lucky enough to attend this One Night Only concert performance of Dreamgirls and it was a night I will never forget!! The cast was brilliant and the cd is as good if not better than the Broadway cast recording because it is the entire show not just the songs. Bravo to everyone involved !!!
The Ultimate Movie Music Collection
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Relive you movie experiences
The Ultimate Movie Music Collection
Erich Kunzel
Manufacturer: Telarc
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
CompilationsCompilations | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Pop | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music
Orchestral PopOrchestral Pop | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music
Star WarsStar Wars | Soundtracks | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Soundtracks | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. The Incredible Film Music Box
  2. Hollywood's Greatest Hits, Vol. 2
  3. Paramount 90th Anniversary Collection: Scores
  4. Simply the Best Movie Themes
  5. Hollywood's Greatest Hits, Vol. 1

ASIN: B000BFH26Y
Release Date: 2005-10-25

Tracks:

  1. The Imperial March: The Empire Strikes Back
  2. Main Theme: Jurassic Park
  3. Main Title: Shakespeare In Love
  4. Themes: Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon
  5. Main Title: The Last Of The Mohicans
  6. Theme: The Godfather
  7. Unchained Melody: Ghost
  8. Theme: Goldfinger
  9. We're Losing Him: Somewhere In Time
  10. Space Camp
  11. Opening And Closing Titles: Henry V
  12. Theme: The Thorn Birds
  13. Suite: Moonwalker
  14. The Time Of Your Life: A Bugs Life

Tracks:

  1. Batman Theme: Batman
  2. Bicycle Chase: E.T. The Extra Terrestrial
  3. Suite: Independance Day
  4. Love Theme: Romeo & Juliet
  5. Theme: Back To The Future
  6. End Credits: Contact
  7. Theme: Breakfast At Tiffany's
  8. Main Theme: Star Trek
  9. May It Be And Themes: Lord Of The Rings: The Fellowship Ring
  10. Love Theme: Cousins
  11. Sean's Theme: Minority Report
  12. I Will Wait From You: The Umbrellas Of Cherbourg
  13. Theme: Rocky
  14. The Sand Volcano: The Mummy
  15. The Raider's March: Raiders Of The Lost Ark

Tracks:

  1. Theme: Mission Impossible
  2. Casablanca Suite
  3. Book Of Days: Far And Away
  4. Love Theme: Superman
  5. Tara's Theme: Gone With The Wind
  6. Don't Mess With: Z
  7. Main Title: The Mask Of Zorro
  8. Finale: Victor / Victoria
  9. Carol Ann's Theme: Poltergeist
  10. Love Theme: Star Wars: Episode ll: Attack Of The Clones
  11. Main Theme: Willow
  12. Main Title: Star Trek ll: The Wrath Of Kahn
  13. MAin Theme: On Golden Pond
  14. Theme: A Summer Place
  15. Theme: Chariots Of Fire

Tracks:

  1. Iceberg!
  2. Back To Titanic
  3. Main Themes: Hook
  4. Theme: Pink Panther
  5. Lara's: Doctor Zhivago
  6. Theme: Love Story
  7. Right Stuff
  8. Theme: Jaws
  9. When You Believe: The Prince Of Egypt
  10. Smile: Modern Times
  11. The Apollo 13 Mission
  12. Re-Entry And Splashdown: Apollo 13
  13. Main Title: Beetlejuice
  14. War: Pearl Harbor
  15. Cavatina: The Deer Hunter
  16. Throne Room And End Title: Star Wars: Episode lV: A New Hope

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Relive you movie experiences.......2006-01-24

This collection of movie themes, will allow you to relive the chilling experiences from practically all (4 CDs)of the great movies. Great movies would not be great without great music. The Cincinnati Pop with Eric Kunzel are unbeatable recordings. Every minute is more beautiful and inspiring to the next. If you love Pops music, this is the begin all, end all.
For the Stars
Average customer rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  • Loved this CD
  • I LOVE this CD!
  • Costello Partners with Hubris and Yields Variable Results
  • what's so funny about peace, love, and understanding?
  • No life in her (pop) art
For the Stars
Anne Sofie von Otter , and Elvis Costello
Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
Singer-SongwritersSinger-Songwriters | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
Singer-SongwritersSinger-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music
ClassicClassic | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music
Traditional PopTraditional Pop | Oldies | Pop | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
Traditional Vocal PopTraditional Vocal Pop | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music
Deutsche Grammophon: MusicDeutsche Grammophon: Music | Specialty Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Anne Sofie von Otter - Speak Low ~ Songs by Kurt Weill / Gardiner
  2. North
  3. The Juliet Letters
  4. When I Was Cruel
  5. Painted from Memory

ASIN: B00005A46I
Release Date: 2001-04-10

Tracks:

  1. No Wonder
  2. Baby Plays Around
  3. Go Leave
  4. Rope
  5. Don't Talk (Put Your Head On My Shoulder)
  6. Broken Bicycles / Junk
  7. The Other Woman
  8. Like An Angel Passing Through My Room
  9. Green Song
  10. April After All
  11. You Still Believe In Me
  12. I Want To Vanish
  13. For No One
  14. Shamed Into Love
  15. Just A Curio
  16. This House Is Empty Now
  17. Take It With Me
  18. For The Stars

Amazon.com

At a time when popular music has been micro-marketed to the far side of ad nauseam, Declan MacManus, a.k.a. Elvis Costello, has traded on his reputation as the brightest songwriter to emerge from the new wave era to foster any number of delightful, cross-genre/generation musical surprises, including soundtracks and collaborations with the Brodsky Quartet, Paul McCartney, jazz artist Roy Nathanson, and songwriting legend Burt Bacharach. The latest fruit of that generous, insatiably curious artistic spirit is this elegant partnership with Swedish mezzo-soprano Anne-Sofie von Otter. Though an admitted pop novice, Otter couldn't have picked a better confederate than Costello, an artist whose taste in songs has seldom been tainted by trend.

Together, they weave material from disparate sources--including a slate of compelling Costello material, a pair of Brian Wilson's evocative "Pet Sounds" confessionals, a Tom Waits song from Francis Ford Coppola's One from the Heart (oddly, though effectively, coupled in medley with McCartney's "Junk"), an Abba song, and the Beatles' "For No One"--into a musical tapestry of stately power and grace. Costello sparingly uses his voice as seasoning throughout, though his masterful touch is everywhere. Otter's novice pop singing reveals an easy knack for jazz phrasing that should tempt further explorations and a warmth that belies the rigidity that's so often a byproduct of classical training. Most gratifying of all, this album ultimately achieves what's become one of the loftiest plateaus in Pop music: common ground. --Jerry McCulley

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Loved this CD .......2006-06-13

Who would pair Costello and an opera singer?? Elvis, and somehow it works. I really love the tone and moodiness of it and lyrics that talk about love and life, failure and success. It's soulful, in a contemplative way, music for those tucked away, rainy days .

5 out of 5 stars I LOVE this CD!.......2005-09-01

Finally, an opera singer who knows how to channel her Classical training into a sound that is, as one critic aptly described it, "what pop singers would sound like if they could actually sing"! Although Elvis Costello does not join Ms. von Otter very often in the vocals, when he does they harmonize beautifully. With great melodies (some beautiful, some catchy) and sensitive (but not sappy) lyrics, this album makes a fine addition to any CD collection.

3 out of 5 stars Costello Partners with Hubris and Yields Variable Results.......2005-05-08

Having just heard Elvis Costello's masterful collaboration with Burt Bacharach, "Painted from Memory", for the first time this past month, I had high hopes for this equally unusual partnership with mezzo-soprano Anne Sofie von Otter released in 2001. This time, however, Costello acts as arranger and producer, and it is von Otter who is front and center on vocals. She is among the most revered of singers on the opera and recital stages, and she has impressed me in the past, in particular, with her Dejanira in the 2002 Marc Minkowski-led performance of Handel's "Hercules", among many other roles she has embodied. Here she is called upon to be a pop chanteuse, and while the beauty of her voice is inarguable in any setting, her ability to interpret the diverse lyrics in these songs is far more debatable. This is where a Marianne Faithfull, a Blossom Dearie or even a Joni Mitchell could capture more of the underlying feeling with a fraction of the vocal power von Otter can provide but with twice the nuance. There is a rather sterile sameness to the performances here, somewhat jazz-inflected in a cocktail lounge manner at times and at other times, rather morose and dirge-like.

Take, for example, her rendition of Brian Wilson's "Don't Ask (Put Your Head on My Shoulder)" from the legendary "Pet Sounds" album. It moves so glacially that it actually extricates the romantic subtext almost surgically. The same can be said for Jessie Mae Robinson's "The Other Woman", which has at least Magnus Persson's vibraphone to provide relief from the tedium. She's better on the other "Pet Sounds" classic, "You Still Believe in Me", where she cannily soars with the chorus, though Costello damages it by adding some odd, muffled rapping in the background. Ironically, it is on the Costello compositions where the recording most noticeably flails. The opener "No Wonder" starts as a "Greensleeves"-like madrigal and then turns into Beatlesque pop; "Baby Plays Around" seems to suffer from exhaustion by all parties; the two Fleshquartet collaborations, "Rope" and "Just a Curio", sound somewhat like extraterrestrial hymns done in a series of minor keys; and the closing title track, "For the Stars" includes peppy, Beach Boys-sounding harmonies which escape her grasp. In fact, "Just a Curio" would have been a more appropriate title for this entire recording.

On the other hand, the Gallic flavor of Benny Andersson's accordion effectively informs her rendition of Tom Waits' "Broken Bicycles", which melds perfectly with Costello's vocal on Paul McCartney's "Junk". Speaking of Andersson, a fellow Scandinavian, von Otter admirably covers a piano-led ABBA ballad, "Like an Angel Passing Through My Room". She also displays a meticulously casual bounce on Lennon-McCartney's "For No One", though it stops rather abruptly. Von Otter acquits herself surprisingly well on the jazzy "Shamed into Love", written by another unlikely duo, Costello and Rubén Blades, and performed as almost a smokier variation of Bacharach's "Alfie". And speaking of Bacharach, she does a nice turn on the lovely "This House Is Empty Now" from the 1998 Bacharach-Costello disc. Costello and von Otter are masters of their craft, but I think some of the collaborations reflect simply irreconcilable differences. While Costello seems to have an insatiable desire to expand musically, his hubris here appears to constrain the often preternatural vocal skill von Otter displays on the opera and recital stage. Consequently, what we have here is a nice album, a generous one with eighteen tracks, that doesn't seem to capitalize on either contributor's talent fully.

1 out of 5 stars what's so funny about peace, love, and understanding?.......2004-04-22

Nothing's funny about this boring duo. I picked this up FREE at my library and it didn't take me too many tracks to see why it was donated. The musical arrangements are hapless and dull, and her voice is Dion without the Vegas power finale. Come to think of it, the lyrics remind me of Dion; they are as saccharine as anything Dion has ever sung. I wasted a blank CD on this limp, sleepy pairing of two otherwise good artists.

1 out of 5 stars No life in her (pop) art.......2004-03-15

I am a big fan of both artists and wanted very much for this combination to work. It avoids the traditional trap of "oversinging" the pop material. But a few years after its release, in these American Idol era, is that really such a terror for pop music any more? So-called oversinging seems pretty popular these days!

The big problem is that von Otter has not found a way to communicate any emotion in this scaled-down form of singing. All her classical techniques are stripped away, and there's nothing to replace them. Sure, her voice is gorgeous, but it sounds exactly the same no matter what the lyrical content. The songs could have been made up of nonsense syllables for all the emotional life she communicates.

Deeply disappointing - but someone, somewhere, will figure out how to bring classically trained singers to the wonderful pop song repertoire that has been composed over the past 50 years. Elvis may very well be the person to do it, but not on this album.
Andrew Lloyd Webber: Now & Forever
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • I waited for this for five years
  • Excellent collection but BIG PUBLISHING MISTAKE!
  • ONE OF LLOYD WEBBER'S BEST COMPILATIONS, DESPITE A FEW FLAWS
  • SUCH MAGICAL MUSIC OF THE NIGHT!
  • A Must Have for Sir Andrew fans
Andrew Lloyd Webber: Now & Forever
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Decca Broadway
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

RequiemsRequiems | Forms & Genres | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
NoelsNoels | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
RequiemsRequiems | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music
Contemporary MusicalsContemporary Musicals | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Soundtracks | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music
General ChristmasGeneral Christmas | Holiday | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music
Broadway & MusicalsBroadway & Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Box Sets | Stores | Music
The Decca Records StoreThe Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music
General ChristmasGeneral Christmas | Holiday Music | Special Features | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Gold: The Definitive Hits Collection
  2. Andrew Lloyd Webber - The Royal Albert Hall Celebration
  3. The Very Best Of Andrew Lloyd Webber: The Broadway Collection
  4. Evita (Original London Cast)
  5. Andrew Lloyd Webber - Masterpiece (Collector's Edition) (Bonus CD)

ASIN: B00005R5UJ
Release Date: 2001-11-20

Tracks:

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

Tracks:

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

Tracks:

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

Tracks:

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

Tracks:

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

Album Description

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

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

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

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

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

Customer Reviews:

3 out of 5 stars I waited for this for five years.......2006-06-30

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5 out of 5 stars Excellent collection but BIG PUBLISHING MISTAKE! .......2006-01-10

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

4 out of 5 stars ONE OF LLOYD WEBBER'S BEST COMPILATIONS, DESPITE A FEW FLAWS.......2005-03-21

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

5 out of 5 stars SUCH MAGICAL MUSIC OF THE NIGHT!.......2003-01-19

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

4 out of 5 stars A Must Have for Sir Andrew fans.......2002-05-21

This five-CD collection of Andrew Lloyd Webber's career is fantastic. It leaves virtually no stone unturned. I have no doubt that diehard Webber fans will love this, especially for the 5th disc entitled "From the Vaults." This disc alone is worth the price as it contains tunes never before heard by the typical fan. Who knew Elvis did a Lloyd Webber tune?!? I didn't! Also the tune "Benedictine" which the composer wrote for his most recent marriage is not only pretty, but it has the same medley as "The Lady's Paying" from "Sunset Blvd." which I found highly enjoyable. Another great track is the composer himself singing a cut song from "Cats" entitled "Pollicle Dogs and Jellicle Cats" which has the same tune as "Jellicle Songs for Jellicle Cats," but to hear Sir Andrew sing is a blast...he sounds a lot like Al "Year of the Cat" Stewart.
The cuts from the musicals are great but are likely owned by ALW fans as they are on the original cast albums. And I'm glad that there were tunes included from the composers most recent efforts which have yet to make it beyond London (Whistle Down the Wind, Beautiful Game).
My only complaint is the inclusion of way too many tracks by Sarah Brightman. She must've received a great divorce settlement that included having tunes on any ALW collection until the end of time!! Her interpretations of some of the tunes were limp and uninspired. I would've much rather heard casts from around the world rather than yet another song by this disdainful soprano! How about Colm Wilkinson's version of "Music of the Night" from the original Canadian cast of "Phantom"? Or Michael Crawford's version of "Unexpected Song"? What? No Betty Buckley from "Sunset Blvd."? And of course there are songs you KNOW are going to be on the collection before you even listen to it as they have been on EVERY ALW collection for the past decade or so.
A great collection but too much Sarah Brightman!
Life Upon the Wicked Stage
Average customer rating: Not rated
    Life Upon the Wicked Stage
    Carole Cook , Jerome Kern , Grant Geissman , David Stout [trombone] , Dan Fornero , John Fumo , Brock Peters , James Anderson , Jane Lanier , Lauren Kennedy , Linda Michele , Marissa Jaret Winokur , Melissa Errico , Reece Holland , Robert Morse , Rod McKuen , Roger Rees , Ronnie Franklin , and Steve Orich
    Manufacturer: Lml Music
    ProductGroup: Music
    Binding: Audio CD

    GeneralGeneral | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Soundtracks | Styles | Music
    Traditional VocalistsTraditional Vocalists | Compilations | Pop | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music
    Broadway & VocalistsBroadway & Vocalists | Indie Music | Stores | Music
    Similar Items:
    1. Tap Your Troubles Away - The Words and Music of Jerry Herman (Historic All-Star Tribute)
    2. Kurt Weill: The Centennial
    3. ABC (Adler, Bock, Coleman)
    4. Over The Rainbow: The Music Of Harold Arlen (1995 Benefit Concert Cast)
    5. Dream: The Lyrics and Music of Johnny Mercer

    ASIN: B0000658H9
    Release Date: 2002-05-07

    Tracks:

    1. The Song Is You - Jamie Anderson
    2. How'd You like To Spoon With Me? - Jane Lanier
    3. The Land Where The Good Songs Go - Pamela Myers
    4. All The Things You Are - Alan Campbell
    5. The Folks Who Live On The Hill - Lee Lessack
    6. She Didn't Say Yes - Marissa Jaret Winokur
    7. Pick Yourself Up - Street Sounds
    8. You Couldn't Be Cuter - Marsha Kramer
    9. Shimmy With Me - Lea Thompson
    10. They All Look Alike - Bruce Vilanch
    11. There It Is Again - David Holladay
    12. Remind Me - Ron Rifkin
    13. In Love In Vain - Melissa Errico
    14. Make Believe - Linda Michele
    15. Ol' Man River - Brock Peters
    16. You Are Love - Dale Kristien
    17. I Won't Dance - Bonnie Franklin

    Tracks:

    1. The Last Time I Saw Paris - Charles Busch
    2. Long Ago (And Far Away) - Pam Dawber
    3. They Didn't Believe Me - Pat Marshall
    4. Look For The Silver Lining - Rod McKuen
    5. A Fine Romance - Jane Carr
    6. Sure Thing - Sally Kellerman
    7. Don't Ever Leave Me/Why Was I Born - Joely Fisher
    8. I'm Old Fashioned - Robert Morse
    9. Yesterdays - Joan Ryan
    10. Smoke Gets In Your Eyes - Dorian Harewood
    11. In The Heart Of The Dark - Dale Kristien
    12. Can't Help Lovin' Dat Man - Valarie Pettiford
    13. The Way You Look Tonight - Hugh Panaro
    14. Life On The Wicked Stage - Carole Cook
    15. I've Told Every Little Star - Carole Cook
    16. Till The Clouds Roll By - The Company
    The String Quartet Tribute to the Beach Boys' Pet Sounds
    Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    • Great sounding accompaniment piece to Pet Sounds
    The String Quartet Tribute to the Beach Boys' Pet Sounds

    Manufacturer: Vitamin Records
    ProductGroup: Music
    Binding: Audio CD

    GeneralGeneral | Rock | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Compilations | Rock | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music
    TributesTributes | Pop | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
    Similar Items:
    1. Pickin' on the Beach Boys: A Bluegrass Tribute
    2. A Tribute to Brian Wilson
    3. On The Beach
    4. Good Vibrations: 40th Anniversary Edition EP
    5. What I Really Want for Christmas

    ASIN: B0007GP6R4
    Release Date: 2005-02-15

    Tracks:

    1. Wouldn't It Be Nice
    2. You Still Believe In Me
    3. That's Not Me
    4. Don't Talk (Put Your Head On My Shoulder)
    5. I'm Waiting For The Day
    6. Let's Go Away For Awhile
    7. Sloop John B
    8. God Only Knows
    9. I Know There's An Answer
    10. Here Today
    11. I Just Wasn't Made For These Times
    12. Pet Sounds
    13. Caroline No
    14. Hang On To Your Ego

    Product Description

    1. Wouldn't It Be Nice
    2. You Still Believe In Me
    3. That's Not Me
    4. Don't Talk (Put Your Head On My Shoulder)
    5. I'm Waiting For The Day
    6. Let's Go Away For Awhile
    7. Sloop John B
    8. God Only Knows
    9. I Know There's An Answer
    10. Here Today
    11. I Just Wasn't Made For These Times
    12. Pet Sounds
    13. Caroline No
    14. Hang On To Your Ego

    Format: CD

    Customer Reviews:

    5 out of 5 stars Great sounding accompaniment piece to Pet Sounds.......2005-07-17

    This album is great to listen to if you, like me, have listened to Pet Sounds millions of times and want a new variation on it. The Angry String Quartet does a great job recreating this amazing work of art, and brings to light the orchestral genius of Brian Wilson's musical and vocal arrangements. The Quartet extend most of the songs, and it is a bit awkward getting used to at first ( having listened to the original songs so many times), but in the end, it is a pleasant change.


    "The String Quartet Tribute to the Beach Boys' Pet Sounds" is an interesting, and ultimately, satisfying listen. I'd recommend this to anyone who wants to hear Pet Sounds in a different light or would like to understand why so many people have found Brian Wilson's music to be utter genius...and just about anyone else.
    Musicals - The Gold Collection
    Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    • "56 Show-Stoppers from the Last Century ~ Paul Bateman"
    Musicals - The Gold Collection
    Helen Hobson , Dave Willetts , and Lesley Garrett
    Manufacturer: Silva America
    ProductGroup: Music
    Binding: Audio CD

    All Works by BernsteinAll Works by Bernstein | Bernstein, Leonard | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
    All Works by GershwinAll Works by Gershwin | Gershwin, George | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
    All Works by PorterAll Works by Porter | Porter, Cole | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
    Modern & 20th CenturyModern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
    EnglishEnglish | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music
    Traditional Vocal PopTraditional Vocal Pop | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Soundtracks | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music
    ASIN: B0001JXPB6
    Release Date: 2004-04-06

    Tracks:

    1. West Side Story 'America' - Helen Hobson & Crouch End Festival Chorus
    2. Annie 'Tomorrow' - Helen Hobson
    3. Annie Get Your Gun 'Anything You Can Do' - Jason Howard
    4. Annie Get Your Gun 'The Girl That I Marry/My Defences Are Down' - Jason Howard
    5. Aspects Of Love 'Love Changes Everything' - Chris Corcoran
    6. Anything Goes 'Anything Goes' - Helen Hobson
    7. Cabaret 'Cabaret' - Helen Hobson
    8. La Cage Aux Folles 'I Am What I Am' - Dave Willetts
    9. Carmen Jones 'Dat's Love' - Lesley Garrett
    10. Cats 'Memory' - Lesley Garrett
    11. Cats 'Macavity: The Mystery Cat' - Deborah Steel
    12. Carousel 'Soliloquoy' - Jason Howard
    13. Carousel 'If I Loved You' - Paul Bateman
    14. Carousel 'You'll Never Walk Alone' - Jason Howard

    Tracks:

    1. Chess 'I Know Him So Well' - Meredith Braun
    2. Evita 'Don't Cry For Me Argentina' - Sharon Campbell & Crouch End Festival Chorus
    3. Evita 'Another Suitcase In Another Hall' - Sharon Campbell & Crouch End Festival Chorus
    4. Evita 'High Flying Adored' - Meredith Braun
    5. The Fantastiks 'Try To Remember' - John Langley & Crouch End Festival Chorus
    6. Fiddler On The Roof 'If I Were A Rich Man' - John Langley
    7. Gigi 'Gigi' - Keith Ferreira
    8. Guys And Dolls 'Luck Be A Lady' - Dave Willetts
    9. Jesus Christ Superstar 'Superstar' - Christopher Howard
    10. Jesus Christ Superstar 'I Don't Know How To Love Him' - Sharon Campbell
    11. Jesus Christ Superstar 'Everything's Alright' - Sharon Campbell
    12. Joseph And His Amazing Technicolor Dream-Coat 'Close Every Door' - Crouch End Festival Chorus
    13. Kismet 'And This Is My Beloved' - Lesley Garrett
    14. Kismet 'Stranger In Paradise' - Jason Howard

    Tracks:

    1. Kiss Me Kate 'Where Is The Life That Late I Led?' - Jason Howard
    2. A Little Night Music 'Send In The Clowns' - Helen Hobson
    3. Les Miserables 'Bring Him Home' - Dave Willetts
    4. Man Of La Mancha 'The Impossible Dream' - John Langley
    5. Oklahoma 'Oh What A Beautiful Morning' - Jason Howard
    6. Oklahoma 'The Surrey With The Fringe On Top' - Jason Howard
    7. Oklahoma 'Oklahoma' - Jason Howard
    8. Phantom Of The Opera 'Phantom Of The Opera' - Lesley Garrett
    9. Phantom Of The Opera 'Music Of The Night' - Dave Willetts
    10. Phantom Of The Opera 'All I Ask Of You' - Lesley Garrett
    11. Porgy & Bess 'Summertime' - Lesley Garrett
    12. Seven Brides For Seven Brothers 'Bless Your Beautiful Hide' - Jason Howard
    13. Showboat 'Ol' Man River' - Jason Howard
    14. Showboat 'Make Believe' - Jason Howard

    Tracks:

    1. The Sound Of Music 'The Sound Of Music' - Helen Hobson
    2. The Sound Of Music 'Climb Ev'ry Mountain' - Tania Williams & Crouch End Festival Chorus
    3. The Sound Of Music 'Edelweiss' - John Langley
    4. South Pacific 'Some Enchanted Evening' - John Langley
    5. South Pacific 'Younger Than Springtime' - David Shannon
    6. Starlight Express 'Starlight Express' - Keith Burns
    7. Sunset Boulevard 'Sunset Boulevard' - Gerard Casey
    8. Sunset Boulevard 'With One Look' - Mary Carewe
    9. Sunset Boulevard 'As If We Never Said Goodbye' - Mary Carewe
    10. Tell Me On Sunday 'Tell Me On Sunday' - Sharon Campbell
    11. West Side Story 'Maria' - David Shannon
    12. West Side Story 'Tonight' (The Balcony Scene) - Meredith Braun
    13. West Side Story 'Somewhere' - Meredith Braun
    14. There's No Business Like Show Business & Annie Get Your Gun 'Theres No Business Like Showbusiness' - Helen Hobson & Crouch End Festival Chorus

    Customer Reviews:

    4 out of 5 stars "56 Show-Stoppers from the Last Century ~ Paul Bateman".......2004-04-16

    Some of the best musicals from the last century appear on this 4-CD compilation "Musicals:The Gold Collection", featuring many stars of the London Stage with Paul Bateman (conductor), The City of Prague Philharmonic Orchestra, The Philharmonia, The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and the world renown Crouch End Festival Chorus ~ sharing the spotlight, blending voice and music within the boundaries of great compositions from sold out musical shows from the past ~ all songs presented on this collection have been performed by a diverse set of artists ~ share the beauty of simplicity that exists in the music of each performance.

    Here's just a sampling with "Annie", Annie Get Your Gun", "Anything Goes", "Aspects of Love", "Cabaret", "Carmen Jones", "Carousel", "Cats", "Chess", "Evita", "The Fantastics", "Fiddler on the Roof", "Gigi", "Guys and Dolls", "Jesus Christ Superstar", "Joseph and His Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat", "Kismet", "Kiss Me Kate", "La Cage Aux Folles", "Les Miserables", "A Little Night Music", "Man of La Mancha", "Oklahoma", "Phantom of the Opera", "Porgy & Bess", "Seven Brides For Seven Brothers", "Showboat", "The Sound of Music", "South Pacific", "Starlight Express", "Sunset Boulevard", "Tell Me On Sunday", "There's No Business Like Show Business", "West Side Story" ~ each cue is just the icing on the cake presented in this one of a kind event.

    Let's take a look at the stars of the London Stage ~ Meredith Braun, Keith Burns, Sharon Campbell, Mary Carewe, Gerard Casey, Chris Corcoran, Keith Ferreira, Lesley Garrett (always a favorite in everyones collection), Helen Hobson, Michele Hooper, Christopher Howard, Jason Howard, Ria Jones, John Langley, David Shannon, Deorah Steel, Jill Washington, Dave Willetts, Tania Williams ~ so much talent under one banner, perfection is the only description that comes to mind. Paul Bateman has come up with a instrumental masterpiece, with emotional peaks and valleys that we've experienced over decades in the tumultuous world of musicals in the theatre.

    Silva America, James Fitzpatrick, Reynold da Silva and David Stoner have paid homage to this genre ~ brought to the forefront in one universal voice the magnitude and influence for all it's listeners ~ powerful and personal touch of each track makes you feel the melody is still ringing in your ears, that's what the composer hoped for and it works ~ this musical collection is a keeper ~ gotta love it!

    Total Time: 4-CD-Set ~ Silva America 3605 ~ (4/06/2004)
    Puccini: Tosca
    Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    • One of the better Chandos recordings
    • Uninvolving performance
    • A Bit Too British for Me
    • Awesome find
    • Jane Eaglen is the perfect Tosca!
    Puccini: Tosca

    Manufacturer: Chandos
    ProductGroup: Music
    Binding: Audio CD

    All Works by PucciniAll Works by Puccini | Puccini, Giacomo | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
    General ModernGeneral Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
    Eaglen, JaneEaglen, Jane | ( E ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
    Puccini, GiacomoPuccini, Giacomo | M to P | Featured Composers, A-Z | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
    Romantic (c.1820-1910)Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
    ItalianItalian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
    OperettasOperettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
    Eaglen, JaneEaglen, Jane | Divas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
    Similar Items:
    1. Puccini - La bohème / Haymon · O'Neill · Opie · McLaughlin · A. Miles · Dazeley · Shore · PO · Parry
    2. Turandot (Chandos Opera in English)
    3. Tchaikovsky - Eugene Onegin / Te Kanawa · Hampson · Rosenshein · Gedda · Sir Charles Mackerras [in English]
    4. Mozart - Don Giovanni / Garry Magee · Cullagh · Banks · Plazas · Shore · Tierny · PO · David Parry

    ASIN: B000000A6Q
    Release Date: 1996-05-21

    Tracks:

    1. TOSCA: Act I: Opening-Ah! Here In Safety
    2. TOSCA: Act I: I Don't Believe It...
    3. TOSCA: Act I: Give Me My Palette!
    4. TOSCA: Act I: Mario! Mario! Mario!
    5. TOSCA: Act I: Our Little House In The Country
    6. TOSCA: Act I: What Eyes In All The Wide World
    7. TOSCA: Act I: All The Choir In Here At Once!
    8. TOSCA: Act I: You Make The Church A Fairground
    9. TOSCA: Act I: Mario?! Mario?!
    10. TOSCA: Act I: Three Agents, Go In A Carriage...

    Tracks:

    1. TOSCA: Act II: Tosca, My Falcon
    2. TOSCA: Act II: Richer Far Is The Flavour
    3. TOSCA: Act II: It Seemed Wise To Arrest Him...
    4. TOSCA: Act II: Now You And I Can Talk
    5. TOSCA: Act II: Enough. Tosca, Your Answer
    6. TOSCA: Act II: Floria!
    7. TOSCA: Act II: How Much?
    8. TOSCA: Act II: Life Has Taught Me Singing And Loving
    9. TOSCA: Act II: Which Route Have You Chosen?
    10. TOSCA: Act III: No Words Can Cheer Me
    11. TOSCA: Act III: All The Stars Shone In Heaven
    12. TOSCA: Act III: Oh, Hands Of Mercy
    13. TOSCA: Act III: What A Time They Are Taking!

    Amazon.com

    Do we really need another Tosca in English? Forget the question, because if you think we do, you'll want this set regardless of its qualities or flaws. But if you're skeptical, you should give this a listen anyway. Jane Eaglen's Tosca is wonderfully sung (and surprisingly well enunciated). While she certainly doesn't move us the way Callas does, she's far better than Dame Kiri (but then again, so are most of my great-aunts). Eaglen won't vulgarize by pushing dramatic moments into her chest voice, although sometimes you wish that she would. Dennis O'Neill is such a dedicated artist that I wish I liked his voice better. He offers a nuanced Cavaradossi that turns somewhat unpleasant at forte above the staff, but one could mistake that for drama. Gregory Yurisich's Scarpia is nicely snarling--just about every nasty word he sings can be understood. Conductor David Parry seems a bit out of his element--he leads a sleepy performance, even if it is a well-played sleepy performance. This is for Eaglen fans and those who prefer "All the stars shone in heaven" to "E lucevan le stelle." And you know who you are. --Robert Levine

    Customer Reviews:

    4 out of 5 stars One of the better Chandos recordings.......2005-10-17

    Again opera in English. Most of it has left me cold, but not because of uninvolved singers or orchestra or chorus, just because the diction is usually simply horrible. This recording, however, is much better. It could be because the published translation is used (what is known as a "singable translation" rather than a literal translation). Because of this fact, vowels that are much too hard to sing on higher notes in English are not sung. Rather, words are used so that vowels more workable to high notes are sung.

    As for the singers themselves, unlike some think, I think Jane Eaglen is wonderful. I really enjoy how Chandos captures the voices of their singers. They do such a masterful job, and we are able to really enjoy the sound, and it is a more natural sound. Eaglen now has the incredible sound one hears in the theatre, filled with warmth, and with just the correct amount of ring to it. That hollow empty sound one gets in her Sony recordings is gone (and we are all the more thankful for that, but then, I am not that impressed with Sony and their recording balance anyway). As to her interpretation, I find it stunning. No, she is not Maria Callas, and I am glad she is not trying to be. I love Callas in the role (in both her studio recordings and in a few live performances I have -- though in life, her voice is much smaller than it appears in studio recordings). Yet, I love to hear what other singers bring to this role when they are not trying to copy Callas. Eaglen is very vital in the role. We are hearing an "opera singer" and she is very believable. Her jealousy is very touching in the first act, not raving as some portray it (and which is actually overdoing it), but poignant. We feel a woman, a woman who is very lacking in confidence, not in her talent, but in her ability to capture the heart of the man she loves. Tosca's jealousy is not because her lover has strayed or been unfaithful in any way, it is because she fears she cannot keep him interested in herself. That aspect of her character is seldom captured, yet, Eaglen does capture that vulnerability. Scarpia uses that vulnerability to plant seeds of ever-growing doubt in her (so she leads him to Cavaradossi).

    Her desperate plea to God in Visi d'arte (sung in English, obviously) is tender and subdued, as it is supposed to be. It is a prayer, not something for Scarpia to hear. Her heart-break at being "so poorly treated after such devotion" is deeply felt.

    Sadly, her Cavaradossi is not so well served. O'Neil is a good tenor, and he must have had a super voice at one time. He certainly feels the drama of the music. He is just past his prime and the voice wobbles annoyingly too often. I find that takes a great deal from this performance. It often abscures what he is trying to do (and which he often does achieve), and I had to repeatedly listen to parts of the recording to discover what it was he was offering me. He is a great interpretor of music and of drama, he just is not as steady in production as he once was.

    The singer who sang Scarpia didn't do a thing for me. He sang serviceably enough, but he just lacked that "je ne sais quoi" that Scarpia so desperately needs. He is a super evil man, but he has style, he has pinache, he has class. He is the type of man who could torture someone to death while prunning in front of the mirrow, calmly assessing his appearance. He is a clever manipulating man, and he knows how to get what he wants (and he manipulates Tosca as much as he can, until she can take no more and kills him).

    All that seemed lacking to me. The man was evil, yes, he was powerful and dangerous, yes, but the subtleties of the character seemed to be totally missing. However, this said, I did still enjoy the performance and I could understand his words.

    The rest of the characters just fade away to me, and not just in this recording, in most of them. They are there to move things forward, to announce some event, and that is about all. The shepherd boy didn't impress me at all, but since I really care less about that part of the actual drama, it really didn't both me that much.

    Now to the conducting. I really love the conductors that conduct the works Chandos records in English. I really find their skills in working the orchestra amazing. I see where they are going with a work and they hold it together incredibly well. The details are all there, but nothing is forced to stand out too much. They know how to support the singers, and they do it extremely well, like they really like singers (something one is forced to wonder about many conductors).

    The choral work in this opera is simply the finale of Act one, and the off stage cantata of Act 2. The Te Deum of act one is superb. Truly one must admit that English choirs are incredibly good and very accurate in what they do. However, what really impressed me was the off stage cantata. Usually it can sound like a lot of yells and squeeks (with Tosca sort of yelling above it). In this recording it is actually extremely musical and Eaglen's voice rides along with the chorus, not the usual fighting against it. This little touch is wonderful.

    The real drama does not really develop until the second act, but then, that is when the real drama does develop. All things before that are nothing more than "prelude" to the real meat of the opera.

    The end of the opera was great, but could have been a bit more intense for me. I really think this is the other place (the murder of Scarpia being the other) where this "shabby little shocker" is meant to really shock us. I just wasn't shocked quite enough.

    I rated it only a four star because of the small flaws that sort of ruined some parts of the whole, but have to say, I truly enjoyed this recording (and that for me is extremely rare when listening to opera in English; the other Chandos recording that really blows my mind is Mozarts Idomeneo; this recording is incredible!). I would recommend it to anyone, even those who think opera must be sung only in the original language. This shows that sometimes it can be sung very effectively in the language of the people.

    2 out of 5 stars Uninvolving performance.......2003-10-23

    This is a mediocre recording. The title role, in particular, is poorly serviced by Jane Eaglen, whose performance is dramatically uninvoling and vocally forgettable. There're much better versions of this popular opera in the catalogues.

    3 out of 5 stars A Bit Too British for Me.......2002-09-27

    I'm intrigued by opera in English because when done well, the immediacy of the words really hit me with more impact than in the original language. But most operas seem to work better in the vernacular they were written in. Eaglen sings an excellent Tosca. She's more at home in the role than I expected. But I really had to give this recording * for Eaglen. It's well recorded, conducted effectively but the general effect seems to lack power. The other soloists do an adequate job. This is not recording I would go back to very often and even sold off my copy.

    5 out of 5 stars Awesome find.......2000-10-29

    Being a fan of Jane Eaglen, I must admit that I was swept away with her in this recording. This is probably the best performance one can find of her, at this point. Part of a series of Operas sung in English, Tosca is a good recording. All were understandble most of the time, but when it comes to opera, I'm finding it's not whether or not one can understand what one is singing, but how well they sing it. Did not expect it to be as well done. Many people would turn their nose to the language change. Who care! Ms. Eaglen is marvelous here as she is in other venures. Particularly in the second half. Highly recommended!!

    4 out of 5 stars Jane Eaglen is the perfect Tosca!.......2000-04-28

    Vocally Eaglen is the perfect Tosca. She matches beatiful tone with dramatic power. O'Neil is ok, the role seems to be to dramatic for him, and his voice often wobbles under strain. The Scarpia is not impressive either, but is better than the O'Neil. I hope that one day soon I will be able to buy a Tosca sung in Italian, which features Eaglen, with a comperable Scarpia, and Mario Cavaradossi. Until then, this recording will do nicely. I also much prefer the new cover featuring a great picture of the diva, to the old which feautered a painting of a young woman (presumably Tosca.)
    Dennis O'Neill Sings More Favourite Tenor Arias
    Average customer rating: Not rated
      Dennis O'Neill Sings More Favourite Tenor Arias

      Manufacturer: Chandos
      ProductGroup: Music
      Binding: Audio CD

      All Works by DonizettiAll Works by Donizetti | Donizetti, Gaetano | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
      All Works by MascagniAll Works by Mascagni | Mascagni, Pietro | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
      All Works by PonchielliAll Works by Ponchielli | Ponchielli, Amilcare | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
      All Works by PucciniAll Works by Puccini | Puccini, Giacomo | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
      All Works by VerdiAll Works by Verdi | Verdi, Giuseppe | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
      All Works by RossiniAll Works by Rossini | Rossini, Gioacchino | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
      London Philharmonic OrchestraLondon Philharmonic Orchestra | ( L ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | Arias | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
      Romantic (c.1820-1910)Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
      ItalianItalian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
      ASIN: B0001JSS6S
      Release Date: 2004-06-29

      Tracks:

      1. Go On Stage - Put On Your Costume
      2. Heaven And Sea!
      3. I Pray That I Be Chosen - Goddess Aida
      4. When Holy Church Has Blessed Our Love - That Fierce Inferno, Her Cruel Sentence
      5. Foresto, My Soul Belongs To You
      6. Here Unobserved In This Chapel - Angel Of Love Divine
      7. One Day, Gazing At the Splendour Of Heav'n's Blue Distance
      8. Just Like A Day In May Time
      9. Ah! Would That God Had Given Him A Thousand Lives! - Yes, I Swear By Skies Of Marble
      10. Do Not Fear Me
      11. Give Me My Palette! - How Strange A Thing Is Beauty
      12. Let Her Believe That I Have Gained My Freedom
      13. My Friends, Don't Go Away - Neightbours, With A Glass I Meet You - Diana Montague
      14. Mamma, Mamma, This New Wine Really Is Powerful - Diana Montague
      15. I Lost The Will To Action
      16. Your Tiny Hand Is Frozen

      Rap Music:

      1. Imagenit [Explicit Lyrics]
      2. It's My Time [Explicit Lyrics]
      3. J. Beez Wit the Remedy [Explicit Lyrics]
      4. Jankytown [Explicit Lyrics]
      5. King George Presents: Playas & Hustlas [Explicit Lyrics]
      6. Last of Dying Breed [Explicit Lyrics]
      7. Legal
      8. Lethal Overdose
      9. Life of a Criminal [Explicit Lyrics]
      10. Liquid Swords

      Rap Music

      rap music

      Recommended Music:

      The Very Best of

      Delibes: Sylvia

      First Time! The Count Meets the Duke

      Music: Mozart: Deutsche Tänze, Lieder, Arien [Import]

      Circles

      Droppar Av Solregn [Import]

      Do Turtles Need Girdles?

      Complete Early Recordings (1927-1935)

      Country Christmas (Karaoke)

      Con La Conciencia Tranquila [Import]

      Flaxen

      Don't Worry [CD-single] [Import]

      Computer Teknology [CD-single] [Import]

      What Now

      Headphones