Out of Nothing [Enhanced]

Amazon.com
Out of Nothing, the band's fourth album, is the best they have ever made. The McNamara brothers have buckled down to some serious songwriting (aided by Coldplay's Chris Martin on first single "Gravity") to produce a selection of songs that can all lay claim to the title "Classic".

Opening with the monumental "Ashes" it is clear from the off that this is not some huge stylistic leap. Instead Embrace have consolidated all they are good at (epic, heart-warming anthems) and finally made the album they have always promised. "Gravity" is exactly what you'd expect, a Coldplay tune as played by Embrace, but where as Chris Martin and the boys are often stark and fidgety Embrace cover the track in a lushness that makes you swoon. "Someday" has them coming across like the younger brothers of Spiritualised complete with a finale featuring a full-on gospel choir, "Wish 'Em All Away" is harmonica-soaked loveliness with a chorus that touches the heavens, and "Spell It Out" is a string-laden monster that has 'festival closer' written all over it.

The album ends as magnificently as it begins with a triplet of songs that takes the breath away. The gentle "A Glorious Day", atmospheric "Near Life" and magnificent title track prove just how far Embrace have come since the days of out-of-tune criticisms and gags about being Oasis' little brothers. Out of Nothing is a truly exceptional album that suggests that, far from being over, the journey for Embrace has only just begun. --Amazon.co.uk

Product Description
Out Of Nothing is produced by Youth (best known for his work with The Verve, Killing Joke and The Orb) features the band's signature souring rock balladry, complete with emotionally charged lyrics and dramatic production. During the recording of Out Of Nothing, Youth pushed the band to unbeknownst levels of musicianship, which resulted in enormous sales and mass acclaim.

Out of Nothing,Embrace (UK),Lava,Alternative Pop/Rock,British Trad Rock,Britpop,Pop,Post-Grunge,Rock,Rock/Pop

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Out of Nothing [Enhanced]

Average customer rating: 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 Ballets | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Bernstein | Bernstein, Leonard | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Gershwin | Gershwin, George | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Porter | Porter, Cole | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Weill | Weill, Kurt | ( W ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Mancini | Mancini, Henry | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Modern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music English | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Movie Scores | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music Classical Instrumental Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Musicals | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Best of Broadway - The American Musical (PBS Series) Broadway: The American Musical Broadway: The American Musical Broadway - The American Musical (PBS Series) 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:

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.

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.

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.

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

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

Average customer rating: I stand accused of awe Easily as good as any of their albums..maybe even better Beautifully Constructed The Best Modest Mouse Album This cd is great!!!!!!!!

Building Nothing Out Of Something Modest Mouse Manufacturer: Up. ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Lo-Fi | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Indie Rock | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Emo | Hardcore & Punk | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Noise | Rock | Alternative Styles | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Alternative Rock | Indie Music | Stores | Music General | Rock | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Moon & Antarctica Everywhere and His Nasty Parlour Tricks Good News For People Who Love Bad News We Were Dead Before the Ship Even Sank Perfect From Now On ASIN: B00003A9E2 Release Date: 2000-01-18

Tracks:

1. Never Ending Math Equation
2. Interstate 8
3. Broke
4. Medication
5. Workin' On Leavin' The Livin'
6. All Nite Diner
7. Baby Blue Sedan
8. A Life Of Artic Sounds
9. Sleepwalkin'
10. Grey Ice Water
11. Whenever You Breathe Out, I Breathe In (Positive Negative)
12. Other People's Lives

Amazon.com

Loneliness, boredom, and random observations have been at the heart of Modest Mouse's skewered musical universe through all their releases. The Issaquah, Washington-born trio has also been able to spin very-long-playing albums that catered to the group's core obsessions, with both its full-length Up Records releases--This Is a Long Drive for Someone with Nothing to Think About and The Lonesome Crowded West clocking in at more than 70 minutes in length. So it's refreshing to hear this supremely odd rock band at its most economical. Building Nothing Out of Something catches singles, compilation tunes, and more--none of which were ever intended to be sequenced as an album. As a narrative whole, the singles take on a visionary quality, discerning worldly, bent revelations in the everyday world. The swervy vocals that Isaac Brock has made his trademark sound as languidly distressed as ever, stricken by marvel and ghastly awakenings in equal measures. The music serves Brock well, sounding wobbly and sturdy at once, as if it barely teeters on chaos's brink at a variety of mostly midtempo paces. "Never Ending Math Equation," "A Life of Arctic Sounds," and "Other People's Lives" play the most stoutly, with the tonally clean guitars breaking across all the angular phrasings and rhythms Modest Mouse thrive on while Brock's voice goes from warpy drollery to exasperated wail in the face of his task as a singer and writer. --Andrew Bartlett

Customer Reviews:

I stand accused of awe.......2007-01-21

How many great albums can these Mice release? Here's yet another masterful achievement in the field of indie rock.

Easily as good as any of their albums..maybe even better.......2006-12-26

This album is a compilation of Modest Mouse non-album tracks from various points throughout the 90's. Even though it's a compilation, it is easily stands up against any of their proper albums.

There are some GREAT songs to be found here. "Interstate 8" and "Broke" are two of the band's best songs, period, and I am astounded that they were not included on one of the band's albums. Seriously...I was speechless when I first heard these two songs, sequenced on after another, no less. You could play me a record of those two songs looped together for seven hours, and I would never get tired of them.

I don't mean to do anybody a disservice, but I honestly can't think of many words that would be very helpful in describing these songs. Eloquent, emotional songwriting and imaginitive yet focused musicianship...pretty much everything you would expect from a collection of Modest Mouse songs. If you're a fan, you probably already own this (if not, get it...you're missing out on some of their best songs!). If you're just getting into Modest Mouse, this is as good a place as any to start.

The only weak point that I can think of is "All Nite Diner", which seems as though it were conceieved to be a bit of a throwaway track, anyway. The rest of the album does not dissapoint. Classic after classic. I would consider this an essential Modest Mouse purchase. If somebody put a gun to my head and told me to pick one Modest Mouse release over them all (although I don't know why a person would be so specific with such a random topic with a gun in their hand), I would choose this one.

Beautifully Constructed.......2006-05-18

Issac Brock may be one of the smartest lyricists of all time. It has more to do with a greater understanding where and how you fit in the grand scheme of things than anything else. The lyrics are awe inspiring, and not just for one song, but seemingly verse after verse. Modest Mouse shed its simple songwritng from the older albums and became an indie rock band for the thinking man.

First of all, if you have heard "Good News for People Who Love Bad News" and have not heard anything else by Modest Mouse, forget everything you thought you knew about Modest Mouse. Building Nothing Out of Something is a dissonent, pure, and instightful album, unlike their watered-down new album, Good News"

And yes, i said album, even though it is a collection of previously unreleased and old material, there is more toghetherness and solidarity than a lot of other "albums" out there. What makes Modest Mouse, Modest Mouse is the evolution of each song. For instance medication goes from a lugubrious, down tempo mumble into a light, bouncing progression and back to the first tempo, this time with lyrics kick you in the chest. I know it sounds dumb when i explain it but it has to be something you hear to fully understand. Neverending Math equation is a tremedously effective opener and Workin on leaving the living is one of the most serene, beautiful songs on the album, albeit repetitive. Other excellent tracks are Baby Blue sedan sleep walking and Grey ice water. My favorite however, is the closer, Other peoples lives. If you dont hear any other MM song in your entire life, make sure this one is it. All i can say is, oh my god. Although MM is one of the best bands out there, in my opinion, they arent very accesible but if you like MM you REALLY like them. You'll just have to listen and find out where you stand.

The Best Modest Mouse Album.......2006-04-17

I know it's not an official album but I could care less. To me, every song on this album is amazing. I would say it's a greatest hits album if I didn't know better.

I just want to say this to anyone discovering MM: Go out and buy every Built to Spill album. I found out about them years after I bought The Lonesome Crowded West and was so disappointed because I missed out on them. Trust me, if you love MM you will become infatuated with Built to Spill.

This cd is great!!!!!!!!.......2005-10-03

Modest Mouse has the best lyrics that I have ever heard and this cd has the best by far. Its cold and dark setting in the music makes you want to go to Alaska and then hate it. It is a great cd to drive down the road and have it really loud. Grey Ice Water is the best because I can picture them in Alaska or somewhere cold and it makes them feel lonely and depressed.

Average customer rating: Fun Show, Average Score Cleverness personified Fantastic Jazz Musical That's FUN!!! Great Jazz-Oriented Score I love it!

City of Angels (1990 Original Broadway Cast) Cy Coleman , David Zippel , James Naughton , and Randy Graff Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music Contemporary Musicals | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music 4-for-3 Broadway & Vocalists | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Classical | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Pop | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Soundtracks | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Musicals | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: City of Angels Seesaw (1973 Original Broadway Cast) On The Twentieth Century (1978 Original Broadway Cast) Grand Hotel: The Musical - Broadway Cast Recording The Drowsy Chaperone (2006 Original Broadway Cast) ASIN: B00000272K Release Date: 1990-02-09

Tracks:

1. Prologue-Theme From City Of Angels
2. Double Talk
3. What You Don't Know About Women
4. You Gotta Look Out For Yourself
5. The Buddy System
6. With Every Breath I Take
7. The Tennis Song
8. Ev'rybody's Gotta Be Somewhere
9. Lost And Found
10. All You Have To Do Is Wait
11. You're Nothing Without Me
12. Stay With Me
13. You Can Always Count On Me
14. Alaura's Theme
15. It Needs Work
16. L.A. Blues
17. With Every Breath I Take-Duet
18. Funny
19. I'm Nothing Without You
20. Epilogue-Theme From City Of Angels
21. Double Talk Walk

Amazon.com

Cy Coleman and David Zippel's City of Angels is a seductive depiction of 1940s Los Angeles, capturing swinging jazz, torchy ballads, witty lyrics, and even a Manhattan Transfer-like Greek chorus (arranged by ManTran guru Yaron Gershovsky). James Naughton and Gregg Edelman star as Stone and Stine, respectively a tough Raymond Chandleresque PI and the writer who dreams up his adventures. Randy Graff plays Stone's long-suffering secretary and Dee Hoty the requisite femme fatale. Loads of atmosphere and tasty songs such as "What You Don't Know About Women," "With Every Breath I Take," "You're Nothing Without Me," and "You Can Always Count on Me" make City of Angels a modern classic. It won 1990 Tony Awards for Best Musical, Leading Actor (Naughton), Featured Actress (Graff), Best Book (Larry Gelbart), and Best Original Score. --David Horiuchi

Customer Reviews:

Fun Show, Average Score.......2007-02-21

Fun show, ingenuos concept, so-so score, with one exception. The ballad With Every Breath I Take is brilliant. One of Coleman's best pieces.

Cleverness personified.......2006-10-16

A duet between an author and the character he created, each claiming "you're nothing without me," is just one example of how sharp, witty and clever show is, with an unusual score, jazzy and bluesy and very 1940s, and some of the best lyrics I know.

Fantastic Jazz Musical That's FUN!!!.......2006-04-14

City of Angels is an incredibly fun, classy, and jazzy musical that delivers. Stellar vocal performances are provided by the entire cast, particularly the female end. The fact that Randy Graff was the only female from this cast nominated at the Tony Awards that year floors me. Kay McClelland and Rachel York deserved nods for their powerful solos, With Every Breath I Take and Lost Found, alone. These two songs are also the type of sultry, jazz solos that one would expect in the 40's, which is why the show works. The music is completely period with when the show takes place, and that's why I love it. The best tracks are:

3) What You Don't Know About Women
6) With Every Breath I Take (destined to be a classic)
9) Lost and Found (wonderful solo)
10) All You Have To Do Is Wait (FUN! FUN! FUN SONG!!! Hilarious as well)
11) You're Nothing Without Me
13) You Can Always Count On Me (Randy Graff's Tony!)

Great Jazz-Oriented Score.......2005-06-25

1990 Tony winner for Best Musical, "City Of Angels" contains a great score, filled with jazz-oriented melodies & torch songs. Not all the songs are terrific, but most of the score lends itself to repeat listenings. Best tracks include:

Double Talk
What You Don't Know About Women
With Every Breath I Take [beautiful song!]
Lost And Found
You're Nothing Without Me [the show's hit]
You Can Always Count On Me
Funny

Great cast ... great buy!

I love it!.......2005-02-22

This is one of my favorite soundtracks ever! Since I'm going to be working on music for the show, I'm happy that this is the case. It has been in my CD player for a few weeks now, and there's enough variety for it not to get old. But having read through the script makes the lyrics infinitely wittier. Musicals are supposed to rely partially on the lyrics and partially on the script. This show does that perfectly. Without the script, the lyrics are (apparently) lacking. But without the lyrics, the script is missing something. When you put the two pieces together, however, it's really easy to see why this show won a Tony.

Average customer rating: 17:41 Press Play, and sit on your porch... Lets try SIX stars!!! Very Nice one of the first.....

And Then Nothing Turned Itself Inside-Out Yo La Tengo Manufacturer: Matador Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | American Alternative | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Indie Rock | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Noise | Rock | Alternative Styles | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Alternative Rock | Indie Music | Stores | Music Indie & Lo Fi | Alternative Rock | Indie Music | Stores | Music American Alternative | Alternative Rock | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Fakebook The Crane Wife We Were Dead Before the Ship Even Sank Perfect From Now On Dreamt for Light Years in the Belly of a Mountain ASIN: B00004C4OA Release Date: 2003-12-02

Tracks:

1. Everyday
2. Our Way To Fall
3. Saturday
4. Let's Save Tony Orlando's House
5. Last Days Of Disco
6. The Crying Of Lot G
7. You Can Have It All
8. Tears Are In Your Eyes
9. Cherry Chapstick
10. From Black To Blue
11. Madeline
12. Tired Hippo
13. Night Falls On Hoboken

Amazon.com's Best of 2000

Yo La Tengo's most consistently brilliant record is also their quietest, as husband and wife Ira Kaplan and Georgia Hubley turn the volume down while exploring decidedly grown-up relationship themes. It's definitely not the shoe-gazer-tinged barrage of guitars they've supplied in the past, but the silences here speak louder than an amplified guitar ever could. --Matthew Cooke

Amazon.com

Yo La Tengo's 11th album is a relentlessly satisfying, slyly low-key affair with shimmery organs, muted soft-brush drumming, loping bass lines, casually strummed guitars, and interlocking rounds of hushed vocal harmonies. Yes, this is Yo La Tengo we're talking about, a band that formerly rivaled the Dream Syndicate in feedback squall--tastes of which do appear on the uptempo "Cherry Chapstick." Nothing is the most the trio--Ira Kaplan, Georgia Hubley, and James McNew--have explored their interests in atmosphere, drone, and minimalist song structure since a handful of '90s club dates under the name Sleeping Pill. So, the consistently subdued tone is not without precedent, and any YLT fan knows that they have steadily evolved and reshaped their sound since forming in 1984. But what is remarkable about Nothing (aside from its erudite genre-mixing and USDA-choice melodies) is that it's consistent; this is the group's most coherent, thematically linked CD since 1990's Fakebook. As further cement, it has never been easier to decipher what husband and wife Ira and Georgia are singing about: their love for each other, from flirtatious first encounters to the arduous task of surviving skirmishes. Subtle and surprising--the singing alone is to die for--the record squirms away from whichever genre trap one attempts to fashion for it. Just call it indie rock for grownups, turn it up real loud, and get lost. --Mike McGonigal

Album Description

Full title - And Then Nothing Turned Itself Inside-Out. Tenth album from American indie act. Digipak. 2000 release. Matador Records.

Customer Reviews:

17:41.......2007-06-20

This is my first (and to date only) Yo La Tengo album. I like it quite a bit. It does have that "indie rock" feel which I dislike intensely, but here it works in a very mellow, gentle, tranquil mood. All the songs here are very meditative, except for Cherry Chapstick. Cherry is one of my favorite songs here, reminding me of The Velvet Underground's I Heard Her Call My Name and Sister Ray and their noise quotient. Madeline has a really nice, Duane Eddy type of guitar intro, but the final song, Night Falls on Hoboken, is a masterpiece. I bought the album because of it (I'm a sucker for a long song, especially one clocking in at 17:41), and the song didn't disappoint. It's really a remarakble song that reminds me of some of Metheny's work (especially Beyond the Missouri Sky). The other songs on the album are pleasant enough, even though some of their titles are a little too Gen X for me (The Crying of Lot G and Let's Save Tony Orlando's House (a Simpsons reference) for example). But overall, it's worth shoveling out the $$$ for. The title is nice, too.

Press Play, and sit on your porch..........2006-11-30

Employing a 'less is more' approach, Yo La Tengo, on this album, have managed to create what is actually a very dense and re-listenable record that succeeds in setting a mood, and delivering a entirely satisfying listening experience.

'Everyday' is a perfect opening track, and a ready rival to any other I've heard. It sneaks in with a gentle beat and warm organ drone that sounds like the buzzing of a mosquito catcher. A murky walking bass line supports beautiful hushed vocals and random creepy noises. And the opening line confesses `I want summer sad songs...behind me'.

It sets the scene for a perfect 'porch at dusk' album. A hot, humid day. A comfortable chair, an interesting view, a cool drink, and a perfect end to the day. The tracks for the most part are gentle, warm, affectionate numbers that bend around beautiful melodies, idiosyncratic drumming and gorgeous drone/noise elements.

Many seem to prefer Yo La Tengo's more aggressive, feedback drenched material, and though that stuff has its merits (and I myself am quite a fan), it feels like the band are very at home on this album. That comfort gives the album a real personal feel. The intimacy is only further emphasised by the personal lyrics, mostly exploring Ira and Georgia's marriage. The album never seems sentimental though, held up and kept vital by the fact that the lyrics deal just as much with the problems that a relationships brings, as the benefits its provides. It is this candid, realistic approach that gives the album its confidence. It is never pretentious and never fantastical. It's an honest and settled collection of gorgeously played numbers.

`Cherry Chapstick' provides the only kick in the pants with a Sonic Youth styled rocker reminiscent of the bands earlier material. `Let's Save Tony Orlando's House' is a slightly more upbeat track, smacking of Stereolab but always retaining Yo La Tengo's strong sense of rhythm, melody and downright cool. `You Can Have It All' also lifts the pace a little, propelling itself via some bouncy `ba ba' backing vocals.

But it's the more textured and restrained numbers that give the real long term satisfaction and lift the record out of `good indie rock/pop', and plant it deeply in its own comfortable world. `Last Days Of Disco' is truly heart warming in its account of awkward love. Immediately following is an equally compelling encounter of a marriage going through tough times. Ira talks about how they fight but pleads with his wife `All that I ask is you stop and remember. It isn't always this way'.

The number of perfectly emoted lyrical moments and gentle melodic flourishes are too numerous to mention. When the closing `Night Falls On Hoboken' cruises out of its initial verse/chorus/verse/chorus, and into the extended and utterly sublime acoustic psychedelica that fills the album's final 10 minutes or so, you'll find yourself completely calm, and cosy. Anyone who finds fault in the way this final track slowly floats through 10 minutes of blissful but restrained instrumental perfection is clearly lost on the subtlety of this masterful album from the start. The closing track brings with it a perfect period for reflection.

You know those albums where, when the closing track finishes, you end up sitting there in silence for a couple a minutes just admiring and appreciating what has just gone before? Well `Night Falls' provides that moment in song. So sit back in that comfy chair, wipe that sweat from your brow, listen the `zap' of another mosquito biting the dust, take a sip of your ice cold beverage, watch the world go by, and let Yo La Tengo tell you a little secret or two.

Lets try SIX stars!!!.......2006-10-02

Dear world,
What can I say to a 91 person review @ 4.75 stars, that hasn't already been said. Super sonic, very well done. Pulls out any mood like a dog sled in the snows of antiquity.
FJE

Very Nice.......2006-03-10

this album is so zen. i first fell in love with it while falling asleep listening to it. i could practically feel my heart beating with the repetitious rhythms of the songs. the intriguing whispers sent warm chills through me. this album is perfect for relaxing and looking at everything in retrospect.

one of the first............2005-07-09

Honestly, this album was on of the first I Listened to by Yo La Tengo. Without a doubt they have proven themselves too be a excellent band, up there with my favorites. If you like good music, especially downtempo, blissed out guitars and warm vocals, then this album is for you. Definetly listen to "Night Falls on Hoboken". As I delve further into the Yo La Tengo records I find that this record, one of the first I heard has brought me an understanding of this band, and their music, that I would have possibly not received so quickly.

Average customer rating: Great UK powerpop band that have not broken into the US, yet Let me "Spell It Out" for you Great Buy Wow - A top 5 CD of 2005 Best album I've heard all year.

Out of Nothing Embrace (UK) Manufacturer: Lava ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Britpop | British Alternative | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Post Grunge | American Alternative | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Tourist If You've Never Been Drawn from Memory Vehicles & Animals This New Day ASIN: B0007XT8D0 Release Date: 2005-06-14

Tracks:

1. Ashes
2. Gravity
3. Someday
4. Looking As You Are
5. Wish 'Em All Away
6. Keeping
7. Spell It Out
8. A Glorious Day
9. Near Life
10. Out Of Nothing

Amazon.com

Out of Nothing, the band's fourth album, is the best they have ever made. The McNamara brothers have buckled down to some serious songwriting (aided by Coldplay's Chris Martin on first single "Gravity") to produce a selection of songs that can all lay claim to the title "Classic".

Opening with the monumental "Ashes" it is clear from the off that this is not some huge stylistic leap. Instead Embrace have consolidated all they are good at (epic, heart-warming anthems) and finally made the album they have always promised. "Gravity" is exactly what you'd expect, a Coldplay tune as played by Embrace, but where as Chris Martin and the boys are often stark and fidgety Embrace cover the track in a lushness that makes you swoon. "Someday" has them coming across like the younger brothers of Spiritualised complete with a finale featuring a full-on gospel choir, "Wish 'Em All Away" is harmonica-soaked loveliness with a chorus that touches the heavens, and "Spell It Out" is a string-laden monster that has 'festival closer' written all over it.

The album ends as magnificently as it begins with a triplet of songs that takes the breath away. The gentle "A Glorious Day", atmospheric "Near Life" and magnificent title track prove just how far Embrace have come since the days of out-of-tune criticisms and gags about being Oasis' little brothers. Out of Nothing is a truly exceptional album that suggests that, far from being over, the journey for Embrace has only just begun. --Amazon.co.uk

Album Description

Out Of Nothing is produced by Youth (best known for his work with The Verve, Killing Joke and The Orb) features the band's signature souring rock balladry, complete with emotionally charged lyrics and dramatic production. During the recording of Out Of Nothing, Youth pushed the band to unbeknownst levels of musicianship, which resulted in enormous sales and mass acclaim.

Customer Reviews:

Great UK powerpop band that have not broken into the US, yet.......2007-01-01

For those new to Embrace, first things first - they do not sound like Coldplay. Personally, I think they are much better, and very underrated in the States. "Out of Nothing" is considered by some to be their best album, and I would agree. Sample these standout tracks:

"Someday"
"Keeping"
"Spell it Out"
"A Glorious Day"

"Gravity" does sound a bit like Coldplay, given that it was written by Chris Martin - but, that's the exception to the rule. Don't be fooled if your local college radio station hasn't been playing this band - they are very good and this is the album to get (even over the newer "This New Day", imo).

Let me "Spell It Out" for you.......2006-04-22

There's a natural tendency to take something unfamiliar and compare it to something familiar. That's what's happening here as Amazon reviewers are comparing Embrace to Coldplay. Perhaps it's unfair to Embrace to liken them to Coldplay because as a band, I'd think Embrace wants to stand on their own merits. However, if you're being so closely measured against the hottest rock and roll band in the world today, is that really a bad thing?

The truth is that on Out of Nothing, Embrace does sound like Coldplay. That doesn't change the fact that this album is an outstanding work. Embrace wrote these accessible, infectious songs themselves, and they perform them with first-rate musicianship and compelling vocal performance.

These guys haven't hit the radio in the States, but when payola runs radio, you're better off looking elsewhere on your own for new artists. The truth is that Embrace is better than most anybody who's new on today's radio. I discovered Out of Nothing on the internet several months ago, purchased the album, and it has been a constant spin in my CD player ever since. Every track on this disk is memorable. Songs move gracefully from the contemplative to the soaring to the driving and powerful. At all times the album is captivating. In my opinion, on Out of Nothing, Embrace measures up to Coldplay in every respect. If you're a fan of grandstand arena rock in the vein of Coldplay and U2, then trust me, you will enjoy this album. It's great!

Great Buy.......2006-03-18

If you like Coldplay or Keane, you will love this band. I have really enjoyed it and have shared it with many of my friends and family.

Wow - A top 5 CD of 2005.......2006-02-14

From the opening anthemic Ashes until the climactic epic Out of Nothing, this is a fantastic ride by an underrated and underappreciated band.

Personal favorites include Glorious Day, Spell it Out and especially Someday.

I have been into this band since 1998 and unfortunately it does not appear that they will ever break in the states. Unfortunate that we have to listen to monontonic drones like John Mayer here.

They have had good albums before but the songs were more up and then down. They brought in crackpot producer Youth (the same man brought us The Verve-Urban Hymns and the excellent Howie Day debut release) and really amped up. The result is a very full and layered sound complete with string arrangements in many songs.

Had a chance to meet them and have drinks with the band while in Denver and you will never meet a more humble group of guys.

If you like Coldplay, The Verve, and early Oasis buy with no worries - it will not disappoint.

Best album I've heard all year........2005-12-28

The band played live at some music festival on cable tv. They sung "A Glorious Day" and I was surprised I've never heard of them. Such a melodic song with great emotional vibe too it. To my surprise, this was just a single great song on an album packed with a few of them. That makes for a great album! While it is true that they do sound like Coldplay/Oasis fused, the music is just more melodic than Coldplay and the lead singer's voice is much better sounding than Oasis' (who I never really took to). I think the album that really compares in quality is the Keane "Hopes and Fears." That's saying a LOT!

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

Andrew Lloyd Webber: Now & Forever Various Artists Manufacturer: Decca Broadway ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Requiems | Forms & Genres | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Noels | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Requiems | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music Contemporary Musicals | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music General Christmas | Holiday | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music Broadway & Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Box Sets | Stores | Music The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music General Christmas | Holiday Music | Special Features | Music Similar Items: Gold: The Definitive Hits Collection Andrew Lloyd Webber - The Royal Albert Hall Celebration The Very Best Of Andrew Lloyd Webber: The Broadway Collection Evita (Original London Cast) 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:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

Average customer rating: Not impressed Inexorable wonder!

Magical Musicals / Kunzel, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra Manufacturer: Telarc ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Elfman, Danny | ( E ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Cincinnati Pops | ( C ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music General | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music Orchestral Pop | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music Movie Scores | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music Similar Items: Ragtime at the Magical Kingdoms The Magical Music of Disney ASIN: B00001QGKF Release Date: 1999-09-28

Tracks:

1. Hercules: Introduction
2. Hercules: The Gospel Truth
3. Hercules: One Last Hope
4. Hercules: I Won't Say
5. Hercules: Zero To Hero
6. Hercules: A Star Is Born
7. Hercules: Go The Distance
8. Aladdin And the King Of Thieves: Party In Agrabah
9. Pocahontas: Just Around The River Bend
10. The Return Of Jafar: You're Only Second Rate
11. The Return Of Jafar: Forget About Love
12. The Return Of Jafar: I'm Looking Out For Me
13. The Return Of Jafar: Nothing In The World
14. Toy Story: You've Got A Friend In Me
15. 101 Dalmations: Cruella De Vil
16. Pocahontas: Colors Of The Wind
17. Oliver And Company: Once Upon A Time In New York City
18. Oliver And Company: Why Should I Worry?
19. The Nightmare Before Christmas: What's This?
20. James And The Giant Peach: Good News
21. Mulan: Orchestral Suite
22. The Hunchback Of Notre Dame: The Bells Of Notre Dame
23. The Hunchback Of Notre Dame: Someday
24. The Hunchback Of Notre Dame: God Help The Outcasts
25. The Hunchback Of Notre Dame: Topsy Turvy
26. The Hunchback Of Notre Dame: Court Of Miracles
27. The Hunchback Of Notre Dame: A Guy Like You
28. The Hunchback Of Notre Dame: Heaven's Light

Customer Reviews:

Not impressed.......2003-11-25

I was not terribly impressed with this CD. Fortunately, I decided to get it from the library to see if it was good before deciding whether or not to buy it.

Although the orchestration of the songs is well done, most of them simply were not meant to be performed by a chorus; and they sound terrible in that form. If you want some of the songs on this CD, I suggest you look at one of Disney's compilation CDs in the Classic Disney Vol. 1-5 series or the actual soundtracks of the movies.

Inexorable wonder!.......2001-06-23

Where to start?! Erich Kunzel and the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra have had a track record for recording some of the most stupendous movie music ever. Magical Musicals is just another example of how audaciously bold, yet beautiful Kunzel and the Cincinnati Pops have taken the original scores, molded them into the same pieces, yet at the same time, creating life of their own in each and every note. If you are looking for ANY soundtrack containing Disney music, this should be the first CD you listen to. There are others out there, and yes, they may sound beautiful and enchanting, but you won't find such a unique and compelling score anywhere else other than this CD. Check it out!!

Average customer rating: Harnoncourt's Bruckner, a viable alternative to Karajan? Depends what you consider good Terrific performance! Unconvincing performance; interesting commentary Harnoncourt roars, but Wildner rages

Bruckner: Symphony No. 9 (with the Documentation of the Finale Fragment) [Hybrid SACD] Manufacturer: RCA ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Romantic | Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Harnoncourt, Nikolaus | ( H ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra | ( V ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Bruckner | Bruckner, Anton | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Similar Items: Bruckner: Symphony No. 5 (with Excerpts from the Rehearsals) [Hybrid SACD] Bruckner: Symphony No. 9 Sibelius: The Symphonies [Hybrid SACD] Bruckner: Symphony 8 Great Orchestral Highlights from The Ring of the Nibelungs / Szell, Cleveland Orchestra (SACD) ASIN: B0000AF1IG Release Date: 2003-10-21

Tracks:

1. Warum Hat Man Eigentlich 100 Jahre Lang Gedacht, E - Nikolaus Harnoncourt
2. Finale. T. 1-278 - Wiener Philharmoniker
3. Gegen Ende Eine Extreme Dissonanz In Den Trompeten - Nikolaus Harnoncourt
4. Nach Dem Ende Der Durchfuhrung Folgt Eine Wilde Fu - Nikolaus Harnoncourt
5. Finale. T. 279-342 - Wiener Philharmoniker
6. Quasi En Schreckensbild Des Todes - Nikolaus Harnoncourt
7. Finale. T. 343-478 - Wiener Philharmoniker
8. Danach Fehlen 16 Takte; Dazu Ist Nichts Zu Erklare - Nikolaus Harnoncourt
9. Finale. T. 479-510 - Lucke/Fehlender Partiturbog - Wiener Philharmoniker
10. Why Did We Think For Over Hundred Years That Nothing... - Nikolaus Harnoncourt
11. WAB 109: Finale. MM. 1-278 - Wiener Philharmoniker
12. Extreme Dissonances In The Trumpets Towards The End - Nikolaus Harnoncourt
13. At The End Of The Development A Wild Fugue Begins - Nikolaus Harnoncourt
14. Finale. MM. 279-342 - Wiener Philharmoniker
15. A Sudden Vision Of Death - Nikolaus Harnoncourt
16. Finale. MM. 343-478 - Wiener Philharmoniker
17. Then There Are Sixteen Bars Missing. We Will Just... - Nikolaus Harnoncourt
18. Finale. MM. 479-510 - Gap/Missing Score Bifolio - Wiener Philharmoniker

Tracks:

1. I. Satz. Feierlich; Misterioso - Wiener Philharmoniker
2. Scherzo. Bewegt; Lebhaft - Trio. Schnell - Scherzo - Wiener Philharmoniker
3. Adagio. Langsam; Feierlich - Wiener Philharmoniker

Customer Reviews:

Harnoncourt's Bruckner, a viable alternative to Karajan?.......2006-03-19

Even Karajan's detractors, except for the most severe, generally concede that he was supreme in Bruckner. His various performances of the Ninth Sym. with the Berlin Phil. are commanding in their huge scope, yet Karajan was also capable of delicate phrasing and had an intuitive grasp of how to organize these gigantic, sprawling movements. No one has quite reached that magistreial level since. To his credit, Harnoncourt doesn't try to. This is, for him, a straightforward performance that relies on some qualities Karajan's Bruckner doesn't possess.

First of all, Harnoncourt has his own instincts about phrasing and organizing the music. Contrary to a reviewer below, he doesn't exploit extreme rubato or sudden tempo changes. There are some quirky moments where the tempo speeds up unexpectedly, but overall, Harnoncourt's timing of 58 min. is dead center among various recordings (as much as I admire Giulini, his 68 min. traversal drags). Harnoncourt favors brash outbursts from the brass, particularly in the Scherzo, my least favorite movement here. But his main intent is to keep Bruckner simple, to impose himself far less than Karajan did with his ultra-control. This Bruckner Ninth is a bit plain at times, but it always breathes.

As to the recorded sound, I have only heard the regular two-channel CD, which is quite clear; the Vienna Pphil. is placed a bit far back on a wide soundstage. I would have liked to hear the solo winds up closer, but that's a quibble. This Bruckner Ninth satisfied me as much as the great accounts by Walter, Klemperer, Giulini, and Boulez. I sitll feel more thrills from Karajan's analog reading from the Sixties, yet Harnoncourt provides a viable alternative in itnerpretation.

In theory it was an exciting notion to provide a free bonus CD containing Harnoncourt's defense of Bruckner's surviving sketches for a fourth movement, never completed. Could it really be that his ocntemporaries were wrong and that Bruckner left us pages of great music begging to be revived? Harnoncourt's talk is highly persuasive, but when the Vienna Phil. actually plays what survives of the finale, it proves as sorely disappointing as its reputation would lead one to believe.

Depends what you consider good.......2004-06-14

Harnoncourt has done some great things for music in his career, but I would not consider this one of them. He achieves an "authentic" performing style from the Vienna Philharmonic with a thin string sound and little or no vibrato. So anyone expecting that sweet Vienna sound will be disappointed. But his conducting does not meet that goal of authenticity, because he varies tempos too much. It draws attention to itself and weakens the cohesiveness of the work as a whole.
There are other versions, many of which are mentioned by the other reviewers below (Giulini, Karajan, et al.), which communicate this great work more simply and effectively. They are also unique and full of interesting details (some attention to detail is good). In light of them, Harnoncourt's view is radically different. Experience has taught me that subtle differences in interpretation give pleasure with repeated listening. Radical differences are OK in a live performance (which this is), but do not stand the test of time. So I do not recommend this as a first recording to have of Bruckner's 9th.

Terrific performance!.......2004-02-25

The symphony recording is damn good, and the extras are very interesting (to hear Harnoncourt speaking German and English, to hear the sketches of the last movement). In my mind, this ranks among the very best -- with Celibidache on EMI, Giulini on DG, Bernstein on DG, and don't forget the second movement of the Jochum on EMI.

Unconvincing performance; interesting commentary.......2004-01-15

First off, I do not like the performance. Harnoncourt's tempi are erratic, particularly in the adagio (where he speeds up the second theme-group to the point he cheapens it).

Secondly, I found his commentary on the 4th movement "chunks" informative. They could easily have been printed in liner notes; instead, we have each of the chunks played twice, followed first by commentary German, then in English.

Thirdly, I see no reason why he should not have recorded the full movement as completed by someone -- by William Carragan (Chandos: Yoav Talmi, Oslo Philharmonic); by Nicola Samale & Giuseppe Mazzuca (Teldec: Inbal, Frankfurt Radio Symphony Orch [with the 5th Symphony]); or by Samale, Mazzuca, and John A Phillips (Camerata: Eichhorn, Linz Bruckner Orch). My first choice is the Carragan: though the Oslo band takes third place among those in these recordings, it is good enough and I find Carragan's completion the most convincing.*

(In January 1984 I went to New York and Carnegie Hall to hear the American Symphony Orchestra perform the premier of the 9th with Carragan's finale. The performance was reviewed the next day in the Times. I immediately wrote Joel Flegel, editor of Fanfare, asking if he knew whether a recording was planned. Joel was dubious and dismissive: "If that college professor really....")

As Carragan noted in his program notes for the ASO "premier," the finale includes the greatest of Bruckner's chorales. That magnificent theme cannot be understood or appreciated by hearing it only in Harnoncourt's chunks. It needs to be heard in context -- and that context can only be provided in a "performing version."

In my opinion, Harnoncourt does a disservice to Bruckner and to listeners by not offering a completed finale. There is certainly room for one in this two-disk set.

* But Carragan will either produce a new version or be superseded as pages not available to him have since been found -- and as still more come to light.

Harnoncourt roars, but Wildner rages.......2004-01-05

As the other reviewers note, this release is essential for anyone interested in this work, for the workshop and documentation of the currently surviving material from the final movement of the symphony. Another important aspect of the release is the use of a new "critical edition" of the initial three movements of Bruckner's 9th, which contains a number of very evident modifications, particularly in orchestration. All the same, it is a concert recording, and, at least in the usual CD format, balances aren't always optimal, trumpets and trombones often too forward, at the expense of the Vienna Phil's strings and (especially) glorious horn section, and timpani are somewhat reticent, especially in the first movement. Harnoncourt also tends to push a bit hard, lacking the natural plasticity in tempo that marks the greatest performances of the first three movements of this work. The impression is one of roaring power, building and receding throughout. Of the 4th movement sketches, Harnoncourt plays exactly what survives, except he omits the 50-odd bars of three coda fragments that have turned up.

Just a few months ago, a recording of the 9th including a reconstruction/completion of the 4th movement, based on the same body of fragments and sketches (including the coda) and prepared by the same editors, was released on Naxos(8.555933-34). The orchestra is the New Philharmonia of Westphalia (Germany) and the conductor is Johannes Wildner. Now, finally, we can hear this work in a form tantalizingly close to the way Bruckner intended. Furthermore, unlike Harnoncourt's Vienna Phil performance, Wildner and his astonishiingly capable Westphalians present what I can only describe as a ferocious performance, with horns and timpani cutting through the fabric of the orchestra at key points, and effectively flexible tempos. It's a performance unlike any I've heard since Furtwangler's furious and terrifying recording made in Berlin during the darkest days of World War II. If you've gotten the Harnoncourt (or even if you haven't), you have to get the Wildner, too.

As an aside, these recordings render superfluous the 1986 Chandos recording by Yoav Talmi and the Oslo Phil of a 4-movement version of Bruckner's 9th. That documented a brave effort by William Carragan to reconstruct a finale. Unfortunately he had barely 3/4 of the body of sketches to work with that we have now, and nothing of the coda at all.

Average customer rating: Highly recommended

Ultimate Movie Album Manufacturer: Polygram Int'l ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by J.S. Bach | Bach, Johann Sebastian | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Barber | Barber, Samuel | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Dukas | Dukas, Paul | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Mascagni | Mascagni, Pietro | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart | Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Puccini | Puccini, Giacomo | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Schifrin | Schifrin, Lalo | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Wagner | Wagner, Richard | ( W ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Kamen | Kamen, Michael | ( K ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Rachmaninov | Rachmaninov, Sergei | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Scherzo | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Variations | Forms & Genres | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Piano | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Modern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music Orchestral Pop | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Movie Scores | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Soundtracks | Imports | Stores | Music Rock | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: Paramount 90th Anniversary Collection: Scores Reel Chill: The Cinematic Chillout Album Reel Love: The Cinematic Romance Album The Incredible Film Music Box The Queen ASIN: B00005QC28 Release Date: 2001-11-20

Tracks:

1. Bridget Jones's Diary: Out Of Reach - Gabrielle
2. Gladiator: Now We Are Free - Gavin Greenaway
3. Moulin Rouge: One Day I'll Fly Away - Nicole Kidman
4. Notting Hill: When You Say Nothing At All - Ronan Keating
5. American Beauty: Dead Already - Thomas Newman
6. Braveheart: Main Theme - For The Love Of A Princess - London Symphony Orchestra
7. Four Weddings And A Funeral: You're The First, The Last, My Everything - Barry White
8. O Brother Where Art Thou: Down To The River To Pray - Alison Krauss
9. Hannibal: Vide Cor Meum - Gavin Greenaway
10. The Shawshank Redemption: Courtyard Theme: Che Soave Zeffiretto (Marriage Of Figaro) - Chor und Orchester der Deutschen Oper Berlin
11. The Thomas Crown Affair: Windmills Of Your Mind - Sting
12. Platoon: Adagio - Neville Marriner
13. Ghost: Unchained Melody - Hollywood Bowl Orchestra
14. Fantasia: The Sorcerer's Apprentice - Montreal Symphony Orchestra
15. The Big Lebowski: Just Dropped In (To See What My Condition Was In) - Kenny Rogers & The First Edition
16. Philadelphia: La Mamma Morta - Monserrat Caballe
17. Snatch: Hernando's Hideaway - The Johnstone Brothers
18. Lock, Stock & Two Smoking Barrels: Eighteen With A Bullet - Lewis Taylor And Carleen Anderson
19. A Room With A View: O Mio Babbino Caro - Sylvia McNair

Tracks:

1. Billy Elliot: Cosmic Dancer - Marc Bolan & T-Rex
2. Captain Corelli's Mandolin: Pelagia's Song - Orchestra
3. Four Weddings And A Funeral: Love Is All Around - Wet Wet Wet
4. Robin Hood Prince Of Thieves: Maid Marian At The Waterfall/Everything I Do - Michael Kamen
5. Dances With Wolves: John Dunbar Theme - John Mauceri
6. American Beauty: Any Other Name - Thomas Newman
7. Gladiator: The Battle (Excerpt) - Gavin Greenaway
8. The Silence Of The Lambs: Goldberg Variations (Aria) - Andrei Gavrilov
9. Notting Hill: She - Elvis Costello
10. Pulp Fiction: Son Of A Preacher Man - Dusty Springfield
11. Mission Impossible: Main Theme - Orchestra
12. Waking Ned: Let The Draw Begin - Orchestra
13. Out Of Africa: Love Theme - John Williams
14. Shine: Piano Concerto No.3 In D Minor, Op.30 - Concertgebouw Orchestra
15. The Godfather Part III: Intermezzo From Cavalleria Rusticana - Pavarotti
16. The Mexican: End Credits Medley - The Hollywood Film Chorale
17. Body Heat: Main Theme - John Williams
18. Apocalypse Now: The Ride Of The Valkyries - Chicago Symphony Orchestra
19. Star Trek: The Final Frontier - Main Theme & March Of The Klingons - John Williams

Album Description

UK compilation featuring a combination of hit songs & theme music from some great soundtracks. Tracks include, Gabrielle 'Out Of Reach' (Bridget Jones Diary), 'Now We Are Free' (Gladiator), 'Dead Already' (American Beauty), Alison Kraus 'Down To The River To Pray' (O Brother Where Art Thou), Ronan Keating 'When You Say Nothing At All' (Notting Hill) & many more. 35 tracks on 2 CDs. 2001.

Customer Reviews:

Highly recommended.......2002-08-20

This pricey UK import CD filled a lot of gaps in my music collection and is an excellent overview of notable music of (mostly) recent films. It's difficult to find consistently listenable soundtrack collections like this, by that I mean free from the obligitory Whitney Houston or Celine Dion embarrassments. Usually rights issues prevent comprehensive compilations like this in the US, too. While I enjoy a lot of soundtrack music, there aren't so many complete soundtracks that I would care to own, some examples of exceptions being Ennio Morricone scores and the About a Boy Soundtrack. While certainly most of these tracks are the actual recordings used in their respective films, I noticed that "La mamma morte" from Philadelphia is not the Maria Callas version. There might be other cases like this, I'm not sure. And "Unchained Melody" from Ghost is an orchestral version, not the pop song (but I consider this a plus). This collection seems to focus on the subtle and quirky, yet melodic music of indie films, with less emphasis on the loud sweeping orchestral scores of major Hollywood hits, but of course there are a few like Gladiator and Braveheart, which are welcome here because like I've said, I probably wouldn't listen to the whole score. I love the two Thomas Newman compositions from American Beauty, and it's good to have some music from films by the Cohen Brothers here. My only complaint would have to be the order of the songs. You would think they would avoid jumping back and forth between pop songs, orchestral scores, and quiet music, but it just seems thrown together by random. I would compare this collection to the excellent "Miramax Films Greatest Hits" but the makers of that album knew to group the two pop/rock songs at the end.

Average customer rating: This album is one to relax to and dream away on Gives smooth a new meaning @}->--- The definition of "Real" music CO-Frontman of CFS breaks free! "Nothing But Love..." is Nothing But Wonderful

Nothing But Love Spoken Here Felton Pilate Manufacturer: Escapi ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Contemporary Blues | Blues | Styles | Music Contemporary R&B | R&B | Styles | Music General | R&B | Styles | Music General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music Similar Items: Are We Cool This Heart of Mine FOR YOUR EARS ONLY Ballads Collection Secrets ASIN: B00094AR9G Release Date: 2006-03-14

Tracks:

1. Nothing But Love Spoken Here
2. Leading Different Lives
3. Devotion
4. In Time
5. Takin' It From The Top
6. Only For You
7. Watch You
8. Keepin' You To Your Promise
9. Yours For Life
10. Be My Baby
11. Always Come Back To You
12. Nothing But Love Spoken Here (U.S. Remix #1)
13. Nothing But Love Spoken Here (Euro Remix)
14. Nothing But Love Spoken Here (U.S. Remix #2)

Customer Reviews:

This album is one to relax to and dream away on.......2006-08-10

Felton Pilate is romancing on his latest album "Nothing But Love Spoken Here". In forteen songs including three rimixes of the title track he reminds us of times when a lady was called a lady and not a bitch.
Felton is member of ConFunkShun the successful soulfunk group and he's also known for writing and producing a song like "U Can't Touch This " for the rap star of the nineties M.C.Hammer. The title song "Nothing But Love Spoken Here" is a powerful and sweet ballad. The USRemix#2 version of this song is very catchy. The synthesizers used in this version as well as the lines from the rapper have done their work. Felton Pilate has filled this album with sugar sweet ballads but he has also recorded a mid-tempo groove on it called "Yours For Life".

A nice and pleasant surprise on "Nothing But Love Spoken Here" is Felton's rendition of the song "Keeping You To Your Promise" which he wrote for the Stylistics who recorded it in 1996. On "Takin'It From The Top" the funk comes in but that's not strange for a funkateer like Pilate.

This album is one to relax to and dream away on. Especially lovers of adult comtemporary music will be pleased with this album and pick out their favourite ballad.

Gives smooth a new meaning @}->---.......2006-04-05

Felton can sang!!!! This is like a whole new r'n'b sound. It's so beyond smooth (as is his voice). I'm a new fan of his and I'm sorry I didn't find him sooner. This is one of the best music purchases I've made for so long now. The best songs here are Be My Baby, Keepin You To Your Promise and Only For You. You must also check out his website. It's pretty cool. If you want nice, relaxing and sexy bedroom music to listen to, then go and buy this now. You won't regret it - he's an amazing singer and the songs are fantastic.

The definition of "Real" music.......2006-03-31

If you love music in the traditional sense that is composed and performed the artist, then this is the cd for you. Felton Pilate's distintive sound is what R&B is all about. In an era of music misguided by it's reliance on music video, it's refreshing to listen to artist such as Felton Pilate, Prince, Ray Parker Jr and Skip Martin make their return felt upon the music scene.

CO-Frontman of CFS breaks free!.......2006-03-24

This is a very nice cd by a very, very talented artist. Mr. Pilate has been a front man of ConFunkShun for thirty years, but he finally hit the mark with this solo cd. His trademark vocals are here, but there is a whole new sound (you won't hear CFS,) and that is a good thing. To me, that just further proves his talent. My favorite song is: "Keeping you to your promise." Way to go Felton!

"Nothing But Love..." is Nothing But Wonderful.......2006-03-21

Felton Pilate, known most recognizably as the front man for the legendary R&B/funk band, Con Funk Shun, and as the Grammy-nominated producer for the top selling rap album of all time, M.C. Hammer's "Please Hammer, Don't Hurt `Em", has struck out on his own with his first solo project, "Nothing But Love Spoken Here." A collection of the purest of love songs, written in heartfelt prose and sung with that signature silky, soulful voice heard on so many CFS classics, such as "Straight From The Heart" and "Baby, I'm Hooked".

"Nothing But Love Spoken Here" offers the kind of romance that is reminiscent of the back-in-the-day slow dance, while it remains fresh and contemporary in its delivery. This is a CD that showcases not only the many facets of relationships, but Felton's considerable songwriting and musical talents. He wrote or co-wrote, sings lead and background, and, with very few exceptions, plays all the instruments on every cut, all but two of which he also produced.

Felton takes us through a range of emotions, with romance as the backdrop, from the title cut, an open invitation to love and lovemaking, to the lushly vocalized "In Time", a plaint of love gone wrong. Originally penned for the Stylistics, "Keepin' You To Your Promise" is a classic ballad with an old school flavor, sung in sweet falsetto. The uptempo, and downright peppy, "Yours For Life" is a bright, happy number; contrasted by "Watch You", with its sensual, smoky pulse and heart-throbbing bass line.

He teams up with Janice-Marie Johnson (A Taste Of Honey) on "Only For You", resulting in a duet wherein the voices blend beautifully and flow like wild honey. "Always Come Back To You" is an earthy, relaxed ballad rendered in stunning simplicity, declarative of a similar sentiment as in "Devotion", another of the melodious and highly listenable cuts on the CD.

With "Nothing But Love Spoken Here", Felton has remained true to his trademark style as one of the premier R&B balladeers of the 70's and 80's, while redefining the boundaries of his musical body of work; evidenced by the three different dance remixes of the title track included on the album. It's a must-have CD; grown folks' music which carries appeal on many levels. Technically it's tight, lyrically prolific, and musically flawless. Add to all of that a voice that lends itself so perfectly to romance, and you've got Nothing But Love.

Rap Music:

1. Painted On
2. Patty Smyth - Greatest Hits - Featuring Scandal
3. Pawn Shoppe Heart
4. Pixel Revolt
5. Quah [Original recording remastered]
6. Red Bird [Import]
7. Relish
8. Rickie Lee Jones
9. Sand & Water
10. Stevie Ray Vaughan & Double Trouble - The Real Deal: Greatest Hits 2

Rap Music

rap music

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Peter Nero's Greatest Hits