Fortress [Enhanced]

Amazon.com
If innovation is the yardstick by which you measure the worth of a rock band, Sister Hazel won't measure up very well. The Gainesville, Florida, septet is the very definition of a mainstream jangle-pop band, and you've heard their brand of music before, most recently from the likes of Hootie & the Blowfish, Edwin McCain, matchbox twenty, and Third Eye Blind. But in terms of sheer tunefulness and the way their melodies and lyrics lodge in your frontal lobe, Sister Hazel's songs on Fortress can make efforts by the other bands seem pale in comparison. The group's third album leads with "Change Your Mind," a feel-good summer song if ever there was one. Simple, straightforward guitar-based tunes like "Shame on Me," "Fortress," "Save Me," and "Champagne High" (featuring Indigo Girl Emily Saliers) ring with high harmonies and hook-filled choruses. If nothing else, Sister Hazel proves that it's not necessary to reinvent the wheel every time a band puts out a record. --Daniel Durchholz

Fortress,Sister Hazel,Universal,Adult Alternative Pop/Rock,American Trad Rock,Pop,Post-Grunge,Rock,Rock/Pop

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Fortress [Enhanced]

Average customer rating:

Five Roses Miracle Fortress Manufacturer: Secret City Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Indie Rock | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Armchair Apocrypha You're My Lover Now Our Love to Admire Sky Blue Sky The Reminder ASIN: B000P46QFE Release Date: 2007-05-22

Tracks:

1. Whirrs
2. Have You Seen In Your Dreams
3. Next Train
4. Maybe Lately
5. Beach Baby
6. Hold Your Secrets To Your Heart
7. Little Trees
8. Poetaster
9. Five Roses
10. Blasphemy
11. Fortoune
12. This Thing About You

Album Description

Miracle Fortress is the brainchild of Graham Van Pelt, a Montreal-based multi-instrumentalist and vocalist who in this incarnation builds wall of sound pop songs in the tradition of Brian Wilson and Brian Eno. Originally from Stratford, Ontario, Graham is also a member of Montreal's Think About Life (Alien8 Recordings). He began to record as Miracle Fortress after co-founding the multi-functional art space/venue/studio space Friendship Cove with local artist Jack Dylan in Montreal's Griffintown in late 2005. A 5 song EP, Watery Grave, led to a collaboration with Secret City Records in 2006 to record a full length LP. Graham spent a larger part of the year building into the Friendship Cove studio and recording the Miracle Fortress debut, taking time out to perform as a solo act opening for bands like Love is All, Vic Chestnut, and locals Sunset Rubdown and Islands. Five Roses was completed in January 2007 and is an ambitious and engaging record of pop songs that echo My Bloody Valentine and the Beach Boys alike. It will be released in May 2007. Sunset Rubdown's Jordan Robson-Cramer (who also plays on the B-side to the first single), Telefauna's Adam Waito, and SS Cardiacs' Jessie Stein have recently joined Graham in the live lineup of Miracle Fortress.

Average customer rating: Outstanding!! GET HOOKED ON HAZEL!!!!!!!! Great all around Even *I* like it This one's a keeper

Fortress Sister Hazel Manufacturer: Umvd Labels ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Post Grunge | American Alternative | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music General | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Similar Items: Somewhere More Familiar Chasing Daylight Lift Sister Hazel Live Live ASIN: B00004U029 Release Date: 2000-06-27

Tracks:

1. Change Your Mind
2. Back Porch
3. Thank You
4. Champagne High
5. Beautiful Thing
6. Surreal
7. Shame on Me
8. Your Winter
9. Strange Cup of Tea
10. Save Me
11. Give In
12. Out There
13. Elvis
14. Fortress

Amazon.com

If innovation is the yardstick by which you measure the worth of a rock band, Sister Hazel won't measure up very well. The Gainesville, Florida, septet is the very definition of a mainstream jangle-pop band, and you've heard their brand of music before, most recently from the likes of Hootie & the Blowfish, Edwin McCain, matchbox twenty, and Third Eye Blind. But in terms of sheer tunefulness and the way their melodies and lyrics lodge in your frontal lobe, Sister Hazel's songs on Fortress can make efforts by the other bands seem pale in comparison. The group's third album leads with "Change Your Mind," a feel-good summer song if ever there was one. Simple, straightforward guitar-based tunes like "Shame on Me," "Fortress," "Save Me," and "Champagne High" (featuring Indigo Girl Emily Saliers) ring with high harmonies and hook-filled choruses. If nothing else, Sister Hazel proves that it's not necessary to reinvent the wheel every time a band puts out a record. --Daniel Durchholz

Customer Reviews:

Outstanding!!.......2006-11-08

This album was one of my favourite albums for a long long time. Here's why...
First of all, I hadn't heard anything like them before. I'm a big fan of early 90's power rock and the reason I was so instantly drawn to them when I first heard their music coming from my housemates bedroom was that here was a fairly modern band sticking to their roots and not compromising their style. This album has a wanderful sounds production with the occasionally bassey crunch chords and crisp accoustic picking. The style is a mixture of southern rock, emphasised by Ken Blocks highly likeable vocals and Ryan Newells sliding guitar solo's, a bit of Chili peppers style funk and a bit of blink 182 style pop rock. I have a couple of Hootie and the blowfish albums and I've heard some counting crows before and I have to say that these only sound vaguely similar on surface level. Every song on this album is good, especially Drew Copelands strange cup tea with such a good mixture of songs from the emotional CHampeign high and Your winter to the highly catchy Shame on me and change your mind.
The thing that makes this better than their other albums in my opinion is the whole overall production of it. After their first two albums which took on a more simple accoustic style, this came out and just abandoned everything they had made themselves into. Fast and funky guitar solo's, innovative riffs and crunchy chords and a whole new dimention to Ken Blocks vocals. Chasing daylight provided more of the same, but there was something missing from the album that fortress had, possibly more diversity in the songs. After fortress their style started leaning more towards the blink 182 style keeping it more musically simple, but still just as catchy.

GET HOOKED ON HAZEL!!!!!!!!.......2006-09-25

Everything about this band just clicks and "it's a beautiful thing". The lyrics are meaningful, thought provoking, insightful, uplifting, fun, and simply brilliant. The powerful vocals and instrumentals blend together flawlessly so that the end result is music that will get inside your head and not let go...you will want to dance, you will want to sing along, and you will be a "hazelnut" for life!

Great all around.......2006-06-13

I have had this CD for 6 years now, buying it from Amazon a few weeks after it came out. While I traditionally go for the slightly harder sounding bands (3 Doors Down, Nickelback, Shinedown, etc.), this album from Sister Hazel is one that I can put on and decompress to. I really enjoy the sound of "Change Your Mind", "Champagne High", "Out There", "Shame On Me", and a couple of other tunes, but the whole CD is pretty good. It is definately a step up from "Somewhere More Familiar", which I thought was good, too. They released a couple more discs since then, but really haven't given them a shot. Nonetheless, I would call myself a Sister Hazel fan based on the merits of this album alone. Good, easy listening rock for your speakers.

Even *I* like it.......2005-09-25

Let's get one thing straight up front: I don't like southern-fried rock. I was never big on Skynyrd or the Allmans or Hootie or anyone else other reviewers are comparing Sister Hazel to. I'm a 47-year-old geezer who grew up on prog acts like the "classic 7" Moody Blues and Peter Gabriel's Genesis, whose CD collection today is dominated by the likes of Mozart and Handel. No country boy me.

Okay? Okay. Now, about this CD: I don't get it. How did Sister Hazel escape superstardom? How on earth did "Fortress" slip past the Grammy people? I don't have many pop/rock CDs where I'd consider every track a keeper - count 'em on one hand you have enough fingers left over for a wide selection of rude gestures. But not only isn't there a bad track on "Fortress"; there's not even a mediocre one.

Why? Number one: the music is masterful. The tunes are at once melodic enough to hum but complex enough to tickle the brain. The musicianship - especially the guitar work - is not just good, it makes you *feel* good. If these guys aren't enjoying themselves, they're putting on a heckuvan act.

Number two: the lyrics are witty and intelligent. Not only that, they're fun. Given a microphone, many bands these days (like composers of grand opera before them) wallow in self-pity or throw what amount to brat-tizzies set to music. Not Sister Hazel. I'm struck by the upbeat, positive mood in most of the songs. Even the done-me-wrong downers are clever, and often, like "Elvis," funny... in a quirky, backhanded sort of way.

This is pick-me-up music all the way. It practically winks and grins at you out of the speakers. The playing and production are seamless. Put it on after a really bad day at work and watch how fast the world rights itself. Sister Hazel: Now I know where you are, I'm coming after you... or at least, after more of your albums.

This one's a keeper.......2005-09-24

Definitely one of my Top Tier albums. This Superband is the best hardworking band out there. Don't believe me listen to their tracks. Bruce Lee is to Kung Fu as Sister Hazel is to Folk Rock. Folks this band rocks. Key tracks Out there and Your Winter.

Average customer rating: Bach and Handel Treats Fine recording, but doesn't work for me. rock on!!!!! This song is the best I have ever heard. It rocks!!!!!

Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring / Mormon Tabernacle Choir Johann Sebastian Bach , George Frideric Handel , Dr. Jerold D. Ottley , Eugene Ormandy , Richard P. Condie , Columbia Symphony Orchestra , Philadelphia Orchestra , Royal Philharmonic Orchestra , and Mormon Tabernacle Choir Manufacturer: Sony 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 Handel | Handel, George Frideric | ( H ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Mormon Tabernacle Choir | ( M ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Cantatas | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Oratorios | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Anthems | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Cantatas | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Magnificats | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Masses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music $6.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Bach, Johann Sebastian | ( B ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Handel, George Frideric | ( H ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Mormon Tabernacle Choir | ( M ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Make A Joyful Noise Rock of Ages: 30 Favorite Hymns The Mormon Tabernacle Choir's Greatest Hits: 22 Best-Loved Favorites More Greatest Hits: 18 Best Loved Favorites The Essential Mormon Tabernacle Choir ASIN: B0000027YR Release Date: 1992-07-14

Tracks:

1. Cantata No. 80: A Mighty Fortress Is Our God
2. Cantata No. 140: Zion Hears The Watchmen's Voices
3. Magnificant In D Major, BWV 243: My Soul Doth Magnify The Lord
4. Cantata No.147: Jesu, Joy Of Man's Desiring
5. Cantata No. 4: Now Keep We All This Holy Feast
6. Cantata No. 208: Sheep May Safely Graze
7. Mass In B Minor, BWV 232: Et Resurrexit
8. Cantata No. 79: Now Thank We All Our God
9. Cantata No. 140: Sleepers Awake
10. Samson: Awake The Trumpet's Lofty Sound
11. Samson: Let Their Celestial Concerts All Unite
12. Judas Maccabaeus: See, The Conqu'ring Hero Comes!
13. Judas Maccabaeus: Sing Unto God
14. Judas Maccabaeus: Hallelujah, Amen
15. Saul: Welcome, Welcome Mighty King
16. Saul: David, His Ten Thousands Slew
17. Israel In Egypt: But As For His People
18. Israel In Egypt: Sing Ye To The Lord
19. Coronation Anthem: Zadok The Priest
20. Messiah: Hallelujah

Customer Reviews:

Bach and Handel Treats.......2000-08-04

The unfortunate thingÑif anything can be said to the contrary about this collectionÑis that is an older recording. As far as authenticity, what was available in the days of Bach and Handel to perform their music, and what they may have had in mind as the formidable way of presenting it to the publicÑas well as to the heavensÑmay be quite different things. Viewed in this way, authenticity may be an abstraction we are not here priviledged to comment on.

I have marveled for years, even when these were two separate LP's, of the power and dimensionality conveyed by the way these works are performed. I still switch from one to another piece as which is my favorite. In this respect, the experience is a hermenutic delight. Any lover or respecter of Bach or Handel would not go wrong by including this collection in their musical library.

When I use the word "treats" in the title, I mean just that: it is a collection of works that one would be hard pressed to find performed together on any available recording. And so I use the metaphor "treat," as if I were given a morsel and then devoured it; and another, and devoured that one, each with a fullness of pleasure and delight, and with soul filling satisfaction.

These indivdual recordings are for the most part masterpieces in and of themselves, and to be able to listen to them as they are performed flawlessly, and in a manner that invites the Spirit of GodÑby saying they are a "treat"Ñis to merely to treat them minimally.

Fine recording, but doesn't work for me........1999-05-07

I love several of J.S. Bach's cantatas, and enjoy hearing them in a variety of ways--period performances, orchestral arrangements, etc. Therefore I'm not one to insist on authenticity. Nevertheless, the chorus here sounds too big for the Bach. Also, the program needs more variety for straight through listening. Chorus after (massive) chorus doesn't work for me.

rock on!!!!!.......1999-02-09

Jesu joy of man's desiring, holy wisdom love most bright

This song is the best I have ever heard. It rocks!!!!!.......1999-02-09

Jesu joy of man's desiring, holy wisdom love most bright

Average customer rating: Original 1978 Recording? AWESOME! John Williams shows again why he's the master of movie scores Is John Williams Superman??? Excellent! Hector, about the liner notes...

Superman - The Movie: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack Manufacturer: Rhino / Wea ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Movie Scores | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Orchestral Pop | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music Rhino Records | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Superman Returns Batman: Original Motion Picture Score Look, Up in the Sky - The Amazing Story of Superman Superman Ultimate Collector's Edition (Superman - The Movie/ Superman II/ Superman II - The Richard Donner Cut/ Superman III/ Superman IV - The Quest for Peace/ Superman Returns) Superman: The Movie - Original Sound Track ASIN: B000046PVN Release Date: 2000-02-15

Tracks:

1. Prelude and Main Title March
2. Planet Krypton, The
3. Destruction of Krypton
4. Star Ship Escapes
5. Trip to Earth, The
6. Growing Up
7. Death of Jonathan Kent
8. Leaving Home
9. Fortress of Solitude, The
10. Welcome to Metropolis
11. Lex Luthor's Lair
12. Big Rescue, The
13. Super Crime Fighter
14. Super Rescues
15. Luther's Luau
16. Planet Krypton (Alternate), The
17. Main Title March (Alternate)

Tracks:

1. Superman March (Alternate)
2. March of the Villains, The
3. Terrace, The
4. Flying Sequence, The
5. Lois and Clark
6. Crime of the Century
7. Sonic Greeting
8. Misguided Missiles and Kryptonite
9. Chasing Rockets
10. Supefeates
11. Super Dam and Finding Lois
12. Turning Back the World
13. Finale and End Title March
14. Love Theme from Superman
15. Can You Read My MInd (Alternate performed by Margot Kidder)
16. Flying Sequence/Can You Read My Mind, The
17. Can You Read My Mind (Alternate Instrumental)
18. Theme from Superman (Concert Version)

Amazon.com

Released during the era of leisure suits and pet rocks, the film Superman: The Movie has aged about as well. But the often-clumsy charms of Richard Donner's cartoonish, hit-and-miss take on the Man of Steel was blessed with at least one superlative artistic effort: John Williams's epic score. The composer's Oscar-nominated music (coming on the heels of Star Wars and Close Encounters) was a wall-to-wall heroic symphony, rife with memorable melodies and ominous arrangements. Almost every original cut on this soundtrack appears in an expanded version, supplemented by nearly a dozen previously unreleased cues and alternate takes. Featuring a deluxe slipcase and extensive, new liner notes, this is the definitive release of one of Maestro Williams's greatest scores. --Jerry McCulley

Customer Reviews:

Original 1978 Recording?.......2007-04-04

FIVE STAR FOR MUSIC. 1 STAR FOR AUDIO. Ok I've wanted this recording for almost 4 years. Now I got it. I am a discerning listener. This soundtrack is not the best quality. Tape hiss is very pronounced. You can tell it's taken directly from a cassette recording. I have other digital recordings of this music. They are miles ahead of this cd. Soundtrack is on the Rhino label. What? Rhino is not known for high fidelity. So it is very deceiving for one to buy a cd thinking it's John Williams conducting on a new recording in 1998 or whenever. It's the actual 1978 recording. Now let me unleash my rage. This thing sounds as if it's recorded with a single microphone in a bathroom, at a truck stop. Yes the music is phenomenal. My favorite track is #2 Krypton. I was hoping to discover some new hidden melodies that I've never heard in previous recording (original 1978). Nope. This IS the 1978 recording. So I will be getting the Debney recording just so I can hear what I'm missing. Love the music. Just can't hear it. ALL OF IT! But cool booklet. I can't listen to a booklet. But I got it. Whoopee.

AWESOME! John Williams shows again why he's the master of movie scores.......2006-08-31

After over a year of trying to find a seller of this fine soundtrack, I finally found it! It is high time that the full score was released on CD.
The original soundtrack release from 1978, while still an excellent collection, was sadly lacking in several of the best cues from the film. Most important of these was Track 12 (Disc 1) in which the helicopter crashes on the Daily Planet's roof and dangles precariously above the street. Williams builds on it, introducing Superman's theme into it as Clark Kent runs across the street, then rips open his shirt to reveal the 'S' - the symbol of the House of El - then enters the revolving door & exits as Superman. At the end of this is one of my favorite cues; the Superman theme is played as the Man of Steel appears above Metropolis, flying over the city on the hunt for criminals. 'Crime of the Century' (Track 6, Disc 2) was one of my favorite cues; this one portrayed the missile convoy as it made its way along the freeway, where Luthor staged the accident to get his cronies close enough to sabotage the missiles. There are too many new tracks to list here that should have been included the first time around, just a lack of space precluded this from happening.

Is John Williams Superman???.......2006-08-20

After listening to the CD, John Williams must be Superman. By far, the greatest movie score ever written.

Excellent!.......2006-08-10

Other than the over kill of "Can you read my mind", an excellent collection.

Hector, about the liner notes..........2006-07-14

I have the previous edition, and the notes that came with it were nestled next to the CD in a thick booklet (with a cover of Reeve in front of an American flag) that was large enough for the slipcase cover, but too big to fit into the CD case front. Otherwise, the one-sheet cover that came with your soundtrack is identical to the slipcase version.

Average customer rating: Maybe not Gothic, but certainly raucously good fun. I Love This Cd, Best Band Ever. Definitely Worth It An everlasting love affair with CXS Pretty good

Fortress in Flames Crüxshadows Manufacturer: Dancing Ferret Discs ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Goth | Goth & Industrial | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Alt Industrial | Industrial | Goth & Industrial | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Ethernaut Frozen Embers Telemetry of a Fallen Angel Wishfire The Mystery of The Whisper + Until The Voices Fade ASIN: B0002CQHF8 Release Date: 2004-07-06

Tracks:

1. Dragonfly
2. Never Surrender / Citadel (Clan Of Xymox Remix)
3. Winterborn (Subway To Sally Mix)
4. Cassandra (Razed In Black Remix)
5. Edge Of The World
6. Love & Hatred (Neuroactive Remix)
7. Citadel (Iris Remix)
8. Flames (CXS Decronstructed Remix)
9. Untrue (Trevor Brown Remix - With CXS Revox)
10. Fortress (Eyes To Heaven)
11. Citadel (Absurd Minds Remix)
12. Love & Hatred (Alice2 Remix)
13. Cassandra (Ego Likeness Remix)
14. Citadel (In Strict Confidence Remix)

Customer Reviews:

Maybe not Gothic, but certainly raucously good fun........2005-04-26

The Cruxshadows are an absolute delight for the high octane synthpop/EBM fanatic who has dark and gothic tendancies. In fact I am surprised that this band is not mentioned more in Synth/EBM circles, although I suppose some might take that classification as an insult( I don't think it is ). While I do have a hard time calling this album 'Goth' when comparing it in the shadow of the magnificent "Mystery of the Whisper", I can say that the band certainly know how to pull out all the stops when it comes to making a quality EP( Yes, this is actually an EP, but you'd never believe it ).

Rogue's vocals are amazingly emotional and the poetry seasoned throughout in the lyrics is top notch--But that's nothing new. Every song is brilliant and beautiful, especially Citadel, which is interpreted on this album a LOT. But I'm not complaining. Every version of the song is like hearing it for the first time. It is not merely remixed for dancefloor purposes or to appeal to diehards who want as many alternate versions as possible, it is by far what might have REALLY been meant by the term 'reinterpretation'. Each version is completely different yet strangely beautiful, and the whole 13 track disc could easily pass as a whole album( well, it truly is, let's not kid ourselves here ). The soundscapes vary from a brooding moodiness( Eyes to Heaven, Winterborn ) to utter frenzied pandamonium( Dragonfly, Citadel ) and yet they are a unified body of work that you wont mind listening to over and over, no matter your mood.

I admit that it initially took me a short while to warm up to "Fortress in Flames". I cannot sing enough Praise for "The Mystery of the Whisper" and would indeed recommend it over this album if you're looking for a more gothic sound. That is why I was initially taken aback a bit at 'Fotress..'. As great as it is, it does not have a lot of the instrumental experimentation that "Mystery.." had, such as the haunting violins and dark organ sounds that distinguished Mystery as eerie and 'Gothic". Of course everyone has their opinion of what goth really is but I think this album clearly falls into the dancefloor EBM catagory, albeit with superior lyrics and a unique charisma that most bands of that genre lack.

If you're looking for some Gothic sounds, dig a little deep into the CXS catalog. But if you love electronic music that's deep and dark, then I can't stress my recommendation enough.

I Love This Cd, Best Band Ever........2005-01-17

I listen to Fortress in Flames over and over everyday. I love it aswell as everything The Cruxshadows make. This Cd has great electronic tunes and fun dance beats. I catch myself dancing and moving everywhere whenever I listen to it. I recommend it to every Cruxshadows fan, it is a great CD. And for those who have never listened to The Cruxshadows, you should give this CD a try. I'm sure you'll fall in love with them just as I have. There is so much talent behind their music and Rogue is the master of great music. I would love to meet him and the band to tell them how much their music means to me. Give them a try, I know you'll be pleased.

~Christy-Blondcoz85~

Definitely Worth It.......2004-12-19

Great interpretations on the mixes. My favorite is definitely the Razed in Black mix of "Cassandra", that alone makes this CD worth it.

Not to mention the Clan of Xymox remix of "Never Surrender", the Neuroactive remix of "Love & Hatred" or the Subway to Sally remix of "Winterborn".

I have to agree that Dragonfly is my favorite new song of the bunch.

All in all, very diverse and clever.

An everlasting love affair with CXS.......2004-11-07

I booked and promoted this band to play in my home city, Boise this autumn. I had heard The Cruxshadows before as I already own 'Mystery of The Whisper" and our local djs have consistently played their "club" favorites at our weekly event. However, I was completely unprepared for what I was about to witness on the night of their show here. And what I saw was this: unprecidented, mesmerizing music and a fabulous show - the likes of which I had never been privileged to see. Rogue's voice, the musicianship of all the other band members and their solid, unwavering talent is really difficult to dispute. My husband is not really a fan of this type of music, but he was dully impressed, thoroughly enjoyed the show and now calls himself a fan. He regularly asks where the cd is in the house so we can play it.

This is the first full-length album of theirs that I have listened to besides 'Mystery', and I have to say it really blew me away as compared to this other album. I enjoy 'Mystery', but I think Fortress in Flames is clear evidence of evolvement that The Cruxshadows have undergone in their development into musical maturity. Others on this review board have stated their normal dislike for EPs, and I wholeheartedly agree that this album breaks the mold. It doesn't even matter that some of the songs are represented with different remixes twice. They are all outstanding and superbly produced, with no apparent redundancies coming though.

This music doesn't necessarily fit into a gothic category, although it appeals to many fans of gothic music and so-called goths. It is really obvious though, once you listen to this album and give it a fair chance...without allowing yourself to be affected by whatever predjudices you possess and stereotypes you carry already about so-called "gothic" music...that you will at the very least consider this one of the better albums you've heard in a long time. At best, it will get you hooked immediately and cause you to be a Cruxshadows fan forever.

Pretty good.......2004-09-12

Im not realy a fan of goth at all but both bands "paralysed age" and "cruxshadows" are realy good even for a deathmetal fan like me. I quess good music, atracts every one. If your into good musicianship, originality, and, well produced album then get it. I dont like goth music and yet i love cruxshadows. Order it!

Average customer rating: The Price Club A living legend not your daddy's old timey spiritual Immaculate Vocals of Leontyne Price Great Gospel Stuff

The Essential Leontyne Price: Spirituals, Hymns & Sacred Songs Manufacturer: RCA ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Gershwin | Gershwin, George | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Gounod | Gounod, Charles | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Schubert | Schubert, Franz | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Price, Leontyne | ( P ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music Gershwin, George | C to G | Featured Composers, A-Z | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Gounod, Charles | C to G | Featured Composers, A-Z | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Schubert, Franz | Q to T | Featured Composers, A-Z | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Anonymous | A to B | Featured Composers, A-Z | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Folk Songs | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Noels | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Price, Leontyne | Divas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General Christmas | Holiday | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music General Christmas | Holiday Music | Special Features | Music Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Leontyne Price: The Ultimate Collection Leontyne Price Christmas Songs Chants de Noel.Weihnachtslieden Wiener Philharmoniker Herbert Von Karajan Amazing Grace: Jessye Norman Spirituals in Concert Spirituals ASIN: B000003FWE Release Date: 1997-01-14

Tracks:

1. Ev'ry Time I Feel The Spirit - Various Artists
2. Let Us Break Bread Together On Our Knees - Various Artists
3. His Name So Sweet - Various Artists
4. 'Roun' About The Mountain - Various Artists
5. Swing Low , Sweet Chariot - Various Artists
6. Sit Down, Servant - Various Artists
7. Were You There - Various Artists
8. He's Got The Whole World In His Hands - Various Artists
9. Deep River - Various Artists
10. Honor! Honor! - Various Artists
11. My Soul's Been Anchored In De Lord - Various Artists
12. On Ma Journey - Various Artists
13. A City Called Heaven - Various Artists
14. Ride On, King Jesus - Various Artists
15. I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel To Be Free - Various Artists
16. Sinner, Please Don't Let This Harvest Pass - Various Artists
17. Sweet Little Jesus Boy - Various Artists
18. There Is A Balm In Gilead - Various Artists
19. Let Us Cheer The Weary Traveler - Various Artists
20. Ev'ry Time I Feel The Spirit - Various Artists
21. My Way Is Cloudy - Various Artists
22. Nobody Knows The Touble I've Seen - Various Artists
23. I Couldn't Hear Nobody Pray - Various Artists

Tracks:

1. Holy, Holy, Holy - Leontyne Price
2. Lead, Kindly Light - Leontyne Price
3. Blessed Assurance - Leontyne Price
4. Ave Maria - Leontyne Price
5. What A Friend We Have In Jesus - Leontyne Price
6. Amazing Grace - Leontyne Price
7. The Lord's Prayer - Leontyne Price
8. Pass Me Not, O Gentle Savior - Leontyne Price
9. The Church's One Foundation - Leontyne Price
10. Bless This House - Leontyne Price
11. I Need Thee Every Hour - Leontyne Price
12. Schlesische Volkslieder: Fairest Lord Jesus - Leontyne Price
13. I Wonder As I Wander - Leontyne Price
14. Ave Maria - Leontyne Price
15. Porgy And Bess: Summertime - Leontyne Price
16. America The Beautiful - Leontyne Price
17. Lift Ev'ry Voice And Sing - Leontyne Price
18. A Mighty Fortress Is Our God - Leontyne Price
19. Battle Hymn Of The Republic - Leontyne Price

Customer Reviews:

The Price Club.......2005-04-28

"I am here," said Leontyne Price when interviewed as she opened the new Metropolitan Opera with Samuel Barber's underrated ANTONY AND CLEOPATRA, "and you will know that I am the best and will hear me. The color of my skin or the kink of my hair or the spread of my mouth has nothing to do with what you are listening to." Back in the 1960s Price was one of the greatest divas in all of opera, and it wasn't just her voice but her magnificent stage presence, combined with her social activism. All of the above come into play in this collection of secular songs and ditties, some of them traditional plantation chanties and others, art songs and a scattering of pop music. And some of them, like Gershwin's "Summertime," cross the ever-permeable boundaries between Broadway and classical. These recordings were made at different times in Price's career, and her voice, while always angelic, has different shadings and reaches a different range of timbre in each separate recording date, but there is no question that, as time goes by, she is able to impart a richness of life experience noticeably absent from some of her earlier work.

"Ave Maria" sounds heavenly no matter which way you slice it, and as for "I Wonder As I Wander," it brings tears to your eyes. If you have a heart that's beating you will be moved by this rendition. "Ein feste Burg" is pretty strong, but Price seems more comfortable with the traditional spirituals, though perhaps it is the slightly off-kilter sounds of the Ambrosian Singers (what a name) who back her up on many of these tracks, that detract slightly from the experience. Compare "Lead Kindly Light" for a clear sense of what constitutes authority vs. what is a wee bit overproduced. If you had this compilation, and perhaps one of Leontyne Price's Christmas albums, you could attain nirvana any time you wanted to, just flip a switch and close your eyes, let her lift you up on wings of song.

A living legend.......2005-03-10

Leontyne Price (still alive) and already passing into immortality amongst vocal artists, both classical and popular. Leontyne Price stands at the pinnacle of her classical art, but those who only know her work in La Forza del destino or the Verdi Requiem are in for a heart rending treat with this album where Leontyne Price goes home to her roots in Mississippi and gives an unabashed account of the classic spirituals she sang as a young woman. Like John Mc Cormacks rendering of Irish songs there is a personal longing and devotion expressed here that reveals a side of the artist not known in the bulk of their "classical" repetoire. A sense of going home like Citizen Kane's rosebud, or as Dorothy Gale observes at the end of the Wizard of Oz "everything I could ever have wanted was right in my own backyard "

not your daddy's old timey spiritual.......2004-06-23

Agreed this is a good cd for a beautiful voice, but this is not, repeat not, for someone who wants to hear that old-timey religious fervor that you think of when you've been to a Black Baptist hand-clapping, standing, swaying, and singing service.

Immaculate Vocals of Leontyne Price.......2003-12-31

IMMACULATE, SUPERB vocal range and style! There's no other words that can complement Miss Leontyne Price's vocal arrangements. Miss Price's voice is strong, and shrills very nicely to the instruments played on many songs listed on this double CD which is a joy to treasure; every song listed are songs I was raised to hearing and singing. Miss Price is the reason why many of these songs remain in popularity and presently used. Miss Leontyne Price has been incredible in many of her past performances. This is my fourth CD of Miss Price and I am glad to own this particular CD forever and ever. Many thanks to the executors who found this remarkable album and upgraded it to a CD format! **Angi**

Great Gospel Stuff.......2001-04-12

This is a great CD. The only problem I have with it is that on some of the selections there is a boy's choir screaming in the background, and this takes away (a bit) from her performance. That said, her best selections are those that are either unaccompanied or those where her voice is not buried. Songs that strike me are - His Name So Sweet, He's Got The Whole World, Were You There, I Wonder as I Wander, Lift Every Voice and Sing, and my all time favourite Summertime. Enough said.

Average customer rating: Good collection of German Mass Lieder arrangements. A representative selection of Luther's music

Luther: German Hymn Mass / Chorales Manufacturer: Cantate ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Similar Items: Martin Luther & The Music Mass for Christmas Morning Psalms of the French Reformation Musik der Reformation: Ein feste Burg ist unser Gott Bach: Lutheran Masses Vol.1 ASIN: B000003CFZ Release Date: 1996-10-01

Tracks:

1. German Hymn Mass: Kyrie
2. German Hymn Mass: Gloria
3. German Hymn Mass: Credo
4. German Hymn Mass: Sanctus
5. German Hymn Mass: Agnus Dei
6. German Hymn Mass: Te Deum Laudamus
7. German Hymn Mass: Da Pacem
8. Chorales: Ein Feste Burg Ist Unser Gott
9. Chorales: Erhalt Uns, Herr, Bei Deinem Wort
10. Chorales: Gelobet Seist Du, Jesu Christ - Bachchor Gutersloh/Hermann Kreutz
11. Chorales: Christ Lag In Todesbanden - Bachchor Gutersloh/Hermann Kreutz
12. Chorales: Es Woll Uns Gott Genadig Sein - Bachchor Gutersloh/Hermann Kreutz
13. Chorales: Nun Freut Euch, Lieben Christen - Motettenchor St. Matthaus, Muchen/Hans Rudolf Zobeley
14. Chorales: Vater Unser Im Himmelreich - Motettenchor St. Matthaus, Muchen/Hans Rudolf Zobeley

Customer Reviews:

Good collection of German Mass Lieder arrangements........1999-10-19

This recording of Martin Luther's German Mass Lieder was done in the 1960's. Some the songs from the Mass are monophonic, some of the other hymns are in stereo. It is a good recording, crisp and clear, even the mono sections. A good supplement for any reformation music collection.

A representative selection of Luther's music.......1999-09-09

This disc is a relatively definitive collection of Martin Luther's sacred music. It contains his Lutheran mass, plus many of his chant hymns, including "A Mighty Fortress."

Average customer rating: How can you call these "Hymns" wonderful collection of magnificent music Flawed but enjoyable Hymns through the Centuries A must own for classic church music lovers

Hymns Through the Centuries J. Reilly Lewis , Cathedral Choral Society , William Gardiner , Johannes Cruger , Melchior Teschner , William Henry Monk , Virgil Thomson , George Elvey , Thomas Hastings , and John [composer] Goss Manufacturer: Gothic Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Monk, William Henry | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Thomson | Thomson, Virgil | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Hymns | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Similar Items: Hymns Triumphant 1 & 2 Be Still My Soul: The Ultimate Hymns Collection Hymns Through the Centuries 2 Abide With Me Praise to the Lord - Hymns From St. Paul's Cathedral ASIN: B00003XB8M Release Date: 2000-02-22

Tracks:

1. When In Our Music God Is Glorified
2. Ye Watchers And Ye Holy Ones
3. A Mighty Fortress Is Our God
4. Where Cross The Crowded Ways Of Life
5. O Sacred Head, Sore Wounded
6. All Glory, Laud And Honor
7. Abide With Me; Fast Falls The Eventide
8. My Shepherd Will Supply My Need
9. Come, Ye Thankful People, Come
10. Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence
11. Rock Of Ages, Cleft For Me
12. Praise, My Soul, The King Of Heaven
13. Come, Risen Lord
14. Carillon Hymn: St. Peter
15. Eternal Father, Strong To Save
16. Amazing Grace! How Sweet The Sound
17. Holy, Holy Holy! Lord God Almighty
18. Nearer, My God, To Thee
19. Dear Lord And Father Of Mankind
20. In Christ There Is No East Or West
21. Were You There When They Crucified My Lord?
22. Crown Him With Many Crowns
23. Word Of God, Come Down On Earth
24. The Church's One Foundation
25. God Of Our Fathers
26. Father, In Thy Gracious Keeping
27. Peal Bells

Customer Reviews:

How can you call these "Hymns".......2006-08-05

Not to harp on anyone here, but it's obvious that none of you grew up in a church or environment that had a good choir. I know, a Hymn is a genre of music, but a recording of a hymn isn't one if it doesn't contain HARMONY. If they're a "choir," then why don't the tenors sing a different note than the sopranos, altos, and basses? The organist is quite good, I'll admit, but you're wasting your time if you're looking for a good recording of these beautiful songs that were COMPOSED with harmony, not unison. If they want to sing in unison like this, they need to be stripped of their "choir" status and simply be called a "group."

wonderful collection of magnificent music.......2006-01-18

Most everything on this CD is very well done. The recording environment might have been less than perfect, but that shouldn't dimish one's enjoyment very much. Most of the arrangements are very traditional, with the notable exception of Amazing Grace, which though it isn't terrible, it isn't very good either. Some songs had verses removed, which is understandable, though it was poorly done in Eternal Father, Strong to Save -- they did verse 1 ("Eternal Father"), then they skipped(!!!) verse 2 ("O Christ, the Lord") and went on to the final verses ("Holy Spirit" and "O Trinity") -- which is skipping Someone important! However, outside of that, it was excellent.

If you like sacred music, or hymns, then you'll thoroughly enjoy this CD. If you're a Christian, you should enjoy this as well, no matter your taste in music (and you might just learn to like hymns as well!). It is a well-chosen set of some of the most magnificent, God-honoring music of all time, done is a mostly very traditional manner, and it was done well.

Flawed but enjoyable.......2005-04-15

The huge size and reverberating acoustics of Washington National Cathedral make it difficult to hear any kind of live choral performance clearly, even if you're sitting in the front rows in the nave. The Cathedral Choral Society is handicapped by having to record in this acoustically mushy space, and it shows in this CD, often creating an uneven balance between the organ and the chorus as noted by other reviewers. The repertoire is well-chosen, but the quality of the arrangements is uneven. Too often, the chorus seems to be singing in unison right out of the Hymnal, like any parish church choir at an ordinary Sunday service. Certain pieces do suggest the heights which the Society is capable of attaining. But the group never achieves the splendor that the Cathedral Choir of Men and Boys displays every Sunday morning. Just when the Society seems to be getting there, the conductor pulls them back. And the shrill folk arrangement of "Amazing Grace" will have you covering your ears as the sopranos shriek clumsily, confusing volume with fervor.

Hymns through the Centuries.......2002-03-18

This is not a review. I just have a question. Does "Hymns through the Centuries" contain the hymn "It is Well with my Soul?" Thanks.

A must own for classic church music lovers.......2002-02-16

I purchased this CD just based on the titles and am very glad I did. There are only two downsides to the album. First is the fact that there isn't a companion CD with 26 more hymns! Second is picky, but I do agree with another rater that the organ could have been a little louder related to the singing. Hope you enjoy listening!

Average customer rating: Truly a Festival for the Ears, Hearts, and Soul! So You Thought Bach Couldn't Dance!

A Bach Festival for Brass & Organ Johann Sebastian Bach , and Empire Brass Manufacturer: Angel Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by J.S. Bach | Bach, Johann Sebastian | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Organ | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Cantatas | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Oratorios | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Cantatas | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Similar Items: Baroque Music for Brass and Organ Music for Organ, Brass & Percussion The World Sings: An Empire Brass Christmas Music Of Gabrieli Ceremonial Music for Trumpet & Symphonic Organ ASIN: B000A9QLB8 Release Date: 2005-08-16

Tracks:

1. Jauchzet, frohlocket! (Christmas Oratorio, BWV 248)
2. Wie will ich mich freuen (Cantata BWV 146, Wir mussen durch viel Trubasal)
3. Sleepers, Awake! (Cantata BWV 140, Wachet auf, ruft uns die Stimme)
4. Concerto and Alleluja (Cantata BWV 142, Uns ist ein Kind geboren)
5. Three Chorales: Nun lob', mein Seel', den Herrn; Wie schon leuchtet der Morgenstern; In dulci jubilo (Brass only)
6. In dulci julibo, BWV 129 (Organ solo)
7. Nun danket Alle Gott (Cantata BWV 79, Gott, der Herr is Sonn' und Schild)
8. Sinfonia (Cantata BWV 29 Wir danken, dir, Gott, wir danken dir)
9. Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring (Cantata BWV 147, Herz und Mund und Tat und Leben)
10. Sinfonia (Easter Oratorio, BWV 249)
11. Allein Gott in der Hoh' sei Ehr', BWV 664 (Organ solo)
12. Three Chorales: Allein Gott in der Hoh' sei Ehr', Christ lag in Todesbanden, O Haupt voll Blut und Wunden (Brass only)
13. Wir eilen mit schwachen, doch emsigen Schritten (Cantata BWV 78, Jesu, der du meine Seele)
14. Shee May Safely Graze (Cantata BWV 208, Was mir behagt)
15. Wir glauben all' in einem Gott, BWV 680 (Organ solo)
16. A Mighty Fortress is Our God (Cantata BWV 80, Ein feste Burg ist unser Gott)

Customer Reviews:

Truly a Festival for the Ears, Hearts, and Soul!.......2007-01-04

I spent a looooooooong time hunting the "perfect" recordings of "Jesu..." and "Sinfonia" for our wedding. I knew just what I wanted but I had NO IDEA there were so many different (and substandard!) versions of these songs available. THIS one was EXACTLY it. The horns are simply fantastic. If you're a musician, you'll love it.

So You Thought Bach Couldn't Dance!.......2005-12-20

This recording is almost certainly the same as the one listed as Angel 47395, with the same title. Along with several others, I reviewed that CD, and for your convenience I echo my remarks below:

If you think of Bach as a dry-as-dust, longhair composer you should stay away from this album, for it will prove you wrong, time and time and time again. On the contrary, this is one of the most exciting recordings around, featuring matchless performances by the superlative Empire Brass (my favorite brass group) and the talented Douglas Major playing the great Aeolian-Skinner organ of the Washington Cathedral (in D.C.) in some of the best-loved works of the old master, Johann Sebastian Bach.

But unfortunately this disk seems not to be in EMI's (Angel's) current catalog, so if you want to enjoy it, you'll probably have to try to track down a used copy. If you like Bach and brass and organ as much as I, you'll find it worth the effort. And we may hope that it will be reissued again soon.

In general, the music here is lively, tuneful, and joyous in character, starting from the very first selection, a fully satisfying transcription of the well-known "Jauchzet, frohlocket" (Exult, rejoice) from the Christmas Oratorio. But there are a few more somber pieces, such as the chorales "Christ lag in Todesbanden," (Christ lay in the bonds of death) and "O Haupt voll Blut und Wunden," (O bloody and wounded head).

The music features basically three kind of excerpts from Bach's cantatas: choral preludes, chorales, and sinfonia. The choral preludes were written as organ introductions to the sung chorales (here "sung" by the brass quintet alone); the sinfonias were instrumental interludes in the cantatas. Most of the choral preludes here are played by the brass with the organ, though there are a few played by the organ alone. This combination of performances by the brass alone, the organ alone, and the two together offers delicious variety.

As a glance at the program will show, most of the big favorites in this genre are included, the best known being titled in English, as "Sleepers, Wake," "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring," and "Sheep May Safely Graze." The others are titled in Latin ("In Dulci Jubilo") or, mostly, German ("Nun danket Alle Gott," [Now let all thank God], "Wie schn leuchtet der Morgenstern," [How beautifully the morning star shines], and "Wir eilen mit schwachen, doch emsigen Schritten" [We hasten with feeble, but eager footsteps].

It is the last-mentioned piece that suggested the title of this review, for in interpreting the text Bach and the performing artists give us such a rhythmic and lively bit of music that I find it hard to sit still while listening. This piece rocks!

The recording is excellent in all respects: the balance between organ and brass is right, the sound quality is all you could want, and the acoustics of the Washington Cathedral provide about the right amount of reverberation. (You will, by the way, hear the brass players taking breaths at several points, especially in the chorales.

The sound of the Empire Brass seems uniquely fine to me; though there are several other excellent brass groups around, this one I can usually recognize almost immediately because of the quality of their sound. And the 10,650-pipe cathedral organ presents under Douglas Major's fingers all you could wish for.

Average customer rating: What can I say ! a voice teacher and early music fan Another Rutter Keeper! worship of god made mostglorius in this cd Heavenly Music

Sing Ye Heavens - Hymns for All Time Cambridge Singers , and John Rutter Manufacturer: Collegium ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Gibbons, Orlando | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Purcell, Henry | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Rutter | Rutter, John | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Tallis | Tallis, Thomas | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Purcell, Henry | Composers | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Sacred & Religious | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music | Requiems Vocal & Song | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music | Requiems General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Chants | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Hymns | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Psalms | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Similar Items: Hymns Triumphant 1 & 2 Best Loved Hymns A Vaughan Williams Hymnal Hymns Through the Centuries Praise to the Lord - Hymns From St. Paul's Cathedral ASIN: B00004WGEZ Release Date: 2000-08-02

Tracks:

1. Hymns From The Psalms: O God, Our Help In Ages Past
2. Hymns From The Psalms: The King Of Love My Shepherd Is
3. Hymns From The Psalms: A Mighty Fortress Is Our God
4. Invocations: Veni, Creator Spiritus
5. Invocations: Lo! He Comes With Clouds Descending
6. Invocations: Love Divine, All Loves Excelling
7. The Eucharist: Pange Lingua
8. The Eucharist: Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence
9. Passiontide And Easter: Vexilla Regis
10. Passiontide And Easter: Drop, Drop Slow Tears
11. Passiontide And Easter: When I Survey The Wondrous Cross
12. Passiontide And Easter: Christ The Lord Is Risen Today
13. Folk Hymns: Be Thou My Vision
14. Folk Hymns: All Things Bright And Beautiful
15. Folk Hymns: Morning Has Broken
16. Folk Hymns: Amazing Grace
17. Folk Hymns: We Plough The Fields, And Scatter
18. Evening Hymns: Glory To Thee, My God, This Night
19. Evening Hymns: The Day Thou Gavest, Lord Is Ended
20. Thanksgiving And Dedication: Eternal God
21. Thanksgiving And Dedication: Christ Is Made The Sure Foundation

Amazon.com

It's good to have the clean-vowelled, fresh-voiced Cambridge Singers back in action with composer John Rutter, who demonstrates once again his considerable talents as a choral director. Here, he also had his work cut out arranging 15 of the tracks (and composing one other). Divided up into various categories, such as "the Eucharist" and "folk hymns," this album will delight the confirmed hymn enthusiast, provided that he or she doesn't insist on the pure, as-written product. Rutter's reworkings range from the bold and brassy (occasionally deliciously over the top--what would Martin Luther have thought of the naughtiness in "A mighty fortress is our God"?) to those of harp-accompanied simplicity, not least in the charming lines of "Be thou my vision." Several tasteful descants are models of their kind. There are some surprises at which to chuckle. For example, not the expected brass and organ job on "We plough the fields and scatter," but a dainty, tripping harp accompaniment to the familiar melody, such as Haydn might have wedded to a Scottish folksong. Occasional numbers might be too saccharine for some tastes, but there are cunningly placed samples of Gregorian chant, Tallis, and Gibbons to provide contrast and cleanse the palate. --Andrew Green

Customer Reviews:

What can I say !.......2007-02-15

Having listened to this twice... It is difficult to find words for something so Glorious. It doesn't almost hurt, but I almost exploded in heavenly rapture several times.
You will need to get two. It is not music that you will want to keep to yourself.

a voice teacher and early music fan.......2007-02-02

'The hymns heard on this disc span over 15 centuries of the history of Christian Europe, and have been chosen simply to make up a varied program which can be pleasant to hear.' Some items are accompanied by organ, some by harp where a lighter sound was more appropriate. Some are unaccompanied as in the Gregorian hymns, and five of the grandest hymns are given festival arrangements using brass, timpani, percussion and organ. Although the perspective of this album is Anglican,it must be noted that the Anglican hymn tradition has been notably eclectic. Hymnody is forever changing. 'This album does NOT attempt to reflect the most recent changes-the emergence of pop and folk-influenced worship songs and choruses has been well taken care of elsewhere, and time alone will tell whether there is any lasting worth in this most drastic upheaval of worship style.' Therefore, it is timely to reflect upon the immense riches of hymns built up over so many centuries, when they are at great risk of neglect. John Rutter has produced an amazing number of arrangements as well as original songs, and they are all first-rate. Choirs throughout the world (who are skilled enough to sing them)take great pleasure in working with his selections, and audiences, regardless of listening experience seem to enjoy them. They are tuneful, clever and unusual!!!
The Cambridge Singers number : 10 female sopranos,2 male and 4 female altos, 7 tenors and 8 basses. They sing extremely well with clear consonents and well-shaped vowels and plenty of gusto. I miss the boy sopranos that usually sing in the British choirs, but that's only a personal preference, and it surely is not Rutter's preference, because I have never known him to make use of them. A truly inspiring recording, nonetheless.

Another Rutter Keeper!.......2003-02-17

Rutter has won many fans throughout the world for his passionate, creative yet tasteful contributions to church music. Here is a hymn collection with several traditional choices along with Rutter originals.

Several comprise Rutter's remakes, which is most cases are very diginified and not at all distractive to the thrust of the original. The orchestration is superb, and the Cambridge Singers of course provide outstanding choral might.

Well worth consideration to the church music collection.

worship of god made mostglorius in this cd.......2002-04-30

i was 1st introduced to john rutters music on a radio program... when i 1st heard the arrangement of christ the lord is risen today presented in this cd i pictured a grand celebration of the solemn mass of the resurection of our lord and pictured in particular the grand procession i pictured this being celebrated... this hymn and cd does as best as humanly possible represent the great glory of god and does as its title suggests sing with the heavens and for you fellow traditionalists this is a strongly recomended cd

Heavenly Music.......2001-10-15

The hymns of SING, YE HEAVENS represent 1500 years of music in the Christian church. Pure and rich are these hymns by the Cambridge Singers with their perfect diction that leaves nothing for improvement and their tone quality that envelops the listener. The beauty of the harp, the organ, and the brass adds to the pleasure this CD brings to the listener's ear and heart.

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