Stream

1. Turn It into Love

2. Chatterbox

3. Impermanence

4. Metamorphis

5. Smile

6. Letting Go

7. Offspring

8. Reliable Sources

9. After the Dust Settles

10. Century Sister

11. Messenger

12. You Are My Sanity

13. Stream

Stream,Tim Reynolds,T.R. Music,American Trad Rock,Americana,Pop,Rock,Rock/Pop

---

Stream

Average customer rating: spiritual americana Rich Heritage Superb Can't walk away from it! Mana from Heaven

American Angels Manufacturer: Harmonia Mundi Fr. ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music | Requiems Anonymous 4 | ( A ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Folk Songs | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Anonymous | A to B | Featured Composers, A-Z | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Classical | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: Gloryland Wolcum Yule: Celtic and British Songs and Carols - Anonymous 4 with Andrew Lawrence-King 1000: A Mass for the End of Time / Anonymous 4 A Portrait Of Anonymous 4 The Origin of Fire: Music and Visions of Hildegard von Bingen ASIN: B0001ADB4Q Release Date: 2004-02-10

Tracks:

1. Holy Manna
2. Abbeville
3. Wondrous Love
4. Sweet Hour Of Prayer
5. Jewett
6. Dunlap's Creek
7. New Britain
8. The Morning Trumpet
9. Resignation
10. Poland
11. Wayfaring Stranger
12. Sweet By And By
13. Blooming Vale
14. Idumea (I)/Idumea (II)
15. Sweet Prospect
16. Shall We Gather At The River
17. Amanda
18. Invitation
19. Parting Hand
20. Angel Band

Amazon.com

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

Customer Reviews:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Average customer rating: Be transported Satie with a Twist! A Win --- on many counts Dumbing down Satie Loussier takes on Satie

Satie: Gymnopedies Gnossiennes / Jacques Loussier Trio Benoit Dunoyer De Segonzac , Andre Arpino , Jacques Loussier , Jacques Loussier Trio , and Erik Satie Manufacturer: Telarc ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Variations | Variations | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Bebop General | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Jazz | Styles | Music Swing General | Swing Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music Similar Items: Plays Debussy Solo Piano: Impressions on Chopin's Nocturnes Baroque Favorites Jacques Loussier Trio: Bach's Goldberg Variations Jacques Loussier Plays Bach ASIN: B000007NGR Release Date: 1998-05-26

Tracks:

1. Gymnopedie No.1 / Var. 1
2. Gymnopedie No. 1 / Var. 2
3. Gnossienne No. 3
4. Gnossienne No. 6
5. Gnossienne No. 2
6. Gnossienne No. 1 / Var. 3
7. Gnossienne No. 4
8. Gnossienne No. 5
9. Gymnopedie No. 1 / Var. 4
10. Gnossienne No. 1
11. Pas A Pas

Customer Reviews:

Be transported.......2006-12-25

In my opinion, the Jacques Loussier Trio is best at interpreting classic Impressionist masterworks.
"Satie: Gymnopedies/Gnossiennes" is haunting and atmospheric musical poetry and, I think, superior to their other attempts at integrating classical and jazz into one musical statement. The entire CD reminds me of the musical equivalent of J.M.W. Turner's Venetian watercolours. Stunning! Also, check out "JLT Plays Debussy".

Jacques Loussier Trio's "Satie" takes the listener on a trip. Gnossienne No. 4 is especially effective in transporting the listener to a quiet "cinema noir" oasis full of intrigue. This jazz trio's technique lends itself much better to interpretations of delicate impressionist masterworks rather than to classic baroque. This is NOT smooth jazz but each piece is "fluid" or "atmospheric", just as Satie would have wanted it! The haunting sound is perfect- translucent as any mountain lake. In my opinion, this is Loussier's best disc and rates as one of the top discs in the classical-jazz hybrid genre, "Third Stream".

Satie with a Twist!.......2006-01-11

I have long considered Satie's Gnossienne to be some of the most emotionally touching and versatile pieces in music. So to pass a lazy afternoon, I went searching for as many versions of them as possible. I found everything from guitar to harp to dancefloor remixes. But there was one interpretation that stood out from all of them: the Jacques Loussier Trio interpretations.

First, I disagree vehemently with what one can only describe as the dense and snobbish two star review below. Satie's music is not degraded here; it is simply reinterpreted into a new genre. But my ears (nor those of any other reviewer, it seems) detect any degredation or "dumbing down" of Satie. Rather, the Loussier Trio handle Satie's delicate pieces with all the care they deserve. They do well at playing minimalistically, using no more notes than are necessary. I can't help but think that this is the way Satie would have wanted it, as his compositions cry out for exactly that style.

While there are a few question marks on the CD (for instance, trying to fit a 3/4 Gymnopedie into 4/4)even the weaker tracks (relatively speaking) are worth a good listen. The Gnossienne (particularly the first four) take the cake, though!

A brief descriptive note before I leave you to buy the CD. Any lover of the "new" European (particularly Nordic) jazz, such as the Esbjorn Svensson trio, or the Tord Gustavsen trio, will UNQUESTIONABLY love the Jacques Loussier trio. Loussier has mastered the type of sparse and dark sound achieved by the said trios.

You are in for a treat, indeed!

A Win --- on many counts.......2004-04-03

My introduction to the Gymnopedies was hearing Blood Sweat and Tears rendition on their 2nd album. I've been entranced by them ever since. I've collected the purist renditions of the work, and then I heard the lead track of this CD on our local Jazz/NPR station, KPLU.

I was immediately obsessed with finding out who/what/where.

I did, and I purchased this disc and several others. I was not disappointed. Other writers here are far more eloquent than I about the musical content; suffice it to say that Loussier remains true to the mood and emotion of the original, and his improvizations on those themes brings a new and fresh point of view to these already beautiful works.

Last, I'll comment on a technical point. These recordings are stunning. Totally natural sounds, and a stunning mix. Everything is in its place, you hear everything. The SACD version is even better. The older recordings (like the original Bach) are not at all dated in their sound.

I applaud this artist, this work, and this recording. Few of my recent CD purchases have been this satisfying.

Dumbing down Satie.......2004-01-12

Satie's Gymnopedies are beautiful and expressive works -- that have a distinctive sound. This interpretation dilutes Satie with "soft jazz" that is oh-so-familiar -- and not very interesting.

Loussier takes on Satie.......2000-09-12

It was this recording of Loussier playing the works of Satie that got me interested in this musician. Loussier's style lends itself well to Satie (perhaps even more so than Bach), and the music is very nice as a soft jazz CD.

Average customer rating: THAT was a Brandenburg? Lossy Compression

Bach: The Brandenburgs Jacques Loussier Trio Manufacturer: Telarc ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD France | Continental Europe | Europe | International | Styles | Music General | Jazz | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music $9.99 and Under | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Jazz | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music International | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music $9.99 and Under | Prices | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Solo Piano: Impressions on Chopin's Nocturnes Jacques Loussier Trio: Mozart Piano Concertos 20/23 Jacques Loussier Trio: Bach's Goldberg Variations Plays Debussy Baroque Favorites ASIN: B000IFQLSC Release Date: 2006-10-24

Tracks:

1. I. (Allegro)
2. II. Adagio
3. III. Allegro
4. I. (Allegro)
5. II. Andante
6. III. Allegro Assasi
7. I. (Allegro)
8. II. Adagio
9. III. Allegro
10. I. Allegro
11. II. Andante
12. III. Presto
13. I. Allegro
14. II. Affettuoso
15. III. Allegro
16. I. (Allegro)
17. II. Allegro
18. III. Adagio Ma Non Troppo

Amazon.com

In bringing a sprightly jazz-trio sound to classical works, most notably by J.S. Bach, pianist Jacques Loussier has been dismissed as a lightweight popularizer by both hardcore jazz fans and serious classical enthusiasts. Yet he must be doing something right to be at it more than 45 years after founding his Play Bach Trio. Loussier's strategy in tackling all six of Bach's beloved Brandenburg Concertos, he said, involved "reducing his music to its essence" rather than elaborating on the musical texts as he once did. As ever, the notes are exceptionally clean and the rhythms neat, though bassist Benoit Dunoyer de Segonzac and drummer Andre Aprino give them a bit more oomph. Lo these decades after crossover ventures such as Dave Brubeck's "Blue Rondo a la Turk," and the Modern Jazz Quartet's superior Bachian delights, the jazz-meets-classical concept can be a bit dated. But Loussier's commitment to it can't be denied.   --Lloyd Sachs 

Customer Reviews:

THAT was a Brandenburg?.......2007-01-11

I have always loved the Brandenburgs, but this treatment is excellent. I first heard this in the car, and called to get the performer and CD ID. Listening where I could really pay attention was more rewarding. Lousssier has adapted Bach with flair, and made it new again. Bravo.

Lossy Compression.......2006-12-24

Loussier and his trio have produced recordings of Bach that are absolutely mandatory. He has a gift for producing something between free improvisation and the original work that must be experienced. Yet in this recording his gift for going right to the heart and theme of the music takes away much of the power of the original Brandenburg concertos. He makes excellent music but the six hands of his trio are incapable of reproducing the staggering complexity of the Brandenburgs. These concertos are quite unlike Bach's concertos for solo instruments or even concertos for multiple keyboards--the Brandenburgs weave multiple themes each from a unique grouping of instruments. Of necessity, Loussier's trio homogenizes the work--complexity is the soul of Bach and in an interpretation that must, of necessity, compromise thematic elements, the soul of the concertos is lost.

Loussier's interpretations excel when he adds to the work being interpreted rather than simplifying the work as in this interpretation. When he takes a concerto for a solo instrument and adds the bass and drums the richness of Bach's original is preserved and highlighted in a new and intriguing way.

Still, even Loussier's less-successful work is head and shoulders above 99% of the feeble reinterpretations of the great master. Loussier understands Bach, loves Bach and provides an angle on Bach's music that should be part of any library; however, don't start with this one.

Average customer rating: Guitar music Great CD all around! Wonderfully relaxing! Very Relaxing, Highly Recommended! Has hard-to-find pieces by Bream

Guitar for Relaxation Manufacturer: RCA ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Pavanes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music Quartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by J.S. Bach | Bach, Johann Sebastian | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Granados, Enrique | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Franz Joseph Haydn | Haydn, Franz Joseph | ( H ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Henze | Henze, Hans Werner | ( H ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Martin | Martin, Frank | ( 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 Ravel, Maurice | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Tarrega | Tarrega, Francisco | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Villa-Lobos, Heitor | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Walton | Walton, Sir William | ( W ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Suites | 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 General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Lute | Instruments | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Villa-Lobos, Heitor | Composers | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Guitar | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Lute | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Bream, Julian | ( B ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | 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 $7.99 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 Granados, Enrique | ( G ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Haydn, Franz Joseph | ( H ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Henze, Hans Werner | ( H ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Martin, Frank | ( M ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus | ( M ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Ravel, Maurice | ( R ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Tarrega, Francisco | ( T ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Villa-Lobos, Heitor | ( V ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Walton, Sir William | ( W ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Bream, Julian | ( B ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Instrumental | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | 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 Similar Items: Cello for Relaxation Flute For Relaxation Violin for Relaxation Piano for Relaxation Chopin For Relaxation ASIN: B00004SSEF Release Date: 2000-05-16

Tracks:

1. Dedicatoria
2. Larghetto
3. Sempre Expressive
4. Pavane For A Dead Princess
5. The Master
6. The Son Of The Virgin
7. Pavanas
8. Prelude No.5 In D
9. Adagio, Op. 2 No.1
10. Cuna
11. Air
12. Adagio
13. Granada
14. You Beutiful Stream
15. Andante
16. Sarabande
17. Adante Sostentuo
18. Prelude

Customer Reviews:

Guitar music.......2007-02-12

This is an amazing CD. I recommend it highly for reading on a rainy day, relaxing, or just reading the paper on a Sunday morning. It's one of my top 10 relaxation CDs.

Great CD all around!.......2005-08-30

I got this CD because I am a massage therapist,and refuse to buy
those cheesey new agey relaxation CD's.I was finally getting a little tired of the bach cello concertos and a couple of other classical recordings that had been deemed "relaxing",and decided to try this one.It is great!I never seem to get tired of it!I have not had a client that didn't love it.Most even ask what it is because they like it so much.Based on the success of this CD,I am going to try the Cello For Relaxation CD in the same series.I hope that it is just as much of a hit!

Wonderfully relaxing!.......2005-05-09

This CD definitely lives up to it's name. Julian Bream's guitar playing is ethereal and leaves your mind in a state of blissful relaxation...A wonderful collection! Well worth the investment!

Very Relaxing, Highly Recommended!.......2005-05-03

I find myself choosing this CD whenever I want to unwind. It is absolutely exquisite. I have bought quite a few different "relaxation" CD's, and this is my favorite.

Has hard-to-find pieces by Bream.......2003-02-20

Despite a title sure to embarrass any self-respecting music snob, this is no less than a full disc of nicely mastered solo guitar recordings by the great Julian Bream (a string quartet joins Bream on one track). If these pieces could be easily found elsewhere, on albums with more continuity, then this disc wouldn't be worth buying. But probably 40% of the material on this cd can't be found in print, to my knowledge. In particular, the Mompou, Mozart, Llobet, Aguado, Henze, and Diabelli tracks aren't readily available elsewhere as of early 2003. Several of these tracks are nice hefty 6-7 minute pieces. In particular, the beautiful Andante from Diabelli's Sonata, arranged by Bream himself, is worth the purchase price by itself. If you're a Bream fan trying to get beyond his half-dozen easily available cds, add this to your collection.

Average customer rating: Brubeck! A must buy The Perfect Quartet Jazzman since 1942 Degree'd

The Dave Brubeck Quartet at Carnegie Hall Dave Brubeck Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Cool Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Jazz | Styles | Music Cool Jazz | Live Albums | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Live Albums | Jazz | Styles | Music Similar Items: Jazz at Oberlin Time Out For All Time Jazz Goes to College Jazz Impressions of New York ASIN: B00005AWMW Release Date: 2001-04-10

Tracks:

1. St. Louis Blues
2. Bossa Nova U.S.A.
3. For All We Know
4. Pennies From Heaven
5. Southern Scene
6. Three To Get Ready

Tracks:

1. Eleven Four
2. It's A Raggy Waltz
3. King For A Day
4. Castilian Drums
5. Blue Rondo A La Turk
6. Take Five

Customer Reviews:

Brubeck!.......2007-05-13

I listen to this one and, wow! Jazz at it's best. It never tires. Over 40 years old and still tops my list!

A must buy.......2007-03-05

This is a classic album with Dave Brubeck at his best. A collectors item.

The Perfect Quartet.......2007-01-03

I think that Paul Desmond was second only to Johnny Hodges as an alto player. I have always considered
this group supurb.

Jazzman since 1942.......2006-11-10

I purchased the CD in order to compare it with my original vinyl LP version of the concert,which I bought end of 1960. The result: The original LP played with a o.5 mg Shure system on the grooves transfers more feeling between the group and the great audience in the Carnegie hall that night. Maybe its also a little bit psychology involved. However, could it be that the zero/one editing technique is somewhat weaker than the transfer of soundwaves to the mother printing material??
Anyway The concert on CD is a must in all that Jazz collections, therefore the 5 stars.

Degree'd.......2006-01-31

This is no doubt the most important, most exciting representation of the post-Take 5 quartet on record. Both Brubeck and Desmond are on fire, and the rhythm section of Gene Wright and Joe Morello insures the flames remain bright. And unlike the studio album, "Take 5," the odd time signatures by this time have become so second-nature to the musicians that extended, extemporaneous improvisation is the order of the night. Simply put, "At Carnegie Hall" recalls the earlier college concert dates but with the addition of a state-of-the-art rhythm section and the bold, virtuosic confidence that come with experience and success.

At the same time, the earlier recordings have their own strengths. Nowhere does the quartet sound more genuinely inspired than on "Jazz at Oberlin," "Jazz at the College of the Pacific," and "Jazz Goes to College"--performances that are characterized by in-the-moment creation and the sheer joy of discovery. Listen to Brubeck's heavy-handed bitonality and polyrhythmic thunder on "St. Louis Blues" from the Carnegie Hall date. It's in many respects dramatic and engaging but in a calculated, crowd-arousing manner that is not the case on the earlier, 1950's live recordings. Even though the other members of the rhythm section--usually Bob Bates and Joe Dodge--are clearly not marquee musicians, they're as empathetic and supportive a pair of team players as the two emerging stars could ask for.

Forget "Time Out" and go directly to "At Carnegie Hall." But on the way be sure to check out Oberlin, College of the Pacific, and those other academic venues so vital to Brubeck's and any jazz listener's education.

Average customer rating: MJQ's Blues on Bach To my mind wholly successful Fabulous Album!!!!!!!!!!!!!! INTERESTING................................. Unique and enjoyable MJQ

Blues on Bach The Modern Jazz Quartet Manufacturer: Atlantic / Wea ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Cool Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Similar Items: Modern Jazz Quartet: 1957 Fontessa The Complete Last Concert Django No Sun in Venice ASIN: B000002I6B Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

1. Regret?
2. Blues In B Flat
3. Rise Up In The Morning
4. Blues In A Minor
5. Precious Joy
6. Blues In C Minor
7. Don't Stop This Train
8. Blues In H (B)
9. Tears From The Children

Amazon.com essential recording

In the MJQ's early years, critics often found something incompatible between John Lewis's European classical leanings, particularly the baroque, and Milt Jackson's unfettered gifts improvising over bop-blues changes. This 1973 date is structured by that dichotomy, alternating between Lewis's compositions (based on some of Bach's best-known melodies) and a series of original blues, the first three by Lewis, the last by Jackson. Lewis emphasizes the contrast by playing harpsichord on the Bach tunes. His treatment of Bach can drift toward the merely pretty, as in his handling of "Sleepers Awake," but there's a genuine beauty in "Don't Stop This Train" and "Tears from the Children," based on Bach keyboard works. Jackson's fluent solos on the blues are a continuing delight, while Lewis demonstrates once again that he, too, is a musician imbued with the same roots, inserting a telling variation on "St. James Infirmary" into "Blues in A Minor."--Stuart Broomer

Customer Reviews:

MJQ's Blues on Bach.......2006-08-25

I bought the CD to replace my vinyl version, which I had not played in years, and I am so pleased to hear again the MJQ's takes on Bach classics alternating with their own compositions. This is a CD that I can listen to over cocktails and dinner as stimulating background music ... or focus on without any distractions to appreciate the artistry of the musicians and arrangements.

If you like the MJQ, this is one of their best albums; Pyramid and Concorde being my other favorites.

To my mind wholly successful.......2005-10-18

I'm a bit surprised to find myself liking this more than most reviewers, for I enjoy playing the CD with regularity. It is true that the "Bach" numbers are hardly "jazz" in the conventional sense, while the others are. But does this really matter? It seems to me that this brilliant and sensitive foursome does equally well in each of the two modes adopted, and - even more importantly - THAT THEY DO NOT JAR. To me, the tracks do offer some sort of unity, by bringing out for one thing the universality of great music, but also for another by implictly stressing how Bach was, in a sense, a precursor to jazz, and how the MJQ, even WITHIN its jazz formulation, plays music Bach would have found totally intelligible, admirable, and congenial. Enjoying this CD requires some lateral thinking! - Joost Daalder

Fabulous Album!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.......2004-06-22

I have to up-date my review! I just played this album, and heard that it really is a great album. Classical, Jazz, Blues, Vibes, MJQ, what more can you want? This album is fabulous. It holds its own, as good as classics such as Concorde, Fontessa, Django, and The Sherrif. You might not like this album. It depends on what you want, what you like, and what your looking for. If you're looking for like swinging jazz with a lot of blues influence, and melow classical melodies with a little jazz feel and tingy percussion instruments, then you'll love this album, just like I do. You have to admit though, this was a landmark recording in MJQ's history.

INTERESTING........................................2004-04-13

The Modern Jazz Quartet has always incorporated European Classical music into their lightly swining jazz. A factor that would turn some hard core jazz fans away. For me, I like their light approach to modern jazz. I feel remorsed after hearing an album like Concorde or Fontessa. On this album The MJQ rotate, classical and jazz songs, one after another. I was turned away at first, but its really a good album. Anyone who can swing Bach is a genious, and these four men are. Vibist Milt Jackson brings his blues playing to the classical stuff, John Lewis brings his classical into the jazz stuff, bassist Percy Heath, just brings us a bed to let Milt and John do that, and drummer Connie Kay, just swings delicately, but acts as a front man soloist with his creative use of percussion equitment and his drumset. I'm not going to point out any material, they're all about the same in value. A new commmer may be discouraged listening to this, but once they've heard some other ground breaking MJQ album, they'll come to love this album. I wouldn't hurry up to the store and buy this album, by the MJQ, but if you see it, pick it up.

Unique and enjoyable MJQ.......2003-06-23

Actually my rating would be about 3.5 stars. No, this is not the best MJQ material available. And no, if you're new to MJQ, don't start here -- unless you're coming to them with a classical background.

I like Bach and I like MJQ--so I had to like this one. However, I wish Lewis had done a whole CD with the Bach material and another one with the blues material, expanding each concept to a full CD of material. Each type is worth listening to and in each format Lewis and MJQ had something interesting to say. The alternating track format is, to my ears, jarring -- I'm just getting "into" Lewis doing Bach on harpsicord and we're back to the jazz/blues format. But even that doesn't stop me from enjoying the music--and it is very enjoyable, indeed.

Listening to the Bach tracks with vibes and harpsicord working the theme is good stuff! Lewis' treatment of the Bach themes is very interesting--you'll never miss the basic theme but he manages nice touches to rework and embellish. The blues/jazz tracks are stronger and begin to show what MJQ is all about.

If you're new to MJQ go get a couple others first (Fontessa would be a better starting point). Then, if you're like me and enjoy Bach and MJQ then get this one, its a natural. If you're extending a collection of MJQ then this one is worthwhile mainly because of its uniqueness.

Average customer rating: One of the most unique sounds in all of music... Rudy remaster is remarkable

Django The Modern Jazz Quartet Manufacturer: Prestige ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Bebop General | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music Cool Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Jazz | Styles | Music Modern Postbebop | Jazz | Styles | Music Similar Items: Lush Life Fontessa Modern Jazz Quartet: 1957 Relaxin' Blues on Bach ASIN: B000EMGIJ6 Release Date: 2006-03-21

Tracks:

1. Django
2. One Bass Hit
3. La Ronde Suite
4. The Queen's Fancy
5. Delaunay's Dilemma
6. Autumn In New York
7. But Not For Me
8. Milano

Amazon.com

Pianist John Lewis, vibraphonist Milt Jackson, bassist Percy Heath, and drummer Kenny Clarke were fresh from serving as the rhythm section in the Dizzy Gillespie orchestra when they went into the studio in 1953 to record--only their second session together. "Autumn in New York," which would go on to become one of the group's staple performances in concert, summarized their cameo-like pictorial strengths. The December 23, 1954 session produced two of the group's enduring masterpieces--"Django," Lewis's tribute to the then-recently deceased French gypsy guitarist, Django Reinhardt, and "One Bass Hit," with its delightfully understated exchange between Lewis and Jackson. The "La Ronda Suite" fills out a great collection. --John Swenson

Customer Reviews:

One of the most unique sounds in all of music..........2007-02-14

I agree with the reviewer below me, the sound of this remastered CD is excellent and perfect for this kind of choral jazz music. I have to say that it took me a while to really get into these guys but now I am completely hooked! To me, there has never been a group that sounds quite like these cats. I have never heard the great Percy Heath sound as good as he does on this recording. It was an absolutely, incredible performance! I'm blown away everytime I hear this album and decide to turn up the bass a bit. Man, it's a trip to see how fast and tight he is. However, the whole group led by legendary Milt Jackson really is as close to perfection as your going to get in this recording. I would have purchased this CD just to hear the song "Django"! Also, their version of "Autumn in New York" gives me such a warm, serene, feeling inside my body every time I listen to it. Yes, everytime.

Overall, this is just one of those recordings that as a jazz fan you have to own. It's a classic on anyone's list and RVG does another fantastic job as the "messenger" releasing it to sound as perfect and clear as if you were in the studio listening to it live. These guys were some kind of foursome and although I am huge fan of the horns, I still put these four at the top of my list of all-time favorite quartets. I highly recommend that if you are new to jazz and do not own this album then please purchase it immediately. You won't be disappointed!

Rudy remaster is remarkable.......2006-03-24

this ancient jazz classic never sounded better.Rudy Van Gelder did an excellent job remastering this one with the 24- bit.He proves that it does matter who takes up the task of remastering this wonderful jazz classic. just keep them coming Rudy.

Average customer rating: F.R.S A Sentimental Favorite, but Somewhat Overrated Down Home Swingin'. (no dancing please!) A Great Summation of the MJQ's career A great concert disc, and a jazz classic

The Complete Last Concert The Modern Jazz Quartet Manufacturer: Atlantic / Wea ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Bebop General | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music Cool Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Jazz | Styles | Music Cool Jazz | Live Albums | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Live Albums | Jazz | Styles | Music Similar Items: Modern Jazz Quartet: 1957 Blues on Bach Fontessa Dedicated to Connie Third Stream Music ASIN: B000002IO8 Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

1. Softly As In A Mornig Sunrise
2. The Cylinder
3. Summertime
4. Really True Blues
5. What's New
6. Blues In The Mirror
7. Confirmation
8. Round Midnight
9. Night In Tunisla
10. Tears From The Children
11. Blues In H
12. England's Carol

Tracks:

1. The Golden Striker
2. One Never Knows
3. Trav'lin
4. Skating In Central Park
5. The Legendary Profile
6. Concierto De Aranjuez
7. The Jasmine Tree
8. In Memoriam
9. Django
10. Bags Groove

Customer Reviews:

F.R.S.......2006-03-18

This is one of the greatest albums that I have ever listened to.
Each disc all the songs are great, they bring back many old memories. I'm just sorry three quarters of the band are no longer with us.

A Sentimental Favorite, but Somewhat Overrated.......2004-07-30

This is a fine album, with good to very good live versions of some classic MJQ tunes. However, the quartet's "last concert" was not really their best. At times, the music on these discs is a bit too staid and careful, and one gets the feeling that the decision to disband (temporarily, as it turned out) was motivated at least in part by a slight loss of enthusiasm for a project in which these musicians had been engaged, by 1974, for over two decades. This impression is reinforced by the inclusion, in this CD reissue, of some of the weaker material that was wisely omitted from the original 2-LP set.

The excitement the MJQ at its best generated in live performance is much better captured by the excellent "Dedicated to Connie" (ASIN B000002J4T) and "European Concert" (ASIN B000058TGY, but currently out of print). Both were recorded in Europe in 1960, when the group was at the height of its ability but still had something to prove, and both feature taut, committed performances of an intensity that "The Last Concert" doesn't quite match.

Down Home Swingin'. (no dancing please!).......2004-04-13

I'm not going to write a lot about this album; other customers have already sumed it up quite well. This album has almost no elements of slow boring classical, as one might recall albums as No Sun I Venice or Concorde, it swings just as hard as for instance, Miles Davis would. A new comer to MJQ , but not jazz will love this album!!!!!!!!

A Great Summation of the MJQ's career.......2003-08-09

If you are looking for an answer to the question what the Modern Jazz Quartet is all about, you have come to the right place. In 1974, the MJQ had been in existence for almost 20 years, and vibraharpist Milt Jackson (now sadly deceased) became tired of the somewhat rigid structure of the quartet. Thus, the MJQ decided to disband and to give one more concert at New York's Avery Fisher Hall. Here, sensing that this might really be the last time they had a chance to play these songs, the quartet gave every tune a special treatment.
The classical aspect of their music, so often likened to chamber-music, is well displayed in several tunes from their "Blues on Bach" album, but if you listen to Milt Jackson when he swirls and weaves his melody around the steady pulse by both drums and bass, you realize that this interpretation is beyond both classical music and Jazz. However, their reading of "Concierto de Aranjuez" is far closer to the original than the one done by Miles Davis on "Sketches of Spain".
Standards such as "Summertime" and "'Round Midnight", as well as tunes that recall the quartet's origin in Dizzy Gillespie's band, such as "Confirmation" and "A Night in Tunisia", are also present. But mostly the tunes are by pianist John Lewis and, with stronger leanings to the blues, by Milt Jackson. Lewis' "Skatin' in Central Park" and "One Never Knows", for example, are both lovely ballads, whereas Jackson's "Really True Blues" and "The Cylinder" are more deeply rooted in the realm of Jazz and Blues.
This only shows how much the music and the programme of the band was always built around the contrasting musical personalities of John Lewis, the quartet's musical director, and Milt Jackson, their main soloist, who embodies perfectly grace, style, time and swing at the same time. He was certainly one of the great masters of Jazz, and his at times forceful and energetic, but also often cool and crisp playing is to me the main attraction of the quartet. This edition is the first complete rendition of the now legendary concert (needless to say that they gave many more afterwards), and for that fact alone, the CD deserves six stars. If your new to the MJQ, you cannot find a better and more comprehensive collection of their playing. If you are a fan, what took you so long to get this marvellous highlight of their career? Get it!

A great concert disc, and a jazz classic.......2001-08-17

I wish I'd been there on the night of November 25, 1974 as the MJQ took the stage at Avery Fisher Hall. It was a concert that was truly a climactic end to the Modern Jazz Quartet's 22 years. (At the time it was not known that they would reassemble ten years later, albeit without as much musical interest.) John Lewis, Milt Jackson, Percy Heath and Connie Kay played their hearts out, creating some of the finest renditions of their repertoire ever. Fortunately, every note was captured in crystal-clear sound and is on this 2-CD set.

As for highlights...there are so many the whole set could just be called one continuous highlight of the quartet's legacy. But there are some standouts: the opening, disarmingly-complex "Softly As In A Morning Sunrise," the bluesy "Summertime," the funky "True Blues," the smokey "'Round Midnight" (featuring one of Milt's best solos on record for which he gets a deserved spirited ovation), the very sweet and sentimental "Skating In Central Park," the virtuostic "Blues in A minor," the delicate "One Never Knows," the energetic "Jasmine Tree," and two encores that are the group's signature pieces, "Django" and (of course!) "Bags' Groove" in what I promise you is the wildest rendition of this piece you will ever hear. All the selections have intricacy and interplay (each man knew when the other was going to breathe) beyond what can be described here. Suffice it to say these four men get textures, colors and tones that are quite unlike any other jazz group, and any other group of musicians in any genre. It's hard to appreciate today how innovative their approach was in the 1950s and 60s because so much of what they've done has become so assimilated by pop, jazz, TV and movie music, and classical. (Of course, they did a lot of assimilating of their own; it was a symbiotic relationship.)

Despite the overall high quality of music here, there are a few lowlights, and they underscore the reasons the MJQ became unglued and, frankly, *needed* to disband. They were being pushed more and more into Lewis' Third-Stream mode towards the end, and a lot of the compositions were forced and contrived. (Of course this conflict existed from the beginning, but Jackson and co. managed to actually feed off the tension. By the late 60s, though, Jackson was sounding in a rut.) I love the Third-Stream movement of music (and if you don't know what this is, go to any good music dictionary and look up "Gunther Schuller"), and wish more exploration had been done in this area (the economics made it prohibitive). But many of Lewis' "serious" compositions are, honestly, pretentious hybirds that Jackson and the others never could quite get down on. The audience applauds politely, but there's not much real enthusiasm for the sprawling and unoriginal "In Memoriam," the dry, dutiful reading of Rodrigo's famous "Concierto de Aranjuez" or the incredibly pretentious "Tears For The Children." (With a title like this you know it's going to be pretentious, and it delivers.) These tunes were kept off the original LP of this concert, and frankly, it was no loss. It's worth having here only for completeness' sake.

Still, these are but small nicks on a great masterpiece of an historic evening. If there were only a handful of jazz albums I could own, this would be one of them. (Pyramid and The Comedy would be two other MJQ albums on that list.) Of course we all know the group got back together again, but they never again made music like this.

Average customer rating: The Better of the two Not as good as version 1 in this series Same as 'Goostly Psalmes: Anglo-American Psalmody 1550-1800'

Early American Choral Music, Vol. 2 Manufacturer: Hmf Classical Exp. ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Dowland | Dowland, John | ( D ) | 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 | Renaissance (c.1450-1600) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Psalms | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Classical | Imports | Stores | Music $6.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Dowland, John | ( D ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Similar Items: Early American Choral Music, Vol. 1 Rivers of Delight (American Folk Hymns From the Sacred Harp Tradition) Wake Ev'ry Breath - Music of William Billings The Shapenote Album Lost Music of Early America: Music of the Moravians ASIN: B00005UVPB Release Date: 2002-04-09

Customer Reviews:

The Better of the two.......2006-06-03

I have both disc in the series. I liked the music on this disc much more than the first. The selections seem more focused and the sounds are much clearer. Also, the particular pieces fit better together. I love the sound of this group and hope they make more in the future.

Not as good as version 1 in this series.......2004-09-03

This is by the same group who did the wonderful & engaging Early American Choral Music 1. Somehow this CD did not live up to its predecessor in some ways. The performance is still top notch, but somehow the CD as a whole isn't quite as engaging to listen to as the first. Perhaps version 2's strength is also its weakness. Its diversity of composers allows you to pear past the shadow of William Billings and sample other notable early American hymn writers. That exposure is valuable & appreciated. I just couldn't get into it as much.

A final note: many of the texts are beautiful (and available from the publisher's web site). However, I would criticize "Who is this that cometh from Edom?" as dwelling just a bit too much on the Jews' rejection of Jesus. Among other reasons & issues, Christianity says that we are all sinners & there is no cause to single a particular group out negatively.

Same as 'Goostly Psalmes: Anglo-American Psalmody 1550-1800'.......2004-02-21

Please note this CD is a duplicate of His Majestie's Clerkes's "Goostly Psalmes: Anglo-American Psalmody 1550-1800" -- identical contents but a different name and cover. I ordered both and was irritated to discover this. This CD is cheaper, so I recommend this one. It is a lovely choral work from a little-known period of sacred music.

Average customer rating: Getz's Classical Side is a Winner Incredible 2.5 Stars: Disappointing Wow Truly hypnotic brilliance.

Focus Stan Getz Manufacturer: Polygram Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Bebop General | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music Cool Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Jazz | Styles | Music Modern Postbebop | Jazz | Styles | Music Bebop & Post-Bop | Compilations | Jazz | Styles | Music Similar Items: Serenity Anniversary! Sweet Rain People Time West Coast Jazz ASIN: B0000047CY Release Date: 1997-06-24

Tracks:

1. I'm Late, I'm Late
2. Her
3. Pan
4. I Remember When
5. Night Rider
6. Once Upon A Time
7. A Summer Afternoon
8. I'm Late, I'm Late (45 Rpm Issue)
9. I Remember When (45 Rpm Issue)

Customer Reviews:

Getz's Classical Side is a Winner.......2007-01-27

All of his life, Getz explored many avenues in music. Yes, all of Sauter's original musical score on this album sound like a film noir movie score from the 50s, but the brilliance of Getz's sound overshadows all of that. Getz's tonality is unbelievable, and "I'm Late, I'm Late" is an all-time treasure (not to mention "Night Rider"), just like "Take Five" was for Dave Brubeck. Getz just can't be remembered for the Samba stage of his life (e.g. Jobim and "Girl from Ipanema"); the "classical" side of his brilliance must shine as well. "Focus" does that for us.

Incredible.......2006-07-10

A number of reviewers do not rate this work too highly, maybe because it is at times eccentric, disjointed and very different. However, like many fine works of art, sometimes you just need to stand back, take it in for a while and slowly the appreciation blossoms. This is how I felt about 'Focus'! It starts to haunt you, sweep you along and you marvel at the ingenuity that Stan Getz brings; even though he at times is on the edge of his technique. Enjoy and immerse yourself in what is an amazing collaberation of musical rhythm and musicianship.

2.5 Stars: Disappointing.......2006-04-22

I hate to be a wet blanket thrown over very warm reviews here, but this album doesn't do much for me. It lacks the bounce and giddiness of the Jazz Samba album, the collaborative briliance of Getz/Gilberto, and the energy of Captain Marvel--all albums that I have listened to repeatedly. This one, however, I have played only 2 or 3 times. What does it sound like? It is Getz playing mostly to string accompaniment. One could call this Getz's "Sketches of Spain" album. It sounds a bit like Getz playing a musical score for a film that you are not watching. For me, the melodies--Getz's strong point--just aren't here. It is an earnest effort, to be sure, but it felt too much like noodling.

Wow.......2006-04-17

I'm a member of WBGO -- the NPR-Jazz station around NYC/NJ, and I'd just bought their 25th-Anniversary compliation of what they hailed to be 30 of the greatest tracks from Verve and Blue Note Records. I'd not listened to all of it yet, but figured that this would be good listening as I worked out. I put the second CD and started pedaling, when Night Rider came on. I had to stop and just listen. It was about the most amazing jazz tune I'd heard in awhile -- a virtuousic saxophone sailing amongst a turbulent sea of strings. After listening to that one song, I had to get the album.

Truly hypnotic brilliance........2006-02-16

Perfection is what this album is all about. Stan Getz's tone says it all ...pure and lush , full of the warmth of a summer evening. He mesmerises you. Just listen to the track "HER" ..a very emotionally moving ballad that Stan wrote in tribute to his mother. It carries you to another hemisphere, the jazz equivalent of astral travel. The feeling he puts into the tune is indescribable.
Stan Getz was a precise musician who never played a wrong note.
Masters like this only come about once in a lifetime.

Rap Music:

1. Supertramp [Original recording remastered] [Import]
2. Tested [Import]
3. Texoma
4. The Beat/Kids Are the Same
5. The Best of Tanita Tikaram [Import]
6. The Best of the Durutti Column [Import]
7. The Man
8. The Muggs
9. The Only Reason I Feel Secure [EP]
10. The Singles [Import]

Rap Music

rap music

Recommended Music:

Sunsets.02 [Import]

Arias St John Passion / Christmas Oratorio / Cantatas

Ancient Memories

Music: Gentleman Jim: 1955-1959 [Box set]

96 Tears Forever: The Dallas Reunion Tapes '84 [Live]

Annex Records Sampler Volume One

Best of Lord I Lift Your Name

Agonistic Resemblance [Explicit Lyrics]

Ao Vivo [Import] [Live]

Alfred Cortot

A Restful Day

A [Import]

All Night Long [Box set]

Belcea Quartet ~ Debussy · Dutilleux · Ravel

Wired for Sound