The Ladder [Enhanced]

Amazon.com
Thirty years and a dozen-plus personnel changes after it helped launch the English progressive rock movement, Yes bills The Ladder as a "return to form." The question is: Which form? Though opening with a sound wash and rhythmic sleight-of-hand that suggests Close to the Edge and Tales from Topographic Oceans, it soon becomes apparent that the reunited core of the band's early 70's prime (vocalist Jon Anderson, bassist Chris Squire, guitarist Steve Howe, drummer Alan White, augmented by Billy Sherwood and Igor Khoroshev on guitar and keyboard, respectively) has remembered a thing or two from Yes's metamorphosis into a pop hit-maker ("Owner of a Lonely Heart") in the 1980s without sacrificing their willingness to occasionally take their music effortlessly off the wall. (Economic adventure, if you will.) The band takes playful, virtuosic swipes at Afro-Cuban percussion, as well as jazz, funk, and classical, and even concocts an unlikely tribute to Bob Marley that sounds about as reggae-fied as, well, Yes. And if their utopian-counterculture lyrical bent remains unbowed, it now seems like a spit in the face of the overarching cynicism of the age. --Jerry McCulley

The Ladder,Yes,Beyond Records,Album Rock,Arena Rock,British Psychedelia,England,Pop,Pop/Rock,Popular Music,Prog-Rock/Art Rock,Rock,Rock/Pop

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The Ladder [Enhanced]

Average customer rating: David Gray's best so far Great CD Soulful and well done Sorry to be different but... Hauntingly Beautiful

White Ladder David Gray Manufacturer: Ato Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Indie Rock | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Welsh Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Britain | British Isles | Europe | International | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music $9.99 and Under | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Pop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Alternative Rock | 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: A New Day at Midnight Life In Slow Motion Flesh Back to Bedlam Lost Songs 95-98 ASIN: B00004Z3M3 Release Date: 2000-03-21

Tracks:

1. Please Forgive Me
2. Babylon
3. My Oh My
4. We're Not Right
5. Nightblindness
6. Silver Lining
7. White Ladder
8. This Years Love
9. Sail Away
10. Say Hello Wave Goodbye
11. Babylon II

Amazon.com's Best of 2000

David Gray's glorious fourth record explodes in a wellspring of spacious, electronica-tinged folk-pop. He uses his bright growl of a voice to memorable effect, chewing on vowel sounds while spinning odes to lost love, the resiliency of young hearts, and the pain of experience. Gray's work finds the universality at the heart of folk music and tweaks it just enough to make it relevant for alternative audiences. --Matthew Cooke

Amazon.com

English singer-songwriter David Gray recorded his fourth album, White Ladder, at home in 1998 and self-released it after three previous albums garnered critical acclaim and little else. Opening for the likes of Dave Matthews and Radiohead helped up his profile and led to Matthews choosing White Ladder as the U.S. debut for his new ATO label. It's not difficult to hear what attracted Matthews to Gray. There's a strong dose of romantic wanderlust to these tunes. "This Year's Love," with its somber piano notes, captures the drifter feel of earlier Gray work (such as the remarkable "A Gathering of Dust" from his debut)."Sail Away" is "Dock of the Bay" from another side of the shore. Gray clearly loves words, and the way he emphasizes them--spitting them out in contempt one minute, soulfully stretching a note out at other moments--lends his music drama. It's no wonder he's been compared to so heavy an improviser as Van Morrison. There's a spiritual connection there that this strong release makes only more obvious. --Rob O'Connor

Customer Reviews:

David Gray's best so far.......2007-07-04

The lyrics and music are incredible on this cd. The singer-songwriter's life experience seeps in as richness in the lyrics and in the feeling of these fine tunes. This cd has a cathartic quality to it that I usually look for in acoustic folk music. But the electronic sounds and everything really add to this cd. It's a great listen.

Great CD.......2007-06-17

This album is really great. Very mellow music, almost sad but not quite, and not whiney or a pity party like some others in the genre. David Gray's voice is great to sing a long with, and perfect for a car ride, or a night at home and a glass of wine. Virtually all the songs on this album are good, and you won't find yourself fast forwarding much.

Soulful and well done.......2007-06-08

This is an excellent album. David Gray's voice is soulful and hypnotic. When a tune is done you want to hear more. Best cuts are Babylon and Sail Away.

Sorry to be different but..........2007-04-27

I first heard this album several years ago, in 2001 in fact, and fondly remembered "Babylon" and "Please Forgive Me" ( the video to the latter is pretty cool ) so as I hear Babylon more and more on the radio I got caught up in it's beauty and ordered the whole album. My girlfriend and I agree the rest is whiny and dragging. 2 tracks does not make a whole album.

Hauntingly Beautiful.......2007-04-18

David Gray's 'White Ladder' is, quite simply, the most amazing album (CD) that I have ever owned. Each song is brilliant, and full of emotion. The entire album is superb. For the life of me, I cannot understand why we (Americans) will buy millions of copies of pop fluff, and overlook true musical genius. White Ladder was my first David Gray album, but I have gone on to buy several of his others. I am never disappointed with the depth and raw emotion that he pours into his music. David Gray is surely one of the most talented musicians of this century. Anyone who can listen to tracks like "This Year's Love" and "Night Blindness" without feeling an ache in their chests better check their pulse...

Average customer rating: A good gift for novice

Passion - Most Famous Orchestral Spectaculars [20 CD Set] Manufacturer: Delta ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Ballets | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music Dances | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Beethoven | Beethoven, Ludwig van | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Berlioz | Berlioz, Hector | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Brahms | Brahms, Johannes | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Chabrier | Chabrier, Alexis Emanuel | ( C ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Delibes, Léo | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Dvorák, Antonín | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Debussy | Debussy, Claude | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Elgar | Elgar, Sir Edward | ( E ) | Featured Composers, 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Album Description

Music can be both calming and relaxing, or invigorating and passionate...this phenomenal 20-CD set is definitely the latter. This amazing collection brings together for the first time the most passionate music of all time, from Ravel's Bolero, Tchaikovsky's Swan Lake, Wagner's Magic Fire Music to Ravel's La Valse, Orff 's Carmina Burana and Stravinsky's Rite of Spring. This is a must have collection for every passionate music lover.

Customer Reviews:

A good gift for novice.......2007-05-12

This was a good gift for somebody learning about Classical music in Japan.

Average customer rating: The perfect introduction to Ives. An Answer to the Unanswered Question brilliant idiosyncrasies Great Performances Of Ives From Bernstein And the NYPO Uniquely American Ives Recordings

Charles Ives: Symphony No. 2 / The Gong on the Hook & Ladder, or Firemen's Parade on Main Street / Tone Roads No. 1 / Hymn: Largo Cantabile, for String Orchestra / Hallowe'en / Central Park in the Dark / The Unanswered Question - Leonard Bernstein / New York Philharmonic Charles Ives , Leonard Bernstein , and New York Philharmonic Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Ives, Charles | ( I ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Ives, Charles | Composers | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Contemporary | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music Modern & 20th Century | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Deutsche Grammophon: Music | Specialty Stores | Music More Titles at Least 20% Off | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Ives, Charles | ( I ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Instrumental | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Similar Items: Ives: Symphonies Nos. 1 & 4/Hymns Ives: An American Journey Ives: The Symphonies / Orchestral Sets 1 & 2 Ives: Symphony No. 2 & Symphony No. 3/Bernstein Discusses Charles Ives Ives: Concord Sonata; Songs ASIN: B000001GC4 Release Date: 1990-07-24

Tracks:

1. Symphony No. 2: 1. Andante moderato
2. Symphony No. 2: 2. Allegro
3. Symphony No. 2: 3. Adagio cantabile
4. Symphony No. 2: 4. Lento maestoso
5. Symphony No. 2: 5. Allegro molto vivace
6. The Gong On The Hook And Ladder Or Firemen's Parade On Main Street: Allegro moderato
7. Tone Roads No. 1: Allegro
8. 'A Set Of Three Short Pieces': Hymn: Largo Cantabile
9. 'Three Outdoor Scenes': Hallowe'en
10. Central Park In The Dark: Molto adagio
11. The Unanswered Question: Largo molto sempre

Customer Reviews:

The perfect introduction to Ives........2006-08-04

In brief, this may be the best single album to jump start the novice on Ives -- and a great ride for the already converted among us. The comprehensive reviews in this thread say it all; I won't repeat. Let me add this, though: the earlier, excellent recording on Columbia (SONY) coupled with the 3rd Symphony, has a cut in the 4th movement, which Lenny opens up in this more recent recording. So, if you have the earlier recording this one is still something of a 'must have.' Buy it for that 'alternate' library of special recordings, like the Tatrai set of Bartok Quartets, Furtwangler's Beethoven Symphonies from the war years, Toscanini's recordings of OTELLO and FALSTAFF -- and Benny Goodman live at Carnegie Hall, 1938.

An Answer to the Unanswered Question.......2006-03-14

Often faced with the question from friends who are just beginning a classical music collection and want to try the 'American school' - the question being which of the many Ives recordings is a solid groundwork for understanding and appreciating Ives' importance - this is the recording I recommend. Despite the now gratefully multiple recordings of all of the works on this CD (especially the Symphony No. 2), this collection surveys Charles Ives well.

Leonard Bernstein was a champion for Ives performances both in this country and abroad. This recording shows why. His approach to Ives' work is not only diligent in his preparation of the orchestra, but it also programs a spectrum that allows each of the works to enhance the others. Here the Symphony No. 2 begins the survey, finding within the work the humor and nostalgia that abounds. And as if to recapitulate Ives' thoughts, Bernstein follows with the quirky 'The Gong on the Hook & Ladder or Firemen's Parade on Main Street', the 'Tone Roads No. 1, for chamber orchestra', a perfectly infectious 'A Set of 3 Short Pieces, for string quartet, double bass & piano',
Hallowe'en, for string quartet, piano & optional drum, the luminous 'Central Park in the Dark', and of course ends with the now American iconic 'The Unanswered Question (I & II).'

This recording may be dated in sound, but the performances remain definitive. And as for a fine introduction to both the well-known side of Ives as well as the slightly esoteric aspect of the genius' music, this well curated selection fits the bill. Highly Recommended. Grady Harp, March 06

brilliant idiosyncrasies.......2004-05-20

Ives was an uncommon, refined distillate. Much like Wallace Stevens, another Connecticut Yankee insurance specialist thoroughly out of step with his environment, Ives's structural and thematic advances foretold radical new worlds. Many liner notes to recent Ives releases talk about his work as if it were like most other orchestral offerings--in reality, few touch upon how cataclysmic and inventive his realizations were.

Bernstein, conversely, grasps Ives in totality and advances the cause of this frighteningly bold new music, both in practice and in writing at length about these scores and the Protean imagination that engendered them. Bravo, Lenny.

Great Performances Of Ives From Bernstein And the NYPO.......2003-09-02

Towards the end of Leonard Bernstein's career he made several distinguished recordings of 20th Century American classical music for Deutsche Grammophon featuring the New York Philharmonic Orchestra. This splendid recording of Ives's 2nd Symphony, several other orchestra works and chamber pieces is yet another remarkable testament to Leonard Bernstein's empathy and understanding of 20th Century American classical music composed by such distinguished composers as Charles Ives, and, of course, Aaron Copland. No other conducter truly understood 20th Century American music as well as Bernstein. Here he leads the New York Philharmonic in one thrilling performance after another, starting with Ives's 2nd Symphony in a swaggering, convincing interpretation. He follows with a hauntingly beautiful "Central Park in the Dark" and ends with an appropriately brooding "The Unanswered Question"; between the symphony and these orchestral works are sandwiched some fine chamber pieces too. Although these were recorded at live performances, the sound quality is that from a studio. Absolutely a necessary CD for admirers of Charles Ives, Leonard Bernstein, the New York Philharmonic and anyone interested in 20th Century American classical music.

Uniquely American Ives Recordings.......2002-08-09

This is great American music in the truest sense. I was nurtured on movie soundtracks and scores from the likes of Bernard Herrmann, Dimitri Tiomkin, Alex North and others. As we have lost many of these composers and music that they may have left us through the years, I have been methodically looking at American "Twentieth Century" composers from the "classical" arena to fill that void from that great era. I discovered Charles Ives after reading up on Aaron Copland and his foray into many diverse areas of musical composition. One thing leads to another. Ives' Symphony No. 2 seems to have come up very frequently. It certainly doesn't have the melodic quality of Copland yet it does seem to have roots resulting in American musical motifs very strangely orchestrated resulting in some twisted profoundness. What attracts me is how the music almost seems as if it were composed for film. The technical qualities of this recording are marvelous. Leonard Bernstein's intuitive and vibrant interpretation of this music is effectively felt.

Average customer rating: King of overtures on display Dynamic Rossini High Excitement Amuse-Bocuse for the Ears! All the Rossini I need!

Rossini: Overtures (14) Manufacturer: Decca ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Overtures | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Rossini | Rossini, Gioacchino | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music More Titles at Least 20% Off | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Rossini, Gioacchino | ( R ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Similar Items: Famous Overtures William Tell & Other Favorite Overtures Suppé: Famous Overtures Suppe: Overtures Mendelssohn: 5 Symphonies; 7 Overtures ASIN: B00000425N Release Date: 1995-06-13

Tracks:

1. Overtures: Guillaume Tell - G. Rossini
2. Overtures: Il signor Bruschino - G. Rossini
3. Overtures: Il viaggio a Reims - G. Rossini
4. Overtures: La scala di seta - G. Rossini
5. Overtures: La gazza ladra - G. Rossini
6. Overtures: Il turco in Italia - G. Rossini
7. Overtures: L'Italiana in Algeri - G. Rossini

Tracks:

1. Overtures: Il barbiere di Siviglia - Gioacchino Rossini
2. Overtures: Torvaldo e Dorliska - Gioacchino Rossini
3. Overtures: La cambiale di matrimonio - Gioacchino Rossini
4. Overtures: Otello - Gioacchino Rossini
5. Overtures: Semiramide - Gioacchino Rossini
6. Overtures: La Siege de Corinthe - Gioacchino Rossini
7. Overtures: Tancredi - Gioacchino Rossini

Amazon.com essential recording

Rossini's Overtures are absolute jewels of the Classical period. He used them as his musical "calling cards," and with the exception of William Tell, there's absolutely no relationship between the overture and opera it introduces. The famous Barber of Seville overture, for example, was used previously for two tragic operas, including one called Elizabeth, Queen of England! All they were supposed to do was entertain the audience and let them know that the real business was about to begin. And that's just what they've been doing ever since. This comprehensive collection, at two discs for the price of one, will keep you in Rossini for a good, long time. --David Hurwitz

Customer Reviews:

King of overtures on display.......2007-03-07

This 2-disc set contains 14 overtures by the master of this musical form himself, G. Rossini. The music quality is good - standard for digital, the orchestration is clear, and each CD provides about 1 hour of good, lively music. The choice of music is also great, making this set a great buy.

Dynamic Rossini.......2005-04-26

For Rossini lovers, this album gives you a sample of Rossini at his best. The dynamic range of the composer, his verve and vitality delivered in the most popular overtures ever written.
The quality of the recordings is very good, and should satify any and all Rossini fans. I love to kick back, with a set of ear phones and absorb the incredible sound and muscularity of Rossini. Well worth the price of admission.

High Excitement.......2005-03-02

I originally bought the LP versions way back before CDs were introduced. High excitement is the best way I can describe the performances. I have heard nothing since to equal Chailly's energetic read. I haven't gotten this CD version yet, but the first volume one did have better quality miking then the second volume. The price makes it worth just buying the CD instead of trying to digitize my LPs.

Amuse-Bocuse for the Ears!.......2004-09-10

Just as amuse-boche is meant to entertain and tempt the tastebuds for the coming courses in a gourmet meal, so does the overture function in the operatic banquet.

Rossini is one of the greatest overture composers, and here is collection of fourteen of his best!

They are soaring and delightful. Especially captivated by some that were new to me, causing one to want to followup with the opera-- a brilliant way to cause interest in operatic world. These included the likes of Otell, Semiramide and Le Siege de Corinthe.

Amazing and vibrant double CD collection!

All the Rossini I need!.......2003-06-30

As far as I'm concerned, I don't need to search the field for any other Rossini overture CDs--this 2-CD set has it covered. Chailly's interpretations of these pieces are wonderfully exuberant, and the National Philharmonic plays with precision and flair. These CDs have become the standard I use to judge other recordings of Rossini overtures. Granted, they're not perfect: As another reviewer pointed out, Chailly takes some passages differently than we're used to hearing them (the end of the Barber of Seville overture is faster than usual, for example). However, the orchestra is so competent and the conductor so assured that these small, occasional differences are refreshing rather than annoying. As well, there are (very) occasional moments where the orchestra slips a little out of synch, but only because they're having so much fun playing the music. This is Rossini the way it was meant to sound--playful, melodious and energetic to the end.

Average customer rating: Yes Pop FINALLY Stand together, keep the message alive. If you like Yes's Going for the one and Tormato, then you will like this Strong Pop Influence to the Classic Yes Sound

The Ladder Yes Manufacturer: Eagle Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Britain | British Isles | Europe | International | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Progressive Rock | Progressive | Rock | Styles | Music Psychedelic Rock | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Album-Oriented Rock (AOR) | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Arena Rock | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Similar Items: Magnification Tormato Drama Going for the One Union ASIN: B00069FKC8 Release Date: 2004-11-16

Tracks:

1. Homeworld (The Ladder)
2. It Will Be A Good Day (The River)
3. Lightning Strikes
4. Can I?
5. Face To Face
6. If You Only Knew
7. To Be Alive (Hep Yadda)
8. Finally
9. The Messenger
10. New Language
11. Nine Voices (Longwalker)

Customer Reviews:

Yes Pop.......2007-03-22

Quizas es que "Close to the Edge" es una obra maestra indiscutible y quizas es que todos queremos que Yes siga apegado a los conceptos musicales que hicieron que rompieran la estratosfera en los 70, pero hay que reconocer algo: con 30 y tantos anos de carrera artistica, ya Yes se ha ganado el derecho de hacer lo que les de la gana y su intencion, mas que agarrarse de lo que hicieron en el pasado, es seguir evolucionando como banda y tratando nuevas cosas, muchas de ellas nos gusten a nosotros o no.

"The Ladder" es Yes inventando con sonidos mas comerciales (a veces muy obviamente), un poco mas accesibles, pero sumamente complejos (no hay que esperar menos de estos tipos) y hasta con par de mini-epicas donde tratar de unir el viejo sonido Yes con el nuevo. Los fanaticos de "CTTE" y "Relayer" tal vez no esten muy complacidos con esto, pero musicalmente es Yes queriendo dar un paso hacia adelante. Tal vez hubieramos estado mejor sin par de baladas que andan por ahi en el disco, pero para una banda con este tiempo de trayectoria, "The Ladder" es entusiasta, lleno de buena musica y de vida, y progresivo por momentos. A estas alturas de la carrera de Yes, nosotros como fans eso es todo lo que podemos pedir.

FINALLY.......2007-02-21

I love this album. However, I have to add the song Finally is one of the best songs in Yes' entire career. Rock on fellas!

Stand together, keep the message alive........2006-11-18

Every melody on "The Ladder" is catchy and memorable. Small potatoes, you may think. But taking recent Yes history into consideration, it goes beyond just plain admiration.

The "classic" lineup (give or take certain key members) of Yes has not been consistently creative. The ABWH album from 1989 was strange and jarring. 1991's "Union" was even moreso. By the time "Open Your Eyes" came out, everyone was rolling their eyes. Just when everyone thought that Yes was running on fumes, here comes "The Ladder." Whatever the x-factor their producer brought to the table was, it was worth it.

The style of "The Ladder" is not exactly diverting or daring, it's merely Yes consolidating what's left of their 70's strengths and driving it with slick melodies and tight rhythms. I'm not saying it's perfect. Steve Howe just can't play guitar the way he used to, and Jon Anderson's lyrics threaten to become cornier as Yes gets older. But having Billy Sherwood and Igor Korochev step in was a welcome (and probably long overdue) change, as their younger perspective helped to flesh out the sound. Too bad both were asked to leave.

So in summary, "The Ladder" is not great but it's close. With the right producer and some younger musicians to compensate for the stubborness of the older members, Yes can still be capable of great things, even at the turn of the century. Let's hope they stick to their promise of telling us that we'll see perpetual change.

If you like Yes's Going for the one and Tormato, then you will like this.......2006-03-10

This recording is similar to Yes's Going for the one and Tormato recordings made in the late 70's.

That is, not as compositional as their classics in the early to mid 70's, but not a pop oriented as in the 90125, Big Generator period.

Chris Squire's bass playing stands out as does Jon Anderson's vocals.

Clearly a progressive rock album with a bit of pop touches, and not a pop album with progressive rock touches.

Strong Pop Influence to the Classic Yes Sound.......2006-01-10

The very first time I heard this CD I didn't care for it. Same for the second time. However, the third time I listened to this CD I suddenly found some of its charm. The fourth time... The point is that if you need to listen to a Yes CD several times before it begins to grow on you, then Yes did exactly what they were supposed to do. A Yes composition is never what you expect. That is the nature of Yes' brand of progressive rock.
There is always the temptation to compare the works of a long-established group against itself. Those who think that a group hit a particular formula that they should have kept and didn't will be disappointed. Those who think a group should continually evolve and instead seem to repeat the same formula over and over are disappointed. Thus we have the quandary of art and music. Fortunately, Yes has the ability to do what they want to do, and if their current incarnation matches your taste, then great; if not, then that's also great. "The Ladder" is one of those releases that is guaranteed to polarize Yes fans.

The nine selections on this CD have a wide range of variation. The songs that are more along the lines of classic Yes are "Homeworld (The Ladder)", "Finally", "It Will Be a Good Day (The River)", "The Messenger", "New Language" and "Nine Voices (Longwalker)".

Each of these songs is worthy of being a Yes progressive rock song. There are clearly some pop influences, but each is recognizably Yes. "It Will Be a Good Day (The River)" sounds similar to some of the music from "Union". "The Messenger" starts with a very blues-sounding bass guitar. The lyrics are Jon Anderson's typical new age mysticism (what would a Yes album be without such songs!). The song reminds me of "Talk" and "Union", and perhaps "90125". A classic Yes-style composition.

"New Language" starts as a rocking composition, fast-paced, a throwback to early Yes. While there are periodic pop influences, the progressive shows through in multiple locations. Very heavy reliance on guitars throughout, punctuated by a firm drum beat, and add keyboards for spice. A very solid Yes song.

"Nine Voices" is another Yes song in the tradition of Yes songs. This song can remind one of "Your Move" and, perhaps, just a touch, of "Wondrous Stories". The harmonies are classic Yes, as are the beautifully orchestrated instruments. One of the better songs on this CD.

The other selections are a varied brew. "Lightning Strikes" starts strangely, but the song then turns into a pop song (I'm not kidding). While the song is not the strongly progressive for which we love Yes so much, as pop songs go, it is good. Remember that "90125" also had pop songs as well, which also worked just as well.

"Can I?" I love. If you remember Eddie Murphy singing on the train in "Trading Places", you'll get a flavor of this song. It's got a bit of African or perhaps reggae flavor to it. "Face to Face" starts sounding like typical Yes progressive rock, and then changes to a pop love song. Again, a good song, just not what you would expect from Yes.

"To Be Alive (Hep Yadda)" again reminds me a bit of Union, perhaps with more pop than Eastern influences. However, as the song progresses, it become pure repetitive pop. I must admit that while I'm a big fan of Yes, this song stretches my liking of Yes to the limit. This song may appeal to fans of modern pop or bubble gum, but is likely to annoy long-time Yes fans.

This album, which brings together so many of the classic members of Yes, is good, but uneven in spots. If I could take an electronic knife and excise some of the cuts, I think the album would have been more coherent and more in the tradition of classic progressive Yes. However, Yes gets to choose their own music, and this is what they chose. A worthy addition to any Yes collection, but with the exception of a few cuts, not among their best.

Average customer rating: Centering and healing Time for Ladder of the Soul #2 beautiful music, beautifully played My Heartfelt Review for "The Ladder of the Soul" The Most Beautiful Music

The Ladder of the Soul - Improvisations for Relaxation, Meditation, & Integration Paul Baker Manufacturer: Vocal Integration Concepts ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Celtic New Age | New Age | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music Meditation | New Age | Styles | Music Relaxation | New Age | Styles | Music New Age | Celtic | International | Styles | Music Fusion | Celtic | International | Styles | Music General | Alternative Rock | Indie Music | Stores | Music General | New Age | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Tranquil Harp: Improvisations for Relaxation, Meditation, Integration The Healer's Way: soothing music for those in pain, Vol. I Healing from the harp The Healers Way: Calming Music For Anxiety Vol. II Harp Of The Healing Light ASIN: B00005MCVL Release Date: 2001-06-15

Tracks:

1. Awakening
2. Acceptance
3. Understanding
4. Compassion
5. Forgiveness
6. Loving
7. Grace
8. Transcendence

Album Description

Peaceful relaxation and meditation music performed on the Celtic harp by master harpist Paul Baker. Following in the tradition of “The Tranquil Harp”, “The Ladder of the Soul” presents eight improvisations in keys corresponding to the energy centers of the body. The improvisations are designed to ground your body, open and tune your mind, balance your emotions and soothe your spirit. The pure and ancient sound of the harp, sometimes called “the ladder between earth and heaven”, is ideal for relaxation, meditation and integration. Each track is provided with a suggested meditation.

Customer Reviews:

Centering and healing.......2007-02-22

This healing music can be used with babies, little children, and testy adults! Paul Baker's unique inovative style provides wonderful, soothing sounds that can be used for meditation or to create a quiet space.

Time for Ladder of the Soul #2.......2006-04-11

Beautiful throughout. Mr. Baker, your music is wonderful. I feel totally peaceful while stretching the morning. It' time for another masterpiece.

beautiful music, beautifully played.......2005-03-30

Lovely music, not only played with great skill by Paul Baker, but also music whose heart and sincerity of compassion shines through. Not overly simplistic like some massage music, but rather with real musical interest and beauty.

My Heartfelt Review for "The Ladder of the Soul".......2004-05-23

I am continually amazed by the healing power of music. Especially harp music. As those who know me know, my healing from a debilitating stroke came about in large part due to the improvisational healing harp of one man: Paul Baker.

Mr. Baker is such a talented person. He could have chosen to record albums using his vast knowledge and technique on the large and impressive concert harp, piano, or organ. However, for posterity, he chose to record improvisations for healing on the smaller and more personal celtic harp.

How does one capture the essence of such music in words? His two albums, "The Tranquil Harp" and "The Ladder of the Soul" are groundbreaking in their simplicity and breadth. And each one has its own unique place in my life.

"The Tranquil Harp" helped me most in my physical healing. Its music is very basic, simple, and gentle. It has brought, and continues to bring, growth and strength to every part of my physical being. To play it is to bathe in regeneration and light.

"The Ladder of the Soul" continues this healing on the emotional and spiritual planes. It connects our essence to the divine in such a way that we emerge purer and more aware of our true being and purpose in this life. This is real health. Divine health. What a gift to be brought to us by one man. This album is so aptly named as it proves that the harp truly is "the ladder between earth and heaven," connecting us to the divine safely and lovingly.

Thank you, Mr. Baker, for sharing yourself in such a way that allows all of us to unfold in ourselves and in the world with true happiness and peace.

The Most Beautiful Music.......2002-03-19

The Ladder of the Soul has become my favorite CD of all, and with good reason. I love this CD! It`s the most beautiful relaxing music I have ever listened to. If you have a stressful job or just want to unwind this is the CD for you. A cup of tea with Paul Baker is a peaceful way to end any day.

Average customer rating: Very Pleased Tear jerker Not Paid Enough! Wonderful Movie, Soundtrack Awesome AWESOME MOVIE WITH AWESOME MUSIC

Ladder 49 Various Artists Manufacturer: Hollywood Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music Movie Scores | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Similar Items: Backdraft Ladder 49 (Widescreen Edition) Storyville Robbie Robertson Rescue Me ASIN: B0002ZMJFM Release Date: 2004-09-28

Tracks:

1. Shine Your Light - Robbie Robertson
2. As I'm Leaving - David Gray
3. Fire - The Ohio Players
4. How To Dream - Sam Phillips
5. Cannonball - The Breeders
6. Orange Sky - Alexi Murdoch
7. You And Me - Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers
8. Reflection-Adagio - Robbie Robertson
9. If I Should Fall From Grace With God - The Pogues
10. Love Sneakin' Up On You - Bonnie Raitt
11. Twice As Hard - The Black Crowes
12. Big Sweet Life - Jon Dee Graham
13. William Ross - A Call To Courage

Amazon.com

While films like Back Draft have celebrated the spectacular danger and courageous work that America's firefighters face every day, director Jay Russell's tale of a Baltimore ladder company is more interested in the character of the men that dedicate their lives to saving others. The film's character study nature has inspired a song-based soundtrack that variously evokes introspection (David Gray's "As I'm Leaving", "How to Dream" by Sam Phillips) and differences of generation (The Breeders' rollicking "Cannonball," "Twice as Hard" by Black Crowes, Tom Petty's "You and Me" and ethnicity (The Pogues' "If I Should Fall From Grace With God", composer William Ross' richly textured underscore extract), all of it grounded in a rock solid working class ethos embodied by Bonnie Raitt's "Love Sneakin' Up On You". Of special note is Robbie Robertson's heart-on-its-sleeve ballad "Shine Your Light," the first song the Band founder and rock legend has written expressly for a motion picture. Robertson also contributes the film's moody, Celtic-tinged instrumental end title piece, "Reflections/Adagio." --Jerry McCulley

Customer Reviews:

Very Pleased.......2005-09-21

I just received my copy of the Ladder 49 soundtrack, and I couldn't be happier. What beautiful music! Every song that I loved from the movie is on the CD. Robbie Robertson's "Shine Your Light" gives me goosebumps. It's such an inspirational song. How can you not love "Fire" from The Ohio Players. "As I'm Leaving" and "You and Me" are great. I was also suprised to see "A Call to Courage" on there. It plays at the beginning of the movie, and it's very powerful. If you enjoyed the movie, you should get the soundtrack. You won't be disapointed.

Tear jerker.......2005-09-06

I bawled my eyes out when I watched the movie "Ladder 49". Then when I listened to the soundtrack, my eyes watered with the memory of the movie.

This is a great soundtrack. The theme song, "Shine Your Light" is such a moving song. It's one of those songs you can't get tired of. It's uplifting, as well as providing a rememberance for the simple things in life. Life itself.

Not Paid Enough!.......2005-08-09

I watched Laddar 49 and I have friends who were involved in 9/11 who were firefighters and watching the movie "Laddar 49" was like being with real firefighters..These guys aren't paid enough for what they do..Stop paying these prima-dona baseball,. basketball and the rest millions of dollars a season..Pay these firemen what they're worth and more!

Wonderful Movie, Soundtrack Awesome.......2005-06-06

This soundtrack is wonderful. It contains a wide variety of music, yet they all fit together. The main song by Robbie Robertson is amazing.
See this movie, and then buy the soundtrack. You won't regret it.

AWESOME MOVIE WITH AWESOME MUSIC.......2005-04-11

i cried my eyes out during this movie! it is so moving and it touches you heart in a special way. my favorite song on the soundtrack is shine your light because the lyrics are so poetic and fit so well with the movie. if you haven't already seen this movie then you must!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I LOVE IT SOOOO MUCH
if you like this movie then you wil live " The Notebook"!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
bring the tissues cause you might bawl your eyes out during both movies(just like I did)
it's movies like this which keep the movie industry open!

Average customer rating:

Rossini: Greatest Hits Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Ballets | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Respighi | Respighi, Ottorino | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Rossini | Rossini, Gioacchino | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Overtures | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Ballets & Dances | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Cleveland Orchestra | ( C ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music London Philharmonic Orchestra | ( L ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music New York Philharmonic Orchestra | ( N ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra | ( V ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | 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 CDs $7 - $10 | Operas | Opera & Vocal | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Operas | Opera & Vocal | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music 4-for-3 Classical | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Liszt: Greatest Hits Greatest Hits: Bizet Verdi: Greatest Hits Schubert: Greatest Hits Greatest Hits-Strauss ASIN: B000002A9O Release Date: 1995-06-13

Tracks:

1. The Barber Of Seville: Overture
2. The Barber Of Seville: Largo al factotum
3. The Barber Of Seville: Una voce poco fa
4. La gazza ladra: Overture
5. La boutique fantasque (The Magic Toy Shop): Tarantella
6. The Barber Of Seville: Dunque io son
7. La scala di seta: Overture
8. L'Italiana in Algeri: Overture
9. Semiramide: Overture
10. William Tell: Dance for Six
11. William Tell: Overture

Average customer rating: Excellent performance and recording Very Nice Sparkling Performances

Rossini: Complete Overtures Manufacturer: Umvd Labels ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Romantic | Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Incidental Music | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Overtures | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Marriner, Sir Neville | ( M ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Rossini | Rossini, Gioacchino | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Similar Items: Tchaikovsky: Complete Suites for Orchestra Saint-Saëns: Les 5 Symphonies Debussy, Ravel: Orchestral Works Mendelssohn: 5 Symphonies; 7 Overtures Vivaldi: The Masterworks (Box Set) ASIN: B00009KV0W Release Date: 2003-08-12

Customer Reviews:

Excellent performance and recording.......2007-02-02

If you like Rossini, this is an a must-have recording. Sure, he tended to write the same pieces over and over again, but they are utterly delightful. These performances by Neville Marriner and his personal orchestra are precise, and the fun inherent in many of these works does not get lost in the shuffle. The orchestra is blessed with excellent woodwind players; just listen to the oboe on some of the really fast passages.

Nice recorded sound. I really don't have anything bad to say about this entire package. It's almost a desert island recording for times where Mahler or Beethoven might be a little (or a lot) heavy.

Very Nice.......2005-03-17

Yes, these overtures may be cliched, but every classical collector should probably have them. Marriner, as usual, gives great performances, and the sound quality is very good.

Sparkling Performances.......2003-09-15

I only have glowing things to say about this set of Rossini overtures. First of all, Rossini's overtures are brilliant gems. They are light, fun and full of life!! Secondly, Marriner's conducting is marvellous. The performance sparkle like precious diamonds. Everything is very enjoyable, there's not a single boring number, unlike many other discs you purchase. And to top it off, it comes at a terrific bargain price. 3 very full CDs - 75 mins, 30 mins and 65 mins - of top notch music at seven dollars a piece is incredible.

Average customer rating: An uplifting experience One of the best, and latest, of the Robeson recordings... Paul Robeson Live New version available in UK Question

Paul Robeson Live at Carnegie Hall Manufacturer: Vanguard Records 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 Beethoven | Beethoven, Ludwig van | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Dvorák, Antonín | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Mussorgsky | Mussorgsky, Modest | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Schubert | Schubert, Franz | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Romantic | Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | 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 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 Robeson, Paul | ( R ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Cantatas | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romances | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Russian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Cantatas | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Chants | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Folk Songs | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Gospel | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music Traditional Vocal Pop | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music Traditional Pop | Oldies | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Ballad for Americans Songs of Free Men/ A Paul Robeson Recital Ol' Man River: His 25 Greatest Spirituals Paul Robeson - Here I Stand ASIN: B000000EFU Release Date: 1990-05-24

Tracks:

1. Every Time I Feel The Spirit
2. Balm in Gilead
3. Volga Boat Song
4. Monologue From 'Othello'
5. O Thou Silent Night
6. Chinese Children's Song
7. My Curly Headed Baby
8. Old Man River
9. Going Home
10. Monologue From 'Boris Godunov'
11. The Orphan
12. Christ Lag In Todesbanden
13. Didn't My Lord Deliver Daniel
14. Lullaby
15. O No John
16. Joe HIll
17. Jacob's Ladder
18. Chassidic Chant
19. Freedom
20. O Grieve You Now My Mother
21. This Is The Hammer
22. All Men Are Brothers

Customer Reviews:

An uplifting experience.......2006-12-05

If one takes into account the time at which this recording was made, and the surrounding events affecting his life, one can truly appreciate the significance of this album. Experiencing oppression not only from the U.S. but later the Canadian government to travel abroad, Robeson was impeded, but not prevented from singing in the name of peace, human rights, and the rights of the common worker. Victory was at hand when on May, 9 1958, the date of this recording, Paul Robeson announced that his passport battle had been won. This is the recording of a triumphant gentleman, a loving, ecstatic audience, and very importantly, a talented and very attuned pianist (Alan Booth). With this in mind one can more greatly appreciate how special this concert was. The magic of this recording trancends Robeson's impeccable singing. It is the concert as a whole that makes it so spectacular. Listen to 'Joe Hill', think of Robeson's battle, and hear why it is so powerful. Or listen to 'O No John', Alan Booth pounding the keys on the last notes, and the audience's response. Every person in Carnegie Hall was riveted. Well worth the price, and an uplifting experience.

One of the best, and latest, of the Robeson recordings..........2006-10-17

This concert came along in 1958, when Paul's passport was restored and he was allowed to travel and make a living again, after several years of being on the Communist blacklist. His joy at performing once more for his traditional audience comes through in every track. That same year, he did a concert at his brother's church in Harlem, and when Columbia Records issued that one, it had another winner. Not long after those shows, Paul went overseas for five years, suffering a health crisis that brought him back to America in 1963, broken down and unable to perform consistently. He spent his last decade or so of life on the sidelines, living quietly with his sister in Philadelphia. This concert, then, along with the one at Mother Zion Church, is one of the final triumphs of one of the most interesting American lives. We know now that Paul's stubborn support of the Soviet Union in the Stalin era was a tragic flaw in his character, but he had magnificent gifts of voice and of acting presence, and had he come to the attention of audiences in 1957 instead of 1927, he would likely have earned millions as a singer and actor, and his political and social radical activism would have been a much smaller impediment to his career. If you already own some Robeson recordings, add this one because it represents him at the beginning of what was then "old age." If you own none, this concluding album is actually a fine starting point, because his earlier work suffers a bit from the primitive recording technology of the '30's and '40's.

Paul Robeson Live.......2006-07-11

Of course his baritone is fabulous. His rendition of Joe Hill is unforgettable - this was a song he sang for the builders' labourers on the site of the Sydney Opera House in around 1969 -also Old Man River, which he made his own. He should have sung this in the film of the musical Showboat but he was passed over for an inferior voice by the producers because he was a member of the Communist Party. A pity. He also sings some gospel on this CD, I'm not mad about religious songs but if you like them then you'll love this.

New version available in UK.......2006-02-18

This version is now redundant as Vanguard has released a version in 2005 with the original album cover for the first time and with new sleeve notes. The sound is also better. I purchased it from amazon.co.uk.

Question.......2005-09-29

I would like to buy Paul Robeson CD with "Old Man River" and "Kevin Barry (Irish)"

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