Complete Recordings [Original recording remastered] [Import]

Complete Recordings [Original recording remastered] [Import]

Complete Recordings [Original recording remastered] [Import]

ASIN: B0002UJKL8

Track Listings
 
1. Autumn Leaves
2. Four
3. On The Trail
4. Stardust/Old Folks
5. On Green Dolphin Street
6. Theme
7. Autumn Leaves
8. Straight No Chaser
9. Days Of The Wine & Roses
10. What Is This Thing Called Love?
11. If You Could See Me Now
12. On A Clear Day (You Can See Forever)
13. Limehouse Blues
14. Pfrancing
15. Theme
16. Char's Blues

Editorial Reviews
Product Description
Remastered reissue for the acclaimed jazz trio. Lonehill Jazz. 2004.

Complete Recordings,Wynton (Trio) (Ft Joe Henderson) Kelly,Lonehill Jazz,Jazz
The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers - The Complete Recordings
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Amazing!
  • Excellent recording and two formats
  • The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers - The Complete Recordings
  • A bit pricey but well worth the coin!
  • AN ABSOLUTE MASTER PIECE
 The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers - The Complete Recordings
Howard Shore and The London Philharmonic Orchestra
Manufacturer: Reprise / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. The Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Ring - The Complete Recordings
  2. The Children of Húrin
  3. The Lord of the Rings Trilogy (Theatrical and Extended Limited Edition)
  4. Pan's Labyrinth
  5. Casino Royale

ASIN: B000IZJZIK
Release Date: 2006-11-07

Tracks:

  1. Glamdring
  2. Elven Rope
  3. Lost in Emyn Muil
  4. My Precious
  5. Ugluk's Warriors
  6. Three Hunters
  7. Banishment of mer
  8. Night Camp
  9. Plains of Rohan
  10. Fangorn
  11. Dead Marshes
  12. "Wraiths on Wings"
  13. Gandalf the White
  14. Dreams of Trees
  15. Heir of Numenor
  16. Ent-Draught

Tracks:

  1. Edoras
  2. Court of Meduseld
  3. Theoden King
  4. King's Decision
  5. Exodus from Edoras
  6. Forests of Ithilian
  7. One of the Dunedain
  8. Wolves of Isengard
  9. Refuge at Helm's Deep
  10. Voice of Saruman
  11. Arwen's Fate
  12. Story Foretold
  13. Sons of the Steward
  14. Rock and Pool
  15. Faramir's Good Council

Tracks:

  1. Aragorn's Return
  2. War Is Upon Us
  3. "Where Is the Horse and the Rider?"
  4. Host of the Eldar
  5. Battle of the Hornburg
  6. Breach of the Deeping Wall
  7. Entmoot Decides
  8. Retreat
  9. Master Peregrin's Plan
  10. Last March of the Ents
  11. Nazgtack
  12. Thon Rides Forth
  13. Tales That Really Matter
  14. "Long Ways to Go Yet"

Tracks:

  1. Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers [Complete Score][Multimedia Track]

Album Description

The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers film's entire score composed, orchestrated, conducted, and produced by Howard Shore. The set encompasses three CDs plus a DVD-audio disc featuring the score in four superior sound configurations.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Amazing!.......2007-07-07

This is a must have for any Lord of the Rings fan or even any fan of music in general. I fell in love with the score to this beautiful trilogy and this complete set is perfect. I can't wait for the third installment!

5 out of 5 stars Excellent recording and two formats.......2007-06-12

As of recent, I have starting collecting again film music and the Lord of the Rings complete recordings was a natural.

The sound quality is very good and the packaging would make any collector of Lord of the Rings memorabilia quite happy. (I am not a collector but still appreciate the packaging.)

Contained in the package are cds with the tracks which I aptly moved to my computer in lossless format and also a DVD. The DVD turns out to be the entire collection of the CDS presented in DVD format with a menu. - Nice touch.

While I can't tell the difference of quality between the CDs and the DVD, I like the DVD set up when I want music in the background while I am working away.

Overall, a terrific collection and some my be disuaded by the price but I found this to be a particularly good set of recordings and well worth the cost.

Both "Two Towers" and "the Fellowship" are available and I'll wait for the 3rd to become available later (hopefully).

Let's be clear here - quality recordings, two formats provided, nice packaging for those that need it and a little costly. I can live with the latter and enjoy the music as anticipated.

4 out of 5 stars The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers - The Complete Recordings.......2007-05-09

onl for collector..

5 out of 5 stars A bit pricey but well worth the coin!.......2007-04-26

Before viewing The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, I didn't think that anyone with great skill was composing music in the classical, romantic period style, anymore. I stand corrected! Howard Shore's music for the three LOTRs movies just blew me away. I rarely buy movie soundtracks because the soundtracks, divorced from the movie, don't stand up as well crafted pieces of music, on their own. If you have decent speakers, in your home theater set up, and a player that decodes 5.1 DVD-Audio soundtracks (I have a player that decodes both high end audio formats: SACD and DVD-A.) The sountrack on the DVD-A disk (5.1 channel, 3D sound!!), is phenominal! The use of the human voice as both a musical instrument and in songs to convey a message is something that I especially like in classical music and is iceing on the cake in Howard Shore's compositions. That he wrote music to take advantage of the vocal skills, of each individual vocalist, is one example of many where Howard Shore went the extra mile in composing his musical masterpieces for each movie.

5 out of 5 stars AN ABSOLUTE MASTER PIECE.......2007-03-14

Howard Shore is becoming one of the better cinema composers of all time. And the complete recordings of The Lord of the Rings movies are absolute masterpieces.
The Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Ring - The Complete Recordings
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Beautiful
  • Awesome
  • Excellent Music tracks from Movie
  • Complete?
  • Great Collection, Poor Packaging
 The Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Ring - The Complete Recordings
Howard Shore
Manufacturer: Reprise / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers - The Complete Recordings
  2. Ringers - Lord of the Fans
  3. The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
  4. The Lord of the Rings Sketchbook
  5. The Lord of the Rings Trilogy (Theatrical and Extended Limited Edition)

ASIN: B000BNI90O
Release Date: 2005-12-13

Tracks:

  1. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring/Prologue: One Ring ...
  2. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring/The Shire
  3. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring/Bag End (Featuring ...)
  4. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring/Very Old Friends
  5. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring/Flaming Red Hair
  6. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring/Farewell Dear Bilbo
  7. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring/Keep It Secret, Keep ...
  8. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring/A Conspiracy Unmasked
  9. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring/Three Is Company
  10. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring/The Passing of the Elves
  11. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring/Saruman the White
  12. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring/A Shortcut to Mushrooms
  13. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring/Strider
  14. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring/The Nazgul ...

Tracks:

  1. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring/Weathertop
  2. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring/The Caverns of Isengard
  3. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring/Give Up the Halfling
  4. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring/Orthanc
  5. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring/Rivendell
  6. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring/The Sword That Was ...
  7. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring/The Council of ...
  8. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring/The Great Eye
  9. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring/Gilraen's Memorial
  10. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring/The Pass of Caradhras
  11. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring/The Doors of Durin
  12. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring/Moria
  13. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring/Gollum
  14. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring/Balin's Tomb

Tracks:

  1. Khazad-Dum
  2. Caras Galadhon (featuring Lament for Gandalf, performed by Elizabeth Fraser)
  3. The Mirror of Galadriel
  4. The Fighting Uruk-hai
  5. Parth Galen
  6. The Departure of Boromir
  7. The Road Goes Ever On (part 1)
  8. May It Be (composed and performed by Enya)
  9. The Road Goes Ever On (part 2. featuring In Dreams, perfomed by Edward Ross)
  10. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring/Khazad-D
  11. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring/Caras Galadhon ...
  12. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring/The Mirror of Galadriel
  13. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring/The Fighting Uruk-Hai
  14. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring/Parth Galen
  15. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring/The Departure of Boromir
  16. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring/The Road Goes Ever ...
  17. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring/May It Be
  18. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring/The Road Goes Ever ...

Amazon.com

As fans of Peter Jackson's Lord of the Rings trilogy know, each film exists in two versions: the theatrical one and the extended one that appeared on DVD. This luxurious box set--which also comes with a detailed essay on the movie's musical themes--features the full extended score, so many cues not on the CDs of the individual movies are included. Granted, the majority of listeners will be perfectly happy with the shorter versions of the scores--it's a safe bet that most people can live without hearing, say, Ian McKellen's 35-second-long ditty "The Road Goes Ever On" at the beginning of "Bag End," or Viggo Mortensen's performance of his own composition, "The Song of Lúthien," within the track "The Nazgûl." But if you're a completist and/or a devotee of Howard Shore's pounding tympani and overwhelming choral compositions (featured particularly prominently on disc 3, a large chunk of which is devoted to a battle scene), then this set is a dream come true. Audiophiles should note that the fourth disc, a DVD, offers the score in Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound. Fire up those speakers so the whole shire can hear. --Elisabeth Vincentelli

Album Description

An epic film score receives epic treatment with The Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Ring/Complete Recordings. Released for the first time on CD, the complete score for the first film in the Lord of the Rings trilogy contains more than 180 minutes of music on three CDs plus a DVD-Audio disc of the entire score in Surround Sound. Breathtaking and majestic, the 2001 Oscar and Grammy winning score compsted by Howard Shore also includes Enya's Oscar nominated "May It Be." For fans of any of The Lord of the Rings films, the Fellowship of the Ring/Complete Recordings is an essential experience.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Beautiful.......2007-06-15

I picked up this set because I am both a LOTR fan, movies and books and I need music to help me work. There are some tracks that I skipped over, like the short little ditties in the bar, but many of the songs, such as the Elvish chants are easy to get lost in - its just too bad they don't last longer. The packaging really is well done, though the DVD disc was loose when I received it in the mail, but unharmed. I will have to wait until the price on the second set comes down a little more, but I can't wait for ROTK.

5 out of 5 stars Awesome.......2007-06-12

This is by far the editon to get if you loved the lord of the rings soundtrack. It has every song on it from the extended edition. and the DVD-A version is very nice.

5 out of 5 stars Excellent Music tracks from Movie.......2007-05-03

Brings the movie back as you listen to the full version of the track.

3 out of 5 stars Complete?.......2007-04-07

This CD collection is wonderful; it has much of the material from the movie that was only included in the extended edition DVD, but it is far from complete. While it does have the complete version of "The Passing of the Elves" and two versions of "The Road Goes Ever On", many of the songs are highly incomplete and inferior to the originals. "Aniron," the theme for Aragorn and Arwen performed by Enya, is incomplete and the lyrics are hard to match to what is being sung. The sound quality for this song is even worse on the accompanying DVD, which is supposed to have all of the music in "superior sound". The song "Prophecy" is reduced to two barely-audible lines and "May It Be" is shortened and different than the original. $60 for this when there are more complete songs on the original soundtrack is ridiculous.

3 out of 5 stars Great Collection, Poor Packaging.......2007-04-03

I realy can't add to what others have said about this set, the music is simply the best LOTR soundtrack collection out there! It is all here, and the contents of this set will make any LOTR fan happy and the music DVD is a great one disc addition if you want to hear the entire score in one sitting (to which I have done a number of times already).
My only complaint is the somewhat flimsy cardboard box that houses the contents of this musical treasure. Mine came damaged, and considering the price, I expected better packaging. This is a minor quabble on my part and NO, I havent returned it due to the fact that the music itself Is what I truly treasure, It just would have been nicer to have recieved it undamaged.

Music-5
Packaging-3

*for the record I had rated this Item 5 stars not the 3 stars that is showing at the top of my review*
The Original: Complete Studio Recordings
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Fresh from the fifties
  • Great Jazz
  • A Neglected Master and his greatest group
  • A great set of tunes
 The Original: Complete Studio Recordings
Chico Hamilton Quintet
Manufacturer: Lone Hill Jazz
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Jazz | Styles | Music
JazzJazz | Imports | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Man from Two Worlds
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  5. The Dealer

ASIN: B000ERU98C
Release Date: 2006-03-13

Tracks:

  1. Nice Day
  2. My Funny Valentine
  3. Blue Sands
  4. Sage
  5. Morning After
  6. Jonalah
  7. Chrissie
  8. Wind
  9. Gone Lover (When Your Lover Has Gone)
  10. Ghost
  11. I Want to Be Happy [Live][*]
  12. Spectacular [Live][*]
  13. Free Form [Live][*]
  14. Walking Carson Blues [Live][*]
  15. Buddy Boo [Live][*]
  16. Stella by Starlight [Live][*]
  17. Bark for Barksdale [Live][*]

Album Description

The original Chico Hamilton Quintet was one of the last significant West Coast jazz bands of the cool era. Consisting of Buddy Collette on reeds (flute, clarinet, alto, and tenor), guitarist Jim Hall, bassist Carson Smith, and the drummer/leader, the most distinctive element in the group's identity was cellist Fred Katz. The band could play quite softly, blending together elements of bop and classical music into their popular sound and occupying their own niche. Most of these performances were formerly quite rare and never reissued before. Highly recommended to jazz historians and to listeners who enjoy classic cool jazz. Packaged in a Digipak. Lone Hill Jazz. 2006.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Fresh from the fifties.......2007-05-10

The Chico Hamilton Quintet sounds as cool and fresh as ever, showing characteristic inventiveness in instrumental textures, rhythm, counterpoint - suave and refined.

5 out of 5 stars Great Jazz .......2007-03-21

When I was in Collage I listen to a Jazz radio station in Long Beach California. (The Jazz Knob) There was a program called "Sleepy's Hollow" which introduced me to Chico Hamiltion. I then bought this album and many others to follow. Over the years I lost in moving my whole collection of 50's jazz. Now with this purchase I have finally able to enjoy the music of my college days. This smooth jazz features Chico on drums using only the solf mallets. I have never forgotten "Blue Sands" and "My Funny Valentine" and now enjoy them again.

5 out of 5 stars A Neglected Master and his greatest group.......2007-03-09

There have been several Chico Hamilton Quintets, all including wonderful musicians, but to my ears, this is the very best. A young Jim Hall on guitar, Buddy Collette on reeds, Carson Smith originally on bass, Chico on drums and Fred Katz on cello. Cello? Yeah, jazz cello. Soft, understated, melodic and yet hard swinging music all the time. Chico was a great drummer and we all know that Jim Hall became one of the absolute greatest guitarists in the history of jazz. If you love jazz, buy this CD. If you love warm melodic music, buy this CD. If you love fantastic mood music, buy this CD. Okay, just buy this CD. It is one of the great ones.

5 out of 5 stars A great set of tunes.......2007-01-22

I heard an excerpt from this CD on NPR one morning...had to pull over and write down the artist. Ordered it at my first opportunity, and have enjoyed every listening moment. If you like jazz, this is a great choice!
Cats: Complete Original Broadway Cast Recording (1982 Original Broadway Cast)
Average customer rating: 3 out of 5 stars
  • Disappointed
  • Splendid remastering with minor libretto editorial quibbles
 Cats: Complete Original Broadway Cast Recording (1982 Original Broadway Cast)
Andrew Lloyd Webber , Stanley Lebowsky , Cats Pit Orchestra , Anna McNeely , Betty Buckley , Bonnie Simmons , Christine Langner , Cynthia Onrubia , Harry Groener , Ken Page , Robert Hoshour , and Cats (Related Recordings)
Manufacturer: Decca Broadway
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Musical TheaterMusical Theater | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
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GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
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The Decca Records StoreThe Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Cats - The Musical (Commemorative Edition)
  2. Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats, Illustrated Edition
  3. Titanic (1997 Original Broadway Cast)
  4. Oklahoma! (1955 Film Soundtrack)
  5. The Phantom of the Opera (Original 1986 London Cast)

ASIN: B000BSM28E
Release Date: 2006-05-23

Tracks:

  1. Overture
  2. Prolugue: Jellicle Songs For Jellicle Cats
  3. The Naming Of Cats
  4. The Invitation To The Jellicle Ball
  5. The Old Gumbie Cat
  6. The Rum Tum Tugger
  7. Grizabella: The Glamour Cat
  8. Bustopher Jones
  9. Mungojerrie And Rumpelteazer
  10. Old Deuteronomy
  11. The Jellicle Ball
  12. Grizabella: The Glamour Cat

Tracks:

  1. The Moments Of Happiness
  2. Gus: The Theatre Cat
  3. Growltiger's Last Stand
  4. Skimbleshanks: The Railway Cat
  5. Macavity: The Mystery Cat
  6. Mr. Mistoffelees
  7. Memory
  8. The Journey To The Heaviside Layer
  9. The Ad-dressing Of Cats

Customer Reviews:

1 out of 5 stars Disappointed.......2007-05-11

I thought I had ordered the one with the actors as cats, but this was just music. i didn't discover until I had played it, and after reading your return policy on opened merchandise, I kept it because I did not want to take the loss of money in reurning it to you.

5 out of 5 stars Splendid remastering with minor libretto editorial quibbles.......2007-01-01

As a devoted fan of CATS and this recording of this wonderful musical, I am very thrilled that Lord Lloyd-Webber has released this wonderfully remastered version of the recording. This review isn't about the performances, as I have sung their praises elsewhere. Rather I'd use this review to praise the remastering. The original Geffen and Polydor CDs didn't sound too good, with rather boxy sound, but this new remastering spreads out the sound much more and allows the voices to come across more vibrantly.

The packaging is a vast improvement over previous issues, as the CD booklet is lavishly illustrated with photos of the original Broadway cast. It's like a souvenir programme in itself. However, the companion libretto booklet suffers from shoddy editorial quality. There are some mistakes scattered throughout the libretto that have been there since the original Geffen release, especially some erroneous lines in the printed lyrics of Bustopher Jones and Old Deuteronomy. Also, some lyrics do not fully utilise the entire space of the booklet pages.

These quibbles aside, the music still matters and it's a treat to hear such a wonderful recording of CATS in superb, improved sound quality. Now if only 2007 will bring a remastered version of the highlights album...
The Complete Original Quartet Recordings
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • An American Master (but it takes a European to know)
  • Bird Lite?
  • Mastery
 The Complete Original Quartet Recordings
Sonny Stitt , and Hank Jones
Manufacturer: Lone Hill Jazz
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Jazz | Styles | Music
JazzJazz | Imports | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. New York Jazz
  2. Stitt's Bits: Bebop Recordings 1949-1952
  3. Sonny Stitt/Bud Powell/J.J. Johnson
  4. Hank Jones Quartet: Complete Recordings, Vol. 2
  5. Personal Appearance

ASIN: B0008GIXFU
Release Date: 2005-05-10

Tracks:

  1. Afterwards
  2. If I Should Lose You
  3. Blues for Bobby
  4. My Melancholy Baby
  5. Cherokee
  6. Engos, The Bloos
  7. Body and Soul
  8. I Didn't Know What Time It Was
  9. Best Things in Life Are Free
  10. People Will Say We're in Love
  11. Bloosey
  12. Bird's Eye
  13. It Might as Well Be Spring
  14. Fine and Frisky
  15. No Cal
  16. Corn Flakes
  17. Eye Ball
  18. Saginaw

Album Description

This 20-bit remastered collection contains two of Sonny Stitt's finest sessions in a quartet setting with the illustrious pianist Hank Joneson on one CD. Lonehill. 2005.

Album Details

This Exceptional Release Includes Two of Sonny Stitt's Finest Sessions in a Quartet Setting with the Illustrious Pianist Hank Jones. Jones' Delicate Piano Accompaniment and Tastefully Sparse Solos Mark the Perfect Complement to Stitt's Dazzling Virtuosic Display. Both Sessions Boast Exceptional Rhythm Sections with Tommy Potter and Roy Haynes Expertly Holding Down the Bass and Drum Chairs for the Stitt in Orbit Session and Wendell Marshall and Shadow Wilson Swinging Away on all of the Exciting Material from the Album Sonny Stitt and the New Yorkers. The Two Different Dates also Include Eight Original Stitt Compositions and Feature the Leader on Both Tenor and Alto Saxophone.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars An American Master (but it takes a European to know).......2007-06-08

A previous reviewer, Mr. Chandlee from Paris, has crafted a concise single-paragraph review as insightful for its evaluation of Stitt's music as for its appraisal of the immediate and more lasting cultural significance of this supreme player. In fact, it's the verbal equivalent of a Sonny Stitt solo! Hardly the most innovative musician, Stitt was certainly the "most perfect" of saxophone players. It's been estimated he recorded approximately 150 sessions under his own name in his 30-year-career. On the '50s Roost recordings (the tapes were thought lost until recently), he would arrive at the studio, quickly select 10 standards and proceed to play three-minute improvised solos that could not have been better constructed if composed in advance. The syntax wasn't as complex as Parker's but was no less original or remarkable for being a more universally understood logic (as the reviewer, Mr. Hodges, states more plainly in his review). And the beauty of his sound! "Pure" and "pellucid" but also undeniably "black," or "soulful"--a fully "embodied" tone on both saxophones. And the articulations--as crisp and fluent as any other saxophonist on the planet--but also capable of introducing tones with a warmly legato tonguing, followed through by a wistful, slightly elegaic quality alternating with the utter "presence" of the uptempo numbers, whether bebop sound & fury or inner-city blues.

Stitt was not an "open" improviser. He had his formulae, which he stitched seamlessly together and worked to perfection, which some listeners hold against him. His playing, or "system," is about "closure," rather than the continual creation of tension. I don't think Sonny ever saw a tonic chord he didn't like, and whenever the opportunity presented itself, he would touch "home base" before embarking on his next melodic excursion. As a listener, there are times when a Hank Mobley or Harold Land is like a fresh breath of air, but inevitably, even after Coltrane and Dexter, I return to the mastery of Stitt, who was instrumentally to the American Songbook what Sinatra was vocally. He was a ubiquitous lone wolf, a traveling musical gunslinger for hire who loved tenor and alto "battles" (I've always felt he was a bit more creative on alto, though his audiences, and probably Sonny as well, seemed to favor the tenor, especially for the "duels").

These two Roost sessions are merely representative, not quintessential, Stitt-- but even representative Stitt is timeless, quintessential jazz. Still, you might look for "New York Jazz" (Jimmy Jones rather than Hank Jones), which is like an Art Tatum recording--a bit overwhelming but indispensable; also "Sonny Stitt with the Oscar Peterson Trio" is worth the price of the Japanese import; and "In Style" finds him in rare form on both horns, sometimes on the same tune.

Sonny played through pain, hard knocks, heavy hang-overs, but he kept playing--and 90% of it is "can't miss." But avoid anything with "Ronnie Scott's" or "Left-Bank" in the title (both are rip-offs) as well as any sessions on which he distorts his gorgeous sound with the Selmer Varitone attachment that he favored for several years in the late '60s. Also, he appeared with Blakey's Jazz Messengers on two dates in the '60s--the 2nd one, on Impulse ("Jazz Message," I believe), is particularly lame (at least for a Stitt performance).

Perhaps the most currently prized out-of-print set is "Endgame Brilliance," a single CD compilation of the two studio sessions--"Tune Up" and "Constellation"--that caused musicians and critics to "rediscover" him in the early to mid-1970s. (It may be coming out as a Spanish import.) Finally, the most fascinating match-up in the music: the six months Sonny played with Miles in 1960 following the departure of Coltrane. It's a colossal struggle--Miles' new modernist, modal bag vs. Sonny's Bird-inherited harmonic universe and bop language. Miles tries everything to shove Sonny's face in the new music, but he'll have none of it. (I caught Sonny many times in person. He could be outgoing and personable--or as cold and "ornery," stubborn and independent as they come, barely more approachable than Miles). Neither player gives an inch on the Miles-Sonny confrontations (available only on overseas recordings made in France and Sweden).

5 out of 5 stars Bird Lite?.......2006-09-30

My first reaction to hearing Sonny Stitt was "Bird Lite", like he was a kinder, gentler Charlie Parker. After listening to this CD every day since I got it, I would refine that initial impression. Sonny flies to the heights of a Parker, but he first adheres to the melody line of the (mostly) standards on this disk. And he plays that line with beauty and control. Then, when he takes off into the improvisational stratosphere, it's a lot easier to mentally attach the variations to the melody. Also, the effect of the sudden acceleration is breath-taking. I love Charlie, but I find SS a more listenable music experience. I love garlic, but I don't eat the cloves raw, know what I mean?

My prior exposure to Sonny Stitt was through his late career recordings on Verve. The playing here seems vastly more assured. And as noted below, the remastering job is awesome: you really get to hear the delicate nature of the tone of the sax; his alto always seemed a little screechy to my ears on the Verve records. And the bonus is the piano work of Hank Jones. Wow! Complex, melodic, and perfectly simpatico with the horn.

This CD is really something special; it's one of those rare jazz records where all the elements come together perfectly. Nearly 80 minutes worth, and I'm always a little sad when it's over. If I had any complaint at all, it's that I would have liked to have heard more of his tenor sax playing, which is confined to the last few tracks.

5 out of 5 stars Mastery.......2006-03-08

The advent of the CD, with its close-up reproduction of the sound of the saxophone, has been particularly kind to the late Sonny Stitt by bringing out his remarkable sonority on tenor and here primarily on alto. For those who knew Stitt from variable-quality LPs, the first exposure to his best recordings on CD can be hair-raising. Here on 13 cuts he is superbly accompanied by Hank Jones, Wendell Marshall and Shadow Wilson, also featured to great advantage on a recent live 50s release with Monk and Coltrane. Obviously inspired, Stitt's fiery, hard-edged yet voluptuous sound is the capper on his superb mastery of the three other parameters - melody, harmony and rhythm. Sonny Stitt did it all, as few others ever have, if truth be known. Of course as a musician who came up during the years when Charlie Parker dominated the jazz landscape, his playing is within the idiom created by Bird. But attentive listening reveals Sonny's originality and unique brilliance. Like Handel, Vivaldi and Telemann who made inestimable contributions while never reaching the level of JS Bach, Stitt's playing, while not as complex and innovative as Bird's, seemed to effortlessly attain gorgeous summits on days like these sessions with Hank Jones. His intensity and blues heat often transcends bebop and even jazz, exemplifying a popular musical form all his own, somewhere between rhythm and blues, song and the big-city night sound of the old black neighborhoods, where Stitt was a popular hero, incessantly on tour, ever constant to the blues and immensely respected for his faithfulness both to Bird's idiom and to himself. To some degree, his omnipresence and mastery consoled jazz fans for the premature departure of the incomparable Bird. These sides are exemplary of the rewards for the listener attentive to his confidence, control, kaleidoscopic yet always relevant virtuosity, and his urbane yet exalting soulfulness.
Complete Original Quintet/Sextet Studio Recordings
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Phenomenal West Coast stuff
 Complete Original Quintet/Sextet Studio Recordings
Al Cohn with Zoot Sims
Manufacturer: Lonehill Jazz
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000MV92NS
Release Date: 2007-02-12

Tracks:

  1. Tangerine
  2. Zoot Case
  3. Red Door
  4. Morning Flu
  5. Mediolistic
  6. Crimea River
  7. New Moan
  8. Moment's Notice
  9. My Blues
  10. Sandy's Swing
  11. Somebody Loves Me
  12. More Bread
  13. Sherm's Terms
  14. From a to Z
  15. East of the Sun
  16. Tenor for Two Please, Jack
  17. My Blues [Alternate Take]
  18. More Bread [Alternate Take]
  19. Tenor for Two Please, Jack [Alternate Take]
  20. Somebody Loves Me [Alternate Take]
  21. You'd Be So Nice to Come Home To

Tracks:

  1. Note
  2. You 'N Me
  3. On the Alamo
  4. Opener
  5. Angel Eyes
  6. Awful Lonely
  7. Love for Sale
  8. Improvisation for Unaccompanied Saxophones
  9. It's a Wonderful World - Al Cohn Quintet
  10. Brandy and Beer - Al Cohn Quintet
  11. Two Funky People - Al Cohn Quintet
  12. Chasing the Blues - Al Cohn Quintet
  13. Haley's Comet - Al Cohn Quintet
  14. You're a Lucky Guy - Al Cohn Quintet
  15. Wailing Boat - Al Cohn Quintet
  16. Just You, Just Me - Al Cohn Quintet
  17. Gone with the Wind - Al Cohn Quintet

Album Description

Two CDs. Al Cohn and Zoot Sims played and recorded together on many occasions. This collection contains all of the Al and Zoot quintet and sextet studio recordings with one exception (a previously released title). This 38 track collection features the complete original albums From A To Z (1956), You 'N' Me (1960) and Al And Zoot (1957) plus their first quintet/sextet collaboration from 1952. Lonehill Jazz. 2007.

Album Details

Al Cohn and Zoot Sims Played and Recorded Together on Many Occasions. This Collection Contains all of the Al and Zoot Quintet and Sextet Studio Recordings with One Exception which Lone-hill Fans Will Understand: A February 1961 New York Session Originally Issued as Either Way. The Date Featured the Two Saxophonists Joined by Mose Allison on Piano, Bill Crow on Bass, and Gus Johnson on Drums. Singer Cecil "kid Haffey" Collier was also Added on Three Tracks. That Complete Session, Consisting of More Than Half an Hour of Music, Already Appeared in Our Series on the CD Entitled Zoot Sims-al Cohn: The Hoagy Carmichael Sessions and More, Where it was Coupled with an Obscure Cohn-sims Septet Session Originally Issued under the Name of Pianist Elliot Lawrence.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Phenomenal West Coast stuff.......2007-05-07

This cd is a very nice collector's dream from Lonehill. Even if this time they changed the original cover in this case I can forgive them. The new cover in my opinion is extremely nice so I can pass over this thing (even if generally the original cover is a must for me). This double cd collection comprehend some phenomenal fifties sessions from the guys. More or less 40 tunes from four sessions that were in the albums. Al&Zoot, You&Me, AtoZ and another earlier session. I can say this stuff is phenomenal West Coast music! The two altos create whirlwinds of sounds on tunes that are the epitome of West Coast sound! I can really suggests this collection because the music is great great stuff, no problem absolutly! You can buy the sessions separately because at least a coiuple of them are still available, but you are gonna spend a lot of money. Here they are well repackaged. But the main thing is the music. This double cd is a gem! Buy it without esitation.
Cabaret (1999 Studio Cast) (First Complete Recording)
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Documented Well, However Very Medicore
  • Redress the balance
  • Good Reference; Mediocre Recording
  • Cabaret out of the closet!
  • So complete
 Cabaret (1999 Studio Cast) (First Complete Recording)
John Kander , Fred Ebb , Maria Friedman , Judi Dench , and Jonathan Pryce
Manufacturer: Jay Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B00000I132
Release Date: 1999-02-09

Tracks:

  1. Act One: Willkommen - Jonathan Pryce/Michael Cantwell/Nicholas Colicos/Kate Copstick/Jackie Crawford/Dominic Curtis...
  2. Act One: So What - Judi Dench
  3. Act One: Don't Tell Mama - Maria Friedman/Louise Gold/Gay Soper/Claire Moore/Jacqueline Dankworth/Caroline O'Connor...
  4. Act One: Telephone Dance - Gregg Edelman/Michael Cantwell/Nicholas Colicos/Kate Copstick/Jackie Crawford/Dominic Curtis...
  5. Act One: Perfectly Marvellous - Maria Friedman/Gregg Edelman
  6. Act One: Two Ladies - Jonathan Pryce/Louise Gold/Claire Moore
  7. Act One: It Could Not Please Me More - Fred Ebb/Judi Dench
  8. Act One: Tomorrow Belongs To Me - German Youth/Men
  9. Act One: Why Should I Wake Up? - Gregg Edelman/Maria Friedman
  10. Act One: Sitting Pretty - Jonathan Pryce/Louise Gold/Gay Soper/Claire Moore/Jacqueline Dankworth/Caroline O'Connor...
  11. Act One: Married - Fred Ebb/Judi Dench
  12. Act One: Fruit Shop Dance - NSO/John Owen Edwards
  13. Act One: Meeskite - Fred Ebb/Maria Friedman/Michael Cantwell/Nicholas Colicos/Kate Copstick/Jackie Crawford...
  14. Act One: Tomorrow Belongs To Me (Reprise) - Caroline O'Connor/Marcus Allen Cooper/Michael Cantwell/Nicholas Colicos/Kate Copstick...

Tracks:

  1. Act Two: Entr'acte - NSO/John Owen Edwards
  2. Act Two: Kick Line - NSO/John Owen Edwards
  3. Act Two: Married (Reprise) - Fred Ebb
  4. Act Two: If You Could See Her - Jonathan Pryce
  5. Act Two: What Would You Do? - Judi Dench
  6. Act Two: Sally's Revolt - Gregg Edelman/Maria Friedman
  7. Act Two: Cabaret - Maria Friedman
  8. Act Two: Break Up - Maria Friedman/Gregg Edelman
  9. Act Two: Finale Ultimo - Gregg Edelman/Jonathan Pryce/Fred Ebb/Judi Dench/Maria Friedman/Kate Copstick/Jackie Crawford...
  10. Act Two: Curtain Calls - Michael Cantwell/Nicholas Colicos/Kate Copstick/Jackie Crawford/Dominic Curtis/Geoffrey Dallamore...
  11. Act Two: Exit Music - NSO/John Owen Edwards
  12. Money '87 - Jonathan Pryce/Micheal Cantwell/Nicholas Colicos/Kate Copstick/Jackie Crawford/Dominic Curtis...
  13. Don't Go - Gregg Edelman/Maria Friedman
  14. I Don't Care Much - Jonathan Pryce
  15. Mein Herr - Maria Friedman/Louise Gold/Gay Soper/Claire Moore/Jacqueline Dankworth/Caroline O'Connor...
  16. Maybe This Time - Maria Friedman
  17. Money Money - Jonathan Pryce/Maria Friedman
  18. Tiller Girls - Louise Gold/Gay Soper/Claire Moore/Jacqueline Dankworth/Caroline O'Connor/Clare Burt

Amazon.com

This 1999 entry in JAY's Masterworks Edition series captures Kander and Ebb's Cabaret in an excellent two-disc release that preserves the complete Broadway score with its original orchestrations and vocal arrangements, as well as an addendum of four songs written for the 1972 motion picture (including "Maybe This Time" and "Money, Money") as well as three written for the 1987 Broadway revival--111 minutes in all. Jonathan Pryce might be too similar to his most famous role as Miss Saigon's Engineer, but Oscar-winner Judi Dench (who shined as Desiree in a London version of Sondheim's A Little Night Music) and lyricist Fred Ebb himself are excellent as the older couple, Fraulein Schneider and Herr Schultz. Also good are Gregg Edelman as Cliff and Maria Friedman (best known for her role in the video production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat) as Sally Bowles. This production may not have the authenticity of the original Broadway cast, the Liza-led star power of the film soundtrack, or the grit of the 1998 revival, but it's a highly enjoyable reading, and the completeness of the score makes it a must for the voracious Cabaret listener. --David Horiuchi

Customer Reviews:

3 out of 5 stars Documented Well, However Very Medicore.......2006-01-02

Listening to this recording made me realize how medicore Cabaret is to other Kander-Ebb shows. There are certainly some great numbers, "Willkommen", "So What?", "Don't Tell Mama", "Perfectly Marvelous", "Two Ladies", "The Money Song" and the title song, to name to bulk of the terrific songs, but much of the show's book numbers, with the exception of "So What?" and "Perfectly Marvelous", are awful.
I think the medicore feeling you get from this recording comes from the medicore cast. Jonathan Pryce's MC cannot compare to Joel Grey's. Maria Friedman is also incomparable and medicore to the 1966 Sally and Liza Minnelli.
The only real standout performers here are Dame Judi Dench as Frau Schnider and the lyricist extraordinaire, Fred Ebb as Herr Schultz.
I'd recommend the 1966 Original Cast Album and the movie soundtrack over this.

5 out of 5 stars Redress the balance.......2005-12-07

Five stars may seem a lot when the average for this item at the time of writing is hovering around the 3* mark. However this is a definitive set featuring all the music in the performing edition of the show as well as other titles added since the original Broadway production or from the film.
'Definitive'? Certainly! Fred Ebb sings Herr Schulz and you can be sure he would not have let his name and reputation be attached to an inferior product.
The cast is stupendous. Not only has Dame Judie Dench graduated from her West End role of Sally but the marvellous Maria Freidman (Woman in White) and Jonathan Pryce (Miss Saigon) head an all star cast of mainly British artistes. Among the Kit-Kat girls alone are Gay Soper, Claire Moore, Jacqueline Dankworth and Clare Burt.
Pryce may be no Joel Grey but who is? He is perfectly acceptable and in the end it is the totality of performance that should be judged and here this set stands as high as the original cast recording yet it is so much more complete. If we can never have a top live production on DVD (where is that Sam Mendes Donmar production of 1994?) then this is a more than acceptable substitute.

3 out of 5 stars Good Reference; Mediocre Recording.......2002-07-03

This is an excellent recording to use as reference. As a music director for a production of Cabaret, this recording was released just in time. Very helpful for choreographers who need to hear the 'bells and whistles' of the percussion part in dance numbers such as "Money Song" and "Fruit Shop Dance".

Any director, choreographer, and music director mounting a production of the 1987 revision really should listen to this as it is the only recording of Cliff's new solo "Don't Go" (but if you have a choice - use "Why Should I Wake Up?" instead), and the 1987 "Money Song" as published by Tams-Whitmark.

Judi Dench is marvelous in her solos, but to be honest, the rest of the performances fell flat for me. I felt the energy was low, and the dialects and diction left much to be desired.

If you are a Cabaret collector, a Judi Dench fan, or a music director or other such production team member, this recording will interest you greatly. However, for listening pleasure, stick to the original Broadway and Broadway Revival cast recordings. The only tracks unique to the recording are "Don't Go", the 1987 "Money Song" and some dance and incidental music. All other tracks can be found on the Original Cast, Revival Cast, and Film soundtracks, and with the exception of Dench's numbers, all are performed better on those recordings.

4 out of 5 stars Cabaret out of the closet!.......2001-07-27

Hi. You wonder why Earth is so popular? I think it is because there are recordings such as this around! And it is there I start my revue:

This version of ýCabaretý is a real special gem for Cabaret fans. It has a number of pushing and pulling factors. The C.D. is essentially utilising the original book, music, lyrics and orchestrations as conceived by the authors, performed on double C.D.

This Studio Cast has recorded the majority of the music featured in the original Vocal Score, including the much loved, and sometimes much missed Telephone Dance, Fruit Shop Dance and Sitting Pretty, despite missing a few incidentals but including Sallyýs Revolt and the Break Up (with dialogue!). All of the music is in its original orchestrations and played by the National Symphony Orchestra; large and well rehearsed! They performed the technically difficult Telephone Dance and Sitting Pretty with great, noticeable enthusiasm, as well as the Kick Line being very good- sometimes throughout the C.D. there are uncertainties with the tempo. There was an over-exaggerated reverb throughout, although one gets used to the echo after a while!

I particularly wanted to buy this C.D., instead of the original Broadway version, because of the performers: Dame Judi Dench (playing Fraulein Schneider); the lyricist Fred Ebb (playing Herr Schultz); Maria Friedman (playing Sally Bowles but best known for ýThe Witches of Eastwický and the ýJosephýý video); Jonathan Price (playing M.C.); Gregg Edelman (playing Cliff); and many other well-known faces!

Although I say that the performances were generally well-judged, I must admit that I was a little unsure of the standard of some of the singing, especially the Jewish shopkeeper with the broad American accent! At least he knows his words quite well! I was pleasantly surprised at Dame Judiýs performance. Although not a singer, her acting and accent are just perfect for the part and gains almost top marks (50 marks to be precise!). Some people say that Maria Friedman plays Sally a little over the top. I canýt help but notice that Friedman found some of her songs a little bit too hard to sing for her range and that she lost a lot of emotion in ýCabaretý itself. She plays her, in some places, over the top, yes, but I agree with some that this is how Sally is supposed to be. Her eccentric performance got me laughing!

Another reason why I bought this C.D. was because they included many bonus tracks. They added some of the ýCut Songs.ý These include ýDonýt Goý and ýI Donýt Care Much.ý They also added ýSongs especially composed for the movieý (ýMoney, Moneyý, ýMein Herrý, ýMaybe This Timeý etcý) as well as a very interesting merge of ýSitting Prettyý and ýMoney, Moneyý as arranged for the 1987 revival. These being preformed, I think, by the Studio Cast. Excellent!

The written commentary with it is also interesting (simple yet detailed synopsis and information regarding the genesis of the show). The booklet also contains photos of the performers recording the C.D.

In summary: While singing isnýt admittedly the best, this package is a library of entertainment for the Cabaret fan especially, and would be advisable to buy if you, e.g. knew the performers and would like to take advantage of the bonus tracks and variety of music, as well as if you want a more up-to-date recording (1993-2000).

5 out of 5 stars So complete.......2001-06-16

Most thorough recording containing not only 1966 and 98 tunes, but the hard to find 1987 revival pieces as well. A must for anyone doing this production.
Les Miserables - The Complete Symphonic Recording
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Great, definitely go with this and TAC
  • Awesome
  • Bought it used - thank God!
  • magnificent!
  • Mixed Feelings
 Les Miserables - The Complete Symphonic Recording
Claude-Michel Schonberg
Manufacturer: Relativity
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000003BVK
Release Date: 1990-05-22

Tracks:

  1. Prologue
  2. Valjean's Soliloquy (What Have I Done?)
  3. At The End Of The Day
  4. I Dreamed A Dream
  5. Lovely Ladies
  6. Fantine's Arrest
  7. The Runaway Cart
  8. Who Am I?-The Trial
  9. Fantine's Death
  10. The Confrontation
  11. Castle On A Cloud
  12. Master Of The House

Tracks:

  1. The Bargain-The Waltz Of Treachery
  2. Look Down
  3. The Robbery-Javert's Intervention (Another Brawl)
  4. Stars
  5. Eponine's Errand
  6. The ABC Cafe-Red And Black
  7. Do You Hear The People Sing?
  8. Rue Plumet-In My LIfe
  9. A Heart Full Of Love
  10. The Attack On Rue Plumet
  11. One Day More!
  12. At The Barricade (Upon These Stones)
  13. On My Own
  14. Building The Barricade
  15. Javert's Arrival
  16. Little People
  17. A Little Fall Of Rain
  18. Night Of Anguish
  19. First Attack

Tracks:

  1. Drink With Me
  2. Bring Him Home
  3. Dawn Of Anguish
  4. The Second Attack (Death Of Gavroche)
  5. The Final Battle
  6. The Sewers-Dog Eats Dog
  7. Javert's Suicide
  8. Turning
  9. Empty Chairs At Empty Tables
  10. Every Day (Marius And Cosette)
  11. Valjean's Confession
  12. The Wedding Chorale- Beggars At The Feast
  13. Epilogue (Finale)
  14. Bonus Track

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Great, definitely go with this and TAC.......2005-08-31

Right now, there are four official English-language versions of Les Miserables: the Original London Cast Recording, the Original Broadway Cast Recording, the Complete Symphonic Recording, and the 10th Anniversary Concert Recording. Les Mis' addicts are best served by purchasing all recordings, as they showcase different stages (as in the OLC and the OBC) of the development of this mega-musical, as well as the interesting variations in presentation and performances by the different casts and orchestras.

If you're the average musical-theater listener who can't afford to buy all available English-language recordings, however, my advice would be to get the CSR (due to the fact that it's "complete") and the TAC recording (due to the fact that performer- and performance-wise, it's leaps and bounds better than all of the other recordings). You deserve no less.

5 out of 5 stars Awesome.......2005-07-03

I can't believe all the negative comments about Gary Morris. He is so much better in the role than Colm Wilkinson. I've seen Gary perform the part three times and there is NO better Jean ValJean (seen the play 14 times). It's an international cast and some of the accents do take time getting used to. But the power of the music supercedes it all. Listen with your heart people. It's so incredible.

3 out of 5 stars Bought it used - thank God!.......2005-06-17

"Les Miserables" is a marvelous musical; a stunningly faithful interpretation of Victor Hugo's masterpiece, with an inspiring storyline and unforgettable characters. There are 2 reasons for buying a Les Mis CD - (1) you've seen a performance and want ONE CD to remind you of it or (2) you've become a les Mis junkie (like me) and want multiple versions so you too can hold forth on the rival merits of Andy Warlow vs Michael Maguire, Patty LuPone vs Ruthie Henshaw, Frances Ruffelle vs Kaho Shimada vs Lea Solonga. If you are in the first category, you really want the Tenth Anniversary Concert. The TAC has the complete storyline (albeit slightly abridged), it was recorded live (so there's an unique intensity and chemistry between performers), and from top to bottom it has by far the best cast.

However, if you're a serious Les Mis fan, you should buy this CD (in addition), simply because it does have the complete score. (The trouble with THAT is that it includes practically the only misstep in the whole script - if Jean Valjean has his number branded on his chest, then how is it credible that someone else will be convicted in his place?) I bought it for that reason and to hear other interpretations of the roles (in particular Andy Warlow's). I have all 4 versions, and they have all have their pluses and minuses, but frankly, I'm glad I didn't pay full price for this one. This version has a rather weak cast in general, but that does add to the fun arguing about it. On the plus side, it has Philip Quast ( THE BEST Javert, but he's even better on the TAC), Michael Ball (THE BEST Marius, also on the OLC and TAC versions), and Andy Warlow (a stirring Enjorlas for sure, but not THAT much better than Michael Maguire on the OBC and TAC). The scenes at the barricade are the best part of the CD. Kaho Shimada is an uneven Eponine, OK sometimes, less so at others. Debbie Byrne (Fantine) is OK, but I don't find her as moving as Patty LuPone (OLC) or Ruthie Henshaw (TAC). Tracy Shayne (Cosette) is irratating, not nearly as sweet as Judy Kuhn (OLB and TAC) or even Rebecca Caine (OLC). I find Barry James and especially Gay Soper (M. and Mme. Thenardier) grating as well.

I really miss Colm Wilkinson (OLC, OBC and TAC). OK, he has a unique singing style, but such heart. Not always perfect, but so powerful and emotional. All his solos and "Confrontation" just stop me dead in my tracks. The sweetness and purity of his "Bring Him Home" and "Epilogue" move me to tears. But really, there must be someone else who can do at least an adequate job or the show wouldn't have run so long in so many venues. I am willing to listen to another interpretation, but not this one. This is the central role in the play, it really can't survive without a good performance here. Gary Morris is horrible as Jean Valjean, cringe-provoking at times, merely weak at others. He's totally overmatched by Quast in "Confrontation" and by everyone in "One Day More" and "Epilogue". I haven't tried the recommendation of one reviewer of listening while squinting and shaking my head hard, but I don't see how that will help. Morris's "What have I done?", "Bring Him Home" and "Valjean's Confession" make me cover my ears or send me running for the fast forward button, although "Who am I?" isn't so bad. (I just tried the head shaking trick, it didn't help.)

5 out of 5 stars magnificent!.......2005-06-15

Ok, I admit it. I have long been a fan of musicals, but I was only exposed to Les Mis a few months ago. My roommate loaned me this recording, and I fell in love. I played nothing but this soundtrack for the next several weeks.

As this is the only recording I've heard fully, I cannot give any comparisons between the performers here and those on other versions, but I do wish to give my general impression of the cast.

*Gary Morris (Valjean) - he has a strong, clear voice with which it is hard to find fault. He sings with emotion and passion, and I cannot imagine ever tiring of hearing him as Jean Valjean. If I had to give a complaint, it would be that I could imagine a voice with a little more distinct character...something a little riskier for the part of someone so complex.

*Philip Quast (Javert) - wow, I love deep voices, and his is so rich! I love when he hits the low note near the beginning of "Confrontation" ...I've seriously replayed that part over and over again just because it sends shivers through me...haha, I think you get the idea. This guy is good.

*Debbie Byrne (Fantine) - her voice took some getting used to because at first it seemed to me a little uncontrolled, almost like she could capture the fullness of the sound but not quite hit the notes. However, the more I listen to her, the more I enjoy her. Her voice has a wonderful texture, something you totally miss when listening to the super-clear, trilling sopranos that seem to be found all over most other musicals.

*Kaho Shimada (Eponine) - her voice took a little getting used to as well. I was a little confused until I realized she was Japanese, for though I wouldn't say you hear an accent, her voice does have a very different quality to it. Still, I enjoyed her performance very much. Her voice is trembling with emotion the entire time, almost like she can hardly control it...it is quite moving.

*Tracy Shayne (Cosette) - wow. I'm sorry, is Cosette supposed to be this shrill? Turn it off! While I'm impressed at some of the notes she hits, I don't think it's supposed to make you want to cover your ears.

*Michael Ball (Marius) -Ball makes Marius, a rather annoying character if you ask me, into someone actually likable, if not lovable. He's passionate and romantic, but not vapid. Probably my favorite vocal performance.

*Gay Soper and Barry James (the Thernardiers) - their voices are rather grating, but that's the point, right? Very entertaining performances...particularly in "Master of the House" (which, it's true, somehow manages to be stuck in your head all day).

*Anthony Warlow (Enjorolas) - very appropriate voice...manly and vibrant. If he doesn't make you want to go out and fight, then there's no help for you!


Overall, the performances were wonderful. I highly recommend this CD. A great recording of a great musical!

4 out of 5 stars Mixed Feelings.......2005-04-20

I bought this recently, and it was an object lesson in why I ought to research an item before purchasing it.

For me, it's truly a toss-up as to whether this is a recording worth purchasing. The main benefit-a far from insignificant one-is that it is a complete recording full of much more materiel than can be found on the London or Broadway cast recordings. Basically, I was far from satisfied. The liner notes are error ridden, and the casting was not as good as possible. Gary Morris struck me as too young for the part, and Gay Soper (Mme. Thenardier) has a voice akin to the sound of fingernails on a chalkboard. But, in the absence of a complete Broadway recording, this still may be the best version available to buy. Be sure, however, to supplement it with another version. (The Tenth Anniversary recording might be the best.)
Les Miserables (Highlights from the Complete Symphonic International Cast Recording)
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • A triumph!
  • The Best Cast
  • What's the point of this?
  • What Got Me Hooked On Les Miz
  • Great Highlights Album!
 Les Miserables (Highlights from the Complete Symphonic International Cast Recording)
Alain Boublil , Claude-Michel Schonberg , Gary Morris , and Michael Ball
Manufacturer: Relativity
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000003BW7
Release Date: 1991-10-22

Tracks:

  1. At The End Of The Day
  2. I Dreamed A Dream
  3. Who Am I?/The Trial
  4. Fantine's Death
  5. The Confrontation
  6. Master Of The House
  7. Stars
  8. The ABC Cafe/Red And Black
  9. Do You Hear The People Sing?
  10. A Heart Full Of Love
  11. One Day More!
  12. On My Own
  13. Drink With Me
  14. Bring Him Home
  15. Javert's Suicide
  16. Empty Chairs At Empty Tables
  17. Finale

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars A triumph!.......2006-04-04

There are no two ways about it: this album is phenomenal. I've listened to the others, but the singers on this recording are so emotional and involved, not to mention talented.

First of all, Gary Morris as Jean Valjean. He's amazing. He has a smooth voice, hits the high notes, and I just fell in love with him. Philip Quast as Javert takes my breath away. "The Confrontation" is probably my favorite song on the album; Morris and Quast are perfect together. Debbie Byrne is wonderful as Fantine, Kaho Shimada is great as Eponine; sure she has a little bit of an accent, but she has a great voice. Anthony Warlow, as Enjolras, stole the show in my opinion. His voice is unbelievable. Tracy Shayne, as Cosette, is good, but her voice is a little too sugary for me. Michael Ball is said to be the best Marius of them all, and he's good, but sometimes he's a little whiney. Great voice, though.

One thing that shocks me about a lot of the other reviews here is that Barry James and Gay Soper, as M. and Mme Thenardier, are said to be bad. In my opinion, everyone else falls far short. James and Soper actually do the accents, instead of sounding like upper-crust British actors. They're amazing.

Obviously "One Day More" is the greatest song on the album. It's amazing. I recommend this to anyone. If you're new to Les Miserables, this is the place to start. If you're a Les Mis veteran, you HAVE to hear this one.

5 out of 5 stars The Best Cast.......2006-01-18

Don't listen to the Les Mis snobs that have posted before me. This cast is excellent. The personalities of the actors are distiguished much better on this version than any other and the actors seemed to sing more from the heart than on the original Broadway cast version. You get an image of these characters from just their voices without ever having to see them. This was my introduction to Les Mis so I have to admit I am probably biased. However, no other version has been able to replace this one. The main reasons are, Jean Val Jean sounds tortured, Javert sounds like he will hunt Val Jean to the ends of the earth, Marius and Cosette sound like they are in love, and the students have much more distinguished voices on this version. No matter what people say about the girl who play Eponine on this version she doesn't wimp out on the high notes like the girl on the original Broadway cast did and she has no Japanese accent. Her Japanese accent is about as noticable when she sings as a New York accent or a Boston accent when someone sings. Another thing the Les Mis snobs complain about is that this album doesn't contain the entire story of Les Mis. This isn't an audiobook, it's a highlights album. Get the story from the actual play or the book or the movies. Overall this is a great album that will last forever.

2 out of 5 stars What's the point of this?.......2005-06-30

"Les Miserables" is a marvelous musical; a stunningly faithful interpretation of Victor Hugo's masterpiece, with an inspiring storyline and unforgettable characters. There are 2 reasons for buying a Les Mis CD - (1) you've seen a performance and want ONE CD to remind you of it or (2) you've become a les Mis junkie (like me) and want multiple versions so you too can hold forth on the rival merits of Andy Warlow vs Michael Maguire, Patty LuPone vs Ruthie Henshaw, Frances Ruffelle vs Kaho Shimada vs Lea Solonga. If you are in the first category, you really want the Tenth Anniversary Concert. The TAC has the complete storyline (albeit slightly abridged), it was recorded live (so there's an unique intensity and chemistry between performers), and from top to bottom it has by far the best cast.

However, serious Les Mis fans also want the Complete Symphonic Recording because it does have the complete score. The Original London (OLC) and Original Broadway (OBC) Cast albums only have selected songs. I have all 4 major full-length English-language versions, and they have all have their pluses and minuses. But the main advantages of the CSR are its completeness and Andy Warlow (a truly stirring Enjorlas). Also, on the plus side, it has Philip Quast ( THE BEST Javert, but he's even better on the TAC), Michael Ball (THE BEST Marius, also on the OLC and TAC versions). Beyond these fine performers, the CSR has a rather weak cast in general. Gary Morris is horrible as Jean Valjean, cringe-provoking at times, merely weak at others. "Who am I?" isn't so bad, but "Bring Him Home" makes me cover my ears or send me running for the fast forward button. One of the few advantages of this trimmed down version is that we are spared Morris singing "What have I done?" He's totally overmatched by Quast in "Confrontation" and by everyone in "One Day More" and "Finale". Kaho Shimada is an uneven Eponine, OK sometimes, less so at others. Debbie Byrne (Fantine) is also OK, but I don't find her as moving as Patty LuPone (OLC) or Ruthie Henshaw (TAC). Tracy Shayne (Cosette) is really irratating, not nearly as sweet as Judy Kuhn (OLB and TAC) or even Rebecca Caine (OLC). I find Barry James and especially Gay Soper (M. and Mme. Thenardier) grating as well.

The bottom line is that cutting it down to one CD eliminates the major advantage of the CSR. If you just want nice performances of the major songs cheap, get the OLC version or the OBC Highlights

5 out of 5 stars What Got Me Hooked On Les Miz.......2005-04-05

This C.D. is what started it for me with my Les Miserable passion and it will for you too if you choose to buy this Les Miserable C.D!

I love this musical with all my heart and I know most of the words to every song. Les Miserables isn't a common musical it really has whole differant life- the lyrics are all what we can relate to and the themes of love, loss, and trying to better ourselves are all things we have expierenced as human beings. This musical does more than live up to Hugo's book on many ways it outshines in the lyrical sense. If given the chance I would see it everyday and I hope that someday Les Mis will visit my city so I do get the chance too.

Gary Morris isn't as good as Colm Wilkinson- but, Gary's great anyway and the rest of the cast is star pick of the litter- including one of my favorite singers of all-time Michael Ball- who is just as attractive as Ellijah Wood with a singing voice that matches Josh Groban.

All in all with a wonderfully written composed music and good direction it's understandable why this musical has been translated into ten differant languages and has swept the world literally-even in countries that don't usually support or like musical theater.

I only have one suggestion if you haven't read or seen a movie about Les Miserables you should probably buy the complete version it will be easier to understand than this Les Miz greatest hits C.D. All in all no matter what kind of music fan you are you have to have some kind of copy of Les Miz in your collection!

5 out of 5 stars Great Highlights Album!.......2003-03-12

I think the cast on this album is great. I loved Gary Morris as Valjean. Colm Wilkinson's singing, from what I've heard, is not as smooth as Gary Morris's, and I feel like his high notes are far more forced. The choppy quality of Wilkinson's singing also really gets to me.

I had no problems with the Fantine on this album, and although everyone seems to be complaining about Kaho Shimada's Japanese accent, I couldn't hear it. She sounded really clear and a little too girlish for my taste, but hey. Eponine's a young character. As others have commented, Javert and Marius were great. I also really enjoyed the singing of Anthony Warlow as Enjolras.

Additionally, I thought the selection of songs was really great. I'm not sure why people seem to want the album to project the full story of Les Mis. People who haven't seen the musical or read the book ought not to expect the full story out of a Highlights album. That kind of expectation is really too much to ask out of a short album which has been cut down from 4 hours long.

I'd recommend this to people who liked some of the Les Mis songs but don't want to buy 4 hours' worth of music to get a couple of songs. I think this is also a great choice for people who have read the book or who otherwise know the story, and would like to get a taste of how the musical treats the story of The Miserable.
Bitter Sweet (World Premiere Complete Recording)
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Noel Coward at His Best
  • Wonderful
  • GLORIOUS "COMPLETE" RECORDING OF A TRUE CLASSIC . . . .
  • Bittersweet perfection
  • A WONDERFUL RECORDING OF THIS CLASSIC OPERETTA.
 Bitter Sweet (World Premiere Complete Recording)

Manufacturer: Jay Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B00000IH30
Release Date: 1999-03-09

Tracks:

  1. Act One: That Wonderful melody - Tom Griffin
  2. Act One: The Call Of Life - Valerie Masterson/Company
  3. Act One: If You Could Only Come With Me - Martin Smith
  4. Act One: I'll See You Again - Valerie Masterson/Martin Smith
  5. Act One: Polka - New Sadler's Wells Opera
  6. Act One: What Is Love? - Valerie Masterson/Company
  7. Act One: The Last Dance - Michael Fitchew/Robert Jon/Ian Platt/David Dyer/Donald Jones/Tom Griffin/Sally-Anne Middleton...
  8. Act One: Finale Act One - Valerie Masterson/Martin Smith/Carol Lesley-Freen/Fiona Lamont/Susan Stubbs/Anne O'Neill...
  9. Act Two: Opening Chor (Life In The Morning) - Tom Riffin, David Kinder/Clive Walton/Sally-Anne Middleton/Susan Stubbs/Clare Welch/Lorraine Vaughan
  10. Act Two: Ladies Of The Town - Sara Weymouth/Lucy Fenwick/Claire Hayes/Rachel Izen
  11. Act Two: If Love Were All - Rosemary Ashe
  12. Act Two: Dear Little Cafe - Valerie Masterson/Martin Smith

Tracks:

  1. Act Two: Bitter Sweet Waltz - New Sadler's Wells Opera
  2. Act Two: Officer's Chor (We Wish To Order Wine) - Company
  3. Act Two: Tokay - Donald Maxwell/Company
  4. Act Two: Bonne Nuit, Merci - Rosemary Ashe
  5. Act Two: Kiss Me - Rosemary Ashe/New Sadler's Wells Opera
  6. Act Three: Tara-Ra--Boom-De-Ay - Donald Jones/David Dyer/Ian Platt/Robert Jon/Sally-Anne Middleton/Fiona Lamont/Claire Hayes...
  7. Act Three: Alas! The Time Is Past - Sally-Anne Middleton/Fiona Lamont/Carol Lesley-Green/Claire Hayes/Anne O' Neill/Susan Stubbs
  8. Act Three: We All Wear A Green Carnation - Michael Chance/David Kinder/Tom Griffin/Clive Walton
  9. Act Three: Zigeuner - Valerie Masterson
  10. Act Three: Finale Act Three - Valerie Masterson/Martin Smith

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Noel Coward at His Best.......2007-04-19

I was first introduced to Noel Coward's works "Sail Away" and "The Girl Who Came to Supper." They weren't the best of Broadway but did have some flair and great panache. Years later I purchased a recording of a British review of Coward's work called "Cowardy Custard" and began to appreciate his singularly British charm.

Now even years later and I just received "Bitter Sweet" in the mail and am in awe of Coward's breadth and scope. The score itself is on a par with "Show Boat." Now don't get me wrong, the frothy love affair of "Bitter Sweet" cannot compare to the dramatic turns in "Show Boat", but trust me--listen to the music and the orchestrations.

This is great work.

5 out of 5 stars Wonderful.......2007-04-10

I caught this production on tour in 1988. twice as I enjoyed it so much.

The recording is just as good, not least for the new orchestrations by Michael Reed which give some numbers, such as 'Tell Me What is Love?' and 'Tokay' a showstopping feel.

Valerie Masterson is superb in the large role of Sarah, who is required to play ages from 18 to 70+ during the course of the show. 'Zigeuner' is beautfully poised, the Finales are deeply felt, 'What is Love?' a tour-de-force but my favourite must be 'The Call of Life', aided by the orchestrations which cut to piano near the end before the full orchestra join for the thrilling climax.

Martin Smith was a very sincere and appealing English Carl Linden in the theatre, and the decision not to attempt a Viennese accent did not detract from his performance. His is a much lighter, music theatre rather than operatic voice, and Masterson blends well with him in their duets, with 'I'll See You Again' being the obvious highlight.

Rosemary Ashe as the crowd-pleasing Manon doesn't disappoint, reinventing 'If Love Were All' from the now rather quaint-sounding delivery of Ivy St Helier in the original. Her cabaret act, a saucy French number followed by a more restrained 'Kiss Me' are delivered with great style.

Donald Maxwell (who didn't appear in the stage production) sings well in his one number, 'Tokay' complete with ringing top Ab which was added by the orchestrator.

This recording is also greatly helped by the ensemble players, such as the six girls who are Sarah's bridesmaids and later have a rather middle-aged comment on marriage, 'Alas! The Time is Past' which was cut from the stage show, perhaps to cut the length down. The 'Green Carnation' boys have also done excellent work earlier as the quartet of footmen after the party (a typical Coward lyric). The choral singing is thrilling in such numbers as 'What is Love?', 'We Wish to Order Wine' and 'Tokay'.

One of my all-time favourite nights at the theatre, this recording is one I never tire of hearing. It shows how an older show can be given new life and vitality given the right treatment.

5 out of 5 stars GLORIOUS "COMPLETE" RECORDING OF A TRUE CLASSIC . . . . .......2006-07-21

NBC Radio. February 23, 1953. Marvin Miller, announcer:

"Ladies and gentlemen, The Railroad Hour. (train whistles) And here comes the star-studded show train. (Theme music: orchestra & chorus) Tonight the American Association of Railroads presents Noel Coward`s operetta, BITTER SWEET, starring Gordon MacRae and his guest, Dorothy Warenskjold. Our choir is under the direction of Norman Luboff and the music is arranged and conducted by Carmen Dragon. Yes, tonight another big musical hit is brought to you transcribed by the American Railroads, the same railroads that bring you most of the food you eat, the clothes you wear, the fuel you burn, and all the other things you use in your daily life. And now, here is our star, Gordon MacRae!"

BTV (before TV), my sisters and I would gather around the radio practically every Monday night for The Railroad Hour. It was never an "hour" show, debuting on ABC radio on October 4, 1948 with guests Dinah Shore and Jane Powell. The show was GOOD NEWS, condensed to 45 minutes. On May 2, 1949 the program switched to a 30-minute format -- SHOWBOAT with guest Lucille Norman. On October 20 of the same year it moved to NBC Radio, where it stayed through its final show on June 21, 1954 -- THE NEW MOON, also with Ms. Norman. I don't know how many of the 299 episodes I heard (a lot), but BITTER SWEET - "Coward's shameless attempt to revive sentimental operetta" - remains a particular favorite of mine.

Maybe it's because BITTER SWEET is, if anything, a nostalgic show. The heroine, Sarah Millick - now the Marchioness of Shayne - recounts her life story at a party. Forty-five years earlier, ". . .she fell so desperately in love with her handsome young singing master that she threw it all away in order to be with him. In Vienna, five poverty-stricken years later, her adored Carl is killed in a duel. But his music lives on as the self-reliant Sarah earns fame throughout Europe with her singing. Finally returning to England, she marries the elderly Marquis of Shayne who has waited so patiently for her." -- The Guide to Musical Theatre

Sure, the plot is corny, but the music is magnificent. "I'll See You Again," the theme song of the operetta, is probably Noel Coward's best known song, and a true classic. There's also the rousing "Tokay," magnificently sung by Donald Maxwell; "Dear Little Café," the Act Two duet for Sarah & Carl; the quartet "Ladies of the Town;" and "We All Wear a Green Carnation," sung by four overdressed, 1890s dandies; "Zigeuner," Sarah's big song in the final act; and my personal favorite, "If Love Were All," which includes the poignant phrase "I believe that since my life began/The most I've had is just a talent to amuse."

Noel Coward's BITTER SWEET does more than merely amuse. Its soaring melodies and sophisticated lyrics actually have the power to lift the listener to a higher, better place. The production by the New Sadler's Wells Opera is absolutely first rate, with outstanding vocal work by Valerie Masterson as Sarah, Rosemary Ashe as Manon, & the previously mentioned Donald Maxwell. I tried to like Martin Smith (Carl Linden) but would have preferred a bigger, more operatic voice - Frank Porretta would have been ideal. But it's a minor quibble. The large supporting cast of singers is also outstanding.

Very highly recommended. It's so good to hear melodies like these sung so gloriously. How unfortunate that its no longer feasible to mount shows like this (or THE GREAT WALTZ or KISMET, etc.) anymore.






5 out of 5 stars Bittersweet perfection.......2003-10-13

I originally acquired this recording on vinyl in the summer of '89 during my first trip to London, & was stunned at the haunting richness of the score & the beauty of the perfomances, particularly Valerie Masterton's as Sarah. It remains one of my very favorite albums--I am listening to it again as I write this. Run, don't walk, to buy this, & discover one of the truly great gems of 20th century operetta that deserves to be staged more often.

5 out of 5 stars A WONDERFUL RECORDING OF THIS CLASSIC OPERETTA........1999-08-04

Noel Coward's evocative score with it's nostalgic tribute to Viennese operetta is beautifully recorded here. A rare gem.

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