Mais

Mais

Mais

ASIN: B000005HGS

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
Marisa Monte's sophomore effort proved to be the breakout album for the young MPB (Brazilian popular music) diva. Adventurous and artful, the album took her where few had gone before, thanks to the production work of Arto Lindsay and musical contributions from John Zorn (both stalwarts of the avant-garde New York scene), as well as Japan's Ryuichi Sakamoto and fellow Brazilian Nana Vasconcelos. The result had all the airiness and grace of the best Brazilian music, as on "Beija Eu," but with rock and new jazz overtones shading the music and adding meat to the broth. Going platinum in Monte's native country, Mais made her into a real star. It also helped establish her musical identity as someone redefining Brazilian music in her own way. Mais is a triumph of art and the first really giant step in an illustrious career. --Chris Nickson

Mais,Marisa Monte,Blue Note Records,Afro-Brazilian,Brazil,Brazilian,Brazilian Pop,Jazz,Latin Continuum,MPB,Pop,World Music
Music Of The Crusades
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • This one'll get ya going.
  • TIME TRAVEL
  • Interesting variety
  • A trip through history
  • Overrated
 Music Of The Crusades

Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Walther v. der VogelweideWalther v. der Vogelweide | ( W ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
CDs $7 - $10CDs $7 - $10 | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music
All Bargain TitlesAll Bargain Titles | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music
The Decca Records StoreThe Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Sinners & Saints: The Ultimate Medieval and Renaissance Music Collection
  2. Music for a Medieval Banquet
  3. Codex Faenza: Instrumental Music of the Early 15th Century
  4. Music of the Troubadours
  5. Medieval Dance Music

ASIN: B0000041XJ
Release Date: 1991-04-05

Tracks:

  1. Music Of The Crusades: La quinte estampie real
  2. Music Of The Crusades: Pax in nomine Domini!
  3. Music Of The Crusades: Parti de mal - Third Crusade
  4. Music Of The Crusades: Chevalier, mult estes guariz - Second Crusade
  5. Music Of The Crusades: Chanterai por mon corage - Third Crusade
  6. Music Of The Crusades: Danse real
  7. Music Of The Crusades: Sede, Syon, in pulvere
  8. Music Of The Crusades: Palastinalied - Sixth Crusade
  9. Music Of The Crusades: Condicio - O nacio - Mane prima
  10. Music Of The Crusades: O tocius Asie - Crusade of 1248
  11. Music Of The Crusades: La uitime estampie real
  12. Music Of The Crusades: Cum sint difficilia - Crusade of 1248
  13. Music Of The Crusades: Li noviaus tens - Le Chatelain de Coucy - Third Crusade
  14. Music Of The Crusades: Fortz chausa es (Gaucelm Faidit) - Lament On The Death Of Richard Coeur - de - Lion
  15. Music Of The Crusades: Je ne puis - Amors me tienent - Veritatem
  16. Music Of The Crusades: Ahi! Amours - Third Crusade
  17. Music Of The Crusades: La tierche estampie real
  18. Music Of The Crusades: Ja nus hons pris - Song Of Captivity
  19. Music Of The Crusades: Au tens plain do felonnie - Crusade fo 1239

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars This one'll get ya going........2007-05-19

For early music people, this is another great compilation of stuff you just like to put on in the background while doing your daily routine. Good times.

5 out of 5 stars TIME TRAVEL.......2006-08-15

LIKE A TRIP BACK IN TIME. FROM THE FIRST NOTES, I WAS TRANSPORTED.

4 out of 5 stars Interesting variety.......2006-03-28

One of the problems I have with many early music CDs is an emphasis on one place in a time period. This reissue manages to avoid that flaw by including minnesinger, troubador, trouvere, and instrumental pieces, though the liner notes could easily have told us which of the pieces were troubador, and which trouvere, instead of just the tantalizing "two are troubador (written in langue d'oc)" without identifying which.

As a sampler, it is excellent, though the vocal pieces tend to be somewhat slow--not all the lyrics seem consistent with that delivery, so this is probably an artist's choice. It would be interesting to hear the same pieces performed now, 30 years later, with 30 years of new scholarship. Ah well, nothing is perfect!

5 out of 5 stars A trip through history.......2005-09-29

The time of the Crusades spanned several centuries, from the time Pope Urban II called upon Christendom to fight for Jerusalem until the thirteenth century (this does not include the numerous minor, unnumbered crusades, sometimes against other Christians). The Crusades became for many in the Middle Ages a romantic ideal; the appeal for those who would join the Crusades was two-fold, both riches in this world and salvation in the next.

In this collection, the texts of the songs are primarily contemporary with the Crusades, although a few come from later troubadour and folk songs. Some songs here directly relate to the Crusades in content (for example, Pax in nomine Domini!), whereas others are songs contemporary with and popular among the Crusaders, but have no direct relation to the Crusades. 'Ja nus hons pris' is one such song, which has origins attributed to one of the most famous of the Crusaders, Richard the Lionhearted.

One of the problems with music from this time period is that very little written material exists. What music notation there is often is reminiscent of Gregorian chant - there are markers for pitch, but nothing for rhythmic values, melodies, etc. Similarly, the types of instruments are often not listed for particular songs, so it becomes educated guesswork as to the instruments used - lutes, rebec, wind instruments, percussion, etc.

The performances here are wonderful and full. The Early Music Consort of London recorded this first for vinyl in 1970; this CD is a reissue, well engineered. David Munrow was the director as well as performer on recorder, fluet, shawm, crumhorn and bagpipes. Munrow's talents are well suited to this kind of medieval music. Among the other performers are soprano Christina Clarke, counter tenors James Bowman and Charles Brett, tenor Nigel Rogers and baritone Geoffrey Shaw. Musicians include Eleanor Sloan on treble rebec, Oliver Brookes on bass rebec, James Tyler on lute and citole, Gillian Reid on the bells, Christopher Hogwood on harp, organ, nakers and tabor, and James Blades on nakers and tabor.

This recording is superb, a great addition to an early music library, and a joy to have as a CD - I had the vinyl of this, but over time it warped in storage, and I was very sad to have lost such a brilliant collection of music. Here it is again, restored and full of power and life.

2 out of 5 stars Overrated.......2005-03-03

Note that I am a harsh reviewer, especially for music... but there are a lot of problems with this CD and there are better other there.

It is certainly interesting music and it does have historical value, but it is by no means unique.

Here are my criticisms:

1)
All of the 19 tracks are short. They range from 1-4 minutes with an average of around 2 1/2 minutes per track.

2)
This wouldn't be all that bad, except that none of those 19 tracks really stood out. They are all slow-paced and generic with little feeling of variety. Essentially, despite being a fan of the genre, I just couldn't get 'into' any of the music. It was not at all inspiring.

3)
One of my favorite things about medieval/renaissance music is the excellent balance and combination of voice talent and instruments.
This CD did not come through at all in that area, however.
The majority of this CD was the mellow, slow-paced singing that many people associate with the genre.
However, whenever the singers got going, the relatively few instruments all disappeared entirely, leaving you with just the singers (who weren't powerful enough to carry the show alone).


If you are a fan of the genre, then you might want to add this to your collection just because it isn't very expensive.

However, if you are merely interested in trying out the archaic music genre, then I defintely would recommend:
"Sinners & Saints - The Ultimate Medieval and Renaissance Music Collection"
*instead* of this one.
I gave Sinners & Saints a 5/5 - It was the CD that this one should've been.
Susan Graham ~ Berlioz - Les nuits d'été
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • At its best as pure singing, but a little short emotionally
  • A concerto for voice. Bravo!
  • Prime Berlioz from two most gifted advocates
  • A Berlioz singer to treasure
  • The greatest "Nuits d'Ete" on record!
 Susan Graham ~ Berlioz - Les nuits d'été
Hector Berlioz , John Nelson , Susan Graham , and Orchestra of the Royal Opera House
Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

All Works by BerliozAll Works by Berlioz | Berlioz, Hector | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
RomancesRomances | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
FrenchFrench | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
Classical MusicClassical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
Opera & VocalOpera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Susan Graham - La Belle Époque (The Songs of Reynaldo Hahn)
  2. Susan Graham - Mozart & Gluck Arias ~ Il tenero momento
  3. Artist Portrait: Susan Graham
  4. Susan Graham at Carnegie Hall
  5. "C'est ca la vie, c'est ca l'amour": French Operetta Arias

ASIN: B0000029U0
Release Date: 1997-07-15

Tracks:

  1. Les nuits d', Op. 7: I. villanelle
  2. Les nuits d', Op. 7: II. le spectre de la rose
  3. Les nuits d', Op. 7: III. sur les lagunes: lamento
  4. Les nuits d', Op. 7: IV. Absence
  5. Les nuits d', Op. 7: V. au cimeti re : clair de lune
  6. Les nuits d', Op. 7: VI. l'ile inconnue
  7. La Damnation De Faust, Op. 24: (d'amour l'ardente flamme) (Romance)
  8. Benvenuto Cellini: (mais qu'ai-je donc?) (Air)
  9. Les Troyens: (Ah ! Ah ! je vais mourir) (Monologue)
  10. Les Troyens: (adieu, fiere cite) (Air)
  11. Brice et Bdict: (dieu! que viens-je d'entendre?) (Air)

Amazon.com

On casual listen, Graham can seem like yet another pretty voice. And it is extremely pretty. But there's an intelligence and learnedness that can only make her more interesting as time goes on. As is, her performances are slightly undercooked, though there are some moments during Les Nuits d'été as passionate and committed as one could want. The arias added to fill out the disc aren't heard in optimal performances, but show what riches lie in Berlioz's neglected operatic output, namely Ascanio's lighthearted aria from Benvenuto Cellini and the long soliloquy from Beatrice and Benedict. --David Patrick Stearns

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars At its best as pure singing, but a little short emotionally.......2007-02-15

Generally I take David Hurwitz to be more a comedian than a critic, but he's on to something about mezzo Susan Graham's interpretations being "undercooked," if by that he means emotionally cool. Her Nuits d'Ete is impeccably sung--one can hardly imagine anyone else who possesses such perfect vocal technique in this music--but I wasn't very moved. Perhaps it's John Nelson's bland conducting, but the two of them move gracefully over the surface without penetrating into Berlioz's deeper feelings. The lesser-known inner songs, which are consistently melancholy, come off best; Graham really seems to give us the poetry with a full heart. If anyone strongly disagrees, I am happy to concede how wonderful Graham is, but I've always been touched by these songs as sung by de los Angeles, Janet Baker, Leontyne Price, and ohters. Not here. No matter how well you control your tone and phrasing, Berlioz needs passionate outbursts and real spontaneity. (For what it's worth, I had the same impression recently hearing Graham sing the cycle with Tilson Thomas and the San Francisco Sym., where she displayed, if anything, greater control and beauty of voice than even on this CD.)

At just over 60 min., this isn't the most generous recital, but the fillers are very well done. Nelson remains careful and bland, which doesn't help, D'amour l'ardente flamme needs more poignancy from all concerned, but Graham has lots of stage experience with Beatrice and Benedict, so that aria comes off well. It's not reasonable to say that anything here doesn't, but when Dido sings her death aria, I don't hear any dramatic stretch--Graham is applying the same middle-of-the-road pathos that gets applied almost everywhere else.





5 out of 5 stars A concerto for voice. Bravo!.......2006-05-16

Berlioz' 'Les Nuit's D'ete' and other pieces for the soprano voice, performed by Susan Graham, is one of my favorite CD's of female operatic / chamber song pieces, even though Ms. Graham is not as familiar to me as Renee Fleming or Anne Sophie von Otter.

Ms. Graham's collaboration with John Nelson directing the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House on the six songs based on poems by Theophile Gautier seem almost to be a concerto for soprano and orchestra, so well does Ms. Graham's voice fit into the orchesteral accompanyment.

The four pieces rounding out the 61 minutes on the disk are arias from four of Berlioz' operas, which seamlessly blend in with the title sextet of songs.

My French is weak, so there is little of the actual lyrics I understand without the translation, but you don't really need it to appreciate the musical talent on display here.

While I have not heard many other versions of this Berlioz song cycle, Graham's rendition is certainly the best in my experience.

Very enjoyable.

5 out of 5 stars Prime Berlioz from two most gifted advocates.......2005-07-09

Berlioz' song-cycle Les nuits d'ete has been deservedly fortunate in its representation on CD. With recordings by Crespin, Veronique Gens, Susan Graham, and Anne Sophie von Otter all top-flight musically and well-recorded, choice will be a matter of personal taste. I find Graham and Gens jostling most gracefully for my own affections. I have seen a criticism of Graham's disc to the effect that the voice tends to blanket the orchestra and obscure detail. I disagree. The balance is convincing and the sonics exceptional in their revelation of Berlioz' intoxicating orchestration. Moreover, in John Nelson Graham has, in my estimation, a successor to Monteux and Munch as monarch among Berlioz conductors. (Nelson's recording of Benvenuto Cellini, for instance, represents a huge advance over the pioneering Philips version.) Graham amazes not only with the beauty of her sound but with her uncanny empathy with the French esthetic, a rarity among American singers. I'm sorry but it's true; hard trying just won't do it. The disc includes arias from Berlioz' Faust, Cellini, Beatrice, and Troyens, all splendid. Particularly moving is Didon's farewell to Carthage from Les Troyens ("Adieu, fiere cite"); sampling that should let you know if this disc is for you. Since the Gens disc is completed by yet other Berlioz, three songs plus La mort de Cleopatre, you have a ready excuse for duplicating Les nuits, if your shelves can stand it.

-Frank W. Barham

5 out of 5 stars A Berlioz singer to treasure.......2003-10-12

I have taken a long time to get round to obtaining this recording. I noticed the other day that Graham is listed to sing her first Didon in the next couple of years. Not her first staged Berlioz, but probably the biggest single challenge for a soloist in this particular repertoire. It was for the opera arias, rather than the songs, that I wished to have this record.

But the song cycle is truly a knockout. These songs have long been a favourite, and just about every singer I can think of has had a go at them. Recent stand-out performances include Cecilia Bartoli, Ann Murray and, on record, Veronique Gens. The beauty of Berlioz is that the range and orchestration he uses, as well as the sheer potential for interpreting the lines, allows many different kinds of singer to tackle his work. Graham has perhaps the ideal Berlioz voice these days - a soprano-ish mezzo, with dark, brooding tone that can bloom into bright, sunny lines without strain. She is a really intelligent, thinking singer who uses words to colour the sound. Her partnership here with John Nelson is highly fruitful, and makes for a modern classic (to puit on the shelf with Norman, Gorr and Crespin, naturally).

No disappointments in the opera numbers either. Anyone who has heard her work in operetta (some lovely records out just recently, in fact) will recognise the sexy, teasing quality she brings to Benedict and to the Cellini number. Back on the tragic side of the coin, her Marguerite is suitably overwrought and the sense of regret she brings to the number is palpable. Dido is the pick of the bunch - rightly - and the combination of robust, furious tone and serene rememberance of her "nuit d'ivresse" is heart-stopping.

So - time to record Les Troyens with Graham, I believe. Not very sure who else would feature on this "Fantasy Recording" - answers on a postcard, please!

5 out of 5 stars The greatest "Nuits d'Ete" on record!.......2002-09-01

I have been listening to Berlioz' song cycle for nearly thirty years, and have heard most of the famous recordings: Teyte, Danco, de los Angeles, Steber, Janet Baker, Jessye Norman et al. Formerly, it was only Baker who penetrated the poetry of the lyrics...the "old" French style was to simply sing in a straightforward manner with no particular inflection, a style that Teyte and Danco worked to perfection. But the advent of such "chanson" singers as Gerard Souzay, Regine Crespin and Gabriel Bacquier changed all that, their approach was more specifically poetic. That is the approach that Graham uses here, and I find that it works beautifully.

Only in "Villannelle" does one hear the simple, straightforward style of Teyte or Danco. Almost immediately, in "Le Spectre de la Rose," one is hit with the meaning and feeling of Gautier's poetry...and one is literally swept away in the passionate performance of Graham and her conductor, John Nelson. I agree with the reviewer who said that the orchestra is somewhat recessed in sound, but Nelson brings out so many felicitous details that it inevitably doesn't matter....and, unlike Baker, Graham is a mezzo-soprano who can sing "Nuits d'Ete" in the original key, adding a soprano luster and sweep to her performances....and the opera arias are equally well sung. Highly recommended!!
Bizet: Carmen (Highlights) / Solti, Troyanos, Domingo
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Nice music, nice voices
 Bizet: Carmen (Highlights) / Solti, Troyanos, Domingo

Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

RomancesRomances | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
FrenchFrench | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
OperettasOperettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
Te Kanawa, KiriTe Kanawa, Kiri | Divas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
Troyanos, TatianaTroyanos, Tatiana | Divas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
London Philharmonic OrchestraLondon Philharmonic Orchestra | ( L ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
The Decca Records StoreThe Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music
$9.99 and Under$9.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
All Classical Music BlowoutAll Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
London Philharmonic OrchestraLondon Philharmonic Orchestra | ( L ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Troyanos, TatianaTroyanos, Tatiana | ( T ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Opera & VocalOpera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Verdi: Rigoletto (Highlights) / Sutherland, Pavarotti
  2. Puccini - La Bohème / Freni, Pavarotti, Harwood, Berlin Phil., Karajan [Highlights]
  3. Mozart: Le nozze di Figaro / Te Kanawa, Popp, Ramey, Solti [Highlights]
  4. Puccini: Tosca (Highlights) / Freni, Pavarotti
  5. Carmen / Troyanos, Domingo, van Dam, Te Kanawa; Sir Georg Solti

ASIN: B000006P4O
Release Date: 1998-05-12

Tracks:

  1. Carmen: Act I: Prelude
  2. Carmen: Act I: Mais nous ne voyons pas la Carmencita! ... - L'amour est un oiseau rebelle (Habanera)
  3. Carmen: Act I: Parle-moi de ma mere
  4. Carmen: Act I: Pres des remparts de Seville (Seguidilla)
  5. Carmen: Act II: Les tringles des sistres tintaientI
  6. Carmen: Act II: Vivat, vivat le torero! ... Votre toast (Toreador song)
  7. Carmen: Act II: Nous avons en tete une affaire
  8. Carmen: Act II: La fleur que tu m'avais jetee (Flower song)
  9. Carmen: Act II: Non! tu ne m'aimes pas!
  10. Carmen: Act III: Melons! Coupons!
  11. Carmen: Act III: Je dis que rien ne m'epouvante
  12. Carmen: Act IV: Les voici, les voici
  13. Carmen: Act IV: C'est toi! - C'est moi!

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Nice music, nice voices.......2000-06-15

This is Georges Bizet! He doesn't need any special advertising!
Mais
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Producers gone wild!!! Still good, but not her best
  • The best album from Marisa Monte
  • Great CD, fabulous singer
  • On her way...
  • Marisa is consistantly otima!
 Mais
Marisa Monte
Manufacturer: Blue Note Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

BrazilBrazil | South & Central America | International | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | International | Styles | Music
Afro BrazilianAfro Brazilian | Latin Music | International | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Latin Music | Styles | Music
Latin PopLatin Pop | Latin Music | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Jazz | Styles | Music
Latin JazzLatin Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Pop | Styles | Music
Blue Note RecordsBlue Note Records | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
GeneralGeneral | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music
$8.99 and Under$8.99 and Under | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
PopPop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
JazzJazz | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
InternationalInternational | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
All Blowout MusicAll Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
$8.99 and Under$8.99 and Under | Prices | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Memories, Chronicles and Declarations of Love
  2. A Great Noise
  3. Rose and Charcoal
  4. Tribalistas
  5. MM

ASIN: B000005HGS
Release Date: 1991-06-18

Tracks:

  1. Beija Eu
  2. Volte Para O Seu Lar
  3. Ainda Lembro
  4. De Noite Nacama
  5. Rosa
  6. Borboleta
  7. Ensaboa (Lamento Da Lavadeira)
  8. Eu Nao Sou Da Sua Rua
  9. Diariamente
  10. Eu Sei (Na Mira)
  11. Tudo Pela Metade
  12. Mustapha

Amazon.com

Marisa Monte's sophomore effort proved to be the breakout album for the young MPB (Brazilian popular music) diva. Adventurous and artful, the album took her where few had gone before, thanks to the production work of Arto Lindsay and musical contributions from John Zorn (both stalwarts of the avant-garde New York scene), as well as Japan's Ryuichi Sakamoto and fellow Brazilian Nana Vasconcelos. The result had all the airiness and grace of the best Brazilian music, as on "Beija Eu," but with rock and new jazz overtones shading the music and adding meat to the broth. Going platinum in Monte's native country, Mais made her into a real star. It also helped establish her musical identity as someone redefining Brazilian music in her own way. Mais is a triumph of art and the first really giant step in an illustrious career. --Chris Nickson

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Producers gone wild!!! Still good, but not her best.......2002-05-29

This is one of her older CD's, and even though it is quite a good CD it lacks the charm and distinction Marisa's music obtained in her later CDs. Fortunatley, you can find 3 of the better tracks on this album reworked on Barulho Bom (a Great Noise). Even better, all 3 tracks are done in very different fashions on Barulho Bom, and all 3 are better. For example, "De noite na cama" is almost silly sounding on this CD, while on Barulho Bom it is transformed into a very sexy song. This disc's main problem is the poor production quality (that also plagued much of MPB in the early 90's). The ambient noises on some of the tracks are so distracting and inappropriate to the feel of the music that they ruin several otherwise good tracks. For example, why are little girls (and monkeys?)screaming on "Tudo pela metade"? Seriously, it ruins the song. Who was responsible for this? And Ed Motta "singing" on Ainda Lembro, he sounds like one of Boys II Men gone wrong, trying to improvise and such. It borders on the absurd.The only highlight of this CD not on Barulho Bom is "Diariamente". Although this is a pretty good album on the whole( Marisa is amazing, as always), you would be MUCH better off just buying Barulho Bom. In fact, I HIGHLY recommend Barulho Bom- it is a GREAT CD!!!

5 out of 5 stars The best album from Marisa Monte.......2001-03-29

This is my favorite album from Marisa, and I love all of them. I don't like the fact that the lyrics on the US release are all in English (how are you supposed to sing along with that???) but I do like the fact that all the songs are sung in Portuguese. Usually I find when Marisa crosses the lingual divide, something gets lost in the translation, no pun intended! Actually, "Ensaboa" has some English in it, and is a really cool song, but it's purely accessory for a great Portuguese lyric. Don't get me wrong, though obviously I think Portuguese is a more musical language than English, I enjoy listening to other artists like Elis Regina when they take on my own language. Anyway, pretty much every song on this album is a winner - I can't peg her style down because she does borrow from various genres. Marisa is known as the "new voice of MPB" (Musica Popular Brasileira), and I hear alot of Samba-Cancao in there (lyrical sambas), so I would best sum it up as modern adult Brazilian pop. No, this is not for music teeny-boppers with attention deficits. The songs are intelligent, reflective, ironic at times, but most importantly catchy - which is the only reason to like music in the first place, in my opinion. The first song "Beija Eu" is the best one in my opinion, but the rest of the material is not too far behind in quality. Beyond good material, however, is this woman's vocal ability. Someone summed it up best earlier in the comparison with the "screaming" American "divas." From what I understand, Marisa was trained as an opera singer, and has adapted these talents very well to what has become a very unique style of pop music. Her voice is powerful and clear, yet subtle at the same time. I know that probably sounds idiotic for me to say it, you just have to hear it to know what I mean.

4 out of 5 stars Great CD, fabulous singer.......2000-09-14

Marisa Monte is indeed a rare occurrence in nowadays musical scene for her music doesn't know geographical nor time boundaries. Her music brings the signature Brazilian swing permeated by Jazz influences making it easily enjoyable for a broad audience. Marisa Monte not only promotes contemporary Brazilian songwriters but also nostalgically honors the best of Brazilian popular music tradition. Differently from the so called North American "Divas" that usually scream Marisa's soft but incredibly precise voice makes singing look easy.

4 out of 5 stars On her way..........2000-06-30

This was the CD that, for me, proved that Marisa's direction and style were superior. She moved on from the showtune-yness of her first album, head-first into a blend of Brazilian pop that is heartfelt, melodic and mood-enhancing. This is a must-have CD, and the only reason I give it 4 stars is that it's successor, "Rose & Charcoal", is still to this day her crowning achievement.

4 out of 5 stars Marisa is consistantly otima!.......1999-10-04

Mais is a great album. The only thing I didn't like was just having the english translations of the song lyrics in the booklet. Where's the portuguese? Or is American monolinguism dictating song books too? Excellent disc and a definite must-own for aficionados da Marisa.
Alkan: Piano Works; Ronald Smith
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Definitive?
  • WELL worth getting.
  • A Great Remastering!
  • Exceptional Pianist/Inspirational Composer
 Alkan: Piano Works; Ronald Smith
Charles Alkan , and Ronald Smith
Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
EtudesEtudes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
FantasiesFantasies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
PreludesPreludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
Character PiecesCharacter Pieces | Short Forms | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
NocturnesNocturnes | Short Forms | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
MarchesMarches | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
ToccatasToccatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
Chamber MusicChamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
PianoPiano | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Alkan: 12 Études, Op. 39
  2. Alkan: Grande sonate 'Les quatre âges', Sonatine, Le festin d'Esope
  3. Alkan: Symphony for solo piano
  4. Alkan: Piano Music, Volume 1: 12 Etudes, Op. 35
  5. Alkan: Sonate de Concert; Grand Duo Concertant; Piano Trio

ASIN: B0000CE7FF
Release Date: 2004-06-01

Tracks:

  1. Petit Conte
  2. Nocturne No.1, Op.22
  3. Gigue, Op.24
  4. Marche, Op.37 No.1
  5. Le Tambour Bat Aux Champs, Op.50 No.2
  6. XXIX: Delire
  7. XI: Morituri Te Salutant
  8. XX: Le Premier Billet Doux
  9. IV: Les Cloches
  10. XLI: Les Enharmoniques
  11. X: Increpatio
  12. XI: Les Soupirs
  13. XLVIII: En Songe
  14. Toccatina, Op.75
  15. IV: Allegro
  16. V: Marche Funebre (Andantino)
  17. VI: Menuet
  18. VII: Finale (Presto)
  19. I: Assez Gravement
  20. II: Andantino
  21. III: Menuet

Tracks:

  1. VIII: Allegro Assai
  2. IX: Adagio
  3. X: Allegretto Alla Barbaresca
  4. Maestoso -
  5. Allegro
  6. XIII: (Cantique Des Cantiques)
  7. XV
  8. XVI
  9. XI
  10. XII

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Definitive?.......2006-07-17

This version of the underappreciated work of Alkan should, in deference to Marc Andre Hamelin's amazing versions, should probably be the standard by which others are judged... in addition the album includes a great collection in one purchase.

5 out of 5 stars WELL worth getting........2006-05-19

This CD has what is still my favorite interpretation of Alkan's Concerto out of the three I've heard (although regrettably I haven't heard Jack Gibbons' version). Ogdon and Hamelin seem to kind of rush parts in order to impart a greater sense of technical bravura whereas Smith lets the power and majesty of the piece come through.
Also a great recording of the Alkan Symphonie. Hamelin's playing of the piece seems to have gotten all the attention but I find this one just right.
The prior two pieces would be reason enough to get any Alkan CD but this one is also loaded with a number of smaller gems, some of which it's probably going to be, what, twenty years before someone else makes a recording of any of them. The Petit Conte and Nocturne show Alkan's similarities to Chopin. The Toccatina is a delightful little piece with an awesome ending. Five great preludes, eight esquisses, etc. etc. - probably the best Alkan CD out there.

5 out of 5 stars A Great Remastering!.......2005-07-15

I own the original LP recordings of some of these works and the CD version. In a previous review I remarked how the CD sound quality was not the best, but adequate.

This remastering brings back much of the original vitality and great sound quality that was in the LP version but lacking in the CD version. And all at a bargain price too!

All Alkan (and Ronald Smith fans),don't hesitate to get this 2CD set. To have the symphony for piano and concerto in such fine quality sound again is a real treat for the ears.

Most highly recommended!

5 out of 5 stars Exceptional Pianist/Inspirational Composer.......2004-09-03

Ronald Smith died on the 27 May 2004 a week before I was due to hear him perform in concert at the age of 82. Obviously I was incredibly upset by his death and not having ever heard him play - especially ALKAN.

Ronald Smith was the man who re-established Charles-Valentin Alkan as one of the greatest composers of piano music. Busoni claimed "Alkan, alongside Chopin, Liszt, Schumann and Brahms, was one of the five greatest composers for the piano since Beethoven".

Of particular interest here is Ronald Smiths recordings of the Solo Piano Concerto and Symphony for Solo Piano. These are some of the most extraordinary compositions in musical literature.

Ronald Smith's recordings are exceptional and in my mind can only be equalled technically by Marc-André Hamelin performances of Alkan. Yet with this said Ronald Smith was the only virtuoso pianist who truly understood Alkans philosophy of music - hence smith's book on Alkan - The Man The Music.

This album is highly recommended to all music and piano playing enthusiasts.
The music is innovative, passionate; but not sentimental and incredibly interesting in structure, colouring and philosophy.
Forgotten Songs: Dawn Upshaw Sings Debussy
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Classic Art Songs Sung with Brilliance and Artistry
  • Pretty, but not memorable
  • Returning to the Recital Hall: A Soiree
  • Pretty sound spoiled by a bad vocal habit
  • Excellent!
 Forgotten Songs: Dawn Upshaw Sings Debussy

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Chamber MusicChamber Music | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
Vocal & SongVocal & Song | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by DebussyAll Works by Debussy | Debussy, Claude | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
Debussy, ClaudeDebussy, Claude | C to G | Featured Composers, A-Z | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
Modern & 20th CenturyModern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
Upshaw, DawnUpshaw, Dawn | Divas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
Classical MusicClassical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
Opera & VocalOpera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Angels Hide Their Faces: Dawn Upshaw Sings Bach and Purcell
  2. Knoxville Summer of 1915
  3. Voices of Light
  4. I Wish It So
  5. Dawn Upshaw Sings Rodgers & Hart

ASIN: B000002B6P
Release Date: 1997-03-18

Tracks:

  1. Vasnier Songbook: I. Pantomime
  2. Vasnier Songbook: II. Calmes dans le demi-jour (En sourdine)
  3. Vasnier Songbook: III. Mandoline
  4. Vasnier Songbook: IV. Clair de lune
  5. Vasnier Songbook: Fantoches
  6. Vasnier Songbook: VI. Coquetterie posthume
  7. Vasnier Songbook: VII. Romance - Silence ineffable
  8. Vasnier Songbook: VIII. Musique
  9. Vasnier Songbook: X. Paysage sentimental
  10. Vasnier Songbook: X. Romance - Voici que le printemps
  11. Vasnier Songbook: XI. La Romance d'Ariel
  12. Vasnier Songbook: XII. Regret
  13. Forgotten Melodies: I. C'est l'extase langoureuse
  14. Forgotten Melodies: II. Il pleure dans mon coeur
  15. Forgotten Melodies: III. L'ombre des arbres
  16. Forgotten Melodies: IV. Chevaux de bois
  17. Forgotten Melodies: V. Green (Aquarelle)
  18. Forgotten Melodies: VI. Spleen (Aquarelle)
  19. Five Poems Of Charles Baudelaire: I. Le Balcon
  20. Five Poems Of Charles Baudelaire: II. Harmonie du soir
  21. Five Poems Of Charles Baudelaire: III. Le Jet d'eau
  22. Five Poems Of Charles Baudelaire: IV. Recueillement
  23. Five Poems Of Charles Baudelaire: V. La Mort des amants

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Classic Art Songs Sung with Brilliance and Artistry.......2006-11-10

Dawn Upshaw possesses a voice with beautiful bell canto tonal quality and uses the glissando technique, only when effective, rendering this collection of uncommon art songs superbly sung. The entire album is a joy to listen to...

4 out of 5 stars Pretty, but not memorable.......2006-04-29

'Forgotton Songs, Dawn Upshaw sings Debussy' with James Levine at the piano is, to my layman's ear, very pretty to listen to, but not a whole lot to get excited about. If you are especially fond of Upshaw, you must have this recording. If you are especially fond of Debussy, other vocalists may have just a little more to offer. Everything about this recording is 'nice', just not a whole lot to get excited about.

5 out of 5 stars Returning to the Recital Hall: A Soiree.......2005-04-09

Dawn Upshaw is one of the most intelligent and creative and adventuresome singers on the concert stage today. Just reviewing the list of her recordings available and it is obvious that she has paid attention to both contemporary and established composers in a way that is truly refreshing.

Here the program is devoted to the works of Claude Debussy, a composer for whom Upshaw has a particular penchant. Her voice is crystal clear, perfectly focused and yet not afraid to animate when the lyrics demand. She covers three cycles here: 'Ariettes oubliees' (for this listener the most successful on the album), 'Racueil Vasnier', and 'Cinq Poemes de Charles Baudelaire' (contrast these with the recently released Susan Graham version and see what interpretation is all about!).

The collaboration between Upshaw and James Levine is sensitive (if not always the pianism of others..). But the entire recital is uplifting and satisfying for the variation in the songs, recorded sound, the generosity of the disc, and most of all for the musical intelligence in which these songs are performed! Grady Harp, April 05

2 out of 5 stars Pretty sound spoiled by a bad vocal habit.......2004-05-07

Every voice teacher I have ever had, and I have had many, were unanimous in their advice that sliding into notes is something that must be done with great moderation. Dawn Upshaw does it all the time and to the ears of a trained singer it becomes extremely annoying extremely quickly. Constant sliding into notes is less objectionable if one actually reaches the right pitch in the process. Miss Upshaw frequently does NOT, resulting in numerous instances where she is simply not in tune at all on some notes. Her sliding also creates constant dissonances with the piano which are entirely undebussyesque. If it were Webern or Berg she were singing she might get away with it. Here she does not. NOT RECOMMENDED.

P.S. Since writing this review (quite some time ago), I was fortunate to hear a recording of Ms. Upshaw in a production at the Metropolitan Opera where she didn't do any of her annoying sliding at all - not once - (probably because it was music from a much earlier time) The difference was astounding. It was a glorious performance. It was hard to believe it was the same person. This, more than ever, confirms my opinion that she ruined this recording with a bad singing habit.

5 out of 5 stars Excellent!.......2003-11-26

This recording of Debussy's Melodies are really excellent. Dawn Upshaw's voice is exactly right for this kind of music - light, charming, and lyrical, with real sensitivity to the text. The Ariettes Oubliees are the best I've heard, with the exception of Frederica von Stade. In addition, her interpretation of Mandoline from the Vasnier Songbook is perfect - the tempo, piano, voice, and interpretation are exactly right. My only criticism is that the diction, while perfectly clear, has an "American" accent that is sometimes distracting.
Beleza Tropical 2: Novo! Mais! Melhor!, Compiled By David Byrne
Average customer rating: 3 out of 5 stars
  • "Some" great cuts
  • Truly a great sampling of new Brazilian music
  • Very Good
  • "Eh"
  • Stinks
 Beleza Tropical 2: Novo! Mais! Melhor!, Compiled By David Byrne
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Warner Bros / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
Experimental RockExperimental Rock | Rock | Alternative Styles | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music
BrazilBrazil | South & Central America | International | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | International | Styles | Music
SambaSamba | Latin Music | International | Styles | Music
Afro BrazilianAfro Brazilian | Latin Music | International | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Latin Music | Styles | Music
Latin PopLatin Pop | Latin Music | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Pop | Styles | Music
Pop RockPop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
Progressive RockProgressive Rock | Progressive | Rock | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Brazil Classics, Vol. 1: Beleza Tropical
  2. Brazil Classics, Vol. 2: O Samba
  3. Red Hot and Latin Redux
  4. Tropicália 2
  5. Nova Bossa: Red Hot on Verve

ASIN: B00000DGUT
Release Date: 1998-11-10

Tracks:

  1. Madalena - Gilberto Gil
  2. Hoje Eu Quero Sair So - Lenine
  3. Nao Me Estrague O Dia - Os Paralamas Do Sucesso
  4. Ifa, Um Canto Pra Subir - Margareth Menezes
  5. Rios, Pontes & Overdrives - Chico Science & Nacao Zumbi
  6. O Estrangeiro - Caetano Velosa
  7. Tanacara - Gonzaguinha
  8. Curiosidade - Tom Ze
  9. Balanca Pema - Marisa Monte
  10. Batuque - Daniella Mercury
  11. Acho - Carlos Careqa
  12. What Is This? - Sergio Mendes
  13. Imagem - Arnaldo Antunes
  14. Pregoes Do Rio - Moleque De Rua
  15. O Seu Olhar - Arnaldo Antunes

Amazon.com

Ten years after Beleza Tropical Volume 1 turned the world on to the popular music of Brazil (MPB), along comes volume 2 to bring us up to date. The first volume did a great job covering the 1960s and '70s; volume 2 does an equally impressive job in focusing on the late '80s and the '90s. The MPB scene is as vibrant as ever. Elder voices of the movement like Gilberto Gil, Caetano Veloso, and Sergio Mendes have recently put out some of the best work of their careers, and you'll find wonderful examples of that here. The new generation of MPB stars are also amply represented--Marisa Monte, Daniela Mercury, the late Chico Science, Moleque de Rua, Os Paralamas Do Successo, and others all contribute excellent work. The songs incorporate the technological changes of the past decade and meld elements of rock, jazz, funk, reggae, and African music with the rich traditions of Brazil. The result is music that is coherent, edgy, and creatively compelling. This compilation is very well sequenced, so that it doesn't sound like a hodgepodge of styles, but instead flows flawlessly from tune to tune. --Jeff Grubb

Customer Reviews:

3 out of 5 stars "Some" great cuts.......2001-09-09

This is a fair album if we compare it to the first one. David leaves outside many great singers/groups like Daude, Suzano, even the great Ed Motta; and on the other hand, some cuts are not worth listing in a "Beleza" (Beauty)album. Anyhow, Gilberto Gil's cut is excellent among two or three more. I stick with the first one.

5 out of 5 stars Truly a great sampling of new Brazilian music.......2001-08-08

I was first introduced to Brazilian music with Byrne's Brazilian Classics, prefering above the others, the Beleza Tropical #1. After loving that album so much for so long, the first time I heard Beleza Tropical 2 I was disappointed. BUT now I LOVE this CD! I don't know what the others who reviewed this CD are griping about. This is a great CD with a lot of fun tracks and talented artsits. There's a lot of MPB I really don't like but there is not on song on this CD I don't think worthy of a compilation like this. Ever since buying this CD, I haven't gone back to the first one. It was time for me to update my tastes for Brazilian music.

4 out of 5 stars Very Good.......1999-12-24

It's very good to hear new artists like Carlos Careqa, Lenine and Arnaldo Antunes and of course the late Chico Science anthology of Brazilian music. I recommend to look for Carlos Careqa's MUSICA PARA FINAL DE SECULO and OS HOMENS SAO TODOS IGUAIS and CHICO SCIENCE'S AFROCIBERDELIA AND MANGUEBEAT. Congratulations to Luaka Bop.

2 out of 5 stars "Eh".......1999-10-27

The title read Novo! Mais! Melhor! and had David Byrne's name on it. But it was anything but the title. Actually I thought this was downright dull. There are loads of compilations with much more flair-- like Nova Bossa for old, Cuca Nova/Red Hot+ Rio for new renditions. Great artists like Mercury, Monte and Veloso are wasted on this-- they're why the CD has two stars instead of one. The only song I enjoyed was "What is This", but I would suggest buying Sergio Mendes' Brasileiro instead of this one. Disappointing CD.. save your money

1 out of 5 stars Stinks.......1999-10-06

This CD is pants. Unfortunately, the Amazon system doesn't allow you to give less than one star. The cover artwork is shite, there is absolutely nothing new on the record, and it's a total waste of time and money. As a statement about Brazilian music of the 90s, look no further than the fact that one of the tracks was written in the 60s. The title, for those who don't speak Portuguese, means new, more, better. It's old, less, worse. Guess Byrne's love affair with Brazil must have gone off the boil. Try Chico Cesar's CuzCuz Clã instead. Now that really is new, more, better
Alkan: 12 Études, Op. 39
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • The embodiment of FURY
  • Completely over the top!
  • Good alternative.
  • (No title).
  • An incredible recording! Gibbons' Alkan is superb!
 Alkan: 12 Études, Op. 39

Manufacturer: Asv Living Era
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

EtudesEtudes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
PreludesPreludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
Character PiecesCharacter Pieces | Short Forms | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
NocturnesNocturnes | Short Forms | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
Chamber MusicChamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
PianoPiano | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
BarcarollesBarcarolles | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Alkan: Grande sonate 'Les quatre âges', Sonatine, Le festin d'Esope
  2. Alkan: Symphony for solo piano
  3. Alkan: Piano Music, Volume 1: 12 Etudes, Op. 35
  4. Alkan: Piano Works; Ronald Smith
  5. Alkan: Sonate de Concert; Grand Duo Concertant; Piano Trio

ASIN: B0000030PK
Release Date: 1995-09-19

Tracks:

  1. Etude No.1: Comme Le Vent
  2. Etude No.2: En Rythme Molossique
  3. Etude No.3: Scherzo Diabolico
  4. Etude No.4: Sym-First Movt: Allegro
  5. Etude No.5: Sym-Second Movt: Marche Funebre
  6. Etude No.6: Sym-Third Movt: Menuet
  7. Etude No.7: Sym-Fourth Movt: Finale
  8. Nocturne in B, Op.22
  9. Allegro Barbaro: Etudes, Op.35 No.5
  10. Assez Vivement: Chants, Op.38 No.1
  11. J'etait Endormie, Mais Mon Coeur Veillait: Prlds, Op.31 No.13
  12. Le Staccatissimo: Esquisses, Op.63 No.2
  13. Les Cloches: Esquisses, Op.63 No.4
  14. Les Soupirs: Esquisses, Op.63 No.11
  15. En Songe: Esquisses, Op.63 No.48
  16. Gros Temps: Les Mois, Op.74 1st Ste No.1
  17. Barcarolle: Chants, Op.65 No.6
  18. La Chanson De La Folle Au Bord De La Mer: Prlds, Op.13 No.8
  19. Le Temps Qui N'est Plus: Prlds, Op.31 No.12

Tracks:

  1. Etude No.8: Con-First Movt: Allegro Assai
  2. Etude No.9: Con-Second Movt: Adagio
  3. Etude No.10: Con-Third Movt: Allegretto Alla Barberesca
  4. Etude No.11: Ov
  5. Etude No.12: Le Festin D'Esope

Amazon.com

Alkan's gargatuan Op. 39 Etudes embody a symphony (Etudes 4-7), a solo concertos (Etudes 8-10), an overture (No. 11), and a riotous set of 25 variations depicting the animals of Aesop's fables (No. 12, La festin d'Esope). The music demands boundless technique and stamina, which Jack Gibbons supplies in spades. He dives headfirst into the treacherous writing, letting the chips fall where they may. One can't really top Marc-Andre Hamelin's unflappable proficiency in the concertos, yet Gibbons rougher, leonine demeanor thrusts Alkan's Dionysiac qualities more to the fore. Bet you can't digest this yummy 12-plus course piano feast all in one sitting! --Dan Davis

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars The embodiment of FURY.......2004-09-24

Gibbons' occasional technical vulnerabilities give these performances a human edge missing from hamelin's recordings. Alkan's op39 is music the pianist must fight with. Blood and sweat are a must. Its raw fury can be lost when cooly presented (ala Hamelin). The symphony finale oozes raw excitement under Gibbons' hands. Like in a disaster movie, we root for the protagonist and hope he survives through to the end. A most rewarding experience.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

5 out of 5 stars Completely over the top!.......2003-08-04

The main differences between this recording and the only other complete recording of the minor key etudes by Ronald Smith are:

1. Superior sound
2. A virtuosity that must be heard to be believed. Gibbons plays fast, Gibbons plays loud, Gibbons plays soft, Gibbons plays all the notes, and all the while Gibbons plays them musically! A truly remarkable performance of some very complex music.

But the recording by Smith has much going for it too. In an ideal world, if you're a fan of Alkan, get both recordings. I've got them both!

5 out of 5 stars Good alternative........2002-11-02

It's a good alternative to Hamelin's recordings. With a really wilder approach!!

5 out of 5 stars (No title)........2000-12-15

Comme Le Vent, Like the wind, is a firey, unrelenting deluge of notes which, if played at Alkan's specified metronome marking, travels at the rate of 160 bars per minute -- 20 densely packed pages in just 4'30," and Gibbons falls unbelievably only 7 seconds short! En Rhythm Molossique and Scherzo Diabolico, both technically wicked compositions, receive commanding and sure-footed performances. The Symphony further demonstates Gibbons proficiency in adherence to tempo and metronome markings inspite of taxing athletic and visceral demands, giving it a great sense of impetus, space, and drive. The Concerto, in his hands, is less classical and crisp than Hamelin's, but more wildly romantic; an extraordinary feat of virtuosity. Le festin d'Esope and Allegro Barbaro in all their fiendish and barbaric virtuosity get very poetic readings, very rare indeed... The more slow pieces all fall within the heartbeat, receiving sensitive, simple, and atmospheric performances... Gibbons is an Alkan interpreter of exceptional authority, and I cannot wait until his next release (of anything). In excellent sound, this very generous two-CD set is a TOP recommendation!

5 out of 5 stars An incredible recording! Gibbons' Alkan is superb!.......1999-09-04

Alkan's Magnum Opus (39) has been seen recorded many times over the past years in part, as well as in whole. Jack Gibbons demonstrates that his interpretation of this monstrously challenging set stands at the very top of the list. Out of the 250+ CDs I own, I would have to say that this is the best. Gibbons' "Comme le Vent" is breathtakingly virtuostic and full of velocity. His "En Rythm Molossique" is a great wall of power and control, his "Scherzo Diabolique", feindish and scary. This recording of the "Symphonie" is fantastic, second only to Lewenthal's. His "Concerto" is very ordered, the finale a dazzling display of pianism (despite the missed note in the final black-key run). The "Ouverture" is the best recorded yet, and shows the true depth of Alkan's creations; I could write a review on just this piece! His "Festin" is a bit slow, but he never overexagerates the tempos. The other pieces added to the first disc ruin one's picture of the all-out-bravura crazed Alkan, replacing it with a sensitive, profound one. This CD is truly incredible. If you have any affection for Art Music whatsoever, this recording is a must have!
Complete Works for Solo Piano
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • wonderful music
 Complete Works for Solo Piano
Poulenc , and Parkin
Manufacturer: Chandos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

BoureesBourees | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music
Chamber MusicChamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Francis Poulenc Plays Piano Music of Satie & Poulenc
  2. Poulenc: Piano Works
  3. Bartok: Complete Solo Piano Music
  4. Gabriel Fauré: The Complete Music for Piano
  5. Poulenc: Complete Chamber Music, Vol. 3

ASIN: B00006JN9R
Release Date: 2002-10-22

Tracks:

  1. Suite For Piano In C Major: I Presto
  2. Suite For Piano In C Major: II Andante
  3. Suite For Piano In C Major: III Vif
  4. Adagietto (From Les Biches)
  5. Trois Mouvements Perpetuels: I Assez Modere
  6. Trois Mouvements Perpetuels: II Tres Modere
  7. Trois Mouvements Perpetuels: III Alerte
  8. Les Soirees De Nazelles-Suite For Piano: Preambule
  9. Les Soirees De Nazelles-Suite For Piano: Cadence
  10. Les Soirees De Nazelles-Suite For Piano: I Le Comble De La Distinction
  11. Les Soirees De Nazelles-Suite For Piano: II Le Coeur Sur La Main
  12. Les Soirees De Nazelles-Suite For Piano: III La Desinvolture Et La Discretion
  13. Les Soirees De Nazelles-Suite For Piano: VII Le Gout Du Malheur
  14. Les Soirees De Nazelles-Suite For Piano: VIII L'Alerte Vieillesse
  15. Les Soirees De Nazelles-Suite For Piano: Cadence
  16. Les Soirees De Nazelles-Suite For Piano: Final
  17. Intermezzo In A Flat Major
  18. Valse-Improvisation Sur Le Nom De Bach
  19. Trois Pieces: I Pastorale
  20. Trois Pieces: II Hymne
  21. Trois Pieces: III Toccata
  22. Badinage
  23. Napoli-Suite For Piano: I Barcarolle
  24. Napoli-Suite For Piano: II Nocturne
  25. Napoli-Suite For Piano: III Caprice Italien

Tracks:

  1. Humoresque
  2. Deux Novelettes: Novelette No. 1 In C Major
  3. Deux Novelettes: Novelette No. 2 In B Flat Minor
  4. Novelette Sur Un Theme De Manuel De Falla In E Minor
  5. Villageoises - Petites Pieces Enfantines: I Valse Tyrolienne
  6. Villageoises - Petites Pieces Enfantines: II Staccato
  7. Villageoises - Petites Pieces Enfantines: III Rustique
  8. Villageoises - Petites Pieces Enfantines: IV Polka
  9. Villageoises - Petites Pieces Enfantines: V Petite Ronde
  10. Villageoises - Petites Pieces Enfantines: VI Coda
  11. Improvisations: Improvisation No. 1 In B Minor
  12. Improvisations: Improvisation No. 2 In A Flat Major
  13. Improvisations: Improvisation No. 3 In B Minor
  14. Improvisations: Improvisation No. 4 In A Flat Major
  15. Improvisations: Improvisation No. 5 In A Minor
  16. Improvisations: Imrovisation No. 6 In B Flat Major
  17. Improvisations: Improvisation No. 7 In C Major
  18. Improvisations: Improvisation No. 8 In A Minor
  19. Improvisations: Improvisation No. 9 In D Major
  20. Improvisations: Improvisation No. 10 'Eloge Des Gammes' In F Major
  21. Improvisations: Improvisation No. 11 In G Minor
  22. Improvisations: Improvisation No. 12 'Hommage A Schubert' In E Flat Major
  23. Improvisations: Improvisation No. 13 In A Minor
  24. Improvisations: Improvisations No. 14 In D Flat Major
  25. Improvisations: Improvisation No. 15 'Hommage A Edith Piaf' In C Minor
  26. Deux Intermezzi: Intermezzo No. 2 In D Flat Major
  27. Deux Intermezzi: Intermezzo No. 1 In C Major
  28. Suite Francaise D'Apres Claude Gervaise: I Bransle De Bourgogne
  29. Suite Francaise D'Apres Claude Gervaise: II Pavane
  30. Suite Francaise D'Apres Claude Gervaise: III Petite Marche Militaire
  31. Suite Francaise D'Apres Claude Gervaise: IV Complainte
  32. Suite Francaise D'Apres Claude Gervaise: V Bransle De Chmpagne
  33. Suite Francaise D'Apres Claude Gervaise: VI Sicilienne
  34. Suite Francaise D'Apres Claude Gervaise: VII Carillon
  35. Presto In B Flat Major
  36. Melancolie
  37. Theme Varie: Theme. Tres Calme Et Sans Hate
  38. Theme Varie: I Joyeuse
  39. Theme Varie: II Noble
  40. Theme Varie: III Pastorale
  41. Theme Varie: IV Sarcastique
  42. Theme Varie: V Melancolique
  43. Theme Varie: VI Ironique
  44. Theme Varie: VII Elegiaque
  45. Theme Varie: VIII Volubile
  46. Theme Varie: IX Fantasque
  47. Theme Varie: X Sybilline
  48. Theme Varie: XI Finale
  49. Theme Varie: Coda. Molto Agitato

Tracks:

  1. Pastourelle
  2. Two Pieces From 'Les Biches': Rondeau
  3. Two Pieces From 'Les Biches':Andantino
  4. Feuillets D'Album: 1 Ariette
  5. Feuillets D'Album: 2 Reve
  6. Feuillets D'Album: 3 Gigue
  7. Piece Breve Sur Le Nom D'Albert Roussel
  8. Intermede
  9. Francaise
  10. Nocturnes: Nocturnes No. 1 In C Major
  11. Nocturnes: Nocturne No. 2 'Bal De Jeunes Filles' In A Major
  12. Nocturnes: Nocturne No. 3 'Les Cloches De Malines' In F major
  13. Nocturnes: Nocturne No. 4 'Bal Fantome' In C Minor
  14. Nocturnes: Nocturne No. 5 'Phalenes' In D Minor
  15. Nocturnes: Nocturne No. 6 In G Major
  16. Nocturnes: Nocturne No. 7 In E Flat major
  17. Nocturnes: Nocturne No. 8 'Pour Servir De Coda Au Cycle' In G major
  18. Valse In C Major
  19. Cinq Impromptus: 1 Tres Agite
  20. Cinq Impromptus: 2 Allegro Vivace
  21. Cinq Impromptus: 3 Tres Modere
  22. Cinq Impromptus: 4 Violent
  23. Cinq Impromptus: 5 Andante
  24. Bourree Au Pavillion D'Auvergne
  25. Caprice
  26. Promenades: 1 A Pied
  27. Promenades: 2 En Auto
  28. Promenades: 3 A Cheval
  29. Promenades: 4 En Bateau
  30. Promenades: 5 En Avion
  31. Promenades: 6 En Autobus
  32. Promenades: 7 En Voiture
  33. Promenades: 8 En Chemin De Fer
  34. Promenades: 9 A Bicyclette
  35. Promenades: 10 En Diligence

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars wonderful music.......2007-07-03

I listened to this disc collection at least a hundred times. Poulenc is a great composer and Eric Parkins interpretation is really enjoyable
Poulenc - Melodies / Ameling · Gedda · W. Parker · Sénéchal · Souzay · Baldwin
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Essential for the chansom junkie. Buy It.
  • Almost completely wonderful
  • Indisputable Gallic flair
  • Idiomatic, fresh, cleanly recorded
  • the best songs ever ruined by uneven performing
 Poulenc - Melodies / Ameling · Gedda · W. Parker · Sénéchal · Souzay · Baldwin
Francis Poulenc , Dalton Baldwin , Elly Ameling , Gérard Souzay , Nicolai Gedda , Michel Sénéchal , and William Parker
Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

All Works by PoulencAll Works by Poulenc | Poulenc, Francis | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by TartiniAll Works by Tartini | Tartini, Giuseppe | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
Chamber MusicChamber Music | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
General ModernGeneral Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
Vocal & SongVocal & Song | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
Modern & 20th CenturyModern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Soundtracks | Styles | Music
ClassicalClassical | Box Sets | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Debussy - Mélodies / Ameling · Mesplé · Command · Souzay · von Stade · Baldwin
  2. Fauré - Mélodies / Souzay · Ameling · Baldwin
  3. A French Song Companion
  4. Véronique Gens - Nuit d'étoiles (Mélodies Française) / Vignoles
  5. The Songs of Henri Duparc

ASIN: B000002S31
Release Date: 1992-01-23

Tracks:

  1. LE BESTIAIRE OU CORTEGE D'ORPHEE: I - Le Dromadaire
  2. LE BESTIAIRE OU CORTEGE D'ORPHEE: II - La Chevre Du Tibet
  3. LE BESTIAIRE OU CORTEGE D'ORPHEE: III - La Sauterelle
  4. LE BESTIAIRE OU CORTEGE D'ORPHEE: IV - Le Dauphin
  5. LE BESTIAIRE OU CORTEGE D'ORPHEE: V - L'ecrevisse
  6. LE BESTIAIRE OU CORTEGE D'ORPHEE: VI - La Carpe
  7. COCARDES: I - Miel De Narbonne
  8. COCARDES: II - Bonne D'enfant
  9. COCARDES: III - Enfant De Troupe
  10. 5 POEMES DE RONSARD: I - Attributs
  11. 5 POEMES DE RONSARD: II - Le Tombeau
  12. 5 POEMES DE RONSARD: III - Ballet
  13. 5 POEMES DE RONSARD: IV - Je N'ai Plus Les Os
  14. 5 POEMES DE RONSARD: V - A Son Page
  15. CHANSONS GAILLARDES: I - La Maitresse Volage
  16. CHANSONS GAILLARDES: II - Chanson A Boire
  17. CHANSONS GAILLARDES: III - Madrigal
  18. CHANSONS GAILLARDES: IV - Invocation Aux Parques
  19. CHANSONS GAILLARDES: V - Couplets Bachiques
  20. CHANSONS GAILLARDES: VI - L'offrande
  21. CHANSONS GAILLARDES: VII - La Belle Jeunesse
  22. CHANSONS GAILLARDES: VIII - Serenade
  23. AIRS CHANTES: I - Air Romantique
  24. AIRS CHANTES: II - Air Champetre
  25. AIRS CHANTES: III - Air Grave
  26. AIRS CHANTES: IV - Air Vif
  27. Epitaphe
  28. 3 POEMES DE LOUISE LALANNE: I - Le Present
  29. 3 POEMES DE LOUISE LALANNE: II - Chanson
  30. 3 POEMES DE LOUISE LALANNE: III - Hier
  31. 4 POEMES DE GUILLAUME APOLLINAIRE: I - L'anguille
  32. 4 POEMES DE GUILLAUME APOLLINAIRE: II - Carte Postale
  33. 4 POEMES DE GUILLAUME APOLLINAIRE: III - Avant Le Cinema
  34. 4 POEMES DE GUILLAUME APOLLINAIRE: IV - 1904
  35. 5 POEMES DE MAX JACOB: I - Chanson Bretonne
  36. 5 POEMES DE MAX JACOB: II - Cimetiere
  37. 5 POEMES DE MAX JACOB: III - La Petite Servante
  38. 5 POEMES DE MAX JACOB: IV - Berceuse
  39. 5 POEMES DE MAX JACOB: V - Souric Et Mouric
  40. 8 CHANSONS POLONAISES: I - La Couronne
  41. 8 CHANSONS POLONAISES: II - Le Depart
  42. 8 CHANSONS POLONAISES: III - Les Gars Polonais
  43. 8 CHANSONS POLONAISES: IV - Le Dernier Mazour
  44. 8 CHANSONS POLONAISES: V - L'adieu
  45. 8 CHANSONS POLONAISES: VI - Le Drapeau Blanc
  46. 8 CHANSONS POLONAISES: VII - La Vistule
  47. 8 CHANSONS POLONAISES: VIII - Le Lac

Tracks:

  1. 5 POEMES DE PAUL ELUARD: I - Peut - Il Se Reposer?
  2. 5 POEMES DE PAUL ELUARD: II - Il La Prend Dans Ses Bras
  3. 5 POEMES DE PAUL ELUARD: III - Plume D'eau Claire
  4. 5 POEMES DE PAUL ELUARD: IV - Rodeuse Au Front De Verre
  5. 5 POEMES DE PAUL ELUARD: V - Amoureuses
  6. A Sa Guitare
  7. TEL JOUR, TELLE NUIT: I - Bonne Journee
  8. TEL JOUR, TELLE NUIT: II - Une Ruine Coquille Vide
  9. TEL JOUR, TELLE NUIT: III - Le Front Comme Un Drapeau Perdu
  10. TEL JOUR, TELLE NUIT: IV - Une Roulotte Couverte En Tuiles
  11. TEL JOUR, TELLE NUIT: V - A Toutes Brides
  12. TEL JOUR, TELLE NUIT: VI - Une Herbe Pauvre
  13. TEL JOUR, TELLE NUIT: VII - Je N'ai Envie Que De T'aimer
  14. TEL JOUR, TELLE NUIT: VIII - Figure De Force Brulante Et Farouche
  15. TEL JOUR, TELLE NUIT: IX - Nous Avons Fait La Nuit
  16. 3 POEMES DE LOUISE DE VILMORIN: I - Le Garcon De Liege
  17. 3 POEMES DE LOUISE DE VILMORIN: II - Au-Dela
  18. 3 POEMES DE LOUISE DE VILMORIN: III - Aux Officiers De La Garde Blanche
  19. 2 POEMES DE GUILLAUME APOLLINAIRE: I - Dans Le Jardin D'anna
  20. 2 POEMES DE GUILLAUME APOLLINAIRE: II - Allons Plus Vite
  21. MIROIRS BRULANTS: I - Tu Vois Le Feu Du Soir
  22. MIROIRS BRULANTS: II - Je Nommerai Ton Front
  23. Le Portrait
  24. La Grenouillere
  25. Priez Pour Paix
  26. Ce Doux Petit Visage
  27. Bleuet
  28. FIANCAILLES POUR RIRE: I - La Dame D'andre
  29. FIANCAILLES POUR RIRE: II - Dans L'herbe
  30. FIANCAILLES POUR RIRE: III - Il Vole
  31. FIANCAILLES POUR RIRE: IV - Mon Cadavre Est Doux Comme Un Gant
  32. FIANCAILLES POUR RIRE: V - Violon
  33. FIANCAILLES POUR RIRE: VI - Fleurs

Tracks:

  1. BANALITES: I - Chanson D'orkenise
  2. BANALITES: II - Hotel
  3. BANALITES: III - Fagnes De Wallonie
  4. BANALITES: IV - Voyage A Paris
  5. BANALITES: V - Sanglots
  6. CHANSONS VILLAGEOISES: I - Chanson Du Clair Tamis
  7. CHANSONS VILLAGEOISES: II - Les Gars Qui Vont A La Fete
  8. CHANSONS VILLAGEOISES: III - C'est Le Joli Printemps
  9. CHANSONS VILLAGEOISES: IV - Le Mendiant
  10. CHANSONS VILLAGEOISES: V - Chanson De La Fille Frivole
  11. CHANSONS VILLAGEOISES: VI - Le Retour Du Sergent
  12. METAMORPHOSES: I - Reine Des Mouettes
  13. METAMORPHOSES: II - C'est Ainsi Que Tu Es
  14. METAMORPHOSES: III - Paganini
  15. 2 POEMES DE LOUIS ARAGON: I - C
  16. 2 POEMES DE LOUIS ARAGON: II - Fetes Galantes
  17. 2 POEMES DE GUILLAUME APOLLINAIRE: I - Montparnasse
  18. 2 POEMES DE GUILLAUME APOLLINAIRE: II - Hyde Park
  19. 2 POEMES DE GUILLAUME APOLLINAIRE: I - Le Pont
  20. 2 POEMES DE GUILLAUME APOLLINAIRE: II - Un Poeme
  21. Paul Et Virginie
  22. Mais Mourir
  23. Hymne
  24. 3 CHANSONS DE FEDERICO GARCIA LORCA: I - L'enfant Muet
  25. 3 CHANSONS DE FEDERICO GARCIA LORCA: II - Adelina A La Promenade
  26. 3 CHANSONS DE FEDERICO GARCIA LORCA: III - Chanson A L'oranger Sec
  27. Le Disparu
  28. Main Dominee Par Le Coeur
  29. CALLIGRAMMES: I - L'espionne
  30. CALLIGRAMMES: II - Mutation
  31. CALLIGRAMMES: III - Vers Le Sud
  32. CALLIGRAMMES: IV - Il Pleut
  33. CALLIGRAMMES: V - La Grace Exilee
  34. CALLIGRAMMES: VI - Aussi Bien Que Les Cigales
  35. CALLIGRAMMES: VII - Voyage

Tracks:

  1. Mazurka
  2. LA FRAICHEUR ET LE FEU: I - Rayon Des Yeux...
  3. LA FRAICHEUR ET LE FEU: II - Le Matin Les Branches Attisent...
  4. LA FRAICHEUR ET LE FEU: III - Tout Disparut...
  5. LA FRAICHEUR ET LE FEU: IV - Dans Les Tenebres Du Jardin...
  6. LA FRAICHEUR ET LE FEU: V - Unis La Fraicheur Et Le Feu...
  7. LA FRAICHEUR ET LE FEU: VI - Homme Au Sourire Tendre...
  8. LA FRAICHEUR ET LE FEU: VII - La Grande Riviere Qui VA...
  9. PARISIANA: Le Joueur De Bugle
  10. PARISIANA: Vous N'ecrivez Plus?
  11. Rosemonde
  12. LE TRAVAIL DU PEINTRE: I - Pablo Picasso
  13. LE TRAVAIL DU PEINTRE: II - Marc Chagall
  14. LE TRAVAIL DU PEINTRE: III - Georges Braque
  15. LE TRAVAIL DU PEINTRE: IV - Juan Gris
  16. LE TRAVAIL DU PEINTRE: V - Paul Klee
  17. LE TRAVAIL DU PEINTRE: VI - Joan Miro
  18. LE TRAVAIL DU PEINTRE: VII - Jacques Villon
  19. La Souris
  20. Nuage
  21. Dernier Poeme
  22. Une Chanson De Porcelaine
  23. LA COURTE PAILLE: I - Le Sommeil
  24. LA COURTE PAILLE: II - Quelle Aventure!
  25. LA COURTE PAILLE: III - La Reine De Coeur
  26. LA COURTE PAILLE: IV - Ba, Be, Bi, Bo, Bu
  27. LA COURTE PAILLE: V - Les Anges Musiciens
  28. LA COURTE PAILLE: VI - Le Carafon
  29. LA COURTE PAILLE: VII - Lune D'avril
  30. Toreador
  31. 4 CHANSONS POUR ENFANTS: I - La Tragique Histoire Du Petit Rene
  32. 4 CHANSONS POUR ENFANTS: II - Nous Voulons Une Petite Soeur
  33. 4 CHANSONS POUR ENFANTS: III - Le Petit Garcon Trop Bien Portant
  34. 4 CHANSONS POUR ENFANTS: IV - Monsieur Sans-Souci
  35. Fancy
  36. Colloque

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Essential for the chansom junkie. Buy It........2006-10-25

'Poulenc Melodies' performed by a really impressive lineup of vocal talent including Elly Ameling and Nicolai Gedda is exactly the kind of recording you need if you are compulsive about having 'complete' collections of things. This shows a range of composition which smaller releases such as single CD 'Voyage a Paris' (Hyperion, with Felicity Lott and Graham Johnson)can give us. For starters, many of these chansom showed a lot more evidence of more modern stylings and a far greater range of interpretation. In fact, I even had to check the lyrics in the included booklet to verify that on some songs, the performers were singing in French. Even though I have a smattering of knowledge of French, I would have sworn that the singers were performing songs in Russian.

I am happy that all four discs run for more than 60 minutes. No cheap short changing here. If you don't want to spring for the large set, the Hyperion release is great, but this is worth every penny.

4 out of 5 stars Almost completely wonderful.......2005-04-29

Its very considerable advantage lies in its completeness. Poulenc was one of the very greatest songwriters of any era. If you have no Poulenc songs in your collection, start here. The recommendation of Kruysen is a fine one, but only after you have heard this as a basis of comparison. Of Ameling, Senechal, Souzay, Gedda, and Parker, the only disappointment is Parker, who - I'll just say it - sings with his usual bleat. Souzay is a shade past it in vocal quality, but he still understands these songs as well as anybody, with great declamation (and that, after all, is what most of French singing is about). The dryness of the voice is nowhere close to disastrous, as it might have been in Italian opera. Indeed, it lends an air of life lived, without excuses. Gedda is okay. The standouts are Souzay, Ameling, and Senechal. Baldwin accompanies superbly.

5 out of 5 stars Indisputable Gallic flair.......2004-06-06

These performances are piquant and stylistically right on target. Even if Souzay is past his best here, he brings a lifetime of experience to bear and the other performers are wonderful. Ignore the curmudgeon who blasted this set. You will enjoy this tremendously if you love Poulenc.

4 out of 5 stars Idiomatic, fresh, cleanly recorded.......2001-05-12

This is a fine set. Dalton Baldwin accompanies each singer with clarity and zest. And who can resist the affectionate singing of the likes of Nicolai Gedda and Elly Ameling? The "melodies" themselves are magnificent--among Poulenc's finest creations. Whether you have other performances of these works or not, I think you'd be pleased with this beautifully recorded set. Certainly the 70's-vintage performances are more individual in profile, more "romantic," if you will, than those conjured by most of the "anonymous" singers of our own age. Recommended with enthusiasm.

2 out of 5 stars the best songs ever ruined by uneven performing.......2001-05-05

This is a warning for all Poulenc fans NOT to take the bargain route and purchase this immense collection -- you might think you're getting a great deal but: the singing and pianism is substandard and doesn't do the music justice (remotely). Songs like Bonne Journe'e or Ho^tel are all but ruined... Here's what to buy: Bernard Kruysen's CD of selected Poulenc masterpieces (favoring the Elouard settings)... nobody will ever come close to Kruysen in interpreting Poulenc. Avoid THIS CD. They still get 2 stars for (1) being encyclical and (2) delivering clear and even sound quality.

Jazz Music:

  1. Mayor of Punkville
  2. Mr Nice Guy [Original recording remastered] [Import]
  3. New Directions
  4. Night Train
  5. Not Afraid To Live
  6. Not for Nothin'
  7. One of a Kind
  8. Ornithology: Rare Recordings
  9. Perspective
  10. Rainforest Magic [Import]

Jazz Music

Jazz Music