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Artist: Helmut Lotti
Category: Music Average customer rating: Format: Import Media: Audio CD Number Of Discs: 1 UPC: 055490198027 EAN: 0055490198027 ASIN: B00004ZAT2 Release Date: 2000-09-19 |
Classics out of Africa
Tracks:
Album Description
2000 album for this immensely popular classic composer. This time around he is supported by the Golden Symphonic Orchestra. Tracks include such popular songs as 'Circle Of Life', 'Out Of Africa', 'The Lion Sleeps Tonight' & more. 17 tracksin all. * PleaseCustomer Reviews:
Stellar.......2003-09-18
This is one where you'll have to buy several copies........2002-09-20
My favorite Lotti CD.......2001-09-19
Fresh, Original Perspectives.......2001-07-30
The fact that Helmut chose to undertake such a project at all evidences an innovative spirit and a true interest in and respect for the African culture. He must have invested many hours in background research, linguistic coaching, and writing the additional English lyrics and music.
Let me proactively address those who might be indecisive about or even critical of this CD, wondering: "How dare a European record African songs? And he doesn't remain strictly faithful to the original versions." The answer: this was never meant to be an "indigenous" recording. Enjoy this album for what it is: a collection of original and accessible interpretations of great music, conceived with respect and research, and expanded into lush and beautiful arrangements, incorporating not only the solo voice but also vocal ensemble and orchestra.
For those (such as myself - I'm half Nigerian) not intimately familiar with South Africa's culture, this is an enjoyable introduction to some of the country's popular melodies. I recently re-watched a favorite old video, Paul Simon's GRACELAND, and was thrilled to now recognize some of the songs so marvelously (and more "traditionally") rendered by Miriam Makeba...and straightaway purchased her wonderful "Africa [Live]" collection. For those more knowledgeable from the outset, abandon yourself to the enjoyment of a magnificent male voice and a first-rate chorus and symphony, and rejoice in the fact that these songs continue to inspire people around the world to embrace them in their own way, and that they are being brought to a wider audience.
In addition, the sound production is of Piet Roelen's usual top-flight caliber. "Out of Africa" truly holds many pleasures. If the import price -- which really isn't that bad -- gives you pause, then save up for it, try Amazon Auctions, buy it from an international retailer (this can actually be cheaper), or put it on your Wish List and then e-mail everyone you've ever known. Bravo, Helmut.
An Excellent Display of Music!.......2001-05-30
Music:
Music CD
Cristo Vive en Mi ~ Conjunto Madrigal
La Danse Par Le Disque, Vol. 1: Barre & Milieu (Young Beginner's ~ Colette Astruc, Sylvia Padova
Victor Jazz-Dixieland Revival ~ Various Artists