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February 2009
Look for "Rick's Pick" 
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| CLASSICAL |
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| Title: |
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Piano Concerto no. 4; Piano & Wind Quintet |
| Label: |
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Naive
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Composer:
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Ludwig van Beethoven |
| Performer: |
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Francois-Frederic Guy; Orchestre Philharmonique de Radio France / Philippe Jordan |
| ISBN: |
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9786312569954 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00822186051481 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDNAIVV5148 |
| Cat.#: |
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V 5148 |
| Period: |
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Romantic |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Recordings of Beethoven's piano concertos aren't exactly hard to come by, but this series of releases featuring pianist Francois-Frederic Guy is turning out to be a real treasure. Guy and the Orchestre Philharmonique de Radio France give this work a burnished, glowing performance that never stints on emotional resonance but never succumbs to bombast either -- a ravishing performance of a ravishing work. The Opus 16 quintet for piano and winds is just as good. Highly recommended to all classical collections. (RA) |
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| $17.99 |
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| Title: |
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Twelve Flute Sonatas |
| Label: |
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Naxos
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Composer:
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Johan Helmich Roman |
| Performer: |
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Verena Fischer; Klaus-Dieter Brandt; Leon Berben |
| ISBN: |
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9786312614227 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00747313049271 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDNAXO8570492 |
| Cat.#: |
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8.570492-93 |
| Period: |
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Baroque |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
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Sweden may not be widely known for its heritage of baroque composers, but if the pieces on this excellent two-disc set are any indication, Johan Helmich Roman deserves more attention. His travels around England (prior to taking a court position in Stockholm) exposed him to a variety of compositional schools and helped him develop a personal style that was decorous and stately but also infused with wit. These twelve sonatas are written with the accomplished amateur in mind, and nicely evoke similar collections by Telemann. The playing is excellent, the recorded sound maybe just a little bit on the echoey side. (RA) |
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| $8.99 |
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| Title: |
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Violin Concertos |
| Label: |
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Naxos
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Composer:
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Franz Joseph Haydn |
| Performer: |
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Augustin Hadelich; Cologne Chamber Orchestra / Helmut Muller-Bruhl |
| ISBN: |
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9786312100706 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00747313048373 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDNAXO8570483 |
| Cat.#: |
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8.570483 |
| Period: |
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Classical |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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The brilliant young violinist Augustin Hadelich teams up with one of Europe's finest modern-instrument classical-era ensembles for this very fine account of Haydn's first, third and fourth violin concertos. Originally written for the virtuosic Luigi Tomasini, these pieces show Haydn's genius for wringing the last drop of technical ability from his soloists while keeping the music light, fresh, and effortlessly tuneful. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Dufay & the Court of Savoy |
| Label: |
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Hyperion (dist. Harmonia Mundi)
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Composer:
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Guillaume Dufay |
| Performer: |
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Binchois Consort / Andrew Kirkman |
| ISBN: |
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9786312712183 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00034571177151 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDHPONCDA67715 |
| Cat.#: |
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CDA 67715 |
| Period: |
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Medieval/Renaissance |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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The transitional years between the late medieval and early Renaissance periods offer some of the most striking vocal music in all of European history, and a good portion of it was written by Guillaume Dufay. This recording features his famous (and, it must be said, frequently-recorded) parody mass Se la face ay pale, but with a difference: the five sections of the Ordinary are interspersed with five stylistically contrasting Propers, and the program ends with two motets and the original ballad upon which the mass's cantus firmus was based. The Binchois Consort was made for this repertoire, as was the warm but dry acoustic of the All Souls College chapel, Oxford. Spectacular. (RA) |
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| $14.99 |
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| Title: |
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Serenade: Music For Saxophone & Piano |
| Label: |
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Sound Artist
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Composer:
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M. Zachary Johnson |
| Performer: |
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Brian Horner; Elizabeth Avery |
| ISBN: |
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9786312701187 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00634479836473 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDVICCSAR11646 |
| Cat.#: |
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SAR 11646-2 |
| Period: |
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Contemporary |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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M. Zachary Johnson has made a conscious choice to turn his back on the mainstream of academic music composition, and instead writes in a lyrical, sometimes nearly romantic style. These compositions for saxophone and piano (and for each of those instruments unaccompanied) evoke both the 19th and 20th centuries in their emotional directness, but also exhibit plenty of harmonic sophistication. Highly recommended to any collection serving users who may need to be reminded that there's still lots of good tonal music waiting to be written. (RA) |
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| $10.98 |
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| Title: |
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Wolf, Strauss, Rachmaninoff, Ives, Weill |
| Label: |
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Nimbus (dist. Allegro)
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Composer:
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Various Composers |
| Performer: |
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Dawn Upshaw |
| UPC: |
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0710357252129 |
| Cat.#: |
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NI 2521 |
| Period: |
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Romantic/20th Century |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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Reissue |
| Comments: |
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Apparently this was Dawn Upshaw’s first solo recording - originally released in 1988 by MusicMasters. It offers a program that provides an interesting variety of vocal repertoire. Ms. Upshaw performs all of it beautifully, along with her accompanist Margo Garrett. Liner notes include the original song texts (with English translations) and brief discussions of each song. (PS) |
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| $21.98 |
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| Title: |
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Six Suites for Solo Cello |
| Label: |
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Nimbus (dist. Allegro)
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Composer:
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Johann Sebastian Bach |
| Performer: |
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Wolfgang Boettcher |
| UPC: |
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0710357583421 |
| Cat.#: |
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NI 5834/5 |
| Period: |
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Baroque |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
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These are solid interpretations of Bach’s cello suites and a nice addition to the many recordings of these pieces. Mr. Boettcher plays them with character and finesse. He remarks in the liner notes, along with brief descriptions of each sonata, about his preparation for, and study of, these pieces which includes the use of certain baroque techniques: articulation, embellishment, and a period bow. The recording itself sounds beautiful – a warm rich sound from Mr. Boettcher’s instrument, and an obviously excellent recording space. (PS) |
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| Title: |
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La Primavera: Cantate per una Primadonna |
| Label: |
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Phoenix Edition (dist. Naxos)
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Composer:
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Joseph Martin Kraus |
| Performer: |
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Simone Kermes; L'Arte del Mondo / Werner Erhardt |
| ISBN: |
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9786312236429 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00811691011011 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDPHNX101 |
| Cat.#: |
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101 |
| Period: |
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Classical |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Kraus, a contemporary of Mozart, isn't exactly a forgotten composer -- but his work hasn't gotten the attention it deserves, either. This is a world-premiere recording of his four Italian cantatas, along with the overture and selections from incidental music he wrote to accompany Voltaire's five-act tragedy Olympie. The performances are excellent, and the solo work by the fine coloratura soprano Simone Kermes is especially noteworthy. A must for any comprehensive classical collection. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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San Marco in Hamburg: Motets by Hieronymus Praetorius |
| Label: |
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CPO (dist. Naxos)
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Composer:
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Hieronymus Praetorius |
| Performer: |
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Weser-Renaissance / Manfred Cordes |
| ISBN: |
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9786312224198 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00761203724529 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDCPO 777245 |
| Cat.#: |
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777 245-2 |
| Period: |
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Renaissance |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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The rich, multilayered sound of Hieronymus Praetorius's (no relation to Michael) sacred music remains one of the most glorious products of the German Renaissance. On this wonderful set of sacred motets, choral voices are cushioned and lifted by swelling sackbuts and cornets, while the voices themselves cascade in meltingly sweet canonic counterpoint. Very highly recommended to all early music collections. (RA) |
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| $16.98 |
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| Title: |
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An Italian Sojourn |
| Label: |
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Cedille (dist. Allegro)
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Composer:
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Various Composers |
| Performer: |
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Rachel Barton Pine; Trio Settecento |
| ISBN: |
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9786311532706 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00735131909921 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDCED 99 |
| Cat.#: |
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CDR 90000 099 |
| Period: |
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Baroque |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Violinist Rachel Barton Pine has always taken a slightly unusual approach to period-instrument performances, using a combination of modern and ancient instruments and playing techniques. Here, with her Trio Settecento, she has chosen a program of trio sonatas in the Italian style (though not exclusively by Italian composers), and plays them with her usual vivacity and enviable clarity of tone. Excellent, as always. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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The Perilous Night: Aki Takahashi Plays John Cage |
| Label: |
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Camerata (dist. Albany)
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Composer:
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John Cage |
| Performer: |
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Aki Takahashi |
| ISBN: |
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9786312535843 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00490355003502 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDCATACAM28142 |
| Cat.#: |
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CMCD-28142 |
| Period: |
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20th Century |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Like (I suspect) many others, I find John Cage's conventionally-composed music to be much more compelling than most of his experiments with chance. Combinations of the two can be especially interesting, and when the music is written for prepared piano I get really excited. When Aki Takahashi is the pianist, so much the better. Here she takes on a mixed program of pieces Cage wrote between 1943 and 1969, including such, er, popular favorites as Cheap Imitation and the title composition. The timbral crazy-quilt created by the piano preparations is always both startling and intriguing, and Takahashi's feel for this music is unparalleled. Essential. (RA) |
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| COUNTRY/FOLK |
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| Title: |
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Johnny Cash Remixed |
| Label: |
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Compadre (dist. Fontana)
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Artist:
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Various Artists |
| ISBN: |
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9786312452119 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00616892951223 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDCMPD9295122 |
| Cat.#: |
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COMDJ33-2 |
| Genre: |
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Country & Western/Electronica |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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The program opens with a funked-up remix of "I Walk the Line," over which Snoop Dogg raps. That is all ye know and all ye need to know. (RA) |
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| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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Let the Circle Be Wide |
| Label: |
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Appleseed
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Artist:
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Tommy Sands |
| ISBN: |
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9786312712688 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00611587111425 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDAPPL1114 |
| Cat.#: |
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APR CD 1114 |
| Genre: |
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Folk |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Former member of the legendary Irish band the Sands Family, Tommy is now accompanied by his daughter Moya and son Fionan. Firmly in the Irish musical tradition, Sands’ songs address social and political concerns in his native Ireland, to the extent that he’s been dubbed the “The Bard Of Peace.” His mixture of politics, music, and love of traditional musical forms have drawn favorable comparisons to Pete Seeger. (GH) |
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| $15.99 |
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| Title: |
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Haymaker! |
| Label: |
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Yep Roc (dist. Redeye)
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Artist:
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Gourds |
| ISBN: |
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9786312661221 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00634457219526 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDYP 2195 |
| Cat.#: |
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YEP 2195 |
| Genre: |
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Country/Rock |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Agreeably loose and greasy Texas-style country-rock from this Austin combo. Gourds songs sidestep the country mainstream by virtue of unusually weird and abstract lyrics (possums yes, boots yes, but also references to Geddy Lee and "phantasy"), not to mention what seems like a slightly perverse avoidance of the easy hook. If you like hipster country but are tired of the No Depression crowd, let the Gourds shake you up just a little bit. (RA) |
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| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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Pete Seeger at 89 |
| Label: |
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Appleseed
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Artist:
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Pete Seeger |
| ISBN: |
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9786312400288 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00611587111326 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDAPPL1113 |
| Cat.#: |
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APR Cd 1113 |
| Genre: |
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Folk |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Pete Seeger’s recording career dates back to 1951 (!), so it’s really no surprise that his latest offering on the esteemed Appleseed label casts him in the role of venerable sage, the wizened and articulate grandfather of the American folk revival movement. With a handful of spoken word annotations, some older gems from his catalog, and some timely newer numbers, …At 89 is a bountiful sampling of Seeger’s progressive vision, his timeless humanity and his deep reverence for the folk tradition. (GH) |
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| $18.98 |
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| Title: |
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In the Pines: Tar Heel Folk Songs & Fiddle Tunes: Old-Time Music of North Carolina 1926-1936 |
| Label: |
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Old Hat (dist. City Hall)
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Artist:
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Various Artists |
| ISBN: |
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9786312275725 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00670725100622 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDOKCT1006 |
| Cat.#: |
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CD-1006 |
| Genre: |
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Folk Music |
| Release type: |
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Compilation |
| Comments: |
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If you like your country music mostly unvarnished, this collection of North Carolina recordings from 1926-1936 is just the ticket. Featuring solo artists like Dock Walsh, duos such as Grayson & White, and string bands like the Carolina Buddies, this selection of two dozen expertly remastered tracks presents a picture of a changing South. These great songs by talented but mostly forgotten artists will appeal anyplace where the “O, Brother” soundtrack was popular, as well as where old-time music fans congregate. (JW) |
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| Title: |
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Alligator Purse |
| Label: |
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Yep Roc (dist. Redeye)
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Artist:
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Beausoleil |
| ISBN: |
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9786312693529 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00634457218529 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDYP 2185 |
| Cat.#: |
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YEP 2185 |
| Genre: |
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Cajun |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Expect demand for the latest from America's foremost traditional (and sometimes semi-traditional) Cajun ensemble, led by national treasure Michael Doucet. There's something hard at the core of this album -- an air of slightly grim determination that gives the songs an unusual edge, and it works very well. Note, by the way, the J.J. Cale and Bobby Charles covers, and the Memphis-y horn section on "Valse a Beausoleil." Brilliant. (RA) |
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| JAZZ |
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| $15.98 |
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| Title: |
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Act Your Age |
| Label: |
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Immergent
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Artist:
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Gordon Goodwin's Big Phat Band |
| ISBN: |
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9786312401445 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00676628114728 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDIMGT81147 |
| Cat.#: |
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281147-2 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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It’s hard to act your age with an 18-member group that varies from young lions to old timers, but this group provides a funky, boisterous good time in any case. Stretching beyond the boundaries of the usual big band fare, and produced by Lee Ritenour, saxophonist Goodwin adds elements of funk, pop, and lots of guest stars, including Patti Austin, Chick Corea, Dave Grusin, and even a virtual Art Tatum. An additional DVD includes surround-sound versions of the CD tunes, concert footage, conversations with key artists, and lots of extras. This one will have crossover appeal beyond big band fans. (JW) |
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| Title: |
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Last Night The Moon Came Dropping Its Clothes In The Street |
| Label: |
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ECM
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Artist:
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Jon Hassell |
| ISBN: |
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9786312727477 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00602517926363 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDUMG B001257302 |
| Cat.#: |
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B0012573-02 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Jon Hassell's trademark sonic elements are all here: smeary, severely altered trumpet sounds; an electro-acoustic instrumental setting that seems to float more than it flows; melodies that are built on faintly exotic scales that hint at the presence of jungle terrors: poisonous flora, panthers hidden in the bushes, etc. But this album has an unusually gentle and almost reassuring flavor that is hard to put one's finger on. A perfect album for a rainy day, a good book, and a mug of something hot. (RA) |
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| $12.99 |
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| Title: |
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Dragon's Head |
| Label: |
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Firehouse 12
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Artist:
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Mary Halvorson Trio |
| UPC: |
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616892975120 |
| Cat.#: |
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FH12-04-01-007 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Guitarist and Anthony Braxton alumnus Halvorson works here with bassist John Hebert and drummer Ches Smith to present a fascinating set of pieces on the avant-garde side. The compositions are all hers, and she enjoys experimenting with unusual rhythms, textures, and contrasts. Melodic passages are interwoven with denser, rhythmically challenging segments, all to good effect. The musicians work well together and collectively create a good balance of structure and free improvisation. Full of surprises, this is an excellent one for guitar fans. (JW) |
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| $15.98 |
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| Title: |
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Andarta |
| Label: |
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Origin
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Artist:
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Roy Assaf & Eddy Khaimovich Quartet |
| ISBN: |
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9786312284109 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00805558251528 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDORGN82515 |
| Cat.#: |
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82515 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Granted, the group doesn’t have the catchiest name, but give them a chance. This pianist and bassist are joined by Ronen Itzik on drums and saxophonist Robin Verheyen to create a distinctive debut, with some help on several tracks from Roy Hargrove. They mix rhythmic complexity and harmonic experimentation into the mix without losing sight of the post-bop verities. The leaders leave plenty of space for solos as well as interaction, and everyone plays with emotion. This is a thoroughly enjoyable set, with lots of variety, and should appeal to most jazz fans. (JW) |
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| Title: |
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Two Men with the Blues |
| Label: |
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Blue Note
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Artist:
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Willie Nelson and Wynton Marsalis |
| ISBN: |
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9786312105589 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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05099950445424 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDBNOT04454 |
| Cat.#: |
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04454 |
| Genre: |
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Country & Western |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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On the evenings of January 12th and 13th, 2007, these two American musical icons performed together for the Jazz at Lincoln Center series and this recording captures some of the endearing magic. Jazz fans may find Nelson’s vocals and guitar solos not so much to their taste, while country music fans may feel the same way about the jazz setting in which all of these songs are presented. But fans of both should be delighted, since this is an enjoyable and profoundly American recording. (CLHD) |
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| $15.98 |
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| Title: |
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Farewell Walter Dewey Redman |
| Label: |
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Capri
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Artist:
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Mark Masters |
| ISBN: |
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9786311846605 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00549874089228 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDCPRI74089 |
| Cat.#: |
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74089-2 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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This tribute to the great avant-garde tenor saxophonist Dewey Redman (cohort of Ornette Coleman and others, as well as father to Joshua) features twelve horns and a rhythm section arranged and conducted by Mark Masters. Wavering between tightly controlled ensemble sections and free blowing, and fronted by such stellar musicians as drummer Peter Erskine and alto sax giant Oliver Lake, this explosive outfit sizzles on a mixture of Redman tunes and originals in the Redman style. Great playing, great charts, great CD – Mr. Redman would be justifiably proud. (GH) |
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| $10.98 |
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| Title: |
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Live At The Museum Of Modern Art |
| Label: |
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Verve
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Artist:
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Milt Jackson |
| ISBN: |
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9786312141532 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00602517686298 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDUMG B001122102 |
| Cat.#: |
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B0011221-02 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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Reissue |
| Comments: |
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This performance was part of a free concert series that was featured by MOMA during the 1960s and hasn’t been available on record in the U.S. since the early 1970s. Thankfully, Verve has brought it back to us in their Originals series. Milt Jackson is joined by James Moody, Cedar Walton, Ron Carter, and Candy Finch. The pieces on the program were mainly composed by members of the group - be sure to check out “Flying Saucer.” Original liner notes and artwork are included.(PS) |
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| Title: |
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Driftwoods |
| Label: |
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Tompkins Square (dist. Fontana)
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Artist:
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Ran Blake |
| ISBN: |
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9786312693215 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00894807002097 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDTPKS2097 |
| Cat.#: |
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TSQ2097 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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This is a quiet gem of an album, a slow and meditative set of reflections by legendary pianist Ran Blake on singers he has admired: Billie Holiday, Mahalia Jackson, Hank Williams, Nat King Cole, and others. He honors them not (thank heaven) by singing, but by playing what are sometimes rather strange but always warm and ultimately very touching solo piano arrangements of songs either written by or famously performed by them. In several cases, what start out sounding like melodically abstract (or even dissolute) settings eventually come into focus as carefully thought-out and deeply personal interpretations of these familiar melodies. Moving and wonderful. (RA) |
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| $20.00 |
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| Title: |
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4 Jokers in the Pack |
| Label: |
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Jazz-Network
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Artist:
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Echoes of Swing |
| UPC: |
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4042064002770 |
| Cat.#: |
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EOSP 4505 2 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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[PLEASE NOTE: The price quoted above is in Euros; this item can be downloaded via Amazon for $8.99, or you can get a physical copy for 20 euros by ordering through the website. POs are welcome.] This is a completely delightful and rather unusual set of new and old jazz compositions in a swing style played by a bass-less quartet with a strange drum configuration. The arrangements will be of great interest to any jazz program, but the quartet's combination of gentle virtuosity and unassailable swing are what make this disc such a wonderful listen -- it's well worth the effort necessary to acquire it. (RA) |
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| ROCK/POP |
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| $12.99 |
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| Title: |
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I Think We're Gonna Need a Bigger Boat |
| Label: |
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Southern Fried (dist. Redeye)
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Artist:
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Brighton Port Authority |
| ISBN: |
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9786312733348 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00634457505322 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDSNFD001 |
| Cat.#: |
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SFR-001 |
| Genre: |
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Pop/Rock Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Norman Cook takes a step back from the big beat of Fatboy Slim for this smaller-scale project. Those expecting another “Weapon of Choice” are in for a surprise. Gone is the barrage of samples and drum loops, replaced bymore traditional instruments, more intimate arrangements and a bevy of star vocalists. Iggy Pop brings his growl. David Byrne brings his quirkiness. “Island” features Justin Robertson channeling Jarvis Cocker’s louche delivery and a guitar riff lifted from New Order. It all wraps up with “So It Goes,” an update of the Nick Lowe classic. (MC) |
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| $13.00 |
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| Title: |
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Sideshow Freak |
| Label: |
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Amplifrier Music
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Artist:
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Steven Wright-Mark |
| UPC: |
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859701026457 |
| Cat.#: |
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AMC 0308 |
| Genre: |
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Rock/Pop |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Power pop is one of those genres that you don't realize how much you miss until you hear a great example of it, and suddenly remember how long it's been. Steven Wright-Mark's songs are perfect nuggets of crunchy-sweet goodness, and to make it all even more impressive, he sings all the parts and plays all the instruments on this fantastic album. If you remember the Smithereens and the dBs with fondness, if you wish the Rubinoos had a little more muscle, if you love singing harmonies in the car, then this disc is for you -- and it's definitely for your patrons. (You can order at the link above; purchase orders are welcome.) (RA) |
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| $15.98 |
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| Title: |
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L'Anche a Deux Cordes: Musique Traditionnelle du Quebec |
| Label: |
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Gala (dist. Albany)
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Artist:
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L'Anche a Deux Cordes |
| ISBN: |
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9786312596820 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00777078912732 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDGALAGAL102 |
| Cat.#: |
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UM2782 |
| Genre: |
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French Canadian |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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The melancholy beauty of traditional Quebecois dance tunes is spiced up with rollicking, swinging arrangements on this recording by accordionist Frank Sears, guitarist Sebastien Deshaies, and bassist Marc Benoit. Their approach is so jazzy that the tunes end up sounding like the repertoire of La Bottine Souriante as interpreted by Django Reinhardt. That's a compliment. Don't play this one out loud unless you want to see patrons dancing in the stacks. (RA) |
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| $16.98 |
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| Title: |
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Buzzz |
| Label: |
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Ipecac (dist. Fontana)
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Artist:
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Tipsy |
| ISBN: |
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9786312513391 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00689230010326 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDIPCC103 |
| Cat.#: |
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IPC103 |
| Genre: |
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Dance, DJ |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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David Gardner and Tim Digulla (recording as Tispy) call their music "DrunkTronica," an only semi-ironic homage to the cocktail-chic music of Esquivel and of subsequent Japanese lounge revivalists. Funky, sometimes dubby, frequently leavened with cheesy organ sounds, twangy guitars and groovy vibraphones, this music is the perfect accompaniment to your next retro-themed staff party. (RA) |
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| $12.98 |
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| Title: |
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All-Night Lotus Party |
| Label: |
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Merge (dist. ADA)
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Artist:
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Volcano Suns |
| ISBN: |
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9786312685708 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00673855033723 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDMERG50337 |
| Cat.#: |
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MRG337 |
| Genre: |
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Pop/Rock Music |
| Release type: |
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Reissue |
| Comments: |
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More popular but less revered than drummer Peter Prescott’s earlier band Mission of Burma, the Volcano Suns were nonetheless a touchstone of ‘80s indie rock. Their sophomore release opens vividly with the buzzy, metallically abrasive guitar riff of “White Elephant.” Other songs are calmer and more spacious, but the unifying theme is shambling looseness, great rumbling bass lines and shouting that conveys agitation, not anger. On CD for the first time with bonus tracks nearly doubling the original song count, it includes a Beatles cover and the excellent “Greasy Spine.” (MC) |
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| $18.98 |
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| Title: |
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Brighten The Corners: Nicene Creedence Edition |
| Label: |
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Matador (dist. ADA)
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Artist:
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Pavement |
| ISBN: |
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9786312513902 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00744861080527 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDMATR10805 |
| Cat.#: |
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OLE-805 |
| Genre: |
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Pop/Rock Music |
| Release type: |
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Reissue (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
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Was Pavement the greatest rock band of the 90s? Matador Records has been making that case with deluxe two-disc reissues of each of their albums, and this edition of 1997’s Brighten the Corners is the fourth in the series. Fans of the band are unlikely to choose this album as their favorite, but it shows Pavement graduating from intermittent shambolic brilliance to a more professional sound. In addition to the twelve remastered tracks from the original album, this set contains 10 non-album B-sides, 10 out-takes, and 14 live radio session tracks, plus a 62-page booklet. The entire series is recommended for libraries that collect rock music. (SA) |
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| $18.98 |
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| Title: |
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Last Days At the Lodge |
| Label: |
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Blue Note
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Artist:
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Amos Lee |
| ISBN: |
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9786312105558 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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05099950122523 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDBNOT01225 |
| Cat.#: |
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02115 |
| Genre: |
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Pop/Rock Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Singer/songwriter Amos Lee’s third album, Last Days at the Lodge, presents an eclectic selection of songs featuring his acoustic guitar and soulful vocals accompanied by other instruments. While Lee’s pleasing vocals hold the disparate songs together as an album, the songs vary from rockers to soul numbers to more typical singer/songwriter songs. The lyrics are interesting, the musicians (including Spooner Oldham on keyboards) are excellent, and the production by Don Was is always appropriate to the style the individual song borrows most heavily from. This is an enjoyable, but not quite remarkable album by a young and promising performer. (CLHD) |
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| $16.98 |
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| Title: |
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Who? |
| Label: |
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MPM/Groove Attack
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Artist:
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Circle Research |
| ISBN: |
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9786312652762 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00673793306125 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDGATP933061 |
| Cat.#: |
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MPM 061 |
| Genre: |
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Rap, Hip-Hop |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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The Toronto-based DJ team of Astro and Nik T has produced a fun little oddity here: a 38-minute long hip-hop mixtape program that incorporates samples from no fewer than 36 classic tracks. Chugging along at a consistent and swaggering 100 bpm, this disc offers lots of tasteful turntable flourishes, witty spoken-word samples, and powerfully funky hip hop beats. Very nice. (RA) |
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| $16.98 |
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| Title: |
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Mushroom Jazz, Vol. 6 |
| Label: |
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Om (dist. ADA)
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Artist:
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Mark Farina |
| ISBN: |
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9786312443780 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00600353081529 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDOM 30815 |
| Cat.#: |
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OM-315 |
| Genre: |
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Electronica |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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This is not jazz in the traditional sense, but ‘deep’ house music with a jazzy tinge. DJ Mark Farina has been specializing in this San Francisco version of downtempo hip-hop – soulful, dubby, and mostly instrumental – since the early 90s, and this is the sixth in a series of mix albums that began as a weekly club night. Farina’s work is consistently good, which means that any volume in the series will work equally well as an introduction to his style. His solo production, 1993’s Air Farina, is also recommended. (SA) |
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| WORLD/ETHNIC |
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| $16.98 |
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| Title: |
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Radio Retaliation |
| Label: |
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ESL (dist. Fontana)
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Artist:
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Thievery Corporation |
| ISBN: |
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9786312331391 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00795103014022 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDESLR140 |
| Cat.#: |
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ESL 140 |
| Genre: |
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Dance, DJ |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Thievery Corporation, a D.C.-based DJ and production duo, emerged about ten years ago, after the great chill-out/trip-hop scare of the mid 90s, but they have always had a more idiosyncratic take on the style, one that was more international, or ‘outernational,’ as they call it, and more political. Radio Retaliation expands their use of guests vocalists, and many different languages and accents can be heard here – Indian, West Indian, Brazilian, African, Afro-American, and European – but they blend it all together into a framework that makes sense on its own terms. This is an album that proves that music can be both beautiful and engaged. (SA) |
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| Title: |
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Que Viva El Canto! Songs and Singers of Chile |
| Label: |
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Smithsonian Folkways
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Artist:
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Rafael Manríquez & Friends |
| ISBN: |
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9786312431183 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00093074054925 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDFOLK740549 |
| Cat.#: |
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SFW CD 40549 |
| Genre: |
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Latin |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Manríquez is a Chilean 1960s folkie who helped bring new ideas to Chilean folk song traditions. Simultaneously a revivalist and an innovator, he champions traditional styles, such as historic tonadas and pericones, and instruments, such as the guitarro, a 25-string guitar, as well as nueva canción and other more contemporary trends. Here he is joined by other musicians of like mind, who together display the variety of forms and styles of different regions of the country with older songs and originals. These are gorgeous songs, brilliantly sung, and a mandatory choice for any Latin American music collection. (JW) |
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| Title: |
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Musica Ranchera: Amor, Dolor Y Lagrimas (Love, Hurt And Tears) |
| Label: |
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Smithsonian Folkways
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Artist:
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Mariachi Los Camperos De Nati Canto |
| ISBN: |
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9786312098508 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00093074051825 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDFOLK740518 |
| Cat.#: |
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SFW CD 40518 |
| Genre: |
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Latin |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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"Love, hurt, and tears" appropriately describes the music made here by Nati Canto and his group. Música ranchera is a style that became an important part of Mexican national identity in the mid-20th century. This rural music took the cities by storm, and the mariachi ensemble became its vehicle, with its bel canto singing, sentimental lyrics, and prominent strings. Mariachi Los Camperos help keep this style alive with its remarkable musicianship, beautiful arrangements, and clear commitment to the music. The excellent notes make this an all-around winner. (JW) |
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| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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La Corona |
| Label: |
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Out Here (dist. Forced Exposure)
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Artist:
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Madera Limpia |
| ISBN: |
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9786312531685 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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04047179138727 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDOTHR009 |
| Cat.#: |
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OH 009 |
| Genre: |
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Latin/Hip hop |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Rap en español isn't exactly a new phenomenon, but these guys are a bit unusual. Hailing from Guantanamo, Cuba, their music draws more on the traditions of their home country and other Caribbean sources than it does on American hip hop; where other Latin rappers often try to sound as much like inner-city gangsters as possible, this team sounds more like a couple of guys spitting (and singing) over homemade grooves down at the Buena Vista Social Club. There are plenty of disparate musical elements, but everything ultimately feels distinctly Cuban. Very cool. (RA) |
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© CD HotList 2004 |
