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| CLASSICAL |
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 |
| |
| $18.98 |
| |
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 |
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| Title: |
|
Arvo Part: A Tribute |
| Label: |
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Harmonia Mundi
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Composer:
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|
Arvo Part |
| Performer: |
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Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir; Theatre of Voices; Pro Arte Singers / Hillier |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309557346 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309557343 |
| UPC: |
|
00093046740726 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDHMD HMU907407 |
| Cat.#: |
|
HMU 907407 |
| Period: |
|
20th Century |
| Genre: |
|
Classical |
| Release type: |
|
Compilation |
| Comments: |
|
If October is starting to look like Arvo Part Month here at CD HotList, it's because the composer's 70th birthday has occasioned a number of fine retrospectives, collections and new recordings. This one brings together recordings of some of his less well-known choral works, by various choirs under the direction of Paul Hillier. Note in particular the glorious Berliner Messe and his spectacular Magnificat setting of 1989. If you don't already own the recordings from which these extracts were taken, this one is well worth picking up. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Lamentate |
| Label: |
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ECM
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Composer:
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Arvo Part |
| Performer: |
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Hilliard Ensemble; Alexei Lubimov; SWR Stuttgart Radio Symphony Orchestra; Andrey Boreyko |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309592156 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309592157 |
| UPC: |
|
00028947630487 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDUMG B000505602 |
| Cat.#: |
|
1930 |
| Period: |
|
Modern |
| Genre: |
|
Classical |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Of the three Arvo Part recordings recommended in this month's issue, this one is the best. It consists of two new pieces: Da Pace Domine, a choral work performed with subdued brilliance by the Hilliard Ensemble, and a large-scale work (though not really a concerto) for piano and orchestra inspired by a huge sculpture by Anish Kapoor. The latter work is considerably lusher and more emotionally fraught than what one might expect from Part, and it's quite wonderful. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Psalm 103; Motets and Madrigals |
| Label: |
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Harmonia Mundi
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Composer:
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Alfonso Ferrabosco |
| Performer: |
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Huelgas Ensemble / Van Nevel |
| ISBN: |
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9786309586346 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309586343 |
| UPC: |
|
00794881770328 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDHMD HMC901874 |
| Cat.#: |
|
HMC 901874 |
| Period: |
|
Renaissance |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
Alfonso Ferrabosco, known as "Il Padre," is yet another of those great Renaissance composers whose work was widely celebrated in his time, but who has since fallen into unjust obscurity. Paul Van Nevel is just the man to remedy the situation: his Huelgas Ensemble delivers this collection of motets, madrigals and psalms with a sweetly burnished sound and an infectious sense of devout wonder; the music itself is a revelation. Here's hoping for more such revival recordings in the future. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Symphonies nos. 1 & 2 |
| Label: |
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Naxos
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Composer:
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Kurt Weill |
| Performer: |
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Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra / Alsop |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309564023 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309564021 |
| UPC: |
|
00747313248124 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDNAXO8557481 |
| Cat.#: |
|
8.557481 |
| Period: |
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20th Century |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
Kurt Weill is mainly known for his theater writing, of course, but in his youth he also wrote some pretty compelling orchestral music. The two symphonies recorded here were written in 1921 and 1934, and the contrasts between them are interesting; the first is enjoyable and emotionally engaging in ways that are also true of his stage music, while the second is more sophisticated, if perhaps lacking a bit in emotional immediacy. Both are well worth hearing, and should find a place in any classical collection. (RA) |
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 |
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| $15.98 |
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| Title: |
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Sweet Seraphic Fire: New England Singing-School Music |
| Label: |
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New World
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Composer:
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Various Composers |
| Performer: |
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Norumbega Harmony |
| ISBN: |
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9786309625496 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309625497 |
| UPC: |
|
00093228064022 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDNEWW80640 |
| Cat.#: |
|
80640-2 |
| Period: |
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18th Century |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
A new recording of popular and obscure music from the New England "singing school" tradition (which gave us such masters of the anthem and fuguing tune as William Billings, Jeremiah Ingalls and Supply Belcher) is always welcome. And it's good when the singing style is energetic and slightly raw, since this was music for amateurs, students and worshippers. But one wishes that the Norumbega Harmony had worked a bit harder on singing in tune. That said, this CD is, at the very least, a valuable reference document for 35 fine examples of the tradition (including a handful of modern compositions in the 18th-century style). (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Missa Christi Resurgentis |
| Label: |
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Harmonia Mundi
|
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Composer:
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Heinrich Ignaz Franz Biber |
| Performer: |
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English Concert & Choir / Manze |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309586339 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309586335 |
| UPC: |
|
00093046739720 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDHMD HMU907397 |
| Cat.#: |
|
HMU 907397 |
| Period: |
|
Baroque |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
While Biber's glorious polychoral Missa Christi Resurgentis has not exactly been lost, it had not been performed in modern times until 2004, when Andrew Manze and the English Concert finally gave the work its first European performance in 300 years. This beautiful recording intersperses the sections of the mass with instrumental fanfares and sonatas, to marvelous effect. Highly recommended to all libraries. (RA) |
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 |
| |
| $21.98 |
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| Title: |
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Orion |
| Label: |
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Orange Mountain (dist. Harmonia Mundi)
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Composer:
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Philip Glass |
| ISBN: |
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9786309499875 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309499874 |
| UPC: |
|
00801837002126 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDHMD OMM0021 |
| Cat.#: |
|
OMM 0021 |
| Period: |
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Modern |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
I'll admit up front that when it comes to minimalist composers, I'm more of a Steve Reich guy than a Philip Glass guy. But this two-disc collection of brief collaborative pieces with a variety of world-music stars (Ashley MacIsaac, Ravi Shankar, Wu Man, etc.) is lots of nice, undemanding fun, and his collaborators help keep Glass from falling into too many pseudo-mystical, arpeggiated ruts. Recommended. (RA) |
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|
 |
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| $18.98 |
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| Title: |
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Glasscuts: Philip Glass Remixed |
| Label: |
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Orange Mountain (dist. Harmonia Mundi)
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Composer:
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Philip Glass |
| Performer: |
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Various Remixers |
| ISBN: |
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9786309586056 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
630958605X |
| UPC: |
|
00801837002324 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDHMD OMM0023 |
| Cat.#: |
|
OMM 0023 |
| Period: |
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Modern |
| Genre: |
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Classical/Dance |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
Steve Reich got the remix treatment several years ago, and the result was pretty thrilling. Now it's Philip Glass's turn, and the results are also quite impressive. Most of the DJs and producers assigned to fold, spindle and mutilate sections of Glass's compositions are Europeans whose name may not be familiar to most American dance aficionados, but the language they speak is international -- whether it's the jittery jungle groove of Robert Bell's cut on "Another Loot at Harmony" or Marcos Romero's drill'n'bass deconstruction of "Channels and Winds." This may be of only passing academic interest, but it sure is fun. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Violin Concerto Trilogy: |
| Label: |
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New Albion
|
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Composer:
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Robert Kyr |
| Performer: |
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Ron Blessinger; Denise Huizenga; Pacific Rim Gamelan; Third Angle New Music Ensemble |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309682253 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309682253 |
| UPC: |
|
022551012622 |
| Cat.#: |
|
NA126 |
| Period: |
|
Modern |
| Genre: |
|
Classical |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
To call composer Robert Kyr an American neoromantic wouldn't be entirely accurate, but it wouldn't exactly be unfair either. One of the things that makes his music so compelling is that it combines emotional intensity with a complete lack of sentimental mushiness. These three violin concertos, all written between 1996 and 2002, draw on themes from traditional American music but develop them in sometimes surprising and always stunningly beautiful ways. Highly recommended. (RA) |
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|
 |
| |
| $17.98 |
| |
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| |
|
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| Title: |
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In Gabrieli's Day |
| Label: |
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Summit (dist. Allegro)
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Composer:
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Giovanni Gabrieli et al. |
| Performer: |
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American Brass Quintet |
| ISBN: |
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9786309550736 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
630955073X |
| UPC: |
|
00099402429922 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDAGROSMT429 |
| Cat.#: |
|
DCD 429 |
| Period: |
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Renaissance |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
Lovely arrangements for brass quintet of great 15th- and 16th-century madrigals, canzoni and balletti by the great Venetian composers of the period. The American Brass Quintet is in top form here. (RA) |
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|
 |
| |
| $17.99 |
| |
|
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| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Arvo Part: A Portrait |
| Label: |
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Naxos
|
|
Composer:
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|
Arvo Part |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309409560 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309409565 |
| UPC: |
|
00636943818220 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDNAXO8558182 |
| Cat.#: |
|
8.558182-83 |
| Period: |
|
20th Century |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
|
Compilation (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
The selection of pieces on this two-disc set may seem a bit haphazard (and the performance of the cello/piano arrangement of Fratres is not quite in tune), but this two-discs-plus-book set offers a fine overview of the life and work of one of the late 20th century's most beloved composers. Recommended to those libraries that can't afford a deep collection of Part's recordings. (RA) |
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| COUNTRY/FOLK |
|
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| |
| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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Across The Bridge |
| Label: |
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Compass
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Artist:
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Drew Emmitt |
| ISBN: |
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9786309484338 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309484338 |
| UPC: |
|
00766397441023 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDCOMS974410 |
| Cat.#: |
|
4410 |
| Genre: |
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Folk/Bluegrass |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
Fans of bands like the String Cheese Incident and Leftover Salmon (call it Colorado Fauxgrass) will be lined up to hear this solo effort from Leftover Salmon's mandolinist and lead singer. They'll be prepared for the fact that his singing voice is average at best, and will be pleased by the adventurous (but not too challenging) instrumentals and numerous guest artists. (RA) |
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 |
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| $13.99 |
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| Title: |
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Resting Place |
| Label: |
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Yellow Dog
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Artist:
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Terry Robb |
| ISBN: |
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9786309416766 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309416766 |
| UPC: |
|
00823800117729 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDYDR 1177 |
| Cat.#: |
|
1177 |
| Genre: |
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Blues |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Terry Rob is a jaw-droppingly fine fingerstyle blues guitarist. He's a less than jaw-droppingly fine singer, but he's not a bad one, and some of the songs on his latest album are quite fine. But it's the instrumentals that will really catch your attention. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Time Well Wasted |
| Label: |
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Arista
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Artist:
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Brad Paisley |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309512932 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309512935 |
| UPC: |
|
00828766964226 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDARIS69642 |
| Cat.#: |
|
69642 |
| Genre: |
|
Country |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
If you collect country music, then you surely don't need to be told that you need to pick up the latest from Nashville's funniest, most fleet-fingered and golden-voiced megastar. It would be easy to hate him Brad Paisley he weren't so much fun to listen to. On Time Well Wasted he wins the top award in the Nastiest Couplet from a Kiss-Off Song competition with this one: "It's like music to hear you bawling/Waa, waa, waa, waa, waa." (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Lucky Drive |
| Label: |
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Rounder
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Artist:
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Open Road |
| ISBN: |
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9786309433633 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309433636 |
| UPC: |
|
00011661056220 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECD116 6105622 |
| Cat.#: |
|
11661-0562-2 |
| Genre: |
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Bluegrass |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
Open Road looks and acts like a straight-up traditional bluegrass band, but listen again. The title track of their latest album is rhythmically insane, with extra beats thrown in about every third line or so. Then there's the downright creepy "It's Blowing Away," in which the following lines are delivered in a hushed, mournful voice: "Everyone's asking what happened to country/Country music is blowing away/In a lonesome bluegrass wind." Elsewhere the album's pleasures are more straightforward. Highly recommended. (RA) |
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|
 |
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| $19.98 |
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| Title: |
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Sweethearts In Heaven: The Complete Dot Recordings, 1957-1964 |
| Label: |
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Bear Family
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Artist:
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Reno & Smiley |
| ISBN: |
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9786309000118 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
630900011X |
| UPC: |
|
04000127167286 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDBFAM16728 |
| Cat.#: |
|
16728 |
| Genre: |
|
Country/Bluegrass |
| Release type: |
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Compilation |
| Comments: |
|
Don Reno & Red Smiley recorded a 12-song album titled Bluegrass Hits for the Dot label in 1963; it was reissued on CD in 2004 by the Copper Creek label. But this release of the same content eclipses Copper Creek's easily by adding another 12 songs, making it a complete collection of everything recorded by Don Reno (with and without Smiley) for that label. Most of the non-Smiley material is instrumental fare that showcases Reno's legendarily adroit banjo picking. As is typical of Bear Family releases, the liner notes are extensive and well written. Highly recommended. (RA) |
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|
 |
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| $13.98 |
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| Title: |
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Countryman |
| Label: |
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Lost Highway
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Artist:
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Willie Nelson |
| ISBN: |
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9786309438676 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309438670 |
| UPC: |
|
00602498820551 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDUMG B000470602 |
| Cat.#: |
|
0004947 |
| Genre: |
|
Country & Western/Reggae |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
Yes, it sounds like a bad joke: the notoriously hemp-friendly Willie Nelson singing a program of his own songs and a handful of reggae classics over a one-drop beat, accompanied by a motley crew of studio musicians from Jamaica and Nashville. And indeed, critics have been falling over themselves to dismiss this album as nothing more than a bad joke. But you know what? That was my (and my wife's) response the first time we listened, too. But when I listened to it a second time I liked it much better. Your mileage may vary, of course, and I'm frankly a little bit afraid to listen a third time. (RA) |
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 |
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| $13.98 |
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| Title: |
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Up To My Old Tricks Again |
| Label: |
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HighTone
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Artist:
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Kim Lenz |
| ISBN: |
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9786309562043 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309562045 |
| UPC: |
|
00012928818322 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDRHIN8183 |
| Cat.#: |
|
HCD 8183 |
| Genre: |
|
Country/Rockabilly |
| Release type: |
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Compilation |
| Comments: |
|
This is a nice overview of the work of modern rockabilly filly Kim Lenz; it includes tracks from her two previous HighTone albums as well as compilation tracks from a couple of Bloodshot releases and two new songs. Lenz is all bouncing, hiccuping energy and her band ought to be called Death By Twang. Someone needs to hook her up with Big Sandy for a duo project... (RA) |
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| Title: |
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The Girl Who Couldn't Fly |
| Label: |
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Compass
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Artist:
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Kate Rusby |
| ISBN: |
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9786309677228 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309677225 |
| UPC: |
|
00766397442020 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDCOMS974420 |
| Cat.#: |
|
7 4420 2 |
| Genre: |
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British Folk |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Every time Kate Rusby releases a new album I hold my breath, afraid that this will be the one on which she tires of her beautifully plainspoken British folk music and starts... experimenting. So far, she's stayed the course as resolutely as George Bush, though much more articulately. Like all of her previous releases, this one is a thing of sweet, crystalline beauty and is highly recommended to all collections. (RA) |
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| JAZZ |
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 |
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| $14.98 |
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| |
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| Title: |
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Labyrinth |
| Label: |
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Polisonic
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Artist:
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Kerry Politzer Quartet |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309633569 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309633562 |
| UPC: |
|
00669910369968 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDORH 103699 |
| Cat.#: |
|
02 |
| Genre: |
|
Jazz |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Pianist Kerry Politzer returns with this very fine quartet session featuring a program of original compositions. She must be tired of people harping on her age, but it has to be said that her writing style is amazingly mature and fully-realized for a musician as young as she. Tunes like "Rhodes Rage" and the aptly named title track are impressively complex, but also effortlessly approachable -- a combination of characteristics that few musicians are able to balance so gracefully. Recommended to all jazz collections. (RA) |
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 |
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| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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Outre Mer |
| Label: |
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Telarc
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Artist:
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Garage A Trois |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309506887 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309506889 |
| UPC: |
|
00089408364020 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDTELA83640 |
| Cat.#: |
|
CD-83640 |
| Genre: |
|
Jazz |
| Release type: |
|
Soundtrack |
| Comments: |
|
Technically, this is the soundtrack to a French art film called Outre Mer. But if you didn't know that, you'd think it's just one more very nice jazz-funk project from eight-string guitarist Charlie Hunter and his various pals. The music isn't exactly challenging, but it's consistently enjoyable, shot through with gentle hints of Caribbean and Indian influence. Very nice. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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As Long As I Live |
| Label: |
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Arbors (dist. Allegro)
|
|
Artist:
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Randy Reinhart |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309417183 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309417185 |
| UPC: |
|
00780941131321 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDAGROARB19313 |
| Cat.#: |
|
ARCD 19313 |
| Genre: |
|
Jazz |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Is Randy Reinhart the best cornettist currently playing the traditional jazz and swing idioms? I don't know. But I do know that listening to his honeyed tone and his lithe, intelligent solos is one of the most pleasurable experiences to be had from a jazz recording these days. Do your patrons a favor and buy this disc, then check it out to them whether they want it or not. They'll thank you. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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The Color Of Memory |
| Label: |
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Atavistic
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Artist:
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|
Vandermark 5 |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309591272 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309591274 |
| UPC: |
|
00735286116625 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDATA 61166 |
| Cat.#: |
|
ALP1662CD |
| Genre: |
|
Jazz Music |
| Release type: |
|
New (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
Admittedly, the new 12 CD Box Set of the Vandermark 5's live performances in Krakow might be a bit dense and pricey for all libraries. So why not invest in the group's first studio double album instead? More importantly, this is the last recording with trombonist Jeb Bishop. This latest endeavor continues to show Ken Vandermark and Co. in high style. The group continously steps up in terms of originality, performance and improvisation. The promotional material for the CD states that this recording represents the last five years of the band's touring and traveling experience. If there was ever a good place for a library to start collection CDs of the Vandermark 5, I can hardly think of a better starting point than this CD. THEN you can move on up to the 12 CD box set! (DC) |
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 |
| |
| $17.95 |
| |
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| |
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| Title: |
|
China is Near |
| Label: |
|
ATP
|
|
Artist:
|
|
White Out with Jim O'Rourke and William Winant |
| UPC: |
|
0666017107226 |
| Cat.#: |
|
ATPRCD12 |
| Genre: |
|
Avante-Garde, Free Form Jazz |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Combine an innovative electro-duo with a unique percussionist and Chicago's wonderboy of new music...and it still wouldn't give you a good idea about the music on this CD. The melange of all these disparate music types creates something new and surprising at each track. And while each member definitely influences the outcome, the CD does not sound too much like anybody involved. An interesting addition to any library looking to increase their collection of modern music creation. (DC) |
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| Title: |
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Penguin Guide To Jazz On Cd |
| Label: |
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Penguin USA
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Artist:
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Richard Cook & Brian Morton |
| ISBN: |
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9780141014166 |
| ISBN-10: |
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0141014164 |
| Prod.#: |
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BK0006025165 |
| Cat.#: |
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| Genre: |
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Jazz (Book) |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
The seventh edition of Richard Cook and Brian Morton's magisterial guide to jazz recordings remains the single most authoritative, reliable and enjoyable record guide on the market -- in almost any genre of music. Cook and Morton write articulately, concisely and with utterly charming enthusiasm, as well as a jaw-dropping command of the history of jazz, its personalities, and its technical details. This seventh edition is absolutely essential for all libraries. (RA) |
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| $24.98 |
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| Title: |
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Essential Tito Puente |
| Label: |
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Bluebird
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Artist:
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Tito Puente |
| ISBN: |
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9786309512963 |
| ISBN-10: |
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630951296X |
| UPC: |
|
00828766924329 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDBBIR69243 |
| Cat.#: |
|
69243 |
| Genre: |
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Latin Music |
| Release type: |
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Reissue (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
With over 100 albums to his credit, percussionist/ composer/ arranger Tito Puente’s canon is quintessential Latin jazz. His roots included both Spanish Harlem and Julliard, and his talent and training made the energetic, exciting Puente the high priest of Latin jazz. This excellent two-disc collection concentrates on his peak years of the 1950s, but also includes his 1962 classic “Oye Como Va,” a big hit for Santana in 1971 that turned a whole new generation on to Puente’s genius. Highly recommended. (GH) |
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| Title: |
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Without A Song (The 9/11 Concert) |
| Label: |
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Milestone
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Artist:
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Sonny Rollins |
| ISBN: |
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9786309590770 |
| ISBN-10: |
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6309590774 |
| UPC: |
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00025218934220 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDMLSR9342 |
| Cat.#: |
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MCD-9342-2 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
He's 75 years old, ladies and gentlemen. Let's stop for just a moment and think about that, preferably while enjoying his joyful romps through "Why Was I Born" and the wonderful Caribbean-flavored "Global Warming." This live recording by the elder statesman of the tenor saxophone was made in Boston just days after the 9/11 attacks, so the joy is actually tempered somewhat by defiance. Brilliant and uplifting. (RA) |
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| $18.98 |
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| Title: |
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East/West |
| Label: |
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Nonesuch
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Artist:
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Bill Frisell |
| ISBN: |
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9786309434852 |
| ISBN-10: |
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6309434853 |
| UPC: |
|
00075597986327 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDNONEN79863 |
| Cat.#: |
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79863-2 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
This two-disc set (note the one-disc price) documents performances by the brilliant and somewhat eccentric guitarist Bill Frisell in New York and California, one disc devoted to each. In both cases he's playing in a guitar-trio format with bass and drums, and playing a typically strange program of mixed jazz standards, folk tunes and original compositions. Typical, also, are his inventive wit and the nice-guy charm that suffuses even his spikiest solo excursions. Recommended. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Not In Our Name * |
| Label: |
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Verve
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Artist:
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Charlie Haden, Carla Bley & Liberation Music Orchestra |
| ISBN: |
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9786309589552 |
| ISBN-10: |
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6309589555 |
| UPC: |
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00602498292488 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDUMG B000494902 |
| Cat.#: |
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B0004949-02 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
In 1969, during the turmoil of the Vietnam War, bassist Charlie Haden and pianist Carla Bley released their landmark big-band recording, Liberation Music Orchestra. Mixing in folk music strains, touches of the avant-garde, and plenty of politically potent musical allusions, LMO was a masterpiece of big-band political statement. Now, thirty-six years after their original recording, Haden & Bley are back with another Liberation Music Orchestra recording, inspired by the current state of American politics. Once again drawing on jazz, folk & traditional musical forms, this latest LMO effort is an elegant, beautiful recording; it is both a protest against the current political atmosphere in the US and abroad, as well as a strong testament to the enduring power of American music in the face of political upheaval. Bley’s big-band arrangements are extraordinary, and the soloists are inspired. Noteworthy selections include arrangements of works by Dvorak and Barber, but perhaps the most interesting work is a medley of "American the Beautiful," "Lift Every Voice," and Ornette Coleman’s "Skies of America." Very highly recommended. (GH)
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| $11.98 |
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| Title: |
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Bob Brookmeyer And Friends [Remaster] |
| Label: |
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Legacy
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Artist:
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Bob Brookmeyer |
| ISBN: |
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9786309468123 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
630946812X |
| UPC: |
|
00827969429228 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDCOLM94292 |
| Cat.#: |
|
04292 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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Reissue |
| Comments: |
|
Jazz super sessions can be a mixed bag – a room full of genius doesn’t always mean a great recording. That’s certainly not the case with this exemplary 1964 outing from valve trombonist Bob Brookmeyer. The front-line pairing of Brookmeyer and saxophonist Stan Getz is tasteful and inspired, but it’s the rhythm section that adds the punch. Drummer Elvin Jones, a recent alum of John Coltrane’s classic quartet, adds a potent sizzle, deftly accompanied by Herbie Hancock and Ron Carter, both starting a brilliant run with the groundbreaking Miles Davis quintet. Spunky young vibraphonist Gary Burton rounds out this fine example of mid-60s jazz. Recommended. (GH) |
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| ROCK/POP |
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| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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Early 21st Century Blues |
| Label: |
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Zoe
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Artist:
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Cowboy Junkies |
| ISBN: |
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9786309561176 |
| ISBN-10: |
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6309561170 |
| UPC: |
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00601143107825 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECD011 4310782 |
| Cat.#: |
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01143-1078-2 |
| Genre: |
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Rock, Alternative Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
Reflecting on contemporary political conditions, the Junkies perform a handful of tunes dealing with war, greed, violence, and loss on their latest, a laid-back affair that recalls their remarkable 1987 Trinity Sessions album. Honoring the time-honored tradition of using music as an outlet for social commentary, the band covers a range of topical selections, including the traditional “Two Soldiers” and contemporary songs like Dylan’s “License to Kill,” Lennon’s “I Don’t Want to be a Soldier,” U2’s “One,” and Harrison’s “Isn’t It a Pity.” The Junkies’ latest is impassioned and honest to the core --not to mention more than a a tad timely. Highly recommended. (GH) |
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| $10.98 |
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| Title: |
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In Europe |
| Label: |
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Arhoolie (dist. Koch)
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Artist:
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Big Mama Thornton |
| ISBN: |
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9786309522795 |
| ISBN-10: |
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6309522795 |
| UPC: |
|
00096297905623 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDARHO9056 |
| Cat.#: |
|
9056 |
| Genre: |
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Blues/R&B |
| Release type: |
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Reissue |
| Comments: |
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Big Mama Thornton may not be the person who wrote "Hound Dog," but she is (sorry, Elvis) the only person who ever sang it right. She does so twice on this fine reissue of a classic Arhoolie LP, which includes six bonus tracks and a 15-minute interview in addition to the original live program. Her voice is still a revelation every time you hear it, and the sound quality is not bad. (RA) |
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| $11.98 |
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| Title: |
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Blows Against the Empire |
| Label: |
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RCA
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Artist:
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Paul Kantner / Jefferson Starship |
| ISBN: |
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9786309591890 |
| ISBN-10: |
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6309591894 |
| UPC: |
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00828766797428 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDRCA 67974 |
| Cat.#: |
|
67974 |
| Genre: |
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Rock, Alternative Music |
| Release type: |
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Reissue |
| Comments: |
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Ripe with Jefferson Airplane’s Volunteers-era politics, JA members Paul Kantner and Grace Slick’s Blows Against the Empire is a compelling blend of Vietnam-era angst & anger and science fiction optimism. Joined by such luminaries as Jerry Garcia and David Crosby, Kantner & Slick crafted a utopian vision where idealistic youngsters hijack a starship for a better life away from the earthly pale. The album even attracted the attention of the sci-fi community, and was nominated for a Hugo award upon its original release in 1970. A personal favorite from my youth, it was a pleasant surprise to hear how well this stood the test of time. (GH)
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| $49.98 |
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| Title: |
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Try For The Sun [Box] |
| Label: |
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CBS/Epic
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Artist:
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Donovan |
| ISBN: |
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9786309591524 |
| ISBN-10: |
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6309591525 |
| UPC: |
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00827969391921 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDCOLM93919 |
| Cat.#: |
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E4K-93919 |
| Genre: |
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Rock, Alternative Music |
| Release type: |
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New/Reissue (3-discs) |
| Comments: |
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This fine set provides an opportunity to assess Donovan’s career, and reconsider his talents if you’ve just dismissed him as the flower-power folkie who sang “Atlantis.” Much more than a trendy Scottish folkie and sixties tunesmith, Donovan was a skillful craftsmen of evocative lyrics and indelible melodies (note that the Allman Brothers created “Mountain Jam” from Donovan’s “There is a Mountain”), who often surrounded himself with musicians such as Jeff Beck and Jimmy Page. This 3 disc retrospective includes all the hits, as well as rarities and more recent material. An additional DVD includes a 1970 documentary. (GH) |
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| Title: |
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The Motown Box |
| Label: |
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Shout/Motown
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Artist:
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Various Artists |
| ISBN: |
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9786309483034 |
| ISBN-10: |
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630948303X |
| UPC: |
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00602498832936 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDUMG B000499902 |
| Cat.#: |
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B0004999-02 |
| Genre: |
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Rock/R&B |
| Release type: |
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Boxed Set (4-discs) |
| Comments: |
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Obviously, the ideal would be for every library to own 20 or 30 of the best Motown albums as individual discs. But if you can't afford to go that route, then give serious consideration to this nicely appointed four-disc box, which offers a couple of good essays, consistently great songs and lots of interesting photos as well. Some purists will consider the new stereo mixes of many of these songs to be sacreligious -- they should probably relax a bit. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Inna City Pressure |
| Label: |
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ROIR
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Artist:
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Dr. Israel |
| ISBN: |
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9786309583130 |
| ISBN-10: |
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6309583131 |
| UPC: |
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00053436829127 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDROIR8291 |
| Cat.#: |
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RUSCD 8291 |
| Genre: |
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Reggae/Jungle |
| Release type: |
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Reissue |
| Comments: |
|
When it was originally issued on the Mutant Sound System label in 1998, it offered a pioneering fusion of reggae, jungle, punk and hip hop, and it sounded great. Now that Mutant Sound System is out of business, the ROIR label has rescued it from the cutout bins and made it even better, with remastered sound, alternate mixes and bonus tracks. Don't miss the cameo appearance from Rancid and the two tracks culled from the equally out-of-print Trumystic Sound System album. Excellent. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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The Source |
| Label: |
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Collector's Choice
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Artist:
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Grandmaster Flash |
| ISBN: |
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9786309577573 |
| ISBN-10: |
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6309577573 |
| UPC: |
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00617742058321 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDCLLC5832 |
| Cat.#: |
|
CCM-583-2 |
| Genre: |
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Hip Hop |
| Release type: |
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Reissue |
| Comments: |
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The Collector's Choice label has taken it upon itself to reissue -- finally! -- several seminal albums from the great Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, some of the most important artists of the early hip hop era. Yes, this stuff is dated (at times even embarrassingly so), but that's what makes it interesting for a research collection: your patrons need access to the source material. (This reissue series also includes Ba-Dop-Boom-Bang (CCM-584-2), On the Strength (CCM-585-2) and Grandmaster Melle Mel and the Furious Five (CCM-582-2). Essential to any deep pop collection. (RA) |
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| WORLD/ETHNIC |
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| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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Songs Of Life |
| Label: |
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Heartbeat
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Artist:
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Nazarenes |
| ISBN: |
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9786309561572 |
| ISBN-10: |
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630956157X |
| UPC: |
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00011661762428 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECD116 6176242 |
| Cat.#: |
|
11661-7624-2 |
| Genre: |
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Reggae |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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These two Ethiopian brothers return with their second release, something of a concept album featuring song titles like "Song of Judgement Day," "Song of Warmongers," "Song of Sharing," etc. Their sound is simultaneously modern and rootsy, by turns filled with dark imprecation and tender sentiment. Both are fine singers, and the backing musicians are top-notch as well. Recommended. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Music is the Weapon/Best of |
| Label: |
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Wrasse Records (dist. Caroline)
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Artist:
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Fela Kuti |
| ISBN: |
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9786309210173 |
| ISBN-10: |
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6309210173 |
| UPC: |
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05060001271507 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDWRSR132 |
| Cat.#: |
|
WRASS 132 |
| Genre: |
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World |
| Release type: |
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Boxed Set (3-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
OK, this is it -- the ultimate Fela Kuti package: a nicely selected two-disc compilation CD and a great documentary, filmed in 1982 and well transferred to DVD, that gives a good overview of Kuti's life and music. Fela Kuti is perhaps the most influential African musician of the past three decades, and this package offers a great introduction to his work. No world music collection should pass this up. (RA) |
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| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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Down The Line |
| Label: |
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Compass
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Artist:
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Ciaran Tourish |
| ISBN: |
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9786309411372 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309411373 |
| UPC: |
|
00766397440729 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDCOMS974407 |
| Cat.#: |
|
7 4407 2 |
| Genre: |
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Celtic |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Ciaran Tourish is best known as fiddler for the traditional group Altan, but his influences range far and wide, as do the contents of his Rolodex. Thus his solo album features contributions from bluegrass songbird Alison Krauss, Americana icon Tim O'Brien, and dobro player Jerry Douglas. The result is a nicely varied program of traditional dance-tune sets, songs both new and old, and original compositions. Very nice. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Sacred Bridges |
| Label: |
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World Village (dist. Harmonia Mundi)
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Artist:
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King's Singers; Sarband |
| ISBN: |
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9786309641588 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309641581 |
| UPC: |
|
00713746805227 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDHMD 468052 |
| Cat.#: |
|
468052 |
| Genre: |
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World Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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It's kind of hard to know whether this one belongs in the Classical or World/Ethnic category, but I'm going with the latter, since the focus of this exquisite recording is the ancient musical connection between Christianity, Islam and Judaism as illustrated by musical settings from each of those cultures of the Psalms of David. Settings by Sweelinck, Rossi (a Jewish European composer), and the Polish Muslim composer Ali Ufki are presented along with instrumental compositions and improvisations from the same period and region. Fascinating and beautiful. (RA) |
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