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| CLASSICAL |
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| |
| $16.98 |
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| Title: |
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Trout Quintet |
| Label: |
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Virgin Classics
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Composer:
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Schubert, Franz |
| Performer: |
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Frank Braley; Renaud Capucon; Gerard Causse; Gautier Capucon; Alois Posch |
| ISBN: |
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9786309026491 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309026496 |
| UPC: |
|
724354556326 |
| Prod.#: |
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VIRG 45563 |
| Cat.#: |
|
5 45563 2 |
| Period: |
|
Romantic |
| Genre: |
|
Classical |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Those libraries looking for a lovely recent account of Schubert's beloved "Trout" quintet should be happy to see the release of this new disc, which also includes the composer's three variations on "Trockne Blumen" and the brief "Litanae auf das Fest aller Seelen" (both for violin and piano). A little bit more definition on the treble end would have brought this recording closer to the sonic ideal, but the performances are spry and engaging. Recommended. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Lux Aeterna |
| Label: |
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Hyperion
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Composer:
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Morten Lauridsen |
| Performer: |
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Polyphony; Britten Sinfonia / Stephen Layton |
| ISBN: |
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9786309112675 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309112678 |
| UPC: |
|
034571174495 |
| Prod.#: |
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HMD CDA67449 |
| Cat.#: |
|
CDA67449 |
| Period: |
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20th Century |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
Pricey though it is, this new recording of Morten Lauridsen's choral masterpiece is worth the money. More approachable than Arvo Part, less pretentious than John Tavener, Lauridsen makes vocal music that is informed by ancient traditions but clearly located in the here and now, and that uplifts the soul without leaving the brain hungry. The English choral group Polyphony does a ravishing job interpreting Lux Aeterna and the three briefer works that accompany it on this recording. Very highly recommended to all libraries. (RA) |
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 |
| |
| $15.98 |
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| Title: |
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Concerti |
| Label: |
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CPO
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Composer:
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Franz Tunder |
| Performer: |
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Rheinische Kantorei; Das Kleine Konzert / Hermann Max |
| ISBN: |
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9786309162847 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309162845 |
| UPC: |
|
761203994328 |
| Prod.#: |
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CPO 999943 |
| Cat.#: |
|
999 943-2 |
| Period: |
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Late Renaissance/Early Baroque |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
These pieces are not concertos in the usual sense, but in an earlier one -- they are vocal works, "chorale concertos" featuring multiple soloists and string accompaniment. While Tunder's work is often featured on compilations of organ works or vocal showcases, discs devoted entirely to his music are rare and should be treasured; the performances and recording quality on this one are both first-rate. (RA) |
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 |
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| $21.98 |
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| Title: |
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Isabel I, Reina de Castilla |
| Label: |
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AliaVox (dist. Harmonia Mundi)
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Composer:
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Various Composers |
| Performer: |
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La Capella Reial de Catalunya; Hesperion XXI / Jordi Savall |
| ISBN: |
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9786308999208 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6308999202 |
| UPC: |
|
7619986098388 |
| Prod.#: |
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HMD AV9838 |
| Cat.#: |
|
AV9838 |
| Period: |
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Renaissance |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
High price and deeply annoying packaging aside (it's almost impossible to handle the digipak case without the bulky insert booklet falling repeatedly to the floor), this program offers a gorgeous musical overview of the life of one of Spain's more celebrated queens, offering choral and instrumental works by Dufay, Enzina, Cornago and others that relate to various events during Isabella's reign. Both sound quality and performances are, as always with this group and label, of the highest quality. (RA) |
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 |
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| $16.98 |
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| Title: |
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Simon Trp?eski Plays Rachmaninov |
| Label: |
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EMI Classics
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Composer:
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Sergei Rachmaninov |
| Performer: |
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Simon Trp?eski |
| ISBN: |
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9786309075666 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309075667 |
| UPC: |
|
724355794321 |
| Prod.#: |
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EMIC 57943 |
| Cat.#: |
|
5 57943 2 |
| Period: |
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Romantic/20th Century |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
On this rather recital-ish program, the brilliant young Macedonian pianist Simon Trp?eski offers 13 light and pleasant Rachmaninov preludes (three of them transcriptions of works by Tchaikovsky, Rimsky-Korsakov and Mendelssohn) and a fine account of Rachmaninov's darker and more monumental Piano Sonata No. 2, op. 36. Trp?eski's feel for this repertoire is impressive, and his technique is spectacular. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Cello Concerto; Schelomo; Kol Nidrei |
| Label: |
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Virgin Classics
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Composer:
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Robert Schumann; Max Bruch; Ernest Bloch |
| Performer: |
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Truls Mørk; Orchestre Philharmonique de Radio France / Järvi |
| ISBN: |
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9786309075659 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309075659 |
| UPC: |
|
724354566424 |
| Prod.#: |
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EMIC 45664B |
| Cat.#: |
|
5 45664 2 |
| Period: |
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Romantic/20th Century |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
Soloist Truls Mørk and the Orchestre Philharmonique de Radio France are beautifully matched on this program of late romantic and early 20th-century cello showcases. Mørk plays with an almost heartbreaking sensitivity and feeling, never giving in to bombast or bathos, and conductor Järvi makes sure that his orchestra does the same; the result is the feeling of a tremendous weight of emotion kept in delicate balance. The Schumann concerto and Bruch's difficult Kol Nidrei are particularly impressive. Very highly recommended. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Origin of Fire: Music and Visions of Hildegard von Bingen |
| Label: |
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Harmonia Mundi
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Composer:
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Hildegard von Bingen |
| Performer: |
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Anonymous 4 |
| ISBN: |
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9786309112194 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309112198 |
| UPC: |
|
093046732721 |
| Prod.#: |
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HMD HMU907327 |
| Cat.#: |
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HMU 907327 |
| Period: |
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Medieval |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
Since the mid-1980s, when her music was rediscovered by a mass audience, the 12th-century abbess, mystic and composer Hildegard von Bingen has been an object of fascination for European and American audiences. Her gorgeous plainchant compositions are simultaneously thrilling and soothing, and good performances of them tend to sell very well. Libraries should expect high demand for this, the second recording of Hildegard works by the justly celebrated female ensemble Anonymous 4. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Orlando Furioso |
| Label: |
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Naive/Opus 111 (dist. Naxos)
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Composer:
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Antonio Vivaldi |
| Performer: |
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Ensemble Matheus; Choeur |
| ISBN: |
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9786309068491 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309068490 |
| UPC: |
|
709861303939 |
| Prod.#: |
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NAIV OP30393 |
| Cat.#: |
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OP 30393 |
| Period: |
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Baroque |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New (3-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
Those with an interest in baroque opera will be familiar with a previous (drastically edited) version of Orlando Furioso featuring the great Marilyn Horne. This is the first complete recording of the opera ever released, and offers both exception soloists and period-instrument accompaniment. If that means a slight reduction in sonic grandeur, well, so be it -- the sound is still glorious and the opera itself is an unjutly neglected masterpiece. (RA) |
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|
 |
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| $7.98 |
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| Title: |
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Symphony No. 1; Targic Overture, op. 81; Academic Festival Overture, op. 80 |
| Label: |
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Naxos
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Composer:
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Johannes Brahms |
| Performer: |
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London Philharmonic Orchestra / Marin Alsop |
| ISBN: |
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9786309158949 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309158945 |
| UPC: |
|
747313242825 |
| Prod.#: |
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NAXO 8557428 |
| Cat.#: |
|
8.557428 |
| Period: |
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Romantic |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
This disc is the first in a projected series of Naxos releases that will feature the excellent Brahms interpreter Marin Alsop conducting the London Philharmonic Orchestra. Beginning, appropriately enough, with Brahm's first symphony (along with a couple of nice makeweight pieces), Alsop makes her intentions clear: a robust but not overbearing interpretation that never sacrifices elegance for bombast. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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New World Symphony and Other Orchestral Masterworks |
| Label: |
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RCA Red Seal
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Composer:
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Antonin Dvorak; Bedrich Smetana; Jaromir Weinberger |
| Performer: |
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Chicago Symphony Orchestra / Fritz Reiner |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309051233 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309051237 |
| UPC: |
|
828766637625 |
| Prod.#: |
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RSEA 66376 |
| Cat.#: |
|
82876-66376-2 |
| Period: |
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Romantic/20th Century |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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Reissue |
| Comments: |
|
Audiophiles with a love of midcentury performances take note: BMG is coming out with a slew of reissued recordings from the 1950s and 1960s in hybrid CD/SACD formats, and the sound is amazing. This collection of 1950s CSO recordings from the Reiner years is a case in point: the definition, clarity and dynamic range will amaze you, and if you thought that you had to put up with vinyl surface noise to get the warmth of analog sound, you'll be even more amazed. Large classical collections should probably plan to acquire everything in this series. (RA) |
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| COUNTRY/FOLK |
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| |
| $19.98 |
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| Title: |
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Just A Pickin And A Singin |
| Label: |
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Bear Family
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Artist:
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Curley Williams and His Peach Pickers |
| Performer: |
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Curley Williams |
| ISBN: |
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9786308421921 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6308421928 |
| UPC: |
|
000127163264 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDBFAM16326 |
| Cat.#: |
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BCD 16326 AH |
| Period: |
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1940s |
| Genre: |
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Country & Western |
| Release type: |
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New (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
Curley Williams and the Georgia Peach Pickers were musical icons on the country dance circuit for over two decades in both the southeast and southwest. Western Swing has carved a place for itself in American rural music and Curley Williams is an genuine and exceptional exponent of those early days of the genre. This CD will have historic value to students of musical history,American culture, and those who enjoy old time country dance music. (JM) |
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|
 |
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| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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Universal United House of Prayer |
| Label: |
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New West
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Artist:
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Buddy Miller |
| ISBN: |
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9786308769177 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6308769177 |
| UPC: |
|
607396606320 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDNWST60632 |
| Cat.#: |
|
NW6063 |
| Genre: |
|
Country & Western |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
Country music has come to be seen as extremely reactionary, and the form of Christianity associated with it in most people's minds would be fundamentalism. Here comes former Emmy Lou Harris sideman Buddy Miller to show a whole new blend of country and gospel that will challenge a lot of preconceptions. His intense version of Bob Dylan's With God On Our Side is just what country radio needs right now (not that it will happen). (SA) |
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 |
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| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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Mountain Journey: Stars of Old Time Music |
| Label: |
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Rounder
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Artist:
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Various Artists |
| ISBN: |
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9786309068811 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309068814 |
| UPC: |
|
011661054622 |
| Prod.#: |
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116 6105462 |
| Cat.#: |
|
11661-0546-2 |
| Genre: |
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Country |
| Release type: |
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Compilation |
| Comments: |
|
Drawing mainly on releases from the Rounder Records catalog dating from the early 1970s, this collection brings together songs and instrumentals by such luminaries of the pre-bluegrass music world as Etta Baker, Bascom Lamar Lunsford, Hazel Dickens and Buddy Thomas (as well as a few modern ringers including the Dry Branch Fire Squad and Tim O'Brien). Raw and rootsy with flashes of surprising elegance, this is the music that should have been featured on the O Brother, Where Art Thou? soundtrack but wasn't. (RA) |
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| $34.99 |
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| Title: |
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On The Cobbles |
| Label: |
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Independiente
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Artist:
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John Martyn |
| UPC: |
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766487601047 |
| Prod.#: |
|
PHAM 760104 |
| Cat.#: |
|
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| Genre: |
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Folk/Rock |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
John Martyn is one of Britain’s finest singer/ songwriters, a markedly individualistic performer with a unique vocal style and a gift for literate songwriting and facile guitar playing. This new disc is his finest in years, drawing on blues and folk idioms for a set of acoustic and electric original compositions filled with rich, poetic imagery. A tip of the hat to Leadbelly, a marvelous cover of “Goodnight Irene” featuring Mavis Staples, rounds out this excellent effort. (GH) |
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 |
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| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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Let My People Go |
| Label: |
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Koch Entertainment
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Artist:
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Harris, Reggie and Kim & Rabbi Jonathan Kligler |
| ISBN: |
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9786309103925 |
| ISBN-10: |
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630910392X |
| UPC: |
|
611587108425 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDKHI APR1084 |
| Cat.#: |
|
APR CD 1084 |
| Genre: |
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Folk, Protest Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
This fine disc highlights the oft-overlooked role of Jewish activists in the American Civil Rights movement, drawing on African-American spirituals and the Passover Haggadah for inspiration. In addition to songs, this also features anecdotal monologues by Jewish and African-American activists and an audio essay by Pete Seeger on the evolution of “We Shall Overcome.” As a whole, this disc is an exemplary testament to the multi-faceted role of music in American social activism. (GH) |
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 |
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| $16.98 |
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| Title: |
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Cajun Champs |
| Label: |
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Arhoolie (dist. Koch)
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Artist:
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Various Artists |
| Performer: |
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Various |
| ISBN: |
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9786308391606 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6308391603 |
| UPC: |
|
096297032725 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDKHI ARH327 |
| Cat.#: |
|
CD-327 |
| Period: |
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1950s to modern |
| Genre: |
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Folk |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
This is a collection of some the ole time cajun sounds before it became fashionable and slick combined with more modern offerings. Among the gems is a 1950s live recording by Joe Falcon who is credited by many as having made the first modern cajun recording in the 1920s. Also featured are the famous Hackberry Ramblers who have been playing since 1935. This collection will appeal to fans of the genre, musicains and even students of the various cajun dialects and culture. (JM) |
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| Title: |
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Rum & Rodeo |
| Label: |
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Hightone
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Artist:
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Heather Myles |
| ISBN: |
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9786309070364 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309070363 |
| UPC: |
|
012928817820 |
| Prod.#: |
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HIGT 8178 |
| Cat.#: |
|
HCD8178 |
| Genre: |
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Country |
| Release type: |
|
Compilation |
| Comments: |
|
You owe it to your patrons to make sure they've had a chance to experience Heather Myles, one of the most talented and tasteful country singers of the past 25 years. This well-selected compilation draws on material from her earliest albums (originally released in the early 1990s), and serves as a fine showcase for her glorious voice and sharp, smart delivery. Note in particular the Patsy Cline-influenced "Beggin' to You" and the bitter title track. Very highly recommended. (RA) |
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| JAZZ |
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| |
| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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I Have The Room Above Her |
| Label: |
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ECM
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Artist:
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Motian, Paul |
| Performer: |
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Paul Motian, Bill Frisell & Joe Lovano |
| ISBN: |
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9786309097439 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309097431 |
| UPC: |
|
602498240564 |
| Prod.#: |
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UMG B000396602 |
| Cat.#: |
|
ECM 1902 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
Drummer Motian rejoins guitarist Bill Frisell and saxophonist Joe Lovano on this beautiful, engaging recording. Subtlety and graceful interplay strike a balance with a simmering intensity as this recording unfolds, highlighted by Motian’s soft, brushed cymbals and delicate trap work. An excellent work by three masters. (GH) |
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| $20.00 |
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| Title: |
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Morton Feldman Jazz Tributes |
| Label: |
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Villars Edition
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Artist:
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|
|
| Performer: |
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Various |
| Cat.#: |
|
ve01 |
| Genre: |
|
Downtown Music, Avante-Garde Jazz |
| Release type: |
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Compilation |
| Comments: |
|
What is the influence of one of 20th Century music's leading light on some of today's major jazzmen? This CD, which collects works from a period of time, elt's us know. Such composers as Ken Vandermark, Larry Ochs, Ernesto Klar and Daniel Goyone each bring their unique interpretation to jazz and Feldman's spirit with this innovative compilation. It would be a nice addition to a collection that doesn't have enough crossover CDs between genres. (DC) |
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| Title: |
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Early Years 1954-1956 |
| Label: |
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Fresh Sounds Records/Rock Bott
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Artist:
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Steve Lacy |
| ISBN: |
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9786308911125 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6308911127 |
| UPC: |
|
8427328603645 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDFRSS0364 |
| Cat.#: |
|
FSR-CD 364 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz Music |
| Release type: |
|
Best of (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
Depending on when you first heard Steve Lacy, you may tend to forget that he crossed so many jazz idioms that it made you dizzy. These early pieces, before he really embarked on free jazz, show an incredibly talented and sweet-toned soprano sax player interpreting some lovely standards. Each CD reflects different years, and you can hear Lacy maturing and beginning to break out on the later tracks. A ture gem of a collection and a must for any jazz library. (DC) |
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| $22.00 |
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| Title: |
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Live Spirits 1 & 2 |
| Label: |
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Utech Records
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Artist:
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|
| Performer: |
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Ras Moshe |
| Cat.#: |
|
UR-002, UR-003 |
| Genre: |
|
Downtown Music, Avante-Garde Jazz |
| Release type: |
|
New (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
These CDs are sold separately, but they actually make one fine collection. Ras Moshe and his Music Now Unit take over a variety of New York City venues (including the beloved href+"http://www.downtownmusic.net">Downtown Music Gallery)and create free jazz magic. For a true feel of the pulse of what is happening in the "Downtown Music" scene, one would be hard pressed to find a better representation that Ras Moshe and these CDs. (DC) |
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| Title: |
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Exploration |
| Label: |
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Capri
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Artist:
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|
|
| Performer: |
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Grachan Moncur III Octet; Mark Masters, conductor |
| ISBN: |
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9786309069894 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309069896 |
| UPC: |
|
054987406829 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDCPRI74068 |
| Cat.#: |
|
CAPRI 74068-2 |
| Genre: |
|
Modern Jazz |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Grachan Moncur recorded some wonderful albums on Blue Note in the 60's. Here, arranger masters draws Moncur back into the studio with a great ensemble and the result is truly beautiful. If your library has Moncur's earlier work, this will be a nice addition to his oeuvre. If you don't, you'd be hard pressed to ignore this. The solo sections really shine, and Moncur proves that even after being out of the spotlight for so long, his compositions and his performances are so worthy of revisiting. (DC)
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|
 |
| |
| $18.98 |
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| |
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| Title: |
|
The Way Up |
| Label: |
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Nonesuch
|
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Artist:
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Metheny, Pat |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309070135 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309070134 |
| UPC: |
|
075597987621 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDNONE79876 |
| Cat.#: |
|
79876 |
| Genre: |
|
Jazz |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
The Way Up is an extended, four-part composition by guitarist Metheny and keyboardist Lyle Mays, and it’s Metheny’s most ambitious work to date. Over nearly 70 minutes, Metheny’s band presents and establishes a theme, then revisits, reinvents, and reinvigorates it again and again. Sprawling, yet never losing focus, The Way Up is Metheny’s most satisfying works in years. (GH) |
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 |
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| $11.98 |
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| |
|
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| Title: |
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My Funny Valentine |
| Label: |
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Cbs/Epic/Wtg Records
|
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Artist:
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Davis, Miles |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309091383 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309091387 |
| UPC: |
|
827969359327 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDCOLM93593 |
| Cat.#: |
|
|
| Genre: |
|
Jazz Music |
| Release type: |
|
Reissue |
| Comments: |
|
In all of jazz, few things are as beautiful and distinctive as a Miles Davis ballad, and this live set from 1964 is filled with them, including Davis’ historic recording of the title track. It’s also one of the few Davis recordings with saxophonist George Coleman, who helped fill the sax chair between the departure of John Coltrane and the arrival of Wayne Shorter from Davis’ quintet. This excellent, remastered reissue marks the first time this classic album is available as a single CD. (GH) |
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|
 |
| |
| $15.98 |
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| Title: |
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Flying Dream |
| Label: |
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Oa2 Records
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Artist:
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Gordon Lee |
| ISBN: |
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9786308400940 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6308400947 |
| UPC: |
|
805552201628 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDOAT 22016 |
| Cat.#: |
|
22016 |
| Genre: |
|
Jazz |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
These are impressive big-band compositions by a very fine composer, pianist and arranger whose work manages elegantly to balance influences like Ellington, Mingus and Jobim and more modern elements (there are even some subtle hip-hop shadings in "Now What?"). Recommended to all jazz collections. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Parker's Mood |
| Label: |
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Blue Note
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Artist:
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Stefano di Battista |
| ISBN: |
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9786309071149 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309071149 |
| UPC: |
|
72438667402 |
| Prod.#: |
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BNOT 66740 |
| Cat.#: |
|
66740 |
| Genre: |
|
Jazz |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Yes, I know -- technically, we don't really need yet another collection of tunes composed by or associated with bebop giant Charlie Parker, especially not a collection as front-loaded with chestnuts ("Salt Peanuts," "Confirmation," "Hot House") as this one. But man, Battista is a hot player and he brings such fresh joy and energy to these familiar numbers that it really is kind of like hearing them for the first time. Recommended. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Knowing You |
| Label: |
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Telarc Jazz
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Artist:
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John Pizzarelli |
| ISBN: |
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9786309207357 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309207350 |
| UPC: |
|
089408361524 |
| Prod.#: |
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TELA 83615 |
| Cat.#: |
|
CD-83615 |
| Genre: |
|
Jazz |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
I'm going to keep recommending John Pizzarelli's albums until every library in the world owns all of them. It's not that he's such a fun, virtuosic guitarist (much like his father Bucky) nor that he's a fine, straightforward singer in the grand old tradition; it's that he's also warm, funny and inviting, and his music makes me smile every time I listen to it. It'll do the same for your patrons. (RA) |
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| |
| $12.99 |
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| Title: |
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Groove Station |
| Label: |
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Short Notice Music
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Artist:
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Jim Cifelli |
| UPC: |
|
6733885044621 |
| Cat.#: |
|
SNM-003 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Jazz players throw the word "funk" around all the time, but rarely do they mean it -- or even, in some cases, seem to know what it means. Trumpeter and composer Jim Cifelli knows what funk is, and he proves it on this very fine collection of originals for jazz septet. Not that everything is funky; "Time Out" is a lovely ballad, and bassist Mike Leslie's "Young Dan" is a slow-rolling but rhythmically complex and bluesy numbers that harks back to the Art Blakey days. But most of it is. Highly recommended. (RA) |
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| ROCK/POP |
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| |
| $18.98 |
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| |
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| Title: |
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A Ghost Is Born |
| Label: |
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Nonesuch
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Artist:
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Wilco |
| ISBN: |
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9786308467424 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6308467421 |
| UPC: |
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075597980929 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDNONE79809 |
| Cat.#: |
|
79809-2 |
| Genre: |
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Rock, Alternative Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
Jeff Tweedy and his band continue to evolve away from alt-country, though this record is perhaps not as radical a departure as the previous Yankee Foxtrot Hotel. A Ghost is Born is not going to take the world by storm, and it's not designed to. It doesn't sound like anything else, and right now that's something to be treasured. (SA) |
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 |
| |
| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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Strangers |
| Label: |
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Heavenly/EMI
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Artist:
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Ed Harcourt |
| ISBN: |
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9786309074997 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309074997 |
| UPC: |
|
724347302428 |
| Prod.#: |
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ASW 60585 |
| Cat.#: |
|
HVNLP 49CD |
| Genre: |
|
Rock |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Ed Harcourt's lack of affectation comes across as a bit studied -- maybe even affected -- but there's no denying the charm of his off-handedly elegant songs, most of which hide solid and multilayered hooks beneath a thin surface of lo-fi sonics and mopey tempos. Wheezy organs, tape hiss, tin-can drums and lazy vocals haven't sounded this good since middle-period Tom Waits. (RA) |
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| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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Beat Cafe |
| Label: |
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Koch Entertainment
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Artist:
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Donovan |
| ISBN: |
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9786308617515 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6308617512 |
| UPC: |
|
611587108128 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDKHI APR1081 |
| Cat.#: |
|
APR CD 1081 |
| Genre: |
|
Popular Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Some of you may remember Donovan, the Scottish folk rock prince of the 1960s with his soft voice, colorful lyrics and catchy arrangements. Well, he's back and sounding better than ever! Beat Cafe thematically harkens back to the beatnik era with adaptations of poetry and minimal instrumentation. the result is a jazzy, funky explosion. To coin an ancient phrase "Far out!" (JM) |
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 |
| |
| $11.98 |
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| |
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| Title: |
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More Than Before |
| Label: |
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Gammon (dist. Caroline)
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Artist:
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T.H. White |
| ISBN: |
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9786308846595 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6308846597 |
| UPC: |
|
805240211328 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDCDISGMN2113 |
| Cat.#: |
|
GMN 2113 |
| Genre: |
|
Rock |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
It's always fun when an artist blurs the lines that separate electronica, pop, progressive rock and hip hop, and that seems to be what T.H. White is going for on this sprawling but enjoyable album. You've got your turntablist, your discursive guitar soloist, your soulful singers... really, there's something for just about everyone here. (RA) |
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 |
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| $13.98 |
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| Title: |
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How To Dismantle An Atomic Bomb |
| Label: |
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Universal Music Group
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Artist:
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U2 |
| ISBN: |
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9786308883835 |
| ISBN-10: |
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6308883832 |
| UPC: |
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602498678299 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDUMG B000361302 |
| Cat.#: |
|
B0003613-02 |
| Genre: |
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Rock, Alternative Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
Whether they're sincere or ironic, guitar-driven or electronic, U2 still pretty much sounds like U2. This one tends towards guitars and sincerity, but it ends up more as a solid, reliable U2 release than any kind of return to form. (SA) |
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| $12.99 |
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| Title: |
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Postcards from the Future: Introducing Be Bop Deluxe |
| Label: |
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Astralwerks
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Artist:
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Be Bop Deluxe |
| ISBN: |
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9786308937996 |
| ISBN-10: |
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6308937991 |
| UPC: |
|
72435909762 |
| Prod.#: |
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CDIS CAR90976 |
| Cat.#: |
|
96339 |
| Genre: |
|
Rock |
| Release type: |
|
Compilation |
| Comments: |
|
Before he became a mind-bendingly prolific creator of guitar-and-electronics-based Gnostic ambient music, Bill Nelson rocked out with the arty but always danceable Be Bop Deluxe. This long-overdue retrospective reveals the group to have been very much a creature of the 1970s, but not necessarily in a bad way; dated sound or not, the musical ideas here are both intriguing and fun. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Outernational Sound |
| Label: |
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Caroline Distribution
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Artist:
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Thievery Corporation |
| Performer: |
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Various |
| ISBN: |
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9786308566455 |
| ISBN-10: |
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6308566454 |
| UPC: |
|
795103007529 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDCDISESL75 |
| Cat.#: |
|
|
| Genre: |
|
Dance, DJ |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
The DJs of Thievery Corporation have put together a wonderful mix of tracks on this disk. It is a warm collection that is more analog then electronica. Songs collected feature sambas, sitars, old reggae and R&B. Some have taken to naming this type of music 'rare groove'. I like to think of it as listening to a really cool, laid back radio station that has a great sense of flow. (DB) |
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| Title: |
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Nancy Sinatra |
| Label: |
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Sanctuary Records Group
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Artist:
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Sinatra, Nancy |
| ISBN: |
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9786308763250 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
630876325X |
| UPC: |
|
060768472921 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECD607684729 |
| Cat.#: |
|
|
| Genre: |
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Popular Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
It is risky for pop/rock icons to work with younger musicians (usually fans) in the hopes of sounding current yet classic. However, it has worked well for some; Marianne Faithfull and Loretta Lynn come to mind. Working with artists such as Morrissey, Calexico and Thurston Moore, Nancy Sinatra has earned her place on this list. Sinatra does a great job of interpreting these songs, whether they be indie rock or country rock. Her voice ranges from passionate to world-weary and makes stops in-between. This is my first true introduction to Nancy Sinatra (hasn't everyone heard Boots) and it has made me a fan.(DB) |
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| Title: |
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Want Two |
| Label: |
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Universal Music Group
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Artist:
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Wainwright, Rufus |
| ISBN: |
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9786308893711 |
| ISBN-10: |
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6308893714 |
| UPC: |
|
602498645871 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDUMG B000371600 |
| Cat.#: |
|
|
| Genre: |
|
Popular Music |
| Release type: |
|
New (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
I could make comparisons to other artists, but it isn't necessary. Rufus Wainwright has truly emerged as an artist with his own unique lyrical voice, backed-up by his own heady mix of chamber pop. This disk is more classical in nature then Want One and features lush strings, choirs and horn sections all perfectly layered. His songs are introspective and could be considered mini-operettas. Lyrics deal with drug abuse, relationships and how his sexuality has shaped him personally and professionally. As if this wasn't enough, Want Two comes with a full-length concert DVD of him giving a transcendental performance at San Francisco's Fillmore East. (DB) |
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 |
| |
| $31.98 |
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| Title: |
|
Eye |
| Label: |
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Radikal
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Artist:
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Yello |
| ISBN: |
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9786308709739 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6308709735 |
| UPC: |
|
602498658635 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDMSIM320939 |
| Cat.#: |
|
RAD 90083-2 |
| Genre: |
|
Rock/Electronica |
| Release type: |
|
New (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
Yes, it's that Yello -- the virtual avatars of goofy 1980s electronica. Dieter Meier and Boris Blank are back with a fun, but ultimately rather insubstantial collection of digital funk and Teutonic whimsy. Expect demand from the over-30 set, though they may find themselves wishing that the band had evolved a bit more over the last 20 years. (RA) |
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 |
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| $16.98 |
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| |
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| Title: |
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Lakeville |
| Label: |
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Nettwerk
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Artist:
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Amy Correia |
| ISBN: |
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9786308793905 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6308793906 |
| UPC: |
|
067003038522 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDNETT30385 |
| Cat.#: |
|
30385 |
| Genre: |
|
Rock |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
More low-key folk-rock from this celebrated Los Angeles singer-songwriter, sung in her trademarked plainspoken style and featuring lots of acoustic piano, quiet drums and the odd steel guitar. These are songs that tend to grow on you rather than hitting you right away with obvious hooks, and they're worth the effort. (RA) |
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| $17.99 |
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| Title: |
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Nightbird |
| Label: |
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Mute
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Artist:
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Erasure |
| ISBN: |
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9786309058645 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309058649 |
| UPC: |
|
724596926024 |
| Prod.#: |
|
CDIS MUT9260 |
| Cat.#: |
|
9260-2 |
| Genre: |
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Rock |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Elsewhere in this issue we cover the new album from 80s electronica faves Yello, so it seems only fair to give coverage to the new Erasure album at the same time. It, too, will please established fans by giving them more of what they loved so much 20 years ago -- big, emotional vocals; pristine synthesizer accompaniments; better-than-average hooks -- though it may not being anyone new to the fold. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Take It Back, Take It On, Take It Over! |
| Label: |
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Side One Dummy
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Artist:
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7 Seconds |
| ISBN: |
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9786309074348 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309074342 |
| UPC: |
|
603967125627 |
| Prod.#: |
|
SID1 71256 |
| Cat.#: |
|
SD1256 |
| Genre: |
|
Rock |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
If your patrons have a hankering for unadulterated old-school punk rock, then they'll thank you for picking up this new disc from Sacramento scene stalwarts 7 Seconds. There's nothing new here, just more headlong, borderline melodic "youth crew"-style punk, delivered by masters of the genre. (RA) |
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| WORLD/ETHNIC |
|
 |
| |
| $16.98 |
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|
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| Title: |
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Elephonic Rhapsodies |
| Label: |
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Mulatta Records
|
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Artist:
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|
Thai Elephant Orchestra |
| ISBN: |
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9786308879104 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
630887910X |
| UPC: |
|
788572891126 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDMTT 9 |
| Cat.#: |
|
MUL008 |
| Genre: |
|
World Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Crazy as it sounds, much of the music on this strange and wonderful album is actually made by elephants, trained to beat drums, shake rattles and tap xylophones and gongs in something surprisingly close to a steady rhythm. American composers Richard Lair and Dave Soldier worked with the Thai Elephant Orchestra to create these charming, brief pieces, all of which are explained nicely in the liner notes and some recorded conversations. Curious but fun. (RA) |
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|
| Title: |
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Guarda-me a Vida Na Mao |
| Label: |
|
World Village (dist. Harmonia Mundi USA)
|
|
Artist:
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Ana Moura |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309125033 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309125036 |
| UPC: |
|
713746803827 |
| Prod.#: |
|
HMD 468038 |
| Cat.#: |
|
468038 |
| Genre: |
|
World |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
A sumptuous and brilliant collection of traditional Portuguese fados by one of that country's most respected practitioners of the genre, Guarda-me a Vida Na Mao ("Keep My Life in Your Hand") offers all the bittersweet musical pleasures one could ask for. Moura's voice is a thing of rich, caramel-colored loveliness, and her delivery is assertive and powerful without being overbearing or bathetic. Very highly recommended. (RA) |
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|
|
| Title: |
|
Ultimate, Volume 1 |
| Label: |
|
Narada
|
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Artist:
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Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309120557 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309120557 |
| UPC: |
|
72435639622 |
| Prod.#: |
|
NARA 63962 |
| Cat.#: |
|
63962-2 |
| Genre: |
|
World/Pakistan |
| Release type: |
|
Compilation (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
Previously available only as a pricey import, this two-disc set offers a valuable window on the early career of the world's most popular Qawwali singer. The package features useful and informative liner notes. A second two-disc volume will also be issued during 2005, and will feature material from the early- to mid-1980s. Strongly recommended to all world music collections. (RA) |
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|
|
| Title: |
|
The Rough Guide To Astor Piazzolla |
| Label: |
|
World Music Network
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Astor Piazzolla |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309076977 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309076973 |
| UPC: |
|
605633114621 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDWMN 331146 |
| Cat.#: |
|
RGNET 1146 CD |
| Genre: |
|
Tango |
| Release type: |
|
Compilation |
| Comments: |
|
If your library already collects Astor Piazzolla, then perhaps this CD will not be anything new. However, if my memories of my service in a public library system hold true, Piazzolla recordings never lasted long on the shelves. So maybe you should buy several copies of this. Like most "Rough Guide" collections, this anthology contains the most well-known pieces but also includes a large span of work. Recommended if that Tango section is looking mighty bare. (DC) |
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| |
| $0.00 |
| |
|
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| |
|
| Title: |
|
Radio Sumatra: The Indonesian FM Experience |
| Label: |
|
Sublime Frequencies
|
|
Artist:
|
|
|
| Performer: |
|
Various |
| Cat.#: |
|
SF021 |
| Genre: |
|
Pop Music, World Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
While Sublime Frequencies have payed tribute to Indonesian pop music before (including one reviewed in the November 2004 issue of CD Hotlist), this time they create an amazing time capsule of musique concrete. The label basically just recorded Indonesian FM radio. While that sounds fairly inocuous, it's like nothing our Westren ears might expect. Every type of pop genre mixed in with top 40 teasers, all jumbled together to create what can only be described as REAL world music! Highly recommneded! (DC) |
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|
 |
| |
| $18.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Egypt |
| Label: |
|
Nonesuch Records
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Youssou N'Dour |
| ISBN: |
|
9786308516474 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6308516473 |
| UPC: |
|
075597969429 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDNONE79694 |
| Cat.#: |
|
79694-2 |
| Genre: |
|
World Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Most of Youssou N'Dour's career has been spent adapting his Senegalese roots for the world music market, using synthesizers and modern studio techniques for a very contemporary sound. In this startling left turn, he collaborates with traditional Egyptian musicians (the Fathy Salama Orchestra) on a a program of Sufi music. The reults are beuatiful and very different from what we've come to expect from N'Dour, though his amazing voice is still the center of attention. (SA) |
|
