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June 2005
Look for "Rick's Pick" 
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| CLASSICAL |
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| Title: |
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A Scottish Ladymass: Sacred Music From Medieval St. Andrew |
| Label: |
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Hyperion (dist. Harmonia Mundi)
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Composer:
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Various Composers |
| Performer: |
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Red Byrd; Yorvix/Potter, Wistreich |
| ISBN: |
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9786309313621 |
| ISBN-10: |
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6309313622 |
| UPC: |
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00034571172996 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDHMD CDA67299 |
| Cat.#: |
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CDA67299 |
| Period: |
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Medieval |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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The tradition of the Lady Mass (a mass specifically held in honor of the Virgin Mary) is an ancient and widespread one. This disc draws on two-part compositions for the Mass from a 13th-century manuscript collection believed to have been composed in St. Andrews, Scotland, in a local style. Nothing here sounds recognizably "Celtic" in any real way, but the collection does offer a fascinating window into the liturgical music of that time and place. No early music collection should pass this up. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Chamber Music For Piano and Strings |
| Label: |
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Cedille (dist. Qualiton)
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Composer:
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Easley Blackwood |
| Performer: |
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Easley Blackwood; Charles Pikler; Gary Stucka |
| ISBN: |
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9786309289957 |
| ISBN-10: |
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6309289950 |
| UPC: |
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00735131908122 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDCED 081 |
| Cat.#: |
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CDR 90000 081 |
| Period: |
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Modern |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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This collection of chamber works by the Chicago-based composer Easley Blackwood offers a fascinating array of styles, from the tonal romanticism of his opus 43 viola sonata to the spiky atonality of his opus 22 piano trio, with the dry, almost quartal-sounding First Violin Sonata falling somewhere between. Nothing here is less than thrilling, and the playing is spectacular. Highly recommended to all collections. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Concerto for String Quartet |
| Label: |
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Naxos
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Composer:
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Arnold Schoenberg |
| Performer: |
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Fred Sherry String Quartet; 20th Century Classics Ensemble; Christopher Oldfather; Jennifer Lane/Craft |
| ISBN: |
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9786309063588 |
| ISBN-10: |
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6309063588 |
| UPC: |
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00747313252022 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDNAXO8557520 |
| Cat.#: |
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8.557520 |
| Period: |
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20th Century |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Those who associate Schoenberg only with the forbidding scholasticism of his dodecaphonic work may be surprised by the sometimes crunchy by ultimately lyrical and good-humored title piece, which is his rearrangement of a Handel concerto grosso. The other works included here are Schoenberg's opus 25 suite for piano, the Lied der Waldteube, and Book of the Hanging Gardens; the program ends with a six-and-a-half minute interview recording from 1949. This is volume 2 in a series of recordings of Schoenberg works conducted by Robert Craft. Essential. |
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| $16.98 |
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| Title: |
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Requiem |
| Label: |
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EMI Classics
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Composer:
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Karl Jenkins |
| Performer: |
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Serendipity; Cor Caerdydd & Cytgan; West Kazakhstan Philharmonic Orchestra; Adiemus Winds & Brass/Jenkins |
| ISBN: |
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9786309334992 |
| ISBN-10: |
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6309334999 |
| UPC: |
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00724355796622 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDEMIC57966B |
| Cat.#: |
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5 57966 2 |
| Period: |
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Modern |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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The most obvious tag for Karl Jenkins' music is "neoromantic," but it's actually more straightforward than that -- he simply writes pretty and heartfelt music for classical instrumentation. Maybe his background as a jazz and pop musician has left him impatient with stodgy scholasticism, or maybe complexity is beyond him -- whatever the explanation, his music is beautiful and not terribly substantive. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Cantatas Vol 1 |
| Label: |
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Soli Deo Gloria (dist. Harmonia Mundi)
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Composer:
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Johann Sebastian Bach |
| Performer: |
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Monteverdi Choir; English Baroque Soloists/Gardiner |
| ISBN: |
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9786309314277 |
| ISBN-10: |
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6309314270 |
| UPC: |
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00843183010127 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDHMD SDG101 |
| Cat.#: |
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SDG 101 |
| Period: |
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Baroque |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
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Bach lovers will recall that the Phillips label (John Eliot Gardiner's former home) had originally planned to release a series of discs documenting the Bach Cantata Pilgrimage of 2000, when Gardiner and his ensembles toured Europe and performed the Bach cantatas according to the liturgical calendar for which they were composed. Phillips lost heart after a few discs, so Gardiner formed his own label (pointedly called Soli Deo Gloria, after the inscription with which Bach signed his manuscripts) and has begun releasing the recordings himself. Beautifully packaged, very well recorded and stunningly performed, this entire series of recordings should find a home in every classical collection. They will almost certainly displace the classic Harnoncourt series and perhaps even the controversial Koopman recordings of more recent vintage. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Complete String Quartets |
| Label: |
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Cedille (dist. Qualiton)
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Composer:
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Felix Mendelssohn |
| Performer: |
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Pacifica Quartet |
| ISBN: |
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9786309289261 |
| ISBN-10: |
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6309289268 |
| UPC: |
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00735131908221 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDCED 082 |
| Cat.#: |
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CDR 90000 082 |
| Period: |
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Romantic |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New (3-discs) |
| Comments: |
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This handy, midpriced three-disc set brings together the seven string quartets of Felix Mendelssohn, along with his four posthumously published movements that are often performed as his "opus 81," but which are presented here (appropriately, I think) as individual musical units. The Pacifica Quartet is one of the brightest young stars on the chamber music scene at the moment, and their playing is brilliant and sensitive on these very emotionally diverse works. Strongly recommended. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Requiem |
| Label: |
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Arte Nova (dist. Allegro)
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Composer:
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Johann Joseph Fux |
| Performer: |
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Clemencic Consort/Clemencic |
| ISBN: |
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9786309305862 |
| ISBN-10: |
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6309305867 |
| UPC: |
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00723721089351 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDAGROANO277770 |
| Cat.#: |
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ANO 277770 |
| Period: |
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Baroque |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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Reissue |
| Comments: |
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Given its super-budget pricing, this disc would almost get a star even if it were only a moderately good recording of a great performance of a unique program of music by a top-notch, underappreciated composer. Since it is, in fact a very fine recording of a great performance of a unique program of music by a top-notch, underappreciated composer, I'd give it ten stars if I could. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Piano Concertos Nos. 12, 21, 23 |
| Label: |
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Naive
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Composer:
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Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart |
| Performer: |
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Fazil Say; Zurcher Kammerorchester/Griffiths |
| ISBN: |
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9786309068361 |
| ISBN-10: |
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6309068369 |
| UPC: |
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00822186049921 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDNAIVV4992 |
| Cat.#: |
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V 4992 |
| Period: |
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Classical |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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I know, I know, who needs another disc of selected Mozart piano concertos, right? Well, I say you can never have too many, especially when they showcase a young and exciting Mozart interpreter like Fazil Say, who plays with an admirable balance between mature deliberation and joyful exuberance. Here's hoping he keeps working his way through the catalog. (RA) |
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| $16.98 |
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| Title: |
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Gloria; Magnificat; Psalm 150 |
| Label: |
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EMI Classics
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Composer:
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John Rutter |
| Performer: |
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King's College Choir; Gonville & Caius College Choir; City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra/Cleobury |
| ISBN: |
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9786309263001 |
| ISBN-10: |
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6309263005 |
| UPC: |
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00724355795229 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDEMIC57952 |
| Cat.#: |
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5 57952 2 |
| Period: |
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Modern |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Love him or hate him, John Rutter is undoubtedly the most popular living composer of serious music in England. If you must hate him, please don't make the toffee-nosed mistake of hating him because he writes gorgeous, tonal music -- hate him because he never met an over-the-top emotional gesture that he didn't like. And I'm not even sure if you should hate him for that. Beware, though: even if you love his Christmas music, you may find these settings of standard Biblical texts just a little bit rich. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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La Casa Del Diavolo |
| Label: |
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Naive
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Composer:
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Various Composers |
| Performer: |
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Enrico Onofri; Ottavio Dantone; Il Giardino Armonico/Antonini |
| ISBN: |
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9786309269805 |
| ISBN-10: |
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6309269801 |
| UPC: |
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00709861303991 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDNAIVOP30399 |
| Cat.#: |
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OP 30399 |
| Period: |
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Late Classical/Early Romantic |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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As its title ("House of the Devil") intimates, this collection of sinfonias, concerti grossi and ballet movements is dedicated to passionate sentiment as expressed by Gluck, Locatelli, CPE Bach, WF Bach and Boccherini -- an interesting mix of Italians and Germans, whose cultural and musical traditions offer markedly different approaches to the expression of passionate sentiment. As always, Il Giardino Armonico's playing is crisp and powerful, and the soloists are top-notch. Highly recommended to all classical collections. (RA) |
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| COUNTRY/FOLK |
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| $19.98 |
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| Title: |
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Live @ The Filmore West |
| Label: |
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Lost Highway
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Artist:
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Lucinda Williams |
| ISBN: |
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9786308833854 |
| ISBN-10: |
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6308833851 |
| UPC: |
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00602498621233 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDUMG B000236802 |
| Cat.#: |
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B000236802 |
| Genre: |
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Popular Music |
| Release type: |
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New (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
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This is not a typical double live album – it’s not a career retrospective, concentrating as it does on recent material, and it’s definitely not a party album, since tempos are almost uniformly slow and the subject matter is similarly downbeat. But Williams makes up in intensity whatever she might seem to lack in speed, and her rough and ready band is really ‘on’ for this recording. Start with any of her other records if you are not familiar with her work, especially her self-titled album,Car Wheels, or World Without Tears, but Live @ the Fillmore is a very good current portrait of the artist. (SA) |
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| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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Moody Bluegrass: Nashville Tribute to the Moody Blues |
| Label: |
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Rounder
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Artist:
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Various |
| Performer: |
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Sam Bush, John Cowan, Alison Brown and others |
| ISBN: |
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9786308790133 |
| ISBN-10: |
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6308790133 |
| UPC: |
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00011661055025 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECD116 6105502 |
| Cat.#: |
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11661-0550-2 |
| Genre: |
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Folk/Bluegrass |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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If you are one of those individuals who like to hear new and alternative versions of tunes you already know, this tribute to the 60s pop group,The Moody Blues CD is for you. Moody Blues Standards like "Nights in White Satin," "Your Wildest Dreams," amd "Ride my See Saw" are given a distinctive tempo and flavor by several well-known and rising stars of modern blugrass. While this will not appeal to pureists of either genre, it certainly makes for some interesting music. (JM) |
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| $13.98 |
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| Title: |
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Cold Roses |
| Label: |
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Lost Highway
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Artist:
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Ryan Adams |
| ISBN: |
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9786309322708 |
| ISBN-10: |
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6309322702 |
| UPC: |
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00602498805022 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDUMG B000434302 |
| Cat.#: |
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B000434302 |
| Genre: |
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Country Rock |
| Release type: |
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New (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
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Ryan Adams supposedly has three records coming out this year, and Cold Roses is the first, a double CD of countryish rock with a Neil Young/Grateful Dead flavor. Adams’ stock seems to go up and down depending more on gossip that music, but his very real talent shines through on what in other hands would be nothing more than a genre exercise. He refuses to be pinned down to one style, but there are a lot of alt-country bands that would kill for songs this good. (SA) |
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| $11.98 |
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| Title: |
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Classic Maritime Music |
| Label: |
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Folkways
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Artist:
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Various |
| ISBN: |
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9786308440588 |
| ISBN-10: |
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6308440582 |
| UPC: |
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00093074005323 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDFOLKSFW40053 |
| Cat.#: |
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SFW40053 |
| Period: |
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Historical |
| Genre: |
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Folk Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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This 32 track compliation of traditional maritime songs from Smithsonian Folkways includes both the rare versions of sea shanties and even those songs that have become part of modern pop music like "Sloop John B" by the Diecy Don Singers which was later made famous by the Beach Boys in the late 1960s. Far from a dry academic compliation, this CD manages to be authentic and still convey the energy and vibrant qualities of maritime music. Artists performing include the royality of modern folk music. Classic Maritime Music is a treasure trove of people and music about life on the sea. Possiblities for research exist for historians, folklorists and those who love traditional music. (JM) |
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| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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Where The Mangoes Are |
| Label: |
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Appleseed (dist. Koch)
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Artist:
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Kate McDonnell |
| ISBN: |
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9786309105462 |
| ISBN-10: |
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6309105469 |
| UPC: |
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00611587108524 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDKHI APR1085 |
| Cat.#: |
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APR CD 1085 |
| Genre: |
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Folk Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Most listeners unfamiliar with modern folk music may not have heard of Kate McDonnell but, among modern singer songwriters, she has already earned a formidable reputation for unique vocals, lyrics and instrumentation. Where the Mangoes Are, her fourth CD, shows her incredible range from the bluesy "Railroad Bill" to the jazz-oriented "Hey Joe" to the rockin "Tumbleweed." McDonnell is destined to be a legend of modern folk and popular music. An excellent lyricist, her words and phrasing create a mood and feeling not to be missed. (JM) |
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| $11.98 |
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| Title: |
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Essential Pete Seeger |
| Label: |
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CBS
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Artist:
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Pete Seeger |
| ISBN: |
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9786309277626 |
| ISBN-10: |
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6309277626 |
| UPC: |
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00827969283523 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDCOLM92835 |
| Cat.#: |
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CK 92835 |
| Genre: |
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Folk Music |
| Release type: |
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Compilation |
| Comments: |
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Summing up influential musicologist/singer/songwriter Seeger’s career in one CD is almost impossible, but this release does manage to hit the high spots. Chronologically starting with Seeger’s important 1941 “Talking Union” organizing anthem, it includes tunes with the Weavers and solo material, balancing traditional fare (“Barbara Allen”) with covers (Leadbelly’s “Goodnight Irene”) and Seeger originals (“Waist Deep in the Big Muddy”). Overall, a fine, if limited, overview of his career. (GH) |
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| $13.98 |
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| Title: |
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Mercy Now |
| Label: |
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Lost Highway
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Artist:
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Mary Gauthier |
| ISBN: |
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9786309137500 |
| ISBN-10: |
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6309137506 |
| UPC: |
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00602498641682 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDUMG B000357002 |
| Cat.#: |
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B0003570-02 |
| Period: |
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Modern |
| Genre: |
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Country Rock |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Mercy Now is Mary Gauthier's fourth CD and one of her most powerful. Reflecting her personal struggles with emotional, physical and substance abuse, songs like "Falling Out of Love" and "Mercy Now" are painful yet eloquent musical offerings delivered in Gauthier's half spoken, whiskey-voice style. Though musicaly simple, the arrangemnts combined with Gauthier's no-nonsense lyrics can't help but produce a profound emotional impact on the listener. This is an excellent example of the modern songwriter's craft at its best and belongs in any collection of modern country/folk music. (JM) |
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| $13.98 |
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| Title: |
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Too Good To Be True |
| Label: |
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Varese Sarabande
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Artist:
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Everly Brothers |
| ISBN: |
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9786309409898 |
| ISBN-10: |
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6309409891 |
| UPC: |
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00030206664126 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECD302 0666412 |
| Cat.#: |
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6641x |
| Genre: |
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Country/Pop |
| Release type: |
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New/Reissue |
| Comments: |
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For Everly Brothers fans, this collection lives up to its title: 17 demo recordings by Don & Phil from 1957 to 1959, and one from 1976. Many of these songs were never recorded by the duo for LPs or singles, and most of these versions have never been heard before. Placed against a backdrop of one acoustic guitar, their harmonies sound even more exquisite and heartbreaking. A short CD, but worth it. (SM) |
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| Title: |
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Back To Me |
| Label: |
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Zoe
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Artist:
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Kathleen Edwards |
| ISBN: |
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9786309160461 |
| ISBN-10: |
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630916046X |
| UPC: |
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00601143104725 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECD011 4310472 |
| Cat.#: |
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0114310472 |
| Genre: |
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Country Rock |
| Release type: |
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| Comments: |
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Kathleen Edwards is from Ottawa, Canada, but she could easily be from the American South. Her second album is a heady mix of folk, country and rock music. While not privy to her love life, one could guess from these songs' lyrics that she has been unlucky in love. Some might compare her to Lucinda Williams, but Ms. Edwards has her own style and drive. Definitely a country artist to watch.(DB) |
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| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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Times Ain't Like They Used To Be Vol. 8:... |
| Label: |
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Yazoo (dist. Koch)
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Artist:
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Various Artists |
| ISBN: |
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9786307774301 |
| ISBN-10: |
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6307774304 |
| UPC: |
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00016351206824 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDKHI YAZ2068 |
| Cat.#: |
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| Genre: |
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Folk |
| Release type: |
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Compilation |
| Comments: |
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If your patrons enjoyed the reissue of Harry Smith's Anthology of American Folk Music (Smithsonian/Folkways), you can confidently recommend ANY of the eight volumes in this wonderful series. Some songs will be familiar from earlier comps, but many cuts are far more obscure, and each volume offers a wide variety of rural music styles culled from 78 rpm recordings of the 1920s and 1930s. Let's just hope that Yazoo keeps them coming! (SM) |
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| $11.98 |
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| Title: |
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No Roses |
| Label: |
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Castle (dist. Rykodisc)
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Artist:
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Shirley Collins |
| ISBN: |
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9786309411716 |
| ISBN-10: |
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6309411713 |
| UPC: |
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00021823620626 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDRD 236206 |
| Cat.#: |
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36206 |
| Period: |
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1971 |
| Genre: |
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Folk Music |
| Release type: |
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| Comments: |
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Interesting set of British folk and folk-rock from Shirley Collins and many, many friends. In fact, the cover lists about 25 luminaries from the British folk-rock scene, including members of Fairport Convention. Inspired by her more, um, progressive company, Collins stretches out in ways she never did before, offering compelling re-arrangements of traditional British folksongs. Check out the "Murder of Maria Martin" for a taste of mesmerizing British folk-rock perfection. (SM) |
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| JAZZ |
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| $19.98 |
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| Title: |
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Phonetics |
| Label: |
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Songlines (dist. Forte)
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Artist:
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Benoit Delbecq Unit |
| UPC: |
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77435155226 |
| Cat.#: |
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SGL SA1552-2 |
| Genre: |
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Avant-Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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For this album, pianist and composer Benoit Delbecq gathered musicians whose work he knew from various jazz scenes around the world, including violist Oene Van Geel, saxophonist Mark Turner, bassist Mark Helias and drummer Emile Biayenda. The result is a fascinating, and sometimes challenging, pastiche of sounds and rhythms, and a salutary mixture of improvisation and carefully-arranged composition. (RA) |
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| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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Stolen Moments |
| Label: |
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Compass
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Artist:
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Alison Brown |
| ISBN: |
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9786309339270 |
| ISBN-10: |
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6309339273 |
| UPC: |
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00766397440026 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDCOMS974400 |
| Cat.#: |
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7 4400 2 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
I'm calling this jazz, but you could just as well call it some kind of mutant folk music -- Alison Brown plays banjo with Scruggs-style drive and Fleck-style elegance, and her compositions are complex and intelligent without being forbidding or especially artsy. Note in particular the arrangement of "Homeward Bound" that features the Indigo Girls. (RA) |
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|
| Title: |
|
Reincarnation Of A Love Bird |
| Label: |
|
Winter & Winter (dist. Allegro)
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Paul Motian and the Electric Bebop Band |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309356505 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
630935650X |
| UPC: |
|
00025091907120 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDAGROWTRJMT919071 |
| Cat.#: |
|
919 071-2 |
| Genre: |
|
Jazz |
| Release type: |
|
Reissue |
| Comments: |
|
There's just something irrestible about a drummer-led band that includes a percussionist, bassist two guitars and two saxophones and that focuses almost exclusively on bebop standards with a particular focus on Thelonious Monk tunes. This album came out on the JMT label about ten years ago and is now reissued by Winter & Winter with typically pretentious and annoying packaging, but man, that sound. (RA) |
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|
 |
| |
| $15.98 |
| |
|
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| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Low Standards |
| Label: |
|
Sons Of Sound
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Steve Shapiro & Pat Bergeson |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309133366 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309133365 |
| UPC: |
|
00656607002628 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDSOFS20026 |
| Cat.#: |
|
SSPCD026 |
| Genre: |
|
Jazz |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
On this very fine mixed set of standards and originals, vibraphonist Steve Shapiro and guitarist Pat Bergeson lead a quartet that also includes bassist Doug Weiss and drummer Jeff Williams (with guest appearances by saxophonist Scott Kreitzer and the smolderingly sexy singer Annie Sellick). There's something pleasingly retro about this group's sound -- there's nothing loungey about them, but something will make you think of cocktails anyway. Not sure how that works. Recommended. (RA) |
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|
 |
| |
| $17.98 |
| |
|
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| |
|
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| Title: |
|
Revival |
| Label: |
|
Heads Up
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Hugh Masekela |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309380234 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309380230 |
| UPC: |
|
00053361309329 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDHEAD3093 |
| Cat.#: |
|
HUCD 3093 |
| Genre: |
|
Jazz |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
On this album, jazz legend Hugh Masekela celebrates his return to South Africa after many years of political exile by collaborating with a broad array of local musicians in a style that fuses jazz with township jive and kawaito sounds. The result is brilliant -- especially when his collaborators are singing. When Masekela sings, the brilliance is somewhat muted. His flugelhorn is as warm and articulate as always, though. (RA) |
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|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Want You |
| Label: |
|
Telarc
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Tony Desare |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309379931 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309379933 |
| UPC: |
|
00089408362026 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDTELA83620 |
| Cat.#: |
|
CD-83620 |
| Genre: |
|
Jazz |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
The charms of this album are entirely conventional, and entirely wonderful: Tony DeSare is a singer of rare warmth and expressiveness, and a pianist of no mean gifts as well. Unfairly, he's also a very good songwriter; if you don't know the repertoire well, you'll be hard pressed to guess which tracks on this album are originals and which are oldies. DeSare is accompanied by an all-star cast of New York swing sessioneers that includes guitarist Bucky Pizzarelli and bassist Mike Lee, among others. Very highly recommended. (RA) |
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|
 |
| |
| $17.98 |
| |
|
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| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Swingin' Stuff |
| Label: |
|
Storyville (dist. Allegro)
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Stuff Smith Quartet |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309356635 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309356631 |
| UPC: |
|
00717101839728 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDAGROSTC8397 |
| Cat.#: |
|
101 8397 |
| Genre: |
|
Jazz |
| Release type: |
|
Reissue |
| Comments: |
|
Jazz violinist Stuff Smith wasn't an elegant technician like Stephane Grappelli or a refined experimentalist like Sven Asmussen -- he favored a guttural tone, a relentless swing, and tunes that gave him lots of room to indulge his love of big gestures and unusual (sometimes downright unattractive) sound experiments. This live set was recorded only a couple of years before his death in 1957, and finds him at the top of his form on a program of swing standards. By the way, that's a young Kenny Drew on piano. Recommended. (RA) |
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|
 |
| |
| $16.98 |
| |
|
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| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Third World |
| Label: |
|
Alula (dist. Allegro)
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Dominic Miller |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309302250 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309302256 |
| UPC: |
|
00616498301026 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDAGROALU3010 |
| Cat.#: |
|
ALU-3010 |
| Genre: |
|
Jazz |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
This is a true solo album by the regular guitarist for Sting's band; while a few tracks feature one or two supporting players, most feature Miller alone, playing in a contemplative, often Latin-inflected style. The charms of this album are subtle but real, and there's interesting complexity beneath its soft, smooth surface if you listen for it. (RA) |
|
|
| ROCK/POP |
|
 |
| |
| $16.98 |
| |
|
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| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Picaresque |
| Label: |
|
Kill Rock Stars/Touch N Go
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Decemberists |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309203366 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309203363 |
| UPC: |
|
00759656042529 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDKRS 60425 |
| Cat.#: |
|
60425 |
| Genre: |
|
Rock, Alternative Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Picaresque is the third and most accessible release from this theatrical, indie-pop group from Portland, OR. The band's music is similar to reading a literary novel, with references to mythology, seafaring, love, drowning and death. At times, the disk is reminiscent of Neutral Milk Hotel and Belle & Sebastian, yet somehow remains completely unique. The band and album are deservedly starting to get a buzz, so buy now.(DB) |
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|
 |
| |
| $17.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Chicken And Ribs |
| Label: |
|
Majestic
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Dread Zeppelin |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309112897 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309112899 |
| UPC: |
|
00800154014225 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDMAJC142 |
| Cat.#: |
|
142 |
| Genre: |
|
Rock/Reggae |
| Release type: |
|
New (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
A Led Zeppelin cover band that performs its versions in a reggae style? While fronted by an Elvis impersonator? It'll never sell, right? The thing is, it has -- and the band is now in its 16th year of inspired musical goofiness. If the music weren't genuinely catchy and fun this trick would have never worked, but it is, and this CD-and-DVD package will appeal to anyone who loves a good hook and a good joke. (RA) |
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|
|
| Title: |
|
Seventeen Seconds |
| Label: |
|
Rhino
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Cure |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309291745 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309291742 |
| UPC: |
|
00081227468224 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDELEK74682 |
| Cat.#: |
|
R2 74682 |
| Genre: |
|
Rock |
| Release type: |
|
Reissue (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
The Cure's back catalog is finally getting the attention it deserves, in the form of typically loving repackaging with lavish bonus materials from the Rhino label. The other two titles being reissued at the same time as this one are Faith (R2 74683) and Pornography (R2 74684), and all are worth acquiring -- but I'm giving the nod to this one, which serves as a bridge between the band's spare, punkier sound and its later sonic experimentation. No pop music library should be without these albums. (RA) |
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|
|
|
| Title: |
|
King Of America |
| Label: |
|
Rhino
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Elvis Costello |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309291844 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
630929184X |
| UPC: |
|
00081227464226 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDRHIN74642 |
| Cat.#: |
|
R2 74642 |
| Genre: |
|
Rock |
| Release type: |
|
Reissue (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
Critics fight all the time over the question of which Elvis Costello album was his best, but few would tap this one for the honor. I agree, but I'd call it a top-three pick. Leading a motley band that includes Elvis Presley's old sidemen and touching on just about every American music tradition in the course of the album's long and discursive program, Costello delivers one of the most complex and emotionally satisfying albums of his career. Rhino's reissue includes a 21-track bonus disc as well as lyrics. Brilliant. (RA) |
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|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Entertainment! |
| Label: |
|
Rhino
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Gang Of Four |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309346285 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309346288 |
| UPC: |
|
00081227842826 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDWARN78428 |
| Cat.#: |
|
R2 78428 |
| Genre: |
|
Rock, Alternative Music |
| Release type: |
|
Reissue |
| Comments: |
|
GOF’s 1979 debut is a dynamic, angry, grinding attack on consumer culture, capitalism, and the media. Loud and somewhat simplistic, fueled by thrashing guitar chords and funky bass, Entertainment! is a one-of-a-kind recording that somehow managed to successfully mix Marxist lyrics with infectious dance rhythms. This new remastered edition includes 8 additional tracks. Recommended. (GH) |
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
DFA Compilation No 2 |
| Label: |
|
DFA (dist. Caroline)
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Various Artists |
| ISBN: |
|
9786308858284 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6308858285 |
| UPC: |
|
00829732214024 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDCDISDFA2140 |
| Cat.#: |
|
8 74909 2 |
| Genre: |
|
Rock, Alternative Music |
| Release type: |
|
Boxed Set (3-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
The price is right for this three-disc compilation of tracks from the world's finest purveyor of weirdo dance music (which, when you think about it, is the really the only kind of dance music worth listening to). Bands like Pixeltan, j.o.y., The Juan Maclean and Black Leotard Front may not be household names, but they should be, and your library can make it happen. Do your duty. (RA) |
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Renaissance: The Mix Collection |
| Label: |
|
Renaissance/K7 Studio
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Sasha & John Digweed |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309035271 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309035274 |
| UPC: |
|
00881812403292 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDK7 REN17 |
| Cat.#: |
|
Ren17CD |
| Genre: |
|
Dance, DJ |
| Release type: |
|
Boxed Set (3-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
This three-disc DJ mix was ambitious when it was originally released in 1994, and although some of the material sounds just a bit dated now, it's still an essential document of one of the high points in the development of British dance music. Sasha and John Digweed remain influential figures, and their taste is still impressive. The new packaging is wonderful and the remastered sound quality is excellent. (RA) |
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
More Music for Films |
| Label: |
|
Astralwerks
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Brian Eno |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309200242 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309200240 |
| UPC: |
|
00724356364929 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDCDISASW63649 |
| Cat.#: |
|
5 63649 2 |
| Genre: |
|
Rock, Alternative Music |
| Release type: |
|
Reissue |
| Comments: |
|
EMI/Virgin/Caroline/Astralwerks' long-awaited Brian Eno reissue project continues brilliantly; just about all of Eno's "ambient" and pop solo albums have now been reissued, and all should be considered essential for any popular music collection. More Music for Films is especially welcome, because this disc was originally available only as part of a boxed set. The only disappointment is the lack of musician credits (but yes, that's probably Busta Jones on bass and Robert Fripp on guitar). (RA) |
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|
 |
| |
| $16.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Retreated |
| Label: |
|
Compost (dist. Caroline)
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Truby Trio |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309097569 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309097563 |
| UPC: |
|
00667548517225 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDCDISCMR167 |
| Cat.#: |
|
167-2 |
| Genre: |
|
Dance, DJ |
| Release type: |
|
New (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
Meet the Truby Trio: three slightly insane remix artists from Germany, whose foldings, spindlings and mutilations of tracks by the likes of Louie Vega and Senor Coconut have made them darlings of Teutonic dancefloors across the country. This two-disc set brings together mixes that were previously available only on vinyl, along with a new continuous-mix disc. Funky, glitchy, complex and fun, this collection is sure to greatly enliven any staff party. (RA) |
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Songs Of No Consequence |
| Label: |
|
Bloodshot
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Graham Parker |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309389305 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309389300 |
| UPC: |
|
00744302012322 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDBLOD20123 |
| Cat.#: |
|
BS 123 |
| Genre: |
|
Rock |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
He'd probably get mad at you if you called this a "back to his roots" album, but then, Graham Parker seems like one of those guys who gets mad no matter what, so here goes: On Songs of No Consequence, Graham Parker gets back to his roots with sharp, sometimes snide pop songs filled with winning hooks and meat-and-potatoes pub-rock riffs. If you remember Howling Wind with fondness and still have the upper range of your hearing, you'll want this one in your collection. (RA) |
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|
 |
| |
| $22.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Prisoners Of Love: A Smattering Of Scintillating Senescent Songs 1985-2003 |
| Label: |
|
Matador
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Yo La Tengo |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309203403 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309203401 |
| UPC: |
|
00744861064527 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDMATR10645 |
| Cat.#: |
|
10645 |
| Genre: |
|
Rock, Alternative Music |
| Release type: |
|
Compilation (3-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
The list of bands influenced by the Velvet Underground is a large one, but no one has done it better than Yo La Tengo, especially since they’ve managed to forge a path of their own by incorporating a variety of other influences into both the harsh and quiet sides of the VU tradition, sometimes all in the same song. Prisoners of Love is a nice overview of their career, offering a few songs from each of their albums, along with a bonus disc of rarities. You can’t go wrong with any of their albums, particularly the recent ones, but if you just want to sample some of the best music the indie subculture has to offer, this is the place. (SA) |
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|
 |
| |
| $18.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Devils & Dust |
| Label: |
|
Cbs/Epic/Wtg Records
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Springsteen, Bruce |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309278234 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309278231 |
| UPC: |
|
00827969390023 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BEDFCOLM93900 |
| Cat.#: |
|
93900 |
| Genre: |
|
Rock, Alternative Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Springsteen’s first album of new material since 2002’s The Rising, at first seems like a throwback to the downbeat acoustic mode last seen on 1995’s Ghost of Tom Joad, a style he explored first (and most successfully) on 1982’s Nebraska. But on closer inspection the arrangements and instrumentation, not to mention the lyrical approach, are more varied here, and he seems to be trying to reach a place where he has access to all of his tools at the same time. This is not going to be anyone’s favorite Springsteen album probably, but give him credit for continuing to grow, as well as for tackling tough issues in a way no other mainstream artist would even attempt. (SA) |
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|
 |
| |
| $13.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Martha Wainwright |
| Label: |
|
Zoe
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Martha Wainwright |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309279248 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309279246 |
| UPC: |
|
00601143106323 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECD011 4310632 |
| Cat.#: |
|
01143-1063-2 |
| Genre: |
|
Popular Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
The daughter of Kate McGarrigle and Loudon Wainwright III, Martha’s genes serve her well on this outstanding full-length debut. Delivered with a voice pleasantly reminiscent of her mom’s, Martha’s songs are unique, finely crafted gems. While her theme is often unrequited love, Wainwright adds a feminist twist that recalls Liz Phair’s early work, and delivers it with a sly, biting humor that would make her daddy proud. Recommended. (GH) |
|
|
| WORLD/ETHNIC |
|
 |
| |
| $17.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Niyaz |
| Label: |
|
Six Degrees
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Niyaz |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309241856 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309241850 |
| UPC: |
|
00657036111028 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDSXDR361110 |
| Cat.#: |
|
657036 1110-2 |
| Genre: |
|
World Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Azam Ali, Loga Ramin Torkian and Carmen Rizzo are a trio specializing in a sort of modern trans-Eurasian folk music that incorporates elements from Iran, India, Europe and other regions. The result will probably sound mainly Middle Eastern to most American ears; electronic beats and instruments are mixed tastefully with traditional instrumentation, and Ali's voice is a thing of vinergary, insinuating beauty. Recommended. (RA) |
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|
 |
| |
| $17.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Dakshina |
| Label: |
|
Narada
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Deva Premal |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309261595 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309261592 |
| UPC: |
|
00724386029126 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDNARA60291 |
| Cat.#: |
|
60291 |
| Genre: |
|
New Age/World |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Raised in a German home suffused with South Asian mysticism, Deva Premal began chanting and singing early in life. With her partner Miten, she now performs and records devotional music regularly, usually with accompaniment that varies from minimalist to electronically lush. Her latest album falls into the latter category, and is exceptionally lovely. Use it for yoga or just for relaxing at the end of a long day filled with irritable patrons. (RA) |
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|
 |
| |
| $14.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Putumayo Presents: Afro Latin Party |
| Label: |
|
Putumayo (dist. Koch)
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Various Artists |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309129550 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309129554 |
| UPC: |
|
00790248023526 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDKHI PUT235 |
| Cat.#: |
|
PUT 235-2 |
| Genre: |
|
World Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Purists can scoff all they want at the Putumayo label's dilletantish approach to the world's musical traditions, but the simple fact is that their collections provide handy and generally well-selected introductions to those traditions for people who are interested but don't have the time or expertise to do the research themselves. I say, good for Putumayo. This collection is typical: fun, funky, extensively annotated (in three languages, of course). Public libraries really ought to stock everything in the Putumayo catalog. (RA) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $17.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Waiting For An Echo |
| Label: |
|
Shanachie
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Solas |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309104816 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309104810 |
| UPC: |
|
00016351786029 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDKHI SHA78060 |
| Cat.#: |
|
78060 |
| Genre: |
|
Celtic |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Led by multi-instrumental wunderkind Seamus Egan, Solas is one of the most exciting bands on the traditional Irish scene right now. Their latest album includes some fine original compositions as well along with the usual traditional reel and jig sets, as well as several songs winningly sung by Deirdre Scanlon. (RA) |
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Marrakesh Mission |
| Label: |
|
Union Square Label Group
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Various Artists |
| ISBN: |
|
9786308867378 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6308867373 |
| UPC: |
|
00698458301826 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDUSQ OCH18 |
| Cat.#: |
|
OCHODCD018 |
| Genre: |
|
World Music |
| Release type: |
|
New (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
The subtitle tells you most of what you need to know: "Arabic moods, souk specials and beats for belly dancers." Expect lots of skittering hand-held percussion, slinky strings and Arabic singing, not to mention smatterings of turntable scratching, funky breakbeats and the odd startling ululation. A number of usual suspects have been rounded up, including the always wonderful Natacha Atlas and former Specials frontman Terry Hall. (RA) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $17.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Nhava |
| Label: |
|
Heads Up
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Oliver Mtukudzi |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309318978 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309318977 |
| UPC: |
|
00053361310226 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDHEAD3102 |
| Cat.#: |
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HUCD 3102 |
| Genre: |
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World Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Zimbabwean singer/songwriter Oliver Mtukudzi has been a musical force in his native country since 1975; with his move to the Heads Up label, he's poised to make his presence more powerfully felt in the United States as well. This jazzy, complex, but easily accessible album should give him a good start here. If your patrons like Thomas Mapfumo and Dorothy Masuka, you'll want to steer them in Mtukudzi's direction. (RA) |
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| $16.98 |
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| Title: |
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Sabou |
| Label: |
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Riverboat
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Artist:
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Mory Kante |
| ISBN: |
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9786308791352 |
| ISBN-10: |
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6308791350 |
| UPC: |
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00605633003420 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDWMN 330034 |
| Cat.#: |
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TUGCD 1034 |
| Genre: |
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World Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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A native of Guinea, Mory Kante has been internationally known since the mid-1980s in Europe for his intircate melodies and sophisticated percussion. This new release has all those qualities but also features Kante's return to traditional instruments including the balafon and the 21-string harp-like kora which gives the songs a authentic Guinean feel and texture. Kante will surely grow in popularity amoung western audiences and Sabou is a must for any international music collection. (JM) |
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© CD HotList 2004 |
