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| CLASSICAL |
|
|
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| Title: |
|
Sonatas & Trios |
| Label: |
|
CPO
|
|
Composer:
|
|
Wilhelm Friedemann Bach |
| Performer: |
|
Camerata Koln |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310141862 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6310141864 |
| UPC: |
|
00761203708628 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDCPO 777086 |
| Cat.#: |
|
777 086-2 |
| Period: |
|
Baroque/Early Classical |
| Genre: |
|
Classical |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Johann Sebastian Bach's oldest son has suffered the posthumous indignity of being lost not only under his father's enormous shadow, but also under the considerable one of his younger brother Carl Philipp Emanuel. And while it's true that he's not quite the same talent as the latter (let alone the former), there's something about these chamber works -- something strangely sad and tender -- that will make you want to seek out more of his work. Camerata Koln are splendid as always, and so is the recorded sound. Highly recommended to all classical collections. (RA) |
|
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|
|
| Title: |
|
Markus-Passion 1755 |
| Label: |
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Amati (dist. Qualiton)
|
|
Composer:
|
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Georg Philipp Telemann |
| Performer: |
|
Magdeburg Telemann Consort; Biederitz Chamber Choir / Michael Scholl |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310097282 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6310097288 |
| UPC: |
|
00675754897529 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDAMAT2302 |
| Cat.#: |
|
ami 2302/2 |
| Period: |
|
Baroque |
| Genre: |
|
Classical |
| Release type: |
|
New (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
Even if this were a lackluster performance, the fact that it's a world-premiere recording of a neglected oratorio by one of the giants of baroque music would make it a must-have for any classical collection. The fact that it's a lush and beautiful recording of a very fine performance only makes it more of an essential purchase. Very highly recommended to all libraries. (RA) |
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|
 |
| |
| $18.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
 |
|
| Title: |
|
Sonatas for Violin & Piano |
| Label: |
|
Amon Ra (dist. Qualiton)
|
|
Composer:
|
|
Johann Nepomuk Hummel |
| Performer: |
|
Ralph Holmes; Richard Burnett |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310097305 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
631009730X |
| UPC: |
|
00750582234927 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDAMON12 |
| Cat.#: |
|
SAR 12 |
| Period: |
|
Classical |
| Genre: |
|
Classical |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
This fine program of two violin sonatas and one nocturne for violin and fortepiano shows us Hummel at three different stages of his musical career. Holmes and Burnett make a powerful case for Hummel as a genius of basically light music; if the balance of the recording isn't quite what I personally would prefer (I wish the violin were closer), it's an attractive sound nonetheless and Holmes plays with a particularly involving energy. Recommended. (RA) |
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|
 |
| |
| $17.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Renaissance Favorites for Guitar |
| Label: |
|
Telarc
|
|
Composer:
|
|
Various Composers |
| Performer: |
|
David Russell |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310163352 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6310163353 |
| UPC: |
|
00089408065927 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDTELA80659 |
| Cat.#: |
|
CD-80659 |
| Period: |
|
Renaissance |
| Genre: |
|
Classical |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Alongside familiar works by John Dowland and William Byrd, this fine collection of Renaissance lute and guitar compositions features pieces by less famous European figures such as Pietro Paolo Borrono, Joan Ambrosio Dalza and Luys de Narvaez, all performed brilliantly on guitar by David Russell. Maybe not an essential purchase for every library, but very very nice. (RA) |
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Choregraphie: Music for Louis XIV's Dancing Masters |
| Label: |
|
Harmonia Mundi
|
|
Composer:
|
|
Jean-henry D'Anglebert; Jean-Baptiste Lully; Andre Campra |
| Performer: |
|
Andrew Lawrence-King |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311023815 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00093046733520 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDHMD HMU907335 |
| Cat.#: |
|
HMU 907335 |
| Period: |
|
Baroque |
| Genre: |
|
Classical |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
The title of this disc refers to an innovative book by Raoul-Auger Feulliet, who pioneered the use of dance notation in the early 18th century. The music, all played on the baroque triple harp by Andrew Lawrence-King, is a collection of dance movements by Jean-Henry D'Anglebert and several other composers and originally published in Feuillet's book. It's a delightful recording, and hearing this repertoire played on solo harp is quite unusual. Strongly recommended to all classical collections. (RA) |
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|
 |
| |
| $16.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Violin Concertos 1-3 |
| Label: |
|
Virgin Classics
|
|
Composer:
|
|
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart |
| Performer: |
|
Europa Galante / Fabio Biondi |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310106496 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
631010649X |
| UPC: |
|
00094634470629 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDVIRG44706 |
| Cat.#: |
|
3 44706 2 |
| Period: |
|
Classical |
| Genre: |
|
Classical |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
"Oh, good!," I hear you cry. "Another recording of Mozart violin concertos. How exciting." What can I say, except that it is 2006 after all, and besides, Biondi and his crew really do make a solid case for these pieces on period instruments. Biondi, in particular, plays with plenty of expression and elan. I'd put this disc up against any modern-instrument interpretation. (RA) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $11.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Rediscovering Old American Hymns |
| Label: |
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MSR Classics (dist. Albany)
|
|
Composer:
|
|
Various Composers |
| Performer: |
|
Metropolitan Opera Chorus |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310070872 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6310070878 |
| UPC: |
|
00681585115725 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDMSRCMS1157 |
| Cat.#: |
|
MS 1157 |
| Period: |
|
19th Century |
| Genre: |
|
Religious |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
I love hymn collections, and this one features some real classics. Those who are paying attention will see what the problem is, though -- it's that pesky word "Opera" in the name of the performing ensemble. These are fine singers, but they have an unsurprising tendency to deliver these sturdy, unfussy songs as if they'd been written by Verdi. The result is a little bit disconcerting, but not entirely unattractive. Still, I'll take the Boston Camerata's approach over this group's any day. (RA) |
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|
 |
| |
| $15.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Savage Altars |
| Label: |
|
New Albion
|
|
Composer:
|
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Ingram Marshall |
| Performer: |
|
Tudor Choir; Sarah Cahill; Joseph Kubera; Benjamin verdery |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310123776 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6310123777 |
| UPC: |
|
00022551013025 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDNA 130 |
| Cat.#: |
|
NA 130 |
| Period: |
|
Modern |
| Genre: |
|
Classical |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
This disc offers a nice overview of recent works by American composer Ingram Marshall. The title piece is a large-scale choral work that juxtaposes texts from the Magnificat and from the Roman historian Tacitus; there are also two works for piano and one for guitar, the latter featuring an interesting use of digital echo and delay. Marshall's music is always complex but accessible, and the performances are very good. (RA) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $16.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Music for Queen Mary |
| Label: |
|
EMI Classics
|
|
Composer:
|
|
Henry Purcell |
| Performer: |
|
Choir of King's College; Academy of Ancient Music / Stephen Cleobury |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310106533 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6310106538 |
| UPC: |
|
00094634443821 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDEMIC44438B |
| Cat.#: |
|
3 44438 2 |
| Period: |
|
Baroque |
| Genre: |
|
Classical |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Granted, Henry Purcell's ceremonial music for Queen Mary isn't exactly a neglected repertoire, but this new performance of the funeral and birthday odes and anthems is especially warm and elegant. Note in particular the performances of countertenors David Hansen and Tim Mead. Recommended. (RA) |
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Overtures, Op. 8 |
| Label: |
|
Naxos
|
|
Composer:
|
|
Samuel Arnold |
| Performer: |
|
Toronto Camerata / Kevin Mallon |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310056562 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6310056565 |
| UPC: |
|
00747313248421 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDNAXO8557484 |
| Cat.#: |
|
8.557484 |
| Period: |
|
Classical |
| Genre: |
|
Classical |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
I review a lot of CDs, which means that I don't have as much time as I'd like to listen to some of them over and over. I've made time for this one, which features theater music by British composer Samuel Arnold -- a tremendously popular figure in his time, but one who has been sadly neglected in recent years. This is music of grace and wit and wonderful melodic invention, performed beautifully (on modern instruments) by the Toronto Camerata. And as always, the budget-friendly pricing from Naxos is icing on the cake. (RA) |
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|
 |
| |
| $17.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Nuove Musiche |
| Label: |
|
ECM
|
|
Composer:
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|
Rolf Lislevand |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310030821 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6310030825 |
| UPC: |
|
00028947630494 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDUMG B000507002 |
| Cat.#: |
|
1922 |
| Period: |
|
Baroque/Modern |
| Genre: |
|
Classical |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
For this lovely and unusual album, baroque guitarist and lutenist Rolf Lislevand took selections from works of Johann Kapsberger, Girolamo Frescobaldi, Domenico Pellegrini and others and created new settings and adaptations for them -- a conscious reversal of the usual period-instrument approach of trying to stick as closely as possible to historical conventions and the composer's presumed intentions. The result is both fascinating and enjoyable. (RA) |
|
|
| COUNTRY/FOLK |
|
 |
| |
| $17.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Blackthorn: Irish Love Songs |
| Label: |
|
World Village (dist. Harmonia Mundi)
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Susan Mckeown |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310072227 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6310072226 |
| UPC: |
|
00713746805425 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDHMD 468054 |
| Cat.#: |
|
468054 |
| Genre: |
|
Celtic |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
If I'm not careful, I tend to recommend in an almost reflexive manner everything that Susan McKeown does. And in fact, I'm not sure this collection of Irish love songs is actually among her best work -- but her middling stuff is as good as most singers' best, so it still gets a solid recommendation. Note in particular the Basque and South American influences that weave their way subtly through the program. (RA) |
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|
 |
| |
| $25.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Me |
| Label: |
|
Sunbeam
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Mary-Anne Paterson |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310115160 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6310115162 |
| UPC: |
|
05051125501113 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDMSIM510517 |
| Cat.#: |
|
SBR 5011 |
| Genre: |
|
Folk |
| Release type: |
|
Reissue |
| Comments: |
|
This is a long-lost classic from the late-60s Folk Scare, and a reissue that denizens of that scene will surely welcome. The rest of us may wonder what the fuss was about. Paterson's voice is pleasant enough, but the song choices are obvious to the point of banality and despite the fact that this reissue was remastered from the original tapes, the sound quality is mushy and unpleasant. The arrangements are very 60s. The price is bafflingly high. Comprehensive folk collections should probably own this album for its historical significance, but others should feel free to pass. (RA) |
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|
 |
| |
| $17.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
New Day |
| Label: |
|
Rounder
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Claire Lynch |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310089676 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6310089676 |
| UPC: |
|
00011661056329 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECD116 6105632 |
| Cat.#: |
|
11661-0563-2 |
| Genre: |
|
Country |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Like her labelmate Alecia Nugent, Claire Lynch isn't so much a bluegrass artist as an acoustic country artist. Unlike Nugent, Lynch has been doing this for about a quarter of a century; her experience shows in the confidence of her singing and in her taste in covers, which include pop and swing numbers as well as more predictable country and bluegrass fare. Very nice. (RA) |
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|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Six Strings North Of The Border Vol. 3 |
| Label: |
|
Borealis
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Various Artists |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310141039 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6310141031 |
| UPC: |
|
00773958117327 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDBRLS173 |
| Cat.#: |
|
BCD173 |
| Genre: |
|
Folk Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
This is the third volume in an ongoing series of showcase discs featuring some of Canada's finest acoustic guitarists playing everything from original folk (and not-so-folk) compositions to Celtic and Quebecois fiddle tunes, jazz standards and showtunes. Fans of the Borealis label will know what to expect: world-class quality in terms of both music and production. Note in particular Olivier Demers' heartbreakingly beautiful "Du Haut du Balcon." Wonderful. (RA) |
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|
 |
| |
| $14.98 |
| |
|
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| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Country is My Rock |
| Label: |
|
Lyric Street
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Trent Tomlinson |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310031187 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
631003118X |
| UPC: |
|
00720616506023 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECD206 1650602 |
| Cat.#: |
|
65060 |
| Genre: |
|
Country & Western |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
The guy wears a schmatte and earrings like Little Stevie and apparently rides a Harley, but his bad-boy image mostly stops at the recording studio door: Country Is My Rock is straight-ahead modern honky-tonk, complete with charmingly hokey wordplay, plenty of barroom bravado, and a rich, smooth vocal style. Well, okay -- "The Next Time" does rock out quite heavily. But it's the rockish exception to a generally (and pleasantly) mainstream country rule. (RA) |
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|
 |
| |
| $16.99 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Yonder Mountain String Band |
| Label: |
|
Vanguard
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Yonder Mountain String Band |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310124889 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6310124889 |
| UPC: |
|
00015707980128 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDVANG79801 |
| Cat.#: |
|
944-2 |
| Genre: |
|
Folk Rock |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
For their latest release, the Yonder Mountain String band teamed up with a producer better known for his work with rockers like the Foo Fighters and Elliott Smith, and the result is a departure from the band's usual sound. At times they evoke middle-period REM, at others they sound like a bluegrass band with drums. It's not a bad sound, but it does come across at times as more of an awkward amalgam (grungey guitar plus banjo) than a fully integrated concept. Also, the vocals could be a bit stronger. (RA) |
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|
| JAZZ |
|
 |
| |
| $12.97 |
| |
|
| |
|
| Title: |
|
Swingin' With the Nate Najar Quartet |
| Label: |
|
Blue Line
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Nate Najar Quartet |
| UPC: |
|
837101134187 |
| Cat.#: |
|
BLM 1205 |
| Genre: |
|
Jazz |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Guitarist Nate Najar plays jazz on a nylon-string classical guitar, an unusual choice that has allowed him to stake out a unique niche in the jazz world while focusing on accessible, straightforward mainstream jazz styles. On his latest album he leads a quartet that includes vibraphone, bass and drums, and delivers a thoroughly charming all-standards program. His rhythmic approach is firm but gentle, and his solos are consistently inventive and fun. Highly recommended to all jazz collections. (RA) |
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|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Thunderbird |
| Label: |
|
Blue Note
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Cassandra Wilson |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310039527 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6310039520 |
| UPC: |
|
00724386339829 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDBNOT63398 |
| Cat.#: |
|
50254 |
| Genre: |
|
Jazz |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
You kind of have to classify this as "jazz" simply because it's Cassandra Wilson and it's on the Blue Note label. But really, this remarkably beautiful album (which is produced by T Bone Burnett, features a Jacob Dylan song and guitar playing by Marc Ribot, and prominently features electronic rhythms as well as vintage blues songs) can't be pigeonholed into any one stylistic designation. Wilson's gorgeous, smoky voice brings it all together in a way that seems impossible and completely natural at the same time. Strongly recommended to all library collections. (RA) |
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|
 |
| |
| $15.99 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Art of the Heart |
| Label: |
|
Art of Life
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Eddie Gomez; Mark Kramer |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310201702 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6310201700 |
| UPC: |
|
804640101925 |
| Cat.#: |
|
AL1019-2 |
| Genre: |
|
Jazz |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Veteran bassist Eddie Gomez teamed up with pianist Mark Kramer to record this soft and lovely duo album on Valentine's Day, 2004. As you might expect, the music is sentimental and reflective and the program consists largely of standards. The interplay between Kramer and Gomez is impressive; unfortunately, Gomez's intonation on the arco passages is sometimes less so. Still, it's a very pleasant album overall. (RA) |
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|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Quiet Kenny [Remaster] |
| Label: |
|
New Jazz/Prestige
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Kenny Dorham |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310064529 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6310064525 |
| UPC: |
|
00025218810821 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDPSGR8108 |
| Cat.#: |
|
PRCD-8108-2 |
| Genre: |
|
Jazz |
| Release type: |
|
Reissue |
| Comments: |
|
This review has a twofold purpose: to notify CD HotList readers of a very fine specific jazz reissue (Dorham is at the peak of his powers on this wonderful quartet date) but also to remind you that Fantasy has been putting out a steady stream ofremastered versions of the Rudy Van Gelder sessions in its vast catalog, with new liner notes. These are a treasure trove; not all libraries will need every one in the series, but most jazz collections will want to consider picking up most of them. (RA) |
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|
 |
| |
| $17.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Rhapsody In Blue |
| Label: |
|
Telarc Jazz
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Michel Camilo; Orquestra Simfonica de Barcelona i Nacional de Catalunya / Ernest Martinez Izquierdo |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310005539 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6310005537 |
| UPC: |
|
00089408361128 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDTELA83611 |
| Cat.#: |
|
CD-83611 |
| Genre: |
|
Jazz |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
George Gerschwin wanted, more than anything, to be taken seriously as a classical composer. But if his Rhapsody in Blue" and piano concerto demonstrate anything, it's that he should have been happy with his status as one of the finest melodists and jazz composers of his century. Pianist Michel Camilo plays both works (along with the Prelude No. 2) with grace and passion, and the orchestra sounds marvelous. (RA) |
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Dues In Progress |
| Label: |
|
Capri
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Keith Oxman |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310063195 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6310063197 |
| UPC: |
|
00054987407529 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDCPRI74075 |
| Cat.#: |
|
74075-2 |
| Genre: |
|
Jazz |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Saxophonist Keith Oxman shows off his triple-threat chops as a player, composer and arranger on this wonderfully appealing program of standards and originals. The octet he leads here swings powerfully on everything from the Caribbean-flavored "Cap'n Kidd" (an old Curtis Fuller number) to Oxmoan's own excellent title track, and sways winningly ballads like "Darn That Dream" and the bittersweet "Thirty One for Strayhorn." Beautifully written, beautifully played and beautifully recorded, this album can be confidently recommended to any jazz collection. (RA) |
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|
 |
| |
| $17.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Vossabrygg |
| Label: |
|
ECM
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Terje Rypdal |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309995308 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309995308 |
| UPC: |
|
00602498753811 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDUMG B000597502 |
| Cat.#: |
|
ECM 1984 |
| Genre: |
|
Jazz Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Recorded live in Norway at the Vossa Jazz Festival, Vossabrygg translates to “Vossa Brew,” a fitting title for this extended suite inspired by Miles Davis’ 1970 jazz/fusion classic, Bitches Brew. Guitarist Rypdal fronts an octet that lovingly cites the themes of Miles’ masterpiece, quoting directly from the original recording many times. Yet all is not derivative – Rydpal effectively weaves his own material around Miles’ motifs, while ECM’s pristine, cool production techniques and the judicious use of samples and electronics impart a decidedly 21st century air to the works. As a result, this succeeds as both homage and a fresh, original work. Highly recommended. (GH) |
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|
 |
| |
| $15.98 |
| |
|
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| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Spirit Songs |
| Label: |
|
Sons Of Sound
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Anthony Branker & Ascent |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309890719 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309890719 |
| UPC: |
|
00656607002826 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDSOFS20028 |
| Cat.#: |
|
SSPCD028 |
| Genre: |
|
Jazz |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
A celebrated composer and academic, Anthony Branker is also a fine trumpeter, but he doesn't actually perform on this set of eight original compositions scored for jazz sextet. The music isn't exactly groundbreaking, but its modal harmonies are consistently attractive and the band's playing is top-notch. Especially fun is the reggae-derived groove of "Imani." Maybe not an essential purchase for all libraries, but most jazz collections would benefit from having this fine disc. (RA) |
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|
 |
| |
| $17.98 |
| |
|
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| |
|
|
| Title: |
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Sangam |
| Label: |
|
ECM
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Charles Lloyd |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310090658 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6310090658 |
| UPC: |
|
00602498751831 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDUMG B000616002 |
| Cat.#: |
|
1976 |
| Genre: |
|
World Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Since joining the ECM roster in 1989, multi-instrumentalist Charles Lloyd has produced a string of beautiful recordings. Sangam is another exemplary outing from this venerable master, one that continues to expand musical boundaries. This live trio recording features legendary tabla master Zakir Hussain (from John McLaughlin’s Shakti) and percussionist Eric Harland. The result is an engaging mix of eastern & western influences and styles, where the percussionists provide a textured background for Lloyd’s saxophones, bass and alto flutes, and tarogato. Recommended. (GH) |
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| ROCK/POP |
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|
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| Title: |
|
Lullabies To Violaine: Singles And Extended Plays 1982-1996 Vol 1 |
| Label: |
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4AD
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|
Artist:
|
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Cocteau Twins |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310015163 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6310015168 |
| UPC: |
|
00652637251326 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECD4AD 72513 |
| Cat.#: |
|
DAD 2513 |
| Genre: |
|
Rock, Alternative Music |
| Release type: |
|
Boxed Set (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
When it comes to sheer, swooning, melodic beauty, no band of the 1980s could touch Cocteau Twins. And one of the most jealously sought-after collections of their work is a boxed set of ten CD EPs released in the early 1990s, and long out of print. Their label has finally decided to release all (well, almost all) of the material from that box on a single two-disc set in conjunction with another that covers their singles from 1993 to 1996 (BT Key BECD4AD 72514). Both volumes are available at budget price and should be considered essential to any pop collection. (RA) |
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|
|
| Title: |
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Collected |
| Label: |
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Virgin
|
|
Artist:
|
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Massive Attack (CD + DualDisc) |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310102528 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6310102524 |
| UPC: |
|
00094635570724 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BEDFVIRG55707 |
| Cat.#: |
|
55707 |
| Genre: |
|
Rock, Alternative Music |
| Release type: |
|
Best of (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
Trip-hop pioneers Massive Attack have never gotten the attention they deserve in the U.S., and this two-disc retrospective provides an excellent opporunity to hip your patrons to some of the darkest, strangest and most wonderful music to emerge from the U.K.'s underground scene in the last decade. Snap up this limited-edition version of the album, which includes a second DualDisc with videos on the DVD side and rarities on the CD side. (RA) |
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|
|
|
| Title: |
|
My Life In The Bush Of Ghosts |
| Label: |
|
Nonesuch
|
|
Artist:
|
|
David Byrne & Brian Eno |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310029177 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6310029177 |
| UPC: |
|
00075597989427 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDNONE79894 |
| Cat.#: |
|
79894-2 |
| Genre: |
|
Popular Music |
| Release type: |
|
Reissue |
| Comments: |
|
Here's another long-overdue reissue. When this album was originally released in 1981, it was something of a landmark release: Talking Heads bandleader David Byrne teamed up with ambient/avant-rocker Brian Eno (along with an impressive array of sidemen) to create a strange and funky amalgam of found sound, Afropop and electronica. This reissue adds seven outtakes and rarities to the original program along with a charmingly rudimentary music video and extensive liner notes; the result is a fresh look at an established classic. Very highly recommended to all libraries. (RA) |
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|
 |
| |
| $12.98 |
| |
|
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| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Step Ta Dis |
| Label: |
|
Earache Records (dist. Caroline)
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Dub War |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309681690 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309681699 |
| UPC: |
|
00745316216126 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDERCH2161 |
| Cat.#: |
|
MOSH 2161 |
| Genre: |
|
Rock |
| Release type: |
|
Reissue |
| Comments: |
|
Dub War emerged in the 1990s as torchbearers for the kind of punk-reggae fusion that Bad Brains had pioneered in the 1980s -- not the exact same mix of influences, but the same general idea, and the same level of excitement. (Members of the band would later go on to form the equally fine Skindred.) Step Ta Dis is a reissue of a remix collection from 1998, with several bonus tracks, and although the band's sound is seriously manipulated on these reconceptualizations, it still makes an excellent introduction to their work. Consider picking up the reissued Pain (BTKey BECDERCH1211) as well. (RA) |
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|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Singles & Sessions 1979-1981 |
| Label: |
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Kill Rock Stars/Touch N Go
|
|
Artist:
|
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Delta 5 |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309960474 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309960474 |
| UPC: |
|
00759656041522 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDKRS 60415 |
| Cat.#: |
|
KRS415CD |
| Genre: |
|
Rock, Alternative Music |
| Release type: |
|
Compilation |
| Comments: |
|
Emerging in 1979 from the same scene that produced Gang of Four and the Mekons, Delta 5 helped to pioneer the herky-jerky, political punk-funk sound that has recently come back into vogue with bands like Radio 4 and Erase Errata. This collection marks the first time that Delta 5's stuff has been made available in the US, and it will be warmly welcomed by any who remember their scene with fondness. (RA) |
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|
| Title: |
|
This Heat |
| Label: |
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Rer USA
|
|
Artist:
|
|
This Heat |
| ISBN: |
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9786310059662 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6310059661 |
| UPC: |
|
00752725800129 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDRERU1 |
| Cat.#: |
|
this is 1 |
| Genre: |
|
Rock, Alternative Music |
| Release type: |
|
Reissue |
| Comments: |
|
Rarely has music this abrasive and confrontational been simultaneously so much fun. A trio consisting of multi-instrumentalists Charles Bullen, Charles Hayward and Gareth Williams, This Heat anticipated future developments in experimental rock, avant-garde skronk and breakbeat electronica all at the same time. Originally issued in 1979, their debut album remains one of the most exciting and vibrant documents of the late-70s British avant-rock scene. (RA) |
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|
 |
| |
| $17.98 |
| |
|
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| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Acid Evolution 1988-2003 |
| Label: |
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K7 Studio
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Artist:
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Atom Heart |
| ISBN: |
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9786309795861 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309795864 |
| UPC: |
|
00826596027067 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDK7 LGS45 |
| Cat.#: |
|
log 045cd |
| Genre: |
|
Dance, DJ |
| Release type: |
|
Compilation |
| Comments: |
|
German-born electronic music producer Uwe Schmidt has issued records under many different pseudonyms -- Atom Heart, Flanger, and perhaps most notably his Latin alter ego Senor Coconut. This collection compiles 16 single tracks recorded in various styles and released under various names over a period of 15 years, and it acts as a fascinating sampler charting the evolution of electronic music without allowing the listener to get a clear fix on Herr Schmidt himself. Which I think may be the idea. (SA) |
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| Title: |
|
Vertically Challenged [EP] |
| Label: |
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Chocolate Industries (dist. Caroline)
|
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Artist:
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Lady Sovereign |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309737823 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309737821 |
| UPC: |
|
00677514006028 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDCHLI60 |
| Cat.#: |
|
CHLT060 |
| Genre: |
|
Hip Hop |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Lady Sovereign is the undisputed queen of grime, a British hip hop subgenre distinguished by squidgy beats and a distinct dancehall influence. Her delivery is rhythmically brilliant and thrillingly cheeky, and the remixes featured on this introductory EP add even more energy to what were already pretty compelling tracks to begin with. No pop collection should be without this disc. (RA) |
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|
 |
| |
| $15.98 |
| |
|
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| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Sacrifist |
| Label: |
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Subharmonic (dist. Allegro)
|
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Artist:
|
|
Praxis |
| ISBN: |
|
9786303021805 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6303021808 |
| UPC: |
|
00026617700225 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDAGROSBH7002 |
| Cat.#: |
|
SD 7002-2 |
| Genre: |
|
Rock/Avant-Garde |
| Release type: |
|
Reissue |
| Comments: |
|
Praxis is, like Material and Divination, basically Bill Laswell, along with a shifting array of sidemen. That array usually includes guitarist Buckethead and keyboardist Bernie Worrell, and on this album the project also featured John Zorn, Bootsy Collins and the members of Blind Idiot God, among others. As usual, the musical result is a bracing blend of heavy metal, funk, dub and avant-rock; also as usual, Laswell's richly melodic basslines are the glue that holds the chaos together. Originally issued in 1994, this classic Praxis album is available again now that the Subharmonic label has been picked up for distribution by Allegro. Recommended. (RA) |
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|
|
| |
| $25.00 |
| |
|
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| |
|
| Title: |
|
Dick's Picks 35 |
| Label: |
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Grateful Dead Records
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|
Artist:
|
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Grateful Dead |
| Performer: |
|
Grateful Dead |
| Cat.#: |
|
DECD289 |
| Genre: |
|
Rock |
| Release type: |
|
New (4-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
Some of the most interesting years in the Grateful Dead’s long history are the early 1970’s, when they forged an early version of what could be called roots rock. Moving out of the psychedelic 60s, the Dead were building a set list that blended country and rock elements with jazz-influenced improvisation, honing the live style that would solidify their place in rock history. Dick's Picks 35 documents several 1971 concerts featuring the original quintet, a brief time period not well documented by a band that seemed to record every gig. These tapes were originally lent to pianist Keith Godchaux so he could learn their set list before joining the band, and were then lost on his family’s houseboat for 35 years (earning the moniker “the houseboat tapes”). They were just rediscovered last year. (GH) |
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|
 |
| |
| $16.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Other People's Lives |
| Label: |
|
V2
|
|
Artist:
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|
Ray Davies |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310004648 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6310004646 |
| UPC: |
|
00638812728524 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDV2 27285 |
| Cat.#: |
|
63881-27285-2 |
| Genre: |
|
Rock, Alternative Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Ray Davies was the leader of the Kinks, and this is his first solo album. What is surprising is that it doesn’t sound much like the Kinks, and also that it sounds modern without aping any particular current style. A set of keen observations about "other people’s lives" rather than an exploration of the individual songwriter’s psyche, this album is bound to be on interest to anyone who has ever cared about the Kinks or about rock music as something more than an accessory to youth culture. (SA) |
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|
| WORLD/ETHNIC |
|
 |
| |
| $16.98 |
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|
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| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Lobi Traore Group |
| Label: |
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Astralwerks
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Lobi Traore |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309972491 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6309972499 |
| UPC: |
|
00724347442223 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDATWR074421 |
| Cat.#: |
|
HJRCD13 |
| Genre: |
|
World Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Though he has worked with Malian giant Ali Farka Toure and played with Blur's Damon Albarn on the album Mali Music, Lobi Traore is not widely known. This album, recorded outdoors with no overdubs, should change that, as it showcases a style that is more upbeat than the typical trance blues associated with Malian musicians of an earlier generation. Playing material that is rooted in tradition, but using a stinging, distorted guitar sound that feels very contemporary, Traore is one to look out for. (SA) |
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|
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| Title: |
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The Rasta Far I |
| Label: |
|
Collision (dist. Caroline)
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Dub Syndicate |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310174730 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6310174738 |
| UPC: |
|
00673795000922 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDCLSN3009 |
| Cat.#: |
|
CCT3009-2 |
| Genre: |
|
Reggae |
| Release type: |
|
Compilation (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
This is something of a quirky "best-of" covering the last ten years of Dub Syndicate's career, during which the loose collective (built around drummer Lincoln "Style" Scott) recorded on Scott's own Lion & Roots label instead of On-U Sound, its previous home base. The first disc is a continuous "megamix" of tracks from that period put together by celebrated DJ Rob Smith; the second disc consists of rarities and remixes. Expect demand from fans of modern reggae; this is all great stuff. (RA) |
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|
 |
| |
| $19.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Central Asian Series, Vol 1: Mountain Music of Kyrgyzstan [CD/DVD] |
| Label: |
|
Smithsonian Folkways
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Tengir-Too |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310048925 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6310048929 |
| UPC: |
|
00093074052020 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDRD 740520 |
| Cat.#: |
|
SFW CD 40520 |
| Genre: |
|
World Music |
| Release type: |
|
New (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
This is the first volume in a series of Folkways recordings dedicated to the music of Central Asia. This package includes both a full-length CD by the ensemble Tenigr-Too and a DVD that features a 24-minute film, map, interactive glossary and other features. The music itself is a fascinating mix of songs and instrumentals, some droney and strange, others surprisingly accessible to the Western ear. Most fascinating of all are the instruments, which are pictured and explained extensively in the accompanying materials. (RA) |
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|
 |
| |
| $17.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
AMA |
| Label: |
|
Real World
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Yungchen Lhamo |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310114224 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6310114220 |
| UPC: |
|
00094633330023 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDREA 33300 |
| Cat.#: |
|
333300 |
| Genre: |
|
World Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Yungchen Lhamo is a very gifted Tibetan singer currently living in exile in New York. Her latest album is hauntingly beautiful, if not flawless (the duet with Annie Lennox probably sounded like a good idea at the time, but doesn't come off well). Especially touching is her wordless song of grief in honor of the victims of the 9/11 attacks. Recommended to all ethno collections. (RA) |
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|
 |
| |
| $17.98 |
| |
|
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| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Mande Wazy |
| Label: |
|
Tinder (dist. Allegro)
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Wa-Zimba |
| ISBN: |
|
9786308382376 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
630838237X |
| UPC: |
|
00789428611325 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDAGROTIN861132 |
| Cat.#: |
|
861132 |
| Genre: |
|
World |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Wa-Zimba is a trio that combines the best of European production standards and technology with the best of Malagasy singing and instrumentation to create an infectiously groovy North-South fusion music centered on the vocals of Madagascar native Julio Rakotonanahary. The songs are hooky and danceable -- they may or may not be "authentic" in any meaningful way, but that just begs the question of how meaningful authenticity is anyway. Very nice stuff. (RA) |
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|
 |
| |
| $17.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Kinavana |
| Label: |
|
Sterns Music USA
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Kekele |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310042305 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6310042300 |
| UPC: |
|
00740042110120 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDSTEN1101 |
| Cat.#: |
|
STCD 1101 |
| Genre: |
|
World Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
The similarity between Cuban music and certain genres of African music has often been remarked upon, and Kekele, a supergroup of old-timers playing an archaic version of Congolese rumba, has always emphasized that connection. This time out they make it even more explicit by recording 12 compositions by the late Cuban singer-songwriter Guillermo Portabales. With a sound dominated by acoustic guitars and saxophone, Kinavana will appeal to lovers of both Caribbean and African styles. (SA) |
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|
|
| Title: |
|
City Breakers: 18 Frames Per Second |
| Label: |
|
Collision (dist. Caroline)
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Up, Bustle & Out |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310138978 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6310138979 |
| UPC: |
|
00673795000823 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDCLSN3008 |
| Cat.#: |
|
CCT 3008-2 |
| Genre: |
|
Reggae/Electronica |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
On their latest outing, Up Bustle & Out turn their attention to the sounds of vintage reggae and dub, creating something that falls somewhere between the militant rockers sound of 1970s Jamaica, early 1980s dancehall, early 1990s rap and 21st-century electronica. Guests include Nitin Sawhney, Black Roots, and MC Nicky Blaze (of Roni Size fame). All killer, no filler. (RA) |
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