|
January 2007
Look for "Rick's Pick" 
|
| CLASSICAL |
|
 |
| |
| $16.99 |
| |
|
|
| |
 |
|
| Title: |
|
Die Hochzeit auf der Alm, MH 107; Der Bassgeiger zu Worgl, MH 205 |
| Label: |
|
Profil/Hanssler (dist. Naxos)
|
|
Composer:
|
|
Johann Michael Haydn |
| Performer: |
|
Salzburger Hofmusik / Wolfgang Brunner |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310611051 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00881488606126 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDPFILPH06061 |
| Cat.#: |
|
PH06061 |
| Period: |
|
Classical |
| Genre: |
|
Classical |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
The titles of these two brief dramatic works -- The Wedding on the Alpine Pasture and The Bass Player of Worgl make it clear that they're not going to be anything very heavy. And in fact, they're both delightful confections -- Michael Haydn being the brilliant melodist that he was. Wolfgang Bruner leads the Salzburger Hofmusik ensemble in very attractive performances, though there are a few moments when the violins sound just a touch off-pitch. (The Alpenhorns sound consistently great.) (RA) |
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Concerti |
| Label: |
|
Accent (dist. Qualiton)
|
|
Composer:
|
|
Johann Gottlieb Graun; Carl Heinrich Graun |
| Performer: |
|
Il Gardellino |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310629605 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00675754947521 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDACCE24166 |
| Cat.#: |
|
ACC 24166 |
| Period: |
|
Baroque |
| Genre: |
|
Classical |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Four lovely concertos by the Graun brothers, two of the many notable composers that Frederick the Great gathered around himself at his Berlin court in the late 1700s. One of them is a very rare (for the time) concerto for viola da gamba; the others are more conventional. All are rarely recorded and are played with vigor and skill here by the Gardellino ensemble. This disc should be considered an essential purchase for any early music collection. (RA) |
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Sonaten fur Klavier & Violine, op. 23 & op. 30, no. 2 |
| Label: |
|
Harmonia Mundi
|
|
Composer:
|
|
Ludwig van Beethoven |
| Performer: |
|
Andreas Staier; Daniel Sepec |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310668871 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00794881802821 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDHMD HMC901919 |
| Cat.#: |
|
HMC 901919 |
| Period: |
|
Romantic |
| Genre: |
|
Classical |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
The point of this recording is less to present yet another account of these particular Beethoven sonatas, but rather to document the sound of a violin that was owned by Beethoven and was recently discovered and restored to its original condition and period structure. In the hands of Daniel Sepec the violin sings, though in a slightly more subdued tone than modern ears might expect. The sound is fascinating in a historical sense, but the musicality of Sepec and fortepianist Andreas Steier is more than great enough to offset any academic distractions. Very highly recommended. (RA) |
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Complete Overtures, Vol 1 |
| Label: |
|
Brilliant Classics (dist. Koch)
|
|
Composer:
|
|
Georg Philipp Telemann |
| Performer: |
|
Collegium Instrumentale Brugense / Patrick Peire |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310544533 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00842977030419 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDBLLT93041 |
| Cat.#: |
|
93041 |
| Period: |
|
Baroque |
| Genre: |
|
Classical Music |
| Release type: |
|
New (3-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
There are few musical pleasures that quite equal listening to a Telemann overture. Luckily, he wrote many of them -- notice that this is a three-disc set, and that it's titled "Volume 1." And there are few fiscal pleasures that quite equal buying a set this wonderful for five bucks per disc. Brilliant Classics does it again. I'm considering naming one of my children after this label. (RA) |
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
A Noble Entertainment: Music from Queen Anne's London |
| Label: |
|
Avie
|
|
Composer:
|
|
Various Composers |
| Performer: |
|
Parnassian Ensemble |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310632797 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00822252209426 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDAVER2094 |
| Cat.#: |
|
AV2094 |
| Period: |
|
Baroque |
| Genre: |
|
Classical |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
This is a thoroughly charming collection of trio sonatas by London-based composers both celebrated (William Corbett, G.H. Handel, Henry Purcell) and relatively obscure (William Williams, James Paisible, Gottfried Keller). Played by a top-notch ensemble consisting of two recorders, harpsichord and baroque cello, the music fairly bubbles with freshness and energy. Highly recommended to all classical collections. (RA) |
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
The Unknown Lover: Songs of Machaut & Solage |
| Label: |
|
Avie
|
|
Composer:
|
|
Solage; Guillaume de Machaut |
| Performer: |
|
Gothic Voices |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310751733 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00822252208924 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDAVER2089 |
| Cat.#: |
|
AV2089 |
| Period: |
|
Medieval |
| Genre: |
|
Classical |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Early music fans all know Machaut's name, but the man known only as Solage, who was also quite influential in 14th century France, has languished in obscurity. This is the first recording of all of Solage's known songs, along with a handful of similar works by Machaut. Gothic Voices sing beautifully, as always, and nicely showcase the astringent loveliness of these masterworks of late French ars nova and early ars subtilior. (RA) |
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Music for Oboe and Strings |
| Label: |
|
Cedille
|
|
Composer:
|
|
Benjamin Britten; Arthur Bliss |
| Performer: |
|
Vermeer String Quartet; Alex Klein |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310629391 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00735131909327 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDCED 093 |
| Cat.#: |
|
CDR 90000 093 |
| Period: |
|
20th Century |
| Genre: |
|
Classical |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
As the Vermeer Quartet prepares to disband following an almost four-decade career, the group chose to end things with a complete departure from its usual repertoire: a disc of 20th century British neoromantic works, including one for oboe and string quartet. Their playing is exceptionally fine, especially on the slightly edgy Phantasy Quartet of Britten. The Bliss oboe quintet is more traditionally lyrical, while Britten's quartet no. 3, op. 94 is downright bristly and owes a clear debt to Shostakovich. Highly recommended. (RA) |
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Strange Imaginary Animals |
| Label: |
|
Cedille
|
|
Composer:
|
|
Eighth Blackbird |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310701912 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00735131909426 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDCED 094 |
| Cat.#: |
|
CDR 90000 094 |
| Period: |
|
Modern |
| Genre: |
|
Classical |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Strange Imaginary Animals is a very apt title for this collection of new (many in world-premiere performances) compositions for chamber ensemble, all of them requiring the players to employ "extended" techniques -- strings and winds are treated like percussion instruments, pianos physically altered and played without using the keyboard, etc. Featured works include new music by the likes of Steven Mackey (surprise!), Jennifer Higdon and David M. Gordon. A must for all new-music collections. (RA) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $19.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
String Quartets: |
| Label: |
|
Hyperion (dist. Harmonia Mundi)
|
|
Composer:
|
|
Franz Schubert |
| Performer: |
|
Takacs String Quartet |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310669250 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00034571175850 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDHMD CDA67585 |
| Cat.#: |
|
CDA 67585 |
| Period: |
|
Romantic |
| Genre: |
|
Classical |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
These are warm and insightful performances of two of Schubert's most affecting chamber music works, both written during a period of intense depression. Though they remain some of the bleakest music of his career, these two string quartets still demonstrate Schubert's sublime melodic gift, and with this disc the Takacs Quartet makes a valuable addition to the recorded catalog of these important pieces. Recommended. (RA) |
|
|
| COUNTRY/FOLK |
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Rough Guide To Yodel |
| Label: |
|
Rough Guides/World Music Network
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Various Artists |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310535111 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00605633117424 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDWMN 331174 |
| Cat.#: |
|
RGNET1174CD |
| Genre: |
|
Country/World |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
If the accordion is the most intrinsically divisive musical instrument -- you either love it or you hate it -- then yodelling is probably the most intrinsically divisive singing technique. For academic purposes, though, there' no questioning the value of this disc, which provides a great overview of yodelling styles from around the world. American cowboy and folk traditions, Inuit wedding songs, European mountain yodels, Swiss avant-garde singing, and Pygmy vocal techniques are all presented here, among many others -- it's a fascinating (if not always entirely pleasurable) kaleidoscope of sounds. Libraries, ignore this one at your peril. (RA) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $17.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Courage & Patience & Grit: Great Big Sea In Concert [CD/DVD] |
| Label: |
|
Zoe
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Great Big Sea |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310702865 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00601143110627 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECD011 4311062 |
| Cat.#: |
|
01143-11062 |
| Genre: |
|
Folk |
| Release type: |
|
New (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
This CD/DVD set is something of a curiosity -- it's Great Big Sea's second live album in six years, and their second CD/DVD package. Diehard fans will be thrilled, though, because few bands shine in a live setting like Great Big Sea. The simple fact is that rocked-out Canadian Maritime folk music rules. Another live CD/DVD package? Why not? (RA) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $14.97 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
| Title: |
|
Beauty Attends: The Heartsongs of Opal Whiteley |
| Label: |
|
Collective Works
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Anne Hills |
| UPC: |
|
837101198905 |
| Cat.#: |
|
CW0502 |
| Genre: |
|
Folk |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
The gorgeous voice of Pennsylvania-based singer/songwriter Anne Hills is nicely paired here with lyrics drawn from the writings of turn-of-the-century diarist Opal Whiteley, who remains a source of fascination to musicians, naturalists and psychologists (she spent the last half of her life in a mental hospital). Her journals focus mainly on animals and her natural environment, and have been sympathetically set to music by Hills and her collaborators, resulting in fourteen lovely, humorous and moving songs. Strange and fascinating. (RA) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $17.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Seven Angels On A Bicycle |
| Label: |
|
Backporch
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Carrie Rodriguez |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310420165 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00094635600322 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDBKPR56003B |
| Cat.#: |
|
56003 |
| Genre: |
|
Country, Alternative Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Don't let the fancy embroidered cowboy boots or the occasional fiddle and banjo fool you: Carrie Rodriguez is not your typical country songbird. Nor is she your typical angsty Austin singer-songwriter. On her solo debut, her sound is impressionistic, careful, and often quite gorgeous. Imagine a less self-absorbed Lisa Germano, and you'll be on the right track... (RA) |
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Songbird |
| Label: |
|
Lost Highway
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Willie Nelson |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310456553 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00602498583531 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDUMG B000693902 |
| Cat.#: |
|
B0006939-02 |
| Genre: |
|
Alt Country, Country |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Nelson joins forces with ex-Whiskeytown front man Ryan Adams on this fine recording. Along with a few originals, Willie puts his own distinctive spin on covers of tunes by Fleetwood Mac, the Grateful Dead, Gram Parsons, and others. The arrangements range from acoustic numbers to Adams’ grinding sturm und twang guitar work, further abetted by some nice Hammond B-3 and harmonica. A personal favorite is Willie’s take of Leonard Cohen’s haunting “Hallelujah.” Willie’s never been afraid to take chances, and this collaboration with Adams works very well. Recommended. (GH) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $18.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Love, Pain & The Whole Crazy Thing |
| Label: |
|
Capitol
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Keith Urban |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310605388 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00094637708705 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDCAP 770870 |
| Cat.#: |
|
7708 |
| Genre: |
|
Country & Western |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Grumble, if you wish, that he sounds more rock than country -- and giggle, if you wish, at his movie-star marriage. I say you're missing the point both ways. This is exceptionally fine pop songwriting, whether it belongs in the "country" subgenre or not, and Urban's tough, unassuming voice is the perfect vehicle for it. This is the kind of great music that foolish hipsters feel they have to pretend they don't like. Too bad for them. (RA) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $16.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Les Amis Creole |
| Label: |
|
Arhoolie (dist. Koch)
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Les Amis Creole |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310533759 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00096297052921 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDARHO529 |
| Cat.#: |
|
529 |
| Genre: |
|
Cajun |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
If you've ever thought that there really was a reliable distinction between white and black styles of Cajun music, this disc might make you think again -- Les Amis Creole (an African-American trio) play strictly trad Cajun music without any hint of zydeco's R&B influences. Fiddle and accordion, stomping feet, waltzes and two-steps -- this is wonderful, exuberant music of the type that exists only in Southern Louisiana. (RA) |
|
|
| JAZZ |
|
 |
| |
| $15.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Invite The Spirit 2006 |
| Label: |
|
Tzadik (dist. Koch)
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Henry Kaiser; Sang Won Park; Charles K. Noyes |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310621296 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00702397761723 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDTZDK7617 |
| Cat.#: |
|
TZ 7617 |
| Genre: |
|
Avant-garde |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
I know, I know, it's not really jazz, but it's not really anything -- just brilliant and beautiful transcontinental improvisation by three masters of their instruments. This is actually a reconvening of the guitar-kayagum-drums trio that recorded the original Invite the Spirit back in the early 1980s. That turned out to be one of the most gorgeous albums in the Kaiser catalog, and this one almost succeeds at capturing the same magic. The mistake, in my estimation, was bringing in the other guest musicians -- who are impressive, but tend to clutter up the sound. Still, this is wonderful stuff. (RA) |
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Sonny, Please |
| Label: |
|
Doxy/Universal
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Sonny Rollins |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310844220 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
6310844229 |
| UPC: |
|
00602517086203 |
| Cat.#: |
|
UMG B000825702 |
| Genre: |
|
Jazz |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
This is Sonny Rollins' first studio album in five years, and if the 76-year-old saxophone colossus is weakening or slowing down any, there's no evidence of it here. His rich and powerful tone wields the same visceral impact it always has, and he still writes with the wit and intelligence that set him apart from the pack 50(!) years ago. And he's still equally at home in straight-ahead postbop mode ("Remembering Tommy"), Caribbean-inspired grooves ("Park Palace Parade") and extended abstraction ("Sonny, Please"). A must for all jazz collections. (RA) |
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Live at Minas |
| Label: |
|
DRG Brazil
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Antonio Carlos Jobim |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310371764 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00021471161229 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDDRG 31612 |
| Cat.#: |
|
31612 |
| Genre: |
|
Jazz |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Recorded in 1981 at the Palacio das Artes in Minos Gerais, this gently moving disc captures a veyr rare live solo performance by the legendary Antonio Carolos Jobim. He accompanies himself on piano and performs quiet and tender renditions of his own compositions and those of his friends and influences. If you don't speak Portuguese you may be frustrated not to understand the between-song patter, but the music itself transcends linguistic barriers. Highly recommended to all collections. (RA) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $18.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
The Brandenburgs |
| Label: |
|
Telarc Jazz
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Jacques Loussier Trio |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310614441 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00089408364426 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDTELA83644 |
| Cat.#: |
|
CD-83644 |
| Genre: |
|
Jazz |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Whenever a new Loussier album comes out, taking yet another chunk of the baroque canon and turning it into decorous piano-trio jazz, I find myself hating myself for enjoying it so much. Then I hate myself for being such a snob that I think I should hate myself for enjoying it. Then I feel better about myself for recognizing my own snobbishness. I don't recommend that kind of circuitous navel-gazing as the optimal approach to this music -- all you normal people out there should be able to just relax and enjoy. (RA) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $16.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Velvet Gentlemen |
| Label: |
|
OmniTone (dist. Allegro)
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Dan Willis |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310694856 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00686281521627 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDAGROOTI15216 |
| Cat.#: |
|
15216 |
| Genre: |
|
Jazz |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Nice, impressionistic modern jazz from a saxophone master. Willis treads gracefully the line separating experimental from straight-ahead jazz, and manages (amazingly) never to sacrifice either intellect or approachability in the pursuit of either. (RA) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $19.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
At UCLA 1965 |
| Label: |
|
Sunnyside Records
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Charles Mingus |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310535548 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00016728304122 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDSSCI283041 |
| Cat.#: |
|
SSC 3041 |
| Genre: |
|
Jazz |
| Release type: |
|
New/Reissue (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
Mingus originally planned on playing this music at the 1965 Monterey Jazz Festival, but was relegated a scant half-hour at Monterey. Consequently, he trotted this material out a week later at UCLA and recorded it, circulating limited copies as a self-released 2 LP set. This is the first CD release, and it captures the wildly eccentric personality of Mingus as he rants from the stage and leads a quintet that consists of 6 horns, drums, and the maestro on bass and piano. The music’s uneven, but when it works, it works very, very well. (GH) |
|
|
| ROCK/POP |
|
 |
| |
| $12.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
We Are Glitter |
| Label: |
|
Mute (dist. Caroline)
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Goldfrapp |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310542485 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00724596933527 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDMRCD9335 |
| Cat.#: |
|
9335-2 |
| Genre: |
|
Popular Music |
| Release type: |
|
Compilation |
| Comments: |
|
We Are Glitter is a compilation of remixes based on Goldfrapp's previous releases, and it's frankly something of a disappointment. If the mixes were more avant-garde they'd be interesting, and if they were more danceable they'd be fun, but as it is most of them seem to want to split the difference between the two. Fans and completists will want this one, but those with a more casual interest may be disappointed. (RA) |
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Voyage |
| Label: |
|
Atlantic/Q Records
|
|
Artist:
|
|
David Crosby |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310633763 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00081227762827 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDATL 77628 |
| Cat.#: |
|
R2 77628 |
| Genre: |
|
Rock, Folk/Rock |
| Release type: |
|
Boxed Set (3-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
David Crosby’s career rose meteorically in the late 1960’s when he helped define American folk/rock as a member of the Byrds and Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young. Following his brilliant 1971 solo album, If I Could Only Remember My Name, Crosby’s drug addiction eroded the quality of his work, but a few gems still emerged. This new box set is a fine career retrospective, with the first disc documenting the early years, and the second culling the best material from the decades since. The third disc is the real treat, featuring 16 previously unreleased demos and live cuts. A heavily annotated booklet provides historical information, and includes Crosby’s comments about each song. At his best, David Crosby was a visionary genius, and that’s amply evident on these three fine discs. (GH) |
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
DNA on DNA |
| Label: |
|
No More Records (dist. Forced Exposure)
|
|
Artist:
|
|
DNA |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310274522 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00618801001227 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDNMRC12 |
| Cat.#: |
|
12 |
| Genre: |
|
Rock, Alternative Music |
| Release type: |
|
Reissue |
| Comments: |
|
This one slipped by me when it was initially released a couple of years ago, and I feel like it's something CDHL's readers need to know about. DNA was one of the leading lights of New York's downtown noise-rock scene in the late 1970s and early 1980s, and this (long overdue) CD reissues both the group's spectacular EP A Taste of DNA along with the rest of its mostly less-spectacular output, including live performances and compilation tracks. An essential piece of American musical history. (RA) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $29.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Fad Gadget by Frank Tovey [CD/DVD] |
| Label: |
|
Mute (dist. Caroline)
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Fad Gadget |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310542508 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00724596933626 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BEDDMRCD9336 |
| Cat.#: |
|
9336-2 |
| Genre: |
|
Rock |
| Release type: |
|
Boxed Set (4-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
Frank Tovey, who recorded under the name Fad Gadget, was one of the most significant influences on the development of synth pop in the 1980s. This set includes two audio CDs of singles, alternates and demos, along with two DVDs of live footage. Not a best-of, this collection is rather an odds-and-sods compilation of rarities that will be of particular interest to libraries with deep pop music collections. (RA) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $19.95 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
LoudQUIETloud: A Film about the Pixies [DVD] |
| Label: |
|
MVD
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Pixies |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310425948 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00022891452997 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BEDDVMI DR4529 |
| Cat.#: |
|
DR-4529 |
| Genre: |
|
Music Video - Pop/Rock |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
A surprisingly moving and musically ferocious look at the Pixies 2004 reunion tour. This DVD offers an intimate look at the personalities involved, with all of their quirks and insecurities, and offers excellent footage of some revelatory music-making as well. Hear "Gouge Away" again for the very first time! (RA) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $18.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Long Journey Home |
| Label: |
|
Zoe
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Cowboy Junkies |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310604770 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00601143106729 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECD011 4310672 |
| Cat.#: |
|
01143-1067-2 |
| Genre: |
|
Rock, Alternative Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
The Junkies’ latest is a live CD/DVD combo that simultaneously serves as a career retrospective and clear statement about how this band evolves and changes. The CD opens with a 14 minute, highly electric version of Robert Johnson’s “32-20 Blues,” an extended jam driven by Michael Timmons’ guitar and Margo Timmons’ gut-wrenching vocals. The rest of the CD (and the expanded DVD) is filled with classic Junkies tunes, often slightly recast and reinvigorated. It’s been two decades since the Junkies first came on the scene, and they keep surprising and delighting with their creativity and resolute refusal to answer to any muse other than their own. (GH) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $13.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
The Best Worst-Case Scenario |
| Label: |
|
Tooth & Nail
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Fair |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310233871 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00724358080629 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDTNN 80806 |
| Cat.#: |
|
TND80806 |
| Genre: |
|
Rock, Alternative Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
There's nothing unique or ground-breaking about this band, but there's also no denying the appeal of its middle-of-the-road indie rock -- tons of hooks, sweet harmonies, gritty guitars, and even a pedal steel or two. What's not to like? (RA) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $12.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Small Sins |
| Label: |
|
Astralwerks
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Small Sins |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310138589 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00094635984422 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDATWR59844 |
| Cat.#: |
|
ASW 59844 |
| Genre: |
|
Rock, Alternative Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Small Sins is the nom de rock of Thomas D'Arcy, whose solo debut is a cute -- maybe sometimes just a little bit too cute -- collection of homemade pop, consisting of layers of old analog keyboards, a drum machine and D'Arcy's own beathy vocals. Most of the songs work quite well, and this is a promising debut overall. A couple of band members might help him avoid the occasional minor preciousness problem. (RA) |
|
|
| WORLD/ETHNIC |
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Introducing Bela Lakatos & The Gypsy Youth Project |
| Label: |
|
Introducing (dist. Ryko)
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Bela Lakatos |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310535005 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00605633510621 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDRD 335106 |
| Cat.#: |
|
INTRO106CD |
| Genre: |
|
World Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Bela Lakatos & the Gypsy Youth Project are dedicated to collecting and performing the gypsy folk music of rural Hungary, specifically of the Szabolcs-Szatmar-Bereg region. This is primarily vocal music, accompanied by guitar, mandolin and a variety of homemade percussion instruments -- lyrical themes include weddings, poverty, loneliness, justice (or the lack thereof) and lucky footwear. Half the songs will make you feel like crying, and the others will make you feel like grabbing your staff and dancing around in a circle. Wonderful! (RA) |
|
|
|
| |
| $16.00 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
| Title: |
|
Soul of the Mahala |
| Label: |
|
Voice of Roma
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Rumen Shopov; Angel Shopov |
| UPC: |
|
678277123021 |
| Cat.#: |
|
VOR CD2006 |
| Genre: |
|
World |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
For another take on the Gypsy/Romani sound, check out this release from the Shopov brothers, whose music is a bit more urban than that of Bela Lakatos and crew, and who hail from Southwestern Bulgaria. Here the instrumental parts are at least as important as the vocals and the arrangements are more complex. No less danceable, though. Very nice. (Voice of Roma's online store doesn't seem to work, so order by calling (707) 823-7941.) (RA) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $14.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Think Global: West Africa Unwired |
| Label: |
|
World Music Network
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Various Artists |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310535135 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00605633116922 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDWMN 331169 |
| Cat.#: |
|
RGNET1169CD |
| Genre: |
|
World Music |
| Release type: |
|
Compilation |
| Comments: |
|
The purpose of this disc is apparently to "end poverty, defend human rights and protect the environment." At least, that's what it says on the back cover; on the front it has the Amnesty International logo. Oh yes, and there's some music as well -- a very nice collection of modern and traditional tracks from such eminent West African artists as Mory Kante, Daby Balde and Boubacar Traore. Most of this music is available on other releases, but come on -- are their packages made from 100% recycled materials? (RA) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $14.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Rough Guide to the Music of Iran |
| Label: |
|
Rough Guides/World Music Network
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Various Artists |
| ISBN: |
|
9781843537793 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00605633116526 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDWMN 331165 |
| Cat.#: |
|
RGNET1165CD |
| Genre: |
|
World Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Like all of the Rough Guides compilations, this one offers a good overview of musical styles from Iran -- everything from rap to folk to mystical trance music, along with nicely detailed liner notes. Realistically, if your library has an ethno collection you're probably buying everything in this series already. But if not, you could create a pretty good ethno collection by buying them all at once. (RA) |
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Bole 2 Harlem - Vol. 1 |
| Label: |
|
Sounds of the Mushroom (dist. Ryko)
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Bole 2 Harlem |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310691169 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00878068000504 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDRD 680005 |
| Cat.#: |
|
|
| Genre: |
|
World/Rock |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
The title of this disc tells you everything you need to know: Bole International Airport is how you get to and from Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, and Harlem is the capital of African America. Bole 2 Harlem is a truly African/American collaboration between Ethiopian vocalist Maki Siraj and American producer/percussionist David Schommer, who have created a brilliant fusion of modern American electro-funk and traditional North African rhythms and tonalities. This is the party album of the year, hands down. (RA) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $16.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Reckless Roots Rockers |
| Label: |
|
Wackie's Records (dist. Forced Exposure)
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Reckless Breed |
| ISBN: |
|
9786310665535 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00827670267416 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDWCKS37 |
| Cat.#: |
|
037 |
| Genre: |
|
Reggae |
| Release type: |
|
Reissue |
| Comments: |
|
Libraries with a collecting interest in reggae music will be happy to know that the back catalog of the Wackies label (America's first reggae imprint, set up in the late 1970s in New York by Lloyd "Bullwackies" Barnes) is finally getting the CD reissue treatment it deserves. The latest installment is this fine collection of dub tracks dating from Barnes' days at King Tubby's studio; credited to the Reckless Breed and a few other artists, it mainly features the playing of the legendary Soul Syndicate band. For reggae collections primarily. (RA) |
|
© CD HotList 2004 |
