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January 2008
Look for "Rick's Pick" 
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| CLASSICAL |
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| $39.98 |
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| Title: |
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Sweetly I Rejoice |
| Label: |
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Smekkleysa
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Composer:
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Various Composers |
| Performer: |
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Various Performers |
| ISBN: |
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9786311692653 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00569035110387 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDICELSMK31 |
| Cat.#: |
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SMK 31 |
| Period: |
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Modern |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
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Here's a curious and really rather wonderful item: a collection of traditional songs and hymns from Iceland, all accompanied by several modern adaptations written by a variety of contemporary Icelandic composer. The original songs are all quietly lovely, and the new adaptations range in style from a sort of neo-folk sound to complex polyphony. Maybe not an essential purchase for every library, but definitely recommended to all collections supporting modern vocal music and ethnomusicology studies. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Music for the Lion-Hearted King |
| Label: |
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Helios (dist. Harmonia Mundi)
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Composer:
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Gothic Voices |
| ISBN: |
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9786311710593 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00034571152929 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDHPONCDH55292 |
| Cat.#: |
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CDH55292 |
| Period: |
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Medieval |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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Reissue |
| Comments: |
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Originally issued in 1989, this long-overdue reissue brings back to the catalog one of the finest recordings of medieval vocal music ever released. Gothic Voices perform a variety of conductus, trouveres and chansons to commemorate the coronation of King Richard I in 1189. There's no way to know whether any of these songs were sung on that occasion, but they are typical of the period's court music and are sung with exceptional freshness and beauty by this four-voice group. Highly recommended to any library that doesn't own the original release. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Music for Violin and Piano |
| Label: |
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Albany Records
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Composer:
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William Bolcom |
| Performer: |
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Philip Ficsor, violin ; Constantine Finehouse, piano |
| ISBN: |
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9786311504970 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00034061095927 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDAR TROY959 |
| Cat.#: |
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959 |
| Period: |
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20th Century |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
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This is a complete recording of Bolcom's violin and piano music, including all four sonatas as well as the Duo Fantasy and Graceful Ghost. Also included are premiere recordings of the Sonatina, Pastorale, Fancy Tales, and the Suite for Solo Violin. Ficsor and Finehouse play through this technically demanding repertoire with ease and the musicianship throughout exudes an enthusiasm and genuine love for this music. Bolcom's juxtaposition of Americanisms (blues, ragtime, etc.) with the avant-garde makes this entire collection an absolute joy to listen to repeatedly. Well worth the price and highly recommended for all collections. (mjb) |
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| Title: |
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String Quartet op. 51, no. 2; Piano Quintet op. 34 |
| Label: |
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Hyperion (dist. Harmonia Mundi)
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Composer:
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Johannes Brahms |
| Performer: |
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Takacs Quartet |
| ISBN: |
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9786311642863 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00034571175515 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDHMD CDA67551 |
| Cat.#: |
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CDA67551 |
| Period: |
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Romantic |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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This is a warm and brilliant account of two of Brahms' most attractive chamber works. The Takacs Quartet is one of the most gifted chamber ensembles currently recording, and the lustrous beauty of their tone is a perfect match for the lush romanticism of these two pieces. Very highly recommended to all classical collections. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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La Quinta Essentia: Trois messes essentielles de la Renaissance |
| Label: |
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Harmonia Mundi
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Composer:
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Orlande de Lassus; Thomas Ashewell; Giovanni Perluigi da Palestrina |
| Performer: |
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Huelgas Ensemble / Paul Van Nevel |
| ISBN: |
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9786311710555 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00794881803026 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDHMD HMC901922 |
| Cat.#: |
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HMC 901922 |
| Period: |
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Renaissance |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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If a library could afford only one single-disc survey of Renaissance polyphony, this might be the best choice currently available. From the little-known Thomas Ashewell's late-Gothic sonorities to the earthy complexity of Lassus to the hushed wonder and creamy richness of Palestrina's harmonic cascades, this disc offers a nearly indisputable musical argument in support of its ambitious title. And no choir currently working does a better job than the Huelgas Ensemble at presenting this repertoire in all of its sweetly blossoming splendor. Brilliant. (RA) |
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| $5.98 |
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| Title: |
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Chamber Music from The Court of St. Petersburg |
| Label: |
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Arte Nova (dist. Allegro)
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Composer:
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Various Composers |
| Performer: |
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Russian Baroque Ensemble |
| ISBN: |
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9786311678091 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00723721326951 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDATNV516260 |
| Cat.#: |
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ANO 16260 |
| Period: |
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Classical |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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Reissue (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
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The cover advertises that these discs include "World Premiere Recordings," and that's true -- but note that this set is a reissue of a 1996 release. That's no criticism, certainly not with a $3-per-disc list price, and the music is very fine. If you or your patrons have never heard of Joseph Starzar or Luigi Madonis or Maxim Sozontovich Berezovsky, then here is a perfect opportunity to meet them and hear their decorous (and sometimes borderline romantic) chamber music beautifully performed on period instruments. (RA) |
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| $16.98 |
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| Title: |
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An Italian Sojourn |
| Label: |
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Cedille Records (dist. Allegro)
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Composer:
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Trio Settecento |
| ISBN: |
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9786311532706 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00735131909921 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDCED 99 |
| Cat.#: |
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CDR 90000 099 |
| Period: |
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Baroque |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Baroque Italian trio sonatas are plentiful in number and variable in quality, so recording an entire album of them requires careful planning, flawless execution, and palpable musical sensitivity. Fortunately, Trio Settecento admirably commands all of these qualities here, flavoring the subtle nuances between composers with remarkable flair and fluidity. Rachel Barton Pine’s violin blends effortlessly with the basso continuo, where John Mark Rozendaal’s cello has a distinct voice in conversation with David Schrader’s elegant harpsichord realization. (AJ) |
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| $16.99 |
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| Title: |
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Concertos for Flute |
| Label: |
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Atma (dist. Naxos)
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Composer:
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| Performer: |
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Les Boreades; Francis Colpron |
| ISBN: |
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9786311655450 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00722056252126 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDAMAA2521 |
| Cat.#: |
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ACD2 2521 |
| Period: |
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Baroque |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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This particular Scarlatti was known primarily for his vocal works -- especially his operas -- but as this delightful disc shows, he was also a very accomplished composer of sonatas and chamber concertos. This selection of sonatas, concertos and sinfonias is beautifully played by the Montreal-based ensemble Les Boreades, led by Francis Colpron (who also plays the solo parts on the recorder). Recommended to all baroque and early-music collections. (RA) |
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| $8.99 |
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| Title: |
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String Quartets No. 1 & 3: Complete Vol. 1 |
| Label: |
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Naxos
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Composer:
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Sergey Taneyev |
| Performer: |
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Carpe Diem String Quartet |
| ISBN: |
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9786311608227 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00747313043774 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDNAXO8570437 |
| Cat.#: |
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8.570437 |
| Period: |
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Romantic |
| Genre: |
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Classical Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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In this first volume, the Carpe Diem String Quartet provides convincing performances of two (out of nine) string quartets by the lesser known Russian composer, Sergey Taneyev (1856-1915). Taneyev was a student of Nikolay Rubinstein and Tchaikovsky, and taught both Rachmaninov and Scriabin. He is a link between these two generations and his string quartets are an important part of his output. This recording supports the growing study of this composer. Carpe Diem has recently finished recording the second volume of this series, which will be released some time next year. (PS) |
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| $19.98 |
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| Title: |
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Six Quatuors Pour Flute, Violon, Alto et Basse, Op. 4 (1772) |
| Label: |
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Accent (dist. Qualiton)
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Composer:
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Ernst Eichner |
| Performer: |
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Il Gardellino |
| ISBN: |
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9786311608906 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00675754002633 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDACCE24183 |
| Cat.#: |
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ACC 24183 |
| Period: |
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Classical |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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If you love Mozart's flute quartets and wish he had written more for the flute (an instrument he reputedly did not particularly like), then console yourself with this lovely collection of identically-configured pieces by Mozart's contemporary, the Mannheim School composer Ernst Eichner. They display something a bit less than Mozart's effortless melodic genius, but then, the same can be said of the work of almost every other composer of the period -- and these pieces are thoroughly delightful and are beautifully played by the chamber ensemble Il Gardellino. The recorded sound is perhaps a little bit sharp and vinegary. Highly recommended. (RA) |
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| COUNTRY/FOLK |
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| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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Good Thing Going |
| Label: |
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Rounder
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Artist:
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Rhonda Vincent |
| ISBN: |
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9786311722503 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00011661059221 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECD116 6105922 |
| Cat.#: |
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610592 |
| Genre: |
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Bluegrass |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Rhonda Vincent's brand of bluegrass is a canny blend of traditional barn-burning raveups (notice her blazing version of Jimmy Martin's "Hit Parade of Love"), swinging midtempo numbers, and love songs that sound suspiciously like acoustic pop country. Thus she brings new fans to the table without alienating most of the tradition-minded market, and she sings like an angel with a hidden agenda. Very nice. (RA) |
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| $16.98 |
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| Title: |
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Road That Never Ends: The Live Album |
| Label: |
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Rural Rhythm
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Artist:
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Mountain Heart |
| ISBN: |
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9786311604762 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00732351103320 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDRHY 511033 |
| Cat.#: |
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1033 |
| Genre: |
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Bluegrass |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Mountain Heart really needs to be heard in a live setting to be understood -- every bluegrass band plays fast, but very few bluegrass bands have brought this kind of energy to material that is this steeped in tradition (if not always strictly traditional). I remain unconvinced that blues piano makes a great addition to a bluegrass concert, but hoo boy, that kid can play. (RA) |
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| $16.98 |
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| Title: |
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All is Well |
| Label: |
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Bedroom Community (dist. Forced Exposure)
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Artist:
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Samamidon |
| ISBN: |
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9786311563298 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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05060096472926 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDBMCT004 |
| Cat.#: |
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HVALUR4 |
| Genre: |
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Alt-Folk |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Sam Amidon (a.k.a. Samamidon) has a reputation for insightful experimentation, but to me his versions of these traditional tunes ("O Death," "Prodigal Son," "Wild Bill Jones," etc.) just sound formulaic and flat. If you choose to record "O Death", it's either because you've got guts or because you don't know what you're getting into. Based on his affectless delivery of that song and just about every other one on this program, I'm willing to bet money on the latter. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Early Southern Guitar Sounds |
| Label: |
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Smithsonian Folkways
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Artist:
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Mike Seeger |
| ISBN: |
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9786311499962 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00093074015728 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDFOLK740157 |
| Cat.#: |
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SFW CD 40157 |
| Genre: |
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Folk Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Multi-instrumentalist and ethnomusicologist Seeger sticks to guitar for this release, but in order to show the variety of early 20th century guitar music of the South, he uses 25 different instruments on 28 songs. Big and little, cheap and expensive, he tries for as many sounds as he can, with parlor songs, banjo tunes, rags, and blues, with and without lyrics, in a bewildering array of tunings and picking styles. The booklet explains it all so you can study up all you like, or just kick back and enjoy this master playing some sweet music. (JW) |
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| $16.99 |
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| Title: |
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Flippin' out |
| Label: |
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FreeHam Records
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Artist:
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Charmaine Clamor |
| UPC: |
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634479540059 |
| Cat.#: |
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FH0705 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Charmaine Clamor's new album is alot of fun. The musicians are excellent, a very competent and well-produced recording. The most interesting part of the album is the Filipino Suite, five tracks partially played on traditional Filipino instruments and sung in the native Bisaya language. Other highlights are a cover of Nina Simone's "Sugar in My Bowl" and U2's "With or Without You." Recommended. (mjb) |
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| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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Pretty Runs Out |
| Label: |
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Rounder
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Artist:
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Amanda Shaw |
| ISBN: |
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9786311722428 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00011661325722 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECD116 6132572 |
| Cat.#: |
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613257 |
| Genre: |
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Folk/Pop |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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This New Orleans youngster has absorbed her town's healthy disregard for musical boundaries, and on her debut veers happily between New Wave-y sounding rock, Cajun reels, Texas roots rock, and a bunch of stuff that doesn't sound much like anything except Amanda Shaw. Very nice. (RA) |
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| JAZZ |
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| $15.00 |
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| Title: |
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Waltzing the Splendour |
| Label: |
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Zoning
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Artist:
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Claire Ritter |
| Performer: |
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Claire Ritter |
| UPC: |
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700261219400 |
| Cat.#: |
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| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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This fine example of modern chamber jazz by pianist/composer Ritter features a set of engaging compositions inspired, in part, by the work of Georgia O'Keefe. There’s a gentle, Monkish rhythm in her work that drives the interplay between the piano, violin, cello, and Jon Metzger’s beautiful vibraphone playing. While the feel evokes the classic collaborations between Chick Corea and Gary Burton, this is wonderfully original work that’s consistently thoughtful and beautiful. Recommended. (GH) |
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| Title: |
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My Foolish Heart |
| Label: |
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ECM
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Artist:
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Keith Jarrett, Gary Peacock, Jack DeJohnette |
| ISBN: |
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9786311574317 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00602517373266 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDUMG B000988702 |
| Cat.#: |
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2021/22 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
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Of all of Keith Jarrett Standards trio discs (an impressive body of work that dates back to 1983) this set from the 2001 Montreux Jazz Festival is the most playful and energetic. Rollicking ragtime versions of Fats Waller’s “Honeysuckle Rose” and Hart/Rodgers’ “You Took Advantage Of Me” set the tone. Jarrett’s left hand is a rhythmic powerhouse, while drummer Jack DeJohnette and bassist Gary Peacock are dazzling. The trio can hardly control themselves with glee – you can hear them laughing and encouraging each other as they romp through the tunes. This is marvelous, delightful music from one of the most seasoned and accomplished trios in jazz. Very highly recommended! (GH) |
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| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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Don't Blame Me |
| Label: |
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Pirouet (dist. Qualiton)
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Artist:
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Claus Raible |
| ISBN: |
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9786311616475 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00675754003104 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDPRUT3025 |
| Cat.#: |
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3025 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Raible is a wonderfully inventive and technically outstanding pianist. Supported by Giorgos Antoniou on bass and Ben Dixon on drums, this album is piano jazz at its best. Although a 45 minute album is short for this day and age, it is completely enjoyable. Recommended. (mjb) |
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| $16.98 |
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| Title: |
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C'est Magnifique |
| Label: |
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Arbors
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Artist:
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Ruby Braff and the Flying Pizzarellis |
| ISBN: |
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9786311618219 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00780941127027 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDARBR19270 |
| Cat.#: |
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ARCD 19270 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Cornettist Ruby's Braff's death was both untimely and cruelly ironic (he died of emphysema, a terrible way for a horn player to go). But even in the final months of his life he was playing his favorite music (traditional swing) in his favorite configuration (small combo) with verve, wit and energy. Here he's joined by members of the celebrated Pizzarelli family for a wonderful set of standards -- it was his final studio session, and can be highly recommended to any jazz collection. (RA) |
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| $16.98 |
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| Title: |
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Tribute |
| Label: |
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Sea Breeze Records (dist. Allegro)
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Artist:
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Blue Wisp Big Band |
| ISBN: |
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9786311533420 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00017231214526 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDSEBZ2145 |
| Cat.#: |
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SBJ-2145 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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This Cincinnati-based hard bop orchestra, named after the club where they’ve performed for a quarter century, deserves wider attention. Recorded in concert in the summer of 2006, the title refers both to the club’s owner, and to composers who have influenced this well-oiled crew of sixteen. Works by Horace Silver, Freddie Hubbard, and others are provided fine arrangements, with solos principally from Al Nori, trumpet, Steve Schmidt, piano, Herb Aronoff, tenor sax, and John Von Ohlen, drums. The sound is excellent, and the musicianship impeccable. This is for any library with contemporary big band fans lurking. (JW) |
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| $16.98 |
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| Title: |
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This Meets That |
| Label: |
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Emarcy
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Artist:
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John Scofield |
| ISBN: |
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9786311480762 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00602517462403 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDUMG B000977402 |
| Cat.#: |
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B0009774-02 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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This is John Scofield’s first project with Emarcy Records. Together with his “A-Team” (Steve Swallow, bass; Bill Stewart, drums) a four-part horn section (Roger Rosenberg, baritone sax/bass clarinet; Jim Pugh, trombone; Lawrence Feldman, tenor sax/flutes; John Swana, trumpet/flugelhorn), and a guest appearance by Bill Frisell, This Meets That presents an interesting variety of music that is often funky and always swings. In addition to Scofield’s compositions are versions of “Satisfaction” by the Rolling Stones, “The House of the Rising Sun”, and Charlie Rich’s country hit “Behind Closed Doors.”(PS) |
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| ROCK/POP |
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| $24.98 |
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| Title: |
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Rufus Does Judy At Carnegie Hall |
| Label: |
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Geffen
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Artist:
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Rufus Wainwright |
| ISBN: |
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9786311688052 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00602517516724 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDUMG B001031802 |
| Cat.#: |
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001031802 |
| Genre: |
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Popular Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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The operatic/Broadway qualities of Rufus Wainwright’s singing have long been present in his recordings, so this album makes perfect sense. Covering Judy Garland’s legendary 1961 concert alone would be an epic undertaking, but Wainwright also reproduces the experience, reenacting Garland’s speeches and false starts for different tempi. Wainwright as usual sounds superb, but the real treat is how well he fits with the impressive orchestra, all the while showing his love for Garland and her legacy. (AJ) |
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| $13.98 |
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| Title: |
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In Rainbows |
| Label: |
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ATO (dist. Red)
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Artist:
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Radiohead |
| ISBN: |
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9786311699379 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00880882162221 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDATRE88088216222 |
| Cat.#: |
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21622 |
| Genre: |
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Popular Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Aside from headlines about selling digital downloads for a customer-determined price, Radiohead has continued to develop their sound into new, uncharted territories. The band seems evermore intent on the craft of innovative song construction, using sonic backdrops that are characteristically Radiohead. Guitars and electronic wizardry are equally balanced throughout the album, and Thom Yorke’s plaintive vocal style has been enveloped into the band’s overall ensemble, enticing the listener to delve into the many acoustic layers. (AJ) |
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| $11.98 |
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| Title: |
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Hideout |
| Label: |
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Beggars Banquet
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Artist:
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Film School |
| ISBN: |
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9786311455579 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00607618025625 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDBEGG80256 |
| Cat.#: |
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80256 |
| Genre: |
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Rock, Alternative Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Their second, self-titled release gave hope to post-punk revivalists with its blend of dream pop, shoegaze, and electronica-inspired atmospherics. This album finds them mining much the same territory. The melancholy mood pieces here evoke effectively the spirits of Echo and the Bunnymen and Joy Division with potent doses of Shoegazer power. It is a highly enjoyable listen even if it fails to break new ground. The addition of Lorelei Plotcyzc on bass and her high sighing vocals in particular bring new possibilities to this exciting developing band. (TB) |
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| Title: |
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Besnard Lakes Are The Dark Horse |
| Label: |
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MSI Music/Super D
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Artist:
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Besnard Lakes |
| ISBN: |
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9786311056837 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00623339902724 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDMSIM701604 |
| Cat.#: |
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106 |
| Genre: |
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Rock |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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This is one of the most underrated albums of the year. This powerful six-piece from Montreal combines psychedelic pop hooks and ambient space rock driven by the power of three guitarists(!) and beautiful Brian Wilson-influenced vocal harmonies. While this combination could have proven unwieldy and chaotic, the well-crafted arrangements, the layering of guitars and keyboards and meticulous production combine to make this an indie rock gem and a revelation. Highly recommended. (TB) |
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| $0.00 |
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| Title: |
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Scribble Mural Comic Journal |
| Label: |
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Notenuf
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Artist:
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A Sunny Day In Glasgow |
| UPC: |
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843041034500 |
| Cat.#: |
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NTNF006 |
| Genre: |
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Rock |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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This record realizes and expands all the potential of their refreshingly original EP. While the influence of early Creation Records bands is clear this music is difficult to categorize. These young men and women erase the line between shoegazer pop and avante-garde noise to create something new and intriguing, disturbing and comforting. The vocals, sometimes infused with school girl innocence, other times eerie, but always a thread in the organic fabric of the whole sound, meld with effects laden, gauzy guitars, alternately sublime, dissonant, and rhythmically off-kilter combine to make a unique, beautiful album worthy of much more attention than it has received. Very highly recommended. (TB) |
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| $19.98 |
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| Title: |
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I'm Not There (OST) |
| Label: |
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Epic
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Artist:
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Various |
| ISBN: |
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9786311623893 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00886971203820 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDCOLM12038 |
| Cat.#: |
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88697120382 |
| Genre: |
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Soundtrack |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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I’m Not There is the soundtrack to Todd Haynes’ film about Bob Dylan, and it’s packed with great interpretations of Dylan’s songs. The multi-generational cast of musicians includes Ramblin’ Jack Elliott, Willie Nelson, Los Lobos, John Doe, Roger McGuinn, Jeff Tweedy, Yo La Tengo, Sonic Youth, and Cat Power. The 34 songs come from every era of Dylan’s career, ranging from Mason Jenning’s take of 1964’s “The Lonesome Death of Hattie Carroll,” up through 1997’s “Cold Irons Bound” by Tom Verlaine with The Million Dollar Bashers, a pickup band for this recording that includes organist John Medeski and Wilco guitarist Nels Cline. An obvious respect for Dylan’s work permeates this disc, and the result is a fine collection of great songs, passionately delivered by a diverse set of musicians. (GH) |
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| Title: |
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Penny Arcade |
| Label: |
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Bar None
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Artist:
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Birdie Busch |
| ISBN: |
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9786311426791 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00032862018725 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDBARN187 |
| Cat.#: |
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BRN-CD-187 |
| Genre: |
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Rock, Alternative Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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The latest from Philly singer/songwriter Birdie Busch is a rich set of tunes, sometimes delightfully quirky, other times earnest and thoughtful. Her sometimes oddly cast arrangements and love of wordplay have drawn favorable comparisons to Pink Floyd founder Syd Barrett, but make no mistake: Busch is an original voice in her own right. Her refreshing take on Steve Miller’s “Wild Mountain Honey” is getting a lot of attention, and one listen will tell you why – it’s a bit unlike anything you’ve heard, and completely mesmerizing with its haunting beauty. Recommended. (GH) |
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| Title: |
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Take to The Skies |
| Label: |
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Fontana
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Artist:
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Enter Shikari |
| ISBN: |
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9786311600016 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00602517487154 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDFNTAB001012202 |
| Cat.#: |
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B0010122-02 |
| Genre: |
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Rock, Alternative Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Enter Shikari’s debut album arrives Stateside months after making a big splash in their native England, but the band’s goth industrial metal limits their potential for becoming the next Amy Winehouse. The frantic synthesizers are unusual for the genre and incongruous with the cartoonishly demonic shouted vocals. Fortunately more traditional singing predominates. The placeholder lyrics expressing the alternately blunt sentiments “angry” or “positive” should resonate with alienated teenagers but few others. (MC) |
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| Title: |
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Best in Show |
| Label: |
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Seaview (dist. Fontana)
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Artist:
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World Party |
| ISBN: |
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9786311561379 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00859523001106 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDSEAV006 |
| Cat.#: |
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Seaview 006 |
| Genre: |
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Rock, Alternative Music |
| Release type: |
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Best of |
| Comments: |
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Karl Wallinger left the Waterboys to form World Party and quickly overshadowed his former employer’s commercial profile with their debut hit “Ship of Fools.” This greatest hits compilation covers the band’s whole career, although it gives frustratingly scant attention to their best album, the overlooked Egyptology, represented only by “She’s the One.” That the tracks aren’t in chronological order hardly matters since their sound never evolved; Wallinger wears his heart on his sleeve for rock’s forebears, the Beatles most obviously. However, liner notes detailing the source of each song would have been helpful. (MC) |
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| Title: |
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Cease to Begin |
| Label: |
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Subpop
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Artist:
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Band Of Horses |
| ISBN: |
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9786311539972 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00098787074529 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDSUBP70745 |
| Cat.#: |
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SPCD 745 |
| Genre: |
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Rock, Alternative Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Band of Horses' sophomore release gets off to a smashing start with the dense, melodic “Is There a Ghost.” The remainder is competent but not as memorable. “Marry Song” and “Window Blues” are county-inflected with a spare arrangement, while the brief instrument “Lamb on the Lam (In the City)” could pass for an outtake from goth stalwarts the Cure. Ben Bridwell shares a pinched vocal style with Modest Mouse singer Isaac Brock, a plus or minus depending on one’s preferred aesthetic. (MC) |
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| WORLD/ETHNIC |
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| $16.98 |
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| Title: |
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Mike Marshall & Darol Anger With Vasen |
| Label: |
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Adventure Music
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Artist:
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Mike Marshall & Darol Anger With Vasen |
| ISBN: |
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9786311529454 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00823421103927 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDADSI10392 |
| Cat.#: |
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AMA 1039 2 |
| Genre: |
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World Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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An American duo and a Swedish trio get together to push the acoustic envelope a little further with some traditional tunes, new ones based in both traditions, and a Brazilian choro thrown in for fun. The five play guitar, mandolin, fiddles, and nyckelharpa to build soundscapes that seem simultaneously new and old—progressive bluegrass for medievalists, perhaps. No matter what you want to call it, they blend beautifully and sound fresh and lively. (JW) |
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| $11.98 |
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| Title: |
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Woven Ways |
| Label: |
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Supraphon (dist. Qualiton)
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Artist:
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Garcia |
| ISBN: |
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9786311558775 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00099925582722 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDSUPP5827 |
| Cat.#: |
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SU 5827-2 |
| Genre: |
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World Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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OK, get this: a traditional Irish band from Czechoslovakia -- called Garcia. Though maybe that's not actually a band name -- it may just be that lead singer Katerina Garcia is getting top billing. Background info on this disc is hard to come by. Suffice it to say that you'd never guess she's Czech from either her English or her Irish pronunciation, and that her band backs up her up with tastefully rocking accompaniment (except on the awkwardly funky "One Last Cold Kiss"). Very nice. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Visions |
| Label: |
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VP
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Artist:
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Dennis Brown |
| ISBN: |
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9786311599433 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00054645411127 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDVP 4111 |
| Cat.#: |
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VPCD 4111 |
| Genre: |
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Reggae |
| Release type: |
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Reissue |
| Comments: |
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For some reason, I've always had a hard time warming up to Dennis Brown, despite his uncontested status as one of the great singers of reggae's roots period. But Visions was a triumph, his first album of serious social and religious commentary, and it's not only one of Brown's finest but also one of the finest reggae albums of the 1970s. This midprice reissue expands the original version with a couple of expanded showcase mixes. Very highly recommended. (RA) |
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| $16.98 |
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| Title: |
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Wanderlust |
| Label: |
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Times Square (dist. Koch)
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Artist:
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Kiran Ahluwalia |
| ISBN: |
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9786311179130 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00822545180227 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDTSQR1802 |
| Cat.#: |
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FQT-CD-1802 |
| Genre: |
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World Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Few musical traditions would seem to be as fundamentally mismatched as ghazal (India/Pakistan) and fado (Portugal). Yet both draw on unrequited love for their inspiration, and as Kiran Ahluwalia demonstrates on this ambitious disc, elements of both can be combined with surprising success. Her sweetly flute-like voice doesn't hurt either. (RA) |
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| $21.98 |
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| Title: |
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Trojan Country Reggae Box |
| Label: |
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Trojan/Sanctuary
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Artist:
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Various Artists |
| ISBN: |
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9786311429617 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00060768057920 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDSATY80579 |
| Cat.#: |
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80579 |
| Genre: |
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Reggae |
| Release type: |
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Boxed Set (3-discs) |
| Comments: |
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Who wants to hear vintage reggae versions of "Stand By Your Man" and "Jambalaya" and "Sunshine On My Shoulders"? You do, of course, and so do your patrons. Besides, Toots & the Maytals' version of "Take Me Home Country Roads" squashes John Denver's like a grape, and it takes a Rastafarian to sing really convincingly about the "Green, Green Grass of Home" (wink, wink). (RA) |
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| $21.98 |
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| Title: |
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The Voice of Lightness: Congo Classic 1961-1977 |
| Label: |
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Sterns Music USA
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Artist:
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Tabu Ley Rochereau |
| ISBN: |
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9786311712870 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00740042302723 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDSTEN3027-28 |
| Cat.#: |
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3027 |
| Genre: |
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World Music |
| Release type: |
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Compilation (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
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This is major. Tabu Ley Rochereau, one of the two main exponents (along with his rival Franco)of the Congolese style known first as rumba and then as soukous, THE African music of the 60s and 70s, has not been well-served by compilations. Until now. This two-disc offering from Sterns covers Rochereau’s prime, the period 1961-1977, and it contains track after transcendent track of sweet singing, lovely guitar playing, and swinging Cuban-flavored rhythm. One of the most welcome reissue compilations of the year, and a great place to start for those unfamiliar with this very influential style. (SA) |
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| $44.99 |
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| Title: |
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Vol. 2- Box Of Dub |
| Label: |
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Phantom Sound & Vision
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Artist:
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Various Artists |
| ISBN: |
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9786311706046 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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05026328101729 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDPHAM1260802 |
| Cat.#: |
|
7541532 |
| Genre: |
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Reggae |
| Release type: |
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Compilation |
| Comments: |
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The current style of club music called dubstep is still not well-known outside of the London underground, but compilations like this will go a long way towards making the new sounds available to outsiders. Featuring some of the genre’s biggest names – Pinch, Skream, Kode9, Digital Mystikz – the two Box of Dub collections showcase the murky mix of deep bass and electronic texture, with the occasional vocal by way of its cousin grime, that dubstep is known for. Suitable for home listening, but it works best if you turn it up LOUD. (SA) |
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| Title: |
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Para Alem da Saudade |
| Label: |
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World Village (dist. Harmonia Mundi)
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Artist:
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Ana Moura |
| ISBN: |
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9786311642931 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00713746807221 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDHMD 468072 |
| Cat.#: |
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468072 |
| Genre: |
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World Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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The latest from this fast-rising young fadista is another triumph and another reason why more North Americans need to expose themselves to this Portuguese song tradition. Richly tuneful and powerfully emotional, fado falls somewhere between cabaret, pop, opera, and folk music, and Ana Moura is one of its finest living practitioners. Para Alem da Saudade is a bit more upbeat than usual, and that might make this album a perfect introduction to the genre for newcomers. Very highly recommended. (RA) |
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© CD HotList 2004 |
