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March 2008
Look for "Rick's Pick" 
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| CLASSICAL |
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| $19.98 |
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| Title: |
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Sonatas for Recorder & Continuo |
| Label: |
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Harmonia Mundi USA
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Composer:
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Giueseppe Sammartini |
| Performer: |
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Maurice Steger et al. |
| ISBN: |
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9786311710548 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00794881848829 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDHMD HMC905266 |
| Cat.#: |
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HMC 905266 |
| Period: |
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Baroque |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Here is a completely delightful collection of recorder sonatas, performed with a shifting arrangement of continuo accompaniment (including harp, bassoon, and theorbed lute as well as the more common cello, organ and harpsichord) by brilliant young recorder player Maurice Steger with an ad hoc group of accompanists. Giuseppe Sammartini was a court composer for the Prince of Wales, but there's not much English influence present in these compositions -- they have all the frothy elegance of the high Italian baroque and are performed with wit and energy by this top-notch ensemble. Recommended to all classical collections. (RA) |
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| $33.99 |
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| Title: |
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The Legend |
| Label: |
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Profil (dist. Naxos)
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Composer:
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Fritz Wunderlich |
| ISBN: |
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9786311762356 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00881488801651 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDPFILPH08016 |
| Cat.#: |
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PH08016 |
| Period: |
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Romantic |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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Compilation (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
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This two-disc set presents a nice selection of mid-1950s recordings by the legendary Fritz Wunderlich, a spectacularly gifted tenor who died tragically at the age of 36. The program includes arias and scenes from Puccini, Mascagni, Mozart, Strauss and others, presented in very good sound but (criminally) without much in the way of liner notes. Recommended to libraries supporting a limited opera program, this set will probably not be necessary in more extensive opera collections. (RA) |
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| $11.98 |
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| Title: |
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Romantic Works for Piano & Orchestra |
| Label: |
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MSR Classics (dist. Albany)
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Composer:
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Franz Liszt; Franz Schubert |
| Performer: |
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Joshua Pierce; Moscow State Philharmonic; State Symphony Orchestra of Russia / Paul Freeman |
| ISBN: |
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9786311692424 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00681585121023 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDMSRCMS1210 |
| Cat.#: |
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MS 1210 |
| Period: |
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Romantic |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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I've never been a big fan of Liszt, but I'm a huge fan of pianist Joshua Pierce, and danged if he hasn't convinced me (mostly) that the Rhapsodie Espagnole is worth my time. As for Schubert's Wanderer Fantasy, no convincing was needed. Both Russian orchestras are excellent. (RA) |
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| $18.98 |
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| Title: |
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Mache dich auf, werde licht: Cantatas |
| Label: |
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Carus (dist. Albany)
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Composer:
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Johann Ludwig Bach |
| Performer: |
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Jugendkantorei Dormagen; Das Kleine Konzert / Hermann Max |
| ISBN: |
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9786311762912 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00409350831867 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDCARUC83186 |
| Cat.#: |
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83.186 |
| Period: |
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Baroque |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Johann Ludwig Bach was one of Johann Sebastian Bach's more musically talented cousins, and spent twenty years as composer to the Court of Meiningen. There he wrote nearly 25 cantatas, most of them sacred, and four of those are performed here by a fine cast of soloists (including the always excellent Barbara Schlick) with a church choir and small period-instrument ensemble led by Hermann Max. Apart from some slightly out-of-tune double reeds, the performances are very good and the pieces themselves are very impressive -- it would be nice to hear more from this composer. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Mozart - Arranged by His Contemporaries |
| Label: |
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Musicaphon (dist. Qualiton)
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Composer:
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Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart |
| Performer: |
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Heike Nicodemus; Maximilian Mangold |
| ISBN: |
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9786311021866 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00675754970826 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDMPH 56883 |
| Cat.#: |
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M 56883 |
| Period: |
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Classical |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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In Mozart's day, long before sound recordings, one of the primary ways for most people to enjoy music was to play it themselves. This meant a brisk trade in chamber arrangements of popular large-scale works, and few composers' large-scale works were as popular as Mozart's. This disc brings together arrangements for flute and guitar (played splendidly here on period instruments) of popular Mozart melodies from various operas and larger chamber works. There are romantic tendencies in the arrangements that are perhaps a bit exaggerated from the originals, but the playing on this recording could not be more tasteful or elegant. Highly recommended to all classical collections. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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The Old Maid & The Thief |
| Label: |
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Albany
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Composer:
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Gian Carlo Menotti |
| ISBN: |
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9786311714430 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00034061099024 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDAR TROY990 |
| Cat.#: |
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TROY990 |
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20th century |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Menotti's short opera buffa, commissioned specifically for radio in 1939, has a riotously funny plot. This production by Lone Spring Arts is superbly done. With no stage action for the audience to view, the emotional drama is keenly conveyed by the cast and the orchestral support is superb. This opera is not recorded very often so any recording of it is worth buying. Thoroughly enjoyable and I'm not an opera fan. Recommended for all collections. (MJB) |
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| $17.99 |
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| Title: |
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Gellert Oden |
| Label: |
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CPO
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Composer:
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Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach |
| Performer: |
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Ludge Rémy; Dorothy Mields |
| ISBN: |
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9786308843099 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00761203706129 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDCPO 777061 |
| Cat.#: |
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777 061 |
| Period: |
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Classical |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Gellert was professor of philosophy at Leipzig, where he lectured on poetry, rhetoric and literary style - when he published the Geistliche Oden und Lieder in 1757, C.P.E. Bach immediately set them music. Dorothee Mields and Ludger Rémy present a delightful program of these often-overlooked gems, some as arranged piano solos by Rémy (in the style of C.P.E.?); Mields' tone is appropriately mellow for the chamber, and Rémy's accompaniment neither stands on toes nor is lost. (AJ) |
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| $19.98 |
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| Title: |
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Lute Works Vol.1 |
| Label: |
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Harmonia Mundi
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Composer:
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Johann Sebastian Bach |
| Performer: |
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Paul O'Dette |
| ISBN: |
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9786311368930 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00093046743826 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDHMD HMU907438 |
| Cat.#: |
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HMU 907438 |
| Period: |
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Baroque |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Any new album by Paul O'Dette is usually a lock, especially solo performances - however, when it's the beginning of an all-Bach series, one really takes notice. The influential recordings of Andrés Segovia are perhaps the high watermarks of these works, but to have O'Dette (finally) present them on lute is quite the treat everyone expects it to be. Amazingly precise and yet free to move with the movements of the dance suite, O'Dette's interpretation is the usual joy - there is really not much more to be said, except run (do not walk) to buy this recording. (AJ) |
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| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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Piano Concerto no. 24, K491; Piano Concerto |
| Label: |
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EMI Classics
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Composer:
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Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart; Robert Schumann |
| Performer: |
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Evgeny Kissin; London Symphony Orchestra / Colin Davis |
| ISBN: |
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9786311428252 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00094638287926 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDEMIC82879 |
| Cat.#: |
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3 82879 2 |
| Period: |
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Romantic |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Evgeny Kissin and the London Symphony Orchestra are a match made in heaven on this program of romantic piano concertos -- Mozart's a heartbreakingly lovely farewell to classical form (on which Kissin plays an original cadenza), Schumann's a colorful celebration of romantic freedom of expression. Kissin plays brilliantly, as does the LSO, and the concert recording is excellent. (RA) |
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| $12.98 |
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| Title: |
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Oboe Sonatas |
| Label: |
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Berlin Classics (dist. Albany)
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Composer:
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Johann Friedrich Fasch |
| Performer: |
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Burkhard Glaetzner; Ingo Goritzki; et al. |
| ISBN: |
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9786311327708 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00782124138523 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDBERCBC1385 |
| Cat.#: |
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0013852BC |
| Period: |
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Baroque |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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Reissue |
| Comments: |
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Johann Friedrich Fasch was a contemporary of J.S. Bach, and a great fan of Georg Philipp Telemann. These oboe sonatas show him to be very much a man of his time -- not quite the technical equal of Bach and not quite the melodist that Telemann was, but highly gifted nonetheless. The recording is interesting in that the double-reed instruments (oboes in the solo parts, bassoons in the continuo) sound like modern ones, while the continuo strings and keyboards are period instruments. The resulting sound balance is a little bit strange, but not unpleasant. The playing is very good and so is the sound quality on this 1987 recording. Recommended. (RA) |
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| COUNTRY/FOLK |
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| $13.98 |
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| Title: |
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Whiskey Falls |
| Label: |
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Midas
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Artist:
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Whiskey Falls |
| ISBN: |
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9786311469941 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00881529018420 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDMDAS90184 |
| Cat.#: |
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MID 881529018420 |
| Genre: |
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Country & Western |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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As country-rock goes, Whiskey Falls' debut album is pretty mainstream stuff, but there are some subtle things that set it apart: the denseness and complexity of the harmony singing, for example, and the unapologetic rockishness of several tracks. (And is that an electronic drum loop percolating behind the fiddle on "The Champ"? No, surely not.) Nice stuff. (RA) |
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| $30.00 |
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| Title: |
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The Live Wire, Woody Guthrie: In Performance, 1949 |
| Label: |
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Woody Guthrie Publications
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Artist:
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Woody Guthrie |
| Cat.#: |
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| Genre: |
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Folk |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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This newly-restored 1949 recording of Woody Guthrie playing and discussing his life and songs before a live audience in Newark, New Jersey, allows the listener to glimpse many aspects of the legendary folk singer. His independent spirit is particularly evident as he constantly veers from and back to the pre-arranged program moderated by his wife, Marjorie. The songs include some of his greatest works (“Tom Joad,” “Jesus Christ,” and “Pastures of Plenty” to name just a few) and the audio captured originally on a wire recording is good considering the limitations of the original medium. This rare glimpse at the performance style of this legendary folk singer won the 2008 Grammy for Best Historical Album. (CLHD) |
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| $16.98 |
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| Title: |
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Turn Loose But Don't Let Go |
| Label: |
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Arhoolie
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Artist:
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Savoy Family Band |
| ISBN: |
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9786311753286 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00096297052525 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDARHO525 |
| Cat.#: |
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525 |
| Genre: |
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Cajun |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Subtlety and stylistic variety are not usually the first ideas that pop to mind when thinking about Cajun music. But this album by the Eunice, LA-based Savoy Family Band offers both, while never losing sight of the verities: stomping two-steps, swaying waltzes, heartbroken songs of love and loss delivered in quavering Southern Louisiana French. Very nice indeed. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Recapturing The Banjo |
| Label: |
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Telarc
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Artist:
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Otis Taylor |
| ISBN: |
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9786311771662 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00089408366727 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDTELA83667 |
| Cat.#: |
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CD-83667 |
| Genre: |
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Folk/Blues |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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There has been growing interest lately in rediscovering the African (and African-American) roots of the five-string banjo, and this release from bluesman Otis Taylor can be seen as a step in that direction. Along with several collaborators (including Keb' Mo', Alvin Youngblood Hart and Gus Cannon), he presents a varied program of new and traditional songs -- many of them dark and bluesy, some downright angry, and some rollicking and fun. No folk music collection should be without this fascinating disc. (RA) |
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| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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Quartet |
| Label: |
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Rounder
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Artist:
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Peter Rowan and Tony Rice |
| ISBN: |
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9786310556888 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00011661057920 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECD116 6105792 |
| Cat.#: |
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11661-0579-2 |
| Genre: |
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Bluegrass |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Rowan and Rice are joined by Sharon Gilchrist of Uncle Earl, and Bryn Davies of Old and in the Gray for a batch of progressive bluegrass tunes with unusual flavors. Without banjo or fiddle, Gilchrist’s mandolin and Rowan’s guitar dominate musically, with excellent harmonies from the ladies. The songs are great, many by Rowan himself, and the musicianship is superb. This one won’t wear out. (JW) |
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| $12.97 |
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| Title: |
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Wilderness Plots |
| Label: |
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Rosehill Records
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Artist:
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Krista Detor, Tim Grimm, Carrie Newcomer, Tom Roznowski, Michael White |
| UPC: |
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700261212012 |
| Cat.#: |
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RH-111 |
| Genre: |
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Folk |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Somebody had a very bright idea. Five Indiana singer-songwriters have composed songs based on tales from the book Wilderness Plots by Scott Russell Sanders. The tales themselves come from historical events in the settling of the Ohio Valley region. The concept is very creative, but the songs are even better. Beautifully played and sung, they evoke the past times and people of the frontier, good and bad. More importantly, they stick in your head and haunt you the way good folk songs are supposed to. This one is a real find. (JW) |
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| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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Prodigal Son |
| Label: |
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Compass/Topic
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Artist:
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Martin Simpson |
| ISBN: |
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9786311561027 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00766397446622 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDCOMS974466 |
| Cat.#: |
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7 4466 2 |
| Genre: |
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Folk Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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World-class guitarist (and okay singer) Martin Simpson delivers another winner with his latest collection of traditional and original-but-tradition-minded songs and tunes. He's generally in a subdued and contemplative mode here -- many of these songs and tunes express feelings related to the passing of his mother, the birth of his daughter, and his love for his wife, and there is a unity of mood across the program (regardless of the tempo or the lyrical theme) that makes it really quite special. Recommended. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Welcome Here Again |
| Label: |
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Green Linnet
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Artist:
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Martin Hayes; Dennis Cahill |
| ISBN: |
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9786311817360 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00048248123327 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDGREN481233 |
| Cat.#: |
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GLCD 1233 |
| Genre: |
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Celtic |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Those who aren't already familiar with this duo are in for a real treat. Hayes is that rarest of breeds, an Irish fiddler who plays to showcase the melody rather than to show off his ability to ornament it. And Cahill is a guitarist who somehow manages to play completely differently from any other guitarist without ever drawing attention to himself. On this gorgeous album the duo plays a fairly standard set of traditional tunes, but their unusual playing style (and the fact that Hayes' fiddle is tuned a whole step down) gives everything a slightly bittersweet flavor, and puts a beautiful, dark patina on the sound. Stunning. (RA) |
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| $16.98 |
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| Title: |
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Post-Industrial Blues |
| Label: |
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Ruf
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Artist:
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Bob Brozman |
| ISBN: |
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9786311599259 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00710347113324 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDRUFR1133 |
| Cat.#: |
|
1133 |
| Genre: |
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Blues |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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On this album, Brozman takes a break from his world-music-fusion experimentation and returns to his blues roots with a program consisting mainly of original tunes, some of them improvised in the studio while tape rolled. He's one of the world's finest slide guitarists and an okay singer, but his lyrics tend to be a bit ham-handed -- the couplet "I learned a lot in school but they never teach children about corruption and greed/I think a strong nation is one where people have access to basic needs" is, sadly, typical. Great version of "Shafafa," though. (RA) |
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| JAZZ |
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| Title: |
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The Words and The Days |
| Label: |
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ECM
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Artist:
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Enrico Rava Quintet |
| ISBN: |
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9786310894331 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00602517097735 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDUMG B000839302 |
| Cat.#: |
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ECM 1982 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Heard much Italian jazz lately? Here’s your chance, as Mr. Rava and his group offer some originals and a few standards with a different and fascinating sound. The quintet plays dreamlike ballads, quiet but intense in a post-bop style, with a twist of noir. Rava is featured on trumpet for many solos, but bass, trombone, and piano all get their share. It’s a brave new jazz world, and Rava is one of its principal speakers. This is avant-garde enough for the adventurous, but oddly familiar to those who prefer more traditional jazz. (JW) |
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| $49.98 |
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| Title: |
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A Voice In Time (1939-1952) |
| Label: |
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Sony Legacy
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Artist:
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Frank Sinatra |
| ISBN: |
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9786311517642 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00886970966924 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDCOLM09669 |
| Cat.#: |
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709669-2 |
| Genre: |
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Popular Music |
| Release type: |
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Boxed Set (4-discs) |
| Comments: |
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This 4-CD set documents Frank Sinatra’s rise to fame from 1939-52, when the man known as “The Voice” dominated the airwaves. Each CD focuses on an aspect of his multi-faceted career: “The Big Band Years” (1939-42) documents his years with Harry James and Tommy Dorsey, “Teen Idol” (1943-52) showcases the pop tunes that made him a superstar, “The Great American Songbook” (1943-52) features his classic takes on iconic American tunes, and “The Sound of Things to Come” (1949-52) examines how Sinatra the stage for his mid-50’s collaborations with Nelson Riddle. The music and enclosed hardbound book provide a great overview to Sinatra’s early career, when he defined the role of pop superstar long before Elvis and the Beatles came on the scene. Recommended. (GH) |
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| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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Live at The Village Vanguard |
| Label: |
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Blue Note
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Artist:
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Bill Charlap Trio |
| ISBN: |
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9786311158128 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00724359704425 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDBNOT97044 |
| Cat.#: |
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7243 5 97044 2 5 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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This set of standards by Arlen, Rodgers, and others was recorded at the hallowed halls of the Village Vanguard in 2003. Charlap’s piano runs delicately and expressively over each piece, working as if his piano were a singer. Backed by the solid rhythm section of Peter Washington and Kenny Washington, they mix lively and romantic pieces into a very enjoyable program. This one is for fans of piano jazz. (JW) |
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| Title: |
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The Cat Walk |
| Label: |
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Blue Note
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Artist:
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Donald Byrd |
| ISBN: |
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9786311017876 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00094637422625 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDBNOT74226 |
| Cat.#: |
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0946 3 74226 2 5 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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Reissue |
| Comments: |
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Trumpeter Donald Byrd is the nominal head of this quintet session, recorded in 1961 and now reissued. But it’s his relationship with Pepper Adams (baritone sax) and Duke Pearson (piano) that really makes this release special. The long-time friends play off each other, expertly trading solos, and clearly have a great time in front of the rhythm section of Laymon Jackson and Philly Joe Jones. This is one of the group’s best efforts in the hard bop tradition. (JW) |
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| $15.00 |
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| Title: |
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Look What I Found |
| Label: |
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Present Sounds Recordings
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Artist:
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Tom Baker Quartet |
| UPC: |
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634479412219 |
| Cat.#: |
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PS0701 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Interesting and engaging mix of the avant-garde and jazz improvisation. This Seattle band's music is full of subtle detail that is best enjoyed with close and attentive listening. Though all four musicians work well together and produce colossally fine music, the collective color produced when clarinet and bass clarinet are added make this album an irresistible delicacy. Highly recommended. (MJB) |
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| Title: |
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Gratitude |
| Label: |
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Origin
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Artist:
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Hadley Caliman |
| ISBN: |
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9786311720776 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00805558249921 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDORGN82499 |
| Cat.#: |
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82499 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Hadley Caliman returns as a band leader for the first time in two decades. The tenor saxophonist teams up with Thomas Marriott on trumpet and flugelhorn and Joe Locke on vibes and the result is incredible. Warm-sounding jazz influenced by John Coltrane and Dexter Gordon and recorded in one day! Highly recommended. (MJB) |
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| $35.98 |
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| Title: |
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Setting Standards: New York Sessions |
| Label: |
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ECM
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Artist:
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Keith Jarrett, Gary Peacock, and Jack DeJohnette |
| ISBN: |
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9786311754191 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00602517373440 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDUMG B000994802 |
| Cat.#: |
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ECM 2030-32 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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Boxed Set (3-discs) |
| Comments: |
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The Standards Trio, as they’ve come to be known, has thrived on the fine art of using jazz vocal material as improvisational fodder for a quarter of a century, and they do it as well as any trio in jazz history. ECM’s new box repackages their first three recordings (Standards, Vol. 1, Vol. 2, and Changes) into one attractive package. The interplay between Jarrett’s piano, Peacock’s bass, and DeJohnette’s drums reaches a swinging groove that’s as dazzling now as it was when these recordings were first made 25 years ago. A personal favorite is the trio’s extended version of Billie Holiday’s “God Bless the Child.” Essential for any jazz collection – and very highly recommended. (GH)
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| Title: |
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Unforgettable NHOP Trio Live |
| Label: |
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Act Music & Vision
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Artist:
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Niels-Henning Ørsted Pederson Trio |
| ISBN: |
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9786311532522 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00614427946423 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDAMSV9464 |
| Cat.#: |
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9464-2 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Pederson is perhaps best known as a favorite sideman of both Oscar Peterson and Stephane Grappelli, but his work as a leader has been consistently impressive for decades, and this electrifying live set finds him at the top of his powers. With guitarist Ulf Wakenius and drummer Jonas Johansen, he burns through a mixed program of jazz standards, originals by both himself and Wakenius, a couple of Scandinavian folksong arrangements, and even some Bach. This album is consistently brilliant, warm, and thrillingly virtuosic. (RA) |
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| ROCK/POP |
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| $15.98 |
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| Title: |
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Made in The Dark |
| Label: |
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Astralwerks
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Artist:
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Hot Chip |
| ISBN: |
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9786311807439 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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05099951809423 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDATWR18094B |
| Cat.#: |
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18094 |
| Genre: |
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Rock |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Hot Chip's sound is still a little goofy and wild -- trashy electronics, scrappy guitars, deadpan falsetto vocals, flatfooted funk grooves -- and still pretty charming. But on their latest album they seem to be calming down a bit, slowing the tempo and thinking harder. The result is mostly impressive, but occasionally awkward. If their previous albums have been circulating, though, you can expect demand for this one, and fans won't be disappointed. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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The Joshua Tree |
| Label: |
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Island
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Artist:
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U2 |
| ISBN: |
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9786311652121 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00602517509481 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDUMG B001030400 |
| Cat.#: |
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B0010304-00 Island |
| Genre: |
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Rock, Alternative Music |
| Release type: |
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Reissue (3-discs) |
| Comments: |
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The landmark album that turned U2 into stadium-level superstars gets the deluxe treatment. The first disc is the original release in all its anthem-filled glory. The second compiles outtakes and rareties. The third, a DVD, includes a full-length concert from 1987, a documentary from their American tour and two music videos. Liner notes offer prespective from the participants and outside observers. The music holds up well and merits the extras. (MC) |
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| Title: |
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Cross |
| Label: |
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Vice (dist. Ada)
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Artist:
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Justice |
| ISBN: |
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9786311287040 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00825646298624 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDVICE224892 |
| Cat.#: |
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224892-2 |
| Genre: |
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Electronica |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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These days, anyone can record with just Pro Tools and an iMac, but
ease of use and access won't necessarily make for great music. But
electronica duo Justice, doesn't just use technology as a novelty.
They weave Philly soul style strings and bass lines reminiscent of
Nile Rodgers' production with plenty of modern flourishes for
something fresh and new. The lyrics, on only a few tracks, are weak,
but this is otherwise likely to appeal to fans of LCD Soundsystem. (MC) |
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| $19.98 |
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| Title: |
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Trinity Revisited (CD/DVD) |
| Label: |
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Zoe
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Artist:
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Cowboy Junkies |
| ISBN: |
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9786311865811 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00601143112126 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECD011 4311212 |
| Cat.#: |
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STRB-973064 |
| Genre: |
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Popular Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Two decades ago, the Cowboy Junkies cemented their sound and musical personality by recording an album in the Church of the Holy Trinity in Toronto. The resulting LP, The Trinity Session, defined the Cowboy Junkies sound. Trinity Revisited, a CD/DVD combo package, features the Junkies back in Holy Trinity, singing the same songs, with a stellar set of guest musicians. The music has gained depth and context after two decades, but sounds wonderfully fresh in these takes. Guests include Natalie Merchant, who shares vocals with Margo on “Misguided Angel,” Vic Chesnutt, longtime Junkies musical companion Jeff Bird, and the hugely talented Ryan Adams. The real beauty here is the sound and sight of the DVD. The band and guests sit in a circle, with masterful lighting from carefully placed spotlights and on-stage candles imparting a warm glow to the church, with the stained-glass windows adding further ambiance. (GH)
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| $18.98 |
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| Title: |
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Play It 'Til Tomorrow |
| Label: |
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Blue Bella
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Artist:
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Nick Moss & The Flip Tops |
| ISBN: |
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9786311602713 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00800595100822 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDBBEL1008 |
| Cat.#: |
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BB 1008 |
| Genre: |
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Blues |
| Release type: |
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New (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
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Moss is a respected Chicago guitarist who writes original songs steeped in the Windy City’s blues tradition. This two-CD set features one disc of electric songs, and a second of acoustic material, all delivered with style and chops to spare. If you want a snapshot of the current state of the Chicago blues sound, Moss and the Flip Tops will serve you well. Recommended. (GH) |
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| Title: |
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The Very Best Of The 5 Royales |
| Label: |
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Collectables
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Artist:
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Five Royales |
| ISBN: |
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9786308430435 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00090431288528 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDCOLL2885 |
| Cat.#: |
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2885 |
| Genre: |
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Popular Music |
| Release type: |
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Reissue |
| Comments: |
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Emerging from a background in gospel music, the 5 Royales became one of the most successful rhythm and blues vocal groups of the 1950s through their combination of smooth harmonies, risqué lyrics, and bluesy instrumental rave-ups. Although lacking a few of the groups’ chart-topping hits, this 2006 collection features 25 well-recorded and representative songs from this influential, but frequently overlooked group. This collection includes their song, “Think,” which became an early hit for James Brown and “Dedicated to the One I Love” which was also a hit for the Mamas and the Pappas. (CLHD) |
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| Title: |
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Respect Yourself: The Stax Records Story [DVD] |
| Label: |
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Stax Records/Concord Jazz
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Artist:
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Various Artists |
| ISBN: |
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9786311546888 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00888072703292 |
| Prod.#: |
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BEDDSTXR7032 |
| Cat.#: |
|
7032 |
| Genre: |
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Music Video |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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This documentary uses interviews with many of the original Stax Records performers, studio personnel, owners, and office workers to tell the story of the rise and fall of the extremely influential Memphis record label. Ground breaking in terms of the southern soul sound recorded there and in the label’s racially integrated business and performance practices, Stax’s story reflects the social upheaval of the civil rights era and the Black Power movement. Excellent performance footage reveals the power of the music produced by Stax and the informed commentary by first-person observers tells the story as only insiders can. (CLHD) |
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| Title: |
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Some Delicious Enemy |
| Label: |
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Nexus Underground
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Artist:
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Saturna |
| ISBN: |
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9786311244401 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00892464001132 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDNXSU1984 |
| Cat.#: |
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1984 |
| Genre: |
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Rock, Alternative Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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This is blissed-out, down to earth, futuristic space rock that is immediately accessible, yet worthy of repeated listens. The balance of lush harmonies, ambient interludes, straight up rockers and subtle washes and waves of guitar noise is just right, reflecting an uncanny musical intelligence and discipline. The album is full of understated, dissonant coils of gauzy guitar effects and reverb laden vocal harmonies that would make Ride or the Beach Boys proud, making them easily one of the best bands you never heard of. Yet. Beat the rush; get this one now. (TB) |
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| $12.98 |
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| Title: |
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Sleep Forever |
| Label: |
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French Kiss Records/Red
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Artist:
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Big Sleep |
| ISBN: |
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9786311837870 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00675640912428 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDFKSS032 |
| Cat.#: |
|
32 |
| Genre: |
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Rock |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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This album finds the Brooklyn post-rock trio expanding the critically acclaimed territory of their first release, Son Of The Tiger. The sound is huge, not that they don’t play softly, to great effect at times, and not randomly. The name of their first record is apt: tigers become human. Only these cats are calculating math-geeks, hence the unexpected soft passages, erratic rhythms, and well-planned chaotic noise dosed with blues-infused riffs. They combine the mesmerizing drone and noise-infused layering of Sonic Youth and My Bloody Valentine with echoes of Zeppelin guitar grandeur. (TB) |
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| Title: |
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Third Transmission |
| Label: |
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Graveface (dist. Fontana)
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Artist:
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Experimental Aircraft |
| ISBN: |
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9786311848951 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00643157394433 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDGVFC023 |
| Cat.#: |
|
23 |
| Genre: |
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Popular Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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The name captures exquisitely so many subtle aspects of what this Austin quartet sounds like. Comparisons to Sonic Youth, Stereolab, and a who’s who of dream pop stalwarts have been understandably made for sound reason. They take elements of space rock, shoegaze, futuristic, and at times apocalyptic moods to create soundscapes that take you to sublime, relaxed, if at times tumultuous destinations. Rachel Staggs’ breathy vocals prominently, but always understatedly meld with swirling, reverby guitars and hypnotic rhythms to create sublime sonic worlds that are hypnotic and addictive. Highly recommended. (TB) |
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| WORLD/ETHNIC |
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| Title: |
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La Belle Epoque: EMI's French Girls 1965-1968 |
| Label: |
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Special Import Service (dist. Caroline)
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Artist:
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Various Artists |
| ISBN: |
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9786311526132 |
| ISBN-10: |
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|
| UPC: |
|
00094638989929 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDCROL89899 |
| Cat.#: |
|
0946 3 89899 2 9 EMI |
| Genre: |
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Popular Music |
| Release type: |
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Compilation |
| Comments: |
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This compilation rounds up the French counterparts to the likes of Petula Clark and Dionne Warwick. The names, all artists on EMI’s French labels, may not be familiar, but the production style is. Riding the border between easy listening and rock from the mid ‘60s, the overall sound has a froth of both sophistication and youth that calls for beaded evening gowns and go go boots. Liner notes are informative, although the editing is sloppy. (MC) |
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| Title: |
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Fragile Beauty |
| Label: |
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Act Music & Vision
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Artist:
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Huong Thanh; Nguyên Lê |
| ISBN: |
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9786311819043 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00614427945129 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDAMSV9451 |
| Cat.#: |
|
9451 |
| Genre: |
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World Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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There may not be a more beautiful spoken language than Vietnamese. As a sung language it's even prettier, and these melodies (some traditional or classical, others newly composed) are placed in unusual modern settings by vocalist Huong Thanh and guitarist/producer Nguyên Lê. The results are quite varied in tone and mood, but always attractive and frequently stunning. Very highly recommended to all world music collections. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Look Directly Into The Sun: China Pop 2007 |
| Label: |
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Invisible China
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Artist:
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Various Artists |
| ISBN: |
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9786311604496 |
| ISBN-10: |
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|
| UPC: |
|
00744302060026 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDINVC20600 |
| Cat.#: |
|
600 |
| Genre: |
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Rock, Alternative Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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"China Pop" is a little bit of a misnomer -- what this fantastic compilation really is is Chinese punk and new wave and No Wave and avant-rock and gothic metal. Some of it is sung in English, some in Chinese, and some of it is instrumental. Much of it demonstrates more enthusiasm than skill -- which, if you'll remember, is what we loved about this type of music when it was being made in New York and London in the 1970s and early '80s. A must. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Father of Orquesta Tejana Vol. 1 |
| Label: |
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Arhoolie
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Artist:
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Beto Villa |
| ISBN: |
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9786311311479 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00096297905920 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDARHO9059 |
| Cat.#: |
|
ARH CD 9059 |
| Genre: |
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Latin |
| Release type: |
|
Compilation |
| Comments: |
|
This completely charming music was originally recorded between 1948 and 1954 in south Texas and released on a series of 78 rpm singles; the music sounds like a cross between big band jazz of the 1930s and the Tejano music that most of us are familiar with today, with an occasional dash of Western swing thrown in for good measure. The sound quality isn't great, but it's better than one might expect. Very, very nice. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Ticklah vs. Axelrod |
| Label: |
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Easy Star
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Artist:
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Ticklah |
| ISBN: |
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9786311472590 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
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| UPC: |
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00657481101520 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDMGFC1015 |
| Cat.#: |
|
ES 1015 |
| Genre: |
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Reggae |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
The title of this album arises from Victor "Ticklah" Axelrod's self-confessed tendency to constantly second-guess his musical choices. His agony is our gain on this brilliant collection of original dub, reggae, and Latin grooves, all of them rich with analog depth and warmth, all of them drenched in dubwise production values. And many of them featuring Victor Rice, the best bassist you've never heard of. Very highly recommended. (RA) |
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© CD HotList 2004 |
