|
May 2008
Look for "Rick's Pick" 
|
| CLASSICAL |
|
 |
| |
| $22.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
 |
|
| Title: |
|
12 Concerti Grossi after Geminiani |
| Label: |
|
Divine Art
|
|
Composer:
|
|
Francesco Geminiani |
| Performer: |
|
Avison Ensemble / Pavlo Beznosiuk |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311714782 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00809730121029 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDDARTDD21210 |
| Cat.#: |
|
dda21210 |
| Period: |
|
Baroque |
| Genre: |
|
Classical |
| Release type: |
|
New (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
Little-known until fairly recently, Charles Avison was one of England's greatest concerto composers. In the early 1700s he arranged eleven of Francesco Geminiani's violin sonatas in concerto grosso format, and these are performed very nicely here on period instruments by the Avison Ensemble under the direction of violin soloist Pavlo Beznosiuk. Avison's arrangements preserve all of the fire and elegance of the original pieces, and the Avison Ensemble gives them brisk and lively performances. Highly recommended. (RA) |
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Atenaide |
| Label: |
|
Naive
|
|
Composer:
|
|
Antonio Vivaldi |
| Performer: |
|
Modo Antiquo; Various Soloists / Federico Maria Sardelli |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311608630 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00709861304387 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDNAIVOP30438 |
| Cat.#: |
|
OP 30438 |
| Period: |
|
Baroque |
| Genre: |
|
Classical |
| Release type: |
|
Boxed Set (3-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
Vivaldi is slowly escaping the narrow frame of reference that has constricted his place in the popular imagination for centuries. Yes, he wrote the Four Seasons and about three million other very nice concertos. But as this excellent series of recordings makes clear, he was also a sharp and inventive opera composer. The ninth volume in the Naive label's Vivaldi Edition features Atenaide, a work that is given a brilliant performance by Modo Antiquo and a really stellar array of vocal soloists, especially the tenor Paul Agnew. Highly recommended to all opera and early music collections. (RA) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $19.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
The Artistry Of Barthold Kuijken: Works For Transverse Flute |
| Label: |
|
Accent (dist. Qualiton)
|
|
Composer:
|
|
Various Composers |
| Performer: |
|
Barthold Kuijken; various accompanists |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311857601 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00675754005672 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDACCE24203 |
| Cat.#: |
|
ACC 24203 |
| Period: |
|
Various |
| Genre: |
|
Classical |
| Release type: |
|
Compilation |
| Comments: |
|
One of the greatest living exponents of the baroque flute (a wooden, open-holed flute used from the 16th to the early 19th centuries), Barthold Kuijken has been recording with various ensembles for over thirty years. This fine compilation brings together recordings of works by Telemann, Couperin, Mozart, Scuhbert and two Bachs; his performance of the Trockne Blumen variations may be most surprising to those who have only heard him in baroque and classical contexts, while his rendition of Mozart's D major flute quartet remains one of the most sweetly enjoyable classical recordings ever. (RA) |
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
The Young Maverick |
| Label: |
|
CBC Records
|
|
Composer:
|
|
Various Composers |
| Performer: |
|
Glenn Gould |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311655801 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00059582203026 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDCBC PSCD2030 |
| Cat.#: |
|
PSCD20306 |
| Period: |
|
Various |
| Genre: |
|
Classical |
| Release type: |
|
Boxed Set (6-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
Before he was a quirky radio experimentalist, Glenn Gould was a quirky piano virtuoso whose 1950s recording of Bach's Goldberg Variations set the music world on its ear and made him a worldwide celebrity. The performances brought together on this budget-priced six-disc set were almost all made in Gould's native Toronto for radio broadcast, and include an early account of the Goldberg Variations as well as works by Beethoven, Arnold Schoenberg, Anton Webern and Alban Berg -- a program that may seem startlingly wide, but actually reflects Gould's fascination with musical structure. A must for any piano collection. (RA) |
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Complete Chamber Works |
| Label: |
|
Brilliant Classics (dist. Koch)
|
|
Composer:
|
|
Henry Purcell |
| Performer: |
|
Musica Amphion |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311971260 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00842977036473 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDBLLT93647 |
| Cat.#: |
|
93647 |
| Period: |
|
Baroque |
| Genre: |
|
Classical |
| Release type: |
|
Boxed Set (7-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
You could hardly ask for a better deal than this: all of Henry Purcell's chamber music (including the harpsichord suites, three- and four-part sonatas, and fantasias for strings) in new recordings by the top-notch period-instrument ensemble Musica Amphion, packaged with brief but thorough liner notes in a conveniently-formatted and budget-priced box set. Classical collections with even the most limited budgets and most constricted shelf space would do well to snap this one up. (RA) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $16.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Danceries |
| Label: |
|
Claves (dist. Albany)
|
|
Composer:
|
|
Claude Gervaise |
| Performer: |
|
Ensemble Musica Antiqua; Novus Brass Quartet / Christian Mendoze |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311833940 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00769931961629 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDCLAECL509616 |
| Cat.#: |
|
50-9616 |
| Period: |
|
Renaissance |
| Genre: |
|
Classical |
| Release type: |
|
Reissue |
| Comments: |
|
Originally issued in 1997, this fine collection includes four dance suites and one pavane by the French Renaissance composer Claude Gervaise. The dance suite was a new musical form at the time these pieces were written, one that caused mild consternation amongs the upper classes at its blending of courtly and popular elements -- bt to modern ears, this music is a pure delight. Recommended to all early music collections. (RA) |
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
L'Esperit de la Contrareforma |
| Label: |
|
La Mà de Guido (dist. Albany)
|
|
Composer:
|
|
Various Composers |
| Performer: |
|
Lluís Vich Vocalis |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311327937 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00849757040057 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDLMDGLMG4005 |
| Cat.#: |
|
LMG4005 |
| Period: |
|
Renaissance |
| Genre: |
|
Classical M |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
The anti-Protestant counter-reformation of the 16th century yielded more than just doctrinal controversy -- it also resulted in some of the most glorious liturgical and devotional music of the period, including these works by Victoria, Kerle, Palestrina, Byrd, and Gallus (among them Kerle's defiantly splendid Missa Regina Caeli). The Lluís Vich Vocalis ensemble performs them with a rich and rather dark-hued intensity, creating an album that is really quite special and is highly recommended to all classical collections. (RA) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $17.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Solo for Voice 58: 18 Microtonal Ragas |
| Label: |
|
Other Minds (dist. Allegro)
|
|
Composer:
|
|
John Cage |
| Performer: |
|
Amelia Cuni |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311677407 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00684390101020 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDOTMD1010 |
| Cat.#: |
|
OM 10120-2 |
| Period: |
|
20th Century |
| Genre: |
|
Classical |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Amelia Cuni is that rarest of artists, a female singer in the Indian dhrupad tradition. This recording marks the world premiere of John Cage's Solo for Voice 58, and is released in honor of the late composer's 95th birthdaay. Cuni's voice is glorious, and she deserves most of the credit for the music's interest as well, since this is one of Cage's famous "chance" compositions and thus relies almost entirely on the intuition and creativity of the performer for its musical content. Cuni is accompanied expertly by two percussionists and one wielder of electronics; several tracks feature her voice overdubbed on itself. (RA) |
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Sonata No. 4 In E Flat Major, Op. 7; Sonata No. 2 In B Flat Minor, Op. 36; Sonata No. 0 |
| Label: |
|
Centaur (dist. Qualiton)
|
|
Composer:
|
|
Ludwig van Beethoven; Sergei Rachmaninoff; Kaikhosru Sorabji |
| Performer: |
|
Soheil Nasseri |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311782484 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00044747289427 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDCENT2894 |
| Cat.#: |
|
CRC 2894 |
| Period: |
|
Various |
| Genre: |
|
Classical |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Soheil Nasseri is known for his prolific and widely varied coverage of the piano repertoire, and his choices for this recording do not disappoint. The often neglected op. 7 sonata of Beethoven is the last one written in the traditional Classical style. Mr. Nasseri executes this lighthearted almost pastoral 4-movement sonata brilliantly, truly capturing its essence. The Rachmaninoff sonata contrasts nicely, with its thicker textures and darker, more Romantic mood. Mr. Nasseri has the technique for this highly difficult piece but I miss the heavy-handed bombast and sonorousness with which other pianists execute Rachmaninoff. The world premiere recording of the Sonata no. 0 of Kaikhosru Sorabji, from 1917, is the most "modern" of the pieces, technically very difficult. Nasseri also likes to champion works of little known composers. Quite lengthy for a single-movement piece at nearly 25 minutes, presumably it was recorded because it is one of the shorter works of this composer who wrote pieces of mammoth length and technical difficulty (one sonata requiring over 5 hours to perform!). Highly recommended. (MJB) |
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Three Sonatas for Violin & Piano |
| Label: |
|
Centaur (dist. Qualiton)
|
|
Composer:
|
|
Edvard Grieg |
| Performer: |
|
Duo Gillham-Iinuma |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311782446 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00044747287324 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDCENT2873 |
| Cat.#: |
|
CRC 2873 |
| Period: |
|
Romantic |
| Genre: |
|
Classical |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
A distinctly Norwegian flavor with the tried and true combination of violin and piano. These three sonatas (op. 8, 13, 45) are some of Grieg's strongest works; each showcases both his humanity and his gift for melody. Although op. 45 is the most often played, the other two sonatas are its equal in every respect. David Gillham and Chiharu Iinuma ensemble very well together and the performances on this recording are stellar. Highly recommended. (MJB) |
|
|
| COUNTRY/FOLK |
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Stronger |
| Label: |
|
Yep Roc Records
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Carlene Carter |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311863107 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00634457218321 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDYP 2183 |
| Cat.#: |
|
YEP-2183 |
| Genre: |
|
Country & Western |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
After a rocky decade or so marked by drug abuse, jail time, and the death of her mother June Carter Cash, Carlene’s back with her best album in years. Aptly titled Stronger, this new release features her trademark blend of country and rock, floating on her great vocals and some excellent playing and arranging from multi-instrumentalist John McFee. It’s an impressive set of well-written songs from Carlene’s pen, including a blistering remake of her classic theme song “I’m So Cool,” originally recorded on her 1980 masterpiece Musical Shapes. Great stuff from a true American original – highly recommended. (GH) |
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Lantana |
| Label: |
|
Signature Sounds
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Caroline Herring |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311874974 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00701237201023 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDSIGS2010 |
| Cat.#: |
|
SIG 2010 |
| Genre: |
|
Folk Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
It’s hard not to like Herring’s music. Her rich, unusual soprano has a gothic sound to it, where Mississippi and Austin mix together in a stew of country and folk flavors. She does mostly originals, except for the traditional “All the Pretty Little Horses,” covering topics such as love, marriage, and children. But she gets the award for sheer guts with a traditional-style murder ballad about Susan Smith. This is pretty far from mainstream country, and it’s powerful stuff. (JW) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $17.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
The Geography of Light |
| Label: |
|
Philo Records/Rounder Records
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Carrie Newcomer |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311816059 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00011671125329 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECD116 7112532 |
| Cat.#: |
|
11671-1253-2 |
| Genre: |
|
Folk Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Some approach singer-songwriters with trepidation. There’s a probability of self-indulgence and navel gazing. But that’s hardly a problem here. Newcomer’s strong, self-assured alto and guitar take her through fourteen of her own finely crafted songs, with the help of a bunch of friends. She presents us with an enjoyable mix of ballads, sprightly humorous tunes, and thoughtful observations on the world, all sweetly played and sung. She’s a bit folk, a bit country, a bit pop, and a lot of fun. (JW) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $17.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Sundirtwater |
| Label: |
|
Compass
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Waifs |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311888216 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00766397447223 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDCOMS974472 |
| Cat.#: |
|
7 4472 2 |
| Genre: |
|
Folk Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
This Australian trio and independent roots band seem to be making a name for themselves, their previous release having sold quite well. This one should, too. Combining country, blues, and a touch of jazz for a unique approach, they offer up a good mix of songs with a slightly rough edge. They even sound authentic when singing about South Dakota. The mix of male and female vocals gives them a variety some other groups don’t have. This one should be a favorite for alt.country and roots music fans. (JW) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $16.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Complete Recorded Works, Vol. 1 (1927-29) |
| Label: |
|
Document (dist. Allegro)
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Blind Alfred Reed |
| ISBN: |
|
9786304924792 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00714298802221 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDAGRODOC8022 |
| Cat.#: |
|
8022 |
| Genre: |
|
Country & Western |
| Release type: |
|
Compilation |
| Comments: |
|
Blind Alfred Reed was a songwriter, singer, and fiddler from West Virginia who recorded several sides for the Victor record label beginning in 1927 at the famous Bristol sessions. Reed recorded four songs at those sessions, but was brought later in 1927 with his son, Arville, to Camden, New Jersey, to record more tracks (including a solo track of Arville playing and singing “The Telephone Girl”). Two final sessions recorded in New York in 1929 complete Reed’s recorded catalog and include the frequently covered Reed composition, “How Can a Poor Man Stand Such Times and Live.” Reed’s songs are moralistic and musically very true to their period. The transfers from the original recordings are well-done and allow listeners to appreciate his clear singing and obvious instrumental prowess. (CLHD) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $15.00 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
| Title: |
|
Take Me Home |
| Label: |
|
Indidog Records
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Biscuit Burners |
| UPC: |
|
703034508329 |
| Cat.#: |
|
IDR5083-2 |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
North Carolina’s Biscuit Burners create unique, memorable, and captivating music, imparting a keen original spin on traditional forms to forge their self-styled “fiery mountain music.” Driven by the superlative resonator guitar work of Billy Cardine and bassist Mary Lucey’s haunting vocals, this band isn’t afraid to mix Indian folk forms with Appalachian material in their music, while writing original lyrics that dip into such diverse American icons as Annie Oakley and Edward Abbey. The first time I heard this band I was completely mesmerized, and they still have that effect now. Very highly recommended. (GH) |
|
|
| JAZZ |
|
 |
| |
| $24.99 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Blue Note - A Story of Modern Jazz [DVD] |
| Label: |
|
Euroarts
|
|
Artist:
|
|
|
| ISBN: |
|
9786311826713 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00880242056788 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BEDDEUAR2005678 |
| Cat.#: |
|
2005678 |
| Genre: |
|
Jazz |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Visually, this is a very attractive documentary, and it includes some rare and valuable footage of jazz icons including Bud Powell, Thelonious Monk, Max Roach and Dizzy Gillespie. But the interviews are mostly banal and the film feels rather shapeless overall -- what insights we gain into the history of America's greatest jazz label emerge almost accidentally. A more systematic history of Blue Note would be more useful, though this film is far from useless and jazz buffs will find it enjoyable. (RA) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $22.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Miles from India |
| Label: |
|
Times Square Records (dist. Koch)
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Various Artists |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311987537 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00822545180821 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDTSQR1808 |
| Cat.#: |
|
FQT-CD-1818 |
| Genre: |
|
Jazz |
| Release type: |
|
New (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
Miles From India pairs an elite crew of Miles Davis alumni with Indian jazz and classical musicians playing inspired arrangements from the Miles catalog. Some arrangements are startlingly original – “So What,” for instance, opens and closes with a flurry of Indian chanting and percussion, surrounding a blistering duet between pianist Chick Corea and bassist Ron Carter over a layer of Indian percussion. Most arrangements incorporate Indian instrumentation into a traditional acoustic or electric jazz mix, making this set consistently intriguing. Miles alums include saxophonists Gary Bartz and Dave Liebman, guitarists Mike Stern and John McLaughlin, drummer Jimmy Cobb, and bassists Michael Henderson and Marcus Miller, spanning five decades of Miles Davis bands. Recommended. (GH) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $16.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
First Flight |
| Label: |
|
Summit
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Pete McGuinness Jazz Orchestra |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311230190 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00099402481920 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDSUM 481 |
| Cat.#: |
|
DCD 481 |
| Genre: |
|
Jazz |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
McGuinness is no neophyte, although this is his first release as a solo bandleader. The trombonist/singer/composer/arranger has put together a force of sixteen, and most of the songs are his, with a few changeups, such as “Smile” thrown in for variety. Of course, the trombone is in front, but he leaves lots of room for other solos, especially sax, piano, and flugelhorn. The emphasis on lower brass presents a deep, rich palette, and the arrangements are very warm and satisfying. This is a good one for contemporary big band fans. (JW) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $16.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Ted Kooshian's Standard Orbit Quartet |
| Label: |
|
Summit
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Ted Kooshian |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311818909 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00099402495927 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDSUM 495 |
| Cat.#: |
|
DCD 495 |
| Genre: |
|
Jazz Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
If you like your jazz fun and quirky, you can’t get better than this set of improvisations on television themes and rock songs by the pianist for Eddie Palmero’s band, accompanied by friends on sax, bass and drums. From “Captain Kangaroo” and “The Simpsons” to Led Zeppelin’s “Black Dog,” the group’s infectious playfulness is just the thing for contemporary jazz fans tired of the dense and intense. They mix styles with abandon and interest never flags. Kick back and enjoy. (JW) |
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Twilight World |
| Label: |
|
Concord Jazz
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Marian McPartland |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311866887 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00888072305281 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDCONJ30528 |
| Cat.#: |
|
CCD-30528 |
| Genre: |
|
Jazz |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Another exquisite set of piano jazz from this remarkable woman probably shouldn’t surprise anybody. Here, she and buddies Gary Mazzarappi (bass) and Glenn Davis (drums) run the gamut from Irving Berlin to Ornette Coleman and make it all make sense. At 89, she plays free jazz just as easily as ballads with a classical feel. Some of it bops, all of it swings, but the atmosphere throughout is gentle and slightly melancholy. This is a highly appealing listen for piano jazz fans. (JW) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $15.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Songs For A New Century |
| Label: |
|
Origin
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Jessica Williams |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311879917 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00805558250729 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDORGN82507 |
| Cat.#: |
|
82507 |
| Genre: |
|
Jazz Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
The solo piano music of Jessica Williams is laid-back and contemplative, spiritual in nature. She is at the same time technically flawless and subdued, almost sad. An enjoyable set of jazz arrangements best enjoyed at night with low lighting. An excellent choice for any jazz collection. Recommended. (MJB) |
|
|
| ROCK/POP |
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Golden Delicious |
| Label: |
|
ATO (dist. Red)
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Mike Doughty |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311837689 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00880882161224 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDATOR88088216122 |
| Cat.#: |
|
0052 |
| Genre: |
|
Popular Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
When avant-hip-hop/post-electro funksters Soul Coughing broke up and frontman Mike Doughty picked up an acoustic guitar, there was good reason for concern -- that's not the kind of development that usually bodes well. But Doughty hasn't lost any of his love of quirky rhythmic wordplay, and on his own he's been able to expand his repertoire to include straight-up rockers and more contemplative, folkier material along with the stripped-down funk of his previous project. On Golden Delicious he comes fully into his own, with hooky songs that stand easily with one foot in folk-rock and another in a sort beatnik-y hip hop (check out the sheer sensuous pleasure of the lyrics to "More Bacon Than the Pan Can Handle"). And you can practically sing along with "27 Jennifers." Mike Doughty: he's not just for hipsters anymore. (RA) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $15.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Do You Like Rock Music? |
| Label: |
|
Rough Trade
|
|
Artist:
|
|
British Sea Power |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311817056 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00805551050722 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDRTDE10507B |
| Cat.#: |
|
10507 |
| Genre: |
|
Popular Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Do you Like Rock Music is British Sea Power’s third studio album. This album is one of the most beautiful collections of alternative rock that I have heard in some time; it caught my attention from the first track. The music itself isn’t necessarily groundbreaking or even particularly original, but the arrangements and lyrics combine to create something moving and occasionally haunting, while the guitar riffs are heavy enough to justify its claim to being "rock music." Recommended to those who love rock music and even those who may not. (PB) |
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Accelerate |
| Label: |
|
Warner/Reprise/Maverick
|
|
Artist:
|
|
R.E.M. |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311947586 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00093624988588 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDWARN418620 |
| Cat.#: |
|
418620 |
| Genre: |
|
Popular Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Accelerate is a welcome return for Michael Stipe and company. This is REM at its most familiar, with a distinctly fresh sound at the same time. The songs are weighty only by the depth of Stipe's lyrics and the messages that they contain; otherwise the sound is consistent and energetic and will remind fans of earlier efforts and their established sound. The bouncy groove of "Mr. Richards," and the radio-friendly "Supernatural Superserious" are two standouts; however the album as a whole is consistently listenable as Stipe's distinctive vocals and Peter Buck's fuzzy guitars create an overarching intensity and transcendence that make rock music...rock. This doesn’t sound like a band with 28 years under its belt, and I mean that in a good way. Highly recommended. (PB) |
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Heavy Metal Box |
| Label: |
|
Rhino Records
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Various Artists |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311645161 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00081227997182 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDRHIN264444 |
| Cat.#: |
|
264444 |
| Genre: |
|
Rock, Alternative Music |
| Release type: |
|
Boxed Set (4-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
This set does a good job of picking representative tracks from many eras of heavy metal music. Beginning in the late-1960s with bands such as Iron Butterfly, Deep Purple, and Uriah Heep that many might not think of when discussing heavy metal, the collection quickly steers into more expected territory by including tracks by Judas Priest, Kiss, Scorpions, and Iron Maiden. This compilation does a good job of including a single representative track from a wide range of bands (particularly artists from the late 1970s and the 1980s) and would be most useful as an introduction to the genre. Fans of heavy metal will undoubtedly wonder why certain bands and tracks are omitted (for instance there is no track from the Ozzy Osbourne-era Black Sabbath) and feel that some inclusions were originally too targeted to a commercial audience to be “heavy.” The cut off date of 1991 is probably a bit artificial, too, since new metal bands and fans are still being spawned today. These new fans will find much to enjoy and explore further in this 4-disc set and the informative liner notes will assist them in making a good start. (CLHD) |
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Hey Eugene! |
| Label: |
|
Heinz (dist. Allegro)
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Pink Martini |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311131381 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00723721289454 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDAGROHNZ3 |
| Cat.#: |
|
3 |
| Genre: |
|
Popular Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
This 2007 release from Oregon’s lounge music revivalists, Pink Martini, successfully combines a wide range of international influences, expressive singing, excellent instrumental work, and interesting orchestration. Latin influences are particularly evident, but French, Russian, Japanese, and Arabic strains can also be identified as can the influence of big band jazz, 1940s-era Hollywood musicals, rock, rhythm and blues, and cabaret music. Pink Martini brings all these diverse elements together into a very natural-sounding stew that doesn’t seem the least bit forced or jarring as the group trots musically around the world. |
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Pictures at an Exhibition |
| Label: |
|
Shout! Factory
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Emerson Lake & Palmer |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311029879 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00826663104929 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDSOTF31049 |
| Cat.#: |
|
31049 |
| Genre: |
|
Popular Music |
| Release type: |
|
Reissue |
| Comments: |
|
The art rock music of 1970s supergroup, Emerson, Lake, and Palmer, like all art rock, never appealed to everyone, but certainly made for interesting listening for those willing to accept that not all rock music is for dancing. The 2007 reissue of ELP’s interpretation of Modest Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition may not inspire much dancing, but it will engage the minds of listeners. Comparing this adventurous rock arrangement with a recording of either the original solo piano arrangement or a later classical orchestration is an interesting exercise that could encourage new listeners familiar with either classical music or rock to explore the other genre. The transfers are well done and while listeners may wish for more substantial liner notes, this reissue will satisfy those familiar with the original 1972 release and those new to art rock alike. |
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
BIPPP: French Synth Wave 1979-85 |
| Label: |
|
Everloving
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Various Artists |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311817339 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00181229000825 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDEVRL900082 |
| Cat.#: |
|
EVE020 |
| Genre: |
|
Popular Music |
| Release type: |
|
Compilation |
| Comments: |
|
The precursors to Daft Punk, Air and Stereo Total can be heard on this compilation of synthesizer-based post-punk and New Wave from France. “Terroriste” by Vox Dei sounds like Joy Division even before the detatched baritone vocals chime in. Other tracks bear more of a Kraftwerk or Gary Numan stamp. The band TGV pay homage to the French high-speed train on “Partie 1.” The synths make the songs very clearly of their era, but the works hold up well and aren’t mere retro novelties. (MC) |
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Funplex |
| Label: |
|
Astralwerks
|
|
Artist:
|
|
B-52s |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311950593 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00094922873071 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDATWR28730 |
| Cat.#: |
|
094922873071 B52 28730 |
| Genre: |
|
Popular Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
The B-52s' first album in 16 years is ripe with the formula that made them so successful and so much fun. Keith Strickland’s punchy guitar riffs drive the beat, while Kate Pierson and Cindy Wilson’s tight harmonies serve as a response to Fred Schnieder’s snappy, nonsensical aphorisms – it all adds up to the same giddiness that made them so popular back in the early 1980s. The songs are silly, the dance beat’s vintage 80s B-52’s, and the whole thing’s just plain fun. And when you hear them toss “shimmy shimmy” around on “Hot Corner,” well, sure, it’s a blatant tip of the bouffant to “Love Shack,” but who cares? They can still dance this mess around. (GH) |
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Rain |
| Label: |
|
Rykodisc
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Joe Jackson |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311765883 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00014431092121 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDRYKO310921 |
| Cat.#: |
|
RCD 10921 |
| Genre: |
|
Popular Music |
| Release type: |
|
New (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
Joe Jackson’s latest disc is full of driving piano-based songs with strong melodies. The rest of the band, bass and drums, are strictly supportive and never intrusive. Stripped of unnecessary flourishes, it is nonetheless fully fleshed pop with the occasional jazz inflection. Nearly three decades into his career, Jackson’s lyrical outlook is decidedly adult, but he still has something to say. (MC) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $13.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Lust Lust Lust |
| Label: |
|
Vice (dist. Ada)
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Raveonettes |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311812570 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00883888000221 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDVICE80002 |
| Cat.#: |
|
VCA80002-2 |
| Genre: |
|
Popular Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Sharin Foo and Sune Rose Wagner are astonishingly loud for a duo, but the Danish band conjures up quite a racket on their fourth album. The distortion-drenched Lust Lust Lust continues their homage to the Jesus and Mary Chain and surf rock, accented by Foo’s coolly detached vocal delivery. The opening track, “Aly, Walk with Me” is particularly blistering, and “You Want the Candy” drips with lascivious metaphor. However, neither the songwriting nor the melody lines are robust enough to stave off eventual monotony. (MC) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $18.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
The Odd Couple |
| Label: |
|
Q/Atlantic
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Gnarls Barkley |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311947432 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00075678994692 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDATL 450236 |
| Cat.#: |
|
460236 |
| Genre: |
|
Popular Music |
| Release type: |
|
|
| Comments: |
|
Gnarls Barkley is back with another album of twisted journeys, intoned by the inimitable voice of Cee-Lo Green serenely laid across the serenely soulful beats and slick production of Danger Mouse. If 2006’s St. Elsewhere was the colorful debut of an otherworldly characteristic sound, The Odd Couple finds our heroes exploring even darker lyrical territory, with more room in the background music to allow exploration of how these two are crafting such a distinctive sound. (AJ) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $18.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Consolers Of The Lonely |
| Label: |
|
Warner/Reprise/Maverick
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Raconteurs |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311984406 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00093624987314 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDWARN456060 |
| Cat.#: |
|
456060 |
| Genre: |
|
Popular Music |
| Release type: |
|
|
| Comments: |
|
Say what you will about The White Stripes, Jack White’s other main project is fast becoming its superior, both in conception and execution. The Raconteurs’ ensemble catches your attention right from the get-go, evoking some sort of evil mixture containing Led Zeppelin, The Ramones, and Sticky Fingers-era Rolling Stones. The production on this album is remarkably crisp, especially when one considers the 70’s throwback vibe the band is so effective at creating. (AJ) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $14.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
These Are The Good Times People |
| Label: |
|
Fugitive
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Presidents of the United States of America |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311887394 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
05099951884024 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDFUG 18840 |
| Cat.#: |
|
18840 |
| Genre: |
|
Popular Music |
| Release type: |
|
|
| Comments: |
|
Anyone with a pulse in the 1990s should remember the sheer energy emanating from The Presidents of the United States of America, evident on their debut and subsequent Drew Carey Show theme song “Cleveland Rocks”. This album finds them exploring fairly familiar territory, essentially a punky/alterna-grunge milieu with songs about insects and other non sequiturs. However, the implementation of their well-worn sound is what draws you in, even if it’s really nothing new or deep. (AJ) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $18.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Watershed |
| Label: |
|
Nonesuch
|
|
Artist:
|
|
k.d. lang |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311758700 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00075597999082 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDNONE110460 |
| Cat.#: |
|
110460 |
| Genre: |
|
Popular Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Watershed is k. d. lang’s first album of original material since 2000, and it finds the singer/songwriter refining the style that’s made her so successful since her smash 1992 album Ingénue, when she replaced her early twang with a heavy dose of torch. Watershed successfully combines elements of pre- and post- Ingénue, with a series of beautiful, somewhat torchy songs, enriched with some punchy guitar and instrumentation that hints at her older twangy material. All told, a rich, mature recording from this amazing singer. (GH) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $18.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Sessions |
| Label: |
|
K7/EMI
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Carl Craig |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311829264 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00730003722424 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDK7RC37224 |
| Cat.#: |
|
K7224CDD |
| Genre: |
|
Electronica |
| Release type: |
|
Compilation (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
Carl Craig is a true legend in the electronic music world, one of the prime movers of Detroit techno’s second wave. Until now it has been hard for those who are not dancefloor aficionados to follow his career, though his Fabric 25 mix CD did give him some visibility as a DJ. But he’s much more important as a producer than as a DJ, and Sessions acts as an excellent career overview for his production work, offering remixes of tracks by other artists as well as tracks he issued under his own name and also numerous aliases. Recommended for libraries that want to stock some music for patrons who would like to hear what’s played in dance clubs without actually going inside one. (SA) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $15.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
The Golden Age |
| Label: |
|
Merge (dist. ADA)
|
|
Artist:
|
|
American Music Club |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311814086 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00673855030920 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDMERG50309 |
| Cat.#: |
|
MRG309 |
| Genre: |
|
Popular Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
When American Music Club reunited after a hiatus of almost ten years, it was to release 2004’s Love Songs for Patriots, an extravagant and dramatic record and one of their strongest ever. This follow-up includes only the core of the band, songwriter Mark Eitzel and guitarist Vudi, with a new rhythm section, and it is an altogether quieter affair. But the songs are as strong as ever, and the power inside them slowly makes itself known through the more subtle arrangements. (SA) |
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Devotion |
| Label: |
|
Carpark/EMI
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Beach House |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311866825 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00677517004229 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDCRPK70042 |
| Cat.#: |
|
70042 |
| Genre: |
|
Popular Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
A Baltimore duo featuring Victoria Legrand’s darkly sauntering, velvet vocals and Alex Scally’s keyboards with old school drum machine sounds, this Beach House would appear to be deserted during a bleak winter except for lovely ghosts waiting to draw you in with lilting, seductive melodies and lush orchestrations. What does it sound like? Perhaps if Chan Marshall were a swing-era torch singer backed by This Mortal Coil. Exotic sounding, and so unique, it is difficult to think of anything to compare them to. (TB) |
|
|
| WORLD/ETHNIC |
|
 |
| |
| $26.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Nigeria Special: Modern Highlife, Afrosounds & Nigerian Blues |
| Label: |
|
Soundway (dist. Forced Exposure)
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Various Artists |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311609798 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00827565029525 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDSNWY9 |
| Cat.#: |
|
B000WM8IAU |
| Genre: |
|
World Music |
| Release type: |
|
Compilation (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
If you think of Nigerian music at all, you probably think of Fela’s Afrobeat and King Sunny Ade’s juju. This compilation gathers records made in the early 70s, when both of those artists were active, but the music doesn’t generally sound much like either artist, and all of it is attributed to less famous names. And great names they are too -- Celestine Ukwu & His Philosophers National, The Funkees, The Semi Colon, Sir Victor Uwaifo & His Melody Maestros, St. Augustine & His Rovers Dance Band, The Nigerian Police Force Band 'the Force 7', Dan Satch & His Atomic 8 Dance Band Of Aba, George Akaeze & His Augmented Hits, Shadow Abraham With Mono Mono Friends – all previously obscure, all leaving behind incredible music, which we should thank the people at Soundway Records for bringing to light. The liner notes give some useful background on the scene that created it, but you don’t have to know anything about this terrific music to enjoy it. (SA) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $15.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Iron & Diamonds |
| Label: |
|
Sugar Hill
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Gibson Brothers |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311920855 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00015891403922 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDSUGA4039 |
| Cat.#: |
|
SUG-CD-4039 |
| Genre: |
|
Bluegrass |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Brother duets have a long and venerable history in old-time and bluegrass music, but the Gibson Brothers aren't your typical brother duet. In terms of instrumentation, they stick to acoustic verities, and they sing with the kind of tight harmony that made earlier groups like the Louvin Brothers and the Blue Sky Boys famous. But their song structures owe as much to contemporary folk and country music as they do to traditional mountain styles, and the result is an intriguing blend of old-school and new-school. (RA) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $19.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Cult Cargo: Belize City Boil Up |
| Label: |
|
Numero
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Various Artists |
| ISBN: |
|
9786309732064 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00656605881027 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDBLOD58810 |
| Cat.#: |
|
006 |
| Genre: |
|
World Music |
| Release type: |
|
Compilation |
| Comments: |
|
This is a charming collection of pop, soul, funk, reggae and calypso from the often-neglected Caribbean country of Belize. That neglect -- in musical terms, at least -- may stem from the fact that Belize has never generated a really distinctive musical style of its own, but this disc demonstrates that local variants of established styles were fully developed and chugging along nicely in the 1970s and 1980s. There's even some quite respectable disco on offer here. Nice. (RA) |
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
In The Name of Love: Africa Celebrates U2 |
| Label: |
|
Shout! Factory
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Various Artists |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311948620 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00826663106084 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDSOTF31060 |
| Cat.#: |
|
826663-10608 |
| Genre: |
|
World/Rock |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
One of the coolest things about this pan-African tribute to U2 is the way it renders some of the songs unrecognizable: Ba Cissoko's rendition of "Sunday Bloody Sunday" is eerie and attractive in ways completely foreign to the original version; ditto Angelique Kidjo's take on "Mysterious Ways." Les Nubians' version of "With or Without You" is a bit more true to the original, but not by much, and the Soweto Gospel Choir takes "Pride (in the Name of Love)" to a place U2 can hardly have imagined. Excellent. (RA) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $17.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Cafe Noir |
| Label: |
|
Tumi (dist. Allegro)
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Papa Noel |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311034934 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
05022627014128 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDAGROTUM141 |
| Cat.#: |
|
TUM141 |
| Genre: |
|
World Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Another example of Congolese musicians paying tribute to the Cuban roots of their music. Papa Noel is one of the grandfathers of rumba, and here he plays with African and Cuban musicians to create a sweet and mostly acoustic synthesis of the chicken and the egg. The subtitles of the tracks act as footnotes that detail the various styles – for example, Central African Rhythm, Afro-Cuban Son, Classical African Rumba, Merengue Zoukous, etc. – but I doubt that anyone will think about those details when these gently swinging rhythms take hold. For more of this kind of music, see also records by the group called Kekele that Noel plays and records with as well. (SA) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $15.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Mujer De Cabaret |
| Label: |
|
iASO
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Puerto Plata |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311641194 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00852007001111 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDIASO700111 |
| Cat.#: |
|
iASCD2 |
| Genre: |
|
Latin |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
A delightful and technically brilliant live set from Dominican singer and guitarist Puerto Plata, with a small accompanying ensemble. Plata wears his virtuosity lightly, and all most listeners will notice is the dancing loveliness of his songs. Very highly recommended. (RA) |
|
© CD HotList 2004 |
