|
August 2008
Look for "Rick's Pick" 
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| CLASSICAL |
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| Title: |
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Suonate da camera a tre, due violini e violone e cembalo (Op. 1) |
| Label: |
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Glossa (dist. Qualiton)
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Composer:
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Antonio Vivaldi |
| Performer: |
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Enrico Gatti; Aurora Ensemble |
| ISBN: |
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9786311954782 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00675754006372 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDGLSA921203 |
| Cat.#: |
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921203 |
| Period: |
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Baroque |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
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The twelve trio sonatas that comprise Vivaldi's first published set have a remarkable variety of moods and textures from the very lyrical to the very flashy and virtuosic. Although this debut oeuvre is sparsely performed compared to his L'Estro Armonico and other collections, the listener is left with no doubt as to Vivaldi's skill and genius as a composer. The performances are impeccably precise and crystalline with incredible musicality and animation. The robust sound of this ensemble is a real gift to Italian baroque string music. In addition, the accompanying booklet contains a lengthy essay by the British musicologist and Vivaldi scholar Michael Talbot. As a package, this performance of opus 1 is well worth the price and is highly recommended for any sound recording collection. (MJB) |
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| Title: |
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Complete Keyboard Works |
| Label: |
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Deux-Elles (dist. Albany)
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Composer:
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Orlando Gibbons |
| Performer: |
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Daniel-Ben Pienaar |
| ISBN: |
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9786312203964 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00666283112627 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDDELSDX1126 |
| Cat.#: |
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DXL 1126 |
| Period: |
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Renaissance |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
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This is an unusual release for a couple of reasons: first, it focuses on the keyboard music of a composer who is primarily known for his choral and consort music; second, it is performed on the modern piano rather than the virginal. The rightness of both choices is blissfully borne out by this brilliantly played and highly enjoyable disc -- here's hoping Pienaar continues to explore the music of this period. (RA) |
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| $8.99 |
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| Title: |
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Piano Music |
| Label: |
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Naxos
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Composer:
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John Tavener |
| Performer: |
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Ralph Van Raat |
| ISBN: |
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9786312149170 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00747313044276 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDNAXO8570442 |
| Cat.#: |
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8.570442 |
| Period: |
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Contemporary |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Expect demand for this disc from Sir John Tavener's large cult of fans, some of whom may be a bit taken aback by the astringent modernism of the earliest work offered here. Later pieces incorporate the mystical and reflective elements that have made his choral and orchestral work so well-loved around the world. (And our library colleagues may wish to note that two of the pieces are dedicated to his cats.) Ralph van Raat's playing is excellent. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Piano Sonatinas, Opp. 55 and 88 |
| Label: |
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Naxos
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Composer:
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Friedrich Kuhlau |
| Performer: |
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Jeno Jando |
| ISBN: |
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9786312149026 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00747313071074 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDNAXO8570710 |
| Cat.#: |
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8.570710 |
| Period: |
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Classical |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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This is a thoroughly charming collection of two sets of sonatinas by a composer who was one of the finest pedagogues in history, and whose talent for creating pieces that both teach and delight remains unsurpassed. A lesser pianist might have tried to impose romantic grandeur or elaborate dynamism, but Jando plays these pieces with a simple gentleness and grace that does Kuhlau the honor of leaving his music unobscured. Very highly recommended. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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The Berlin Concert |
| Label: |
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Telarc
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Composer:
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Johann Sebastian Bach; Philip Lasser; Ludwig van Beethoven |
| Performer: |
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Simone Dinnerstein |
| ISBN: |
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9786312131298 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00089408071522 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDTELA80715 |
| Cat.#: |
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CD-80715 |
| Period: |
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Various |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Simone Dinnerstein has quickly established herself as a major pianist, and this live program illustrates why: she is equally convincing as an intepreter of lightly dancing Bach suites, of darker and more complex modern variations on baroque material, and of Beethoven's most challenging and emotionally draining piano music. Her range and versatility are matched by a palpable joy in playing and a brilliant and sensitive dynamism. Very highly recommended. (RA) |
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| $16.99 |
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| Title: |
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Partite, Sonate e Sinfonie |
| Label: |
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Naive
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Composer:
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Frantisek Ignac Antonin Tuma |
| Performer: |
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Concerto Italiano / Rinaldo Alessandrini |
| ISBN: |
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9786312149200 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00709861304363 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDNAIVOP30436 |
| Cat.#: |
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OP 30436 |
| Period: |
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Classical |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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The music on this disc is lovely, though not necessarily world-changing. What make it particularly interesting are both the fact that it was written by an almost forgotten Bohemian composer of the early classical period, and the fact that this particular composer wrote in such a variety of styles. Specialist collections should definitely acquire this album; generalist collections should consider it an optional purchase. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Quartets/Quintet |
| Label: |
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Neos (dist. Qualiton)
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Composer:
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Charles Uzor |
| Performer: |
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Wolfgang Meyer; Carmina Quartett ; Gitarrenensemble Quasi Fantasia |
| ISBN: |
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9786311955178 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00675754005306 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDNEOS10714 |
| Cat.#: |
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Neos 10714 |
| Period: |
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Contemporary |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Nigerian-born Charles Uzor's musical style in these pieces is avant-garde with elements of much older, more primitive cultures and references to a ballade by Guillaume de Machaut blended in, not juxtaposed but in an integrated and inclusive way. The end result is very listenable music that regularly shocks the listener in a pleasant way. The three works on this world-premiere recording are a quintet for clarinet and string quartet with tape, a string quartet on Shakespeare's sonnet 65 with the text taped and spoken by one male and one female voice, and a guitar quartet. The musicians are extremely competent and render the performances of these pieces with great clarity and sensitivity. Three stellar contributions to the chamber music repertoire. Recommended for all collections. (MJB) |
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| Title: |
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Voices of trees |
| Label: |
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Origin Classical
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Composer:
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Rachel Matthews; Joan Tower; Libby Larsen; Priaulx Rainier |
| Performer: |
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Florie Rothenberg; Rachel Matthews |
| ISBN: |
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9786312113690 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00805553300320 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDOCLS33003 |
| Cat.#: |
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OC 33003 |
| Period: |
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Contemporary |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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An enjoyable collection of modern works for clarinet and piano by women composers. The Joan Tower "Fantasy" is one of those gems that music-lovers run across occasionally that makes them fall in love with music all over again. Libby Larsen's "Dancing solo" for solo clarinet is great fun for the listener but technically difficult for the player, a very sunny piece that requires a lot of work to make it shine. Priaulx Rainier's suite is the most serious compositionally, a five-movement arch form reminiscent of Bartok. Rachel Matthews, the very talented pianist on this album, wrote the piece that gives the album its title. "Voices of Trees" is a well-written piece of program music that evokes for me the mood of a summer Sunday morning with a light breeze blowing. Highly recommended for all collections.(MJB) |
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| $19.98 |
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| Title: |
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Wagner Paraphrases & Other Piano Pieces |
| Label: |
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Hungaroton
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Composer:
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Hugo Wolf |
| Performer: |
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Emese Virag |
| ISBN: |
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9786311954805 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00675754006440 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDHUGR32466 |
| Cat.#: |
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HCD 32466 |
| Period: |
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Romantic |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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The pieces on this world-premiere recording are some of Wolf's earliest completed works, dating from around 1875-1880. In addition to the massive paraphrases of Wagner's Meistersinger and Valkyrie are the lengthy Variations op. 2, the Humoresque, and two short pieces under the collective title Aus der Kinderzeit. The opera paraphrases are not virtuosic displays like Liszt's transcriptions but more intimate like parlor pieces. The Variations is Wolf's earliest completed piece (at age 15) and shows strong Germanic influences including Beethoven. All these pieces demonstrate the key role the piano played in the creative life of this introverted and shy genius. Recommended for more comprehensive or research collections. (MJB) |
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| Title: |
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Wind Concertos, Vol. 2 |
| Label: |
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CPO
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Composer:
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Georg Philipp Telemann |
| Performer: |
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La Stagione Frankfurt; Camerata Koln / Michael Schneider |
| ISBN: |
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9786312149187 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00761203726721 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDCPO 777267 |
| Cat.#: |
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777 267-2 |
| Period: |
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Baroque |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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You can't go wrong with a collection of Telemann wind concerti, especially not when performed by the excellent composite ensemble comprised of members of both La Stagione Frankfurt and Camerata Koln. Like the first volume in the series, this one consists of a nice variety of concerti for solo wind instruments including recorder, horns, oboe and flute. Telemann's inventiveness continues to amaze, and the playing is exquisite. Highly recommended to all classical collections. (RA) |
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| COUNTRY/FOLK |
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| Title: |
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All I Intended to Be |
| Label: |
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Nonesuch
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Artist:
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Emmylou Harris |
| ISBN: |
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9786312105527 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00075597992854 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDNONE480444 |
| Cat.#: |
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480444-2 |
| Genre: |
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Country |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Harris’ first solo album in five years is a portrait of an assured master at work, delivering fresh material that hearkens back to different eras of her storied career. Background vocals by Dolly Parton on one song and a cover of a Merle Haggard tune recall her earlier country recordings. Harris contributes four original songs to the set, evoking her more recent work (she really emerged as a songwriter with 2000’s Red Dirt Girl – prior to that, she recorded almost exclusively cover songs). Highlights include two songs Harris wrote with Kate and Anna McGarrigle, with one, “How Could She Sing The Wildwood Flower,” recalling the McGarrigle’s earlier Appalachian-tinged “Going Back To Harlan.” Everything has a relaxed, comfortable elegance to it – the songs sparkle in a subdued way, and bear repeated listening. Recommended. (GH) |
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| Title: |
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Stardust |
| Label: |
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Legacy
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Artist:
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Willie Nelson |
| ISBN: |
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9786312121794 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00886972908724 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDCOLM29087 |
| Cat.#: |
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88697 29087 2 |
| Genre: |
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Country & Western |
| Release type: |
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Reissue (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
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In 1978, Willie Nelson rebelled against Nashville’s corporate overseers by releasing Stardust, a beautiful set of well-known pop and jazz covers that was about as far from “country” music as you could imagine. Willie’s versions are lovingly rendered and skillfully executed, with his soft singing and acoustic guitar taking center stage. Defying all of Nashville’s expectations, Stardust was a huge hit, selling over 5 million copies, generating two # 1 hits (“Georgia on My Mind” and “Blue Skies”), and staying on the country charts for a decade. The Legacy reissue of this classic includes 16 additional standards Willie recorded on other LPs, showing how deeply Willie has added his inimitable stamp to what’s now called the Great American Songbook. This just gets better with age. Essential for any music collection. (GH)
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| $22.98 |
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| Title: |
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Blame It On Gravity |
| Label: |
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New West
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Artist:
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Old 97's |
| ISBN: |
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9786312031475 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00607396614820 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDNWST6148 |
| Cat.#: |
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NW6148 |
| Genre: |
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Pop/Rock Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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This is certainly country music at the rock end of the spectrum. The Old 97s' new release finds them back in Dallas, and back to their roots in fine form, a fun combination of country and power pop. They mix uptempo rockers with ballads over the course of thirteen tracks and do it all with infectious enthusiasm. The deluxe edition is accompanied by a DVD that includes interviews with band members and concert footage. This is a great band with a great new album, for fans of alternative country and bar bands. (JW) |
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| $14.95 |
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| Title: |
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The New Kid in Town |
| Label: |
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Kravos Recordings
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Artist:
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Johnny Koenig |
| UPC: |
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63965505223 |
| Cat.#: |
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JK 0052 |
| Genre: |
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Polka |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Most Cleveland, or Slovenian-style, polka musicians are a bit on the, ahem, older side, as is the audience for the music. Johnny Koenig wants to change that. The 18-year-old moved from New York to Cleveland to work with the current masters of the style, including Bob Kravos, who also appears on this release. Playing piano accordion and button box he works in the tradition of Frank Yankovic, and includes several of Frank’s songs. He displays considerable virtuosity, and a mix of polkas, waltzes, original tunes, and guest artists make this a fine debut for this fresh face on the scene. (JW) |
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| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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Comedians & Angels |
| Label: |
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Appleseed
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Artist:
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Tom Paxton |
| ISBN: |
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9786311824214 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00611587110527 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDAPPL1105 |
| Cat.#: |
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APR CD 1105 |
| Genre: |
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Folk Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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The man who wrote one of the classic breakup songs four decades ago (“The Last Thing On My Mind”) is still going strong. This time around he’s writing songs about relationships gone right, and the result is a relaxed, well-crafted set of love songs to his wife and family. And because it’s a Tom Paxton recording, there are a few political songs, plus the wistful, beautiful title track, a love song to his activist/songwriter buddies from the 60’s. (GH) |
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| Title: |
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Dreams Of Breathing Underwater |
| Label: |
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Topic
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Artist:
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Eliza Carthy |
| ISBN: |
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9786312113799 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00714822057127 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDTOPI571 |
| Cat.#: |
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TSCD571 |
| Genre: |
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Folk |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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English fiddler extraordinaire Eliza Carthy steps aside from the folk canon for an impressive CD of original material. The rousing, electric-guitar driven “Follow The Dollar” opens the record – a song based on a tune by West Virginia banjo master Dwight Diller. That sets the stage, as Carthy blends traditional fare and her own songwriting skills to create a rollicking set of songs loosely themed on summer frivolities on the British seaside. Stylistically, it’s all over the map – but everything works remarkably well. Recommended. (GH) |
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| JAZZ |
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| $18.98 |
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| Title: |
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The Three T's: Live From the Hickory House, New York |
| Label: |
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Jazz Oracle (dist. City Hall)
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Artist:
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The Three T's |
| ISBN: |
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9786311456613 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00620588805622 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDJZZO8056 |
| Cat.#: |
|
8056 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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| Comments: |
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In late 1936, Jack Teagarden (trombone), his brother, Charlie (trumpet), and Frank Trumbauer (tenor sax), took a leave of absence from the Paul Whiteman Orchestra, and with backing musicians played a series of gigs at the Hickory House in New York. The concerts were broadcast on the radio, and three of these have been remastered and released here from the original acetates. Away from the formality of Whiteman, they had a chance to cut loose, and the results were tremendous. This is a fascinating snapshot of a moment in time (news announcements included) and of three great musicians. (JW) |
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| Title: |
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Panorama |
| Label: |
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Sunnyside
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Artist:
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Hans Glawischnig |
| ISBN: |
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9786311716298 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00016728117920 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDSSCI281179 |
| Cat.#: |
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SSC 1179 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Glawischnig is a bassist who’s been working in Latin jazz circles for years. Here he leads his own group, or groups, in a Latin-flavored outing that goes in its own direction. Glawischnig basically uses two different combos, alternating tracks, one with Miguel Zenon on alto sax and Luis Perdomo on piano, the other with David Binney and Chick Corea. Each has a different feel, but is held together by the leader’s strong bass. This is a fine outing, and one deserving of a wide audience. (JW) |
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| $16.98 |
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| Title: |
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Sambatropolis |
| Label: |
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Zoho (dist. Allegro)
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Artist:
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Hendrik Meurkens |
| ISBN: |
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9786311730546 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00880956080123 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDZHOR200801 |
| Cat.#: |
|
ZM 200801 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Brooklyn and Brazil are moving closer together all the time. Meurkens, playing both vibes and harmonica, an unusual combination to say the least, combines bebop and Brazilian styles in any number of ways. Using chorinhos, bossa novas, ballads, and blues, he and his band mates are sometimes exuberant, other times quiet and wistful. He’s worked with this group before, so the comfort level is high, as is the level of musicianship. For fans of samba/jazz. (JW) |
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| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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Tiny Resistors |
| Label: |
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Cryptogramophone
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Artist:
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Todd Sickafoose |
| ISBN: |
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9786312127666 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00671860013822 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDCPTG600138 |
| Cat.#: |
|
138 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Bassist/multi-instrumentalist Sickafoose anchors his octet with tight, supple bass/guitar/drum rhythms, then sprinkles in horns and a handful of other instruments with consistently intriguing results. The result is a wonderful slice of modern jazz that hints at Bill Frisell’s work in the way that it draws on many genres, and like Frisell’s work, Sickafoose’s music sparkles with his own wry, original style. For the record, many know Sickafoose for his work with singer/songwriter Ani DiFranco, who guests on two cuts. (GH) |
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| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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Bach/Coltrane |
| Label: |
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Zig-Zag Territoires (dist. Allegro)
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Artist:
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Johann Sebastian Bach; John Coltrane |
| Performer: |
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Raphaël Imbert; André Rossi; Quatuor Manfred; Jean-Luc De Fraya; Michel Péres; Gérard Lesne |
| ISBN: |
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9786311801727 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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03760009291614 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDZGZG80101 |
| Cat.#: |
|
ZZT080101 |
| Period: |
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Modern |
| Genre: |
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Jazz Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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This recording is the fruit of a unique project led by Raphaël Imbert (saxophone & bass clarinet) and André Rossi (organ). It provides performances/interpretations of pieces by J.S. Bach and John Coltrane in an attempt to connect the two composers in terms of their spirituality and compositional technique. Without a doubt, it is a success, and done with care, dedication, and a high level of musicianship. Interestingly, the tracks often combine directly the styles in which these two composers worked (baroque and jazz). For example, the first track features a string quartet performance of “Contrapunctus I” from the Art of Fugue along with a saxophone solo that is improvised above it. Also featured on this recording are the Quatuor Manfred; Jean-Luc De Fraya (percussion); Michel Péres (bass); and Gérard Lesne (countertenor). (PS) |
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| Title: |
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Loverly |
| Label: |
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Blue Note
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Artist:
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Cassandra Wilson |
| ISBN: |
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9786312117629 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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05099950769926 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDBNOT07699 |
| Cat.#: |
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50999 5 07699 2 6 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
Standards collections are often workmanlike regurgitations of the canon, but with Loverly, Wilson and her remarkable sidemen (including pianist Jason Moran and guitarist Marvin Sewell) rework and reinvent each tune from top to bottom, and the result is a tour de force. The tunes are familiar – “Caravan,” “Dust My Broom,” “Lover Come Back To Me,” but the style and delivery bear the unmistakable stamp of Wilson’s highly individualistic approach that, at various times, is swinging, sultry, or soulful. Wilson shows, more so than ever, that she’s already earned her place in the pantheon with Betty Carter, Abbey Lincoln, and Nina Simone - musicians who redefined the very art of jazz singing. Amazing stuff. Very highly recommended. (GH) |
|
|
| ROCK/POP |
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Sandancing |
| Label: |
|
Important (dist. Allegro)
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Beequeen |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311818121 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00793447517728 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDIPTT177 |
| Cat.#: |
|
177 |
| Genre: |
|
Pop/Rock Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
This long-underground electronic project of Dutch duo Frans De Waard and Freek Kinkelaar has prolifically created sonic dreamscapes with a darkness lurking beneath the surface that calls to mind the cinema of David Lynch. The addition of vocalist Olga Wallis allows the ensemble to compose more song-like tracks, making this one more of an experimental dream pop record, and not their signature disturbing nightmare sounds. Having been deeply involved in musique concrete and European experimental music circles since the 80’s, the group creates subtle, intellectual pop music by aesthete-composers that is rare and rewarding. (TWB) |
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Med Sud i Eyrum Vid Spilum Endalaust |
| Label: |
|
XL (dist. ADA)
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Sigur Ros |
| ISBN: |
|
9786312166306 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00634904036423 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDXL 403642 |
| Cat.#: |
|
40364 |
| Genre: |
|
Pop/Rock |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Sigur Ros has become known for other-wordly, atmospheric music that occasionally comes crashing down to earth. Med Sud i Eyrum Vid Spilum Endalaust ("With a Buzz in Our Ears We Play Endlessly") is a trek into the world of pop, with a much more upbeat and joyful sound compared to their emotional Takk... and their visually and sonically brilliant Heima, both of which were firmly entrenched in the rock world. This new album might find more crossover appeal and acceptance by a broader audience; however Sigur Ros fans will not be disappointed. Recommended. (PB)
|
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Viva La Vida or Death and All His Friends |
| Label: |
|
Capitol
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Coldplay |
| ISBN: |
|
9786312068235 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
05099921688607 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDCAP 168860 |
| Cat.#: |
|
16886 |
| Genre: |
|
Pop/Rock Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
One word come to mind when reviewing Viva La Vida: comfortable. Coldplay's fourth studio album isn't a departure for the band; however it does come across as musically confident and shows a band that is comfortable in their skin and with their sound. The universal themes will appeal to a broad audience, as will the orchestrated rock music...it will be what Coldplay fans have come to expect, with a few highlights and typically standard fare. Coldplay excels as a live band; however the energy and emotion of their live shows translates well on Viva La Vida, it's a worthy effort and worth the purchase. Recommended. (PB) |
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
If Children |
| Label: |
|
Merge (dist. ADA)
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Wye Oak |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311955017 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00673855032122 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDMERG50321 |
| Cat.#: |
|
50321 |
| Genre: |
|
Pop/Rock |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
This Baltimore duo makes pop music that is at times subdued, sublime and sweet, and at other times cacophonic, with lush layers of guitars, keyboards, drums, strings (ocassionally), and vocals that are punctuated with controlled chaos here and leavened with blips and fuzzy electronic noise there. Male/female vocals that complement one another and astute arrangements make this an indie record that is both accessible and one that improves with repeated listening. The band themselves describe their sound: “If a song is good enough, it’ll stand on its own regardless of how much noise you pile on top. On the other hand, we do like noise.” Recommended. (TWB) |
|
|
|
| |
| $12.00 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
| Title: |
|
Verbs |
| Label: |
|
Aagoo Records
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Au |
| Cat.#: |
|
AGO 014 |
| Genre: |
|
Rock |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Singer/songwriter Luke Wyland is the architect of this complex yet delightfully accessible Portland experimental collective. They’ve been favorably compared to Terry Riley and Steve Reich as well as Animal Collective and Grizzly Bear. It is pop music that art music connoisseurs can enjoy and art music that avant pop fans will enjoy! The ensemble includes nearly 30 musicians and the album features music that ranges from an exuberant 20-voice chorus to hushed chamber music lullabies, would-be show tunes or banjo interludes. Ecstatic pop jams transition seamlessly into alchemic meditations to create a kind of pop symphony in nine movements that is as seriously good as it is delightfully, otherworldly strange. Highly recommended. (TWB) |
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
We Started Nothing |
| Label: |
|
Columbia/Red
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Ting Tings |
| ISBN: |
|
9786312106517 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00886972892528 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDCMBA88697289252 |
| Cat.#: |
|
88697 28925 2 |
| Genre: |
|
Pop/Rock Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
The Ting Ting’s debut may accurately be described as insouciant, but that is too refined a word when “cheeky” is equally apt for a band with song titles like “Shut Up and Let Me Go.” The chorus of “That’s Not My Name” has the bouncy infectiousness of Toni Basil’s sole hit “Mickey,” but the more delicate counterpoint ending, in contrast to the chanted lyrics, rescues it from sports jam cliché. The British duo combines electronics and guitars to convey all the excitement one expects of a band whose music is featured in an iPod commercial. (MC) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $17.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Real Animal |
| Label: |
|
Manhattan
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Alejandro Escovedo |
| ISBN: |
|
9786312140443 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00094638241126 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDMHAT82411 |
| Cat.#: |
|
0946 3 82411 2 6 |
| Genre: |
|
Pop/Rock |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
“Always a Friend” exemplifies the strengths of Alejandro Escovedo’s latest release, on which the punk- and roots-influenced songwriter chronicles a lifetime of relationships; he rocks hard while expressing heartfelt emotion. Producer Tony Visconti’s stamp is most evident on “Golden Bear” with its musical allusions to David Bowie’s “Ashes to Ashes.” Messy guitar and violin lines top a menacing undercurrent on “Chelsea Hotel ’78,” informed by the Stooges’ “I Wanna Be Your Dog.” Iggy Pop’s influence surfaces again on “Real as an Animal,” about the man himself. Other tracks honor former bands and bandmates thoughout Escovedo’s three-decade career, which shows no signs of waning. (MC) |
|
|
|
|
| Title: |
|
Tooth of Crime |
| Label: |
|
Nonesuch
|
|
Artist:
|
|
T-Bone Burnett |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311997468 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00075597993851 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDNONE450300 |
| Cat.#: |
|
450300-2 |
| Genre: |
|
Pop/Rock Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Originally conceived as the musical accompaniment to a Sam Shepard play, Tooth of Crime is a cohesive song cycle marked by hauntingly atmospheric arrangements and Burnett’s ongoing examination of morality in modern society. Shaped by Marc Ribot’s guitar tones and darkly voiced horns, the moody music defines a landscape filled with political operatives, dope dealers, unapologetic killers, and other characters living in a world of shadows and shady ethics. Musically and lyrically, Tooth of Crime is a strikingly original slice of what might be called musical noir. Highly recommended. (GH) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $18.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Viva La Vida or Death and All His Friends |
| Label: |
|
Capitol
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Coldplay |
| ISBN: |
|
9786312068235 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
05099921688607 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDCAP 168860 |
| Cat.#: |
|
16886 |
| Genre: |
|
Pop/Rock Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
By bringing in producer Brian Eno for their latest album, Coldplay further develops its well-known strength for syncopated anthems, and on Viva La Vida they both adjust to adjust to and push against his attempts at sonic control. The album is bookended by synth washes reminiscent of Eno's own ambient excursions, while throughout the program rhythms inspired by My Life in the Bush of Ghosts are interwoven with textures more typical of Coldplay's earlier work, occasionally peppered by glimpses of U2's The Joshua Tree. What shines through is an addictive, freshly exhilarating Coldplay album. (AJ) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $13.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Modern Guilt |
| Label: |
|
Geffen
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Beck |
| ISBN: |
|
9786312137504 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00602517754416 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDUMG B001150702 |
| Cat.#: |
|
001150702 |
| Genre: |
|
Pop/Rock Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Beck’s swing from Sea Change to Guero and The Information has found a middle ground with the assistance of Danger Mouse, resulting in a muted masterpiece that blends the best aspects of his musical expansion. Where his previous two albums recalled Odelay’s sonic environment to a perhaps overly loquacious extent, Modern Guilt revels in its simplicity and starkness, with both timbre and structure focused into an unavoidable death ray of musical innovation. Very highly recommended. (AJ) |
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|
 |
| |
| $11.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Med Sud i Eyrum Vid Spilum Endalaust |
| Label: |
|
Xl Records (dist. ADA)
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Sigur Ros |
| ISBN: |
|
9786312166306 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00634904036423 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDXL 403642 |
| Cat.#: |
|
40364 |
| Genre: |
|
Pop/Rock Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Sigur Rós are purveyors of experimental post-rock -- an amalgamation of classical, minimalist, and pop elements that is, among other things, difficult to classify. 1999’s Ágætis Byrjun was a classic anti-epic, 2002’s Sigur Rós offered eight untitled mini-symphonies, and 2005’s Takk… found them shifting from ethereal sounds to raw noise. It would then only make sense that their newest glistens with mastery of all these elements, but it is the humanity behind their sound which demands repeat listening. (AJ) |
|
|
| WORLD/ETHNIC |
|
 |
| |
| $19.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Nigeria Disco Funk Special: The Sound of The Underground Lagos Dancefloor 1974-79 |
| Label: |
|
Soundway (dist. Forced Exposure)
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Various Artists |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311979495 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00827565033423 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDSNWY10 |
| Cat.#: |
|
SNDWCD010 |
| Genre: |
|
World Music |
| Release type: |
|
Compilation |
| Comments: |
|
This is the second of three releases Soundway has put out this year documenting rare Nigerian music of the 70s (see the May 2008 CD Hotlist for the first). There is little here that Americans would describe as disco, but what we would call Afrofunk or Afrobeat was what enlivened the dance-floors in Lagos during this period -- lots of wah-wah guitar, extended vamps, and sax solos, with occasional chanted vocals. Another small window into a very fertile period of African music, with the added advantage that Soundway actually licenses the tracks and pays royalties, unlike some other labels. Recommended. (SA) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $36.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Nah und Fern |
| Label: |
|
Kompakt (dist. Forced Exposure)
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Gas |
| ISBN: |
|
9786312102274 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00880319035326 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDKPKT66 |
| Cat.#: |
|
KOMPAKT 4XCD 066 |
| Genre: |
|
Electronica |
| Release type: |
|
Reissue (4-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
Cologne’s Kompakt label is largely responsible for the ascendancy of minimal techno on the world’s dance-floors, but the label has also introduced a different kind of teutonic cool with the style called ambient techno, especially on its annual Pop Ambient series. In the late 90s label co-founder Wolfgang Voigt released four classics of the genre on Mille Plateaux under the nom de disque Gas – Gas, Zauberberg, Koenigsforst, and Pop – that are now being reissued on Kompakt as a sumptuously packaged box titled Nah und Fern (Near and Far). Sometimes employing a beat but often just a shimmering cloud of processed strings, Gas meant music of pure texture that can be either soothing or foreboding depending on the listener’s mood. This re-release is a real event in contemporary European music. (SA) |
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|
 |
| |
| $17.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Life of Contradiction |
| Label: |
|
Pressure Sounds
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Joe Higgs |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311943298 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00689492074326 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDPSRS920743 |
| Cat.#: |
|
PSCD58 |
| Genre: |
|
Reggae |
| Release type: |
|
Reissue |
| Comments: |
|
Joe Higgs briefly toured with the Wailers as a replacement for Bunny Wailer, but it is Peter Tosh that he resembles vocally, and he was reportedly instrumental in teaching the group the vocal trio style that was the key to their early success. As a solo artist, Higgs’ profile was always very low, but this album from the early 70s is a low-key classic that has been unavailable for years. A welcome reissue that exhibits all the virtues of the golden age of reggae and is long overdue. (SA) |
|
|
 |
| |
| $23.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
The Syliphone Years |
| Label: |
|
Sterns Music USA
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Balla Et Ses Balladins |
| ISBN: |
|
9786312147060 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00740042303522 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDSTEN3035-36 |
| Cat.#: |
|
STCD3035-36 |
| Genre: |
|
World Music |
| Release type: |
|
Compilation |
| Comments: |
|
Sterns Music continues its benign plundering of the Syliphone label, this time focusing on Balla et ses Balladins. This group explored a peculiarly Guinean take on the rumba-based music that was growing wild in west Africa as nation after nation shook off colonial rule and flexed its cultural muscles. Covering the period 1968-80, this compilation exhibits all of the virtues of Sterns’ recent reissues – good sound, informative liner notes, and a generous selection of fine music. (SA) |
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|
 |
| |
| $17.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Truths And Rights (Deluxe Edition) |
| Label: |
|
Heartbeat
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Johnny Osbourne |
| ISBN: |
|
9786312173762 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00011661784024 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECD116 6178402 |
| Cat.#: |
|
11661-7840-2 |
| Genre: |
|
Reggae |
| Release type: |
|
Reissue |
| Comments: |
|
A classic slice of early dancehall reggae produced at Clement Dodd's famous Studio One, Johnny Osbourne's Truths and Rights remains a genuine reggae classic. This deluxe reissue features remastered sound and add six bonus tracks to the original program -- one previously unreleased song and five extended remixes and dub versions. A must for any comprehensive reggae collection. (RA) |
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|
 |
| |
| $16.98 |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Title: |
|
Merengue Tipico from The Dominican Republic |
| Label: |
|
Smithsonian Folkways
|
|
Artist:
|
|
La India Canela |
| ISBN: |
|
9786311943229 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00093074054727 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDFOLK740547 |
| Cat.#: |
|
SFW CD 40547 |
| Genre: |
|
Latin |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Your first reaction upon starting up this CD by Dominican accordionist/singer/composer La India Canela might be to double-check and make sure your CD player isn't broken -- if mine had a speed setting, I would have sworn it was set for 45 rpm. This Dominican merengue tipico sounds like it's played at about twice the speed of most merengue music I've heard before, but surprisingly, it works very well -- it's exhausting, yes, but in a good way. And just listen to that bass player! Recommended. (RA) |
|
© CD HotList 2004 |
