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January 2009
Look for "Rick's Pick" 
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| CLASSICAL |
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| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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Hymns Of Vaughan Williams |
| Label: |
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Griffin (dist. Qualiton)
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Composer:
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Ralph Vaughan Williams |
| Performer: |
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Cardiff Festival Choir ; Robert Court / Owain Arwel Hughes |
| ISBN: |
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9786312266709 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00675754009175 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDGFIN4063 |
| Cat.#: |
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GCCD 4063 |
| Period: |
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Romantic/20th Century |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Although some of the hymn tunes in this collection are original Vaughan Williams compositions, many are settings of folk tunes gathered from around the countryside, set to religious texts, and published in the 1906 English Hymnal. All are set with the church congregation in mind and, as such, will be of most interest to those studying church music although there might be some interest to lay persons. (MJB) |
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| Title: |
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Six Duets for Two Flutes |
| Label: |
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Accent (dist. Qualiton)
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Composer:
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Wilhelm Friedemann Bach |
| Performer: |
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Barthold Kuijken; Marc Hantai |
| ISBN: |
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9786312013167 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00750582475122 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDACCE9057 |
| Cat.#: |
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ACC 9057 |
| Period: |
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Baroque |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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Reissue |
| Comments: |
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The price is too high for a reissue, but there's no questioning either the attractiveness of the playing or the quality of the compositions on this collection of flute duets by J.S. Bach's son Wilhelm Friedemann. Kuijken and Hantai play on period-appropriate wooden flutes, and their tone is soft, almost pillowy, but more than clear and sharp enough to nicely display the contrapuntal genius and harmonically ambitious creativity of this too-neglected composer. A welcome reissue of a brilliant recording. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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3 Sonatas arranged for String Quartet |
| Label: |
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Hungaroton (dist. Qualiton)
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Composer:
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Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart |
| Performer: |
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Quartetto Luigi Tomasini |
| ISBN: |
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9786312266716 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00675754009335 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDHUGR32408 |
| Cat.#: |
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HCD 32408 |
| Period: |
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Classical |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Period-instrument recordings of Mozart's chamber music are always intrinsically interesting, because they frequently give one the chance to hear these instruments being played at close to the limit of their expressive range. This disc is especially interesting because it features, in world-premiere recordings, arrangements for string quartet of one of Mozart's piano trios and two of his four-hand piano sonatas. The Luigi Tomasini Quartet plays with evident joy and admirable skill, and the pieces themselves are a delight. Highly recommended. (RA) |
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| $18.98 |
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| Title: |
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Te Deum Laudamus |
| Label: |
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Carus (dist. Albany)
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Composer:
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Aemilian Rosengart |
| Performer: |
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Orpheus Vokalensemble; Ars Antiqua Austria / Jugen Essl |
| ISBN: |
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9786312535911 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00409350834271 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDCARUC83427 |
| Cat.#: |
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83.427 |
| 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 fine disc showcases the little-known monastic composer Aemilian Rosengart, who left behind 90 known works, all of them liturgical; of the fifteen tracks, fourteen are world-premiere recordings, and all are exceptionally lovely -- though the "Ave Maria" setting is especially good. Specialist collections should snap this one up immediately; wonderful as it is, it should probably be considered less essential for more generalist classical collections. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Requiem Des Rois De France; Les Meslanges |
| Label: |
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Naive
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Composer:
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Eustache du Caurroy |
| Performer: |
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Doulce Memoire / Denis Raisin Dadre |
| ISBN: |
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9786312502265 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00822186089224 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDNAIVE8922 |
| Cat.#: |
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E 8922 |
| Period: |
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Renaissance |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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Reissue (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
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Originally issued ten years ago, these two recordings are reissued here in a handsome case binding with gorgeous photographs and art reproductions, along with detailed liner notes. Du Caurroy's Requiem was an established favorite at the time of original recording, but the Meslanges (63 brief vocal pieces, of which ten are presented) had never been recorded before. Every early music collection that does not own these recordings in their original issues should jump at the chance to pick them up now. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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She's Sweetest When She's Naked: Flute Music from 18th-century Scotland |
| Label: |
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Early-Music.Com (dist. Naxos)
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Composer:
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Various Composers |
| Performer: |
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Alison Melville; various accompanists |
| ISBN: |
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9786312428411 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00622406776121 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDELYMEMCCD7761 |
| Cat.#: |
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EMCCD-7761 |
| 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 say this for flutist/recorderist Alison Melville and her record label: they know how to market a baroque recording. Those in search of titillation will be disappointed, but those looking for the elegance and courtliness of baroque chamber music leavened with the lilt of traditional Scottish melodies will be delighted. Naked or not, Ms. Melville is utterly charming on this album. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Nachtstucke |
| Label: |
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Musicaphon
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Composer:
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Various Composers |
| Performer: |
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Heidrun Holtmann |
| ISBN: |
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9786312266891 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00675754009854 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDMPH 56904 |
| Cat.#: |
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M 56904 |
| Period: |
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Romantic/20th Century |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
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Ms. Holtmann chose the connecting theme of "night" for all the works in this collection of piano music. This term would imply a dark, somber, even melancholy mood to the collection; however, the range of moods and styles in these pieces runs the whole gamut (joyous, melancholy,playful, serious) and keeps the listener engaged through repeated listenings. Ms. Holtmann displays an absolute love for this music as well as considerable technical ability. The variety of mood and style in addition to near-perfect execution make this disc well worth the price. Recommended for all collections. (MJB) |
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| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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3 Piano Trios and Nocturne |
| Label: |
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Talent
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Composer:
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Charles de Beriot |
| Performer: |
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Kuniko Nagata; Hirotoshi Kasai; Mark Drobinsky |
| ISBN: |
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9786312267119 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00675754006266 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDTALT127 |
| Cat.#: |
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DOM 2911 127 |
| Period: |
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Romantic |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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De Beriot's music is quintessentially Romantic with its bel canto melodies, tonal language, and fairly predictable forms. Nevertheless, the music written by this violin virtuoso is enjoyable and engaging. Best known for his violin concerti, these intimate pieces of chamber music are an absolute delight, totally relaxing, and beautiful. Recommended for all collections. (MJB) |
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| $18.99 |
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| Title: |
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Symphonies |
| Label: |
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Chandos (dist. Naxos)
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Composer:
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Leopold Mozart |
| Performer: |
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London Mozart Players / Matthias Bamert |
| ISBN: |
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9786312569190 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00095115149621 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDCNDS10496 |
| Cat.#: |
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CHAN 10496 |
| 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 London Mozart Players is one of the best ensembles currently playing music of the classical period on modern instruments. This delightful collection features world-premiere recordings of symphonies by Mozart's father -- a composer of undeniable gifts if not his son's effervescent genius. The playing is vivacious and the sound quality excellent. Comprehensive classical collections should consider ordering the whole Contemporaries of Mozart series, which showcases many other unknown or underappreciated composers of the era as well. (RA) |
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| $21.98 |
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| Title: |
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Why Not Here: Music for Two Lyra Viols |
| Label: |
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Accent (dist. Qualiton)
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Composer:
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Various Composers |
| Performer: |
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Hille Perl; Friederike Heumann |
| ISBN: |
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9786312522263 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00675754011154 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDACCE24205 |
| Cat.#: |
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ACC 25205 |
| Period: |
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Renaissance |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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The soft, slightly vinegary tone of the viola da gamba is an acquired taste for some, and others resonate to it immediately. Both categories of listener are likely to be won over by this collection of pavanes, airs, allemands, etc. by various English composers, performed by the wonderful duo of Hille Perl and Friederike Heumann. This is melancholy music, perfectly suited for a rainy afternoon by the fire with a book -- and if you happen to be pining after an unavailable love object, so much the better. (RA) |
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| COUNTRY/FOLK |
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| $14.98 |
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| Title: |
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Rise & Shine |
| Label: |
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Progression Music Group/Select
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Artist:
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Fanny Grace |
| ISBN: |
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9786311480618 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00837101323185 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDPRGM3231 |
| Cat.#: |
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PRE 1110006 |
| Genre: |
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Country |
| Release type: |
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| Comments: |
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Charming, hook-laden meat-and-potatoes country music from an unlikely duo: Irish-born guitarist Paul Reeves and California-bred singer Carmen Mejia. Song titles like "My Cowboy's Last Ride" and "Till the Wheels Fall Off" give you a good idea of what to expect: honky tonkers, weepers, and songs of romantic longing and sweet forgiveness. And the program ends with a straight and respectful version of the Carter Family classic "The Storms Are On the Ocean." Very nice. (RA) |
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| $15.98 |
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| Title: |
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Family & Friends -- Rambling Boy |
| Label: |
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Decca
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Artist:
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Charlie Haden |
| ISBN: |
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9786312425557 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00602517791657 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDUMG B001163902 |
| Cat.#: |
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B0011639-02 |
| Genre: |
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Country & Western |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Before making his name as a jazz bassist, Charlie Haden traveled the midwest as a child with the regional touring act the Haden Family. He revisits the country music of his youth this time, rounding up his entire family and friends such as Rosanne Cash and Elvis Costello. The program includes new compositions as well as those his family sang in his youth, all conveying a gentle ease and warmth. (MC) |
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| Title: |
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Church Bell Blues |
| Label: |
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True North
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Artist:
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Catherine Maclellan |
| ISBN: |
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9786311572795 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00620638050224 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDTNRT502 |
| Cat.#: |
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TND 502 |
| Genre: |
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Folk |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Singer-songwriters have a tendency towards either overassertiveness or a shrinking diffidence. Not so Catherine MacLellan, who manages the exceedingly difficult task of singing softly with tremendous strength. Her songs express sadness, wonder, doubt, and hope with lyrical grace while demonstrating an enviable melodic gift, and her arrangements are always spare in just the right way. Excellent. (RA) |
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| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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Out Of The Wind - Into The Sun |
| Label: |
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Mulligan/Compass
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Artist:
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Bothy Band |
| ISBN: |
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9786312349587 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00766397301327 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDMULR973013 |
| Cat.#: |
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LUNCD 3013 |
| Genre: |
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Celtic |
| Release type: |
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Reissue |
| Comments: |
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This is a true Celtic classic, an album originally released in 1977 and still sounding as fresh and lovely as it did then. The Bothy Band are stone virtuosos (membership at the time included piper Paddy Keenan, fiddler Kevin Burke, and flutist Matt Molloy) but their arrangements are sharp and clean and their playing always serves the tune rather than using the tune as a showcase for their own technique. It would have been nice to hear a few more vocals from Triona Ni Domhnail, but it's hard to complain about the wealth of gorgeous instrumental tunes. If your library doesn't already own the original Green Linnet CD version, then grab this one now. (RA) |
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| $18.98 |
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| Title: |
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Sleepless Nights |
| Label: |
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Time Life Music
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Artist:
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Patty Loveless |
| ISBN: |
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9786312381303 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00610583243222 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDTLIFM19660 |
| Cat.#: |
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M19660 |
| Genre: |
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Country & Western |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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This time out, neo-traditionalist Loveless goes all out and gives us fourteen classic country songs from a bygone era. “Please Help Me, I’m Falling” sits comfortably next to “Cold, Cold Heart” and “Crazy Arms,” not with the intent to create a nostalgia trip for the 1950s, but to give us a batch of great songs, gorgeously sung, with depth and emotion. The backing band is great, and everything works. Loveless has given us another fine treat, and we older folks can sing along, too. (JW) |
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| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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Glide |
| Label: |
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Koch Imports
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Artist:
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Jerry Douglas |
| ISBN: |
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9786312271970 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00099923455325 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDKOCH4553 |
| Cat.#: |
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KOC-CD-4553 |
| Genre: |
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Country & Western |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Can Jerry Douglas make a bad album? It seems not. The dobro guitar wizard has put out another fine release, with an assortment of guests who move in and out of the selection of fine songs. Sam Bush, Edgar Meyer, Travis Tritt, Rodney Crowell, and others all take a turn at one thing or another, and while that may seem chaotic, Douglas keeps the music consistent throughout. The program gives us a mix of fast and slow songs, vocals and instrumentals, and everything sounds great. The music truly shines, however, wherever Douglas’ dobro is front and center. This is an excellent choice for acoustic music fans. (JW) |
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| $15.00 |
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| Title: |
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Rider Comin' In |
| Label: |
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Feats
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Artist:
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Will Callery |
| ISBN: |
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9786312433880 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| Cat.#: |
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1 |
| Genre: |
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Country |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Calley gained fame in the 70’s, penning “Hands on the Wheel” for Willie Nelson (recently covered by Norah Jones) while gaining respect as a fine songwriter. He dropped out of sight for several decades, and now he’s with back with an impressive set of tunes delivered in a wizened, grizzled voice (think Kris Kristoferson meets John Martyn). The songs are darkly atmospheric, thanks to some great guitar and steel/dobro work by Joe Forlini and Greg Lowry, and the lyrics bespeak a long spiritual quest. (GH) |
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| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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Delivered |
| Label: |
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Signature Sounds
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Artist:
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Mark Erelli |
| ISBN: |
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9786312407218 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00701237201429 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDSIGS2014 |
| Cat.#: |
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SIG 2014 |
| Genre: |
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Folk |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Erelli’s songs are potent portraits of common folks facing hardships, ranging from the tale of a National Guardsman posted in Iraq (“Volunteers”), to a down-and-out divorced father trying to find meaning (“Five Beer Moon”), to those who finally find some redemption (the title track, “Man of the Family”). Like Bruce Springsteen’s world, Erelli’s is filled with realistically drawn characters struggling with commonplace problems, and like Springsteen, Erelli’s gift is that he makes their tales universal. A fine songwriter delivering a solid set of material. (GH) |
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| JAZZ |
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| $24.95 |
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| Title: |
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Hemispheres |
| Label: |
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ArtistShare
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Artist:
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Jim Hall & Bill Frisell |
| Cat.#: |
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AS0079 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
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One would have high hopes for this collaboration of two of jazz’s finest and most original guitarists, and in fact, brilliance abounds on this excellent two-disc set. The first disc features mostly original material, ostensibly with Frisell providing background for Hall, but the result is a series of beautiful collective improvisations. The second disc favors jazz standards in a quartet setting, with equally delightful if slightly more structured results. Very highly recommended. (GH) |
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| Title: |
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Appearing Nightly |
| Label: |
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WATT/ECM
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Artist:
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Carla Bley Big Band |
| ISBN: |
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9786312401186 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00602517255166 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDUMG B001181502 |
| Cat.#: |
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WATT33 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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In her youth, big band leader/composer Bley worked as a cigarette girl at the legendary New York jazz club Birdland, dispensing nicotine while patrons drank and Count Basie’s band (and others) kept a hard swinging groove going all night long. Whew! Bley brings those memories to bear on this Grammy-nominated set of commissioned pieces. As is her wont, she blends brilliant charts with a sly wit, citing all kinds of songs about food in the opening numbers (“Awful Coffee” and “Greasy Gravy”). But the tour de force is the multi-movement “Appearing Nightly at the Black Orchid,” a musical tribute to the nightly gigs she saw while selling cigarettes in her youth, which was, if this is any account, a very productive musical education. Highly recommended. (GH) |
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| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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Life In Leipzig |
| Label: |
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ECM
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Artist:
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Ketil Bjornstad and Terje Rypdal |
| ISBN: |
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9786311928295 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00602517558915 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDUMG B001081302 |
| Cat.#: |
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B0010813-02 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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One might not predict that the teaming up of a classical pianist and a rock guitarist would result in jazz. However, this concert recording shows just what this duo is capable of, and the results are a fascinating fusion (but not Fusion) of disparate soundscapes. The pieces in this mostly original program meld together into a seamless whole, and the players seem quite evenly matched. The works are avant-garde, but highly melodic and easily accesible. The duo sounds like a whole band at times. This is an excellent recording for rock enthusiasts who would like to sample the European jazz world without fear. (JW) |
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| Title: |
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Notes from The Village |
| Label: |
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Anzic (dist. Ryko)
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Artist:
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Anat Cohen |
| ISBN: |
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9786312410522 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00896434001177 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDAZICA400117 |
| Cat.#: |
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ANZ-1302 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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On her fourth release, Cohen shows that jazz still needs the clarinet. She’s a remarkable musician, and with the help of friends Jason Lindner (piano), Omer Avital (bass), and Daniel Freedman (drums), she takes originals and standards to a sophisticated but highly accessible place. Combining New York attitude with influences ranging from klezmer to Latin styles to hot jazz, she brings a breath of fresh air to modern jazz. This one is highly recommended. (JW) |
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| $12.97 |
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| Title: |
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Perfect Timing |
| Label: |
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CCC Music Group
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Artist:
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Barbara King |
| UPC: |
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884501029049 |
| Cat.#: |
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| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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The debut release by this excellent singer is as fine a debut as one is likely to hear. Stylistically jazz, but gospel-inspired, King combines originals with songs by Lennon/McCartney, Burt Bacharach, Stevie Wonder, and others with a rich expressive voice that nods toward Sarah Vaughan and Dionne Warwick. She’s really that good. Backing her is a great group of musicians, including bassist Ray Drummond, pianist Dorsey Robinson, guitarist Rodney Jones and several guests, but it’s King’s strong, clear, wide-ranging voice that dominates and mesmerizes. (JW) |
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| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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Chet in Chicago |
| Label: |
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Enja (dist. Allegro)
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Artist:
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Chet Baker |
| ISBN: |
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9786312470687 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00063757952428 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDENJA9524 |
| Cat.#: |
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ENJ-9524 2 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
Tragic death has a way of opening up the archives, and since Chet Baker died in 1988 (falling out of a hotel window) a steady stream of previously-unissued material has come to light. This 1986 session finds him working through a set of standards with pianist Bradley Young, bassist Larry Gray and drummer Rusty Jones (with saxophonist Ed Petersen on two track). It has to be said that Baker isn't completely at his best here, though Young is -- and Baker does summon up some real energy on the bop numbers. A must for fans and completist collections; otherwise, an optional purchase. (RA) |
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| $16.98 |
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| Title: |
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You and the Night and the Music |
| Label: |
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18th & Vine (dist. Allegro)
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Artist:
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Sonny Fortune |
| ISBN: |
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9786311432273 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00723721296254 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECD18TV18V1053 |
| Cat.#: |
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18V 1053 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
Alto saxophonist and flutist Sonny Fortune has a long and distinguished resume in jazz, including stints with Dizzy Gillespie, McCoy Tyner and Miles Davis as well as several sessions as a leader for the Blue Note label. Here he brings his Coltrane-y approach to bear on a nice program of standards; a boppish rendition of "Sweet Georgia Brown" opens the set, and there are fine renditions of "You and the Night and the Music," Gillespie's archetypal "Bebop," and the classic Thelonious Monk composition "'Round Midnight" as well. His hard-edged tone gets just a little bit wearing by the end of the album, but there's no doubting the quality of his musicianship or that of the rest of his quartet. (RA) |
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| $15.98 |
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| Title: |
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Odessa/Havana |
| Label: |
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Tzadik (dist. Koch)
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Artist:
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David Buchbinder |
| ISBN: |
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9786311632277 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00702397812128 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDTZDK8121 |
| Cat.#: |
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TZ 8121 |
| Genre: |
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Latin Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Who knew that klezmer melodies and Cuban rhythms could mash up together so nicely? Trumpeter/composer David Buchbinder teams up with pianist/composer Hilario Duran on this wild and exhilarating project, weaving the eerie modalities of Eastern European Jewish tunes into the sensual sway of Cuban dance rhythms. Best song title? "Rumba Judia." (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Live at The Flamingo |
| Label: |
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Acrobat
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Artist:
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Carmen McRae |
| ISBN: |
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9786312540601 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00884607000140 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDAOBT00142 |
| Cat.#: |
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AMACD014 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
Never before issued commercially, this great disc documents a complete 40-minute set by Carmen McRae at London's Flamingo Club in 1961, backed by a piano trio. The sound quality isn't great, but the instruments are all fully audible and McRae's vivacious swing comes through unimpeded. The warts-and-all presentation (including a rather hilarious false start on "Thou Swell") is disarming and she's obviously having the time of her life, as you will too. (RA) |
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| $16.98 |
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| Title: |
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Finally Ron |
| Label: |
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Arbors Jazz
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Artist:
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Ron Hockett Quintet |
| ISBN: |
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9786312685401 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00780941136029 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDARBR19360 |
| Cat.#: |
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ARCD 19360 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
It's hard to believe that this is clarinetist Ron Hockett's first session as a leader, given the multiple decades he has spent on various jazz scenes (not to mention his nearly 30-year career with the U.S. Marine Band), and also given how completely at ease he sounds on this winning program of swing, trad and hot-jazz standards. Part of the credit goes to the other members of this all-star quintet, which includes pianist John Sheridan and drummer Jake Hanna. There aren't any real surprises here, just a wonderfully relaxed but powerfully swinging set of traditional small-ensemble jazz. Here's hoping for another one just like this sometime soon. (RA) |
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| $15.98 |
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| Title: |
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West Of State Street/East Of Harlem |
| Label: |
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Delmark (dist. City Hall)
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Artist:
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John Burnett Swing Orchestra |
| ISBN: |
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9786312506386 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00038153058425 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDDELM0584 |
| Cat.#: |
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DE 584 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
John Burnett's mighty band is at the peak of its powers on this live set from early 2008. I wish the disc told us whose arrangements these are, because they're excellent; the opening track contains just a few moments of rhythmic awkwardness during the early solos, but otherwise this album swings reliably from beginning to end. Singer Frieda Lee is a special treat on "Anytime, Anyday, Anywhere" and "Ten Cents a Dance." Very nice. (RA) |
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| ROCK/POP |
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| $13.98 |
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| Title: |
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Fleet Foxes |
| Label: |
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Subpop Records (dist. ADA)
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Artist:
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Fleet Foxes |
| ISBN: |
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9786312122746 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00098787077728 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDSUBP70777 |
| Cat.#: |
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SPCD 777 |
| Genre: |
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Pop/Rock |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
The Seattle quintet follows up their debut EP with an eponymous album of jangling psychedelic folk rock and haunting vocal harmonies. “Tiger Mountain Peasant Song” cound pass for a Leonard Cohen composition, although the subject matter is less literary. There is a lot of space between the words, leaving more room for the mostly acoustic instrumentation and wordless chanting. Frontman Robin Pecknold’s vocals are soaring but with a rough, earthy edge that meshes well when the rest of the band chimes in. (MC) |
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| $19.98 |
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| Title: |
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Dubstars Vol. 1: From Dub To Disco & From Disco To Dub |
| Label: |
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Echo Beach (dist. Forced Exposure)
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Artist:
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Various Artists |
| ISBN: |
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9786312278221 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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04047179151627 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDECOB69 |
| Cat.#: |
|
069 |
| Genre: |
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Electronica |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
You can always count on the Echo Beach label for a good time, if your idea of a good time is freaked-out dubwise electro-funk. This highly idiosyncratic collection brings together dub mixes of pop and electro hits from the 1980s (Simply Red's "Picture Book," Grace Jones' "She's Lost Control") and 1990s (Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan's "Mustt Mustt," Stereo MCs' "Elevate My Mind") as well as a couple of recently remastered (but otherwise undubbed) tracks from Talking Heads and David Byrne with Brian Eno. The mixes are all lots of fun, and special note goes to Lee "Scratch" Perry's wicked deconstruction of the Terence Trent D'Arby hit "Sign Your Name." I'm not sure it's an essential purchase for all libraries, but it sure wouldn't hurt to have this in your pop collection. (RA) |
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| $15.99 |
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| Title: |
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Everything That Happens Will Happen Today |
| Label: |
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Todo Mundo (dist. Redeye)
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Artist:
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David Byrne & Brian Eno |
| ISBN: |
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9786312548027 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00634457504929 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDTDOM2 |
| Cat.#: |
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TODO 002 |
| Genre: |
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Pop/Rock Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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David Byrne (former leader of Talking Heads) and Brian Eno have been working together on and off since the early 1980s, when Eno produced several Talking Heads albums and the two collaborated on a celebrated electro-anthropological side project called My Life in the Bush of Ghosts. 25 years after that release, the pair reunites for a very different project: a more or less straight-up pop collaboration, featuring Byrne's voice and lyrics and Eno's bass, keyboards, loops and programming. This album could almost be seen as a companion piece to Eno's previous production project, Paul Simon's utterly brilliant Surprise. Byrne isn't quite up to Simon's level as either a melodist or a lyricist, but he's got his own quirky brand of artsy genius going for him and fans will be thrilled to see this fine album's release. Expect demand. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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The UFO Has Landed: The Ry Cooder Anthology |
| Label: |
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Rhino
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Artist:
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Ry Cooder |
| ISBN: |
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9786312516804 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00081227989194 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDRHIN515893 |
| Cat.#: |
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R2 515893 |
| Genre: |
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Pop/Rock Music |
| Release type: |
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Best of (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
Ry Cooder is an American treasure -- a gifted songwriter and near-genius slide guitarist who has regularly subsumed his own ego by showcasing the genius of others, either by using his influence to bring greater recognition to his heroes or by playing music that pays explicit homage to them. While doing so, he has paradoxically developed a unique and immediately recognizable style that draws on blues, folk, rock, country, mariachi, Hawaiian and other musical traditions and ends up sounding simply (and complexly) American. This is a wonderful two-disc retrospective that offers a good overview of his solo and soundtrack work and can be considered an essential purchase for any pop collection that doesn't already own the individual items in his catalog. (RA) |
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| $19.98 |
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| Title: |
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Open Wide |
| Label: |
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Circus Company (dist. Forced Exposure)
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Artist:
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Dave Aju |
| ISBN: |
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9786312478508 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00827170100121 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDCCSC005 |
| Cat.#: |
|
CC 005 |
| Genre: |
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Electronica |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
This warm and funky album was made using nothing but sounds created by Dave Aju's mouth -- some of them immediately recognizable as vocal sounds, but many of them much less so. The result is a groovy, house-based electro romp that really isn't electro at all but would pass for it in any club. Not just a novelty record, Open Wide is a thoroughly enjoyable listening experience regardless of its sonic origins. (RA) |
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| $18.98 |
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| Title: |
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And Winter Came |
| Label: |
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Reprise
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Artist:
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Enya |
| ISBN: |
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9786312559719 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00825646933068 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDWARN512383 |
| Cat.#: |
|
512383-2 |
| Genre: |
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Pop/New Age |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
It came out just a bit late for this year's holiday season, but then, Enya's newest doesn't sound all that much like a Christmas album. What it sounds very much like is every previous Enya album: lush layers of pretty vocals; lots of pizzicato strings; simple, vaguely Celtic melodies. This is mood music, plain and simple, and the mood for which it's suited is a quiet, snowy, possibly romantic evening at home with the lights low and a fire in the fireplace, snuggled up in a blanket next to someone. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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London Zoo |
| Label: |
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Ninja Tune (dist. Revolver)
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Artist:
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Bug |
| ISBN: |
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9786311884003 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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05021392486123 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDNJTN132 |
| Cat.#: |
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ZENCD132 |
| Genre: |
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Dance, DJ |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
London DJ Kevin Martin is back with a dubstep-heavy project featuring such local talent as Warrior Queen, Ricky Ranking, Killa P and even the great Tippa Irie. He resists the temptation to overload his mixes, keeping them thick but straightforward, with the stutter-step rhythms that have made dubstep such a big hit in the dance of late. Track 7 may pose a problem for libraries that need to pay attention to parental advisories; otherwise, this one can be confidently recommended to all adventurous pop collections. (RA) |
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| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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Peaks And Troughs |
| Label: |
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Echo Chord (dist. Forced Exposure)
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Artist:
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Mikkel Metal |
| ISBN: |
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9786312534808 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00880319318221 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDECOC004 |
| Cat.#: |
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ECHO 004CD |
| Genre: |
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Electronica |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
Mikkel Meldgaard (a.k.a. Mikkel Metal) deals in dark, minimalist electro-dub that rarely has much to do with reggae, but rather blends deceptively simple-sounding beats with huge sonic spaces and dark-hued textures to create a melancholy but oddly gentle and even reassuring ambience. On Peaks and Troughs he works with a vocalist for the first time; the great European reggae singer Paul St. Hilaire guests on four tracks, all of which are the better for it. (RA) |
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| $12.98 |
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| Title: |
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Girls And Weather |
| Label: |
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Gigantic
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Artist:
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Rumble Strips |
| ISBN: |
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9786312218869 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00675640001627 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDGGNT00016C |
| Cat.#: |
|
00016 |
| Genre: |
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Pop/Rock |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
It's kind of hard to put your finger on what it is that this quartet from the south of England reminds you of -- dramatic vocals that hark back to Echo and the Bunnymen; handclaps that hark back to girl groups from the 1960s; predominantly acoustic guitars that hark back to the Violent Femmes. All of it is buoyed up by an openhearted joyfulness that is pretty much irresistible. This one will make a very good addition to your Hipster Pop collection. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Variations of Static |
| Label: |
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Erased Tapes (dist. Forced Exposure)
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Artist:
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Olafur Arnalds |
| ISBN: |
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9786312277163 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00689492079727 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDESDT008 |
| Cat.#: |
|
ERATP 008CD |
| Genre: |
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Electro-avant-classical-pop |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
Arnalds' debut album, Eulogy for Evolution, was a sort of classical affair; this follow-up EP combines acoustic piano and sparely arranged strings with electronic beats, glitches, static and synthesized voices. The result is simultaneously soothing and unsettling, which is a pretty impressive achievement when you think about it. If your patrons like this one, go back and buy the full-length debut as well. Very cool. (RA) |
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| WORLD/ETHNIC |
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| Title: |
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Culture & The Deejays at Joe Gibbs 1977-79 |
| Label: |
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17 North Parade
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Artist:
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Culture |
| ISBN: |
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9786312171904 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
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| UPC: |
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00054645411622 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDVP 4116 |
| Cat.#: |
|
VP4116 |
| Genre: |
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Reggae |
| Release type: |
|
Compilation |
| Comments: |
|
Twelve-inch "discomixes" -- on which the original vocal version of a song segues without pause into the dub remix, often with a deejay (i.e. rapper or toaster) chatting over the top -- remains the most satisfying way to hear vintage roots reggae. Few groups of the era were as consistently great as the harmony trio Culture, led by singer and songwriter Joe Hill; this great compilation brings together some of their best work for the legendary producer Joe Gibbs, combined with deejay cuts featuring the likes of I Roy, Nicodemus, Clint Eastwood and (best of all) Prince Far I. A couple of sonic glitches notwithstanding, this is a fantastic compilation and a must for any reggae collection. (RA) |
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| |
| $16.98 |
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| Title: |
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Ayombe!: The Heart of Colombia's Musica Vallenata |
| Label: |
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Smithsonian Folkways
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Artist:
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Various Artists |
| ISBN: |
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9786312059523 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
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| UPC: |
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00093074054628 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDFOLK740546 |
| Cat.#: |
|
SFW CD 40546 |
| Genre: |
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Latin |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
The small valleys of Northeastern Colombia host their own rich musical tradition, and it has become extraordinarily popular, with tens of thousands of fans attending festivals to hear this distinct style. This release includes 15 examples by 25 musicians spanning three generations. Ranging from slow sones to triple meter puyas, the main instrument is the 3-row button accordion, accompanied by rasp, drum, and electric bass guitar. The results are fascinating, sometimes frenetic, with accordionists competing for virtuosic honors. Most common here are medium-tempo paseos, romantic songs made for dancing. The notes are excellent and the music delightful. (JW) |
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| $11.98 |
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| Title: |
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Far Behind I Left My Country: Klezmer and East European Folk Music |
| Label: |
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MSR Classics (dist. Albany)
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Artist:
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UCalgary String Quartet |
| ISBN: |
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9786312204091 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
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| UPC: |
|
00681585127629 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDMSRCMS1276 |
| Cat.#: |
|
MS 1276 |
| Genre: |
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World |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
This may seem like a strange program for a string quartet, but Edmond Agopian, the group's leader, is a native of Romania and conceived this set of folk tune arrangements as a tribute both to the music of his homeland and to the experience of nostalgic immigrants everywhere. To get a sense for the mood on this album, all you need to know is that Agopian is credited not only with first violin but also with "whistling and foot stomping," as well as "glass and plate smashing." (RA) |
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| $23.98 |
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| Title: |
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FRANCOphonic: A Retrospective, Vol. 1 (1953-1980) |
| Label: |
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Sterns
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Artist:
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Franco |
| ISBN: |
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9786312531388 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
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00740042304123 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDSRNA3041 |
| Cat.#: |
|
STCD3041-42 |
| Genre: |
|
World Music |
| Release type: |
|
Compilation (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
The Congolese guitar genius Franco has been anthologized before (the Rough Guide to Franco being a notably concise example), but he recorded dozens of albums before his death in 1989, and Sterns has thankfully decided to give him the in-depth treatment he deserves with FRANCOphonic. This is the first of two double-CD, chronologically arranged compilations (a second volume is promised for 2009), and it begins way back with a single from 1953. The goal seems to be to show the range of Franco’s music, as well as hitting the high points, and the accompanying booklet contains the photos and extensive documentation we’ve come to expect from Sterns. Essential for any library with an interest in African music. (SA) |
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|
|
| Title: |
|
Music of Venezuela |
| Label: |
|
Soundbrush (dist. Allegro)
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Marco Granados |
| ISBN: |
|
9786312576648 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00884501027489 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDSBRC1014 |
| Cat.#: |
|
SR1014 |
| Genre: |
|
Latin Jazz |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
The publicity materials encourage retailers to file this album under "Jazz" or "Latin Jazz," but the music really doesn't have much in common with jazz at all. Flutist Marco Granados plays melodies from his native Venezuela accompanied by cuatro, bass and maracas, and the tunes themselves sound like a strange sort of cross between folk and classical music. His playing would be like a daredevil act if it weren't so tasteful -- his agility, breath control and speed are almost superhuman. Rarely is music this virtuosic also this purely enjoyable. Very highly recommended. (RA) |
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| Title: |
|
Kasbah Rockers |
| Label: |
|
Barraka (dist. Sterns)
|
|
Artist:
|
|
Kasbah Rockers with Bill Laswell |
| ISBN: |
|
9786312660538 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
07619942912826 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDSTENBARBARITY028 |
| Cat.#: |
|
028 |
| Genre: |
|
World Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
I'm a huge fan of bassist/producer Bill Laswell, and wish I could say that his name one a project is a guarantee of high quality. But some of his failures have just as stupendous as his successes (Emerald Aether, anyone?), so one approaches an album like this one with some trepidation. But I'm happy to report that his bass playing blends perfectly with the keening vocals, traditional percussion, Arabic rapping and electronic drum loops on this brilliant album by Pat Jabbar (founder of the Barraka label). If your library caters to fans of Natacha Atlas, Material, and Jah Wobble, then you may want to get two or three copies. (RA) |
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© CD HotList 2004 |
