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March 2009
Look for "Rick's Pick" 
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| CLASSICAL |
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| $19.98 |
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| Title: |
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Vox in Rama: Il Secondo libro de motetti |
| Label: |
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Signum (dist. Qualiton)
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Composer:
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Giaches de Wert |
| Performer: |
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Collegium Regale / Stephen Cleobury |
| ISBN: |
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9786312524465 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00635212013120 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDSGM 131 |
| Cat.#: |
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SIGCD131 |
| Period: |
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Renaissance |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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This is a luminously lovely recording of five-part motets by a criminally overlooked master of the Flemish school, echoes of whose work can be heard clearly in the works of Monteverdi and (though more idiosyncratically) Gesualdo. The singing by the Collegium Regale is superb. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Musica Claromontana Vol 42: Nun (Missa in D); Neumann (Vesperae de Confessore; Vesperae de Apostolis) |
| Label: |
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Dux (dist. Qualiton)
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Composer:
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Dominik Nun; Wawrzyniec Neumann |
| Performer: |
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A Capella Leopolis; Consortium Sedinum / Pawel Osuchowski |
| ISBN: |
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9786312523567 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00675754011352 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDDUX 0359 |
| Cat.#: |
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0359 |
| Period: |
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Baroque |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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This ongoing survey of music produced over the past several centuries at the Pauline Friary of Jasna Gora, in Poland, has resulted in scores of wonderful recordings so far. This one, featuring liturgical works by Dominik Nun and Wawrzyniec Neumann, is especially good. Specialist collections should probably subscribe to the whole Musica Claromontana series, but anyone who just wants to dip in could do so very profitably with this volume. (RA) |
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| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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Frauenliebe und -leben; 8 Songs, op. 57 |
| Label: |
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Wigmore Hall Live (dist. Koch)
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Composer:
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Robert Schumann; Johannes Brahms |
| Performer: |
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Lorraine Hunt Lieberson; Julius Drake |
| ISBN: |
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9786312534853 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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05065000924263 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDWGMR0024 |
| Cat.#: |
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WHLive0024 |
| Period: |
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Romantic |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Lorraine Hunt Lieberson's tragic death in 2006 has created a thriving market for documents of her recital performances, and this Wigmore Hall date is among her best. Her glowing mezzo is in its perfect element here (though I wish she had been miked a bit more closely) and these lieder by Brahms and Schumann are a perfect fit for her emotional temperament. (RA) |
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| $11.98 |
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| Title: |
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Asa: Piano Music by Composers of African Descent |
| Label: |
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MSR Classics (dist. Albany)
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Composer:
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Various Composers |
| Performer: |
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William Chapman Nyaho |
| ISBN: |
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9786312536116 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00681585124222 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDMSRCMS1242 |
| Cat.#: |
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MS 1242 |
| Period: |
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Contemporary |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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This is a fascinating and mostly impressive collection of brief pieces for piano by a variety of composers from the worldwide African diaspora; six of the eleven selections are world-premiere recordings. Nyaho is an excellent pianist and gives each piece a bright and enthusiastic reading. Not every composition is top-notch, but many are excellent, and taken together as a survey they provide a very interesting picture of Africa's influence on contemporary art music around the world. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Classical Symphonies: Gossec, Vanhal, Mahaut & Kraus |
| Label: |
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Phoenix Edition (dist. Naxos)
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Composer:
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Various Composers |
| Performer: |
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Cappella Coloniensis / Hans-Martin Linde |
| ISBN: |
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9786312726531 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00811691011745 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDPHNX174 |
| Cat.#: |
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174 |
| Period: |
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Classical |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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Compilation |
| Comments: |
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This is one of a generous spate of midpriced reissue compilations released on the Phoenix Edition label, documenting some of the fine 1980s recordings of Capella Coloniensis under various conductors. This disc offers a charming quartet of symphonies by lesser-known composers of the classical period; the performances and recorded sound are excellent, and the pieces are all delightful. A must for any comprehensive classical collection. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Crai Crai Crai: Music at the Spanish Court of Naples |
| Label: |
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Edition Raumklang (dist. Qualiton)
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Composer:
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Various Composers |
| Performer: |
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Ensemble Oni Wytars |
| ISBN: |
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9786312267058 |
| ISBN-10: |
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6312267059 |
| UPC: |
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00675754008703 |
| Cat.#: |
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RK 2706 |
| Period: |
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Renaissance/Baroque |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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This is the type of album that grows on you with each new listening. Various ensembles are represented here; some feature percussion, others are purely vocal, and all are beautiful in their own right. Little-known composers dominate the collection and it is a keeper. Recommended for all classical collections, at all levels. (MJB) |
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| Title: |
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Works for Cello and Piano |
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Supraphon (dist. Qualiton)
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Composer:
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Bohuslv Martinu; Peter Eben; Lubos Sluka |
| Performer: |
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Tomas Jamnik; Ivo Kahanek |
| ISBN: |
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9786312265580 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00099925394721 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDSUPP3947 |
| Cat.#: |
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SU 3947-2 |
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20th Century |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Usually you expect Czech music to be dark and moody. Not so this collection. It is happy, frivoluos, glorious; all well written pieces, all dating from the 1950s. Well worth owning as part of a chamber music collection or just as an album to put on for the sheer enjoyment of it. Recommended for all collections. (MJB) |
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| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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Synthetic Dances: Music For Oboe |
| Label: |
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Centaur (dist. Qualiton)
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Composer:
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Hendrik Andriessen; Allan Blank; Libby Larsen; John Valerio |
| Performer: |
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Rebecca Shalk Nagel; various accompanists |
| ISBN: |
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9786312266365 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00044747292625 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDCENT2926 |
| Cat.#: |
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CRC 2926 |
| Period: |
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Contemporary |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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This is one of the most enjoyable albums of 21st century music I've picked up in a while. From start to end, Ms. Nagel has chosen a program that is most enjoyable to listen to. I highly recommend it for its playfulness and sheer technical expertise. Highly recommended. (MJB) |
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| Title: |
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Beethoven: Piano Trios No. 3, 5 & 7; Schubert: Piano Trio No. 1 |
| Label: |
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Supraphon
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Composer:
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Ludwig van Beethoven; Franz Schubert |
| Performer: |
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Suk Trio |
| ISBN: |
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9786312265610 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00099925395926 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDSUPP3959 |
| Cat.#: |
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| Period: |
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Romantic |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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Reissue (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
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I am so glad these historic recordings from the early 6os have been preserved in such a pristine condition. The performances are impeccable. The remastering of the recordings themselves brings to light every nuance intended by the preformers. Turn it up! No hiss, no unintended sounds. Just remarkable! Recommended for all who enjoy good classical chamber music. (MJB) |
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| $15.98 |
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| Title: |
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And I Remain: Three Love Stories |
| Label: |
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Origin Classical/City Hall
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Composer:
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Various Composers |
| Performer: |
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Linda Tsatsanis; John Lenti |
| ISBN: |
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9786312686989 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00805553300429 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDOCLS33004 |
| Cat.#: |
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33004 |
| Period: |
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Baroque |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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I had such high hopes for this album. Unfortunately, the soprano completely overpowers the lute throughout, making it impossible to hear that great gelling of the baroque love song with voice and lute accompaniment. Not recommended. (MJB) |
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| COUNTRY/FOLK |
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| Title: |
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The Figs |
| Label: |
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Valcour/Select-O
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Artist:
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Figs |
| ISBN: |
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9786311818213 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00837101372275 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDVLCR3722 |
| Cat.#: |
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VAL-CD-0003 |
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Pop/Rock Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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This six-woman group claims Lafayette, Louisiana as its home, but don’t expect much Cajun music. Taking their clues more from the Carter Family, string bands, and other sources, they combine blues, old-time music, country boogie, and gorgeous harmonies that more often recall the music of North Carolina and Tennessee. They use humor and new as well as old songs to put a fresh spin on the genre. Great vocals, fine musicianship, and lots of fun suggest that you should catch their act if they show up at your local folk festival. (JW) |
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| Title: |
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That Lonesome Song |
| Label: |
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Mercury
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Artist:
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Jamey Johnson |
| ISBN: |
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9786312262282 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00602517687707 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDUMG B001123702 |
| Cat.#: |
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B0011237-02 |
| Genre: |
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Country & Western |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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The minute you put on this CD, you’ll get the feeling you’ve run across some long-lost outlaw album, a cross between Kris Kristofferson, early Steve Earle, and David Allen Coe. Johnson’s deep, soulful voice makes these dark songs come alive and grab you by the throat. Singing about prison, divorce, drugs, love, hope, and God, Johnson is clearly no angel, but he also sees something better beyond his troubles. The fine songs here are mostly his, as is the life they portray. This is an excellent release for fans of hardcore country music. (JW) |
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| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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Winding Highways |
| Label: |
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Ear X-Tacy (dist. Burnside)
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Artist:
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Mickey Clark |
| ISBN: |
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9786312767688 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00612487965422 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDEAX 9654 |
| Cat.#: |
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EARX 9654 2009 |
| Genre: |
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Country |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Clark’s been on the edges of the country music scene for years, collecting stalwart friends like Sam Bush, John Prine, and Jerry Jeff Walker along the way (each appears on this album). From the opening tune, “Red Velvet Cake,” Clark’s songwriting skills shine – the tune evokes home with real emotion without succumbing to stereotype. It has the melody, metaphor, and musicianship to become a country classic -– and the rest of his tunes are just as impressive. He also covers some familiar fare, such as “Louise” and “Night Rider’s Lament.” Recommended. (GH) |
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| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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Echoes of the Mountains |
| Label: |
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Rounder
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Artist:
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Dry Branch Fire Squad |
| ISBN: |
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9786312703167 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00011661057425 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECD116 6105742 |
| Cat.#: |
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11661-0574-2 |
| Genre: |
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Bluegrass |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Bandleader Ron Thomason characterizes his group as being "on the bluegrass side," and that's about right. Over the course of 32 years the Dry Branch Fire Squad still gets billed as bluegrass, but in fact their sound has aged and mellowed, along with Thomason's uniquely and wonderfully creaky voice, into a unique country-old-time-bluegrass hybrid. There are no surprises on Echoes of the Mountains, just the usual assortment of startling adaptations ("O Captain! My Captain!"), humorous asides ("When You See Those Flying Saucers"), gospel gems ("Power in the Blood") and quietly powerful social observations ("Rider on an Orphan Train"). It would be tempting to say that nobody does this stuff like the DBFS do, but the simple fact is that nobody else really does this stuff at all. (RA) |
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| $15.98 |
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| Title: |
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Darryl Holter |
| Label: |
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213 Music (dist. Burnside)
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Artist:
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Darryl Holter |
| ISBN: |
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9786312768173 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00641444032327 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECD213M001 |
| Cat.#: |
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none |
| Genre: |
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Pop/Rock Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Minnesota singer/songwriter Holter’s activist roots and labor history scholarship shape his songwriting, and this CD is a collection of songs that range from serious songs about social issues (“Living on the Edge”) to fun rockers (“Don’t Touch My Chevy”). Musically, this CD packs quite a punch, with Wilco guitarist Nels Cline and steel guitar wizard Greg Leisz helping shape the overall sound. An impressive first CD. (GH) |
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| Title: |
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The Unreleased Recordings |
| Label: |
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Time Life Music
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Artist:
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Hank Williams |
| ISBN: |
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9786312517528 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00610583246025 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDTLIF80031 |
| Cat.#: |
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80031-D |
| Genre: |
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Country & Western |
| Release type: |
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Boxed Set (3-discs) |
| Comments: |
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It's difficult to overstate the importance of the previously-unreleased 1951 radio transcriptions contained in this boxed set. In 1951 Williams made 72 recordings for early-morning broadcast on WSM Radio, and they include not only his own hits but also a rich array of traditional and gospel numbers -- including the most moving and soulful rendition of "On Top of Old Smoky" you're ever likely to hear. The sound is sharp and clear, the performances magnificent. Utterly essential. (RA) |
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| JAZZ |
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| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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Lifeboat |
| Label: |
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Abstract Logix (dist. City Hall)
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Artist:
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Jimmy Herring |
| ISBN: |
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9786312275695 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00827912080575 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDABTL13 |
| Cat.#: |
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ABLX 013 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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The guitarist for Widespread Panic puts on his jazz fusion clothes and goes to work with a fine ensemble, including guest appearances by Derek Trucks on slide guitar and Grege Osby on sax. On these mostly originals by Herring or by Kofi Burbridge (piano and flute), the group often rocks out, but other times plays with delicacy, focusing on the interplay and contrast of instruments. Osby and Burbridge provide variety and prevent the set from becoming too guitar-heavy. This is an excellent album that will be enjoyed by both jazz and rock fans. (JW) |
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| $12.97 |
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| Title: |
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The Moon and the Lady Dancing |
| Label: |
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Michael Higgins
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Artist:
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Michael Higgins |
| UPC: |
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796873073547 |
| Cat.#: |
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201854 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Three veteran musicians get together for this guitar-dominated set. With bassist Jay Anderson and drummer Adam Nussbaum, Higgins explores a variety of subdued, mostly original composition. He touches on bop, Americana, and other styles, combining elements with his echoing, ethereal sound. Laid back and highly melodic, this one will be enjoyed by any fan of guitar-based jazz. (JW) |
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| Title: |
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Straight No Chaser |
| Label: |
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Jazzheads (dist. Allegro)
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Artist:
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Mark Weinstein |
| ISBN: |
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9786312148210 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00809819116120 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDJZHD1161 |
| Cat.#: |
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JH 1161 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Latin jazz flautist and philosopher Weinstein heads for straight ahead styles this time out, and the results are superbly entertaining. He combines originals with tunes by Monk, Shorter, and Rollins, and his compositions do not suffer by comparison. Trading solos with Dave Stryker on guitar give the music variety and a light, airy feel on both ballads and when going full steam ahead. With a fine rhythm section in support, this album should find him many new fans. (JW) |
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| Title: |
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Force Of Four |
| Label: |
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Origin
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Artist:
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Joe Locke |
| ISBN: |
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9786312284079 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00805558251122 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDORGN82511 |
| Cat.#: |
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82511 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Vibraphonist Joe Locke has been steadily turning out recordings for many years, of consistently high quality, and this latest release is no exception. The vibraphonist and his friends present us with a variety of hard- to post-bop tunes, some gentle and floating, others wild and frenetic, but all gorgeously played. With Robert Rodriguez on piano, a great rhythm section, and a bit of spice from sax and trumpet, the ensemble works together with great spirit and energy. But the vibes rule and set the tone, making this album a fine display of Locke’s craftsmanship. It’s a definite winner. (JW) |
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| Title: |
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Radio Show |
| Label: |
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Telarc Jazz
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Artist:
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Tony Desare |
| ISBN: |
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9786312693147 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00089408368929 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDTELA83689 |
| Cat.#: |
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CD-83689 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Singer and pianist Tony Desare has one of the most perfect voices in jazz today, and his latest is an utterly charming tribute to the jazz radio programs of the 1940s and 1950s, complete with between-song DJ patter. He gets a star for the bossa nova version of New Order's "Bizarre Love Triangle," complete with Portuguese interlude. (RA) |
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| $18.95 |
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| Title: |
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Brother to Brother |
| Label: |
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Artists Share
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Artist:
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Clayton Brothers |
| Performer: |
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Clayton Brothers |
| Cat.#: |
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AS0085 |
| Genre: |
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Mainstream Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Brother to Brother is the Clayton Brothers’ (bassist John and saxophonist Jeff) tribute to the “great brother groups” in jazz, such as the Adderley, Jones, and Montgomery siblings. The music is solid bop, played with passion and wit, with talent to spare. A great recording that will please any mainstream jazz fan. Highly recommended. (GH) |
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| $12.97 |
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| Title: |
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The Scent of Bitter Almonds… |
| Label: |
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Ardijenn Music
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Artist:
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Leonisa Ardizzone Quintet |
| UPC: |
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884501061537 |
| Cat.#: |
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314119 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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This part-time jazz singer combines her gigs with full time nonprofit work and education. Here, she has the name of the group, but they’re not just her backing band: they form a cohesive whole, with Ardizzone being one element of a guitar, piano, bass, drums, and vocal quintet. Of course, she stands out, and does it well with her delighted-to-be-here, swinging, scatting vocals. Guitarist Chris Jennings is the producer and sometime composer. There’s a lot of nice soloing room for everyone, and overall, this is a finely conceived and executed set. (JW) |
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| $49.98 |
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| Title: |
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To Be Free: The Nina Simone Story |
| Label: |
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RCA
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Artist:
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Nina Simone |
| ISBN: |
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9786312430414 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00886971100921 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDRCA 11009 |
| Cat.#: |
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88697110092 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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Boxed Set (4-discs) |
| Comments: |
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This is a beautifully produced four-disc set that chronicles the music of Nina Simone from 1957-1993. It includes extensive liner notes and many black and white photographs. The fourth disc is a DVD that contains an Emmy-nominated TV program from 1970 which features Nina in performances and interviews.(PS) |
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| $20.00 |
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| Title: |
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Live in Graz |
| Label: |
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Artists Recording Collective
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Artist:
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Lee Shaw |
| Performer: |
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Lee Shaw Trio |
| UPC: |
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893682002062 |
| Cat.#: |
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ARC 2062 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
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Veteran pianist Shaw, a keyboard whiz in her 80’s, shows her chops and experience on this live trio disc. The set focuses on Shaw’s originals, but also features covers of Billy Taylor and Ahmad Jamal compositions. Shaw’s a warm, romantic pianist, and the trio’s playing is elegant and engaging. Shaw’s graceful demeanor and quiet command of the jazz idiom recall Marian McPartland, another veteran piano master and jazz ambassador. An additional DVD is packed with features and interviews. Recommended. (GH)
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| ROCK/POP |
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| Title: |
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Sugar Mountain: Live At Canterbury House 1968 |
| Label: |
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Reprise
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Artist:
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Neil Young |
| ISBN: |
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9786312561309 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00093624983989 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDWARN516758 |
| Cat.#: |
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516758 |
| Genre: |
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Pop/Rock Music |
| Release type: |
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New (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
Neil Young continues to mine his archives, and what stunning artifacts come from within! This solo live album dates from 1968, when he was 22 years old and just about to release his first solo album. He plays Buffalo Springfield songs (“Mr. Soul,” “Broken Arrow”) tunes from his upcoming album (“The Loner,” “The Old Laughing Lady”), and the title track, his brilliant coming-of-age-ode. Young is relaxed and chatty, revealing a comfortable, witty charm on the introductions to nearly every song. An essential early recording from one of our most important rock musicians. Very highly recommended. (GH) |
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| $12.98 |
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| Title: |
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A Good Day |
| Label: |
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Blue Note
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Artist:
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Priscilla Ahn |
| ISBN: |
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9786312118039 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00094639528325 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDBNOT95283 |
| Cat.#: |
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0946 3 95283 2 5 |
| Genre: |
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Pop/Rock Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
A multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter, Ahn is new at the game, but this debut album is an indicator of good things to come. With a soft, supple soprano, she hints at a number of influences ranging from Joni Mitchell to the Beatles, but her sound is unique. Her bittersweet songs have an ethereal quality, which is helped by a number of backing musicians, and some unusual choices in instrumentation, such as ukulele, musical saw, vibes, and glockenspiel. This is a very enjoyable set, and she may find a wide audience beyond her age group. (JW) |
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| Title: |
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Murmur (Deluxe Edition) |
| Label: |
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I.R.S.
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Artist:
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R.E.M. |
| ISBN: |
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9786312552215 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00602517882881 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDUMG B001225102 |
| Cat.#: |
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B0012251-02 |
| Genre: |
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Pop/Rock Music |
| Release type: |
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Reissue (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
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Although the list price seems a little bit high, it would be hard to argue that this deluxe reissue of R.E.M.'s debut LP isn't worth every penny. First of all is the remastered album itself, which sounds noticeably clearer and sharper. Second is the startlingly fine live recording contained on the second disc; these are almost invariably disappointing, but in this case the band is in brilliant form. Stipe is flat on "Harborcoat" and there are ragged moments, but they're almost alway ragged in exactly the right ways. Very highly recommended. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Noble Beast |
| Label: |
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Fat Possum (dist. Red)
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Artist:
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Andrew Bird |
| ISBN: |
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9786312699392 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00767981112428 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDFTPS1124 |
| Cat.#: |
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11242 |
| Genre: |
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Pop/Rock Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Besides being an obscenely talented musician-composer (violinist-singer-whistler), the sometime Squirrel Nut Zipper is also an exceptional wordsmith. His lyrics are as idiosyncratic, literate, and eccentric as the music itself. His unique mixture of folk, gypsy, swing, pop, even wisps of cowboy noir, and lots of other things creates its own universe. The orchestrations are rich and intricately woven so that the whole is a kind of elaborate chamber pop. Yet, for all its ingeniously employed layers, the whole is a warmly austere, cinematic tapestry. (TWB) |
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 |
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| $21.99 |
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| Title: |
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Hit By Hit |
| Label: |
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Corporate Image (dist. Redeye)
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Artist:
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Godfathers |
| ISBN: |
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9786312452171 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00823566473428 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDCRPE30 |
| Cat.#: |
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GFTRCD030 |
| Genre: |
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Pop/Rock Music |
| Release type: |
|
Reissue (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
The opening tracks of this 1986 debut are a one-two punch documenting Thatcher-era England. But with the searing twin guitar attack of Kris Dollimore and Mike Gibson, the band was a throwback to not only early British punk but also the brusque British rock of early ‘60s. “John Barry” is credible spy-theme homage to the soundtrack master. The desperation in Peter Coyne’s vocals puts a unique stamp on their cover of “Cold Turkey.” This two-disc reissue supplements the original release with live and radio sessions and rarities. (MC) |
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|
 |
| |
| $15.98 |
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| |
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| Title: |
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Merriweather Post Pavilion |
| Label: |
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Domino (dist. ADA)
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Artist:
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Animal Collective |
| ISBN: |
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9786312685418 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00801390021923 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDDOMN00219 |
| Cat.#: |
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DNO 219P |
| Genre: |
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Pop/Rock Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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With liberal use of echo and hypnotic repetition, this Baltimore quartet has created a headphone-friendly psychedelic dreamscape on its ninth album. Dense with layers of synthesizers, the effect is swirling and shimmering. “Lion in a Coma” is elastic and bouncy, whereas standout track “Summertime Clothes,” is mesmerizingly propulsive despite, or perhaps due to, the simplicity of the sentiment, “I want to walk around with you,” as the main element of the chorus. (MC) |
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|
 |
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| $24.98 |
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| |
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| Title: |
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Songs For Beginners |
| Label: |
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Rhino
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Artist:
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Graham Nash |
| ISBN: |
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9786312381631 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00081227994938 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDRHIN352572 |
| Cat.#: |
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R2 352572 |
| Genre: |
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Pop/Rock Music |
| Release type: |
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Reissue (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
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Released in 1971 during the heyday of Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young’s immense popularity, Graham Nash’s solo outing is a quietly engaging set of songs. Nash was the British romantic of CSNY, noted for such tunes as “Our House” and “Teach Your Children,” and his solo album continues in this same romantic vein. The album has two political bookends, opening with the autobiographical “Miltary Madness” and closing with “Chicago,” with a series of introspective love songs sandwiched in between, mostly documenting his breakup with Joni Mitchell. It’s a classic of 70’s singer-songwriter fare, one that stands up very well today. Rhino’s digipak includes a CD and a 5.1 DVD recording of the original LP. (GH) |
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| Title: |
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Alight of Night |
| Label: |
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Slumberland (dist. Revolver)
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Artist:
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Crystal Stilts |
| ISBN: |
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9786312472988 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00749846208422 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDSLMB84 |
| Cat.#: |
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SLR 84 |
| Genre: |
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Pop/Rock Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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On the surface it often sounds gloomy, druggy, psychedelic, but underneath one senses energy and schemes that are sinister, giddy, at least mischievous, or all of the above. The Crystal Stilts deliberately wear their influences on their sleeves and their taste is impeccable indeed, pushing all the right buttons. Early Mary Chain, twee (K Records, anyone?), C86, early Rough Trade releases, the Velvets, fuzzy lo-fi production – it’s all there. Yet it doesn’t come out sounding derivative, but fresh and (darkly) post-punk fun. (TWB) |
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| Title: |
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Microcastle |
| Label: |
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Kranky (dist. Revolver)
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Artist:
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Deerhunter |
| ISBN: |
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9786312399247 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00796441812721 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDKNKY127 |
| Cat.#: |
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KRANK 127 |
| Genre: |
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Pop/Rock Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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This is one of those “rock” records that blurs the line between experimental pop and formal composition and deserves serious consideration by composers and rockers alike. It is an epic, stylistically eclectic, emotionally complex wild ride of an album that Messrs. Eno, Fripp, and Byrne would be proud to have made. So inventive, eccentrically intelligent, and emotionally complex (yet accessible!) is their work here it makes perfect sense that they are on the prestigious 4AD label in the UK, (and Kranky in the USA). The companion disc, Weird Era Cont., is more experimental and, while not as even, is filled with more intriguing ideas and moments of ecstatic beauty than most “proper” albums. One of the most rewarding listens of 2008. (TWB) |
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 |
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| $18.98 |
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| Title: |
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Working on a Dream |
| Label: |
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Columbia
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Artist:
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Bruce Springsteen |
| ISBN: |
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9786312642664 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00886974135524 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDCOLM41355 |
| Cat.#: |
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88697 41355 2 |
| Genre: |
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Pop/Rock Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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This CD start with “Outlaw Pete,” a rollicking Springsteen-penned ballad packed with folk imagery, setting the stage for CD filled with great performances across a varied range of styles. The E Street Band shines on the anthemic tunes, with guitars ringing, keyboards banging, and drums pounding, evoking their iconic albums of the 70s and 80s. But a lot of water has passed under the bridge, and you’ll find Springsteen digging into the blues, skiffle, and the aforementioned folk realms for inspiration. Very nice. (GH) |
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| WORLD/ETHNIC |
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| Title: |
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Niney the Observer: Roots with Quality |
| Label: |
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17 North Parade
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Artist:
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Various Artists |
| ISBN: |
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9786312709671 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00054645414821 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDVP 4148 |
| Cat.#: |
|
VP4148 |
| Genre: |
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Reggae |
| Release type: |
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Compilation (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
Producer Winston "Niney" Holness is one of the true heroes of the roots reggae period. He made brilliant recordings with superstars like Gregory Isaacs, the Heptones, and Dennis Brown, but also championed equally worthy artists who never achieved the same heights of success, and those provide some of the finest moments on this excellent two-disc retrospective: Tyrone Taylor's "Sufferation" remains a minor roots classic, and Sang Hugh's "Rasta No Born Yah" is a little-known gem. This collection is all killer, no filler, and should find a place in any comprehensive reggae collection. (RA) |
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|
 |
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| $11.98 |
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| |
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| Title: |
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Mr. McGregor |
| Label: |
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17 North Parade
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Artist:
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Freddie McGregor |
| ISBN: |
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9786312693086 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00054645414920 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECD17NP4149 |
| Cat.#: |
|
VP 4149 |
| Genre: |
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Reggae |
| Release type: |
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Reissue |
| Comments: |
|
Freddie McGregor is one of the best singers to have emerged from Jamaica's incredibly fertile 1970s reggae scene. This 1979 album has never been released before on CD, and is presented here with seven bonus tracks and four extended mixes, creating a program that covers nearly the entirety of his output under the supervision of the brilliant producer Winston "Niney" Holness. While perhaps not an essential purchase for every collection, reggae specialists should not hesitate to snap this one up. (RA) |
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 |
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| $16.98 |
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| |
|
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| Title: |
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A Tribute to Gonzalo Ascencio |
| Label: |
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Smithsonian Folkways
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Artist:
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Puntilla y El Conjunto Todo Rumbero: A Tribute to Gonzalo Ascencio "Tio Tom" 1919-1991 |
| ISBN: |
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9786311817629 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00093074054321 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDFOLK740543 |
| Cat.#: |
|
SFW CD 40543 |
| Genre: |
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Latin |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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This release is devoted to the polyrhythmic sounds of traditional rumba, as it evolved in Cuba, and as epitomized by one of its greatest legends. Tío Tom wrote hundreds of rumba pieces, and nine are presented here by Orlando “Puntilla” Ríos y el Conjunto Todo Rumbero. The rhythms are mesmerizing, and the group’s work is outstanding. Notes on the history of the style and Asencio are very useful. Anyone who wants to hear authentic rumba, or who would like to explore the roots of Afro-Cuban music should hear this. (JW) |
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| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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Guitars From Agadez (Music of Niger) |
| Label: |
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Sublime Frequencies (dist. Forced Exposure)
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Artist:
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Group Inerane |
| ISBN: |
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9786312417279 |
| ISBN-10: |
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|
| UPC: |
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00751937340522 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDSBMF34 |
| Cat.#: |
|
34 |
| Genre: |
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African |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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We haven’t heard much music from Niger, but Group Inerane is another example of Tuareg guitar music, so they’re related to groups like Tinariwen and fit very generally into the style that’s come to be called "desert blues." But this stuff is super intense, consisting of sharp 3/8-time grooves with high-pitched ululations from the female vocalists that sometimes cross the line from ecstatic to frightening. And there’s even one track that sounds like the Velvet Underground. A bit off the beaten track, so not for the casual collector of African music, but fascinating stuff for those who want to delve further into it. (SA) |
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| $19.98 |
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| Title: |
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Vasco |
| Label: |
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Perlon (dist. Forced Exposure)
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Artist:
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Ricardo Villalobos |
| ISBN: |
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9786312624141 |
| ISBN-10: |
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|
| UPC: |
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00661956356926 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDPRLN069 |
| Cat.#: |
|
69 |
| Genre: |
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Electronica |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
Chilean-German producer Ricardo Villalobos makes his living mostly as a DJ these days, and his own recorded output has never been very large or steady. Like most DJs, what music he does issue tends to be on vinyl, and Vasco first saw light as a two-part 12” EP. Finally and thankfully Perlon has very quietly released it as a CD, and it is a worthy follow-up to his Fabric mix CD and the amazing Fizheuer Zieheuer album. This is minimal techno, with very little in the way of melody or obvious dancefloor appeal, and listeners will take a while to decide whether this is at the forefront of electronic music or just its outer limits. (SA) |
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| $34.98 |
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| Title: |
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Soul Jazz Records Presents Dancehall: The Rise Of Jamaican Dancehall Culture |
| Label: |
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Soul Jazz
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Artist:
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|
Various Artists |
| ISBN: |
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9786312744573 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
05026328201962 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDPHAM1435606 |
| Cat.#: |
|
|
| Genre: |
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Reggae |
| Release type: |
|
Compilation (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
I haven’t read Stuart Baker’s book, Dancehall: The Rise of Jamaican Dancehall Culture, but the Soul Jazz label’s companion CD is dynamite. Dancehall is the style of music that evolved out of reggae after its late 70s peak, going on to become the dominant style of popular music in Jamaica. It’s rougher than reggae, more electronic, eventually influencing and being influenced by hip-hop. As hard as it may be to condense such a productive musical culture for the newcomer, even with two long CDs, still this collection does as good a job as you’re going to find. (SA) |
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© CD HotList 2004 |
