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August 2009
Look for "Rick's Pick" 
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| CLASSICAL |
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| Title: |
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Historia Sancti Eadmundi / Roberto Spremulli, La Reverdie |
| Label: |
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Arcana (dist. Allegro)
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Composer:
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Anonymous |
| Performer: |
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La Reverdie / Roberto Spremulli |
| ISBN: |
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9786313035670 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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08033891690137 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDACN 346 |
| Cat.#: |
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A346 |
| Period: |
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Medieval |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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This is one of those CDs that you'll purchase for its historical significance (it's a partial recreation of a medieval liturgical drama in commemoration of the Saxon king Eadmond Wylfing, the first Saint Protector of England) but will keep returning to for its strange but unassailable beauty. Hand-sell this one to patrons who are fans of Hildegard von Bingen's Ordo Virtutem, or who know they like Gregorian chant and are ready to branch out just a bit. La Reverdie's performance is excellent, and the liner notes are extensive and informative. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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The Celtic Viol: An Homage to the Irish and Scottish Musical Traditions |
| Label: |
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Alia Vox (dist. Harmonia Mundi)
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Composer:
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Jordi Savall |
| ISBN: |
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9786312993032 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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07619986398655 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDALV AVSA9865 |
| Cat.#: |
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AVSA 9865 |
| Period: |
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Classical |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Technically, this isn't really a classical disc at all -- it features the great viola da gamba player Jordi Savall, joined by harper Andrew Lawrence-King, playing traditional Celtic tunes and pieces by the Irish composer Turlough O'Carolan on the treble viol. However, its marketing is aimed primarily at the classical (specifically the early music) audience that knows and loves Savall, and it should appeal to them greatly. Savall plays these relatively simple tunes with both energy and tenderness, and without the slightest condescension. His approach to phrasing and ornaments is deeply informed by his background in Renaissance and baroque music, and sheds something of a new light on these lovely pieces. Very highly recommended. (RA) |
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| $16.99 |
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| Title: |
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The Tastes Reunited |
| Label: |
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Les Delices
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Composer:
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Various Composers |
| Performer: |
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Les Delices / Debra Nagy |
| UPC: |
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700261272788 |
| Cat.#: |
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| Period: |
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Baroque |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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The title of this album is a play on les gouts reunis, the subtitle to one of Francois Couperin's collections of "royal concerts," which was intended to bring together the competing French and Italian styles of chamber music. Along with sonatas by Couperin, this utterly charming disc also features works by Pierre Danican Philidor, Louis-Nicolas Clerambault, Louis-Antoine Dornel, Francesco Corbetta, and a never-before-recorded suite for oboe and continuo by Couperin's student Francois Chauvon. Baroque oboist Debra Nagy leads this very fine group, and her playing is really quite special; the Chauvon piece alone is worth the cost of the album. Highly recommended to all classical collections. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Lyric pieces, books I-IV |
| Label: |
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Centaur
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Composer:
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Edvard Grieg |
| Performer: |
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Antonio Pompa-Baldi |
| ISBN: |
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9786312790853 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00044747293028 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDCENT2930 |
| Cat.#: |
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CRC 2930 |
| Period: |
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Romantic |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Grieg's exceptionally beautiful Lyric Pieces for Piano constitute one of the cornerstones of his oeuvre; each short piece is a gem in its own right. As excruciatingly beautiful as Mendelssohn's Songs without Words, these pieces are also a cornerstone in the piano repertoire generally. Some of the pieces are technically very easy but require exceptional amounts of expression, while others are very technically demanding requiring precision as well as expression. Antonio Pompa-Baldi won the silver medal in the 2001 Van Cliburn Competition and this recording makes it easy to see why. The performances of all these pieces pull the listener in and transports them to another place. Excellent compositions in exceptionally memorable performances. Recommended for all collections. (MJB) |
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| Title: |
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Mindru Katz Plays French Masterworks by Faure, Debussy & Ravel |
| Label: |
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Cembal d'Amour (dist Qualiton)
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Composer:
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Gabriel Faure; Claude Debussy; Maurice Ravel |
| Performer: |
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Mindru Katz |
| ISBN: |
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9786312737353 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00798167997621 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDCDAR138 |
| Cat.#: |
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CD 138 |
| Period: |
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20th Century |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New/Reissue |
| Comments: |
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Mindru Katz, who died in 1978, made these recordings in the 1960s and early seventies. His approach to Debussy is especially striking. When most pianists approach Debussy as an Impressionist, Katz's interpretation has great clarity and sharpness. It is a delight to hear this recording of the entire Book I of the Preludes. His approach to Ravel is similar; here he plays the Sonatina and the "Laideronette-Imperatrice de Pagodes" from the Mother Goose Suite. Faure's Nocturne in D flat op. 63 no. 6 opens this wonderful collection of French piano music played by a master of the piano who died much too soon. Recommended for all collections. (MJB) |
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| Title: |
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Major Works For the Piano, Volume 2 |
| Label: |
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Newport Classics
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Composer:
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Seymour Lipkin |
| ISBN: |
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9786312690979 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00032466017629 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDNEWP60176 |
| Cat.#: |
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NCD 60176/2 |
| Period: |
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Romantic |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
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With Schubert, the temptation is always to overplay -- to exaggerate the death-stalked romanticism of the doomed young man and milk his compositions for every drop of overwrought emotion. Seymour Lipkin sees more than pathos in Schubert's music, though: he sees the delicate classicism that underlies the emotion, and he brings out both with supreme care and skill. This Schubert series is really quite special and can be confidently recommended to all classical collections. (RA) |
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| $16.98 |
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| Title: |
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String Quartets |
| Label: |
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Cavi-Music (dist. Allegro)
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Composer:
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Franz Krommer |
| Performer: |
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Marcolini Quartet |
| ISBN: |
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9786312813897 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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04260085531424 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDCVMS8553142 |
| Cat.#: |
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8553142 |
| Period: |
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Classical/Romantic |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Even if they weren't such a joy to listen to, Franz Krommer's quartets would be a valuable window on the transitional period between the high classicism of Haydn's and the forward-looking romanticism of Beethoven's. However, they are indeed a great pleasure to hear, especially when played by an ensemble as expert as the Marcolini Quartet (playing on period instruments). (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Les Quatuors Oeuvres 33 & 42 |
| Label: |
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Arcana (dist. Allegro)
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Composer:
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Franz Joseph Haydn |
| Performer: |
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Festetics Quartet |
| ISBN: |
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9786312993810 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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08033891690007 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDACN 414 |
| Cat.#: |
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A 414 |
| Period: |
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Classical |
| Genre: |
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Classical |
| Release type: |
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New (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
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2009 marks the 200th anniversary of Haydn's death, and to mark the occasion the Festetics Quartet is working through the entirety of Haydn's imposing string quartet catalog. This is one of the finest period-instrument chamber ensembles working today, and the group makes brisk and crisp work of these six quartets without sacrificing emotional detail or glossing over the fascinating structural innovations of, in particular, the second and third quartets of Opus 33. The entire series is recommended to all classical collections. (RA) |
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| COUNTRY/FOLK |
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| $16.98 |
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| Title: |
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Irish Pirate Ballads and Other Songs of The Sea |
| Label: |
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Folkways
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Artist:
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Dan Milner |
| ISBN: |
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9786312740964 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00093074055328 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDFOLK740553 |
| Cat.#: |
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SFW CD 40553 |
| Genre: |
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Celtic |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Perhaps “Pirate Ballads” is a slight exaggeration, as this release includes songs of sailors and other maritime topics too. Dan Milner, Irish-American musician, folk song collector, and cultural geographer, has put together this collection of thirteen songs with the help of many friends, including Mick Moloney and Robbie O’Connell. The selection is varied in style, including an a cappella version of “The Flying Cloud” that is very moving, and in mood, from tragic to silly. Finely sung and played, this collection will be enjoyed by Irish and folk music fans alike. (JW) |
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| Title: |
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Dave Alvin and The Guilty Women |
| Label: |
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Yep Roc (dist. Redeye)
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Artist:
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Dave Alvin and The Guilty Women |
| ISBN: |
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9786312925507 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00634457215528 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDYP 2155 |
| Cat.#: |
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2155 |
| Genre: |
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Country/Rock |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Grammy award-winning roots rock veteran Dave Alvin continues to follow his own winding path with his 2009 release, Dave Alvin and the Guilty Women. This all-star cast of female musicians (Cindy Cashdollar, Nina Gerber, Laurie Lewis, Christy McWilson, Sarah Brown, Amy Farris and Lisa Pankratz) are sensitive collaborators and heighten the emotional power of Alvin’s baritone. The instrumental leads are primarily performed by Cashdollar, Gerber, and Lewis and lead vocals are shared with McWilson and Farris. The songs seem personally meaningful to Alvin and the whole album rewards repeated listening. (CLHD) |
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| Title: |
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Sex & Gasoline |
| Label: |
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Work Song/Yep Roc (dist. Redeye)
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Artist:
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Rodney Crowell |
| ISBN: |
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9786312372677 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00634457218727 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDYP 2187 |
| Cat.#: |
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2187 |
| Genre: |
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Contemporary Folk/Americana |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Singer-songwriter Rodney Crowell has long been known for crafting songs with some of the most literate and interesting lyrics to come out of Nashville. While Crowell still maintains a home in Nashville, this release shows few of the Nashville trappings. The production is relatively stripped-down, the lyrics are edgy, and Crowell doesn’t choose to over-accentuate the “country” in his accent. This album was nominated for the Grammy for Best Contemporary Folk/Americana Album of the year and it’s easy to see why. (CLHD) |
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| Title: |
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My Turn |
| Label: |
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Saguaro Road/Time Life
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Artist:
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Tanya Tucker |
| ISBN: |
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9786312865186 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00610583295825 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDTLIF24553 |
| Cat.#: |
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24553 |
| Genre: |
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Country & Western |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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In case you've forgotten what a great singer Tanya Tucker is, check out this understatedly brilliant collection of new versions of songs previously recorded by men: "Lovesick Blues," "Crazy Arms," "Big, Big Love," etc. Yes, you've heard all of them a million times -- but you haven't heard any of them sung by Tucker with this kind of no-nonsense honky-tonk accompaniment. Three tracks into it I was sure it was the best country album I'd heard all year. By the end there was no question. (RA) |
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| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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Ring The Bell |
| Label: |
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Compass
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Artist:
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Gibson Brothers |
| ISBN: |
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9786312917113 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00766397450629 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDCOMS974506 |
| Cat.#: |
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4506 |
| Genre: |
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Bluegrass |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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The Gibson Brothers have always taken a slightly off-center approach to bluegrass -- not "progressive," exactly, but just a bit sonically unusual. On Ring the Bell they somehow manage to simultaneously expand their sound and bring it into closer conformity with tradition by employing a full band throughout the album and picking somewhat unusual song themes. Watch for hints of psychotherapy and a Tom Petty cover. Very nice. (RA) |
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| $20.98 |
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| Title: |
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Dancing Alone: Songs of William Hawkins |
| Label: |
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True North
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Artist:
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Various Artists |
| ISBN: |
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9786312928027 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00620638051924 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDTNRTTND519 |
| Cat.#: |
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TND 519 |
| Genre: |
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Folk Music |
| Release type: |
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New (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
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Songwriter/poet William Hawkins was major creative force in the Ottawa, Canada music scene back in the 1960s, influencing Bruce Cockburn and many other musicians along the way. And while other Canadians such as Joni Mitchell, Neil Young, and Leonard Cohen went on to careers in the US, Hawkins quit the music scene, started driving a cab, and wrote poetry. This two CD set is a tribute to his 1960s songs, and features Cockburn, Lynn Miles, Sandy Crawley, Ian Tamblyn, Sneezy Waters, and other Canadian singers bringing Hawkins’ remarkably strong catalog back to life. It’s great to hear this fine songwriter’s work, aptly handled by some of Canada’s finest musicians, many of whom count Hawkins one of their musical heroes. (GH) |
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| JAZZ |
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| Title: |
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Five Peace Band Live |
| Label: |
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Concord Jazz
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Artist:
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Chick Corea and John McLaughlin |
| ISBN: |
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9786312901983 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00888072313972 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDCONJ31397 |
| Cat.#: |
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CRE-31397-02 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
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Alumni of Miles Davis’ seminal fusion album Bitches Brew, jazz/fusion elder statesmen John McLaughlin and Chick Corea were present at the creation of fusion. Each led two of the genre's most influential and respected bands: McLaughlin broke guitar speed and intensity records with his Mahavishnu Orchestra, while keyboardist Corea blazed an equally fierce electric jazz trail with his band Return to Forever. That’s quite a legacy to bring to the stage with this live album, which more than lives up to expectations. The fusion tunes are dazzling, creative, wonderfully played excursions for Corea and McLaughlin’s seemingly endless pool of creativity. They’re joined by saxophonist Kenny Garrett, who adds his own pyrotechnics, and driven by the brilliant drummer Vinnie Colaiuta and bassist Christian McBride. But masters of this caliber don’t just stick to fusion – there’s balladry tossed in, plus a blistering, boppish take on Jackie McLean’s "Dr. Jackle." This is two CDs of live jazz at its finest. Very highly recommended. (GH) |
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| Title: |
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Cantando |
| Label: |
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ECM
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Artist:
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Bobo Stenson Trio |
| ISBN: |
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9786312401179 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00602517754621 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDUMG B001184502 |
| Cat.#: |
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2023 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Swedish pianist Stenson works with bassist Anders Jormin and drummer Jon Fäit on his latest release, to create a quiet, spacious, yet complex album of mostly other people’s compositions. Some of these include pieces by Don Cherry, Ornette Coleman, and even Alban Berg, so you know that some experimental work is going on here, some of it reminiscent of modernist classical music, as well as free jazz. While the gorgeous piano work takes the central role on most tracks, Jormin takes solos and occasional leads on bass, bowing for melody, and sometimes upstaging Stenson. Another fine release by Stenson. (JW) |
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| Title: |
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Mirages |
| Label: |
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Criss Cross Imports
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Artist:
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Alex Sipiagin |
| ISBN: |
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9786312686781 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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08712474131129 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDCCRO1311 |
| Cat.#: |
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CRISS 1311 CD |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Drawing on Woody Shaw and other post-bop trumpeters, and influenced by years with the Mingus Orchestra, Sipiagin has been releasing a series of albums on Criss Cross that are top of the line. This one brings him together with Mulgrew Miller, piano, and Seamus Blake, tenor sax. Sipiagin’s playing is clear, warm, and emotional, and he has a fondness for unusual rhythms and polyphony that keep the attention of the listener. He and Blake harmonize and interweave exquisitely in a complex mating of instruments, reminding one of a hot night in a great club. Highly satisfying. (JW) |
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| $16.98 |
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| Title: |
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Stickadiboom |
| Label: |
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Zoho (dist. Allegro)
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Artist:
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Steve Haines Quintet with Jimmy Cobb |
| ISBN: |
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9786312814849 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00880956090320 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDZHOR200903 |
| Cat.#: |
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ZM 200903 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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This disc would be worth the price if only because it features legendary drummer Jimmy Cobb, the sole surviving participant in Miles Davis's Kind of Blue sessions. But bassist and leader Steve Haines contributes just as much with his sharp, joyful compositions, and everyone in the band blows brilliantly. Great, straight-ahead hard bop, highly recommended. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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When The Heart Dances |
| Label: |
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Naim (dist. Allegro)
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Artist:
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Laurence Hobgood |
| ISBN: |
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9786313101320 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00797537111223 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDNAIM112 |
| Cat.#: |
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NAIMCD112 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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This is a lovely collection of standards and originals, performed by pianist Laurence Hobgood with bassist Charlie Haden and, on several tracks, singer Kurt Elling. The focus is on ballads, and even the more uptempo numbers have a gentle, elegiac feel to them, as is often the case with piano-bass duet projects. Elling's vocals are restrained and elegant, with plenty of rhythmic freedom and a tastefully understated vibrato. Very, very nice. (RA) |
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| $16.98 |
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| Title: |
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Metamorphosen |
| Label: |
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Marsalis Music
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Artist:
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Branford Marsalis Quartet |
| ISBN: |
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9786312805427 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00874946001106 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECD749 4600110 |
| Cat.#: |
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74946-0011-0 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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When a Marsalis is in charge you know that the blowing will be virtuosic and the writing will be impressive. Although in this case, it's the various members of his group who wrote almost everything; Marsalis wrote the charmingly splayed "Jabberwocky," and of course Thelonious Monk wrote the even better "Rhythm-a-ning." Best of all, these guys have been playing together for a decade now, and it shows in the incredible tightness and warmth of their ensemble sound. (RA) |
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| $19.98 |
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| Title: |
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Vertical Ascent |
| Label: |
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Honest Jon's (dist. Forced Exposure)
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Artist:
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Moritz Von Oswald Trio |
| ISBN: |
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9786313019892 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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04047179298322 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDHJNR045 |
| Cat.#: |
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HJR 045 |
| Genre: |
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Electronica/Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Calling this music "jazz" is fudging the matter quite a bit, but I'm going to stand by it. The group's music may sound more like straight-up techno at first, but listen harder: drummer Vladislav Delay is listening and responding to the other two; Max Loderbauer and leader Moritz Von Oswald both sound like they're essentially improvising underneath those chilly electro grooves. I say this has just as much right to be called jazz as Bitches Brew does. And call it what you will, it's pretty great. (RA) |
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| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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The Search Within |
| Label: |
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Mack Avenue (dist. Ryko)
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Artist:
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Sean Jones |
| ISBN: |
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9786312822509 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00673203104426 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECD7320M31044 |
| Cat.#: |
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MAC 1044 |
| Genre: |
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Jazz |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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On his latest, the post-bop trumpeter shows his versatility as never before, and makes a strong statement about being in the big leagues. The title track is found in three interspersed segments separated by several longer pieces that reflect Jones’ current state of mind as an up-and-comer turning 30. He plays with and mixes time signatures, moods, styles, and instrumentation, but seldom is the trumpet (or flugelhorn) not front and center, even with four to seven other musicians per track. This one is definitely worth checking out. (JW) |
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| ROCK/POP |
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| $12.98 |
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| Title: |
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Jigsaw |
| Label: |
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Midget/EMI
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Artist:
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Lady Sovereign |
| ISBN: |
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9786312835639 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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05060172000562 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDWDSF20005 |
| Cat.#: |
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MID02CD |
| Genre: |
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Grime/Hip Hop |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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After a bit of a hiatus and a few minor meltdowns and controversies, the Biggest Midget in the Game is back with her full-length follow-up to Public Warning, which was itself a (somewhat inferior) follow-up to the brilliant Vertically Challenged EP. Jigsaw falls somewhere between the two releases, which is a step in the right direction: the sound is still a bit clean and sometimes slick (and the program leads off with the unpromisingly house-inflected "Let's Be Mates"), but overall her snarky rhymes are back to their old sharpness and Medasyn's beats have regained some of the gritty intelligence they had back when Sov was still mainly in the singles game. Expect demand from established fans. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Hush |
| Label: |
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Polyvinyl (dist. ADA)
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Artist:
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Asobi Seksu |
| ISBN: |
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9786312737643 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00644110017024 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDPOLV00170 |
| Cat.#: |
|
170 |
| Genre: |
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Pop/Rock Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
If their previous album, Citrus (a gem, by the way), was more like Moose and Loveless-era My Bloody Valentine, Hush is more akin to the atmospherics of Slowdive and Cocteau Twins. Here James Hanna has stripped away the walls of chaotic guitars, revealing well-crafted songs and much more of singer Yuki Chikudate’s lovely and agile voice. Singing in English and Japanese, she can sound girlish or soulful, wispy and ethereal or intense and dramatic. This record has a sophisticated and deceptive simplicity, filled with understated ranges of color and texture and lush, gorgeous, ambient pop. (TWB) |
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| $15.99 |
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| Title: |
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Untitled #23 |
| Label: |
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Second Motion (dist. Redeye)
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Artist:
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The Church |
| ISBN: |
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9786312899761 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00634457512726 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDSCMN012 |
| Cat.#: |
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SMR-012 |
| Genre: |
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Pop/Rock Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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If you liked them then, you'll still like them now: the latest release from the Church gives you more of the same. Texture, mood and ambience are still more important than melody, but if you want hooks you can always turn to Marty Willson-Piper's solo stuff. The full-band albums are all about the feel, and the feel is just as spacey and lovely as it always was. Steve Kilbey can still sing, too. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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Dark Days/Light Years |
| Label: |
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Indies Asia/Zoom
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Artist:
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Super Furry Animals |
| ISBN: |
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9786313068005 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00883870054621 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDIASARTRADCD546 |
| Cat.#: |
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rtradcd546 |
| Genre: |
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Pop/Rock Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
The inventive, audacious, irreverent SFA are back with another pop gem full of groove, hilarity and joy. Since their debut full-length on Alan McGee’s Creation Records in 1996, they haven’t failed to impress critics and their wildly devoted fan-base with their psychedelic-pop-soul experiments in both English and their trademark Welsh (and even German on this one). Audible influences include everything from The Beach Boys and Scott Walker to techno and layers of sampling. The Super Furry Animals are in their prime here and if you dig this, and you will, you must explore their entire catalog. Not as song-oriented as their last one, yet more varied and just as infectious. “Under the radar gem” describes this record and band. (TWB) |
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| $11.98 |
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| Title: |
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It's Frightening |
| Label: |
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TBD Records (dist. Red)
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Artist:
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White Rabbits |
| ISBN: |
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9786312926092 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00880882166120 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDTBDR88088216612 |
| Cat.#: |
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N/A |
| Genre: |
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Pop/Rock Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
Comparisons to The Strokes and Spoon abound, but are shallow. This Columbia, Missouri (now Brooklyn) sextet is built on two drummer/percussionists and piano, with sophisticated pop melodies and harmonies infusing both vocals and guitars. The ten tracks here go by quickly and are packed with catchy and stimulating rhythmic and harmonic pop devices. With influences ranging from Calypso and reggae to ska and the “crazy rhythms” that one might associate with The Feelies, this is a band well on its way to finding a unique and rewarding sound. (TWB) |
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| $15.98 |
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| Title: |
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Far |
| Label: |
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Sire
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Artist:
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Regina Spektor |
| ISBN: |
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9786312977773 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00093624976455 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDSIRE519396 |
| Cat.#: |
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519396-2 |
| Genre: |
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Pop/Rock Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
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Spektor is a folky singer-songwriter whose piano arrangements draw on classical music. Her lyrics easily swing between detailed domesticity and metaphor. Her vocal delivery is quirky and unforced whether she is lighthearted or somber. “Genius Next Door” exemplifies all her disparate qualities while “Laughing With” uses them to riff on the adage about there being no atheists in a foxhole. Production by a variety of veterans on her latest release succeeds by highlighting, not overshadowing, her unique talents. (MC) |
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 |
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| $13.98 |
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| Title: |
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Bitte Orca |
| Label: |
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Domino (dist. ADA)
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Artist:
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Dirty Projectors |
| ISBN: |
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9786312970606 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00801390021725 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDDOMN00217 |
| Cat.#: |
|
DNO217 |
| Genre: |
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Pop/Rock Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
Dirty Projectors’ fourth album thrives on contrasts. Acoustic guitars and a string section trade off with synthesizers. Drums crash then fall nearly silent. “Useful Chamber” recontexualizes Led Zeppelin-esqe guitar riffs by stripping them of extraneous bluster then adding back the guitar sounds of African pop. While the indie aesthetic deemphasizes technical competence, the album is still marred by a distracting prevelance of wobbly notes such as backing vocals that don’t quite harmonize or a lead like Aaron Neville’s warble but with less precision. (MC) |
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| Title: |
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Check Your Head |
| Label: |
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Capitol
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Artist:
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Beastie Boys |
| ISBN: |
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9786312785439 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
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05099969422522 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDCAP 94225 |
| Cat.#: |
|
94225 22 |
| Genre: |
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Rap, Hip-Hop |
| Release type: |
|
Reissue (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
The Beastie Boys' deluxe-reissue series continues with this baffling but rewarding set, which pairs one of the trio's more perplexing releases with an equally crazy set of B-sides and remixes. Check Your Head found the group looking back at its punk days while simultaneously continuing to expand its vision of white hip hop; the result includes moments of brilliance like "So What'cha Want?" and "Jimmy James," as well as moments of filler, brief reflections on Buddhist faith, and instrumentals. This reissue set includes some excellent remixes and B-sides (as well as some irrelevant goofiness), and should be considered an essential purchase wherever Beastie Boys releases are collected. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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The Woodstock Experience |
| Label: |
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RCA
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Artist:
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Jefferson Airplane |
| ISBN: |
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9786313009572 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00886974824022 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDRCA 48240 |
| Cat.#: |
|
88697-48240-2 |
| Genre: |
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Pop/Rock Music |
| Release type: |
|
Boxed Set (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
The new Woodstock Experience series of double CDs pairs a band’s live set at Woodstock with a studio album from roughly the same era. With Jefferson Airplane you get the entire Volunteers album, plus their 13-song concert set at Woodstock, much of it previously unreleased. The Woodstock set includes plenty of songs from the Volunteers album plus several extended jams of Hot Tuna material and their big hits “White Rabbit” and “Somebody to Love,” all highlighted by remarkable performances from guitarist Jorma Kaukonen. Also recommended in this series is the Janis Joplin Woodstock Experience, which includes her first studio album, I Got Them Ol’ Kozmic Blues Again Mama! as well as her blistering, Stax/Volt influenced set at Woodstock. Also check out the Sly and the Family Stone Woodstock Experience, which pairs his legendary live set at Woodstock with the studio LP Stand. Each is recommended. (GH) |
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| Title: |
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The Woodstock Experience |
| Label: |
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Columbia/Legacy
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Artist:
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Johnny Winter |
| ISBN: |
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9786313009558 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00886974824428 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDCOLM48244 |
| Cat.#: |
|
88697-48244-2 |
| Genre: |
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Pop/Rock Music |
| Release type: |
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Boxed Set (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
Johnny Winter and Santana were both unknown on the national music scene when they took the stage at Woodstock in August 1969. Blues/rock guitarist Winter played a masterful set that proved he had the same prowess as Clapton and other fretboard luminaries of the era. Santana’s Latin-tinged rock set at Woodstock gave the world the first glimpse of what would become one of the hottest rock bands of the era. Legacy’s Woodstock Experience series documents both Winter and Santana with two-CD packages, the Winter album including his Woodstock set and his eponymous first LP, while the Santana release includes their landmark Woodstock set plus their first studio LP. Both capture talented artists on the brink of stardom, knocking out the crowd at the most influential rock festival of all time. Both are highly recommended. (GH) |
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| $16.98 |
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| Title: |
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Living in The Light |
| Label: |
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Stony Plain
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Artist:
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Ronnie Earl and The Broadcasters |
| ISBN: |
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9786312969525 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00772532134026 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDSTON321340 |
| Cat.#: |
|
SPCD1340 |
| Genre: |
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Blues |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Award-winning blues guitarist Ronnie Earl returns with a new disc influenced by Delta and Chicago blues. Fueling Earl’s musical passion is a new-found sobriety and spirituality implied in the album's title, and that manifests itself in a cover of Dylan’s “What Can I Do For You” and his original “Recovery Blues.” Backed by a powerhouse band anchored by Dave Limina’s Hammond B3 organ and piano, this is great stuff from one of the finest blues guitarists around. (GH) |
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| $14.98 |
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| |
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| Title: |
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Spiral Insana |
| Label: |
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United Jnana (dist. Revolver)
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Artist:
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Nurse With Wound |
| ISBN: |
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9786313025077 |
| ISBN-10: |
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|
| UPC: |
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00061297143542 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDUTJN2004 |
| Cat.#: |
|
2004 |
| Genre: |
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Avant-garde |
| Release type: |
|
Reissue |
| Comments: |
|
Originally issued in 1986, Spiral Insana finds Steven Stapleton (the only remaining member of what had briefly been a band) experimenting with a less abrasive and more variegated sound. Nothing on this disc is especially difficult, but all of it is strange and there are occasionally startling elements, such as sudden bursts of organ, unnerving radio samples, and even the occasional banjo (yikes!). Expect something between ambient electronica and musique concrete, and you won't be either shocked or disappointed. It's actually quite enjoyable -- expect demand from fans of 1980s downtown experimentation. (RA) |
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| WORLD/ETHNIC |
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| |
| $14.98 |
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| Title: |
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Inspiration Information 3 |
| Label: |
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Strut (dist. Red)
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Artist:
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Mulatu Astatke |
| ISBN: |
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9786312867210 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00730003304026 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDSEDS040 |
| Cat.#: |
|
STRUT040CD |
| Genre: |
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World Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
Fans of the Ethiopiques series might remember Mulatu Astatke, because he was the star of volume 4. His music was also featured in the Jim Jarmusch/Bill Murray film Broken Flowers -- though this album will make everyone forget those associations. Astatke teams up here with the London-based jazz-funk collective The Heliocentrics for an astonishing record of deep grooves that refers back to classic Ethiojazz while still being totally contemporary. The collaboration delivers an absolute triumph of a record that I predict will be on many top ten lists at the end of the year. (SA) |
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| $14.99 |
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| Title: |
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Says Don Day Don Dree Don Don |
| Label: |
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Luaka Bop (dist. Redeye)
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Artist:
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Marcio Local |
| ISBN: |
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9786312899754 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00680899007122 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDLKBP0071 |
| Cat.#: |
|
CDLBOP0071 |
| Genre: |
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Latin |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
Luaka Bop’s latest Brazilian discovery, Marcio Local is the latest exponent of the tradition of mixing traditional samba influences with more modern American stylings, in this case especially soul music. Those familiar with this history will recognize Jorge Ben as a primary influence, but those that don’t will simply hear a self-assured and well-produced example of contemporary pop music with a peculiarly Brazilian twist. (SA) |
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| $17.98 |
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| Title: |
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Eagle |
| Label: |
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Real World
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Artist:
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Mamer |
| ISBN: |
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9786312840480 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00884108016527 |
| Prod.#: |
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BECDRWRC80165 |
| Cat.#: |
|
165 |
| Genre: |
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World Music |
| Release type: |
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New |
| Comments: |
|
The music of Xinjiang folk artist Mamer has attracted the genre designation "Chinagrass," which is an attempt to describe the guitar-and-voice-based sound of his Chinese/Kazakh fusion folk music. It may seem like an awkward construction, but it's as good a descriptor as any I might be able to come up with. Mamer's sound is truly unique, and incorporates elements of American country music, traditional Chinese melodies, throat singing, Kazakh folk songs, and less-identifiable tidbits as well. Very cool. (RA) |
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| Title: |
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African Pearls: Congo 70 Rumba Rock |
| Label: |
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Sterns Music USA
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Artist:
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Various Artists |
| ISBN: |
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9786312675938 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
|
03700426905442 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDSTEN6139342 |
| Cat.#: |
|
6139342 |
| Genre: |
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World Music |
| Release type: |
|
Compilation (2-discs) |
| Comments: |
|
Another great entry in the African Pearls series from Sterns/Syllart devoted to 70s Afropop, this one focusing on the Congo. There seems to be an inexhaustible supply of great rumba, because this compilation of tracks by big names and more obscure artists never fails to delight. Unconditionally guaranteed. (SA) |
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| $15.98 |
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| Title: |
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Masters of Chicha Vol 1 |
| Label: |
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Barbes
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Artist:
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Juaneco Y Su Combo |
| ISBN: |
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9786312452539 |
| ISBN-10: |
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| UPC: |
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00881626915523 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDBRBR269155 |
| Cat.#: |
|
BR 0020 |
| Genre: |
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Latin |
| Release type: |
|
Reissue |
| Comments: |
|
Chicha is a fascinating hybrid of musical styles from Peru and elsewhere. It combines elements of cumbia, Brazilian carimbo rhythms, surf guitar, and garage rock organ, to create a unique blend of folk and popular music that is great fun and highly danceable. Juaneco y Su Combo, from Amazonian Peru, got their start in the early 1970s and in modified form continue today. This release pulls together their first album with some later material. This is a great place to hear the permutations of pop in other parts of the world. (JW) |
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| Title: |
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Faith |
| Label: |
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Canyon
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Artist:
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Kevin Yazzie |
| ISBN: |
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9786312411024 |
| ISBN-10: |
|
|
| UPC: |
|
00729337644427 |
| Prod.#: |
|
BECDCNRS376444 |
| Cat.#: |
|
CR-6444 |
| Genre: |
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World Music |
| Release type: |
|
New |
| Comments: |
|
Yazzie’s first solo release (he’s worked in a duo previously) is a very fine one. Harmonized peyote songs have become an increasingly popular style of music in the Native American Church, and are intended for healing, introspection, and spiritual uplift. Structured into groups of four songs, the lead singer is accompanied on most verses by additional singers, and a relatively constant water drum. The effect is mesmerizing and dream-like, and the harmonies provide a sweetness that is hard to resist. Yazzie’s compositions are sung mostly in Diné (Navajo), with a few in Cree. An excellent addition to Native American collections. (JW) |
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© CD HotList 2004 |
