2 comments about Joy to the World!.

1. Steve Green has a glorious voice, a full liquid sound that has a huge range and power of operatic proportions, but is equally effective when he is singing softly, which is how he interprets many of of the lovely songs on this CD, which span the centuries from Handel and Beethoven to "Jesus is Born" which was co-written by Steve.
   He sings in a straightforward style, and with the melody, instead of against it, which has become so popular in modern times, with singers sometimes thinking that exaggerated "frills and meandering" make a song "their own"; Steve instead relies on his vocal technique, and the rare gift of true artistry.

   Highlights for me are the exquisitely tender "Silent Night", and no Christmas album is complete for me without "O Holy Night", which is here presented in a medley with "The Birthday of a King"; other good medleys are the excerpts from Handel's "Messiah", and the final combination of "O Come, O Come Emmanuel"/"Thou Didst Leave Thy Throne".
   My absolute favorite is "Adorar al Niño", sung in flawless Spanish (with one verse in English) and with a marvelous Mexican-style arrangement; it's an infectious tune, and the performance by all, including Jon Goin and Mark Casstevens on guitars, is exceptional.

   Whether singing in the richness of his full voice, or in subdued velvety textured tones, Steve is a joy to listen to, and this 1987 CD, released in the fourth year of his long recording career, is tasteful and inspiring; a perfect addition to any Christmas music collection, it is one that becomes increasingly appealing with each hearing. The sound is very good and total time 33'38.




2. Wow!! I adore this CD. I love music that is both traditional and yet a little different, and Steve can do both so extremely well. The best track on the CD is "Adorar al Niño," which combines a wonderful Latino beat with the traditional Christmas story. This song was so impressive, I wrote to CD recording company & was able to obtain a copy of the the sheet music to use in our contemporary praise band at church. This song really gets people's attention, let me tell ya!! It's just fabulous. AND it's a Christmas eve tradition in our church, 2 years in a row, to use this album on Christmas Eve as pre-service music until our band is ready to go. The very first track, Joy to the World, is done in such an outstanding, majestic, upbeat manner, it captures the joy of the season. The next few tracks are awesome as well, with everyone's favorite "Silent Night" as the 4th track, which is performed traditionally with excellence. You have to wait until track 9 to hear "Adorar al Niño," but you'll be very pleased with all the music in-between. Awesome. Thank you, Steve! And God Bless You!!

5 comments about A Christmas Album.

1. In October of 1967, in the same month & year of releasing her ninth album SIMPLY STREISAND, Barbra Streisand released her tenth album as well. This tenth album turned out to be a Holiday album entitled, A CHRISTMAS ALBUM. I have thoroughly enjoyed this album and you will too when I give the tracklisting, with my explanations.
   
   JINGLE BELLS?
   This is not the traditional song, but Barbra's own little version, which is very comical, but enjoyable. A very fun-filled Holiday song.
   
   HAVE YOURSELF A MERRY LITTLE CHRISTMAS
   One of my Holiday favorites.
   
   THE CHRISTMAS SONG (CHESTNUTS ROASTING ON AN OPEN FIRE)
   Another one of the Holiday greats.
   
   WHITE CHRISTMAS
   Great Holiday cheer in this one.
   
   MY FAVORITE THINGS
   Great.
   
   THE BEST GIFT
   Great.
   
   SLEEP IN HEAVENLY PEACE (SILENT NIGHT)
   "Silent Night" is my all-time favorite Holiday song and Barbra sings it beautifully here.
   
   GOUNOD'S AVE MARIA
   Great.
   
   O LITTLE TOWN OF BETHLEHEM
   Great.
   
   I WONDER AS I WANDER
   Great.
   
   THE LORD'S PRAYER
   This is actually a prayer which is to be said as follows: "Our Father, Who art in Heaven, hallowed be Thy name, Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on Earth as it is in Heaven. Give us this day, our daily bread and forgive us our traspass' as we forgive those who traspass against us and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil".
   
   A CHRISTMAS ALBUM is a very enjoyable album that I really enjoy every Christmas. This album really puts me into the Holiday spirit. This album is for every fan to enjoy during the Holidays. So, buy A CHRISTMAS album today, before the Holidays arrive.



2. This is a GREAT Christmas album. Barbra was in superb voice, although, she recorded it over a weekend break while filming FUNNY GIRL and the story has always been that she had a cold and didn't feel like she should record...but she did because the time was all booked, the musicians were all rehearsed and it was ready, get set, go.
   
   The result is a lovely, burnished quality to her voice that only adds to the whole charm here.
   
   It's better than her later holiday album for the same reasons that most of her earlier work is better than contemporary things like THE MOVIE ALBUM. Her arrangements back then were more thrilling and her voice was simply a younger, more vibrant instrument. She's still a great singer...but she's past the days (and rightfully so) where she could send chills up your spine and hit one out of the ballpark each time.
   
   But, she did just that in 1967 and thankfully, we have the recordings to prove it!



3. My parents had this tape & I got to hear it every year growing up. It is high on the kitcsh factor, and her Jingle Bells is so craptastic to be enjoyable in a campy B movie kinda way.



4. It is said that Babs recorded this record while having a cold simply because it was due, they couldn't wait any longer, well let me tell you it was a heaven sent cold if you will because that is exactly what she sounds like just like an angel I have every single cd available from Babs and like many people I like her younger voice better but for whatever the reason cold or not never before neither after did she ever sounded so beautiful as she does in this cd. HER ABSOLUTE BEST !!!!



5. There is no more self-obsessed and ear-piercing "Christmas" recording out there. Ms. Streisand is in full howl mode on almost every track, singing about a holiday that she obviously does not observe, but whose profitability she appreciates. Unless you happen to be a Streisand fan, avoid this overproduced monstrosity at all costs.

5 comments about Christmas With the New Christy Minstrels: Complete.

1. This CD arrived in perfect condition in less than a week. This is the first time I ordered anything from Amazon and I am very pleased with the price, quality, and service.



2. When I was a young married mother, I owned the album of Merry Christmas by New Christie Minstrels. Every year my husband and I played it all through the holiday season for both our daughters. My 36 year old daughter told me last year that she had found it in cd on Amazon and asked for it as a gift. I bought two, one for her and one for me. We now play it for my 5 year old grandson. The music evokes memories of a kinder, gentler time and youth. It contains some of the merriest Christmas tunes I've heard. The music spells Christmas to me and to my grown daughters.



3. These are the songs I listened to when I was a little kid. It's so much fun to hear them again. The sound quality is surprisingly good.



4. Christy Minstrel's were a sixties band. This Christmas collection I grew up listening every year. It brings me great memories of Christmas' past. For someone hearing it for the first time will bring you such joy for the season, it really is up-beat and very well done! It is a must. If you like their style check out their non-seasonal music as well.



5. The music on this CD is a family tradition at Christmas. It is unique and most enjoyable for all ages.

2 comments about Christmas Album: Original Masters.

1. The business folks at DG must have a soft spot for Christmas music, probably leftover goodwill from growing up with caroling in the snow. Certainly the German language nations seem to have excelled in producing a wealth of Christmas tunes, jingles, chorales, hymns, and rounds. This compliation is a two CD set of very good to great singers and performers who are quite to the manor born, or maybe I should say manger.
   The easy way to decide if two hours of German Xmas gemutlichkeit is for you is simply to listen to the enormous selections on Amazon's sound sampler.



2. This set is a truly amazing find! Vintage 1950's and 1960's German performances of Christmas and traditional holiday music. This contains an awesome range of artists, from Maria Stader, Fritz Wunderlich and Herman Prey, Gundula Janowitz, Irmgard Seefried, to Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau, with music ranging from excerpts from Handel's Messiah to traditional christmas carols. Instrumental and choral performances balance out the collection. Documentation is well-written, and the sound is excellent high-fidelity mono and stereo. Very recommendable!

1 comments about Shout Praises: Kids Christmas.

1. I Love This CD So Much And For Those People Who Dosent Know Jesus Will Love This CD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

5 comments about Christmas Collection.

1. Excellent, as have her other songs and soundtracks been.



2. I am not very fond of Christmas albums, so I bought Olivia's with some hesitation. I don't regret having done it one bit. I have never heard ONJ sound better in her life. Her voice improves as years go by. Not only it keeps that ethereal quality which has made her so remarkably unique, it has now a strength, a solidity it didn't have before. Her previous incursion with an orchestra - the "Warm and tender" album- showed how well she could sound, but the Christmas Collection is way superior. The music arrangements are just fantastic and she blends just perfectly with the music without losing her presence and personal signature. "Ave Maria" is definitely the jewel of the crown. Instead of going for high notes, she explores deeper tones, giving her rendition an earthy, warm feeling. Interpreting a classical piece is a far cry from what she had done before, but she knows what her possibilities are and she exploits them to the maximum without any pretentiousness. She has made a well balanced album in which all songs fit together. A beautiful album that has dignity and avoids the very common mistake of making of Christmas music something commercial or corny.



3. The Amazon reviewer labels this a 'patchwork-quilt' album, sourcing from various places Christmas tunes Olivia has graced with her vocals over the years. One is almost inclined to say that's too kind, it's as lazy as anything, with this record containing the grand total of 0 new songs. That said, Olivia is on the tailend of her career and hasn't had a big hit in about fifteen years - it should come as a blessing to have these sorts of releases at all.

   Festival Records have done a bit of an injustice with the cover art, using a picture which was already three years old when this album came out. The music contained within however has a few standouts, namely the 1996 pop ballad 'Christmas Never Felt Like This' (quite a treat!) and an uptempo pop reworking of 'The First Noel'. Likewise, the songs lifted from Kenny Loggins' TV special 'December' (namely 'Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow!', 'Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas' and 'White Christmas') are prime examples of why those American-ised carols make us feel so good - they're just SO darn loveable!!

   Like a lot of Olivia's recent work, there's a 'hit and miss' element here. Her cover of 'Ave Maria' was ill-advised and Olivia struggles a little with 'O Holy Night'. For the most part this CD is enjoyable, and one can't blame Olivia entirely as the majority of Christmas releases are the same no matter who releases them. At least Olivia does offer up one tune of her own and a fantastic reworking of 'The First Noel' into the mix. 'The Christmas Collection' is uninspired to say the least, but it serves its function. And at any rate, I'd much rather spent my Christmas with Olivia than the likes of Charlotte Church...




4. though i've been a ONJ fan since she made it in the USA in the early 70's i have to be truthful that this cd is a huge disappointment. it seems to be a collection of her various guest appearances in other artists albums and even the delivery of the songs were not that impressive. honestly i was not moved despite the well chosen holiday songs. there just was no spark and i disliked all those duets w/ various artists.
   wasn't what i expected for her first xmas cd after her long career. i really thought they were all recorded specially for her album and not a collection of her guest appearances.
   a big big disappointment from a ONJ fan.



5. Unfortunately this and the re-package 20th Century Masters are both out of print. Olivia at the time of this release never recorded a complete Christmas album and as the reviews state, it's a patchwork collection comprised of her appearances on television and outside studio work, the bulk from a Hallmark collection. The previously unreleased "The First Noel" has a cold feel to it, the instrumental backing is keyboard with a pop tempo and Olivia's voice simply overdubbed. For me the standout track is "Ave Maria" with the London Symphony providing the lush strings and Olivia's fragile lead supported but not overwhelmed by full choir backing. Had an entire album been recorded with this same quality Olivia would have had a resurgence in her career and this album would have remained in print.

4 comments about Mad About Mad About.

1. This compilation of the Mad About series is a good representation of all the fine music compiled for the series. Many of the tracks selected for this "Best of Mad About" set are the more well-known ones -- tunes you'll recognize but never knew who wrote them. I recommend it for anyone who likes to listen to classical music but has a short attention span! The varied mix of styles will keep you entertained. Plus, it will give the new listener many paths to pursue in developing an interest in the classics.



2. Well I'm not sure who's responsible for the CD cover art, but once you get past that, the music included on this CD is a wonderful intro to opera and classical music in general, and a wonderful reward to those who are already aficionados (hope I speeled tht write). All kidding aside, you're getting about two hours of highlights from great masters and great performers. Put this on the player and relish the sound and the glory. Relax and enjoy!! I'd have given this 5 stars, but oh my, that "mad" cover art! Sorry...just not my cup of tea. Nor coffee. But ah, the music....



3. I played some selections from this CD at a meeting of some music fans. They were amazed at the quality of the selections. Classical music can be intimidating, but it can be a lot of fun, too.



4. This compilation of the "Greatest Hits" of Classical music is useful for those who could use a "classical music for dummies" tool. It contains a wealth of some of the most oft heard and well-respected selections. And for those who arrive unaware of who composed the masterpieces, it is an education in itself. I hope to use this CD to inspire music appreciation in the classroom, especially for those who have been or are being deprived of these musical genius composers which are often overshadowed by the fast-food mentality of this generation's psuedo music.

2 comments about Great Choruses From Messiah.

1. This excerpt disc comes from Shaw's mid-Sixties Messiash, one of the first (along with Mackerras on EMI and Colin Davis on Philips) to offer the small-scale chorus and orchestra that have now become standard. There's only a primitive attempt to osund 'authentic,' but that hardly matters in the choruses.
   
   What does matter is Shaw's superb selection of professional New York singers. Making up the Robert Shaw Chorale for more than twenty years, they remain the gold standard for choral singing on records. The unity and balance to be heard here are miraculous, and even though Shaw wasn't the greatest Baroque conductor, this aspect of his Messiah is glorious. Too bad that RCA doesn't get some of the edge off the recorded sound.



2. Awesome!!!! I love the Messiah and these people sing it fast!

5 comments about December.

1. "At no other time of the year is there a wider array of emotions than the month of December. As I considered material and arrangements for this recording I wanted to assure myself that in each instance the songs reach out to the joys and reflections of the season. I wish you all the best in all your Decembers." ~ Chris Botti ~
   
   December. We're on the last month of the year. It's the time of the year again when people tend to become busier than ever. Time flies so quickly. Where did January thru November go? But anyway, December is truly without a doubt my favorite month of the year. To me, it brings so many cherished, fond and warm family memories to have and to hold year after year.
   
   It was such a pleasure to be with my friends at Chris Botti's live concert last night at the Wilshire Theatre with his special guests. It was a terrific and enjoyable concert. A dream concert! To any fan, the ultimate and best thing is watching him perform live and see and hear before your very own eyes and ears how exquisitely he played his favorite instrument and interpreted some of the hauntingly beautiful classics of all-time.
   
   This outstanding CD is one of my absolute favorite Christmas CDs from my collection. You'll enjoy listening to thirteen Christmas classics of all-time with arrangements by the artist himself and Billy Childs. You'll be delighted with the fabulous, breathtaking and sublime interpretations of "The Christmas Song," "O Little Town of Bethlemen," "Silent Night," "I'll Be Home For Christmas" and "Hark The Herald Angels Sing," a twosome with Hector Pereira on guitar (wow, trumpet and guitar - what a perfect combination!). And of course my very favorite from this collection of wonderful Christmas carols, "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas" showcasing Mr. Botti's smooth and mellow vocals.
   
   "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas"
   ~ Words and Music by Hugh Martin & Ralph Blane ~
   
   Have yourself a merry little Christmas
   Let your heart be light
   From now on our troubles will be out of sight
   Have yourself a merry little Christmas
   Make the Yuletide gay
   From now on our troubles will be miles away
   
   Here we are as in olden days
   Happy golden days of yore
   Faithful friends who are dear to us
   Gather near to us once more
   Thru the years we all will be together
   If the fates allow
   Hang a shining star upon the highest bow
   And have yourself a merry little Christmas now.
   
   May this Christmas Season bring more joy, peace and blessings to one and all. Have the happiest Holidays ever!



2. December is...the beginning of a beautiful season and a time to reflect on all the things that are good about life. It's also a CD composed of thirteen songs of the season performed by Chris Botti, one of the preeminent trumpeters in contemporary jazz today. Whether you have a collection of Christmas music or none, this CD is not to be missed.
   
   December is...a time when snow can and does fall in places where it's cold enough for it to actually land on the ground and accumulate so as to be fun and a hazard at the same time. And...it's not just music for fans of Chris Botti; rather it's a CD that anyone can put in the player and relax to as you listen and absorb familiar tunes such as Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let it Snow. Even if you live in the tropics and never see snow, you can close your eyes and picture Chris's brilliant tone ascending to the heavens and coaxing down the flakes. Let It Snow is a beautiful arrangement for a classic jazz quintet with Billy Childs on piano, CJ Vanston on synthesizer, David Carpenter on bass while Peter Erskine applies the brushes to snare drum and cymbals. The Little Drummer Boy is a playful rendering featuring Brandon Fields on tenor sax joining Chris with Vinnie Colaiuta taking over on drums; this is a great tune to light your fire on a cold night.
   
   December...contains a hypnotic chill out song that's oh so mellow called Hallelujah, the fourth tune on the CD. It's performed by a trio of Botti on muted trumpet accompanied by Shane Fontayne on guitars and on bass is Jon Ossman of Chris's band; this song has the power to move you.
   
   There is so much to like about this collection. I'll Be Home For Christmas is just the sort of arrangement that will remove the stress of too much hustle and bustle and replace it with joy; put this song on repeat and let Chris's muted trumpet evoke in you an emotion that'll get you going for the rest of the year.
   
   Have fun, enjoy life and December.



3. This is such a beautiful compilation of Christmas classics that is sure to become a favorite in anyone's collection. I love this album for slowing down and remembering the magic of the holiday season, for background music during our holiday feast or a cocktail party with friends and for cuddling up with my honey for the evening. The music is soulful, moving, even sultry. I was especially enjoyed Botti's rendition of Hallelujah. Relax and enjoy "December."



4. This album is a wonderful Christmas album. His trumpet is so mellow it makes you swoon. If you love this album you'll love all his others.



5. If you appreciate Chris Botti, you'll love listening to him playing Christmas music.
   
   This album in particular is not my favorite of his. The beginning tracks I think are the highlights of the album. Nice to hear him playing some more upbeat jazz on this one. This should put some of his nay sayers to rest about him being overrated.
   
   Just close your eyes and appreciate the smooth sounds of Mr. Botti.

2 comments about Prokofiev: Romeo and Juliet (Complete Suites from the Ballet).

1. I have a number of other versions of Romeo and Juliet and bought this one for the novelty of the DSD direct recording. I wish I hadn't. The problem isn't with the new format, but more fundamentally with the mix. The mid-range is muffled, when one can hear it at all. This lamentable defect is all the more striking by the clarity of the percussion and violins. Those wishing a good SACD/DVD audio recording are advised to pass; there are too many great straight CD recordings already available to waste your money on this.



2. I couldn't disagree more with another reviewer who must have had cotton-wool in his ears. The sound engineering of this exquisite performance is superb, but for one point. I was struck by the excellent clarity and superb balance between solo instruments and between the instrumental sections. The clarity of sound is up with the best Telarc has given. But there is one flaw. I don't know whether the balance engineer went to sleep for the first few tracks, but the entire string section is huddled over to the left. Things improve later, matching in well with the remainder of the orchestra which is (positionally) well balanced. Balance in the sense of relative volume of the instruments is good throughout. And as for the actual performance, I think it is one of the best I have heard, and I have decided to put up with the mis-placed strings in the early tracks and buy the release: you don't get such a combination of quality in both music and sound (with the one caveat) often enough.