The Trial & The Death of Socrates

Track Listings
Disc: 1

1. Apology: Introduction

2. Apology: I Don't Know What Effect...

3. Apology: No, There's No Truth...

4. Apology: Finally I Went to the Craftsmen...

5. Apology: Answer Me This, Though...

See all 8 tracks on this disc
Disc: 2

1. Apology: The Jury Finds Socrates Guilty by a Margin of 280 Votes to 220

2. Apology: If I Am Not Upset, Athenians...

3. Apology: The Majority Verdict Is for the Death Penalty

4. Apology: For Just a Small Gain in Time, Athenians

5. Apology: And There's Another Reason for Being Confident

See all 13 tracks on this disc
Disc: 3

1. Phaedo: At This Point Simmias Intervened...

2. Phaedo: So Are Things Like That Some Kind of Recollection?

3. Phaedo: The Other Possibility, I Imagine...

4. Phaedo: Cebes Laughed. Take It We Are Afraid, Socrates...

5. Phaedo: And Here's Another Way of Looking at It...

See all 11 tracks on this disc
Disc: 4

1. Phaedo: Socrates Paused for a Considerable Time...

2. Phaedo: And Now? Cebes Asked. How Do You Feel...

3. Phaedo: My Next Decision, After I'd Abandoned...

4. Phaedo: Heavens, Yes, Pahedo, I Should Think So Too...

5. Phaedo: And of the Things That Are, Is It the Only One

See all 10 tracks on this disc

Tracks:

Message Of Love
One More
When You Love A Woman
If He Should Break Your Heart
Forever In Blue
Castles Burning
Don't Be Down On Me Baby
Still She Cries
Colors Of The Spirit
When I Think Of You
Easy To Fall
Can't Tame The Lion
It's Just The Rain
Trial By Fire
Baby I'm A Leavin' You
I Can See It In Your Eyes

Customer Reviews:

Uneven and Inconsistent.......2007-06-12

Depending on your perspective, Journey's 1996 album Trial by Fire is either a triumphant swan song for the Steve Perry era of Journey, or a lackluster album from a band capable of so much better. I always counted myself among the latter group, but when I ran across the reissued version of Trial by Fire I decided to give it another shot.

The album certainly starts strongly enough, with the rocking Message of Love and the dramatic One More, but then comes the single When You Love a Woman, a saccharine sweet ballad Michael Bolton might have thought twice before recording. I know it was a fairly big hit for the band, but I have no idea why. Next is If He Should Break Your Heart. It's another ballad, but a very strong one. The rest of the album continues down the same path. There are songs like Can't Tame the Lion and the title track that can only be described as vintage Journey, but they are mixed with mediocre rockers like Castles Burning and ballads like Colors of the Spirit that sound like Disney soundtrack rejects. Top it off with what is the band's worst album cover artwork since Next, and you're left with an album that is inconsistent at best, and hardly worth the 10-year wait.

All of this leaves the impression that Trial by Fire is a very uneven album. When it's good, it's really good. But when it's bad, well you get the idea. Had they trimmed trimmed this thing down to 10-11 songs, it would be a 4-star album. As is though, 3 stars is the best I can give it. Their follow-up album (2001's Arrival) had the same problem, though it was a much stronger album overall.

The 2006 reissue of Trial by Fire features digitally remastered sound, a bonus track, and digipack packaging with expanded liner notes. I'm not entirely convinced that such a recent album needed remastering in the first place, but the sound quality of this reissue is quite good. The bonus track - I Can See It in Your Eyes - was previously available only on the expensive Japanese import version of Trial by Fire. It's a very upbeat number that helps erase the taste of Baby I'm a Leavin' You, so it's nice to see it added here.

Journey Grows Up............2007-06-03

"Trial by Fire" provides an eclectic collection of songs from the arena rockers based in San Francisco. While the ballad "When You Love a Woman" is a radio staple, there are alot of good songs to choose from. Some of my favorites are: "Easy to Fall"; "Still She Cries"; and the title track. Whether it was the time apart or changing musical tastes, I find this cd a more mature offering from the band. Steve Perry's vocals are still the best in the business, though it appears he has lost some range, and the band is as tight as ever. In fact, I really came to appreciate the drumming of Steve Smith the more I listened. While Steve Smith is more famous for being in Journey, he is a top-notch jazz drummer.

Different.......2007-05-18

At first I really only loved "When You Love a Woman", but then I really listened to the rest of the album, I realized how great the album really was. It is a mature album with so many great songs that have some much meaning attached to each song. You can hear it in Steve Perry's voice. I think this is one of their best albums of all time.

Journey's only studio album of the 90's.......2007-04-13

Originally released in 1996, this is Steve Perry's last album with the group despite a nearly ten year hiatus. The big hit off this album was "When You Love A Woman" which reached the Top Ten in late '96/early '97. The album as a whole breaks no new ground as it is just vintage Journey consisting of ballads and mid-tempo rock tunes. In fact, the only fast tracks here are "Message Of Love", "Can't Tame The Lion" and the bonus track "I Can See It In Your Eyes". Unlike other reissues, there are no tour dates because the tour that was to follow was put off due to an injury Perry suffered shortly after the album's release. Eventually Perry was released from the band. The booklet features photos and credits instead.

It's been ten years since I purchased this title on cassette. Listening to it again on this remastered CD brings back personal memories. Long time fans will enjoy this album. Fans of soft rock or adult contemporary music will enjoy it too.

Great reissue!.......2006-12-19

This reissue's remastering sounds incredible (especially the bass) and it includes the amazing 'Only the Young' style b-side 'I can see it in your eyes.' The CD as a whole avoids the fast song, slow song cycle. I liked Raised on Radio and expected this to be more of the same. But the songs here reach further. Almost as if Journey had written a few of these for a movie soundtrack with the addition of a few strings, some interesting percussion, and songs that include larger themes. Steve Perry's voice is in fine form although it would've been great to have had a few more solos from Neal Schon.

Average customer rating:

Very Under-rated. A splendid album of tunes
Uneven and inconsistent
Their best work.
Bad Mix, Neal "Schines"!!
Worst Journey album of all time.

Trial By Fire
Journey
Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Raised on Radio
For the Love of Strange Medicine
Arrival
Frontiers
Evolution

ASIN: B000002BGM
Release Date: 1996-10-22

Tracks:

Message of Love
One More
When You Love a Woman
If He Should Break Your Heart
Forever in Blue
Castles Burning
Don't Be Down on Me Baby
Still She Cries
Colors of the Spirit
When I Think of You
Easy to Fall
Can't Tame the Lion
It's Just the Rain
Trial by Fire
Baby I'm a Leavin' You [Hidden Track]

Customer Reviews:

Very Under-rated. A splendid album of tunes.......2007-07-01

Very Strong & well thought out music is here. Perry is again in the compositional seat and this can be felt. When he is moved by the music, it is felt to the listener. He has a dramatic way of singing all of these tunes with real conviction.

It makes no sense to downplay this effort because Steve Perry left just before the schedule of a World Tour was to occur. I can only imagine the level of performance he needed to be at to be able to sing these and past Journey tunes every night. Also, from what I gathered, he had a hip issue which needed to be taken care of. The other members were pressuring him to tour before it could be taken care of, then went on without him. Shame.

Uneven and inconsistent.......2007-06-12

Depending on your perspective, Journey's 1996 album Trial by Fire is either a triumphant swan song for the Steve Perry era of Journey, or a lackluster album from a band capable of so much better. I always counted myself among the latter group, but tried to review it objectively here.

The album certainly starts strongly enough, with the rocking Message of Love and the dramatic One More, but then comes the single When You Love a Woman, a saccharine sweet ballad Michael Bolton might have thought twice before recording. I know it was a fairly big hit for the band, but I have no idea why. Next is If He Should Break Your Heart. It's another ballad, but a very strong one. The rest of the album continues down the same path. There are songs like Can't Tame the Lion and the title track that can only be described as vintage Journey, but they are mixed with mediocre rockers like Castles Burning and ballads like Colors of the Spirit that sound like Disney soundtrack rejects. Top it off with what is the band's worst album cover artwork since Next, and you're left with an album that is inconsistent at best, and hardly worth the 10-year wait.

All of this leaves the impression that Trial by Fire is a very uneven album. When it's good, it's really good. But when it's bad, well you get the idea. Had they trimmed trimmed this thing down to 10-11 songs, it would be a 4-star album. As is though, 3 stars is the best I can give it. Their follow-up album (2001's Arrival) had the same problem, though it was a much stronger album overall.

Their best work........2007-06-07

I have to say this Journey work is so good I have bought it four times: one for me and three as presents cause I want them to know which for me is their best work. Caine's Piano is simply amazing, and the same can be said about Schon's guitar; not to mention Mr. Perry's voice, better than ever. It is a flawless album that can be heard once and again and still find something new everytime you listen to it.

Bad Mix, Neal "Schines"!! .......2007-05-07

My biggest gripe with this album is that the vocals are mixed too far in front of the music. It takes away alot of the energy. I agree with alot of previous reviewers that the lyrics get rediculously sappy at times. The one thing that keeps this CD popping back in my car player is the SUPERB guitar work by Neil Schon! I tend to agree with a lot of other online reviewers about many aspects of this CD but I would forgive the lyrics and the mix to listen to Mr. Shon's incredible performance on this CD! On that merit alone I would reccomend it. And crank it!!

Worst Journey album of all time........2007-04-19

This album was one of the worst Journey albums ever. The songs heavily lean towards sappy soft rock with terrible lyrics. I personally loved Open Arms, Faithfully, and most of Journey's Greatest Hits but this album is definitely NOT up to par. Perhaps it has a lot to do with Perry's voice no longer being a smooth golden sounding tenor. Instead it's unbearably raspy and sounds like he's straining for every note. Too bad he didn't classically train his voice to preserve his sound. Or maybe it was the drugs n' alcohol that did him in. Whatever the case, his voice is very rough and unpleasant sounding on this album.

1. Message of Love - nice new-wave instrumental intro but lyrics sucked "I walk alone in the dark without you ... in the shadows of love" Terrible song, the catchy hook was horrid as well - "Baby can you hear my message of love" Could not get into this song at all.

2. One More - there's a trend to the songs on this album, the intros are deceiving, the songs start off with a nice beat but once Perry sings the first few banal lyrics, you're instantly turned off.

3. When You Love a Woman - the only decent sounding song on this album. This Grammy-nominated tune has nice hooks and Perry's raspy voice is somewhat pleasant to listen to. Lyrically, it's nothing special to write home about it other than your cheesy love song.

4. If He Should Break Your Heart - Again a nice soft rock start but then the chorus title is repeated so many times turns it into an unbearably lame tune.

5. Forever in Blue - This song sucked from the beginning intro. As soon as I heard Perry sing "When she walked into the room" I thought oh god, not another lame love song. Recycling their lyric "two hearts" doesn't save this song from the rubbish bin.

6. Castles Burning - Absolutely the worst song on the album. Perry sounding like Tina Turner with a painfully sounding strained voice. This song tries to be a rocker but ends up as pitiful noisy nonsense.

7. Don't Be Down on Me Baby - A failed attempt for a R&B song. Again the lyrics were terrible.

8. Still She Cries - Lovely guitar intro and nice "We were good" chorus. But the rest of lyrics didn't help the song stand out at all.

9. Colors of the Spirit - An unremarkable song that is quickly forgotten.

10. When I Think of You - By the 10th song on the album, I'm feeling like enough of the sappy love songs. Yet again, Journey or maybe Perry himself fails to make a memorable impact. Lukewarm lyrics and vocals.

11. Easy to Fall - Another false start with a bluesy start but the song disintegrates into yet another bland love song.

12. Can't Tame the Lion - Finally, a bit of a beat to wake me up from my coma after suffering through 11 tracks of soft rock. Sadly, the incredibly stupid lyrics - can't tame the lion just ruins whatever momentum the song started.

13. It's Just the Rain - I'm happy by this song, not because it's a wonderful song, but because it's nearing the end album and I no longer have to suffer through it to write this review. This song fails yet again due to horrid lyrics and a nondescript melody.

14. Trial by Fire - For a title song this song is not memorable at all. At this point, I don't feel like I can go on listening to this slow-moving tripe. So many talents in the band were wasted by poor songwriting and not a single hit song.

15. Baby I'm a Leavin' You - Finally, I've reached the end of the album. It's nice to hear Journey try out a reggae beat on their songs but UB40 they definitely are not. Perry's vocals and lyrics somehow destroy whatever pleasant sound this song could have been.

I'm glad I bought this CD cheaply as a used item otherwise I would have been mad if I paid full price for such an atrocious album.

Gilbert & Sullivan - Highlights from The Mikado, The Pirates of Penzance, H.M.S. Pinafore, The Yeomen of the Guard, Trial of Jury

Average customer rating:

The Best Of Gilbert And Sullivan
Pure delight
Delicious G&S samplings abound here.
Fine Intro to G&S

Gilbert & Sullivan - Highlights from The Mikado, The Pirates of Penzance, H.M.S. Pinafore, The Yeomen of the Guard, Trial of Jury
Nicholas Folwell , Arthur Sullivan , Marie McLaughlin , Rebecca Evans , Anthony Rolfe Johnson , John Mark Ainsley , Alwyn Mellor , Anne Howells , Barry Banks , Eric Garrett , Felicity Palmer , Gareth Rhys Davies , Janice Watson , Julie Gossage , Neill Archer , Pamela Helen Stephen , Peter Savidge , Richard Stuart , Richard Suart , Richard Van Allan , Sir Thomas Allen [baritone] , Sir Charles Mackerras , and Welsh National Opera
Manufacturer: Telarc
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

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4-for-3 Classical | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music

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The Ultimate Gilbert & Sullivan Collection
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The Best of Gilbert & Sullivan
The Gilbert and Sullivan Overtures
The Complete Annotated Gilbert & Sullivan

ASIN: B000003D1Y
Release Date: 1996-01-23

Tracks:

A Wandering Minstrel I
Behold The Lord High Executioner!
Three Little Maids From School Are We
Braid The Raven Hair
The Flowers That Bloom In The Spring
On A Tree By A River, A Little Tom-tit Sang, 'Willow, Tit-willow'
For He's Gone And Married Yum-Yum
We Sail The Ocean Blue
I'm Called Little Buttercup
My Gallant Crew
When I Was A Lad
Things Are Seldom What They Seem
Never Mind The Why And Wherefore
Climbing Over Rocky Mountain
Poor Wand'ring One
How Beautifully Blue The Sky
I Am The Very Model Of A Modern Major-General
When The Foeman Bares His Steel
Ah, Leave Me Not To Pine
With Cat-Like Tread
Is Life A Boon?
I Have A Song To Sing, O!
Were I Thy Bride
Oh, A Private Buffoon Is A Light-Hearted Loon
When A Wooer Goes A-Wooing
When I, Good Friends, Was Called To The Bar
A Nice Dilemma We Have Here
Oh, Joy Unbounded

Customer Reviews:

The Best Of Gilbert And Sullivan.......2004-03-15

At the end of the 19th century (1870's, 80's and 90's) the compatible duo of librettist and composer Gilbert and Sullivan popularized the pre-Broadway entertainment of Savoy opera. These were light operas or operettas whose content was satire and comedy, full of bouncy melodies and beautiful singing, highly entertaining theatrical works staged at London's Savoy theatre. Gilbert and Sullivan did not always get along and in fact there was a time when they ended their professional relationship because personal conflicts surfaced. But they managed to create the world's most beloved light operas, over 40 of them. Their most famous are what I call the Big Three- The H.M.S. Pinafore, The Pirates Of Penzance and The Mikado. Other works include their first hit Trial By Jury, The Yeomen Of The Guard, Princess Ida, The Gondoliers, Patience and several others. A standard signature of Gilbert and Sullivan was in the colorful cast- a comic actor with a special kind of baritone voice, a canary-like and sweet-voiced coloratura or lyric diva, a mezzo soprano with strong chest register and a lyric tenor as the romantic hero. On this album, English conductor Sir Charles Mackerras, a popular figure in the classical music scene and opera, guides the Chorus and Orchestra Of the Welsh National Opera in generally well-delivered performances of excerpts from the operas The Mikado, The H.M.S. Pinafore, The Pirates Of Penzance, Yeomen Of The Guard and Trial By Jury. Although I feel that the recordings made by the D'Oyly Carte Opera Company, with Isodore Godfrey conducting and starring the best cast of the Gilbert and Sullivan repertoire- the singers of the 60's and 70's- tenor Phillip Potter, soprano Valerie Masterson, baritone John Reed, Donald Adams and mezzo soprano Christine Palmer. Their version of the Pirates Of Penzance and the Mikado far outshine the Welsh National Opera in technical mastery and vibrant tone color.

But these are fine excerpts. Especially appealing is the famous and cheerful "Three Little Maids From School Are We", a trio that imitates Japanese style melody. Most of the Mikado does this, for it was inspired by Japanisme or the new fashion in Victorian England- everything Japanese, from prints to paintings to poetry. Gilbert and Sullivan simply "Japanized" their English operettas. The Finale "For He's Gone To Marry Yum Yum" is an ebullient and pleasant finale. Not featured here is the domineering and powerful Katisha, a figure who stands out in the Mikado.

The H.M.S. Pinafore is Gilbert and Sullivan's most popular work. The sea chanty "We Sail The Ocean Blue" opens the opera with appropriate atmosphere and it seems to fit perfectly with the other scene in which the Captain greets his crew and they sing his praises "My Gallant Crew..I am the Captain Of The Pinafore". A beautiful melody that seems to come out of a romantic Offenbach tune is "I"m Called Little Buttercup". The finale, not featured here, is also very engaging "For He Is An Englishman" which can almost resemble a British national anthem. The Yeomen Of The Guard was Gilbert and Sullivan's "serious opera" eventhough it remains very Savoyard. The plot deals with Tudor England and takes place at the London Tower. "I have a song to sing" makes use of what can be taken for an English ballad of the Renaissance. Trial By Jury, about the eccentric and hilarious activity of a court trial, has a sextet that although different in composition, has the sextet "Che Mi Frena" from Donizetti's Lucia Di Lammermoor in mind. All in all, an excellent recording sure to delight young and old.

Pure delight.......2003-08-02

--Gilbert & Sullivan--
William Gilbert and Arthur Sullivan were a match made in heaven, yet on earth their pairing seems even with hindsight a most unlikely coupling. Both were destined for other things, Gilbert in fact for decidedly non-musical careers. Introduced by a mutual friend, Fred Clay, the fledgling lyricist Gilbert met the military-band-leader's son Sullivan and together continued to conspire to inspire the delights of audiences from high Victorian times down to the present, as their work in musical theatre comedy continues to provide merriment throughout the English-speaking world and beyond.

--The Music--
This collection includes highlights from five of the most popular Gilbert & Sullivan operettas: The Mikado, HMS Pinafore, The Pirates of Penzance, The Yeoman of the Guard, and Trial by Jury. The arrangements and orchestrations are delightfully energetic and clear; the characterisation and vocal qualities of the leads are perfect for their roles. The haughty if misplaced Lord of the Admiralty has the perfect combination of insecurity and pompous officiousness. The Plaintiff and the Defendant in the Trial are perfectly cast. This is a collection of highlights - at least three but no more than seven songs each, but this gives a good flavour of the music. The recordings on this collection come from complete performances by Mackerras and the WNO.

--Sir Charles Mackerras--
Mackerras is one of the geniuses of the twentieth century musical scene. Having a conducting career that includes the Hamburg Opera, the English National Opera (formerly Sadlers Wells Opera), and the Welsh National Opera (the performers for this piece), he has also conducted major orchestras on the continent of Europe and in the United States. The holder of many major awards and honourary doctorates, he has devoted much time and energy to the preservation and performance of eighteenth and nineteenth century music, as well the restoration of historical musical venues, such as the Estates Theatre in Prague, scene of the original production of Don Giovanni (Mackerras conducted the opera there to commemorate the bicentenary of the death of Mozart).

--Welsh National Opera Orchestra and Chorus--
The seeds of the WNO were planted in Cardiff during World War II by music lovers; the first performances occurred a year after the war's end, with Cavalleria rusticana and Pagliacci on the bill, with Faust the next night. Popular appeal was so great that the WNO was established, later adding choruses in both Cardiff and Swansea. The professional chorus was established in 1973, with a strength that matches the orchestra. They continue an ambitious performance schedule for recording and live events; Mackerras remains the Conductor Emeritus, as the WNO continues under the direction of Carlo Rizzi. The list of awards the WNO has won over the years is staggering - they are a world class institution by any measure.

--Other performers--
Notable singers such as Richard Stuart, Rebecca Evans, Felicity Palmer, John Mark Ainsley and Anne Howells lead the chorus with stunning vocals and clever characterisations of the parts they play. Many (such as Stuart and Evans) play the leading roles across several of the pieces of the disc.

--Liner Notes--
The liner notes give a good introduction and biographical information about Gilbert and Sullivan, as well as synopses of the five pieces presented here. It does not, unfortunately, include any information about Mackerras, the WNO Orchestra and Chorus, or the other special performers. It also does not include the lyrics to the songs. Were the quality of the CD not so great, this might cost it a star in rating.

--Overall Impressions--
I play this CD in my car, in my home and in my office frequently. It is a great sing-along work and a great comedic relief from the stresses of the day. The music is bubbly and clear; the recording quality is excellent and crisp. I recommend this to any Gilbert & Sullivan lover, any fan of musical comedy, opera and operettas, and anyone who delights in good music.

Delicious G&S samplings abound here........2003-05-06

The first thing I should be saying is "What an infectuous G&S CD." Indeed this is, with this fine sampling of the peppy and bright Mackerras series. I know I have praised its "Mercedes-Benz quality" elsewhere on these pages, but that doesn't stop me from saying that everyone is in fine voice. This generously filled CD may only focus on five operas, but at least you can savour a reasonable choice sampling of delights from each one. Of particular interest is Richard Suart's patter-baritone parts and the soaring lyric soprano of Rebecca Evans. The selection on this disc is filled with a mixture of familiar favourites and lesser-known gems such as the female choruses in Mikado and Pirates. Mackerras is a true G&S conductor, but one who always springs rhythms crisply, and adopts peppy tempo for the fast bits. The one drawback is that this selection is far too infectuous that you'll want to shell out money to buy the full 5-CD Mackerras cycle - an incredible bargain with most of the operas fitted onto one disc each. But still, this is at least a decent G&S sampling for beginners, capped with Steven Ledbetter's copious liner notes. It will leave you wanting to say "dammit I'm going to play it again."

Fine Intro to G&S.......2000-12-30

This is the perfect CD for those who may not be familiar with G&S, or for the initiated who want a smattering but don't have the mother of all CD changers. The difficulty with any G&S Greatest Hits CD is determining which pieces to leave off; while one could easily point to any number equally good bits, it would be difficult to argue about the quality of the choices included. The only problem, such as it is, is that after listening to it I am usually induced to go back and listen to the whole opera anyway. The Mackerras recordings are uniformly excellent. I have read elsewhere the criticism that they are too 'operatic' for light opera. If by this it is meant that the singers are too good, then I leave it to the discretion of the listener when the singing becomes too good to be enjoyable.

Average customer rating:

His music... our trial
Bury this lump of crow bait!
One of Nick Cave's best
Exactly what we love Nick Cave for
The height of an amazing career

Your Funeral...My Trial
Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds
Manufacturer: Mute U.S.
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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From Her to Eternity
The Firstborn Is Dead
Tender Prey
The Good Son
Kicking Against the Pricks

ASIN: B000003Z6H
Release Date: 1995-01-17

Tracks:

Your Funeral My Trial
Stranger Than Kindness
Jacks Shadow
The Carny
She Fell Away
Hard On For Love
Sad Waters
Long Time Man
Scum

Customer Reviews:

His music... our trial.......2006-06-26

The slow dancing cheerfulness of the opening song is rather deceitful when you know that it is the title track of the album.
This is one of the very best Nick Cave albums of the early years. Together with "Tender prey" it marks the transformation from highly experimental albums like "From her to eternity" to the more mainstream blues / pop oriëntated album like "Let love in" and "Murder ballads"
The second song "Stranger than kindness" with it's mesmerising guitarplay, hypnotic percussion, odd backing sounds, and Cave's own monotone voice, is still one of my favorites and ranks among the best.
Another track, "The Carny", an original and rainy spoken word story, accompanied by a mouth-organ who seems the ocho from the far distance, became an instant-classic. During live gigs Cave is sitting on a stool and speaks in vein about the carnival and its strange artists (dog-boy, atlas, half-man, the geeks, the hired hands, some dwarfs and the carny who had a horse named Sorrow...)
Other songs like "Jacks shadow", "She fell away" and "Hard on for love" are powerful stuff, dark maybe, but with an energy drive that takes you by the hand and leads you safely through Cave's musical purgatory.
Is Cave guilty of overwelming us with sad and eerie lyrics? Is he guilty of grabbing is by the throat?
Yes he is, and on our knees we joyfully find him guilty.

Bury this lump of crow bait!.......2006-06-01

My title may seem to suggest that this album is a dud, but in fact it's my favorite line from "The Carny". Nick Cave is an amazing writer and musician. He creates this atmosphere of decay, where love is a ghost that his gruff bassiness paints in shades of regret. I love this album. Stranger Than Kindness never ceases to give me chills. Sad Waters is a lovely tune of adoration and Scum is a nightmare right out of the darkest slums. The Carny never ceases to capture my attention. I can see EVERY SINGLE image that Cave describes in his tale, from the abandoned carriage to the dwarves burying the dead horse (aptly named Sorrow).

I hate having to explain my ratings, but for some reason I just can't give this 5 stars. For as great as Your Funeral, My Trial is, Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds have much better work out there.

Not recommended as a pick-me-up album. If you're in a lonesome mood and need some ballads of desperation, turn down the lights and stick this in. Cave will possess you, as he somehow does with many other examples of his work.

One of Nick Cave's best.......2006-03-16

This is a flawless album from start to finish. Every single track is a five star affair, the insert and photos are fantastic.... there's nothing more to say. BUY THIS ALBUM if you even remotely like Nick Cave. You won't be disappointed.

Exactly what we love Nick Cave for.......2004-01-30

There's so many good moments on this album, like the slow entrance of the snare drum on 'Long Time Man' and the lapse into chorus on 'Your Funeral... My Trial'. It's a dark, brooding piece of gothic poetry full of sex, violence, humour and most of all, love. It's no wonder Nick Cave inspires such admiration and loyalty in his fans - he's supremely talented and possibly the coolest person on the face of the earth.

This is one of his best releases, along with 'Let Love In'. Pick it up - it's a hard listen but it drills itself into your skull after a few listens.

The height of an amazing career.......2002-12-31

Some artists are good enough that to label one work as their best says more than a lot. Nick Cave is by all means one of them. And 'Your Funeral...My Trial' is that golden release. Beginning with the slow title cut, it moves it's way through track after track, sometimes menacing, sometimes violent, sometimes beautiful, and always thought provoking and dark. Highlights? Honestly, all of them. Warning, this album is Nick's least accesable and that says a lot too. But after a few good listens, it works it's way into your brain and it's the best thing since ever- I promise.

Average customer rating:

Not the best sung but among the best in characterization

Operas of Gilbert and Sullivan

Manufacturer: Avid Records UK
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Ballets | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

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The Complete Annotated Gilbert & Sullivan
Gilbert & Sullivan - Patience / Douglas, Olsen, Warlow, Australian Opera
The Authentic Gilbert & Sullivan Songbook
The Complete Gilbert & Sullivan (Box Set)

ASIN: B0001E5U8C
Release Date: 2004-04-20

Tracks:

HMS Pianfore: Overture
HMS Pinafore, Act One: We Sail the Ocean Blue
HMS Pinafore, Act One: Hail, Men O' War's Men
HMS Pinafore, Act One: I'm Called Little Buttercup
HMS Pinafore, Act One: But Tell Me, Who's the Youth
HMS Pinafore, Act One: The Nightingale Sighed for the Moon's ...
HMS Pinafore, Act One: A Maiden Fair to See
HMS Pinafore, Act One: My Gallant Crew, Good Morning
HMS Pinafore, Act One: I Am the Captain of the Pianfore
HMS Pinafore, Act One: Sir, You Are Sad
HMS Pinafore, Act One: Sorry Her Lot Who Loves Too Well
HMS Pinafore, Act One: Over the Bright Blue Sea
HMS Pinafore, Act One: I Am the Monarch of the Sea
HMS Pinafore, Act One: When I Was a Lad I Served a Term
HMS Pinafore, Act One: A British Tar Is a Soaring Soul
HMS Pinafore, Act One: Refrain, Audacious Tar
HMS Pinafore, Act One: Can I Survive This Overbearing?
HMS Pinafore, Act One: Oh Joy, Oh Rapture Unforeseen
HMS Pinafore, Act One: This Very Night
HMS Pinafore, Act One: Let's Give Three Cheers
HMS Pinafore, Act One: Entr'acte
HMS Pinafore, Act Two: Fair Moon to Thee I Sing
HMS Pinafore, Act Two: Things Are Seldom What They Seem
HMS Pinafore, Act Two: The Hours Creep on Apace
HMS Pinafore, Act Two: Never Mind the Why and Wherefore
HMS Pinafore, Act Two: Kind Captain, I've Important Information
HMS Pinafore, Act Two: Carefully on Tiptoe Stealing
HMS Pinafore, Act Two: Pretty Daughter of Mine
HMS Pinafore, Act Two: He Is an Englishman
HMS Pinafore, Act Two: In Uttering a Reprobation
HMS Pinafore, Act Two: Farewell My Own
HMS Pinafore, Act Two: A Many Years Ago
HMS Pinafore, Act Two: Oh Joy, Oh Rapture Unforeseen

Tracks:

Ruddigore: Overture
Ruddigore, Act One: Fair Is Rose as Bright May Day
Ruddigore, Act One: Sir Rupert Murgatroyd
Ruddigore, Act One: If Somebody There Chacned to Be
Ruddigore, Act One: I Know a Youth Who Loves a Little Maid
Ruddigore, Act One: From the Briny Sea
Ruddigore, Act One: I Shipp'd d'Ye See, In a Revenue Sloop
Ruddigore, Act One: My Boy, You May Take It from Me
Ruddigore, Act One: If Well His Suit Has Sped
Ruddigore, Act One: In Sailing O'er Life's Ocean Wide
Ruddigore, Act One: Cheerily Carols the Lark
Ruddigore, Act One: To a Garden Fulls of Posies
Ruddigore, Act One: Welcome Gentry for Your Entry
Ruddigore, Act One: Oh, Why Am I Moody and Sad?
Ruddigore, Act One: You Understand?
Ruddigore, Act One: Hail the Bride of Seventeen Summers
Ruddigore, Act One: When the Buds Are Blossoming
Ruddigore, Act One: Hold, Bride and Bridegroom
Ruddigore, Act One: Oh, Happy the Lily
Ruddigore, Act Two: I Once Was as Meek as a New-Born Lamb
Ruddigore, Act Two: Happily Coupled Are We
Ruddigore, Act Two: In Bygone Days I Hade Thy Love
Ruddigore, Act Two: Painted Emblems of a Race
Ruddigore, Act Two: When the Night Wind Howls
Ruddigore, Act Two: He Yields! He Yields!
Ruddigore, Act Two: I Once Was a Very Abandoned Person
Ruddigore, Act Two: My Eyes Are Fully Open
There Grew a Little Flower
Ruddigore, Act Two: Oh, Happy the Lily

Tracks:

Patience: Overture
Patience, Act One: Twenty Lovesick Maidens We
Patience, Act One: Still Brooding on Their Mad Infatuation
Patience, Act One: I Cannot Tell What This Love May Be
Patience, Act One: The Soldiers of Our Queen
Patience, Act One: In a Doleful Train...Twenty Lovesick Maidens We
Patience, Act One: When I First Put This Uniform On
Patience, Act One: Am I Alone and Unoberved?
Patience, Act One: Long Years Ago, Fourteen Maybe
Patience, Act One: Prithee Pretty Maiden
Patience, Act One: Let the Merry Cymbals Sound
Patience, Act One: Now Tell Us, We Pray You
Patience, Act One: Your Maiden Hearts
Patience, Act One: Come Walk Up and Purchase With Avidity
Patience, Act One: True Love Must Single-Hearted Be
Patience, Act One: I Hear the Soft Note...But Who Is This?
Patience, Act Two: Sad Is That Woman's Lot
Patience, Act Two: Turn, Oh Turn in This Direction
Patience, Act Two: A Magnet Hung in Hardware Shop
Patience, Act Two: Love Is a Plaintive Song
Patience, Act Two: So Go to Him and Say to Him
Patience, Act Two: It's Clear That Medieval Art Alone Retains Its Zest
Patience, Act Two: If Saphir I Choose to Marry
Patience, Act Two: When I Go Out of Door
Patience, Act Two: I'm a Waterloo House Young Man
Patience, Act Two: After Much Debate Internal
Mikado: Overture

Tracks:

Mikado, Act One: If You Want to Know Who We Are
Mikado, Act One: Gentlemen, I Pray You Tell Me
Mikado, Act One: A Wand'ring Minstrel, I
Mikado, Act One: Our Great Mikado, Virtuous Man
Mikado, Act One: Young Man, Despair
Mikado, Act One: And Have I Journey'd for a Month
Mikado, Act One: Behold the Lord High Executioner!
Mikado, Act One: As Some Day It May Happen
Mikado, Act One: Comes a Train of Little Ladies
Mikado, Act One: Three Little Maids from School
Mikado, Act One: So Please You, Sir, We Much Regret
Mikado, Act One: Were You Not Ko-Ko Plighted?
Mikado, Act One: I Am So Proud
Mikado, Act One: With Aspect Stern
Mikado, Act One: Your Revels Cease!
Mikado, Act One: The Hour of Gladness
Mikado, Act Two: Braid the Raven Hair
Mikado, Act Two: The Sun, Whose Rays Are All Ablaze
Mikado, Act Two: Brightly Dawns Our Wedding Day
Mikado, Act Two: Here's a How-De-Do!
Mikado, Act Two: Miya Sama, Miya Sama
Mikado, Act Two: A More Humane Mikado
Mikado, Act Two: The Criminal Cried
Mikado, Act Two: See How the Fates Their Gifts Allot
Mikado, Act Two: The Flowers That Bloom in the Spring
Mikado, Act Two: Alone, And Yet Alive!
Mikado, Act Two: Hearts Do Not Break
Mikado, Act Two: On a Tree by a River a Little Tom-Tit
Mikado, Act Two: There Is Beauty in the Bellow of the Blast
Mikado, Act Two: For He's Gone and Married Yum-Yum

Tracks:

Trial by Jury: Hark the Hour of Ten Is Sounding
Trial by Jury: Now, Jurymen, Hear My Advice
Trial by Jury: Is This the Court of the Exchequer?
Trial by Jury: When First My Old, Old Love I Knew
Trial by Jury: Silence in Court...All Hail, Great Judge
Trial by Jury: When I, Good Friends, Was Called to the Bar
Trial by Jury: Swear Thou the Jury
Trial by Jury: Where Is the Plaintiff?
Trial by Jury: Comes the Broken Flower
Trial by Jury: Oh, Never, Never, Never
Trial by Jury: May It Please You, M'Lud!
Trial by Jury: That She Is Reeling Is Plain to Me
Trial by Jury: Oh Gentlemen, Listen
Trial by Jury: That Seems a Reasonable Proposition
Trial by Jury: A Nice Dilemma We Have Here
Trial by Jury: I Love Him, I Love Hin
Trial by Jury: The Question, Gentlemen Is One of Liquor
Trial by Jury: Oh Joy Unbounded
Pirates of Penzance: Overture
Pirates of Penzance, Act One: Pour, Oh Pour the Pirate Sherry
Pirates of Penzance, Act One: When Frederic Was a Little Lad
Pirates of Penzance, Act One: Oh, Better Far to Live and Die (I Am ...)
Pirates of Penzance, Act One: Oh, False One, You Have Deceived Me!
Pirates of Penzance, Act One: What Shall I Do?...Climbing Over ...
Pirates of Penzance, Act One: Stop, Ladies, Pray!
Pirates of Penzance, Act One: Oh, Is There Not One Maiden Breast?
Pirates of Penzance, Act One: Oh, Sisters, Deaf to Pity's Name
Pirates of Penzance, Act One: Poor Wandering One
Pirates of Penzance, Act One: What Ought We to Do?
Pirates of Penzance, Act One: Stay, We Must Not Lose Our Senses
Pirates of Penzance, Act One: Here's a First-Rate Opportunity
Pirates of Penzance, Act One: Hold, Monsters!
Pirates of Penzance, Act One: I Am the Very Model of a Modern ...
Pirates of Penzance, Act One: Oh, Men of Dark and Dismal Fate
Pirates of Penzance, Act One: I'm Telling a Terrible Story
Pirates of Penzance, Act One: Oh, Master, Hear One Word
Pirates of Penzance, Act One: Pray Observe the Magnanimity

Tracks:

Pirates of Penzance, Act Two: Oh, Dry the Glistening Tear
Pirates of Penzance, Act Two: Then, Frederic, Let Your Escort ...
Pirates of Penzance, Act Two: When the Foeman Bares His Steel
Pirates of Penzance, Act Two: Now for the Pirates' Lair!
Pirates of Penzance, Act Two: Young Frederic!
Pirates of Penzance, Act Two: When You Had Left Our Pirate Fold
Pirates of Penzance, Act Two: Away, Away! My Heart's on Fire
Pirates of Penzance, Act Two: All Is Prepared
Pirates of Penzance, Act Two: Stay, Frederic, Stay!
Pirates of Penzance, Act Two: Ah, Leave Me Not to Pine
Pirates of Penzance, Act Two: In 1940 I of Age Shall Be
Pirates of Penzance, Act Two: No, I'll Be Brave!
Pirates of Penzance, Act Two: Though in Body and in Mind
Pirates of Penzance, Act Two: When a Felon's Not Engaged in His ...
Pirates of Penzance, Act Two: A Rollicking Band of Pirates We
Pirates of Penzance, Act Two: With Cat-Like Tread
Pirates of Penzance, Act Two: Hush, Hush! Not a Word
Pirates of Penzance, Act Two: Sighing Softly to the River
Pirates of Penzance, Act Two: And What Is This, And What Is That?
Pirates of Penzance, Act Two: Frederic Here! Oh Joy!
Pirates of Penzance, Act Two: Poor Wandering Ones
Iolanthe: Overture
Iolanthe, Act One: Tripping Hither, Tripping Thither
Iolanthe, Act One: Iolanthe!
Iolanthe, Act One: Good Morrow, Good Mother
Iolanthe, Act One: Fare Thee Well, Attractive Stranger
Iolanthe, Act One: Good Morrow, Good Lover
Iolanthe, Act One: None Shall Part Us from Each Other
Iolanthe, Act One: Loudly Let the Trumpet Bray!
Iolanthe, Act One: The Law Is the True Embodiment
Iolanthe, Act One: My Well-Loved Lord and Guardian Dear
Iolanthe, Act One: Of All the Young Ladies I Know
Iolanthe, Act One: Nay, Tempt Me Not
Iolanthe, Act One: Spurn Not the Nobly Born
Iolanthe, Act One: My Lords, It May Not Be
Iolanthe, Act One: A Shepherd I
Iolanthe, Act One: When I Went to the Bar as a Very Young Man

Tracks:

Iolanthe, Act One: When Darkly Looms the Day
Iolanthe, Act One: Oh, Shameless One, Tremble!
Iolanthe, Act One: In Babyhood Upon Her Lap I Lay
Iolanthe, Act One: For Riches and Rank That You Befall
Iolanthe, Act One: To You I Give My Heart
Iolanthe, Act One: Tripping, Hither, Tripping Thither
Iolanthe, Act One: The Lady of My Love
Iolanthe, Act One: Go Away, Madam
Iolanthe, Act One: Oh, Chancellor Unwary
Iolanthe, Act One: Young Strephon Is the Kind of Lout (With ...)
Iolanthe, Act Two: When All Night Long a Chap Remains
Iolanthe, Act Two: Strephon's a Member of Parliament
Iolanthe, Act Two: When Britain Really Ruled the Waves
Iolanthe, Act Two: In Vain to Us You Plead
Iolanthe, Act Two: Oh, Foolish Fay
Iolanthe, Act Two: Though P'r'aps I May Incur Your Blame
Iolanthe, Act Two: Love, Unrequited, Robs Me of My Rest
Iolanthe, Act Two: When You're Lying Awake With a Dismal Headache
Iolanthe, Act Two: If You Go in, You're Sure to Win
Iolanthe, Act Two: If We're Weak Enough to Tarry
Iolanthe, Act Two: My, Lord, A Suppliant at Your Feet I Kneel
Iolanthe, Act Two: He Loves! If in the Bygone Years
Iolanthe, Act Two: It May Not Be
Iolanthe, Act Two: Soon as We May
Gondoliers: Overture
Gondoliers, Act One: List and Learn, Ye Dainty Roses
Gondoliers, Act One: Good Morrow, Pretty Maids
Gondoliers, Act One: For the Merriest Fellows Are We
Gondoliers, Act One: Buon'giorno, Signorine
Gondoliers, Act One: We're Called Gondolieri
Gondoliers, Act One: And Now to Choose Our Brides
Gondoliers, Act One: Thank You, Gallant Gondolieri

Tracks:

Gondoliers, Act One: From the Sunny Spanish Shore
Gondoliers, Act One: In Enterprise of Martial Kind (The Duke of ...)
Gondoliers, Act One: O Rapture When Alone Together
Gondoliers, Act One: There Was a Time
Gondoliers, Act One: I Stole the Prince
Gondoliers, Act One: But, Bless My Heart
Gondoliers, Act One: Try We Life-Long
Gondoliers, Act One: Bridegroom and Bride
Gondoliers, Act One: When a Merry Maiden Marries
Gondoliers, Act One: Kind Sirm You Cannot Have the Heart
Gondoliers, Act One: Do Not Give Way
Gondoliers, Act One: Then One of Us Will Be a Queen
Gondoliers, Act One: Replaying, We Sing
Gondoliers, Act One: For Everyone Who Feels Inclined
Gondoliers, Act One: Come, Let's Sway
Gondoliers, Act One: Then Away We Go to an Island Fair
Gondoliers, Act Two: Of Happiness the Very Pith
Gondoliers, Act Two: Rising Early in the Morning
Gondoliers, Act Two: Take a Pair of Sparkling Eyes
Gondoliers, Act Two: Here We Are, At the Risk of Our Lives
Gondoliers, Act Two: Dance a Cachucha, Fandango, Bolero
Gondoliers, Act Two: There Lived a King
Gondoliers, Act Two: In a Contemplative Fashion
Gondoliers, Act Two: With Ducak Pomp and Ducal Pride
Gondoliers, Act Two: On the Day When I Was Wedded
Gondoliers, Act Two: To Help Unhapppy Commoners
Gondoliers, Act Two: Small Titles Abd Orders
Gondoliers, Act Two: I Am a Courtier Grave and Serious
Gondoliers, Act Two: Here Is a Case Unprecedented
Gondoliers, Act Two: Now Let the Loyal Lleges Gather Round
Gondoliers, Act Two: The Royal Prince

Tracks:

Yeomen of the Guard: Overture
Yeomen of the Guard, Act One: When Maiden Loves
Yeomen of the Guard, Act One: Tower Warders, Under Orders
Yeomen of the Guard, Act One: When Our Gallant Norman Foes
Yeomen of the Guard, Act One: Alas, I Waver to and Fro
Yeomen of the Guard, Act One: Is Life a Boon?
Yeomen of the Guard, Act One: Here's a Man of Jollity
Yeomen of the Guard, Act One: I Have a Song to Sing, O!
Yeomen of the Guard, Act One: How Say You, Maiden, Will You Wed?
Yeomen of the Guard, Act One: I've Jibe and Joke
Yeomen of the Guard, Act One: 'Tis Done! I Am a Bride!
Yeomen of the Guard, Act One: Were I Thy Bride
Yeomen of the Guard, Act One: Oh, Sergeant Meryll, Is It True?
Yeomen of the Guard, Act One: Forbear My Friends
Yeomen of the Guard, Act One: The Prisoner Comes to Meet His Doom
Yeomen of the Guard, Act Two: Night Has Spread Her Pall Once More
Yeomen of the Guard, Act Two: Oh! A Private Buffoon Is a Light-Hearted
Yeomen of the Guard, Act Two: Hereupon We're Both Agreed
Yeomen of the Guard, Act Two: Free from His Fetters Grim
Yeomen of the Guard, Act Two: Strange Adventure!
Yeomen of the Guard, Act Two: Hark! What Was That, Sir?
Yeomen of the Guard, Act Two: A Man Who Would Woo a Fair Maid
Yeomen of the Guard, Act Two: When a Wooer Goes A-Wooing

Tracks:

Yeomen of the Guard, Act Two: Comes the Pretty Young Bride
Yeomen of the Guard, Act Two: Hold, Pretty One!
Yeomen of the Guard, Act Two: All Thought of Leonard Meryll Set Aside
H.M.S. Pinafore
Yeomen of the Guard
Di Ballo: Overture - Birmingham Symphony Orchestra,
Pineapple Poll Ballet Suite, Scene One: Opening Dance
Pineapple Poll Ballet Suite, Scene One: Poll's Dance and Pas de Deux
Pineapple Poll Ballet Suite, Scene One: Belaye's Solo
Pineapple Poll Ballet Suite, Scene One: Pas de Trois
Pineapple Poll Ballet Suite, Scene One: Finale
Pineapple Poll Ballet Suite, Scene Two: Poll's Solo
Pineapple Poll Ballet Suite, Scene Two: Jasper's Solo
Pineapple Poll Ballet Suite, Scene Two: Belaye's Solo and Sailor's ...
Pineapple Poll Ballet Suite, Scene Two: Poll's Solo
Pineapple Poll Ballet Suite, Scene Two: Entry of Belaye With ...
Pineapple Poll Ballet Suite, Scene Two: Reconciliation
Pineapple Poll Ballet Suite, Scene Two: Grand Finale

Customer Reviews:

Not the best sung but among the best in characterization.......2005-07-09

Between 1949 and 1951, the D'Oyly Carte Company was very busy recording nine of the Gilbert & Sullivan works onto mono LPs for the Decca label (or the London, as it was known over here), with comic lead Martyn Green in all but "Trial By Jury." After he left the company, Green was supplanted by Peter Pratt, who recorded the comic lead roles in "The Sorcerer" and "Princess Ida." All of these have waited a long time to appear on CDs and several companies have taken advantage of the copyright lapse to issue them at very high prices and at least one at very budget ones.

But now I find that all of the 1949-1951 sets are available on the Avid Entertainment label as a boxed set of 10 discs (AMSC 780-789). To keep things compact, the Avid people unavoidably had to place on the same disc Act I of one opera after Act II of the one before. There is also orchestral bonus material towards the end including orchestral selections from "Pinafore" and "Yeomen of the Guard," Sullivan's salute to the dance "Overture Di Ballo," and the entire score of the G&S-based ballet "Pineapple Poll."

Green is good and even better are the bottomless basso of Richard Watson, the most famous Mikado of them all Darrell Fancourt, and the sympathetic contralto of Ella Halman. Only tenor Leonard Osborne does not come over very well on recordings, although he was very good on stage. No true "Savoyard" will want to be without this collection.

Those who are perfectly happy with less will want "Gilbert & Sullivan: Highlights and Overtures" (AMSC 800), a double-CD set in which there are 27 selections from the complete recordings and the 9 overtures, plus "Overture Di Ballo." A great starter kit to introduce newcomers to the magic of the G&S team.

Average customer rating:

cream of the cream
Gorgeous and lush!
Strange and wonderful avant-garde opera
One of the best
Real live electric combustion

Songs from the Trilogy

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

Philip Glass - Songs from Liquid Days
Satyagraha
The Photographer
Glass: Akhnaten
Glass: Symphony no 5 (Choral): Requiem, Bardo, Nirmanakaya

ASIN: B0000026Y7
Release Date: 1989-08-07

Tracks:

Protest (Satyagraha)
Evening Song (Satyagraha)
Hymn To The Sun (Akhnaten)
Trail/Prison (Einstein)
Akhnatin And Nefertiti (Akhnatin)
Kuru Field Of Justice (Satyagraha)
Knee I (Einstein)
Tolstoy Farm (Satyagraha)
Window Of Appearances (Akhnatin)
Bed (Einstein)
Epilouge (Akhnatin)
Knee 5 (Einstein)

Customer Reviews:

cream of the cream.......2006-01-20

The three operas comprising Glass' trilogy are something special, but this disc of arias from those three operas is even better. The selections themselves, the pacing of the sequencing, and absolutely top-drawer performances make this a standout disc. It's a great introduction disc for those seeking to learn more about Philip Glass's operas without having to invest in the full length recordings, although Akhnaten especially is a masterpiece and more than worthy of the price for the complete opera. I've given this disc to many friends and received only grateful raves, even from those already familiar with Glass' music. Douglas Perry's singing deserves special mention; his singing of Evening Song from Satyagraha is perfect in every way, with immaculate phrasing and a kind of passion of restraint that is mesmerizing. Glass' intentions are deceptive to the ear; he is master of a simplicity that keeps giving. The selections from Einstein on the Beach are richly complex; even after years of listening, new directions continue to appear in the score, each time revealing another dimension, an idea not really noticed before will suddenly become clear and engaging, creating a wonderfully familiar listening experience. Beautiful stuff. The melismatic Bed aria from Einstein on the Beach is a joy, heartbreaking as it is. Milagro Vargas contributes passionate singing in the Window of Appearances, and some marvelous ensemble singing is generously spread throughout the entire disc. Glass' best work may be found in his opera scores, and this disc presents the cream of the cream. Check it for yourself. You won't be disappointed.

Gorgeous and lush!.......2004-06-02

This album is my favorite Philip Glass album. I remember the discordance of "Glassworks" in the early 1980s when Philip Glass became more well known with Steve Reich, John Adams, and other "minimalist" composers. Somewhere along the line, Glass has lost a lot of the real shocking discordance that he used to express energy. Some individuals cannot stand Glass's music and lament about its repetitive (and therefore boring) nature. Repetition is the real seed of this music. The repetition by itself can be a simple and beautiful thing, just like a fugue. Then it grows and blossoms out into various new and unexpected ways. I think that Glass really stuns the listener by using the speaking voice as an instrument. Voices read at times. The importance is in the sound of the voice, not the meaning of what is being read. It's an intellectual exercise as well as a lush and beautiful garden of sound and movement. Listen to it and experience its simple beauties. This is not country music. This is not "traditional" opera. It's a work of creativity and sensitivity. Shut your eyes and enjoy.

Strange and wonderful avant-garde opera.......2001-05-08

Man . . . how the hell do I start?

This is a collection of pieces from three operas scored by Philip Glass: "Satyagraha," "Akhnaten" and "Einstein on the Beach." They're about spiritual and moral pioneers: Ghandi in South Africa, the Egyptian leader who introduced monotheism and, well, Einstein.

I haven't seen these; I'm not sure if I'd like them. But some of these pieces are so stunningly beautiful and profound that I feel like looking up the full scores.

Not for everybody, especially the bits from Einstein, which consist of barely audible and repetitive muttering to the accompanyment of a chorus chanting numbers. Damn cool.

One of the best.......1999-12-01

I would say this is Mr. Glass' best work. The songs are simply beautiful. The orchestration is rich and complex, yet gives a tranquil quality. I highly recommend this album.

Real live electric combustion.......1999-01-25

Alright people listen up... This is Dusty Tex Tumbleweed of the American Funboys and I have a thing or two which I would like to share with all the Philip Glass fans out there regarding this here album. At first I was'nt quite sure what to make of it - I was a little hesitant because of the weird-looking artwork on the cover { I usually pick out my music based on several criteria - one of which is album cover art... I only see in pinks and browns so some album cover art makes my eyes hurt } When I saw this album it immediately made me feel sick to my stomach, but when I listened to it I was pleasantly surprised. Philip Glass went out on a limb by combining monotonous keyboard riffs and bizarre electronic chirrups { made my girlfriend Shawangtang have a kiniption fit on my red leather sofa.. } Anyway, I found that the more I listened to this album the more I liked it - at one point about seven minutes into the first movement you can distinctly here the sound of a dozen or so camouflage parrots sqwaking in time with the simple yet extremely tedious keyboard noodling of this great boring composer Philip Glass... simply ear spliting. I'm going to wrap up this album review by saying that Philip Glass is an amazing gentleman with an ear for really live electric sounding combustion... Peace, I'm out { Shawangtang and I are taking our manager Sir William Buorbonaugh out for raisin corndogs and chocolate ice water... and keep an eye out for me and the rest of the funboys this summer on the Tab sodapop steam-engine jetski tour }

Les Miserables - The Complete Symphonic Recording

Average customer rating:

Great, definitely go with this and TAC
Awesome
Bought it used - thank God!
magnificent!
Mixed Feelings

Les Miserables - The Complete Symphonic Recording
Claude-Michel Schonberg
Manufacturer: Relativity
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Modesty Blaise
Teach Yourself Counselling
Sapphire and Steel - The Complete Series
Target Costing: The Next Frontier in Strategic Cost Management
Understanding Variation: The Key to Managing Chaos (2nd Edition)

ASIN: B000003BVK
Release Date: 1990-05-22

Tracks:

Prologue
Valjean's Soliloquy (What Have I Done?)
At The End Of The Day
I Dreamed A Dream
Lovely Ladies
Fantine's Arrest
The Runaway Cart
Who Am I?-The Trial
Fantine's Death
The Confrontation
Castle On A Cloud
Master Of The House

Tracks:

The Bargain-The Waltz Of Treachery
Look Down
The Robbery-Javert's Intervention (Another Brawl)
Stars
Eponine's Errand
The ABC Cafe-Red And Black
Do You Hear The People Sing?
Rue Plumet-In My LIfe
A Heart Full Of Love
The Attack On Rue Plumet
One Day More!
At The Barricade (Upon These Stones)
On My Own
Building The Barricade
Javert's Arrival
Little People
A Little Fall Of Rain
Night Of Anguish
First Attack

Tracks:

Drink With Me
Bring Him Home
Dawn Of Anguish
The Second Attack (Death Of Gavroche)
The Final Battle
The Sewers-Dog Eats Dog
Javert's Suicide
Turning
Empty Chairs At Empty Tables
Every Day (Marius And Cosette)
Valjean's Confession
The Wedding Chorale- Beggars At The Feast
Epilogue (Finale)
Bonus Track

Customer Reviews:

Great, definitely go with this and TAC.......2005-08-31

Right now, there are four official English-language versions of Les Miserables: the Original London Cast Recording, the Original Broadway Cast Recording, the Complete Symphonic Recording, and the 10th Anniversary Concert Recording. Les Mis' addicts are best served by purchasing all recordings, as they showcase different stages (as in the OLC and the OBC) of the development of this mega-musical, as well as the interesting variations in presentation and performances by the different casts and orchestras.

If you're the average musical-theater listener who can't afford to buy all available English-language recordings, however, my advice would be to get the CSR (due to the fact that it's "complete") and the TAC recording (due to the fact that performer- and performance-wise, it's leaps and bounds better than all of the other recordings). You deserve no less.

Awesome.......2005-07-03

I can't believe all the negative comments about Gary Morris. He is so much better in the role than Colm Wilkinson. I've seen Gary perform the part three times and there is NO better Jean ValJean (seen the play 14 times). It's an international cast and some of the accents do take time getting used to. But the power of the music supercedes it all. Listen with your heart people. It's so incredible.

Bought it used - thank God!.......2005-06-17

"Les Miserables" is a marvelous musical; a stunningly faithful interpretation of Victor Hugo's masterpiece, with an inspiring storyline and unforgettable characters. There are 2 reasons for buying a Les Mis CD - (1) you've seen a performance and want ONE CD to remind you of it or (2) you've become a les Mis junkie (like me) and want multiple versions so you too can hold forth on the rival merits of Andy Warlow vs Michael Maguire, Patty LuPone vs Ruthie Henshaw, Frances Ruffelle vs Kaho Shimada vs Lea Solonga. If you are in the first category, you really want the Tenth Anniversary Concert. The TAC has the complete storyline (albeit slightly abridged), it was recorded live (so there's an unique intensity and chemistry between performers), and from top to bottom it has by far the best cast.

However, if you're a serious Les Mis fan, you should buy this CD (in addition), simply because it does have the complete score. (The trouble with THAT is that it includes practically the only misstep in the whole script - if Jean Valjean has his number branded on his chest, then how is it credible that someone else will be convicted in his place?) I bought it for that reason and to hear other interpretations of the roles (in particular Andy Warlow's). I have all 4 versions, and they have all have their pluses and minuses, but frankly, I'm glad I didn't pay full price for this one. This version has a rather weak cast in general, but that does add to the fun arguing about it. On the plus side, it has Philip Quast ( THE BEST Javert, but he's even better on the TAC), Michael Ball (THE BEST Marius, also on the OLC and TAC versions), and Andy Warlow (a stirring Enjorlas for sure, but not THAT much better than Michael Maguire on the OBC and TAC). The scenes at the barricade are the best part of the CD. Kaho Shimada is an uneven Eponine, OK sometimes, less so at others. Debbie Byrne (Fantine) is OK, but I don't find her as moving as Patty LuPone (OLC) or Ruthie Henshaw (TAC). Tracy Shayne (Cosette) is irratating, not nearly as sweet as Judy Kuhn (OLB and TAC) or even Rebecca Caine (OLC). I find Barry James and especially Gay Soper (M. and Mme. Thenardier) grating as well.

I really miss Colm Wilkinson (OLC, OBC and TAC). OK, he has a unique singing style, but such heart. Not always perfect, but so powerful and emotional. All his solos and "Confrontation" just stop me dead in my tracks. The sweetness and purity of his "Bring Him Home" and "Epilogue" move me to tears. But really, there must be someone else who can do at least an adequate job or the show wouldn't have run so long in so many venues. I am willing to listen to another interpretation, but not this one. This is the central role in the play, it really can't survive without a good performance here. Gary Morris is horrible as Jean Valjean, cringe-provoking at times, merely weak at others. He's totally overmatched by Quast in "Confrontation" and by everyone in "One Day More" and "Epilogue". I haven't tried the recommendation of one reviewer of listening while squinting and shaking my head hard, but I don't see how that will help. Morris's "What have I done?", "Bring Him Home" and "Valjean's Confession" make me cover my ears or send me running for the fast forward button, although "Who am I?" isn't so bad. (I just tried the head shaking trick, it didn't help.)

magnificent!.......2005-06-15

Ok, I admit it. I have long been a fan of musicals, but I was only exposed to Les Mis a few months ago. My roommate loaned me this recording, and I fell in love. I played nothing but this soundtrack for the next several weeks.

As this is the only recording I've heard fully, I cannot give any comparisons between the performers here and those on other versions, but I do wish to give my general impression of the cast.

*Gary Morris (Valjean) - he has a strong, clear voice with which it is hard to find fault. He sings with emotion and passion, and I cannot imagine ever tiring of hearing him as Jean Valjean. If I had to give a complaint, it would be that I could imagine a voice with a little more distinct character...something a little riskier for the part of someone so complex.

*Philip Quast (Javert) - wow, I love deep voices, and his is so rich! I love when he hits the low note near the beginning of "Confrontation" ...I've seriously replayed that part over and over again just because it sends shivers through me...haha, I think you get the idea. This guy is good.

*Debbie Byrne (Fantine) - her voice took some getting used to because at first it seemed to me a little uncontrolled, almost like she could capture the fullness of the sound but not quite hit the notes. However, the more I listen to her, the more I enjoy her. Her voice has a wonderful texture, something you totally miss when listening to the super-clear, trilling sopranos that seem to be found all over most other musicals.

*Kaho Shimada (Eponine) - her voice took a little getting used to as well. I was a little confused until I realized she was Japanese, for though I wouldn't say you hear an accent, her voice does have a very different quality to it. Still, I enjoyed her performance very much. Her voice is trembling with emotion the entire time, almost like she can hardly control it...it is quite moving.

*Tracy Shayne (Cosette) - wow. I'm sorry, is Cosette supposed to be this shrill? Turn it off! While I'm impressed at some of the notes she hits, I don't think it's supposed to make you want to cover your ears.

*Michael Ball (Marius) -Ball makes Marius, a rather annoying character if you ask me, into someone actually likable, if not lovable. He's passionate and romantic, but not vapid. Probably my favorite vocal performance.

*Gay Soper and Barry James (the Thernardiers) - their voices are rather grating, but that's the point, right? Very entertaining performances...particularly in "Master of the House" (which, it's true, somehow manages to be stuck in your head all day).

*Anthony Warlow (Enjorolas) - very appropriate voice...manly and vibrant. If he doesn't make you want to go out and fight, then there's no help for you!

Overall, the performances were wonderful. I highly recommend this CD. A great recording of a great musical!

Mixed Feelings.......2005-04-20

I bought this recently, and it was an object lesson in why I ought to research an item before purchasing it.

For me, it's truly a toss-up as to whether this is a recording worth purchasing. The main benefit-a far from insignificant one-is that it is a complete recording full of much more materiel than can be found on the London or Broadway cast recordings. Basically, I was far from satisfied. The liner notes are error ridden, and the casting was not as good as possible. Gary Morris struck me as too young for the part, and Gay Soper (Mme. Thenardier) has a voice akin to the sound of fingernails on a chalkboard. But, in the absence of a complete Broadway recording, this still may be the best version available to buy. Be sure, however, to supplement it with another version. (The Tenth Anniversary recording might be the best.)

Average customer rating:

ed at his best
A rare miss
SONGS FOR PARENTS WHO ENJOY DRUGS
fun - for about one listen

Songs for Parents Who Enjoy Drugs
Hamell on Trial
Manufacturer: Righteous Babe
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000CQO14I
Release Date: 2006-02-07

Tracks:

Inquiring Minds
Heat
Wheels (Part 1)
Pretty Colors
Apartment #4
Hey Boss
Values
Maddy's (Part 1)
Jerkin'
Socializing
Maddy's (Part 2)
Coulter's Snatch
Civil Disobedience
Mommy's Not Talking Today
Father's Advice
Wheels (Part 2)

Album Description

On Songs for Parents Who Enjoy Drugs, Hamell on Trial uses his father-son relationship to address the American machine with a stellar blend of bold lyricism and candid politics. "This album is for all those liberal-minded people who can't fathom raising a child in this world of non-tolerance," explains Ed Hamell, otherwise known as the string-punishing, acoustic punk minstrel Hamell On Trial.

On his second LP for Righteous Babe Records, Hamell gets in touch with his outer child right before our ears. Newfound fatherhood is the inspiration here: Hamell's three-year-old son, Detroit, is all over the album, as a character in his dad's lyrics and as a guest vocalist. And the one-man-punk-band is expanded with the help of a few friends (Andrew Case on drums, Mike Napolitano on electric guitar), as well as the production wizardry of Ani DiFranco (who also contributes backing vocals, synth bass, keys, drums and kazoo).

But this isn't a Harry Chapin kind of party. The opening track, "Inquiring Minds," finds Hamell pondering what he'll say when his kid asks him if he ever did drugs or had premarital sex, eventually deciding, "I'm gonna lie." "Values" finds Detroit using our unqualified president to get out of learning his ABCs. "Is there some kind of presidential school?/Some kind of test or exam to show that you're the qualified man?" Hamell sings over ironically playful acoustic plucking. "Dad, I'm gonna hold off on class/You can stick the alphabet up your ass."

While he's no stranger to social issues, Songs For Parents… may be his most scathing indictment of the powers that be—and funny enough to incite a laugh riot. "I've never been as topical or angry as I am now, and that is a direct result of the kid. He's going to grow up in a country that's in need of a serious mend, and as always, I cling to humor to get me through it."

Hamell on Trial provides witty insight to the question, "How do I raise a child in today's world?" And like every good children's story, Songs For Parents Who Enjoy Drugs has a strong moral: The guitar is mightier than the sword.

Customer Reviews:

ed at his best.......2006-02-16

awesome work. one of his best.buy it and play it LOUD.

A rare miss.......2006-02-14

I've got every Hammell record besides the spoken word one (even his very unassuming pre-Mercury debut). I think it's a travesty that he's still playing coffeeshops when crumby bands like Franz Ferdinand sell out arenas. But to be quite honest, this album kinda sucks. The songwriting is weak - too many forced rhymes and silly tunes that reek more of novelty than the raw passion of his best work. A love song about monogamous jerk off fantasies is funny for about two minutes and the one on this record clocks in at 3:39.

Ani DiFranco's production has all the hallmarks of her own work, which has been unlistenable since the late 90's. We hardly ever hear Hammel's signature Mack Truck acousic powerchords. Instead we're subjected to lame studio effects. Bottom line, stay away from this one unless you already have everything else in his catolog. I'll be interested to see if any of these tracks come off better live though.

Ed, if you're reading this, don't worry. After a record as solid as Tough Love, it was bound to happen. Everybody has a miss once in a while. I'll eagerly await the next record. Ani's a sweetheart but don't let her come over for a while okay?

SONGS FOR PARENTS WHO ENJOY DRUGS.......2006-02-13

As posted by: Brian Baker / edited by: Mark Breen
http://www.citybeat.com/2006-02-08/musicshorttakes.shtml

Ed Hamell plays his black acoustic Gibson with the elemental fury of an approaching storm front, sings like a man possessed by Babylonian demons and writes noirish crime tales, political tracts and morality plays with Elmore Leonard's underbelly perspective and the Weather Underground's righteous, militant indignation.

Hamell's last album, Tough Love, was his fascinating response to his near-fatal hit-and-run accident and his latest is a similar reflection in the wake of the birth of his son. If you're afraid that parenthood might have mellowed Hamell toward syrupy sentimentality or blunted his rage, the title alone should allay your fears.

If anything, Songs for Parents Who Enjoy Drugs may be Hamell's most visceral social and political work to date, as evidenced by the hilariously pornographic anti-right screed of "Coulter's Snatch," the crime-as-political-statement anthem of "Civil Disobedience" or the father/son chat in "Values."

Hamell's fatherhood dilemma comes to the fore in "Inquiring Minds," as he details his sordid past and envisions how he will frame his response when his son asks him about his misdeeds ("I'm gonna lie"). For those who love it when Hamell spins dark yarns from society's fringes, he doesn't disappoint with "Heat" and the revenge fantasy of "Hey Boss." Songs for Parents Who Enjoy Drugs is proof positive that there is absolutely no danger of Ed Hamell ever going gently into that good night. (Brian Baker)

Grade: A

fun - for about one listen.......2006-02-13

Yeah, the lyrics are funny. But they aren't especially insightful or musically inventive. A song about lying to his kids about having taken drugs? A song about winos on the bus, complete with out-of-tune singalong kids?

Even worse, Hamell's voice has a sort of "I don't really mean this" irony that sends me running for something with more heart. I made it through one listen, but I doubt I'll play it again. John Prine covered this territory with a lot more sincerity.

Average customer rating:

The Freedom Kicks
French Kicks Ass
Following Waves
awesome second album
New York has another great band.

The Trial of the Century
French Kicks
Manufacturer: Vagrant Startime
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B00020HAMO
Release Date: 2004-05-04

Tracks:

One More Time
Don't Thank Me
The Trial Of The Century
Oh Fine
The Falls
Was It A Crime
Following Waves
You Could Not Decide
Yes, I Guess
Only So Long
Better Time

Customer Reviews:

The Freedom Kicks.......2005-07-26

I cant get enough of this record. Im not sure i know a person who has heard this alblum and not like it. It is full of feeling. A somewhat uncomparable sound. One more time gets things started and is a standout on the alblum.

French Kicks Ass.......2005-03-30

I hate comparing bands or describing what they sound like. It bugs me becuase every other band sounds like Pink Floyd or The Cure. If you like formulaic sub-pop indie rock with lots of piano then you will like this album. I saw them in DC last weekend and they are very tight live. Excellent show. The dude with the spotlight review was pretty much right. This is very controlled and restrained rock. Very catchy and very hip. Hipsters love these NY boys. I disagree with that spotlight review becuse One Time Bells was very mellow as well. I dont know which one I like more but I'm leaning toward the last one. Nontheless, buy this album, it will make you happy and it will probably make you sing along, just do it alone. These vocals arent for amateurs. I know, from experience.

Following Waves.......2005-02-26

From my blogspot site "The Boy Reviewer"

I'm not sure why this record isn't being played everywhere. I picked it up last summer and it's been at the top of my heavy rotation playlist ever since. The French Kicks have never made a bad record, but they have never made one quite so good. The Trial Of The Century finds the Kicks exploring new territory, venturing further away from the raw Marcata sound that characterizes their earlier records. The main difference? Harmony and Melody. This is an album that you want to sing along to.

The album opens with "One More Time," an urgent piece of indie-pop gold, driven by a pumping circus organ flanked by a Korgis-esque synth and a throbbing bassline that prods the song onward. The title track is another gem: a sincere, almost duotonic edxample of elegance in simiplicty. "Following Waves" and "Oh Fine" are other noteworthy tracks, beautiful for their directness.

But there aren't any tracks here that don't deliver the goods. The French Kicks don't mess around on this record. The songwriting is superb. The sounds are clean and interesting for the almost old-fashioned lack of special effects. There is no posing, no deliberate snarls, no pointless or intentional obfuscation, and no riding on the coattails of hipper, older, proven cult heros or revisited fads. The Trial Of The Century works for itself. The French Kicks have arrived.

awesome second album.......2005-01-12

I honestly didn't think the French Kicks could possibly top their first album 'One Time Bells' and I'm glad to say I was wrong. On 'Trial of the Century', the songs are much more melodic and have a greater range in emotion. I'm sad Nick gave up his position as singer AND drummer (leaving the ranks of the great Phil Collins) but he is still a brilliant songwriter. Each song wrenches with emotion and has such a repeat listening factor that it almost makes you sick. The slower melodies and in depth lyrics make this album even better than the first. Awesome record.

New York has another great band........2005-01-03

First of all, see this band live as soon as possible. You'll find that they somehow execute their sound even better on stage than they do in the studio. They are intense and fun to see.

Secondly, this is a really solid album. Anyone who says that all the songs sound alike has clearly not listened to the album enough. There are a couple of weak tracks, I will admit that, but the majority of the album is excellent. It is the type of record that requires multiple listens to fully comprehend. The standout tracks are "Only So Long", "Falls", "Trial Of The Century", "You Could Not Decide" and "One More Time". That's half the album! Each song is very well written and crafted excellently. Yes, they do use more synth on the record and at points it works to their disadvantage. However, it is a great record and I would venture to say one of the best records to come out of New York in a couple of years. The French Kicks should be getting more of that New York media attention (along with The Walkmen) while The Strokes and Interpol should be getting less.

Though their first LP was equally as good (if not better) this one solidifies them as a New York force to reckoned with. They have matured and on this sophomore effort, they turn in more hooks and use less dissonance. If you enjoy their debut record, buy this one. If you enjoy this one, buy their debut "One Time Bells". The two records are excellent and have a stark contrast in style and overall sound-scape.

Buy it. See them live.

The Complete Gilbert & Sullivan (Box Set)

Average customer rating:

Don't underestimate those "unknown" Operettas!!
A few details
Wonderful set, if a little inconsistent at times.

The Complete Gilbert & Sullivan (Box Set)

Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B00008LJEO
Release Date: 2003-05-13

Customer Reviews:

Don't underestimate those "unknown" Operettas!!.......2005-07-07

This is, as far as I know - the only way of buying the "official" recordings of "The Grand Duke" and "Utopia" - which seem to be otherwise out of print!! Several of the others are not that easy to get either.

In any case - most people getting this set will already have the Mikado, and very probably Pirates and Pinafore for that matter, so you're really getting it for the others.

So just for the record - someone has to say this!

The Mikado is (of course) a wonderful piece, but it enjoys its long running status as the most successful of all the G&S operettas very largely for "extra-musical" reasons. It is visually so wonderful, with all those great authentic costumes, and the whole idea of satirising English institutions by pretending they are Japanese is of course brilliantly funny.

Again, Pirates and Pinafore enjoy a lot of their acclaim simply because we have heard them so often. And at least part of the initial success of these (admittedly very funny and entertaining) pieces was the vogue for "nautical drama" on the popular Victorian stage.

Iolanthe, Ruddigore, and Yoemen are all MUCH stronger musically than any of what another reviewer here keeps calling the "trilogy". Patience, Princess Ida, and the Gondoliers all excel either "nautical" operetta, at least musically, although not, perhaps, the Mikado. And I have had a lot of fun listening to my recording of the Sorcerer - although I think most at least of the other G&S operettas are even more interesting.

As for "Trial by Jury" it is really another thing altogether - but in its kind the most perfect thing either Gilbert or Sullivan had anything to do with!

This leaves Utopia and the Grand Duke.

Both of these were produced after the long running friendship between G&S had soured, and they have been sadly neglected ever since. Utopia is none the less both musically beautiful and very funny, and well worth taking an effort to come to grips with. The main point of the satire (which many commentators and reviewers seem to miss) is the way that the English language and British (especially English) institutions were being adopted, often rather uncritically, by countries around the world (most, but not all, of them members of the British Empire, of course). India is perhaps the country Gilbert had most in mind, but you could set it in any of a dozen other countries. The residual problems this has left in the post-colonial world ensure that this work is still far from dated. In some ways this operetta is about globalisation! What could possibly be LESS dated than that!

The Grand Duke, on the other hand, is a bit of an odd man out - I suppose you still have to say it is the weakest of all the G&S efforts. It's the ONLY one that didn't score a very respectable run on its first outing. Surprisingly, however, if an attempt is made to duplicate the musical and (especially) dialogue cuts that G&S would have done themselves if they had not by this time been at each other's throats all the time, a very entertaining piece can be made of it. I was very agreeably surprised by the Ohio Light Opera recording, which does just that - and I am coming round to the idea that the only thing really wrong with the Duke is that it is too long.

ANYWAY:

For all people (especially callow youth) who remain convinced that G&S only wrote three operettas worth listening to - all I can say is, buy this set, and give the lesser known ones a chance. Make sure you have a libretto in your hands as you listen, of course. It may even just need a single hearing in some cases, but otherwise, be patient. In the meantime, you really cannot have any conception of what you are missing.

A few details.......2004-03-28

This 24-CD album consists of 12 plastic cases, each with a thin booklet giving background and plot summaries for the works on its 2 enclosed CD's. Most of the album consists of 15 operettas, 2 of which (Cox and Box, The Zoo) have texts not by Gilbert and 7 of which (The Sorcerer, Princess Ida, The Mikado, Ruddigore, Yeomen of the Guard, Utopia Limited, The Grand Duke) omit most of the spoken dialogue. Before listening to any of these operettas that you don't know well, you'll want to obtain a copy of its text so you can read along and not miss any of the words or the wit.

Wonderful set, if a little inconsistent at times........2003-07-07

If you thought that the Sargent set of G&S opera recordings was gargantum enough, then this D'Oyly Carte cycle is even more gargantum. Although it is more expensive (because of the four extra operas that the Sargent cycle did not include), this complete 24-CD set is like a joy to behold. There is a debate as to whether this is better than the Sargent cycle, but I like to think that this is a delight from first disc to last, because of the idiomatic sense of polish that these recordings seem to have, and are given a life that makes them able to breathe well. This is all thanks to Isidore Godfrey and Royston Nash's conducting. I know that the performances may not be entirely consistent (this is evident when you compare the performance and recording quality of Mikado and Pirates with those of Gondoliers and Pinafore), but this is only a matter of personal preference. The 1960s performances were given more sumptuous and well-detailed recordings than the 1970s recordings, made when the performing style was not so fresh. But anyway, I still think that this is definitely a good buy for anyone who loves G&S. Even with the consistency of Sargent's cheaper EMI set, I would still say: do go ahead to invest in the set because of the liveliness and style in this complete G&S cycle that Sargent never (hardly ever) tackles. The only thing is: I would also like to suggest complementing it with the 1957 Decca D'Oyly Carte recordings of Mikado and Pirates, recently released by the Sounds on CD label, so that these recordings can do justice to the enormous spirit of these operas.

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