Carl Schuricht Conducts¿

Track Listings

1. Prelude/Vorspiel Act 1 - Parsifal .

2. Prelude/Vorspiel from Act 1 - Tristan und Isolde

3. Morgendammerung und Siegfrieds Rheinfahrt -Gotterdammerung

4. Siegfried's Funeral March - Gotterdammerung

5. "Siegfried-Idyll" for small orchestra

6. Good Friday Spell/Karfreitagszauber (Act 3)- Parsifal

7. Finale - Act 3 - Parsifal

Editorial Reviews
Album Description
The legacy of Carl Schuricht has been slow in coming to disc. Coming from a musical family and later a student of both Max Reger and Engelbert Humperdinck, Schuricht was an artist of tremendous talent, intelligence and taste. During a long and productive life, Schuricht stood at the helm of virtually every major orchestra in the world, including the Concertgebouw, Vienna Philharmonic, Berlin Philharmonic, London Philharmonic in addition to serving as chief guest conductor of the SDR (now SWR) Orchestra from 1950 to 1966. All of us at Hänssler Classic are proud to present what is the FIRST of a projected series of recordings of this great conductor.

Carl Schuricht Conducts¿, Music, Richard Wagner, Carl Schuricht, SWR Radio-sinfonieorchester Stuttgart, Classical, German/Austrian Romantic Opera, Opera, Orchestral, Orchestral & Symphonic, Romantic Orchestral Music

Average customer rating:

So much better? Better than what?

Do not by even if its free

Welcome Back Carl

It's a shame His first album was the best r&b baby maker ever

GET IT!!!!

So Much Better
Carl Thomas
Manufacturer: Bungalo Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | R&B | Styles | Music
General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music
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Special Occasion

ASIN: B000Q364BK
Release Date: 2007-06-05

Tracks:

If I Could (Intro)
Another You
2 Pieces
Thought You Should Know
Somthin' Bout You
If That Ain't Love
Late Night Rendezvous
Get You Back (Interlude)
So Much Better
Oh No You Can't Be Serious
Can't Get Over
How Can We
If You Ever
Say I Do
I Miss You (Interlude)
Home
Late Night Rendezvous
Oh No You Cant Be Serious

Amazon.com

As easy as Carl Thomas' So Much Better is to love--the lyrics poke at the heart, and the singing swerves from soft to determined in a way that satisfies consistently--its admirers will fall into a couple of camps. Under one tent you'll find mainstream R&B fanatics, the kind who never heard a skillful handclap and ooh-baby combo they weren't willing to vibe along with, and hanging out under the other will be old-schoolers who never stopped mourning Donny Hathaway. Thomas's knack for delivering both groups the soul-stirring, love-centric songs that thrill them is no small thing--his ability to dig beneath a song's shiny surface and pull out pure emotion would do his iconic predecessors proud. Plus, he makes it all seem easy: midtempo tracks like the reggae-fied "On No (You Can't Be Serious)," on which his voice takes on tinges of John Legend, send out bursts of genuine joy, while straight-up love laments like "2 Pieces" land on the ears with a believability so real it almost burns. --Tammy La Gorce

Customer Reviews:

So much better? Better than what?.......2007-07-09

It starts off really well. The intro "If I Could (Interlude)" promises so much and I so desperately wish he could've stretched it out into a full song. But he didn't. "Another You (Steppers Mix)" is okay but nothing new. If I wanted this kind of stuff I'd buy Ne-Yo's new CD, I found myself thinking. "2 Pieces" is also instantly forgettable, as far as I'm concerned. "Thought You Should Know" featuring Lalah Hathaway is interesting but only in the sense that Hathaway only seems to be doing backing vocals (alongside Troy Taylor, Claude Kelly & Gordon Chambers). In fact, I wouldn't have known she was on the song at all if it wasn't mentioned on the CD cover and I've been a fan of hers since day one. It gives a new and inventive meaning to the word 'featuring', if you ask me. Here's what I'm trying to say: Hathway has a distinctive voice; one of those that is instantly recognisable and consummately memorable. Check out the song "Earth" on Meshell Ndegeocello's brilliant Cookie: The Anthropological Mixtape for a real example of what the woman can do as a backing vocalist. It doesn't even say 'featuring Lalah Hathaway' on the title but you know she's on the song as soon as you hear it.

Things are better with "Somethin Bout You" featuring Brandy but only slightly. She's also someone who's vocals I usually recognise immediately and I can hear her clearly here but whatever the woman does on the song, she does not duet with Thomas on lead.

"If That Ain't Love" is another yawn inducer and by this time it's starting to dawn on me that I've probably made a mistake buying this CD. Things finally get cooking with "Late Night Rendezvous" and this is more like the kind of thing I was hoping for on this album, at least musically. Lyrically, well, that's another issue. He sings on the chorus for instance: "Mama, I'm leaving the club/ I was wondering if you were up/ For a late night rendezvous..." I mean, please.

"Get You Back (Interlude)" is what it is and the title track is okay, I guess but again, nothing special. That being said, it is one of the tracks on here that could grow on me in time. "Oh No (You Can't Be Serious)" is another interesting one. Reggae influenced. Good vocals by Thomas and for the first time, I actually believe that he feels what he's singing. It reminds me of the raw emotion he displayed on "I Wish" back in the day. I also give him credit for venturing outside his comfort zone. I also like "Can't Get Over" featuring Dave Hollister. Great lead and background vocal performances and this is the only really soulful song on this CD.

The rest of the CD (apart from maybe "If You Ever", which is a pretty decent ballad and "I Miss You (Interlude)", which again, would've been so great as a full blown song) is just a waste of time, including the alternative versions of earlier mentioned songs, one featuring E40 and another that features Baby Cham. Neither is an improvement on the original, in my view. The sentiment behind "Home" is sweet but the delivery just falls flat.

So there it is. "If I Could (Interlude)" is a definite yes, "Late Night Rendezvous" is another yes but only musically. The lyrics left a lot to be desired. And then there's "So Much Better", which is a maybe, "I Can't Get Over You", which is another definite yes and "If You Ever", another maybe and finally, "I Miss You (Interlude)", another definite yes.

Overall, while there are some good moments, it's just not particularly rewarding. I very rarely post negative reviews but I was expecting so much from this CD and got so little, I just couldn't go without registering my disappointment. 14 out of the 18 tracks here (including the interludes) are written by and produced by Mike City and I feel that's probably been part of the problem. I was ready to blame the executive producer(s) but Thomas himself executive produced the project, alongside Mike City and Jheryl Busby, so ultimately I have no one to blame but the artiste himself. He calls this album "So Much Better" and my question is, so much better than what? 2000's Emotional was a phenomenal album but I was just too busy to check out his 2004 follow up. If it's true that this album is better than that one (as a number of reviewers are suggesting) then I'm now doubly glad I missed it. It must've been jaw-droppingly awful.

I've always loved Thomas's voice and have always put him up there as one of my main r&b singers of choice. I still feel he's an awesome talent. It's just that I also believe he can do much better than this. So much better, in fact.

Do not by even if its free.......2007-07-05

I am a huge carl Thomas fan but yet when i found that he had a new album and it wasnt advertised i thought it to be weird. Either way i bought the album because Carl always comes out wit a good album but this was just horrible.... All the songs sounded as if he was talking and the beats he used are not good at all. It should have been known that he is no longer with bad boy records. The label he is with now is just no good and made his album very bad....I wish that i would have not bought it even if it was 10 dollars.

Welcome Back Carl.......2007-07-05

As a true Carl Thomas fan, I must say that this a great CD. It does not top Emotional, but a gret work indeed. I appauld Carl for sticking to his guns and not making music to fit in today's model. His music is so smooth and just makes you feel like he has put his heart in things. Great job. Can't wait for the next CD.

My favorite cuts: Home, Say I do, So Much Better and Can't Get Over. Those are my favorites, but you will enjoy the whole album.

It's a shame His first album was the best r&b baby maker ever.......2007-07-04

This album will definatly derliver what you are looking for. carl's soulful sound is hypmotizing. If you are looking for somthing better than emotional(thomas's 1st album) you will be disaponted. buy the album a take it for face value.

GET IT!!!!.......2007-07-02

From front to back this album is great. If you're a fan of real R&B then this album is for you. So Much Better is well worth wait. I've listened to this cd every day since it was released and I still cant get enough. Carl definitely doesnt disappoint on this one. My favorite tracks are "If That Aint Love", "Home", "Say I Do", "So Much Better", "I Miss You",...I like the whole damn album and Im sure you will too.

Average customer rating:

classic music CD
Good for beginners
Great mix
Good for first-timer
25 Classical Favorites cd

25 Classical Favorites

Manufacturer: Vox (Classical)
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Ballets | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Polkas | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Waltzes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

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25 Romantic Classics
25 Mozart Favorites
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ASIN: B0000058HT
Release Date: 1996-01-23

Tracks:

Eine Klein Nachtmusik: (I. Allegro)
Nutcracker Suite: (Russian Dance)
The Four Seasons, Op. 8: (Spring: I. Allegro)
Hungarian Dance No. 5 In G Minor
Symphony in D, K. 161 - 163: (III. Presto)
Waltz In D-Flat Major, Op. 64, No. 1
Tritsch-Tratsch Polka, Op. 214
Brandenburg Concerto No. 3 In G, S. 1048: (III. Allegro)
Swan Lake: (Dance Of The Swans)
Carmen Suite No. 2: (Habanera)
Messiah: (Overture)
Wind Serenade 'The Marriage Of Figaro': Overture
Violin Concerto No. 1 In G Minor, Op. 12: (III. Allegro)
Water Music: (Overture)
Sleeping Beauty Ballet Suite, Op. 66: (Panorama)
Symphony No. 26 In E-flat Major, K. 184: (III. Allegro)
Waltz No. 10 In B Minor, Op. 69 No. 2
Violin Concerto No. 1 In A Minor, S. 1041: (III. Allegro)
Water Music: (Lentement)
Brandenburg Concerto No. 4 In G Major, S. 1049: (II. Andante)
Habanera
Horn Concerto No. 3 In E-Flat Major, K. 447: (II. Romanza)
Rhapsody On A Theme By Paganini, Op. 43: (Variation No. 18)
Thunder And Lightning Polka, Op. 324
Stars And Stripes Forever

Customer Reviews:

classic music CD.......2007-06-27

The CD was well represented by the clips on the Amazon website and came in time for our event. We did have a problem with the charge but that was taken care of promptly. Great service.

Good for beginners.......2007-02-15

It is an excellent collection of classical music. I would recommend this CD if you have a friend who don't like classical music, since it has the most beautiful overtures and portions of famous artists. If you are a Classic Music Savvy you probably will not be impressed by it, unless you want to play the CD as background music in a friends gathering.

Great mix.......2007-02-14

All the best composers! Over an hour of music. A samble of the greatest pieces.

Good for first-timer.......2007-01-22

This is the first time I have ever bought a classical music CD and I was very pleased with this one. It has a good variety of selections. I would buy it again.

25 Classical Favorites cd.......2007-01-06

This CD has so many of my favorite, lively classical music -- love it!!

Average customer rating:

Beautiful!
Voice of the Violin
Disappointed
Voices of the Violin
Angelic music

Voice of the Violin

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

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ASIN: B000H7JD1I
Release Date: 2006-09-05

Tracks:

Vocalise, Op. 34, No. 14
Ave Maria
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Aprun r, Op. 7, No. 1
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None but the Lonely Heart, Op. 6/6
Una furtiva lagrima from L'Elisir d'Amore
In trutina from Carmina Burana
May Breezes from Songs without Words, Op. 62, No. 1
Beau soir
Estrellita
Nana (Bercuese) from Siete conciones populares Espanolas
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Morgen! Op. 27, No. 4

Amazon.com

Constantly exhorted to "sing," string players naturally try to emulate that most beautiful musical instrument, the human voice; no wonder they literally want to get their fingers on the treasures of the vocal repertoire. Joshua Bell has appropriated some of its best-loved songs and operatic arias, from Mozart through the romantics to Orff. Slow, sustained, lovely and yes, singing, these beguiling melodies and wide emotional range are eminently well suited to the violin. Credit for most of the arrangements is given to J.A.C. Redford, a well-known film and television composer, and indeed the throbbing strings and jarring modulations typical of sound-tracks invade his orchestrations, in startling contrast to the composers' own. In Debussy's "Beau soir," pianist Frederic Chiu partners Bell so beautifully that one wishes he had supplanted the orchestra in all the songs with piano accompaniment. The violin transcriptions of the vocal line closely follow the originals, except for Redford's compulsive habit of adding octaves in the repeats and jumping from the lowest to the highest register. Of course, Bell is very good at all this, and it's the playing that's really the thing. His tone is ravishingly beautiful, warm on the G-string, radiant up high, and always deeply expressive. His love and innate feeling for the music---its inward simplicity, romantic yearning and passionate ardor---speak straight to the heart. In the only authentic violin part, the obbligato of Richard Strauss' "Morgen!" he is joined by the golden-voiced soprano Anna Netrebko; at first overly intense, she relaxes into a blissful, magical ending. --Edith Eisler

Customer Reviews:

Beautiful!.......2007-06-14

I think the reason I love this cd is because the music was not primarily written for the violin. Joshua Bell makes the violin "sing" the pieces. I especially liked Tchaikovsky's "None but the Lonely Heart." I've loved it since we sang it many years ago in our High School chorus and it is not on any of my classical cds.

Good choice.

Voice of the Violin.......2007-06-13

I was disappointed in Bell's popular music style. I love him playing Mozart with his verve and energy - as Mozart would have wanted his music played. This seemed slow and draggy.

Disappointed.......2007-05-17

I had heard one of the tracks on the radio, so I bought the CD. It was too high-ended, a little screechy.

Voices of the Violin.......2007-05-17

Voices is no only a great listen because of Joshua Bell, but it is relaxing and calming - for me that is a great way to let stress melt away.

Every song is well done. Of course Joshua Bell is a favorite.

Angelic music.......2007-05-14

I heard about this artist on NPR, and am enchanted by the magnificent voice he gives to the violin. Well worth the purchase.

Average customer rating:

Blue Suede Shoes
George, Eric and Ringo go to school.
Needs To Be On DVD!
Rockabilly lives !!!!
Blue Suede Shoes: A Rockabilly Session

Blue Suede Shoes: A Rockabilly Session
Carl Perkins , Eric Clapton , and George Harrison
Manufacturer: Snapper Classics UK
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

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Rockabilly | Oldies & Retro | Rock | Styles | Music

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ASIN: B000EYK2GE
Release Date: 2006-06-06

Tracks:

Boppin' The Blues - Carl Perkins
Put Your Cat Clothes On - Carl Perkins
Honey Don't - Ringo Starr
Matchbox - Eric Clapton
Mean Woman Blues - Eric Clapton
Turn Around - Carl Perkins
Going To Jackson - Carl Perkins
What Kind Of Girl - Rosanne Cash
Everybody's Trying To Be My Baby - George Harrison
Your True Love - George Harrison
The World Is Waiting For The Sunrise - Carl Perkins
Medley: That's Alright Mama/Blue Moon Of Kentucky/Night Train To Memphis - Eric Clapton
Glad All Over - George Harrison
Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On - Eric Clapton
Gone Gone Gone - Carl Perkins
Blue Suede Shoes - Carl Perkins
Blue Suede Shoes (Encore) - George Harrison
Gone Gone Gone (Encore) - Carl Perkins

Customer Reviews:

Blue Suede Shoes.......2007-07-03

Blue Suede Shoes: A Rockabilly Session showing Carl Perkins as the king of his game and the guests who appear on this session. Carl was a professional who could and did deliver the goods. He pulls an outstanding performance out of Ringo & George showing a lot of 1950's influence. The quality of this session is unbelieveable and continuity makes the whole program flow smoothly and time just flies. Highly recommend this CD.

George, Eric and Ringo go to school........2007-04-12

Great soundtrack to the 80's era cable special. Carl shows the boys a few tricks in a fantastic jam session. Don't pass this up.

Needs To Be On DVD!.......2007-04-03

I have this on VHS and now on CD, but it needs to be on DVD. Classic show, classic line-up, and the first time 2 Beatles performing together (and the last until Concert For George) since Bangladesh. When Carl breaks up at the end telling everyone how much he appreciated all of his friends it will bring a lump to the throat of any fan of his or of "roots" rock & roll. Seldom does one get to play with people of that calibre and the love they obviously have for the songs is eclipsed by the love they had for Carl himself, a class act all his life.

Rockabilly lives !!!!.......2007-03-17

Great rockabilly with one of the forgotten founders. If you love the Elvis Sun Sessions, this is right up your alley. Perkins impresses as a guitarist also, but it is Claptons solo's that make you go ooHH !!!!

Blue Suede Shoes: A Rockabilly Session.......2007-03-10

Having seen this session on tv, it's wonderful to relive the moment through cd. Even if you're not a rabid George Harrison fan, as I am, I think you'll still find it a great listening experience with Eric Clapton and Ringo Starr and the old guy himself, Carl Perkins, who gave us so many memorable tunes. They're not dead yet as long as we have their music to listen to.

Pride and Prejudice: The Original Soundtrack from the A&E Special Presentation

Average customer rating:

Excellent music but missing a few treasures
ambiance
The perfect music for Jane Austen's TV adaptation
Background Music
Pride and Prejudice Sound track

Pride and Prejudice: The Original Soundtrack from the A&E Special Presentation
Carl Davis , Melvyn Tan , Nicholas Bucknall , Jonathan Barritt , Timothy Brown , Levine Andrade , Nicolas Busch , Joseph Frohlich , Martin Gatt , Rusen Gunes , Michael Harris , Keith Harvey , David Juritz , Peter Lale , and Pauline Lowbury
Manufacturer: Angel Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

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ASIN: B000002SJ5
Release Date: 1996-05-21

Tracks:

Pride And Prejudice: Pride and Prejudice (Opening title music)
Pride And Prejudice: Dance Montage
Pride And Prejudice: Elizabeth Observed
Pride And Prejudice: Piano Summary (Episode one)
Pride And Prejudice: Canon Collins
Pride And Prejudice: Piano Summary (Episode two)
Pride And Prejudice: The Gardiners
Pride And Prejudice: Winter Into Spring
Pride And Prejudice: Parting
Pride And Prejudice: Rosings
Pride And Prejudice: Piano Summary (Episode three)
Pride And Prejudice: Telling The Truth
Pride And Prejudice: Farewell to the Regiment
Pride And Prejudice: Pemberley
Pride And Prejudice: Darcy Returns
Pride And Prejudice: Piano Summary (Episode four)
Pride And Prejudice: Thinking about Lizzy
Pride And Prejudice: Lydia's Elopement
Pride And Prejudice: Piano Summary (Episode five)
Pride And Prejudice: Lydia's Wedding
Pride And Prejudice: Return of Bingley
Pride And Prejudice: Darcy's Second Proposal
Pride And Prejudice: Double Wedding
Pride And Prejudice: Finale

Customer Reviews:

Excellent music but missing a few treasures.......2007-07-02

Although the score for Pride and Prejudice was fantastic, there were even more songs that I wish had been included on this disc"

My favorite part was Lizzy playing the piano at Pemberly: Voi Che Sapete from the Marriage of Figaro. I also loved the Netherfield Ball dances with Mr. collins and Mr. Darcy: The Shrewsbury Lasses and Mr. Beveridge's Maggot. (these are very difficult to find anwhere and I especially loved the arrangement in the movie. I would have loved to have a recording of these). Grimstock played by Mary at the Phillips Christmas Party is also a favorite. Also, Andante Favore by Beethoven played by Georgiana at Pemberly. Fortunatly, these are easily found on popular online music sites.

ambiance.......2007-06-06

c'est un pur plaisir de revivre cette série que j'adore en écoutant la bande son. une ambiance "austenante" !

The perfect music for Jane Austen's TV adaptation.......2007-05-13

I was very happy to receive this CD which is not sold in France. When I listen to the music, I can imagine the exact moment it corresponds in the film. I like very much the opening title music

Carl Davis's Music is excellent and permit to translate the sense of a small town at this period and the fortepiano produces a unique and fascinating sound, quite different from that oh the modern instrument.

This CD is a good choice for the fans of the series.

Background Music.......2007-03-14

The soundtrack is fabulous. I now have it as the only disc in my car, and I listen to it on both short daily trips and long "coastal" trips.

Pride and Prejudice Sound track.......2007-03-13

This sound track is lovely-- great to listen to, well produced and is very soothing.The Piano Summaries played by Melvyn Tan on the fortepiano capture the time the series was set in. Loved IT!!!!!

Average customer rating:

It takes more time to appreciate this one
Not my cup of tea
So far above the fray it's almost unfair
New To The Indie World And Love This Recording
Stings Like a Bee

Twin Cinema
The New Pornographers
Manufacturer: Matador Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Use It
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Amazon.com

Imagine a loose consortium of musicians who combine the lilting melodies of the Zombies with the driving hooks of the Kinks. Sure, it's what all the kids are doing these days, but Vancouver's New Pornographers are one of the few--along with the Shins--to get the balance right. Their third full-length offers more of the same smart power-pop that made Mass Romantic and Electric Version instant classics, plus some surprising new moves. As singer/songwriter Carl Newman (The Slow Wonder) has noted, "You can't play ebow without sounding like Eno," and indeed, Brian Eno's sublime early recordings are evoked on this more introspective offering. There are also strong new vocalists joining Neko Case: Nora O'Connor (the Blacks) and Newman's piano-playing niece, Kathryn Calder. If there was a flaw with previous efforts, it was that the contributions of Dan Bejar (Destroyer), fine as they were, sounded somewhat out of place. Just as they're better integrated this time around, Twin Cinema offers every member of this insanely talented ensemble the chance to shine. --Kathleen C. Fennessy

Album Description

The third album from Vancouver's pop maestros continues to feature Neko Case and Dan Bejar (Destroyer), as well as new vocalists Kathryn Calder and Nora O'Connor. These songs veer more toward the rocking and the personal than the sugar of earlier works. Chief singer/songwriter A.C. Newman has absorbed not just the mechanics of classic songwriting, but the heart, while indulging his admiration of demented current bands like Fiery Furnaces and Frog Eyes. Expect to hear influences from The Moody Blues, Tubeway Army, Wings, Eno, The Stranglers, 10cc, and other greats, all filtered through Newman's warped worldview.

Customer Reviews:

It takes more time to appreciate this one.......2007-06-12

When I first got my hands on this hotly anticipated 3rd release from the NP's it didn't "hit" me like the first two. After a year of low rotation in my collection I'm now listening to it over headphones and it's just now striking me what a great disc this is. It's as good as their other discs and in a lot of ways even better. The Bleeding Heart Show is such a great tune. Don't give up on this one right away. Put it away for a month or two if you don't get it right away and then pull it back out on a rainy day and give it another try - you'll get it.

Not my cup of tea.......2007-05-29

I guess it all depends on the type of music you like. I was drawn to The New Pornographers through Neko Case, and sad to say was dissapointed by the band. Not that they aren't a supremely talented band, but the droning voice of A.C. Newman wears thin on me, as is the case with Colin Meloy of The Decembrists. In fact, the two bands sound a lot alike, but Meloy brings a deeper literary flavor to his music that makes the songs much more enjoyable to listen to, at least for me. I much prefer Neko Case in her own element, singing her reverb-heavy folk ballads with a voice hauntingly familiar to Patsy Cline.

So far above the fray it's almost unfair.......2007-05-16

If CDs ever become extinct and scientists need to extract their DNA thousands of years from now to recreate them (a la Jurassic Park), "Twin Cinema," the perfect pop-rock concoction, had better be the disc they use. My question is, who says heavy electric guitars are mandatory to make the perfect rock record? The New Pornographers prove that several great singers, some piano, unique songwriting and a penchant for the perfect pop melodies from song to song will carry a band just fine. Of course, the lush, bountiful quality to these songs qualifies them as more than mere pop tunes. Calling these songs pop is doing them a disservice.

The opposite of stodgy would be upbeat, and that's what "Twin Cinema" is, even on the slower tunes, which have a tendancy to transform to livelier jingles by the end. The title track begins the CD like a blast of fresh-air power pop, a feature many of these songs share. Yet the New Pornographers seemed to create this album with the knowledge that people like to download songs that suit their individual tastes these days. Thus, there is a diverse feel to the record, almost as if more than one band was involved in making it. The album is fluent throughout, yet diverse and creative enough to keep you on your toes. "Twin Cinema" never feels dull, because the tunes take unique turns every step of the way. The snappy songs are enhanced by crisp production, quirky lyrics and superb drumming, which might get a little lost amid all the ultra-catchy sounds.

Neko Case has the best female vocals in rock. Such songs as "The Bones of an Idol" and "These are the Fables" are nothing less than elegantly beautiful. "Broken Breads" sounds like Syd Barrett (see The Madcap Laughs) performing a tune in 2005. The vibrating guitars on "Three of Four" is pure swank, reminiscent of a few songs on R.E.M.'s Monster from 1994. The chorus on "Star Bodies" has the lushest-ever vocals by Case (double-tracked), for a sound that is irresistable. Finally, "Stacked Crooked," the last song, has the defiant sound of redemption, looking forward with a sense of hope and positivity, despite the screw-ups of the past: "Stacked crooked all along but now I'm on my way."

Who knows where the New Pornographers will take it from here, but it's hard to imagine they will ever top the brilliance of this album.

New To The Indie World And Love This Recording.......2007-03-29

I started surfing around on Amazon about 4 months ago and discovered this recording. To preface, I have a very diverse music background and like everything from Miles Davis to Led Zeppelin to Neil Young to the Minutemen to the Grateful Dead to the Sex Pistols, etc.

This recording is so unique that I've listened to at least parts of it almost daily since I bought it 2 months ago. Very diverse range of sound, great lyrics, and very well produced. I highly, highly recommend it.

Stings Like a Bee.......2007-03-23

If this album were a boxer, it'd come out swingin'--and boy can it throw some sweet hooks! But don't be fooled, it has stamina too. As the rounds go on, it doesn't wear down.

In other words, the songs on this album are extremely catchy. The first 4-5 tracks will knock your socks off the first time you hear this one. The others may sound comparitively dull at first, but if you give them a chance, you'll end up loving every song on the disc.

Average customer rating:

Splendid !
It is the best... but it isn't
This is what it was supposed to sound like
Music to my ears...
Not the Best Version by a Longshot

Carl Orff: Carmina Burana

Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

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Carl Orff: Carmina Burana

ASIN: B000001GQP
Release Date: 1996-05-14

Tracks:

Fortune, Empress Of The World: O Fortune
Fortune, Empress Of The World: I Bemoan The Wounds Of Fortune
I Spring: The Merry Face Of Spring
I Spring: The Sun Warms Everything
I Spring: Behold, The Pleasant Spring
On The Green: Dance
On The Green: The Noble Woods Are Burgeoning
On The Green: Shopkeeper, Give Me Colour
On The Green: Those Who Go Round And Round
On The Green: If All The World Were Mine
II In The Tavern: Burning Inside
II In The Tavern: Once I Lived On Lakes
II In The Tavern: I Am The Abbot
II In The Tavern: When We Are In The Tavern
III The Court Of Love: Cupid Flies Everywhere
III The Court Of Love: Day, Night And Everything
III The Court Of Love: A Girl Stood
III The Court Of Love: In My Heart
III The Court Of Love: If A Boy With A Girl
III The Court Of Love: Come, Come, O Come
III The Court Of Love: In The Balance
III The Court Of Love: This Is The Joyful Time
III The Court Of Love: Sweetest One
Blanchefleur And Helen: Hail, Most Beautiful One
Fortune, Empress Of The World: O Fortune

Amazon.com

Yes, here it is folks--that irritatingly catchy chorus you first heard in the film Excalibur, or as the background music to the HBO Boxing Specials, and in zillions of other places. What it's not is the music from The Omen, which it clearly inspired. All pieces of music that feature choruses chanting in Latin are not the same (in fact, Stravinsky's Symphony of Psalms is much closer to The Omen than this). Orff actually wrote a lot more music, but here's a case where his reputation as a "one work" composer really is justified, for nothing else comes close in musical or popular appeal. This performance was authorized by the composer himself, and that's recommendation enough. --David Hurwitz

Customer Reviews:

Splendid !.......2007-06-27

It's definitively the best adaptation of Carl Orff's masterpiece with astonishing vocal parts.Surely a "must have" CD for everyone who loves classical music at his best.

It is the best... but it isn't.......2007-06-08

A confusing review title, I'll grant that. And if it is the best, the why isn't it, and why only 3 stars?
For me, Eugen Jochum's rendition of Carmina Burana is easily the best one. Approved by Orff himself that was invited to assist the premiere. Unlike several other performances, this Carmina Burana was raw, even violent at times. All the energy that Orff had put into it, all the joy and jokes of the text where lived by the performers. There was no worry on softening the sound in order to look more "polite" or classical. It was raw, it was energic, it was Orff's intention live on stage. That's why it is said Orff was so pleased with it.
However, some people criticized it. Said it was too violent, too unprofessional, too raw after all. That it was not a proper classical music interpretation. It lacked detail, politeness and "education". After all, it was just not "proper" to play classical music "like that". It is a stigma this performance has suffered for years, regardlessly of being the composer's approved one.
When I got this new DG release something sounded different. The sound was perhaps cleaner, but surely something was wrong. And it was easy to find out what. The remastering altered the original, by softening it. It was now slightly slower, more polite, there is not so much violence in the voices sometimes, nor in some of the instruments. DG tried to please everybody with this re-release, including the critics of the original 1988 release, the one faithful to the original performance.
So, that explains the title, it is the best performance, but not the best edition, as it has been remastered, and, in my humble opinion, adulterated.
For me, the best one overall: best performance and best edition is still the 1988 release of this same recording also by DG and available here at amazon called Orff: Carmina Burana.

This is what it was supposed to sound like.......2006-10-16

Maybe just like most other people, I heard bits of the first piece of "Carmina Burana" - I think it was as part of a chocolate commercial (back in Germany). When I saw that that was actually the very first piece, I wondered what could possibly come after that, and I did a bit of research into what the music was all about. The result of that search made it all the more interesting: It's medival poems and songs, partly in Latin, partly in old German, set to the music of Carl Orff.

I went through a bunch of other recordings of "Carmina Burana" until I finally found this one. This one is the best. I mean you can complain about aspects of it, but with the composer working with the conductor it's a bit hard to say anything meaninful. If you don't like the way this sounds then maybe you just don't like the full piece. For example, I've seen people praise other recordings because they sounded "less teutonic". That's quite a ridiculous comment - after all, that's what it's supposed to sound like. And it's Latin (or old German) and that's just what Latin sounds like.

So I can only recommend this recording, it's quite impressive, and it's quite heavy in the percussion - make sure to listen to it loud at least once.

Music to my ears..........2006-06-25

Great CD, great price, fast delivery -- what more is there?

Not the Best Version by a Longshot.......2006-05-13

I have six different recordings of this masterpiece, and this particular recording is probably my least favourite of them all. It's jarring to hear sprightly passages played too slowly, making them seem to plod along -- and it's even worse to hear sensuous and languid portions like "Cour D'Amours" and "Uf Dem Anger" played too quickly, as if they were all in a hurry to get home. It ruins the effect completely.

And Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau? I actually winced, hearing him in his solo passages, where he's supposed to sound impassioned and suffering, to hear him warbling away like he thought he was singing lieder. Sorry, no. If you want to hear how it all SHOULD sound, buy the CD with Charles Dutoit conducting the Orchestre Symphonique de Montreal, which is the finest version I've ever heard -- the best use of tempo, the best diction, and the best soloists by far.

And PLEASE, let's get something straight: "Carmina" does NOT rhyme with "Christina", it rhymes with "stamina". "Carmen" is a second-declension neuter noun in Latin, as is "stamen", and in the nominative plural, the stress falls on the first syllable. It's CAR-min-a, not car-MEE-na. It makes my hair stand on end to hear someone pronounce it like they think the "-ina" is an Italian diminutive ending, like in "manina". It is NOT.

[ADDED LATER: How pathetic that so many people have thought my review was "not helpful". Did they expect lies and smiley faces? They probably went right ahead and wasted their money anyway. I tried to warn them. Chances are, though, they have no idea what the lyrics mean, so it won't matter to them that Dietrich F.-D. sings them like he doesn't know what they mean either.

I even hope they will also ignore my correction of the frequent mispronunciation of the title, because it can be quite hilarious to hear pseudo-sophisticates mangling pronunciations and thus announcing to the world that they really don't have a clue.]

Classical Music for People Who Hate Classical Music

Average customer rating:

CD set is misnamed
Do not Buy
Classical Music for People Who Hate Classical Music
Seek better versions
It Is What It Is

Classical Music for People Who Hate Classical Music

Manufacturer: Compendia
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Best of the Millennium: Top 40 Classical Hits
25 Classical Favorites
25 Romantic Classics
The Most Relaxing Classical Album in the World...Ever!
The Most Relaxing Classical Music in the Universe

ASIN: B000003QWH
Release Date: 1994-06-09

Tracks:

Canon In D
'Brandenburg' Concerto No. 3: Allegro
The Four Seasons - The Winter: Largo And Allegro
Fanfare ('Masterpiece Theatre' Theme)
Camerata Romana: Air For The 'G' String
'Eine kleine Nachtmusik': Allegro
Piano Concerto No. 21 ('Elvira Madigan' Theme): Andante
Introduction To Symphony No. 5
'William Tell' Overture: Finale
'Aida': Triumphal March
On The Beautiful, Blue Danube Waltz
'The Nutcracker': Waltz Of The Flowers
'1812' Overture: Finale

Tracks:

Sabre Dance
'Light Cavalry' Overture: Finale
Carmen: The Toreadors
' Midsummer Night's Dream': Wedding March
Radetzky March
Symphony No. 9, 'Choral': Finale
'Prince Igor': Polovstian Dance No. 17
Jesu, Joy Of Man's Desiring
Peer Gynt: Solveig's Song
Sleepers, Wake
Water Music: Hornpipe
Symphony No. 9, 'From The New World': Largo
Emperor Waltz
'Emperor' Quartet: St. Anthony's Chorale
'The Tales Of Hoffman': Barcarolle
L'Arlesienne: Farandole
'The Nutcracker': Dance Of The Mirlitons
'The Nutcracker': Dance Of The Sugar-Plum Fairy
'Rhapsody In Blue': Highlight
'Orpheus In The Underworld': Can-Can

Tracks:

Introduction To 'Also sprach Zarathustra'
Symphony No. 4, 'Italian': Saltarello: Presto
Piano Concerto No. 20: Romance
'The Valkyrie': Ride Of The Valkyries
'The Four Seasons' - The Spring: Allegro
Toccata and Fugue
Trumpet Voluntary
'Royal Fireworks Music': la rejouissance: Allegro
'Moonlight' Sonata: Adagio Sostenuto
London Festival Orchestra: Overture To 'The Barber Of Seville'
Piano Concerto No. 2: Adagio Sostenuto

Tracks:

Carmina Burana: Introduction To 'Carmina Burana'
Peer Gynt: Dawn From 'Peer Gynt'
Lohengrin: Prelude To 'Lohengrin'
'Lieutenant Kije': Troika From 'Lieutenant Kije'
Adiago For Strings
'Carmen': Habanera From 'Carmen'
'Double' Concerto: Allegro From 'Double' Concerto
The Marriage Of Figaro: Overture To 'The Marriage Of Figaro'
(Rondo) Alla Turca
Xerxes: Largo From 'Xerxes'
Symphony No. 5: Allegro vivace From Symphony No. 5
'Swan Lake': Scene: Enchanted Lake From 'Swan Lake'
Clair De Lune
Bolero

Customer Reviews:

CD set is misnamed.......2007-06-08

They should have titled this "classical music for people who love classical music" because most of the selections are typical classical music. The title suggests it would be lively selections of "light classical" music that is more upbeat, i.e. Sabre Dance, etc. I really don't hate classical music at all and have many classical CDs in my collection but I really wanted to hear more exciting selections. I won't be purchasing any more of this set but if you like traditional classical music these are good one.

Do not Buy.......2007-02-21

I do know it says classical music for people who hate it, but serioulsly you would have better luck never listening to classical music again. The recordings are awfull and do not do justice to any of the composers. Buy something else.

Classical Music for People Who Hate Classical Music.......2007-01-30

We love this set of CD's. I just got a new copy because my kids keeping taking our first copy with them so that they can listen at work or in their bedrooms but then I can never find them.

Seek better versions.......2006-12-09

If you are fairly new to classical purchases then compilation CD's can be useful for deciding what to buy next. Sometimes you only need a small taste of a piece to inspire you to buy a release with the whole performance on. The problem with this compilation however is that most of the versions are poor in performance or recording quality (or both) when compared to the best versions and the fact that the conductors aren't even credited on the track listing made me suspect that this would be the case. One of my favorite classical pieces is Tchaikovsky's 1812 festival overture but if the first CD version I had heard had been the finale excerpt that is on this compilation I may not have gone on to buy the whole thing. Luckily I heard Adrian Leaper's version first and Adrian's version is rather good.
My classical CD buying experience is limited to only a couple of dozen discs but I have found that the Naxos and Deutshe Grammophon releases are fairly safe. Avoid any release which does not name the conductors on the track listing or sleeve notes.

It Is What It Is.......2006-10-27

It's fitting that this page is fraught with the same kind of silly snobbery that turns people off from classical music (and necessitates collections like this) in the first place.

Any criticism of this compilation, which focuses on the quality of the performances or the fact that many tracks are excerpts, misses the point. This is not a collection for people who consider such things, nor does it purport to be. The idea is to package as many ultra-famous classical melodies as possible in one affordable collection and market it to people who have never purchased a classical recording. As such, top-tier performances are likely too expensive to be sold so cheaply and are unnecessary anyway. Those of us who already know and love a piece or two can forgive the compilers the inclusion of sub-par recordings, when we are exposed to so many other beautiful pieces for the first time.

It probably comes as a shock for some to hear that most people are not familiar with these classics. We may hear snippets on TV or movies, but are left with no idea as to the composer or historical context. With that in mind, it is extremely intimidating to begin buying classical. I suppose those among us, who so thoroughly dismissed the very notion of a boxed set like this, would have us begin by buying full albums by reputable interpreters. Surprisingly enough though, the majority of people would consider that a tad cost-prohibitive.

To conclude, this is a STARTER collection. It will either affirm a listener's feelings about classical music or lead to an interest in purchasing better recordings. Ideally, I suppose the interpretations would be better, but, for reasons mentioned above, that just isn't in the cards for a collection of this nature. If you're familiar with 50 different recordings of "The Ring" series, or have season tickets to the New York Philharmonic, then this probably isn't for you. For us cretins with limited foreknowledge of classical music though, it serves as a succinct introduction with little to complain about.

Average customer rating:

Wonderful Album
Akinola2
This is a MUST have for your R&B collection...
Carl Thomas Emotional
Classic R & B from Carl Thomas & Bad Boy Records..............

Emotional
Carl Thomas
Manufacturer: Bad Boy
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Faith

ASIN: B00004SPMV
Release Date: 2000-04-18

Tracks:

Intro
Emotional
I Wish
Anything (Interlude)
My Valentine
Giving You All My Love
Cadillac Rap (Interlude)
Woke Up In The Morning
Come To Me
Cold, Cold World
Trouble Won't Last (Interlude)
You Ain't Right
Lady Lay Your Body
Supastar
Summer Rain
Hey Now
Special Lady

Amazon.com

On his debut album, Carl Thomas offers more of the well-sung, romantic R&B that never seems to fall out of favor. Unfortunately, while the Puffy Combs-executive-produced Emotional is perhaps a must-own for diehard fans of the genre, it seems less than inspired when compared with, say, Brian McKnight's state-of-the-art Back at One. All the elements are in place here--a guest shot by Kelly Price on "Giving You All My Love," a Stevie Wonder sample on "Summer Rain"--but for all its intended late-night aphrodisiacal potential, the music sounds flat in the bright light of day. The hilariously mumbled come-on interlude "Cadillac Rap," though, does hint at what Thomas might be capable of if he dared to buck the formula. --Rickey Wright

Customer Reviews:

Wonderful Album.......2007-04-16

This is a great album to have. Carl Thomas is great in show, he really pours his heart into the music. He is so theatrical in his movements and has great annuciation. My favorite song on the album is "Cold, Cold World" you feel the hurt and emotion in the chorus as Carl pleads, "It's a cold, cold, cold world leaving here without in my life." This album is must have for all true music lovers. Carl incorporates an ol'skool, groovy type feel to the music esp. with "Emotional" ,"Valentine" and"Woke Up This Morning". His soulful style is somewhat reminiscent of an Al Green or Curtis Mayfield. Carl Thomas does not receive as much gratification as he is deserved.

Akinola2.......2007-04-03

Carl Thomas has definately got it going on when it comes the the old school, fresh sound of R&B. This CD is a must have if you are a true quality music fan. Most of the songs are slow and this is a CD that will be appreciated by the older, more mature crowd. Most of the songs are original and you can play this one all they way through without skipping tracks. I will be truly happy when this talented singer releases some new material. This is excellent late night, cuddle up with your boo music.

This is a MUST have for your R&B collection..........2007-01-19

This is definitely a timeless cd. It's been years since it's release and I still have it in heavy rotation in my personal collection. This is one of the few cds that you can listen to the whole way through. Carl has a phenominal voice!!! Emotional is a great cd for both the ladies and the fellas who truely love R&B... this has a lot of "slow jams" on it. Some of my personal favorites are 1. All my Love 2. Special Lady 3. Cold, Cold World. I'm sure you'll love this cd just like me!!!

Carl Thomas Emotional.......2006-11-10

The Emonitonal CD by Carl Thomas is one of his best. I hope soon we would get great music from CT again.

Classic R & B from Carl Thomas & Bad Boy Records.....................2006-09-23

Still in my cd rotation 6 years later. This one of those cds that you through in on a lazy rainy day when you're chilling with your girl. Carl delivers with bangers such as Emotional, I Wish, Lady Lay, Summer Rain, and much more.

Average customer rating:

The Same Thing, Everytime!!!
GREAT CD!
good, not great.
Shiny Yet Hollow As Glass
As sharp and shiny as their name implies

Razorlight
Razorlight
Manufacturer: Umvd Labels
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Eyes Open
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ASIN: B000GH2PUU
Release Date: 2006-08-22

Tracks:

In The Morning
Who Needs Love
Hold On
America
Before I Fall To Pieces
I Cant Stop This Feeling Ive Got
Pop Song 2006
Kirbys House
Back To The Start
Los Angeles Waltz

Amazon.com

Razorlight's eponymous sophomore release doesn't so much reinvent the freewheeling sensibilities of their '04 debut Up All Night as hone them into a more willfully focused pop whole, a mindset that immediately evinces itself on the inviting, Boomtown Rats-meets-INXS-flavored opener "In the Morning." The growing confidence of songwriter/vocalist Johnny Borrell is almost palpable as he expands the band's horizons to include the '50s-rooted influences of "Before I Fall to Pieces" and the Dion-esque "Who Needs Love," the Chrissie Hynde-bred tension of "Hold On" and the sonic fervor of early U2 on "Pop Song 2006." Gratifyingly, that tack has also pushed the rest of the band - especially guitarist Bjorn Agren - towards honing their chops in service of a tighter, yet still playful sound. It may be too easy for seasoned ears to deconstruct the influences here, but by the time this taut, economic collection closes on the high note of the melodramatic "Los Angeles Waltz" even the cynics should be won over. --Jerry McCulley

Album Description

International pressing of their 2006 sophomore album, the follow up to 2004's successful Up All Night album. 10 tracks including the cracking single 'In The Morning' plus 'Kirby's House' (as featured on the album Warchild: Help - A Day In The Life). Universal.

Customer Reviews:

The Same Thing, Everytime!!!.......2007-06-20

Yet another dull album from Razorlight. No progression, no development of their sound (whatever that is!). The same old thing again, rehashed to death... Don't buy this! Big Mistake.

Muse's latest offering is by far the better option.

GREAT CD!.......2007-05-13

I love Razorlight and this CD proves the reason for their success - totally pumping stuff! More, more!

good, not great........2007-03-09

Q magazine selected this as the 3rd best album of 2006! 3rd! what's going on there? this is a good album, a catchy selection of songs at the crossroads of power pop and rock and roll, but no way is this a great album! 3rd best of the year! who is doing what to whom over at that publication? i don't mean to rip this thing, like i said: it's a good enough album, just way over-rated in some circles.

Shiny Yet Hollow As Glass.......2006-12-24

Two years ago, when Razorlight's critically acclaimed debut album Up All Night hit music stores across the UK and Europe, the band seemed poised for almost inevitable international success. The album rose to No. 3 on the official UK chart, and the band had the opportunity to play in front of Buckingham Palace, before a TV audience of millions at the Olympic Torch Parade in London, and at the Glastonbury festival. Now nearly six months after their self-titled release, with their relentless self-marketing, they haven't quite stormed across the Atlantic yet.

The album starts off quite nicely with "In the Morning," a rocker that seems cut straight out of 1979, with its crystalline hooks and thundering drums. The sprawling riffs and angsty lyrics of "Los Angeles Waltz," and the hopping bass lines of "Pop Song 2006" will end up ensnaring some listeners. Frontman Johnny Borrell's vocals seem heavily influenced by Bob Dylan -- he often doesn't nail the right key -- but there's enough swagger in his voice to carry the band through in a way that some might like.

The lyrics are frustratingly shallow at times, and at others it just feels like Borrell was just plain lazy--roughly half of the lyrics on "Kirby's House" are repeated from "In the Morning." On "America," Borrell doesn't seem to know exactly what he wants to sing about--nostalgia, insomnia, or the meaninglessness of pop culture:

Yesterday was easy
Happiness came and went
I got the movie script but I don't know what it meant
I light a cigarette because I can't get no sleep
There's nothin' on the TV, nothin' on the radio
That means that much to me

Razorlight never tries to be too original, but they offer a fun album to play "Name That Influence" with as they're easier to spot than that coffee you just spilt on your shirt, whether it's The Talking Heads, Bob Dylan, or The Rolling Stones. There's little here to attract younger fans in the way of offering something even relatively new. However, fans of Jet or The Elms might find this self-titled release of throwback rock at least marginally

As sharp and shiny as their name implies.......2006-11-30

Razorlight pulls off a nifty trick here. Their eponymous CD is heavily and near heavenly saturated by 80's bands. The catchy and confident hooks will remind some of us older skinny-tie geeks of Squeeze, Crowded House and - when the band rocks a little - INXS. But songs like "In The Morning" and "America" are confident pieces of popcraft that sink their hooks in firmly after repeated listening.

Problem is, while it makes for some catchy listening, it is also derivative. "Hold On" sounds so much like a Squeeze song that I was wondering if Difford and Tilbrook had written it. Getting compared to great songwriters is not necessarily a bad thing, but Razorlight The Band doesn't exude much by way of personality here.

The exceptions are "America," which is the best thing on the CD, the nearly folkish "Kirby's House" and the dramatic "Los Angeles Waltz," which closes the album on a very strong note (and namechecks Kings of Leon!). More songs like these would move Razorlight into the realms of great songcraft. But for now, the pleasing popcraft of "Razorlight" follows the likes of Dirty Pretty Things and Muse for strong new British bands.

Music Review:

Music Review

music review

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Destination...Get Down!

Dybbuk [Import]

Flippin' the Script: Rap Meets Poetry [Live]

The Woodstock Generation: Out of Time

La Question

1. Prelude/Vorspiel Act 1 - Parsifal .
2. Prelude/Vorspiel from Act 1 - Tristan und Isolde
3. Morgendammerung und Siegfrieds Rheinfahrt -Gotterdammerung
4. Siegfried's Funeral March - Gotterdammerung
5. "Siegfried-Idyll" for small orchestra
6. Good Friday Spell/Karfreitagszauber (Act 3)- Parsifal
7. Finale - Act 3 - Parsifal