Amazon.com

The cast recording for the Broadway musical of John Waters's 1988 paean to dance, music, big beautiful women, and integration is a sheer delight. It's wonderfully upbeat all the way through, with a classic feel that's in keeping with the story's setting in the early 1960s. The characters come alive in these songs, from Marissa JaretWinokur's (Tracy Turnblad) opening lines in "Good Morning Baltimore"to the stunningly upbeat finale, "You Can't Stop the Beat." The music is byMarc Shaiman,whose recent projects include South Park: Bigger, Longer & Uncut,as well as a number of film soundtracks, and his compositions aresimultaneously solid and exuberant. Shaiman and Scott Wittman's lyrics brim over with the unreserved passions and primary-color emotions that made the film so successful. Regardless of one's familiarity with the story or the stage production, it's hard to avoid the appeal of this recording; even the less cheerful songs are awash in bright colors, without disrespect for their subjects. --Genevieve Williams ... Read more

Reviews (146)

Wonderful show!
What a fabulous show! I saw Hairspray in previews in NYC three days before it officially opened, and I must say that it was sheer joy put to the stage. The music is catchy, smart and wonderful, the acting is superb and hysterical, and the overall production is virtually flawless. The CD captures the heart of the show and the almost frantic energy of the cast. Perfectly cast, the entire ensemble gives it their best. Each song has its own personality, every character comes to life, it is musical comedy at its best. Harvey Fierstien as Edna Turnblad brings a smile to your face the minute you hear him sing, Tracy has a voice that can pierce through anything, and her spunky energy shines, and the rest of the cast sings brilliantly. The audience was electric when I saw the show, everyone was anticipating a ton of fun, and the show came through. I highly recommend this CD cast recording to everyone who loves musical comedies...NYC/Broadway can be proud of all of the high quality shows there right now, including Thoroughly Modern Millie, Urinetown, Producers, and The Full Monty. Thank you to all of the folks bringing these great shows to life!

the crowning-jewel of the current Broadway season
HAIRSPRAY is, in my opinion, the crowning-jewel of the current Broadway season. It's the perfect musical version of the John Waters film.

Marissa Jaret Winokur is the perfect Tracy Turnblad. Her infectious voice colors "Good Morning Baltimore", "Without Love", "The Big Dollhouse" and "Welcome to the 60's" with gusto and old-school showmanship.

Harvey Fierstein is perfection as Edna, and eats up his role with relish. His duet with Dick Latessa (as husband Wilbur), "Timeless to Me", is a real high-point of the score.

Rounding out the cast are Kerry Butler (a former Belle in BEAUTY AND THE BEAST) as Penny Pingleton, Laura Bell Bundy as Amber von Tussle, Linda Hart as Velma von Tussle, Clarke Thorell as Corny Collins, Matthew Morrison as Link, Mary Bond Davis as Motormouth Mabel and Corey Reynolds as Seaweed.

Fit indeed for Fantasia Squeaky Idol Barrino
The squeaky voices in this overrated show are so annoying that one just has to cover his or her ears. While fun when you're WATCHING the show, the "musical" is just bland to listen to on CD. It's worse when you realize the show has no substance either.

So you've got a winner that doesn't have anything good in it. Reminds me very much of no-talent Squeaky Idol Fantasia Barrino.

Overrated!
I like Marissa very much and had fun watching this. Compared with the major productions that graced Broadway last season, however, this pales substance-wise and form-wise. You can't even call the "singing" in this musical real singing. It's all squeaking, like, as some people have pointed out, what newly-crowned WB Supestar & Queen of Ghoul Fantasia Barrino does in all her numbers on American Idol.

Enjoyable to see, but not fun to listen to (unless you've seen the musical), and definitely not deserving of any of the awards it received.

Hairspray Is Fun The Whole Way Through
The absolute joy of Hairspray the Broadway show is available for keeps in the form of this wonderful CD! The hilarious and adorable songs make for a great time wherever you are. These are no Sondheim songs; they're not deep and don't have much relevance outside of the 60's and Baltimore. But none of this matters if you take the recording for what it is: an fun and energetic listening experience. The original cast's substantial vocal talent jumps out in tracks like "Run and Tell That," "You Can't Stop the Beat" and "Without Love." While Marisa Jaret Winokur's voice is a little whiny, it does nothing to ruin the classic fun of the album. The supporting cast is flawless; they lend the phenomenal energy of the show to the CD for a great time! ... Read more

Amazon.com essential recording

Fans of small, pretty-voiced soprano Sarah Brightman will not be disappointed by this CD. In addition to some pop songs, Brightman sings high-flying excerpts from Orff's Carmina Burana, Puccini's "O mio babbino caro" (performed better by almost any other operatic soprano elsewhere), and "Alleluia" from Mozart's Exsultate Jubilate. One might call this a crossover disc; others might just see it as a recording featuring a pop singer with artsy aspirations. Whatever it is, Brightman's fans love her; others do not. Two duets with tenor Jose Cura remind the listener what opera singing really ought to sound like. --Robert Levine ... Read more

Reviews (207)

A Surprise Pleasure for Not Particularly a Brightman Fan
I'd rather listen to Sarah Brightman than watch her. Her voice is lovely, but very small. Her technique, I think, is miniscule. She does not belong in operatic repertoire. All that criticism out of the way, I'll say this is a most delightful album! (Surprise!).

I'm weary of hearing Bocelli, who I find sometimes pleasant at best, but essentially boring, so forget the first number. "There's No One Like You" is gorgeous. The two duets with young Jose Cura are sensational, although that's because of Cura, who has a stunning voice and with his singing and acting skills and appearance/personality ought to be a much bigger star than Bocelli. Any of you who haven't: listen to him, watch him when you can. This is THE big tenor star on the rise.

The "Aranjuez" number by Brightman is ever so appealing, as is "In Trutino". Yes, her voice is too small for the "La Wally" aria, but it's pretty nonetheless, as, of course, is "O mio babbino caro." All in all, this CD is somehow just an enjoyable listen. I even like her read on the Gypsy Kings number.

Songbird Soothes Our Tensions
This album is particularly relaxing. I love to kick back with a glass of wine in a comfortable chair with my eyes closed and just listen.

Sarah's voice is complemented by Andrea Bocelli on the title track and Jose Cura on several others. The material runs from classical to pop, all with an operatic flavor. This is a great album to ease into opera or classical appreciation with. It is not true opera, but emulates some of the vocal and orchestral stylings associated with classical opera. Classical "purists" should look elswhere.

Sarah puts on a strong performance, exhibiting a multitude of qualities with her voice, ranging from strength to wispy warblings and everything in between. She even speaks between the final two tracks, recorded live. Her speaking voice is a surprise! If you enjoy relaxing music in a classical style, you will enjoy this CD. I would put this in her top three recordings, alongside "Eden" and "La Luna."

Whoever said that Miss Brightman has a thin voice is crazy!
I must say that this is one of my most listend to Sarah cds. I wish that some people would just get over the fact that she has a small voice sometimes, and just listen to the music. For heaven sakes, she is famous and it making more money than i ever will, she can sing bad all she wants!! who are we to say anything different??
Go to one of her concerts. It is the most amazing thing. If you close your eyes, you will literally think that you are in heaven!! Because, obviously, she is the "Angel of Music"!!!
I think that Miss Brightman deserves 2 thumbs up!! BRAVO!!

Time to Say Goodbye
Miss Brightman sing like a little angel and the song become very nice and heartfelt. She is a tremendous vocalist that put many singers to shame with her sheer tallent and poise. Ok, so it is not high art or culture but it is fun album with great songs. Highly Recommended.

If you've never heard anything better, this sounds good
I liked this CD for a little while when I didn't know of any singers that could sing better than her. She sounds okay on songs that are written for her because they make her voice sound less breathy and thin. Her voice is "sweet" but very thin. I have heard singers who have pretty voices that aren't so dramatic and full of vibrato as some of the other reviewers complain of opera singers.
Rebecca Luker
Dawn Upshaw (And she's a true opera singer)
Hayley Westenra

And if you think this is real classical singing or even anywhere close to classical singing listen to any decent Soprano over 16 who is classically trained and you will be amazed and how much better they are than her. ... Read more

Album Description

Combine the smoky cellars of a Weimar-era cabaret with the rock n’ roll fury of Joan Jett, PJ Harvey and The Violent Femmes and you have a remote idea of what to expect when experiencing The Dresden Dolls. ... Read more

Reviews (13)

Punk cabaret is a "perfect fit"
Old porcelain toys are what come to mind when you hear the name of the "Dresden Dolls." But their faces and their music sure won't make you think of toys. It's very different from what I had expected, with its raw lyrics and complex piano'n'drums music, and left me expecting future great things from the most original new group in eons.

The sound of a piano builds up to a crescendo in the pummelling, jerky "Good Day," a barbed, sarcastic little ditty. It's not a funny song, but has a dark humor that shines through in the deceptively simple, searing "Bad Habit," the jazzy, self-examining "Perfect Fit," and the quirky, funny "Coin Operated Boy." Some songs are a little more downbeat, like the chillingly creepy "Slide," with its bogeyman line "the orange man got you." Perhaps the best song on the album is "Girl Anachronism," a fast'n'furious, punkish song about a psychiatric patient.

The Dresden Dolls can catch your eye as no other band can, with their face paint and striking black-and-white clothing. And they can back up their unusual look by being just as musically interesting, with a strange mix of piano and drums that somehow weave together seamlessly. The piano at the start sounds like a dusty music box, coming form the corners of a dark, neglected attic. But that illusion is shattered as the album progresses to songs where the piano is as percussive as the hard drums.

Amanda Palmer's neurotic whirl of ex-boyfriends, razors, wind-up boy toys (literally!), black jeeps and not-cured psychiatric patients set the tone of the album. "Sappy songs about sex and cheating/bland accounts of two lovers meeting/make me want to give mankind a beating," she snaps. Her versatile voice can be high and girlish, or boom through the room.

Cabaret punk-rock sounds like some kind of novelty act, but the Dresden Dolls are the real thing: punk piano rock that is sexy, dark, twisted, and deliciously original. A must have.

Friggin Amazing
This album is amazing. The Dresden Dolls is a band that creates songs with my two favorite instruments: piano and drums. The songs are amazing, "demented" only beginning to describe their sound. I recommend that everyone at least give them a listen, keeping an open mind since their music really doesn't fit inside the restrictions of a particular genre.

I didn't like the album design too much, since the songs aren't listed on the back of the album and are instead on the inside, so I couldn't tell how many songs were on the disc until after I bought it. The little booklet that contains the lyrics though, is awesome. There's some great collage work going on, though some of the lyrics are out of order. The art alone makes it worth it, though (keep in mind, some of the art contains naked women drawings, so if you have overly-protective parents who like to peruse your CD collection, beware).

A warning to those of you who play your CDs on your computer, though. I have Windows ME and the CD didn't play on my computer. The only thing that registered was the video for Girl Anachronism. The songs didn't show up at all, even when I went to "explore" and specifically selected the E drive. So if you only have a computer to play your CDs on, be warned; it may not work on yours.

With that said, here are my personal ratings of the individual songs, rated out of 10, 10 being the best and 1 being absolute crap.

1. Good Day - 9/10 - I wasn't fond of this song at first, but after a couple listens, I couldn't get the chorus out of my head. I think it's the enthusiastic way the lead singer sings, "and I'M ON FIRE!" The song is original, a screw-you ode to an old boyfriend, with very clever lyrics ("I want to do more than survive; I want to rub it in your face," for example).

2. Girl Anachronism - 9/10 - The only reason this isn't a 10/10 is because this isn't the same version of the song that you can hear on their video. I prefer that version, which sounds like two different women (with identical voices!) singing the lyrics to each other, each too impatient to wait for the other to finish with her line before she begins her own. This version is cool, too, because what it lacks in the fine polishing of the video-version is made up for with an extreme amount of enthusiasm. The fast beat is wonderful. I love fast songs.

3. Missed Me - 10/10 - Demented! Twisted! Disturbed! This song is the very empitome of psychosis, a twisted little girl persona singing her own revenge fantasy about a (presumably) older lover. I even have a favorite line in the song, when she sings in a cute, high voice, "...and so misunderstood" and then follows it up with a wonderfully hellish growl of, "so treat me DELICATELY". Awesome. Awesome awesome awesome. The only problem I have with this song is that parts of it are really, really quiet, so I can't understand the wonderful lyrics. I agree with previous reviewers - whoever produced this really sucked when it came to polishing the final sound, because the constant raising and lowering of volume is really an issue.

4. Half Jack - 8/10 - The second half of this song is my favorite, because it gets louder and more aggressive, while the first part is merely moping. Still, it's awesome and I almost never skip it.

5. 672 - 3/10 - I really don't like this. You can't understand anything she says in it except for the number, and it sounds far away, like a live recording instead of something from the studio. The piano would be pretty if the sound had been managed better. I always skip this one.

6. Coin-Operated Boy - 10/10 - Extremely, extremely catchy. I find myself humming it often, and the lyrics are a delight. I'm extremely impressed that the band wrote these songs themselves, since they all sound _different_! Many of the bands I listen to have songs that blend together, because they're all the same speed, key, style. The Dresden Dolls are awesome because each of their songs is an individual, Coin-Operated Boy being an excellent example. The melody almost sounds like something from the 1930s, with the exception of the bridge.

7. Gravity - 10/10 - Neat lyrics, extremely catchy chorus, wonderful tune.

8. Bad Habit - 10/10 - Wonderful song about self-mutilation, because the tune is so HAPPY. This song is another reason to purchase the CD. Original bands like The Dresden Dolls deserve all the royalties they can get.

9. The Perfect Fit - 5/10 - Slow and boring. It's occasionally soothing whenever I get to it, because it goes well as a follow-up to Bad Habit, but for the most part, it's forgetable.

10. The Jeep Song - 5/10 - It sounds like a refuge from the 80s, and while the lyrics are clever and there's a bit of an homage to "paint it black" stuck into the middle, I just can't get into it.

11. Slide - 8/10 - Creepy, creepy, creepy. You can't really appreciate the song until you read the lyrics, and THEN you'll get what I'm talking about. Unfortunately, it's very hard to make out what the lyrics are on your own, since this song, like "missed me", has VOLUME ISSUES! ARGH! If only they had fixed up the songs better before they released it, this would have been the most perfect album EVER!

12. Truce - 3/10 - Boring. Long. Endless. At over 8 minutes (including the creepy voice at the end), it went on way too long. The lyrics were kinda "blah" too, at least to me.

Despite a few duds on the album, however, there are more than enough good songs to make up for it. I love The Dresden Dolls. They're almost like a combination of the piano skills of Tori Amos with the eccentricity of Rasputina. They're a great, great band and they deserve a listen.

Almost Amazing
The Dresden Dolls capture everything you would ever want in a great CD. They've got excellent dynamics going from soft (almost too soft at times) to very loud and full of emotion. They have twisted subjects. But, beware that if you buy this CD you are getting one heck of a lot of swear words. If you don't want to hear the F word, stay away from this. If you're okay with the swearing, then it's one of the best CDs you'll ever own. Just be aware of the amount of swearing

Something new and fresh, yet oh so gorgeous!...
Amanda Palmer truly makes a statement with her beautifully written melodies concerning her story book past. The first track, "Good Day" can no greater define the way that an album should introduce you to a new sound of musical talent. The song could be considered "pop" if you really pushed the buttons, however the truth stands that the Dresden Dolls are far from entering the mainstream culture. Tracks like "Missed Me" and "672" gave me goosebumps for their intensely-stricken perfection. Amanda's melancholic, cabaret-style vocals are both amazing in her range of harmonies displayed in tracks like "Pefect Fit" and my personal favorite "Bad Habit" (such a cute little song about an infamousely mistaken fetish). I could go down the list and give a detailed explination of the beauty of each and every song, however it would be a waste of time to talk such nonsense and opinionated critiquing. Just know that I ONLY listen to the Dresden Dolls now that I own the album. Best thing I've heard in years. I have the priviledge of seeing them next month in Hollywood, so I'll get to see the gorgeous Amanda up close in storytelling mode. If you enjoy Goth Rock, Rasputina, you'll love this band.

Amazing , quality music..
Its all i ever wanted .So much passion goes into this . They would be worth seeing Live . This cd is purely an experience . I seem to enjoy all of the tracks , each with their own story and emotion . Amanda and Brian are very talented .I cant express such quality , its simpley amazing . ... Read more

Amazon.com

A great, comprehensive collection of Sinatra's most popular Reprise tracks, and worth having for any number of reasons, Very Best Of features tons of familiar hits--but requires a caveat for casual Sinatra fans. When Sinatra formed Reprise, he began to re-record many of the sides he'd released on Capitol, in an attempt to transfer his catalog to the new label. It was a smooth move, but his re-recorded versions seldom replaced the originals in the way he'd hoped. And many of the familiar songs here are Capitol remakes. It'd be a task to compare the track listing here with that of the Capitol Years set, but if you want to get serious about your Sinatra, that's the way to go. If you're just a music fan, this is a gem. --Gavin McNett ... Read more

Reviews (60)

A good companion to "The Capitol Years"
Although both "The Very Best of Frank Sinatra" and "The Capitol Years" qualify as greatest hits compilations, Sinatra fans would be well served to own both sets.

Even though many of the selections on this 2-disk set are remakes of the earlier Capitol recordings, there is enough new stuff to make "The Very Best" worth the extra investment.

"A Foggy Day", "The Way You Look Tonight", "The Summer Wind", "That's Life", "It Was a Very Good Year", "Wave", "Luck Be a Lady" and "New York, New York" are unique to this collection (as well as the execrable "Strangers in the Night"). And I prefer the Reprise rendition of "Night and Day", which Sinatra sings as a slow torch song. On the Capitol recording, it's done as a rerun of "I've Got You under My Skin." The more upbeat reading of "Witchcraft" also suits my tastes better than the earlier version. On the other hand, the introduction-only "Stardust" stikes me as strange.

On the whole, I prefer the Capitol recordings, even though the sound quality is somewhat lacking. And of course, there are simply more songs on the 3-disk Capitol collection.

Still, I'd strongly recommend this compendium to old Sinatra fans and those less familiar with his work. Flaws and all, it's classic Sinatra!

BEST of "the best"- The way you remember Frank at HIS best
A RARE collection indeed! Of the 3 dozen-plus Sinatra recordings i own this is the one i keep coming back to time after time. Not only a SUPER selection of 40 of his most popular classics (notably served up in a thoughtfully-ordered 2-CD songlist) there's another bonus hideen here as well: many of these tracks are stand-alone best evers. This is the way you remember Sinatra - smooth, rich and suave!

This is THE VINTAGE of vintage Frank - recordings waxed almost exclusively from 1960 and on - and thus, unlike so many of the dreaded "best" compilations, this set spares us the litany of tired "same-old" recordings in lieu of the better swingin', energetic (and otherwise hard to find) takes of familiar numbers like "Tender Trap", "Don'cha Go Away Mad", "Witchcraft" and "Come Fly with Me" -- it's such a koo-koo day!!

REPRISE's "The Very Best of Frank Sinatra" would make a teriffic FIRST dip into Sinatra for many -- and for my part, if faced with tossing all of my Sinatra CDs but one, this one would be the LAST to go.

ok
He is ok, but he blatantly copied AC/DC. I mean Angus & Malcolm invented smooth lounge singing way before Frank Sinatra.

The eternal crooner
Frankie was sociologically the man who fought against all the odds and obstacles , he overpassed them and won. He acquired the status of living legend just because he knew engage all a whole generation of people , he din't only sing to the golden age , but he took the place of Bing Crosby and made the arrangements to be in the fashion mood with the post war generation. His velvet , expressive an eloquent voice he added his presence in the screen (From here to the eternity , the man with the golden arm ,Manchurian candidate Von Ryan's express) and showed also his skills as actor.
To talk about all the innovative devices that Frankie made in the artistic world would overcome that brief review.
These Capitol years defined a style and melted to that golden generation of crooners as Nat King Cole, Bobby Darin , Dean Martin, Tony Bennet, to name the most remarkable.
He survived to the rock new sound and he knew how to keep the link with a main social target without sacrifice any particle of his craft.
Frankie was a powerful influence for the sixties generation , think in Tom Jones for instance or Engelbert Humperdinck.
I would need a book to talk about the huge influence that even still Sinatra is making now, in this age.
Acquire this set and don't forget that Frankie was also a blessed guy . He married with Ava Gardner ,a cosmic beauty.
And above all think in this point , the portrait made for Mario Puzzo in the Godfather was meangliness due the myth was built!.

The Standard By Which All Others Are Judged: Frank Sinatra!
When it comes to the music of the twentieth century, there are many musical presences that made tremendous contributions to the foundation, development, and elevation of American popular music and the greatness it has achieved, but no one and I mean no one has had a greater influence on the art form or impact on the public through the medium than the master, Frank Sinatra. Never before or since have we seen a single personality dominate the publics attention for such a lengthy period of time, (almost 60 years) with his music, movies, TV appearances, concert performances, and Rat Pack adventures. Even more so today, his massive body of work is cherished and enjoyed by countless numbers of adoring fans worldwide and rightfully so, he left us with an treasure chest full of priceless gems that is unequalled, at least in this century.

"The Very Best of Frank Sinatra" is a masterful compilation of his greatest hits that any music lover is sure to enjoy. There are many remakes of earlier recordings that Frank did with Capitol on this CD, several of which I like better than the originals, but my all time favorite Sinatra songs are also included on this CD and those are the ones I can't live without. When Frank starts to swing to "That's Life", "The Way You Look Tonight", or "The Best Is Yet To Come", you can feel his passion for the music pour out through the speakers and you are engulfed by his perfect sense of swing. Never has there been a more perfect version of "Night and Day", performed like only Sinatra could with his perfect tones and exquisite phrasing. "Summer Wind" is flawless, and there is no other song I know of that will lift you up off the deck and fill your sails with wind than the exhilarating "Theme from New York, New York".

I feel that this mixture of classic Sinatra songs is as near to perfect as you will ever find on a two CD set. Those of you who are already Sinatra lovers probably have many of these tunes on other Sinatra CDs, but I really like the way these tunes are arranged in order on these CDs and the quality is probably better than earlier recordings so I would still suggest you get this CD set also. For those of you who are just beginning to discover the musical genius that is Sinatra, this is a must have CD set no questions asked. After listening to this collection of songs you will surely be coming back for more. I guarantee it!

I recently discovered a new contemporary crooner named Monte Procopio that I also enjoy. He sings with a real passion for the music and his new CD, "Monte Procopio "Swingin' With Style" features a 13 piece band that really swings and deserves a listen. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

He has definitely made it
So many guilty pleasures will always come & go in this well-shown music industry. Yet, with all the manuifactured artists today, we often forget about guilty and simple pleasures from the past generations that continue to influence music from all around the world. That goes true for so many acts from the 70's, especially Barry Manilow. His songs have really brought out the best appeal to all around this great globe. As the first U.S. artist to have a album debut at #1 on the Billboard charts, Barry has been one of the few crowning acts that just keeps having very well near perfection with greatest hits records. A few years ago, Arista and Barry achieved surprising status upon hits with the recognized Ultimate Manilow from 2002, now it has been shown again.

The Essential Barry Manilow, is a reflected look at the legendary Barry Manilow's career on 2 cd's. The compilation is the first of Arista acts recognized from Sony's essential series, since the merger of Sony & BMG. The songs here are reflected graciously with so many of Manilows biggest hits recognized including his classics I Made It Through The Rain, the legendary Copacabana, the guilty pleasure piano ballad Mandy, Weekend In New England, Somewhere Down The Road, and many of his other greats. The collection has been remastered nicely, and is delivered quaintly well. Yet, for some who've bought any earlier Barry Manilow collection, this one might want to be a good addition for some, where others may just consider the earlier Ultimate Manilow collection, considering all 20 tracks from that collection are also here.

Nevertheless, Barry Manilow just keeps coming back with his great pop songs issued all over again. I just absolutely suggest this package for anybody who is interested into Barry Manilow and his great songs. He just can't keep smiling without you.

Songs: B+

Album Cover: B 1/2+

Price: B-

Mastering: B+

Overall: B

It Attempts To Be Essential.
Barry Manilow hand-picked these songs according to the packaging label.The songs and the booklet are impressively selected.What you'll find to be interesting are pieces from his 1977 "Live" album.There are three of those.What you may not find interesting is the absence of "Let's Hang On", "Oh Julie", "Stay (hit in the U.K.)", "I Wanna Do It With You", and at least "Keep Each Other Warm".The song did chart in 1989 as did two other songs from that self-titled album.
When Manilow went to another label in 1985, he recorded a dance track, "I'm Your Man", included on this compilation which was a hit in the clubs across the country and likely most of the world.Anyone wonder where "You're Lookin' Hot Tonight" is? Or "It's Just Another New Year's Eve"?In studying the success of the 1985 album he had another hit, "In Search of Love".We need to keep in mind what he had hits with in other places ofthe world.This also goes for where he "bounced" back from being on hiatus.Something from "Live On Broadway" would have been nice.
The word "essential" doesn't necessarily mean 'best of', although that's what we're being handed here. It is better to take action after saying "essential" with constituting an essence. The ones involved for making this CD didn't give an essence.Barry gave hits, but he didn't pull stuff out that would show some differences to his musical artistry.You can check out his box set from 1992, but even this has failures.
In closure, I would encourage him or other people to look at his albums differently and cut out compositions that show various angles of musical work.One song that does stand out that would have been excellent for the CD would have been "A Little Travelling Music, Please".He has performed it in concert and it was warmly embraced by his audiences."Live" versions of hits sound better because they could be sharper than the studio cut."Looks Like We Made It" is a definite example.When anyone hears his signature anthem, "I Write The Songs", more so than not the ideal way to hear this is a concert recording."Live" from 1977 would provide this elegantly, or his most recent concert 2 cd set, "2 Nights Live!" would suffice quite well.That CD is almost worthy of essentialness too.

Excellent double-CD of Barry's music
In an age where most people placed more importance on the beat of a song than the song itself, Barry came along in the seventies to remind us what great songwriting is really all about. He wrote or co-wrote several of his classic songs but he was always willing to record quality songs written by others. Fortunately for Barry, there were still enough people around in the seventies and eighties who loved great songs, so he was able to become a major star despite being unfashionable in some quarters. Of course, he got - and continues to get - plenty of criticism from those with different musical taste, but the appreciation of his fans provides him with more than adequate compensation.

This compilation covering his most successful years contains many of Barry's classic songs including all his important American hits though there are some notable omissions from a British perspective. Although Barry had many UK hits, only one of them actually made the top ten (I wanna do it with you) and it's not included here. Two other major UK hits (Let's hang on, Bermuda triangle) are also missing. Nevertheless, this is a fine compilation and a class act like Barry should not be judged on hits alone.

Among the many classic songs included here are I write the songs (ironically, not written by Barry), The old songs, Somewhere in the night, I made it through the rain, Daybreak, Trying to get the feeling, Ships, Looks like we made it, Mandy, Copacabana at the Copa, Can't smile without you and Could it be magic.

This compilation provides a great introduction to Barry's music while being more comprehensive than the Ultimate single CD.

The Most (almost) Complete Manilow Ever!!
I'm not a big fan of edits, I've always believed that songs are the length they are for a reason, radio needs to get over itself. Saying that, this collection is the most comprehensive of Barry's radio hits save for the two tracks already mentioned in the other reviews prior. The two albums missing to make this a comprehensive studio representation are "Singing With The Big Bands" and "Manilow Sings Sinatra."The song "Let Me Be Your Wings" performed with Debra Byrd would have made a nice inclusion but again, it wasn't a hit. What is here is a track from Barry's obscure gem "Manilow" and it's the ultra rare 12" inch version of "I'm Your Man."I loved this song when it was new, it's nice to hear it again in all it's digital splendor.One more overlooked song is from 1989's "Barry Manilow," "Keep Each Other Warm," a hit in it's own right and there is enough space left over to accomodate at least that track. Oh well, these small omissions do nothing to deter this collection from being the best currently available. Now that Sony has merged with BMG reissues of Barry's previously unavailable albums may be released on disc, maybe.

+ 1/2 stars as well!
I just wanted to add something to "cdlover2277"'s well documented and informing review.I have the vinyl 45 single of "Could It Be Magic", which incorrectly states a run time of 3:37 on the record label, thus leading to some confusion.The single version actually runs 4:16 and is exactly what appears on the "Essential Barry Manilow" CD set.While some reviewers have expressed disappointment with the inclusion of the single version, it should be clarified that this is how the song was played on Top 40 radio back in 1975.

Also, "It's a Miracle" does not appear in its correct single version form on this CD.The 45 runs shorter. ... Read more

Amazon.com

A meeting of two over-the-top pop minds was said a few years ago to have happened. If work between chest-pounding pop balladeer Celine Dion and legendarily eccentric producer Phil Spector hadn't been aborted in its early stages, fans of the Canadian superstar might have heard her best, most interesting music. As it is, Dion has shown herself game for a challenge, notably in a collaboration with Meat Loaf svengali Jim Steinman on the offbeat opus "It's All Coming Back to Me Now." All the Way... A Decade of Song is just what you'd expect of a multiplatinum seller's greatest-hits package, but it's also more. Displaying a generosity toward her fans, Dion cherry picks nine signature singles ("My Heart Will Go On," "Because You Loved Me," "Beauty and the Beast"), then fills the rest of the CD with seven new cuts when one or two would have done the commercial trick. Most of these are just what admirers and detractors would expect, and Sinatra lovers will hope that All the Way's title track is the last time his family allows an invented Frank-and-random-celebrity duet to take place. But the textures of "I Want You to Need Me" and "Live," while hardly understated, are more measured. They give hope that Dion may yet take herself to a higher artistic plateau, while still pleasing her millions of listeners. --Rickey Wright ... Read more

Reviews (555)

Most Of Her Greatest Hits...And Then Some
The best part of this "greatest hits" CD collection isn't the old songs. It's the new ones. As a longtime Celine Dion fan, I was a bit dissapointed that some of her older hits ("Where Does My Heart Beat Now?", "Nothing Broken But My Heart", "If There Was Any Other Way") and newer, more interesting work ("The Prayer", "River Deep, Mountain High" were left off of this in favor of the songs that have already been overplayed on the radio. Does anyone really need to hear "My Heart Will Go On" again? Nine songs seems like hardly enough to call this work a true greatest hits CD. But with seven new songs, Celine gives both old and new fans almost a whole album's worth of new songs. Almost enough to tide us over while she goes into semi-retirement. By far the best of these new songs is "Live" written by Luc Plamondon, the French-Canadian composer who is responsible for Celine's amazing French-language "Dion Chante Plamondon" album. Other strong new songs include the upbeat "That's The Way It Is", the beautiful cover of Roberta Flack's "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" and "I Want You To Need Me". But if you find that you are going through Celine withdrawl after she retires, check out her French albums. She clearly takes more artistic chances in her native language and the music is constistenly more interesting and more beautiful than her English work. Still "All The Way" is a must-have for any Celine fan.

A look to her past and a glimpse of her present
Celine Dion's "All The Way" combines nine of her past hits along with seven new tracks to create an album that's half greatest hits, half new material.

As with any greatest hits collection, there will be arguments over what should and shouldn't have been included. Among the featured tracks are her "Titanic" hit "My Heart Will Go On" and one of her best efforts to date, "Because You Loved Me". Among her missing hits are her US debut single "Where Does My Heart Beat Now"; "When I Fall In Love", from the "Sleepless in Seattle" soundtrack; "Power of the Dream", an uplifting b-side that was featured prominently during the 1996 Summer Olympics broadcast; and "Nothing Broken But My Heart". But you could only fit so much on half a CD.

The second half consists of newly recorded material, including a nicely performed "duet" with Frank Sinatra on the title track. The highlight of the new tracks is "That's The Way It Is", a surprisingly light and upbeat tune from a singer known more for her power ballads. "Then You Look At Me", "Live", and "If These Walls Could Talk" are typical Celine ballads: not bad, but not extraordinary.

This is Celine Dion's last recording for some time; It gives diehard and casual fans a chance to hear some new songs while reliving her past glory.

Beautiful and Heart Warming Songs
Celine Dion has an amazing and beautiful voice, and the songs here showcase it wonderfully. Although I feel a few essential songs have escaped the collection, ie. 'All By Myself' and 'Think Twice', the majority of the songs here are great. Highlights include 'The Power Of Love', 'Beauty and The Beast', 'Because You Loved Me', 'That's The Way It Is' and the incredible and beautiful 'To Love You More'. The massive and Grammy-award winning hit 'My Heart Will Go On' is nice as well. The only reason I didn't give this album 4 stars is that I feel some of the songs are fillers, but all in all this album is an essential addition to any record collection.

All The Way... A Decade Of Song (1999)
In 1999, Celine had learned that her husband and manager, Renee Angelil, had become diagnosed with throat cancer. Celine was already considering a two-year break, so she and her husband can start a family of their own and so she can see her own family more often, but after learning of Renee's diagnosis, she decided it was time to stop for two years. In doing so, she released her tenth album, All The Way... A Decade Of Song. This is a 16-track album, where the first nine songs are her English-language greatests hits from 1990 to 1998, while the last seven are new songs. It's an amazing album and only Celine Dion has the voice to sing these songs.

THE POWER OF LOVE
From the album The Colour Of My Love (1993). This was originally recorded by Laura Brannigan back in 1988, but Celine Dion gave us the definitive version. I know that what I am about to say is something that I've said a million times, but I have to say it again: This is another song for my late grandfather, only this time, this song was dedicated to him by my grandmother. The lyrics are perfect for the the two of them because they most definitely had The Power Of Love.

IF YOU ASKED ME TO
From the album Celine Dion (1992). This one has always been one of my favorite Celine songs. It's a classic hit all the way.

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST (with Peabo Bryson)
From the original motion picture & soundtrack Beauty And The Beast (1991). From the album Celine Dion (1992). Definitely one of the most romantic Disney songs I've ever heard. Celine and Peabo sing it beautifully.

BECAUSE YOU LOVED ME
From the original motion picture Up, Close, & Personal (1996). From the album Falling Into You (1996). Another beautiful song. This is my mother's dedication to my grandfather and it's the perfect song for her.

IT'S ALL COMING BACK TO ME NOW (Single Version)
Original version from the album Falling Into You (1996). The album version ran to 7 minutes and 37 seconds, while this version runs to 5 and a half minutes and it is known as a power ballad. Both versions are incredibly beautiful and it's the song that made me a fan.

LOVE CAN MOVE MOUNTAINS
From the album Celine Dion (1992). A great song and among the many songs that was written by Diane Warren.

TO LOVE YOU MORE
From the album Let's Talk About Love (1997). I used to love this song, but now I think I wore it out for myself because I don't like it like I used to, but it's still a great song.

MY HEART WILL GO ON
From the original motion picture & soundtrack Titanic (1997). From the album Let's Talk About Love (1997). The Titanic may have sank, but this is a song that cannot sink, no matter how hard you tried to sink it. Her voice has always been known to be one of the most beautiful of voices, but her voice on this one gives Beautiful a whole new meaning.

I'M YOUR ANGEL (with R. Kelly)
From the album These Are Special Times (1998). A beautiful song and another one of my dedications.

THAT'S THE WAY IT IS
New song. Celine has said that she was getting sick and tired of having people write her ballads. She said that she does like ballads and she does enjoy singing them, but she does like up-tempo songs too. Max Martin had written this song with Celine in mind, so when he came to Celine with this song, Celine, excited about it, accepted the offer. It is, indeed, an up-tempo song and a great one.

IF WALLS COULD TALK
New song. Not bad.

THE FIRST TIME EVER I SAW YOUR FACE
New song. Although this is a beautiful song, nobody can do it like Roberta Flack. Roberta's version is the definitive classic.

ALL THE WAY (virtual duet with Frank Sinatra)
New song. This song was originally recorded by Frank Sinatra. Celine had planned to re-record this whole song by herself, but she decided to make it a duet. Being that Frank had already passed on, Celine made this a virtual duet by recording over half of the song he sang and leaving in the other half. She remade this one because it is her and her husband's "song".

THEN YOU LOOK AT ME
New song. Okay.

I WANT YOU TO NEED ME
New song. Diane Warren has written many great songs for Celine, including, Love Can Move Mountains, If You Asked Me To, I Love You Good-Bye, Nothing But My Broken Heart, Real Emotion, Next Plane Out, The Colour Of My Love, & Because You Loved Me. She has written yet another beautiful song for Celine and it's right here.

LIVE
New song. Not bad.

Celine has given us an incredible greatest hits album and all of you should own it. If not, then buy it, you'll enjoy it.

Céline is not only a singer...
Correction: Céline is not only a very talented singer but also both an excellent pianist and a songwriter; she has composed many songs (released: Don't Save It All For Christmas Day, Ce n'était qu'un rêve), but fortunately (or unfortunately) for her, she has been surrounded by some very talented songwriters and has released only a few. ... Read more

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Commemorating the 40th anniversary of Nat King Cole's death in 1965, this compilation is the CD companion of an excellent DVD/documentary. Produced with the blessing of his estate, this disc is a thorough survey of his timeless genius--all recorded on the Capitol label. It captures his sumptuous and soothing tenor voice crooning on the pop tunes he made famous, like the ethereal "Nature Boy," the melancholy "Mona Lisa," and the bouncy "Straighten Up and Fly Right," and "Route 66." It also features Cole's often-overlooked skills as an Earl Hines-style pianist. "Quizas, Quizas, Quizas (Perhaps, Perhaps, Perhaps)," and "Darling, Je Vous Aime Beaucoup," attest to his international appeal, and see if you can keep a dry eye when you listen to Natalie Cole's posthumous, digitally-enhanced duet with her father on "Unforgettable." From strings to big bands, Nat King Cole is never out of style. --Eugene Holley, Jr.

SPECIAL CONTENT: Watch Free Clips about Nat "King" Cole

The World of Nat "King" Cole (high bandwidth) (300k stream)

The World of Nat "King" Cole (low bandwidth) (56k stream)

... Read more

Reviews (18)

Classic Cole Compilation
This CD is a great starting point for anyone who is only casually acquainted with Nat's legendary career.Twenty-eight tracks, great audio quality, and terrific liner notes by Natalie Cole make "The World of Nat King Cole " a one-of-a-kind bargain.The songs are pretty much in chronological order from the 1940's through the 60's until Nat's untimely death in February of 1965.It's a classy 40th - anniversary salute to one of the greatest pop/jazz vocalists of the 20th-century.Cole, Sinatra, Bennett, and Torme form the Hall of Fame of the most brilliant interpreters of pop standards, and this CD is a worthy addition to that collective discography.Essential, five stars, and HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

His Warmth Shines Through
Nat King Cole projects such warmth in performance.Although this project recognizes the 40th anniversary of his passing, he seems be eternally present through these marvelous recordings.Sisters Natalie and Carole Cole have worked hard to bring this project to fruition; and the result projects their love and care.Seeing the photograph of Nat with John Kennedy and the telegram from Martin Luther King Jr. highlights the importance of this performer during his lifetime.The fact that his brilliance reads to a new generation 40 years later testifies to his enduring legacy.

The music here is so consistently brilliant that it's hard to pick favorites.The whole CD is a highlight.At the top of my own personal top ten recently has been Chris Botti's instrumental version of "When I Fall In Love."To hear King's vocals with the lyric is a real treat, "When I give my heart, it will be completely; or I'll never give my heart."This is the type track that makes romantics everywhere melt!:)The instrumental version of "Nature Boy" in the film "Angel Eyes" where Jim Caviezel suffering from amnesia suddenly picks up a horn and plays this song impressed this melody indelibly on my mind.Then to hear it again in Moulin Rouge was another treat.This version of Nat King Cole's fully highlights the wistful and gorgeous melody.The soft-shoe rhythm of "Walkin' My Baby Back Home" puts a residual smile on my face.Newer singers like Peter Cincotti or Michael Buble who hearken back to this era have their exceptional talent and ability, but Cole will never be matched or surpassed for being good & cool, as Isaac Hayes notes in the booklet.Billy May's arrangement of "Let's Face the Music & Dance" bubbles joyfully & irrepressibly.The Cole penned "Straighten Up & Fly Right" is so delightfully silly and serious at the same time!Bert Kaempfert's "L-O-V-E" is so thoroughly familiar, but exquisitely delightful in Mr. Cole's hands.This set sparkles with the remastering and Nat King Cole will long be a cherished part of our recorded history.Bravo!

Nat KING Cole...The name says it all...
I've just gotten into the King and I am glad I did, better late than never, right? This album is PERFECT for any newcomer and even veteran fans. Most of these songs I've heard but only covers of including "Smile" and "Quizas, Quizas, Quizas." I was amazed at how this album is one of those great albums you don't have to skip over any songs. Each song is beautiful and it really brings a positive light and mood when you listen.

I was going to create a list of the tracks and rate them individually but the majority receive 5 out of 5 stars so it's pointless.

Great collection, Timeless Music
The World of Nat King Cole is a really great CD. Being that I am in my twenties, I admit, the most I knew about Nat King Cole musically was "Mona Lisa" and "Unforgettable," but the "World of Nat King Cole" CD opened up a whole new world of Nat King Cole Music to me.I found that songs like "Straighten Up and Fly Right" and "(Get Your Kicks On)Route 66" songs that have been remade and included in commericals were songs sung by the King Cole Trio.The music on this CD is so pop and upbeat.The sounds of the horns come alive through your speakers especially on songs like "Day In-Day Out."Other songs I enjoyed were "L-O-VE," "Too Young," and "Thou Swell."I enjoyed the whole CD to tell you the truth and so did my kids.This is timeless music.The CD iteself includes 28 Nat King Cole songs, including the duet with his daughter Natalie, "Unforgettable."This is a great collection at a great price.

Maybe the best NAT COLE Collection out there!
Nat is among the very greatest pop performers of all time! As a jazz pianist, he was the top. His later vocal career is surpassed in consistant quality by no one! In fact, only Sinatra recorded such consistly great material during the 1950's and early 1960's. When Nat died in his mid 40's in 1965, his great sound passed on too, but luckily for the world his recordings will always live on! This CD has most of his very famous hits, ballads and toe-tappers, along with some lessor known, equally fine, songs. Check out his version of SMILE, the best ever. Also, ORANGE COLORED SKY, ON THE STREET WHERE YOU LIVE. LOVE, and my favorite YOU STEPPED OUT OF A DREAM, just a few among the hundreds of his best, 2 dozen which are featured here! For those who say "Just another Company making $$ on another 'Best of' Collection", I say, Great! Performers like Nat come along maybe once a generation, and his recordings are as timeless as anyone's, and can be appreciated by all ages. By the way, the late Ray Charles was greatly influenced by Nat, and his earliest recordings are almost carbon copies, until Ray realized he needed to initiate his own sound! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Recorded at the historic Olympia Theatre in Paris in November 2001, this is Diana Krall's first live album. Backed by her quicksilver comboof bassist John Clayton, drummer Jeff Hamilton, and guitarist JohnPisano (on some tracks), Krall's jazz heritage comes through loud and clear on this programof standards, ballads, and bossa novas. On Peggy Lee's "I Love Being Herewith You," Bob Dorough's "Devil May Care," and Frank Sinatra's "Fly Me to the Moon," Krall's snappy, postbop piano playing shows off her debt to Nat "King" Cole and Jimmy Rowles. Her cool contralto vocals are illuminated by the Orchestre Symphonique Europeen, under the direction of Alan Broadbent, as well as the London Symphony Orchestra, led by conductor Claus Ogerman. Krall's deep take on Joni Mitchell's "A Case of You" is a great choice for an encore, and the CD concludes with Billy Joel's "Just theWay You Are" (a studio track from a film called The Guru), withtenor saxophonist Michael Brecker and bassist Christian McBride. This collection only hints at what Diana Krall has to offer in the future.--Eugene Holley Jr. ... Read more

Reviews (104)

Separate but equal to some of her other stellar releases
After spending the past few weeks listening to her other releases I own, it's apparent to me that Diana Krall's "Live in Paris" highlights several qualities which aren't as noticeable on the other albums. For one, her voice is fuller, huskier, and shows a greater dynamic range here than on many of her studio-recorded tracks. In addition, the more open arrangements which come with a live gig allow her jazz piano skills to shine in ways not often heard on the albums. Finally, the rhythmic variations she displays with her voice and fingers throughout the performance aren't utilized much on her earlier albums.

After listening through the album several times, my personal faves are "The Look of Love," "Maybe You'll Be There," and "A Case of You." I don't care much for the version of "Just the Way You Are" included here. Though it's included as a bonus track, its polished smooth-jazz/pop sound doesn't fit well with the jazzy, more open and engaging tracks which precede it.

All in all, if you've seen Ms. Krall live (I saw her in D.C. in April) I heartily recommend this CD - it'll bring back what makes evenings with her so memorable. And if you haven't seen her live, this CD will make you want to.

The Swinging Diana Krall is Back!
This CD has what Diana Krall does best and what I really want to hear her do: get togther with a cookin' rhythmic combo and just swing through some jazz tunes. She really finds a solid groove and sits right in the pocket during almost every tune. Her piano playing gets better all the time: simple, with just the right combination of single note elegance and splendid jazz licks. Listen especially to her performances here of "Let's Fall in Love" and "East of the Sun." She doesn't play a lot of notes, but she sure plays the right ones. They are right on the money. Jimmy Rowles and Hank Jones would be pleased. "Look of Love?" Well, OK, it was a different marketing shot, but my two cents ask that she put that aside now and get back to swinging and jazz, just like we get it here. One quibble: she sings such great tunes with such classic melodies, it would nice to hear her actually sing them, rather than to play around with every one. The great jazz singers always sang a few songs straight.

One of Diana's Best
I bought "Girl in the Other Room" and did not care for that depressing album at all. But when a friend played this for me, I could not believe it was the same singer. This is an amazing album, full of swing, sass, life and great orchestration, everything the other album is not. I am going to have to listen to her other previous albums now. This one was wonderful, I hope there is more from this singer like this!

So good live!
Diana is so good live!

http://www.vervemusicgroup.com has more live clips...

Kick off your shoes, put on this CD, and relax.
I was introduced to Diana Krall when a friend of mine recommended "Love Scenes," and I have been hooked on Diana's laid-back, slick, vaguely retro voice ever since. "Live in Paris" is by far my favorite of her albums. While the DVD features several more songs than does this CD--"Pick Yourself Up" and "All or Nothing" come to mind--the CD is still perfect for setting a causal, intimate vibe (during car trips, get-togethers, or quiet evenings at home with a good book and a glass of wine). In fact, the range of moods Diana sets with her smoldering voice make "Live in Paris" appropriate for a variety of occasions; "I Love Being Here With You" features a lively, hopping rhythm section, "East of the Sun" is playful swing, and Diana's cover of Joni Mitchell's "A Case of You" is given a new, meloncholic texture with her deep voice and tinkling piano work.

The charm of "Live in Paris" does not lie in the touch-ups of any producers, but in the subtle performance Diana gives, along with the tight-as-clockwork jazz ensemble backing her up. This is a disc that can be played for years and still sound fresh. Fans of Norah Jones; Harry Connick, Jr.; or Natalie Cole will surely enjoy this treat, as will any lover of well-crafted music with a jazzy bend. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Neil Diamond is one of a rare breed. As a songwriter, his music has been covered successfully by artists as diverse as the Monkees, Deep Purple, UB40, and Smash Mouth. But Diamond used that three-chord alchemy to build an unparalleled career as a performer as well. The 38 tracks on these two discs address those interlocking legacies in the most comprehensive manner yet, gathering his material from Bang! Records (including such pop staples as "Solitary Man," "Cherry, Cherry," "Kentucky Woman," "Red, Red Wine," and "I'm a Believer"), Universal (highlighted by "Sweet Caroline," Song Sung Blue," "Holly Holy," and "I Am ... I Said"), and Columbia for the first time. And if Diamond has veered toward the middle of the road on those latter recordings (such as "September Morn," "Heartlight," and the Streisand duet "You Don't Bring Me Flowers"), there remains a remarkable consistency throughout his work. As if to underscore the point, a number of mid-period hits (including "Shiloh," "Brother Love's Traveling Salvation Show," and "Soolaimon") are featured as live recordings from fall 2001. These performances show that the sweet roughness of his voice has only grown in power and drama; it's small wonder that Diamond remains one of the top live draws in the business. Even if it overlooks Diamond's unlikely late-'90s hit country album (Tennessee Moon), this set manages to be both concise and thorough, the best introduction yet to an American music legend. --Jerry McCulley ... Read more

Reviews (19)

Songs sung blue.
This collection is very similar to his 2-disc "Greatest Hits 1966-1992", but I think this is the better one. For the casual fan, every song is here that matters, and with 38 hits, it really is essential. Included is "Solitary Man", "Sweet Caroline", "I Am...I Said", and "America", among many others. It also has my favorite "Heartlight", which wasn't a huge hit, but makes me feel good. It's true some of these tracks are live, but they're still nearly as enjoyable as the originals. Live "Neil" is pretty good after all. If you want just 1 disc, get the 18 track "Collection".

Super Collection with 3 Must-Haves for Diehards
Since most of the tracks on this collection have been released previously (numerous times for many of them), I will focus my review of this collection on the new live cuts, more specifically Captain Sunshine, He Ain't Heavy, and the medley of Yes I Will/Lady Magdalene.

Before I focus on them however, let me say that the studio recordings of Neil's greatest songs are all on this collection. Listening to all of these tracks, one can gain an appreciation why Neil Diamond is not only revered as a songwriter but as a vocalist. These are timeless pieces of Americana and popular music.

The three live cuts that are noteworthy in this collection are songs hitherto, unreleased as live recordings. In fact, they are songs that Neil has rarely performed live until this current 2001-2002 tour. For me, they represent two things, one the strong writing skills Neil Diamond has even in songs that never became 'greatest hits' and two, the enduring voice Neil Diamond has even after 60+ years.

1. Captain Sunshine is a song from Neil Diamond's 1972 album called Moods. The song was put into the current tour as a tribute to a longtime band member, Vince Charles. The song is a beautiful tribute to the man. Neil Diamond's voice on this song sounds as youthful as it has since the early 1980's (listen to Play Me on this collection as a early 1990's comparison to see how his voice improved from the 90's to today).

2. He Ain' Heavy, He's My Brother is in Neil's current show as a tribute to the heros and victims of the September 11, 2001 attacks and the troops that are currently fighting for the U.S. What is particularly interesting about this song is that Neil sang it before it ever became a hit. In essence, he discovered the song. Although sung differently than the way the hit goes (I believe by the Hollies), the song emulates a feeling of sincerity and love. Again, Neil's voice is solid in this song, although he does tend to talk/sing a bit in places.

3. Yes I Will/Lady Magdalene was put on this album, in my opinion, in response to the diehard fans that continually have requested that Neil sing this live in concert. Many Neil Diamond fans consider these two songs as Neil's finest compositions, and I concur. These two songs represent a more mystical side of Neil with lyrics that aren't as straight-forward as most of his songs. Not only are the words incredible, but the music is awesome. Neil sings these songs almost as well as he did in the studio back in 1973/1974. Truly this and the other three tracks are totally worth buying another greatest hits collection of America's greatest singer/songwriter.

A living legend? Neil Diamond is, and this collection proves it!

It's the newer "Live" ones that make this set unique!
There are at least four Neil Diamond's represented on this collection -- from the (1) very early "Bang" pieces (Cherry Cherry, You Got to Me) to the (2) classic studio hits (Sweet Caroline, I Am...I Said) to (3) mid-career MOR pop songs (You Don't Bring Me Flowers, Forever in Blue Jeans) to (4) newly recorded "live" versions of often-overlooked, but quite substantial, ND compositions (Soolaimon, Captain Sunshine, Yes I Will/Lady Magdalene).

It's the later group (found only on this CD) which makes it especially worthwhile, because in recording them here ND has (finally) learned to sing into the microphone, instead of shouting over it to the last row of the arena. Much better engineering than on previous "live" collections, excepting the full-throttle (original) Hot August Night, and 1997's hard-to-find "ND Live in Concert" 3-CD collection, whose Missa/Soolaimon and re-mastered Jonathon Livingston Seagull suites are not to be matched. Enjoy!

Sex, Drugs, Rock N Roll get old
this album is just too hardcore for me, with thrashing guitars and banging drums, i got a headache, maybe i have a tumor! but this cd sucks. Metal at its worst

The Best One Out There, But...
The studio stuff on here is great. Early stuff is in mono, later stuff is in stereo. Yes, as others have pointed out, 9 of the 38 tracks are live, and we all agree, the originals of the 9 are by far superior. Sony doesn't own the masters to those songs, but Universal does. There are a few Universal Collections, Like "Neil Diamond - The Collection" and "20th Century Masters, The Millennium Collection" that will complete the set. Unfortunately, those compilations don't have all the stuff this one does. Want it all, you'll have to buy both this one and one of the two I listed above, but it will certainly be worth it! If you do like the live stuff, I recommend the remaster of Hot August Night! ... Read more

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A year after his slickly produced recording debut launched him on a meteoric course to stardom, this combo CD/DVD set chronicles Michael Buble's crowd-pleasing live performances before amphitheater-sized crowds on a triumphant national tour. The audio portion kicks off with pair of new studio recordings again reinforce the 20-something Canadian heartthrob's 1950s-something artistic tack with mixed results: "Nice 'n' Easy" has a Sinatra-faithful jazzy swing; the overproduced, somnambulistic "Can't Help Falling in Love" evokes Perry Como more than Elvis. The remainder of the audio CD is comprised mostly of live versions of songs from Buble's debut, with his takes of "My Funny Valentine," "Fever," Van Morrison's "Moondance" and "Mack the Knife" again suggesting that Buble has an ear cocked wisely towards the Bobby Darin oeuvre. But with the notable exception of three elegant live-in-studio performances culled from Sessions@AOL, the live DVD does Buble's undeniabl! y charming stage presence a great disservice. Intercut awkwardly with offstage comments by Buble and his band, the balance of that disc suffers from an MTV-inspired, cut/dissolve-every-three-seconds style that's intended to focus one's attention, but does exactly the opposite. If sudden stardom virtually guarantees that Buble's impossibly smooth, expressive voice seldom ventures very far outside the Sinatra/Darin mold here, hopefully he'll leverage that fame towards greater artistic challenges in the near future. --Jerry McCulley ... Read more

Reviews (77)

Energetically regenerated Mel-oldies
Michael Bublé has this panache about him you HAVE to see to believe. So the DVD disc of this two disc set is like a window into this amazing performer's treasure trove of timing and turning an audience to putty in his hands.

You need to hear him sing only once to be completely wowed by his unique style. So the 8 tracks on the CD are split up into two new studio covers of "Nice 'n' Easy" and "Can't Help Falling in Love," and six tracks of recorded live performances: "My Funny Valentine", "Mack the Knife" (which is astoundingly well done), "You'll Never Know", and then live versions of those included on his debut CD: "Fever", "For Once In My Life", and "Moondance".

The DVD includes live performances from the United States, the U.K., and South Africa. The 12 tracks on the DVD include performance selections from his debut CD: "Come Fly With Me," "Sway," "How Do You Mend a Broken Heart," "Kissing a Fool," "For Once In My Life", "That's All", "Fever","Moondance" and my very favorite "The Way You Look Tonight". Others included on the DVD are "You'll Never Know", a breathtaking version of "My Funny Valentine" and "Mack the Knife".

Get this - 'cuz all that's old is affectionately Bublé and band renewed again.

A little disappointed
My wife and I saw Michael at Massey Hall in Toronto and thought it was the best concert we had ever seen. We were hoping that this DVD would try to give fans who have not seen him live, a chance to receive a similar experience. The problem was that the terrible fast editing job does not do anything to show how he performs or moves. In fact a lot of the video footage shown doesn't even sync with the audio. The backstage and other non concert footage was good, although he tried too hard to show that he was not a "goody-two-shoes".It was a kind of forced attempt to be edgy. I think his natural personality and talent are edgy enough. The CD was a great bonus, but why all the repeat of old released songs. I find I just skip to "my funny valentine", "you'll never know", "nice and easy" and "mack the knife". Sorry Michael I expected much more from you, the person I believe is the best male performer in the business today. People who compare Cincotti, Evans, Robbie Williams or even I dare say Harry Connick to Michael Buble....Puuhlease!.

2 1/2 stars for the dvd,3 1/2 stars for cd
I bought this album about 3 weeks ago,the first time i heard his "MICHAEL BUBLE"album,it was 1 year ago at hmv's store in singapore.....,and it was a terrific album. since then i was so anxious to watch his live in concert dvd and Finally, i found this cd dvd album.unfortunetly, the live concert on this dvd didn't really meet my expectation of what his concert supposed to be.too many interviews and it was like watching a video clip rather than a live concert but anyways u have to watch it for yourself, and u decide !! so 2 1/2 stars for the dvd and 3 1/2 stars for the cd

DON'T buy this CD package!
Michael Buble has recorded the theme for the new Spider-Man 2 movie and his version plays over the end credits but is not on the album.

However, Warner Music just issued the song as a single. But WAIT!...

Plans are in play to re-issue 'Come Fly With Me' as the current CD/DVD package BUT will include "Can't Help Falling In Love," "My Funny Valentine," "Spiderman" and a new mix of "Sway".

If you still want the CD single of 'Spider-Man', it features a Junkie XL remix. Junkie XL also did 5 remixes of the song 'Sway' on the same single.

A Must Buy For All Michael Buble Fans!
I have had Michael Buble in my DVD player and on my big screen TV for almost three months now, and each and every time I listen to Michael sing or watch him perform I gain a better understanding of how wonderfully talented this young man truly is.

Whether in my car, at work, or on my TV, I always get a feeling of satisfaction after enjoying his music. The DVD is very informative and the concert footage makes me feel like I am right in the middle of one of his concerts. With all the live performance and interview/backstage footage you really get to know what Michael Buble is all about. The CD includes some new material as well, and I especially like "Nice And Easy". With his gorgeous voice and unique style he will be a permanent fixture in the pop music scene for many years to come. This CD/DVD package is really marvelous and you can't go wrong buying it.

If you enjoy listening to crooners and Big Band Swing, I would also suggest Monte Procopio "Swingin' With Style" CD. His 13-piece band really swings and deserves a listen. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Kristin Chenoweth won a Tony for the supporting role of Sally Brown in the 1999 revival of You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown, made a memorably vampy Lily in the 1999 television film of Annie, and had an NBC sitcom created for her, Kristin! Now she grabs the spotlight in Let Yourself Go, her first solo recording. She mixes torchy standards ("My Funny Valentine," "How Long Has This Been Going On?") with Faith Prince-style sauciness ("If"), gets to show off her operatic and scat chops in the miniplay "The Girl in 14G," and shares a light duet with Jason Alexander (reviving his musical theater career post-Seinfeld). Perhaps her "Stranger Here Myself" isn't the weightiest you've ever heard, but this is an enjoyable album with a good deal of old-fashioned class, expertly accompanied by Rob Fisher and the Coffee Club Orchestra. --David Horiuchi ... Read more

Reviews (50)

I love this CD so much I have two copies
I adore Kristin Chenoweth. I didn't quite know who she was until her short-lived NBC sitcom. It is because of that show that I purchased this CD. I listen to it a portion of it at least once a day.

Kristin has such an amazing voice and she really shines on this album. When I first listened to the CD, I enjoyed the faster songs more than the slow ones. Then I liked the slow ones more. Now I just love it all.

"Let Yourself Go" is a fabulous song to wake yourself up and get moving. It has the pep and spirit that shines so well in Kristin's personality.

"If You Hadn't But You Did", at times my favorite song, starts out slow but gains speed quickly. In this song, you can hear Kristin's ability to get into a character using only her voice.

"How Long Has This Been Going On" and "My Funny Valentine" really show off Kristin's voice and her ability to hit those high notes and hold them.

"Hangin' Around With You", a duet with Seinfeld's Jason Alexander, is a pleasant surprise. It's fun to listen to Kristin and Jason argue, they both have fabulous comedic timing.

"The Girl In 14G" is amazing. Here, Kristin showcases the range of her voice and shows off her opera training.

In "I'll Tell the Man in the Street", "I'm A Stranger Here Myself", and "Nobody Else But Me", Kristin captures her characters so well.

"Nobody's Heart Belongs To Me/ Why Can't I?" at first seemed like a slow boring song to me, but I found myself loving it. This song just packs so much emotion and can sometimes bring a tear to my eye. I could listen to it all day long.

"Should I Be Sweet?" is hilarious. Kristin switches her mood back and forth so easily.

"Just An Ordinary Guy", "Goin' To the Dance With You", "On A Turquiose Cloud", and "You'll Never Know" continue the flow of the album, bouncing from sweet and slow to peppy to a song merely showcasing Kristin's abilities to a beautiful love song.

"Daddy" is a great song to end the CD with. It is so much fun to listen and sing along with. Kristin sings it so well, and I always find myself listening to it twice.

Overall, this CD is fabulous. In the booklet in the CD, Kristin tells John Lahr of the New Yorker, "The one thing I don't want to do is sing a song because it's pretty. I want to tell a story. I want people to be transformed in the song." With her first solo CD, Kristin achieves this goal and so much more.

I can not reccomend it enthusiastically enough. Buy this CD! :)

Wonderful Voice, Mixed Bag of Standards Chosen
Being a huge fan of Kristin Chenoweth since seeing her perform on the Tony Awards as "Sally" in You're A Good Man Charlie Brown and on Rosie O'Donnell's Christmas Special, I was very excited to go out and purchase her debut album. While her voice is elegant, humourous at times, emotional, and basically just all around, great.....the songs she chose do not showcase her talent fairly. With the exception of Let Yourself Go, If You Hadn't But You Did, My Funny Valentine, Hangin' Around With You (With Jason Alexander), and The Girl in 14G, the rest of the songs are just filler. I hope the next time around, her producers select a complete track listing of songs that really show what a national treasure KRISTIN is! I look forward to her sitcom this next week! Keep up the great work Ms. Chenoweth!!

Excellent CD!
Kristin Chenoweth, as Idina Menzel said in her speech at the 2004 Tonys, is the "grace and light upon that stage every night." And her debut CD "Let yourself go" certainly shows how talented and charismatic Kristin is. This CD utilizes Kristin's amazing versatility and range. She can go from singing ballads such as "My funny Valentine" to upbeat numbers ("Let yourself Go") to "The Girl in 14-G" that has her singing opera and jazz in one number. If you are a fan of show tunes or just good music, you should buy this CD! Kristin is a rare gem in musical theatre today but her talent doesn't stop there. She is also a classically trained opera singer and has proven herself able to sing jazz, country, and gospel as well. On top of that, she is a kind woman who doesn't take anything for granted.

Let Yourself Go into many different types of singing
Kristin Chenoweth has the perfect combo of comedy and ballads...I love it!

Kristin Chenoweth is perfect once again!!
What can I say? The amazing Kristin Chenoweth has done it again. This CD showcases her voice beautifully; she has quite a range. A really good thing about this CD is that all of the songs are not exactly the same, so Kristin has a chance to show off her comedic singing ("If", among others), as well as her more serious material ("Why Can't I?", etc.), both of which she does extremely well. This should be a must-buy for any Chenoweth, music, or musical theatre fan anywhere! Kristin Chenoweth never ceases to amaze me, and I'm sure you will feel the same way after you listen to this fabulous CD. ... Read more

Amazon.com

For a long time, Stephen Sondheim's 1974 compact offering The Frogs was known for two things. It was originally staged in Yale's swimming pool with a chorus that included Sigourney Weaver and Mery