Reviews (18)

Finally, The Queen Of UK Soul is on Amazon!
For those of you who keep up with my reviews, you may have known me to preach about this sista out of England and her amazing vocal talent. Julie Dexter is that one artist that I probably would follow as long as she has a musical career. Me and this CD go back to early 99 when the title was Dexterity. I've met the whole team at past Chocolate Soul events and her stage show is as good (if not better)as this CD. Like N'Dambi, I've seen her perform around Atlanta 3 times and every show was a better treat than the next. Chocolate Soul Entertainment played a big part of bringing her soulful sound to the US and I give much props to them for that.

This EP/CD only has 7 tracks (my CD had 6) but without a question IT IS THE MOST PLAYED CD I HAVE. There is nothing in your collection like it ,believe that!! She delivers pure jazz, raw soul, the illest percussion and the best female vocals I've heard in a while coming from the UK. She made her new home here in Atlanta to work on her new full length CD. I will try to be the first in line for that. LISTEN PEOPLE, out of all of the CD's I've written about, This is THE ONE I recommend highly. My favorite track on this one is "Sweet Melodies" followed up by "What Do I do?", "Ketch A Vibe" and "Burnin". She has another track thats out called "Be" but it's not featured on this EP. Yall not hearing me! I even wrote her to ask that she put it on Amazon so that I could spread the word about her talent. I've had this CD for about 2 years and if someone was to threaten me for this CD or lose an arm..............all I need is one arm to push play button.

oNe

Overseas, She's The Queen Of U.K. Soul
Finally, The Queen Of UK Soul ...

For those of you who keep up with my reviews, you may have known me to preach about this sista out of England and her amazing vocal talent. Julie Dexter is that one artist that I probably would follow as long as she has a mucical career. Me and this CD go back to early 99 when the title was Dexterity, which is also the name of her new CD. I've met the whole team at past Chocolate Soul events and her stage show is as good (if not better)as this CD. Like N'Dambi, I've seen her perform around Atlanta 3 times and every show was a better treat than the next.

This EP/CD only has 7 tracks (my CD had 6) but without a question IT IS THE MOST PLAYED CD I HAVE. There is nothing in your collection like it ,believe that!! She delivers pure jazz, raw soul, the illest percussion and the best female vocals I've heard in a while coming from the UK. She made her new home here in Atlanta to work on her new full length CD. I will try to be the first in line for that when it releases. LISTEN PEOPLE, out of all of the CD's I've written about, This is THE ONE I recommend highly. Yall not hearing me! ... I've had this CD for about 2 years and if someone was to threaten me for this CD or lose an arm.............. all I need is one arm to push play button on my CD player. My gems are" "What Do I Do", "Ketcha Vibe", "Burning" and "Sweet Melodies"...

Burning....
Julie Dexter's Peace Of Mind is an excellent EP. Seven Songs deep there is no room for filler here. Now I don't know too much of the background on her and pretty much bought the album on a whim but it was a great decision. There's something other-worldly about Miss Julie Dexter. Her songs are filled with that different kind of soul and originality. It's definitely music to play when you are chilling with your significant other...ya know nothing to aggressive but not sleep inducing either. If you want some real soul to digest than I definitely suggest this EP. No need to name the best songs...they are all great. Invest today in this hidden goldmine.

It's definitely a 5 star CD!!!
Now this is a real surprise! I was recommended her CD by Amazon and it completely blew me away! Even though it's only around 20 something minutes in length, all of the songs are quality and beautiful. There's really nothing you can say bad about the songs that are on here. "Peace of Mind" is an absolute gem. "Ketch a Vibe" and "Burning" are masterpieces as well. All of the songs are nice and Jazzy and a little bit of Reggae flavor can be heard on 2 of the tracks. If you like R&B, there is no reason this CD shouldn't be in your collection. One of the reviewers said because of it's length, they wouldn't give it 5 stars. However, when a CD full of great songs come along like this, you have to call it like you see it. ... This is a reason to always take a look at what Amazon recommends for you!

Pleasantly surprised
Sometimes the reviews in Amazon are better than the music. I was very pleased that I took a chance on this EP. I would never have bought this unless Amazon had suggested it.Well, it was great. Now we want a full album! ... Read more

Album Description

Chanteuse, cabaret star, and cause celebre, Josephine Baker (1906-1975) was born in St. Louis and made famous in Paris, while still in her teens. Called "the Most Beautiful of Panthers," she captivated audiences with performances that were both humorous and deductive. Remastered from original recordings. the songs showcase Josephine in all her glory. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Great singing, great sound
This CD shows Josephine's talents at their best, she must of had some kind of live show! I don't know if this is the absolute best collection of her sides, but I find the sound astounding for the age of the recordings (1931-37). Arkadia chansons seems like a sure bet label, based on my samplings. ... Read more

Album Description

UK budget-price box-set with 92 tracks and a 32 pageillustrated booklet. Standard jewel cases housed in aslipcase. 2001. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Good intro to the era called the Roaring Twenties
The selections and remastering are good. Most of the selections are from the electric recording era, (after 1925) which means some better sound quality. My only question is why not a two CD set with 20 selections per disc, instead of four discs with 10 selections each?

The Roaring Twenties (Box Set)
We purchased this set to play in our antique store, and it has been getting rave reviews from employees and customers. We recommend this to anyone with an interest in the early twentieth century lifestyle and music, it is a wonderful compendium of songs and performers. Well worth the money. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Noel Coward and Friends
This CD contains 22 comtemporary recordings, some as old as 1924, and most featuring the Master himself. Although the quality on some tracks was scratchy, it is a wonder that they have survived at all. Most facinating to hear the style of the times compared to modern interpretations you may know. It's a real tease to want to hear more from the shows! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

You gotta have heart !
If you have never heard Peggy Lee this album is a great start. I have listend to her for a long time,but this to me is her the best overview & the range of songs in which she sang. It's electric & classy. Peggy Lee is indeed still the woman who has the fever !

Great
Im in a competition dane team fever is one of our dances! every time we do it the audiande and the judges start to bounce ... Read more

Album Description

Reissue of 1993 tribute to Edith Piaf by the legendaryFrench vocalist. Copy controlled. Capitol. 2003. ... Read more

Album Description

This Brilliant collection of classic and period pieces, sung by France's greatest and most legendary stars of the 1940s, brings together the best and most representative of the songs sung by the French to lift up their spirits during the dark days of World War II. Superbly remastered for audio enhancement. ... Read more

Reviews (12)

Improve Your Love Life, Or Johnny Rotten's Favorite Singer
A true story: One afternoon, many years ago, several acquaintances were discussing dating stratagems. Each offered their nominee for best "make-out music." Some of the nominations were a bit odd (The Modern Lovers' first album? Right - if you're trying to land Psycho Girlfriend), when one certified 1977 punk offered up "Dancing on the Ceiling" by Jeri Southern.

Huh?

"Uh, wasn't she some 1950s chick singer?"

We all laughed Mr. Mohawk's suggestion...and then I spent the next 15 years looking for that bloomin' album. Never did find it.

Believe all the reviews that say this is a wonderful disk. Southern was much more than "a chick singer" - she was an extraordinary musician as the small group selections on which she plays piano brilliantly attest.

Do not believe the reviews that say this music is easily available. Southern's music goes in and out of catalog with distressing frequency, and of the disks that I have come across this one is miles away the best. Get it while you can. You won't be disappointed.

And, yes, it will improve your love life.

Jeri Revisited
When first I was introduced to the voice of Jeri Southern she had long since retired; and that introduction came via an album produced by Rod McKuen in the mid-1970s, a reissue of some Decca recordings called You Better Go Now. That led to seeking her original albums in old Record shops. It was something akin to an archeological excavation, coming upon some of those tattered albums with marvellous period covers. Scratchy, occasionally warped, but it mattered not a bit: Jeri Southern had become something of a cult just then. That smoky voice( reminiscent of Nat Cole, it seemed then) was utterly captivating.

To be perfectly honest, it never occured to me that Jeri Southern's music would find a new audience on Compact Disc, nor indeed that any recording company would bother with a singer so apparently obscure. So it was a most pleasant surprise to discover this compilation of the Decca Years. It was produced by Kathryn King, who is Jeri Southern's daughter and who contributed to the liner notes with a fascinating memoir of her mother. Essays by Orrin Keepnews and Gene Lees enrich one's understanding of this distinctive singer.
The songs are indeed the best of the best, so if there is just one Jeri Southern album to take to that desert island, this is it.

What a voice!
Jeri Southern's era, the 40's and 50's, is not usually to my tase. I have few fond memories of the fifties. But once I discovered this album on Rhapsody, I couldn't get her voice out of my head. She has a sophisticated technique, a wonderful jazz voice and sings with absolute sincerity--the art that conceals art. The prior reviews on Amazon say it all. Get this CD!

I've Got Her Under My Skin
She insinuates. Very vulnerable singer who has keyboard chops. Demands repeat and more repeat. Peggy Lee loved her, and so do I.

My 2nd favorite singer of all time
This is one of the few items that my family doesn't mind when I play it in the car. (My taste seems to be too old for them. My mother has even ask for a copy.)
Jeri is one of the best kept secrets in music of the twentieth century. Am I overrating her? No. She is magnificent. Listen to her version of "When I Fall in Love", and you'll see the hidden talent that I am talking about. She has a soft vulnerable voice, that is completely hers. She also wonderfully defies this image with "An Occassional Man." As well, she is a fine songwriter "I Don't Know Where to Turn", seems like it was written by a professional. Overall 5 out of 5. ... Read more

Album Description

Canadian edition of the critically acclaimed & versatilevocalist's 2003 album. Universal/Alert. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

With Shade, Holly Has Another Winner
If you are not already a Holly Cole fan, but enjoy jazz, her latest album, "Shade", may be a good way to introduce yourself to her special artistry. If you are a fan, you will smile at her continued creativity. An eclectic but effective mix of songs unified by the common theme of having something to do with summer, the album starts off with an almost "smooth-jazz""-like mechanical-sounding percussion sequence that had me dreading what was to follow. But I listened beyond that intro and was intrigued by the blend of styles and influences she acknowledges in the instrumental accompaniments, while maintaining her own distinct imprint on the vocals. Her interpretations sound unlike any other you've heard of the same song, so some of them might take some getting used to if you are familiar with other more familiar covers. But after a couple of "listens", her versions not only sound original, they sound "right". This album is a real treat for any season! ... Read more

Amazon.com

A master of American popular song, Michael Feinstein turns to children's music for Pure Imagination and the result should please children and adults alike. The album includes story songs ("Ferdinand the Bull") and "message" songs ("Aren't You Glad You're You"), as well as favorites from films, such as the title track (from Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory) and a medley from Disney's Alice in Wonderland.This album is about what you'd expect from Feinstein, including irrepressible cheer, pleasant singing (if a little strained toward the top of his range), a guest appearance from Rosemary Clooney, and impeccable song selection. --David Horiuchi ... Read more

Reviews (15)

PURE IMAGINATION is pure satisfaction.
These whimsical songs are perfectly performed by this most-gifted artist. He plays with the words of the stories in a magical way and creates a delight for the ears and senses. I especially like his rendition of FERDINAND THE BULL. It brings to life the bullfight and this humble animal with his tale of woe. The other songs are a joy, also, to hear over and over again. More power to Michael Feinstein and his creative ability not only in writing music but in interpreting other's stories in songs. He is a marvel.

Gorgeous Children's Music For Us Grown Up Kids.
I have to confess to shedding a few tears over this album, especially with the title and opening song Pure Imagination. As I grow older I find it harder and harder to feel the pluck of heartstrings, but Michael Feinstein does it with his rendition of the Anthony Newley classic. He takes me back to an innocent time with his infectious joy in this music. You can hear the smile on his face, hear the love he feels for the melody and lyrics. Most of the songs are happy and silly, but curiously there is one that every parent should listen to and take to heart. If you have heard this album, you'll know the song: Because We're Kids, from that amazing and surrealist movie The 5000 Fingers of Dr. T (From which the crazy Dressing Song also came.) This album is a true gem for all ages.

A Hot Fudge Sundae for the Senses
What a charming and magical interpretation of song. I have never heard such wonderful and unique stylings. My favorites are "The Teddy Bears' Picnic" and "The Mole People." Anyone who is young or "young at heart" will adore this collection.

Perfect for "kids" of all ages!
My kids and I discovered this CD a few years ago and loved it. The songs are great, my kids were amazed that I knew the words to lots of these "new" songs and they loved the silliness of many of them. Best of all, it is a CD that kids can listen to over and over and over again without driving their parents nut!

PURE IMAGINATION is pure satisfaction!
These whimsical songs are perfectly performed by this most-gifted artist. He plays with the words of the stories in a magical way and creates a delight for the ears and senses. I especially like his rendition of FERDINAND THE BULL. It brings to life the bullfight and this humble animal with his tale of woe. The other songs are a joy, also, to hear over and over again. More power to Michael Feinstein and his creative ability not only in writing music but in interpreting other's stories in songs. He is a marvel. ... Read more

Album Description

This magnificent 4 CD set contains 100 of Peggy Lee's 180singles, meticulously remixed and remastered. The 72 pagebooklet includes a 15,000 word biography. EMI. 2002. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

PEGGY LEE: Sexier Vocalist Than Madonna
The majority of the recordings on "The Singles Collection" were recorded/issued and were huge hits way before my time. As I listen to MISS PEGGY LEE throughout this Box, her vocal sex appeal is way too hard to ignore and dismiss...the woman sung with a simmering and blistering sexiness, it's her vocal trademark amongst many other singer's exceptional attributes - regardless of how subtle she may have consciously maintained her efforts to not offend with the times she lived in, Miss Lee was gifted with a MONUMENTAL vocal instrument that could melt solid gold! Peggy Lee, by far, is a sincere musical artist, beyond Madonna's $$$ ambitions, which by the way, fall flat: Madonna is no singer, yet, she quietly molded herself after the ultimate best: Peggy Lee! But, back to PEGGY. This woman was gifted with a vocal range most singers would envy. Simply put, PEGGY LEE is one of a handful of irresistable female vocalists music fans can not ignore once exposed to her high quality recordings. My first encounter with Peggy Lee was, and will forever be imprinted in my musical & visual mind, on a variety show back in 1969 when I was a child(Carol Burnett Show?) and she was singing her modern day trademark classic(one of many!) "Is That All There Is?". I didn't know who the hell this woman was, but, she left a huge musical impression on me! I never bought that "45", but, in the early 1980's while rummaging through a resale shop of classic record Lps, I came upon PEGGY LEE's "IS THAT ALL THERE IS" album: no questions asked, I bought it...my reaction upon listening: TOTALLY STUNNED!!! Fast forward to early 2004...saw two Peggy Lee Box Sets: "THE SINGLES COLLECTION" & "MISS PEGGY LEE"..no hesitation, I am a proud owner of her two box sets and am looking for more! Before my time, but, PEGGY LEE ROCKS!!!

A Peggy Lee Treasure-trove!
A MUST for all true-blue Peggy fans. A few hits & tons of rare
sides, some unheard since the original releases. Beautifully designed & annotated, obviously a labor of love!

The Fabulous Miss Lee
This collection is a wonderful addition to all the other records and disc that I have by Peggy Lee. I'm ready for 4 more disc if they will only release them. I know that there are many many fans who feel the same as I do.

Over thirty years of Peggy¿s sensational music
This set is one of the best-presented boxed sets I've come across. There are extensive notes, a discography, pictures of LP sleeves and other pictures too. The set opens like a hardback book, with the CD's on the inside of the front and back covers. The music is dominated by her years on Capitol (especially the 1940's), but begins with three tracks from her Benny Goodman days, followed by two with Bob Crosby. What can a woman do? (track 6 on CD 1) is the first time we hear Peggy's own music, but the rest of that CD and the other three CD's concentrate entirely on her studio singles, up to Some cats know (1975), her last new single. Senza fine, a Japanese single in 2001 that was originally recorded in 1964, plus five studio out-takes, including false starts and rehearsals, complete the set.

Even on 4 CD's, it is not possible to include all Peggy's singles, but it is clear that a serious effort has been made to include singles which had not been previously available on CD - there are almost fifty of them, plus one song, Moments like this, which was going to be a single but was never released. Live and album versions of the song have been previously released, but the original single version is available here for the first time ever.

Of the previously released material, the most obvious omission is Riders in the sky, which was an American number two hit for Peggy in 1949, but this is readily available on other compilations. All the tracks that are absolutely essential - Manana, The folks who live on the hill, Fever and Is that all there is? - are included. Black coffee was never released as a single, so does not qualify.

This is a cleverly compiled set which is designed to include as much as possible for Peggy's committed fans who have a lot of her CD's already (I have over 20), while making it an attractive purchase for somebody who just wants one big collection of Peggy's music.

A Sublime Release of Miss Peggy Lee!
This is one of the best boxed sets I've ever purchased. With it's tremendous photos, information (a complete discography), and top-notch remastering, combined with extremely rare tracks, you cannot go wrong.

While I have been extremely grateful to EMI in England for issuing Miss Lee's albums, intact, with their twofer series, I am equally delighted to see her SINGLES being given the treatment they deserve. When you consider that almost HALF of this box set featured singles NEVER heard until now, that is a real testament to the thought behind this release. From the start with Benny Goodman, to the end, the sound has never been better, and I have ALL of Peggy Lee's releases.

To borrow from the liner notes, this is not a complete singles, of all labels, as that would be around TEN CDs!! That wouldn't phase me, but probably would others. So this set concentrates on the hard to find, or impossible, recordings released as singles. What a tremendous treat, so much better than her "Miss Peggy Lee" box set. This set is chronological, which I love. You can hear her voice maturing with each track, and there are way too many standouts to even mention here. The beautiful photos, liner notes, and SOUND, make this a must have for all the fans of Miss Peggy Lee!! GRAB IT!! ... Read more

Album Description

Japanese reissue of 1964 album is packaged in a miniature LP sleeve & scheduled to include six bonus tracks. Philips. 2004. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Monica's best jazz-record!
Today the sad message headlined Swedish newspapers. Monica Z died yesterday in a fire-accident. Monica regarded "Walz for Debby" the best album in her career. She was of course right. This recordis sublime, magnificent and deeply moving. Monica will always be in our hearts! ... Read more

Reviews (17)

Another elegant posterity recording of a songwriter's oeuvre
This is another of Michael Feinstein's "songbook" album but this time, its dedicated to the songwriting genius of Jimmy Webb (remember "MacArthur Park" as sung memorably by Richard Harris and disco-fied by Donna Summer?). The arrangements of the songs were a bit one-note, but as was explained in the liner notes, it was intended that way inorder not to conform to a formula that it should have uptempo numbers interpersed with the slower ballads. I have almost all of Feinstein albums and I must say that this is quite a departure for this New York cabaret singer and pianist because of the "contemporary" material. Feinstein is a great interpreter of the American Popular Song material where he devoted albums and mined the genius of Jule Styne, the Gershwins, Jerry Herman, Hugh Martin and Irving Berlin. The delight is hearing unknown gems from the unproduced musicals of Webb along with his famous ones like "Up Up and Away", "The Moon is a Harsh Mistress" and "Didn't We". While its heresy to call this a makeout album this side of Liza Minnelli's "Gently", this CD is really a great companion for rainy days where one stays indoors curled in a couch with hot chocolate and muffins and where basking in the warmth of Feinstein's glorious vocals will transport you to the high heavens.

Feinstein and Webb knock you out with a "feather"
When I first heard about this project, it didn't seem to make sense - the principals seemed decades removed; Feinstein firmly rooted in the Great American Songbook, and Webb so much a part of the 60's and 70's. When I finally heard the CD, I was hooked from the first track - the closing part of "MacArthur Park," sung as a statement of determination and purpose that sets up the album's song arc of romantic love. Surprises abound here - especially the samba setting for "Up Up And Away." Suffice it to say that the familiar songs are reinvented anew, and the new songs are as memorable as any of Webb's past hits. "Belmont Avenue," from an upcoming musical based on "Bronx Tale," is a particular stunner.

Webb's songs often have a cinematic sweep to them and Feinstein rises to the occassion, fully conveying the emotional range of Webb's lyrics. Webb plays piano throughout the album, and the orchestral arrangements by Alan Broadbent and Matt Catingub are perfectly suited to these wonderful songs.

I had the pleasure of seeing these two perform most of this CD and more at the Cinegrill this month. If they come anywhere near you, make a dash for tickets...it's an unforgettable evening of great stories and songs. Until that day, buy this CD immediately and enjoy the best work that either performer has done to date.

Toooo Sloooooow....
I agree with the opinion that this was soooo slow. I too found myself skipping through track after track searching for something better. I definitely enjoy other works much more. I did think that perhaps my baby might like to listen to is as a lullaby CD at night.

Black velvet and a warm cozy fire.....
For years, I thought of Michael Feinstein simply as a piano player who sang, but oh, how wrong am I! When I saw him on tv recently singing "Only One Life" I couldn't believe my ears. I ran to Amazon and bought this CD. Now I'm buying another one to keep in my car. I can't get his voice out of my head. I'm telling all my friends about this CD. He is smooth and warm and cozy and he'll warm your insides and make you fall in love all over again. He reaches notes with an inner depth that oozes sex appeal and leaves you satisfied.
Michael Feinstein and Jimmy Webb is a very appealing coupling for my ears and my soul.

What Happened to the Michael I know and love?
I have seen Michael in concert twice and have almost all of his other CDs but I have to say I was truly disappointed with this one. I turned it on in the car in aniticpation of listening to some sweet sounds as I drove. But by the third song I had had enough. I found myself skipping through track after track trying to find a song that resembled the old Michael and I couldn't find one. I think the tempo of the songs were dreadfully slow. If the songs had been any slower, I would have fallen asleep at the wheel. I was nodding to stay awake as it was. Definitely not a CD you want to listen to when you have to stay alert.

I can only surmise that the blame has to be put on the horrid song selections. I just don't think they are suited to his voice and music style. It is just not quite what I am used to from Michael. I love him when he sings Gershwin but I am less than thrilled with this effort. This is one Feinstein CD that will probably never get played again. I had to rush home and put in an old Feinstein Gershwin CD just to get the tunes of this CD out of my head. Sorry Michael, I still love you though. Here's hoping for your next CD. ... Read more

Album Details

Compilation of Brel's Greatest Hits Released on Double CD.34 Songs Including 'Jojo', 'Les Flamandes', 'ne Me Quitte Pas', 'Amsterdam'and Much More. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Must have it!
This is what you get, if you wish to learn about Brel! This is one of the best collections there are available, with Brel's classics such as breath-taking Amsterdam, La chanson des vieux amants - absolutely one of the most beautiful and yet realistic songs in the world -, La Fanette, Les bourgeois, Quand on n'a que l'amour... Unfortunately Ne me quitte pas is not the best known nor the best version, in my opinion. But the song is beautiful in any way he sings it. However, if you want to hear the most powerful and touching version of it, it's on the live recording made in Olympia 1961.

This album covers some of the highlights of Brel's music. Songs like Les bergers, Une ile and Vesoul are more seldom heard, but imaginative and magical, like his best songs are. Also included there are several songs from his last album, like Vieillir, Jojo and Orly, which sounds remarkably like an entire play, where Brel is the narrator and the audience, feeling everything that goes on between an unknown couple in Orly - with the most beautiful music around him, sometimes like a whisper, sometimes like thunder. His voice had more soul and humanity than any other singer's.

What is missing is some of his earlier recordings from the 50's. Songs like Seul, La mort and La tendresse would have given an even better insight to his themes - loneliness, mortality and love, of which he (supposedly) said: "I'd rather not use the word. Maybe tenderness is a better one." I don't remember the actual quote, but the meaning was: people use 'love' in all the wrong ways, making it mean things, that have nothing to do with love. They can say: "I know this hurts, but I'm doing it because I love you." "I want to own you because I love you." But try using "...because I want to be tender to you." Makes one doubt the real motives, huh?

Anyway, if you don't care much of his themes or ideas, there are some of the most beautiful - and painful - love songs ever written. La Fanette, Ne me quitte pas, La chanson des vieux amants - he did them, sang them and nobody has done them better since then.

Les Marquises
In 1975 Brel followed the earlier example of Paul Gauguin and settled at Atuona on the island of Hiva Oa in the remote Marquesas Islands group of French Polynesia in the South Pacific. Three years later Brel passed away and was buried in the town cemetery a few steps from Gauguin. Brel's 1977 song "Les Marquises" included on this album has become almost an anthem of the island: "Veux-tu que je te dise gemir n'est pas de mis, Aux Marquises". Listener take care, many have been drawn on pilgrimages to the legendary South Seas by the haunting sounds of this little masterpiece.

Power and passion
The only thing missing from this collection of classic songs are some of the Dutch versions. The passionate late 60's are well reflected and give a real feel of the social environment at that time. This without sounding outdated. For a younger listener raised on poppy songs, Brel is a bit of an acquired taste however. ... Read more

Album Description

UK reissue combines two of the jazz vocalist's albums onone CD, 'Pass Me By' (1964) & 'Big Spender' (1966), both of which are out of print domestically. 2001. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Peggy In The Beatle-Mania Era
Peggy Lee was a true talent who had enjoyed long and very successful associations with two major labels (Decca and Capitol). But by the time these two albums were issued in the mid-sixties, Peggy, like so many of her mainstream contempararies, found herself caught in the backwash of Beatle-Mania. It was a time of transition for the major labels, whose focus and direction had been irrevocably altered by the British Invasion and emergence of baby boomers as the primary marketing segment. As was the case with her contemporaries, Peggy's artistic heritage and style was not perceived to mesh well (at least in the eyes of record company executives) with this new marketing environment. That perception often resulted in attempts by producers to "update" their artists' images by insisting on the inclusion of material which, although contemporary, was not necessarily appropriate. Artistry was irrelevant. The main idea was to create an album that would "sell". Stan Kenton's woeful interpretation of the music from the Broadway show "Hair" (long and deservedly out-of-print) is a prime example. Anyone who has ever heard that album will know what I am talking about. The two albums included in this CD are emblematic of the changes taking place in the record biz, and their effect on mainstream artists such as Peggy Lee. The obligatory "contemporary pop" tunes are sprinkled here and there. Peggy does a valiant job with pop ditties such as "Hard Days Night". But it is in the traditional and quasi-tradtional material, especially the show tunes, where she truly shines. These are what make this CD more than worth the price of admission. For those too young or too cluless to remember, the sixties where not only about The Beatles and the emergence of Hard Rock. A lot of great, if faintly remembered, material was written in the sixties as well. "Watch What Happens", "Come Back To Me", "You've Got Possibilities", "I Must Know" (written by Neal "Batman" Hefti) to name four. Peggy's "Big Spender" has always been, to my mind, THE definitive rendition of Sy Coleman's great compositon for the Broadway Show "Sweet Charity". And it is (to my mind, at least) the centerpiece of this CD. Peggy is at her seductive vampish best, and the soaring big band arrangement by Dave Grusin provides a perfect backdrop. Forget the Beatles -- THIS was sixties music at its BEST. Had the entire CD contained material like this, it would rate TEN stars. One humorous footnote: The song "Bewitched" is attributed to Rogers and Hart in the updated liner notes. It is, in fact, the theme song from the sixties television series that starred Elizabeth Montgomery. I believe the editor has this song confused with "Bewitched, Bothered, and Bewildered", which was in fact written by Rogers and Hart. Guess the editor was too young (or too clueless??) to remember.

More uptempo than usual for Peggy
These two albums from the sixties, both produced by David Cavanaugh, show Peggy at the very peak of her career. Here, you will find Peggy singing songs from the Great American Songbook, together with more contemporary material, such as the Beatles' A hard day's night. Peggy clearly put a lot of thought into this track, to put her own distinctive identity on the song without changing it's character.

Another track that I particularly like is Big spender. To my ears, Peggy's version is far superior to the nore famous version by Shirley Bassey. Peggy shows her determination to get her man without sounding threatening in the way that Shirley does.

There is a great mix of songs here - it's generally more uptempo than some of Peggy's albums. If you are used to hearing Peggy singing lots of soft, romantic songs, you might be pleasantly surprised by this twofer. I love Peggy singing those songs, but there are plenty of other albums full of them.

This twofer demonstrates that Peggy was more versatile than some would have you believe. And it's every bit as good as the romantic stuff - just different. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Adventurous!
I saw Holly on Canadian TV and had to get this CD as soon as I found it. She and her trio partners breathe new life into songs you'd never expect to be so rich. After all, the dark, sinister song that begins this album was originally from Disney's saccharine "Jungle Book" movie, and "If I Were A Bell" rocks a whole lot harder than your local playhouse production of "Guys & Dolls".

Holly ROCKS!
Holly Cole and Brian Evans...Canada's CROONERS!

Right on! Great album

too long and too boring
Ok this cd had nicely written songs, but they just didn't sound full. They were too long, too boring...not enought pep to them! This cd was so boring it made me want to fall asleep! Your best bet is Holly's latest stuff...a huge improvement over this boring crap!

This CD is fantastic!!!!!
I've been a Holly fan for about a year now, and I love this CD. Her voice is amazing. Everything to the swinging "If I Were a Bell" To the beautiful, and romantic "I'll Be Seeing You" is stupendous. This is an excellent recording.

One of the most exciting albums I have listened to.
I first heard of Holly Cole on a CBC special about her. I was in the other room and drawn into the family room. Once I heard her I was hookded. From there I went on a crusade to find her tapes.

After much looking, I found this one and I was not disappointed. I have played it over and over.

Now that I have bought a CD player, this is one of the recordings that I will search for.

This alblum, along with her others is just wonderful. She is truley an undiscovered talent here in the US. ... Read more

Amazon.com

This entertaining live show from New York's Rainbow & Stars club in 1995 joins singing sisters Ann Hampton Callaway and Liz Callaway. The former is a suave jazz singer with a darker tone and sensational versatility; the latter is a clear-as-a-bell soprano best known for her late-'90s stint as Broadway's Grizabella in Cats. The album is sort of a musical autobiography, as the sisters sing together as well as trace their separate artistic developments through their choices of solo numbers. Ann demonstrates her cabaret repertoire with Nancy Ford and Gretchen Cryer's heartbreaker "Old Friend," while Liz displays her Broadway background with Stephen Schwartz's glorious "Meadowlark" and Frank Loesser's tender "My Heart Is So Full of You." The two also playfully spar with snappy patter and humorous duets, the most notable being "The Huge Medley," which strings together bits from over a dozen female duets, and the theme song from TV's The Nanny, which Ann wrote and the sisters recorded for the opening credits. A terrific recording.--David Horiuchi ... Read more

Reviews (12)

Never Such Devoted Sisters
I listened to Liz Callaway's album The Story Goes On, also on here, in a store and wondered where I had heard her voice. I remembered hearing her as the singing voice of Anastacia in the animated musical and liked her voice then. I fell in love with her voice and purchased that cd. I checked on Amazon for other recordings and saw this one so I ordered it. I loved it. The best song by Ann Hampton Callaway is My Buddy, My Old Friend. It is sure to make you cry and I play it over and over. I already had Liz Callaway's album and one of her songs is on this album as well as The Story Goes On, "Meadowlark" which she does with such a clear voice and this is a great arrangement of the song. I am partial to Ann's voice although they blend well together and as I stated earlier, "My Buddy... is a 3 hankee weeper song with a gorgeous piano and vocal arrangement. The duets including "The Nanny" and "Friendship" are fun to listen to. I was a big fan of The Nanny show so I enjoyed hearing that again and remember Friendship mostly from I Love Lucy episode. I enjoy the banter between the two sisters with cracks on age and who has won the most awards and The Big Medley is fun and has great vocals as well. It has many familiar songs from Broadway and elsewhere including Enough is Enough( Barbra Streisand and Donna Summer, Sisters from White Christmas, Happy Days are Here Again/Get Happy that Barbra Streisand and Judy Garland sang. I don't know what else to say to sell you on this album. This album and Liz Callaway's solo are probably two of the best cds I ever owned and I own hundreds so that is saying a lot. I am sure you won't be disappointed in this cd!

A funny, touching, and rewarding Cabaret recording!!!
This is a live recording of a great cabaret show starring sisters Liz and Ann Hampton Callaway. Liz is the best Broadway singer in NYC and Ann is the top cabaret singer currently. This album is a must for anyone who wants to laugh and enjoy great vocals from two very talented performers.

Sisters Are Doin' It For Themselves...
Ann Hampton and Liz Callaway have been well-known by Broadway and Cabaret afficionados for years. This CD, recorded live at the Rainbow & Stars in 1995 is a wonderful showcase for older sister Ann's deep jazz-tinged crooning and younger sister Liz's clear-bell Broadway soprano. Together or apart, their singing is definitely top notch.

Highlights are "The Huge Medley Parts 1 & 2" where the sisters go through a medley of every song that was recommended them by friends and colleagues who knew they were doing a show together. It's hilarious!

Also, their "jealousy-tinged" version of "Friendship" is good for several laughs at the expense of sibling-rivalry and "The Nanny Named Fran" is also an example of how even a sitcom theme can sound classy if approached with creativity and elan.

However, the CD has a few clunkers and they mostly occur when the sisters sing solo. While Ann Hampton does wonders with a medley of "My Buddy" and "Old Friend", she loses my interest with "Rhythm in My Nursery Rhymes". It's less about her scat singing (which is quite good), and more about the dullness of the song itself. Little sis Liz fares no better with the tepid Frank Loesser tune "My Heart is So Full of You", although she does ignite some sparks with her take on Stephen Schwartz's "Meadowlark".

Suprisingly, what would seem to be the most suitable duet on the album, Stephen Sondheim's "Our Time" (from the wonderfully difficult show MERRILY WE ROLL ALONG) sounds tired and lackluster. But the sisters soon rebound with a brilliant English version (a capella no less!) of Michel Legrand's "You Must Believe In Spring", from Jacques Demy's wonderful film LES DESMOISELLES DE ROCHEFORT.

Overall, a great CD, that despite a few low points, is still pretty fun to listen to and an important addition to any musical theatre fan's collection.

A Must-Have for any self-respecting theatre-goer!
Ann and Liz really shine on this one. Their mix of Broadway and jazz styles, along with their great senses of humor, make this one of my all-time favorite cd's. Sorry Alice & Emily, these "real" sisters have you beat!

Flat Out Fabulous!
While in London a few years back, my partner and I stumbled upon this "sister-act" at The Donmar Wharehouse. Based on a little friendly review from former Caberet, Theater and Cinema Diva, Liza Minnelli posted near the marquee we checked the show out. Well let me tell you that this Sister Act is over the top, flat out FABULOUS! The best part, it translates wonderfully on CD to you, the listener at home. If caberet is your thing and you enjoy a little shmaltz to go along with some amazingly talented voices pick up Sibling Revelry and enjoy, enjoy, enjoy! ... Read more