Amazon.com essential recording

The voice of Edith Piaf carries with it perhaps more national identity than that of any other recorded artist in the world. Tiny, frail, and tragic in her life, Piaf brought French identity to the rest of the world in a way that was understandable to all. Known as "the Little Sparrow" in her country, her voice was strong, bold, and passionate, even as she grew more infirm. The archetypical torch singer, she had massive popular success with songs like "Milord," "Non, Je Ne Regrette Rien," and "La Vie, L'Amour," included here with 18 other classics. While this is a great compilation of some of her best material, the complete lack of enclosed notes or biographical material may frustrate those not familiar with her fascinating career. However, the work of one of the most original songbirds of all time speaks loud and clear for itself. --Derek Rath ... Read more

Reviews (33)

" Non, Je Ne Regrette Rien "
For anyone that has perused my web site here on Amazon they are probably more than aware of my love for French culture. I'm a closeted Francophile...and proud of it! The films,wine,fashion and most of all the music of France is something I have always dearly loved. While being Irish (in origin only) I dearly love the French culture! That being said reviewing a disc by the amazing Edith Piaf is simply a "labor of love".

Now, to be completely honest I did not exactly warm up to this cd upon first hearing it. The sound is rather dated and I thought Ms. Piaf's voice, while indeed strong, was not exactly what I was used to when listening to female vocalists. I thought it sounded rather shrill and, at times, even off key. Mon Dieu!! What was I to do...my expectations were so high that I truly expected "magic" to come pouring out of my speakers! Well, as with anything else that is truly worthwhile, I decided to stay with Ms. Piaf and give her, at least, the respect she deserves by listening a few more times. Obviously, my patience has more than paid off....if only because I can now appreciate the immense talent that she possessed.While sounding unlike any other vocalist that I had previously known she is able to contain more "raw emotion" in one song than most vocalist can emote in an entire cd!

Now although I consider myself a Francophile my command of the French language is, how to say,just slightly appropriate enough to order a bottle of wine, ask for directions to the Louvre and watch "Jean DeFlorette" with out English subtitles. Fortunately though knowing French will not deter you from enjoying this wonderful disc. While Edith Piaf tends to tackle most songs in a similar fashion, full-throttle, the tunes themseleves are awe inspiring if only becausre she is such total command of each selection. Hightlights, for me, are "La Vie En Rose", "Non, Je Ne Regrette Rien", "Hymne A L'Amour" and "L'Accordeoniste". Again, while the sound may be slightly dated that does add a certain charm to these pieces. Plus,other than Billie Holiday, no one makes a "broken heart" feel so good!

Overall, having a cd by Edith Piaf is another of those discs that one will always have in their collection. She simply exudes France (where are you Catherine Denueve?) and all that is right when an artist is in true command of her talents. So pick up your copy of Edith Piaf "The Voice Of The Sparrow", a bottle of wine, a copy of "A Year In Provence" by Peter Mayle with a few fresh baguettes and make your way
home. Paris is waiting....just inside your front door.

An excellent collection of some of Edith's best songs
This cd features some of the greatest songs by one of the greatest voices of our time. Among my favorite songs are "T'es Beau, Tu Sais", "Comme Moi", and "La vie en rose". This album is a must for anyone who loves Piaf and is a good collection for beginners who are unfamiliar with her songs. One need not understand French to enjoy this wonderful music. I must give this cd 5 stars, as there is no other voice like the voice of Edith Piaf.

The Sound of the Soul of France
Edith Piaf (1915-1963) was an unexpected artist, the child of a part-time prostitute and a circus acrobat, raised in a brothel, singing on street corners for pennies in Paris--until 1935, when her success at the famous Paris nightspot Gernys launched her to what would become international stardom. Notorious for her many ill-starred love affairs, attacked as a Nazi sympathizer during the French occupation, belatedly defended as a member of the French Resistance, self-destructing through alcohol and drugs, she proved as unexpected in her personal life as in her talents--but whatever the lady's personal failings, no one can fault her talents. She is, quite simply, the sound of the soul of France.

Unless you speak French you may find the idea of purchasing songs sung in French a little off-putting. I myself speak what you might call "hotel French"--which is to say handful of standard phrases that would get me through in a pinch. When I listen to Piaf I occasionally understand a term here and there, but the specific meaning of the words escape me. But this no hindrance at all. Piaf has a passion that truly transcends the limits of language. No one need tell you that her tone is ironic; no one need tell you that the song is about poverty, lost love, a plea to God; it is there, it is inescapable. Her voice has the delicacy and strength of a steel wire, alternating sharp and flat tones in a uniquely French style, setting forth a meticulously rolled "r" in such a way as to give you chills and flying into a series of electrifying vibratos that are unique in all of music.

Although it would take a box set to do this artist justice, THE VOICE OF THE SPARROW is a very nice introduction to eighteen of Piaf's most famous songs. In a general sense, Piaf typically sang love songs--and had an uncanny ability to shift from bright to dark tones, allowing the listener to feel a dozen different shades of each emotion that colors any single selection. Be it the internationally celebrated "La Vie en Rose," the intense "Mon Dieu," the defiant "Non, Je Ne Regrette Rein" or the super-sophisticated "T'es Beau, Tu Sais," once Piaf adopted a song it became hers alone; every other rendition seems pale in comparison. Sadly, the recordings on this CD have not been remastered--but it doesn't really matter. For one who could escape the limitations of language it is hardly difficult to leap the boundaries of recording technology with the sound of the heart.

GFT, Amazon Reviewer

She was such a babe!!!
I wish I could go back it time, so I could have an affiar with her. I'm completely infatuated with her, like Dana Andrew was with Gene Tierney's pertait in Laura! Her vocie is haunting, sexual, sensual, oozing with pain, laughter, humor, and SEX, SEX, SEX! A true legend, heck the woman had an affiar with Marlene Dietrich and was a legendary performer in her time, and conyinues to thrill young poeple liek me(I'm 19!). A great cd which covers ler last years on record, best in a french version of "Laugh clown." It's all good and poignient stuff, for us artistic types.

La voix d'un ange
this is definitely a must-have for edith piaf fans. it covers all her most famous songs, and for anyone who either grew up in a french-speaking country [like i did], or even in europe, it is hard NOT to know who she is... "la vie en rose" and "non je ne regrette rien" are her true classics... i dont think anyone can hear "non je ne regrette rien" without knowing immediately who the singer is. it is simply her signature song, or at least one of them for sure. her voice is amazing and unique, and many try to cover some of her songs and they simply offer edith no justice watsoever. [patricia kaas being an eception-- their voices are interestingly similar].
whether you understand french or not, this is a great record, with many ballads and a few uptempo songs to make you happy to be in love, or contrastingly, feel the pain of a broken heart. but all i gotta say is she makes a broken heart sound SOOO good... :)
allez milord, souriez moi milord! ... Read more

Amazon.com

After Les Misérables became a huge hit in London,it moved to Broadway, bringing along two stars from the Londonproduction, ColmWilkinson as the heroic Valjean and Frances Ruffelleas the despondent Eponine. Filling out this 1987 cast are Randy Graff(Fantine), TerrenceMann (Javert), David Bryant (Marius), Judy Kuhn(Cosette), MichaelMaguire (Enjolras), and Leo Burmester and Jennifer Butt (theThénardiers). Whether you prefer the London cast or this onejust might depend on which one you heard first, though minor revisionsto the show since its London debut make the Broadway version morefamiliar to current audiences. In fact, the 10th anniversary concertmight have the best overall cast of the lot, while the three-disc symphonicrecording is a must for completists.

Regardless of cast, Les Misérables has become asensation. Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg's score isfilled with beautiful ballads ("Bring Him Home," "I Dreamed a Dream")and rousing anthems ("One Day More," "Do You Hear the People Sing?"),and Victor Hugo's classicnovel of a student uprising in pre-revolutionary France provides acompelling story line that continues to thrill audiences all over theworld. --David Horiuchi ... Read more

Reviews (144)

Soaring Score but Lacking in Voices
Les Miserables is the definitive theater experience. With more than 5 recordings out, the Broadway Cast shines frequently, but also lacks luster when needed. I found that I blame this on the casting. I'm going to break down the cast and then you can see a really in depth analysis from a die hard Les Mis fan.

Colm Wilkinson(Valjean)-I would have to give Colm 4 stars. He is a very talented singer and adds the right emotions to certain songs. However I found that sometimes his voice wobbled. It goes high and then wobbles. For example in "What have I done?" the last sentence is more wobbled than sung. But he is absolutely superb in "Bring him Home." Few dry eyes can be found when hearing that song.

Terrence Mann(Javert)-Terrence Mann is another exceptional singer. He has an amazing range allowing him to go to almost bass like notes to high tenor ones. He was fabulous in Scarlet Pimpernel, and Beauty and the Beast, but his voice just doesnt seem to fit Javert. Its not deep enough or serious enough perhaps. It sounds like he is just fresh from the classroom and not a vetern who seems to have no heart.

Randy Graff(Fantine)-Randy has a decent voice, but to me it sounds like she is just singing the song. Not feeling the song. Fantine is a tortured character who needs to express the pain and anguish she feels to the audience, but she fails to do this in the soundtrack.

Donna Vivino(Y. Cosette)-Donna is the most amazing young Cosette I have ever heard in my life. Her rendition of "Castle on a Cloud" is perhaps one of the most stirring and amazing songs sung on the CD. Her voice is so fragile but strong at the same time. The innocence and beauty of the song and the singer makes you want to weep.

Jennifer Butt/Leo Burmester(Thenardier)-I like each of them alone. When Jennifer sings her lament of T. its amusing and funny. And when Leo is singing about his "treasured" Cosette and fakes crying its humorous as well. But when the two of them are together, there is little or no chemistry. The Thenardiers are suppose to be discusting schemers together, but these two dont do well together.

Braden Danner(Gavroche)-Braden is very convincing as Gavroche and portrays his character well. He is lively from his first to his last song.

Frances Ruffelle(Eponine)-Now comes the hard part. With Frances it seems fans either love her or hate her. I found that I love her and hate her at different times.I love her when she isnt belting because her voice tends to come out of her nose. When she is singing to herself at the begininng of "On my Own" I love her. But at the end when she is belting I want to hold my ears. Same with "One day More" Her voice is grating in that song, but during "Upon these Stones, Building the Barricade" I love her.

David Bryant(Marius)-I dont like David as Marius. His voice is just not "Marius". It is too deep and unemotional. Marius of all the students is the most emotional and wears his heart on his sleave. But he just like Randy is just singing the words, not the music.His voice during "A Heart Full of Love" is not carefree or happy sounding. His emotions arent up to key for this musical. He would almost do better as Javert because of his lack of emotions for society.

Judy Kuhn(Cosette)- Judy Kuhn is fabulous! She is probably the greatest Cosette ever sung and acted. You can feel her joy and despair in each song she sings. Her range as well is also amazing. Judy portrays Cosette perfectly as innocent but wanting to learn about what makes the world go round, and about her father Valjean. Judy just has an amazing voice that practically flies from the CD to you.

Anthony Crivello(Grantaire)-Even though Anthony has very little solos I found I couldnt leave him out. He is the actor who portrays the fearful student. Who in the begininng wants to have a part in the revolution, but once it begins becomes unsure and doubtful. Anthony has a talented voice and soars. He is exceptional.

Michael Maguire(Enjolras)-Michael is the most amazing Enjolras that has ever been and ever will be. His range, his emotions are so greatly portrayed through his character that you feel you know Enjolras. The determination never fails and he never gives up even to his last dying breath. His voice is amazing as well as his portrayl.His Tony Award was well deserved.

Well thats all I have to say about the actors. The CD is worth buying because of so many stand out performances and the haunting songs such as "Empty Chairs at Empty Tables" "On My Own" "Dreamed a Dream" Do you Hear the People Sing" and the chilling "Finale". The score by Boublil and Schonberg is beautifully orchestrated from the first despairing note to the last triumphant one. This is not to be missed.

Not the best recording
I prefer the 10th anniversary one to this one. I know that all American Les Mis fans are going to hate me for this, but I really don't like this recording because except for Colm Wilkinson and Ruffele, there is not much emotion in this CD. Let me continue before you click on that "no" icon!! Hear me out before you judge!

COLM WILKINSON as Valjean: He is the best singer on this CD. His singing is emotional and makes your spine tingle- he is THE ONLY VALJEAN!

FRANCES RUFFELLE as Eponine: I know you'll hate me for this, but I think that he voice is too squeeky. But she is very emotional and gives an excellent performance.

MICHAEL MAGUIRE as Enjorlas: HE IS THE BEST ENJORLAS! He is very emotional, strong, manly, and convincing.

JUDY KUHN as Cosette: She is the only Cosette that doesn't annoy me, so I obviously love her!

TERRANCE MANN as Javert: Philip Quast is so much better than Terrance Mann. Although he has a great voice, it's not the right kind of voice for Javert. He doesn't seem to get the character down. "Stars" is not very convincing.

DAVID BRYANT as Marius: Michael Ball is so much better than David Bryant. David puts NO emotion into his part- he doesn't seem very love struck. "Empty Chairs at Empty Tables" is not stirring and moving like it's supposed to be- it is cold and sounds like he is just singing the words with no emotion at all.

RANDY GRAFF as Fantine: Ruthie Henshall is worlds better than Randy Graff. I think that Graff tries to hard to be emotional, so it comes out as this horrible whining. It is especailly painful when she sings "Come to me" and at the end she sings, "For God's sake, please stay until I'm sleeping, and tell Cosette I love her and I'll see her when I WAAAAAAKE!" This last note is horrible and ear shattering! Her "I dreamed a dream" is convincing, though.

Not great...
Les Mis is a great musical... This is not a great soundtrack, but it's the only affordable one Amazon sells(figure that out)...

The first time I saw Les Mis was at a small local high school. It was pretty bad, for the most part, but the musicians as well as some of the actors redeemed the performance. Valjean was excellent, Thernardier was pretty good, but most of all, the musicians in the performance performed quite well. The premise of a MUSICAL is for it to BE musical, and have good quality instrumental music as well as good quality acting... ideally. This recording has one of the above...

I was looking forward to getting this version, but when I actually got it, I started listening to the songs and was rather disappointed. I can sit down at my computer and probably write an arrangement to accompany the performance of Les Mis in cheap quality MIDI and have it sound better than this.

For example, in tracks 5 and 8, the background part has some kind of guitar or something or other and it just sounds absolutely terrible. I Dreamed a Dream is generally considered to be one of the better songs in the entire musical, and it's a shame that it has to get virtually ruined with this kind of tacky synthetic sound... But this happens to many of the songs.

Three stars for the effort, for it being Les Mis, and for the singing being decent. I just think it's terrible when a great musical has to have such a terrible, tacky sounding 'orchestral' accompaniment.

Okay, but get the 10th Anniversary version
This Broadway album is much better than the slow-paced London album, but two other recordings top it: the Complete Symphonic Recording and the 10th Anniversary Concert Recording. What's good about the CSR is that, as the description says, it's "complete." It containes all the numbers you'll need if you want to listen to them over and over again. Performance-wise, however, the TAC Recording remains the best. It is graced, indeed, of The Dream Cast. As many reviewers have noted, for instance, the superiority of Lea Salonga both in voice and interpretation as Eponine over "sad" Kaho Shimada (CSR) and "whiny" Frances Ruffelle (OBCR and OLCR) is very clear on the TAC recording. If you can afford only one album, get the TAC version. Otherwise, add the CSR. These two should be enough to satisfy your craving for Les Mis albums.

Good, but there are better
I like the quicker pace of the music here compared to the Original London Recording. The casting of other actors is also quite refreshing. The Complete Symphonic Recording and the 10th Anniversary Concert Recording are much better, though. Eponine's Kaho Shimada (CSR) and Lea Salonga(TAC recording), for instance, act waaaaaaaaaaaaay better than shrieky Frances Ruffelle, who repeats the whiny and lackluster performance she did on the OLC recording.

This is not a bad CD to get if you're a big Les Miserables fan. If you can't afford to get all the recordings, however, stick to the CSR for its "completeness" and to the TAC recording for its "liveliness," great actors and great performances. ... Read more

Reviews (71)

Great movie, but missing a great song on soundtrack
The movie was great and so is the soundtrack--for the most part. I agree with the people who have posted reviews before me...the soundtrack is missing that great song from the Diane Keaton/Keanu Reeves scene in her kitchen. I hate to post such a question here, but does anyone know what the name of that song is and who sings it? It isn't "Sunday Morning" by Maroon 5 as a previous poster suggested. I am sure that it wasn't Jamiroquai, as I did not see it listed in the song credits after the film, but it sounded a lot like him. If anyone can figure it out......please post!

song titles and boum boum!
The album is good on its own, it's very relaxing, and perfectly evokes the part in the movie where Erica was doing her writing and Harry was around.. It would've been REALLY great if it had included all the contemporary songs like Paul Simon's "Learn How to Fall", the Krazytown song "Butterfly" and Maroon 5's "Sunday Morning", Earth Wind and Fire's "Sing a Song". And the song someone here was looking for is really titled "Boum Boum", sung by Charles Trenet. All the more contemporary songs weren't in the album, so disappointing! I hope they decide to release another soundtrack to the album, with all the missing songs.

Song at the end of credits
I'm also looking for that haunting music that plays whenever Jack and Diane are together. It also plays at the very end of the movie as the final credits roll. Can anyone tell us the name of the song and the artist? It's an instrumental.You can e-mail me at jbballi@hotmail.com.

Thanks,

Awesome! and the mysterious song...
A Great Movie and CD...the mysterious song that plays when Harry and Erica are together on piano, then guitar is called Remember Me and is featured on this CD

DISAPPOINTED
Great movie. Disappointing CD as there are only 14 tracks of the 28 from the movie on the CD. What a let down. I loved all the tracks. I most certainly would/will pay double to have all of the tracks. Come on SONY do me/us a big favour and release the real sound track. ... Read more

Amazon.com

On her fourth album, Taking A Chance On Love, singer Jane Monheit makes her leap to the majors and the fit is a good one. As she's proven on past efforts, Monheit is a traditional stylist who expertly mines American standards by balancing pop's accessible sensibility and jazz's rich complexity. The material could be, and has been, in worse hands than Monheit's--her exceptional technique again brings these songs to life without taking liberties with structure, melody or odd arrangements. It's her exceptional execution, tonal palette, and phrasing that gives these songs a sense of artistry. She also gets subtle support from an impressive cast of sidemen (including guest singer Michael Buble, bassists Ron Carter and Christian McBride, and guitarist Romero Lubambo) in a variety of contexts, ranging from jazz combos to orchestra to vocal-and-single-instrument duets. Highlights include the tender "Embraceable You," the lushly orchestrated "Dancing in Dark" and the jaunty bebop version of "Honeysuckle Rose." –-Tad Hendrickson ... Read more

Amazon.com essential recording

From her early days in the bathhouses to her rise as the star of her own concert film, Bette Midler has always brought a campy playfulness to her performances.Experience the Divine focuses on her radio hits for the bulk of its resources, although the kicky "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy" is here. Midler's voice easily adapts itself to the material she's performing: "When a Man Loves a Woman" is charged with a raw sensuality whereas "In My Life," is as tender as a lullaby.The recent standards are here, "From a Distance" and "Wind Beneath My Wings," along with her star-making turn, "The Rose." Whether she's handling Cole Porter ("Miss Otis Regrets") or the Beatles, Bette Midler's voice is dynamic and expressive, according to the needs of the song. This astute ability to interpret without always going for the kill makes her versions of her chosen material some of the best ever recorded. --Steve Gdula ... Read more

Reviews (41)

The Rose
Bette Midler has a wonderful voice and this is a great album.
The CD starts with the extremely melancholy tearjerker, 'Hello In There' (1972) followed by a soft jazzy rendition of ' Do You Want To Dance' (1972).
Then there is that beautiful ballad, 'From A Distance' (1990), it is not an anti-war rave, but a beautiful song of spiritual contemplation.
Her version of 'Chapel Of Love' (1972) is also a great, feel-good number.

'Only In Miami' (1983) is a superb Calypso piece, which also brings to mind the plight of millions of Cuban exiles from the cruel Castro regime in Cuba.
'When A Man Loves A Woman' (1979) (is a bit different to the original, but certainly adds a soft touch 'The Rose' (1979) is one of the most exquisite, inspirational love songs of all times.

The jazzy 'Miss Otis Regrets' (1990) is a fun rendition of the 1935 Cab Calloway hit, and 'Shiver Me Timbers' (1976) is another lovely imagery hit and who can forget the poetic 'The Wind Beneath Mt Wings' (1988) from the 'Beaches Soundtrack.'
And I also enjoy Bette's 1991 rendition of John Lennon's 'In My Life'
This is a great compilation of some beautiful music.
Sit and listen , notonly to the words , but let the music speak to you !

Best of Bette's First 20 Years in Business (3.5 stars)
Sometimes referred to as a lesser Barbra Streisand, Bette Midler has not had such a star-ridden career, but what she did in her music was always worth hearing. This compilation chronicles the greatest hits from the first twenty years or so (1972-1992) of her career.

A few songs are taken from her breakthrough debut "The Divine Miss M", hit ballads "The Rose", "Wind Beneath My Wings" and "From A Distance" (the latter two big Grammy winners) are also featured. The take on Percy Sledge's "When A Man Loves A Woman" resembles Janis Joplin at her most emotional, while Cole Porter's "Miss Otis Regrets" is a great pop rendition of old standard. Also the remake of the Beatles' "In My Life" (from the movie "For The Boys" where she gave a stunning performance) is worth the name of the song.

Simply put, Bette Midler is a true artist who can sing a song. A good singer of good songs. And although her newer material has not been very successful in terms of sales, her level remains high.

Great covers and originals - all kinds of songs
Bette sings excellent covers of songs from several decades of popular music, each in her own distinctive style, as well as a few originals.

Among the originals, the outstanding song is The Rose, a song written by Amanda McBroom who was then unknown but has established herself as a cabaret singer since she wrote this song.

Bette is perhaps best known for two massive international hits. Wind beneath my wings started life as an R+B song but a Gary Morris cover made the top five in the American country chart. Lee Greenwood's cover became a minor British pop hit. Bette had a major pop hit on both sides of the Atlantic. Bette's version of From a distance, first recorded by folk-country singer Nanci Griffith, matched the success of Wind beneath my wings.

John Prine, an under-appreciated singer-songwriter, wrote Hello in there. Do you wanna dance is a rock'n'roll classic. Chapel of love is of a similar vintage, being originally recorded by the Dixie Cups. When a man loves a woman is a cover of Percy Sledge's classic soul song. The Beatles are represented by a wonderful cover of In my life.

Cole Porter wrote Miss Otis regrets, making it the oldest song here - it was a hit for Ethel Waters way back in 1934. Another old song, Boogie woogie bugle boy, was a hit for the Andrews sisters in 1941. Completing a trilogy of songs from the Great American Songbook is One for my baby, a 1945 hit for Lena Horne.

As a representation of Bette's music, this is excellent.

SHE'S CRAZY, SHE'S A DIVA, SHE'S DIVINE
I have to say that Bette Midler is a gifted and talented performer, but here role in music is somehow eclectic. This Greatest Hits Package is missing not a lot, is missing everything!, some great tracks are just somehow unfitted here. This albums tries to show the different styles of the Divine, but the package got lost in the mix, making an odd track order. Of course the GH includes Midler highlights, "Wind Beneath My Wings, Form A Distance, Do You Want To dance?, and of course The Rose", but the album is somehow missing the key factor that made Midler a star, a well produced ecletic album that doesn't fall in boriness, but this collection does fall.

Our Divine Gal "Experience"
My friends and I have enjoyed your music for several years. Myself, I have been listening since 1973, and am still. I don't believe that there are any tunes that are not in some way pleasurable to listen to. For the "Experienced" listeners, there is much to hear and understand about the little gal that literally flew in, took this city and rocked it!

We love ya Bette...from Toronto....the city of Pride. ... 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

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

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

Album Description

Got you on my mind is the collaboration between chanteuse Madeleine Peyrouxand harmonica virtuoso/ guitarist William Galison, with whom she has touredextensively in recent years. On Ms. Peyroux's first recording since Deamland,Madeleine and William cover a wide variety of tunes, from a Josephine Bakerclassic through tunes made famous by Willy Dixon, Stevie Wonder and John Lennon, aswell as three delightful original compositions. The accompanying musicians arestars in their own right, including Bob Dylan's bassist Tony Garnier andSaturday Night Live's drummer Shawn Pelton, and there is a delightful cameo bynone other than Carly Simon. To many of Madeleine's fans, Got You On My Mindrepresents her exquisite singing at its most natural and unconstrained -- in aninformal, musical context close to her roots and to her heart. What comes acrossmost strongly from this CD however, is the amazing musical chemistry betweenthese two extraordinary artists. ... Read more

Amazon.com

The Look of Love doesn't tamper with Diana Krall's ongoing success, continuing the emphasis on romantic ballads and embracing them with lush string arrangements. At the core, of course, is Krall's voice. She's developing into one of the great torch singers, with an approach that's both direct and subtly nuanced, true to the song and yet deeply personal. There's a combination of restraint and drama here, as Krall ranges from the confident to the wistful, from loss to playful insinuation, as each song requires. "Cry Me a River" is bittersweet triumph, while "Love Letters" and "Maybe You'll Be There" maintain the most tenuous emotional hold, at once fragile and resilient. "Besame Mucho" and "Dancing in the Dark" are sultry romances wafted on light Latin beats. The songs develop their intimacy in the setting of Krall's quartet, which usually includes bassist Christian McBride and drummer Peter Erskine and several fine guitarists, most frequently Russell Malone. They're a superb complement to her voice and piano, and the close communication carries through the depth and sheen added by Claus Ogerman's rich orchestrations. --Stuart Broomer ... Read more

Reviews (448)

A Perfectly Beautiful and Romantic CD
I think it may be a bit of a shame this album is in the "jazz" catagory, for although Diana Krall may be a "jazz artist", on this miraculous CD she simply a singer of standards.... she has style, but (thank God), she sings these songs without destroying or molesting the lyric or melody that so many artists are prone to do today. THE SONGS are the stars on this album, not the "stylings" of a "diva"... how refreshing that is! These songs are not for those with limited attention spans who must have a driving beat and an occasional yelp or cry from the vocalist... these songs are for those who know how to listen and hear truly great orchestrations from veterans like Claus Ogerman (who orchestrated the most mellow of all Frank Sinatra's albums "Francis Albert Sinatra and Antonio Carlos Jobim" in the 1960s).. and this album is a tribute to that very sound. This album is lush, romantic, beautifully crafted and sensuous.. it is for a night of romance and for decompression from the traffic and noise of everyday life. I hope Ms. Krall will give us more albums like this masterpiece. TOP musicians, superbly crafted arrangements and a clear and clean vocalist who respects lyric, melody and emotion make this clearly a 5 star masterwork in every respect.

A Delightful Slice of Kralliana
What can we say about Diana Krall that hasn't been said? She's beautiful and talented and has a way with a song. "The Look of Love" only further adds to the opinion that she is one of the more accomplished artists of our time. Her new CD shows her growth as an artist by venturing where she has not gone before.

Rather than stick with studio musicians, Diana enlists the help of the London Symphony Orchestra. Her voice blends pertectly with the muscianship and gives this CD a classical feel. Diana shows her ability to handle all kinds of music, from the Latin-tinged "Besame Mucho" (remember when the Beatles did this one?), to the more traditonal "S'Wonderful.". Other symphony-influenced pieces are are "The Night We Called It a Day", "Cry Me a River" and "Dancing in the Dark".

Diana has always been a big fan of the great composers and she offers us the work of a wide variety. Bachrach and David's title track, Hoagy Carmichael's "I Get Along Very Well Without You", Johnny Mercer's "I Remember You" are all standouts.

Diana's voice has also remarkably improved (not that it wes bad before!.) It's much softer and smoother, which fits in beautifully with the tone of this CD.

"The Look of Love" is a must buy for Krallaniacs everywhere. But now that you discovered Diana Krall, check out some other great artists like Jane Monheit, Tierney Sutton, the late great Susannah McCorkle and of course, the one, the only, the incomparable Jacqui Naylor.

insant classic
this is an instant classic people!

i heard all her clips at http://www.vervemusicgroup.com and bought the cd immediately!

Good bad day music
If you haven't heard Diana Krall, you're missingout. She is a true jazz talent. I recommend The Look of Love highly.

I have always HATED Jazz but....
I have always hated jazz. I much prefer classical music as well at the real rocknroll...I believe that rocknroll died the day Elvis went into the army. The other night I was channel hopping and ended up on the CBC looking at this attractive blonde singing Cry Me A River......turned out to be Diana Krall...Live in Paris.....
I was mezmerized.......the piano playing, the mellow mood....and to top it off Krall's exquisite diction....One can understand every word....Remember Simon and Garfunkel's mouthing and mumbling of word in Bridge Over Troubled Waters??? None of that here.....clear, precise, perfection...............G ... Read more

Reviews (48)

All-Time Greatest Hits Indeed!!
This CD is wonderful! Every song is excellent, every tune fun and nice to listen to.

All of Armstrong's best known songs are present from "Hello Dolly" to "Mack the Knife." One of my all time favorite songs from Armstrong is on this CD as well: "Sittin' in the Sun." Moreover, "A Kiss to Build a Dream On" a song which also appears on the "Sleepless in Seattle" soundtrack, and "What a Wonderful Life," probably one of Louis most famous songs are present as well.

As always Louis has a very distinctive voice which sounds great with all the tunes. The mix contains ragtime style, to pure Jazz, to big band style. Every song on this CD is great! There are no bad apples in the bunch! If you are a big Jazz fan, then you will not want to be without this CD. This CD always puts a smile on my face when I listen to it because Louis' music is so fun to hear. This one of my favorite CDs in my overall collection!

A GUY FROM NEW ORLEANS SAYS IT'S THE BEST LOUIS OF THEM ALL!
1 KNOW THERE ARE A LOT (ABOUT 35, ACTUALLY) OF LOUIS ARMSTRONG'S GREATEST HITS CDs OUT THERE. I HAVE 31 OF HIS TAPES AND CDs MYSELF! JAZZ IS MY FAVORITE MUSIC (THAT AND GOTHIC/INDUSTRIAL), AND BEING ORIGINALLY FROM NEW ORLEANS, DOWN SOUTH, I HAVE HEARD MORE JAZZ THAN MOST. BUT I JUST HAVE TO SAY THAT OF ALL THE LOUIS BEST ALBUMS, THIS ONE CONTAINS THE MOST OF HIS REALLY, TRULY BEST NUMBERS.

THE MOST POPULAR SONGS ON THIS RECORD INCLUDE: MACK THE KNIFE, HELLO DOLLY, WHAT A WONDERFUL WORLD, BLUEBERRY HILL, LA VIE EN ROSE, WHEN IT'S SLEEPY TIME DOWN SOUTH AND MANY MORE--ALL GREAT!!! MY FAVORITE TWO ARE "SKOKIAAN" AND "SITTIN' IN THE SUN." THERE ARE 18 TRACKS TOTAL, AND HONESTLY, I NEVER WANT TO FAST FORWARD THROUGH ANY OF THEM!!!

I LISTEN TO THIS CD CONSTANTLY (IT'S PLAYING NOW!!!!) AND I NEVER TIRE OF ITS UP-LIFTING, SWINGIN', CAN'T HELP BUT SMILING AND LAUGHING COLLECTION. IT'S SUCH A "FEEL GOOD" CD THAT I GIVE IT TO MY DEPRESSED FRIENDS TO CHEER THEM UP. IT WORKS; I SWEAR! AND I DON'T MIND ADMITTING THAT IT HAS GOTTTEN ME OUT OF MANY BAD MOOD.

AS THE BEATNIK'S WOULD SAY, "THIS MUSIC MAKES YOU SOAR, MAN!"

Louis Armstrong Was The Epitome Of Jazz And Always Will Be
The above caption comes from the seven pages of wonderful liner notes written by Will Friedwald, the author of Jazz Singing, and is attributed to the great Duke Ellington. Who, it is safe to say, knew what he was talking about when it came to Jazz.

Interspersed with the notes are a few more photographs of Louis and several LP/45/78 reproductions. A discography of the contents completes the package, although chart performances are not recorded.

Louis, of course, was selling thousands upon thousands of records long before there were charts, and after the advent of the Most-Played Juke Box Race Records charts [now R&B charts) in the mid-1940s, he had hits with I Wonder (#5 in 1945) and The Frim Fram Sauce (# 4 in 1946 in a duet with Ella Fitgerald). That same year he and Ella cracked the pop charts with You Won't Be Satisfied Until You Break My Heart (# 10) backed with Bob Haggart & His Orchestra. None of these, unfortunately, are included here.

In 1949 he made it to both charts simultaneously with That Lucky Old Sun [track 7] on which he began a lucrative association with Gordon Jenkins & His Orchestra [# 14 on what had become known by then as the Most-Played Juke Box Rhythm And Blues Records charts] and # 19 pop. That, incidentally, would be the last time he would chart on anything related to R&B.

From there until 1966 he would chalk up 18 more pop hits, mostly for Decca, but also for the Capitol, Columbia [Mack The Knife], Kapp, ABC, and Mercury labels. In this volume you get all but the # 30 1950 duet with Ella, Can Anyone Explain? (No, No, No), Now You Has Jazz, a 1956 # 88 duet with Bing on Capitol from the film High Society, So Long Dearie (# 56 in 1964 for Mercury), and Mame (# 81 in 1966 for Mercury).

What A Wonderful World first charted at # 12 on the Adult Contemporary Charts in 1966 for ABC, and in 1968 a re-release "bubbled under" on the Billboard pop charts at # 116. However, following the release of the film Good Morning Vietnam it reached # 32 pop in 1988 for A&M, and in 1999 the same recording, overdubbed by the sax of Kenny G, reached # 53 for the Arista label.

The sound quality on all tracks is superb and this is one of the best CDs on the market covering his hit singles.

Great
This is a Very Good cd listen to 11

Smiles and Tears: Perfect Introducton to Jazz
Louis Armstrong brought such emotions to my music collection. My, a child grew up on rap, fell in love with and old dead man and his beautiful songs. He introducted me to jazz music and expanded my horizons.

That was three years ago. I now am a jazz fanatic. Louis brought my jazz life out of the womb. This ablum lacks the great early jazz recorded by Satchmo and some increditable duets with Ella Fitsgerald and many more. But one CD can only be so long and like I said a perfect introduction to jazz music specifically Louis Armstrong. God Bless and RIP. ... Read more

Amazon.com

It's nice to see Bette Midler putting her spin on an American classic after less-than-convincing detours through adult-contemporary cheese. This tribute focuses on Rosemary Clooney in the early to mid-1950s--so we don't get any of the fabulous Nelson Riddle material--but it's a fairly strong offering. It was produced and arranged by Midler's old musical director, Barry Manilow--who actually dueted with Clooney on a couple of songs in the 1990s and here replaces Bing Crosby on the duet "On a Slow Boat to China." Mostly, the CD is about hits: "Hey There" and "White Christmas" are done in straightforward manner, while Linda Ronstadt fills in for Rosemary's actual sister Betty on a slinky version of "Sisters." Happily, Midler plays "Come On-A My House" down instead of up (the old Bette would have milked its comic aspect) but the singer lets loose on "Mambo Italiano." That's pretty much the only time the Divine Miss M peeks out from behind Clooney's elegant persona, and it's a delight. --Elisabeth Vincentelli ... Read more

Reviews (186)

Bette pays tribute to the First Lady of Song - Rosie Clooney
This lovely album from Bette Midler is one of her best yet. Miss Midler pays loving tribute to legendary song stylist Rosemary Clooney in this collection of songs, produced by Barry Manilow.

Midler tackles Clooney standards like "This Ole House", "Tenderly", "Come On-a My House" and "Memories of You" with great skill. If there is one singer who has the chops to do these songs justice, it's Miss Midler.

Midler also does a beautiful rendition of THE PAJAMA GAME's ballad "Hey There", and joins Barry Manilow for the duet "On a Slow Boat to China". Linda Ronstadt joins Bette for "Sisters", the comical duet first introduced by Clooney in WHITE CHRISTMAS. Also from that memorable movie is the Title Song, sung by Midler in such a fashion that it makes the song new again.

Perhaps the one wrong number is "Mambo Italiano", which seems too overheated. And, at just over 30 minutes, the disc is a little brief.

However, this heartfelt tribute to the late Miss Rosemary Clooney is a delight, pure and simple. [COLUMBIA 5125062000]

Still Divine After All These Years!
A new recording by Bette Midler is alway a treat and will brighten up the dullest day. Here she sings the songs of another talented lady, Rosemary Clooney. Midler teamed up with Barry Manilow-- he sings on one cut with her-- to produce this lush tribute. Midler is backed up by an orchestra on most of the songs although when she sings "This Ole House", she is accompanied by a banjo, mandolin, bass, guitar and drums. This is probably my favorite song on the CD, one I hadn't heard since childhood when I believe Tennessee Ernie Ford recorded it. This is a great, catchy arrangement of that song. Something tells me "Sisters" with Linda Ronstadt is already a favorite in gay bars everywhere. There's also "Hey There", "Tenderly" and "In the Cool, Cool, Cool of the Evening." All too quickly Midler sings the finale Berlin's "White Christmas" and a beautiful concert is over.

Midler is as good as she ever was. Hearing this CD made me want to listen again to Rosemary Clooney. This very polished recording will bring you much pleasure.

SUPERB!
Words cannot describe Bette's rendition of Rosie's wonderful songs. I played it over and over again. If you loved Rosemary Clooney, you will love this CD. Buy it. You will not be sorry.

Wonderful!
A great CD. The song Bette sings with Barry Manilow, On a Slow Boat to China, is so fabulous that you'll want to play this CD over and over again!

You don't GET enough from BETTE!
I had this CD on my wish list from the time it was announced for release. I got it for a birthday present and played it at the party immediately upon ripping the package open. This CD is so short! Surely, Rosie made many more wonderful songs that Bette could have sung. This CD is 30 minutes long. There is not enough enjoyment to make it work the price. ... Read more

Amazon.com

The manipulation of classic jazz tracks has been part of DJ club culturesince the '80s, as artists have continually scratched, looped, and sampled beatsand phrases. Verve Remixed has been in the planning stages for years,with in-house producers inviting an international cast of remix artists toselect songs from the label's vaults. The results are often tremendouslysuccessful, as the remix artists have picked up and expanded upon elementsalready present in the original. The funky Latin beat ofWillie Bobo's "SpanishGrease" gets new life fromRichard Dorfmeister,along with a prominent new bass line. Similarly, King Britt pumps up the Indianelements of Tony Scott's"Hare Krishna."dZihan and Kamien'strance remix (with tabla drums) ofBillie Holiday's "Don'tExplain" is among the most arresting tracks, creating psychodrama betweenHoliday's original vocal and the new environment.Nina Simone's voiceseems tailor-made for this approach, as if it has always cried out for thelayered rhythmic emphasis.Masters at Work's takeon her "See-Line Woman" is electric in its intensity--cool flute sonorities andmetallic percussion embrace and catapult the original vocal into a new presence.--Stuart Broomer ... Read more

Reviews (58)

Nueva Verve
After listeninig and comparing this dj project to the original recording on the Verve Unmixed LP--- I've got to absolutely declare... Verve Remixed is Amazing!! This astonishing dj project takes some of the hottest house producers and victoriously salutes the art of verve culture! The first and most amazing track has got to be the opening track--- the Willie Bobo remix is incredible. This track is completely uplifting! Mj Cole gives the How Long Has This Been Going On classic a new theme with his poppy almost playful beat. This is no longer a sad song-- but it is still the voice and the notes you have grown to love from this soulful singer. You get the picture. Verve Remixed continues... If you are a jazz lover, a deep house, or lounge music lover --- you have to check this cd. You will love it! Verve Remixed is a CD for the new breed of jazz lovers. Once you bring the legendary voices of coveted jazz singers Astrud Gilberto, Nina Simone, Ella Fitzgerald, and others into your cypher you wont want their voices to leave! You'll be off curiously buying the Verve Unmixed and then you'll be in search of other Desert Island Discs. This upbeat CD puts a new swing on the classic jazz style. A Must Buy-No Doubt!

A Cosmopolitan, a few friends and just kick back
Loving most of these tracks in the original form I approached this CD with anticipation but at the same time with trepidation. Too often we hear the classics remixed but to what purpose. However, this CD seems to add a layer to the tracks that not only maintains the purity of the original but lifts them into a different sphere.

Nina Simone's See-Line Woman (remixed by Masters at Work) and Dinah Washington's Is You Or Is You Ain't My Baby (remixed by Rae & Christian) enter a whole new dimension of electronica and beats whilst maintaining the integrity of the diva's vocals and nuances. The amazing pair of Rob Garza and Eric Hilton from Thievery Corporation have always defined cool for me and with their remix of Astrud Gilberto they don't disappoint. Joe Clausell's remix of Nina Simone singing Feelin' Good would have to be the funkiest chilled track of the year. That haunting piano remains with a backing of electonic funk. This is a great album for chill out Sunday's, friends for brunch, coming down from Saturday night or just you at home alone with a Cosmopolitan. A must have for fans of Verve and some of todays masters of remix.

Balance
It seems that there are three types of people who purchased this CD.

1. The Jazz fanatic who ends up hating it because the work is not in tack or the artist vocals where rewroked.

2. The uneducated "Techno" (Its a genre of edm not a generalization of edm folks) fan who doesn't get or appreciate the beauty of the classic jazz tracks.

3. The heads who get jazz and understand the mantra like qualities of EDM.

The remixes on this album are mostly fantastic, some are creative and dont hold to a pop format which makes them more uncomfortable than the standard "song"

If you are someone who read Kerouac in high school or university, dug nina and ella and monk and davis and mingus and then discovered the New Jazz (EDM and IDM) then buy this CD. If you are in either of the 2 catagories of uneducated techno fan or old school jazz purist you may have to open you mind to get the beauty of this piece.

Awesome
This is a great album. House meets old jazz. Great energy but also mellow. Get it, it's great!!!

JAMMIN @$$ CD!!!!!!!!!!!!
The Verve Remixed Volume 1 is the BOMB!!! I bought Volume 2 first and thought it was the shiz-nit, but Volume 1 is just as good if not better. I absolutely love the the blend of [nice] vocals from the legendary Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, Carmen McRae, Dinah Washington and Nina Simone with the electronica (if you will) of today's contemps like MJ Cole, The Dorfmeister, Thievery Corporation, De-Phazz, Rae and Christian, Tricky, Joe Clausell and others. This is a very ambitious series that I doubt will end soon, and may even generate other compilations of its ilk. Well done mixing from all involved! ... Read more

Amazon.com

What is it about erstwhile '60s rock stars nearing 60 that draws them to standards? Just as Rod Stewart has mined the works of Styne & Cahn and Cole Porter for his bankable (if heavy-handed) Great American Songbook series, so, too, has Linda Ronstadt turned to pop classics in the autumn of her career. Of course, Ronstadt has been here before, having enlisted Nelson Riddle to guide her through three standards collections in the '80s. With Hummin' to Myself, the peripatetic vocalist eschews the robust big-band arrangements that marked What's New and its offspring for small-ensemble treatments of the likes of "Miss Otis Regrets" and "Day Dream." With either Alan Broadbent orWarren Bernhardt at the keys and Bob Mann, Christian McBride, and Lewis Nash making up the rhythm section on most tracks, Ronstadt gets more than capable instrumental support from some seasoned jazz pros, and while she won't make anyone forget Ella Fitzgerald, she brings her distinctive brand of brass to "Never Will I Marry" and "Get Out of Town." Meanwhile, she eases through languid takes of "I Fall in Love Too Easily" and "Cry Me a River," the latter borrowing considerably from Julie London's defining version, but substituting melancholy for London's playful sultriness. --Steven Stolder ... Read more

Reviews (45)

The absolute best recording
"West Side Story" features some of the greatests music ever to reach both the stage and the big screen. Leonard Bernstein's incredible score and Stephen Sondheim's wonderful lyrics are what make both the play and the film memorable.

Hands down, this recording from the film is the best of all recordings for several reasons.

1. Almost all of the music Bernstien wrote is available on this disc. This CD includes the Overture, the complete "Dance at the Gym" with the Blues, Mambo, and Jump that was missing from the LP release, the underscore for the "Rumble" sequence, and the "Finale" that underscores Tony's funeral procession. The only major piece that is missing is the "Ballet" sequence.

2. The orchestra plays the songs at reasonable tempos that are neither grudgingly slow nor lightning fast. Conductor Johnny Green knew what he was doing when he slowed the "Mambo" down from the original Broadway release; in the Broadway version, the "Mambo" is finished in less than 2 minutes!!!

3. In the movie, "America" features both the male and female Sharks; in the Broadway version, only the girls are in the song. With new lyrics and the guys, "America" is a much more memorable piece than it was before.

4. Finally, the music was re-orchestrated for the better. The orchestra sounds fuller and more powerful than in the Broadway release.

If you have any choice, buy the movie version; it is far superior to any other release. Or, buy both the movie and the Broadway versions, but stay away from any others. Only the originals are worth owning.

Remastered and extended movie soundtrack
First off, the real star of this disc is the orchestra. With a 70 piece orchestra available for the film. Bernstein's score is given colours that no Broadway orchestra could ever achieve.

The film of WEST SIDE STORY is remarkably faithful to the original Broadway production, dropping the "Somehwere" Ballet but otherwise retaining all the songs (with a few minor interior trims, and a much sharper lyric written by Stephen Sondheim for "America.")

The original Columbia Lp for this soundtrack was about as full as stereo Lps could be in the early 60s, (approximately 55 minutes) so some of the orchestral music was edited out. The CD (which runs 77 minutes!) restores much of it and benefits from a thorough remastering. The booklet has good notes about the making of the film and a detailed synopsis (though at this point most everyone knows the story!) I would have elected to follow the Lp's solution and kept "Somewhere" as the final track instead of Tony death scene followed by Maria's sobbing. Her speech to the gang members - which was originally written as an outline for a song that was never wrtten - is edited out of the CD, so the scene is robbed of much of its power.

The Original Broadway cast is still a must since it captures the show when it was fresh and new even if some of the voices, the shark girls especially, are not the best.

There's a reason why this album has been a million seller and continues to sell well some 40+ years after its original release.

Awesome, BUT., . .
THis is one of the best available recordings of West Side Story, but there are many things that have caused me to lower the rating. I'll go thru the Tracks
1. Overture - This is the ONLY place I have ever been able to find a recording of the Overture, Johnny (conductor) plays it very very fast, but nonetheless, musicians will love this track.
2. Prologue - I prefer this version to the Original Broadway version, but it has it's negative points. The bwest part is that the Fugue from "Cool" is weaved in and Out of this, as well as the music from the "Somewhere" Ballet and Nightmare.
3. Jet Song - Good version of the song, they change the words from "ever mother loving street" to "f***king ever lovin' street" at the end, which I think is unnecessary.
4. Something's Coming - They re-wrote the Song in a different key for the Movie, but it's a good version, with a very cool flute/oboe riff at the end.
5. Dance at the Gym - i) Blues - They totally rewrote this one too for the Movie, I like it, but the Trumpets have the melody the whole time rather than trading off with the Trombones, and they add a repeat in the song. . .but nonetheless it rocks. I'm glad someone finally played the guitar audibly on this track.
ii) Promenade - Nothing to say here, This is almost a filler, it is the scene where everyone forms two circles and walks around before dancing.
iii) Mambo - Slowest version I've ever heard in my Entire life, but it Works. It has an extended "D Trumpet" solo in it. It's not bad.
iv) Cha-Cha - Shortened significantly, bringing in the Vibraphone solo too soon.
v) Meeting Scene - Finally!!!! An album with the Meeting Scene!
vi) Jump - one of my favorites, it's nice to see this one too finally on album.
6. Maria - Very good perfromance both by the musicians and singers. Nothing changed here.
7. America - This scene and the lyrics were Completely re-written for the Movie, i don't know why. Instead of the girls only, it has The Sharks and their girls singing about the pros and cons of living In America. But this is the most well-known version and is enjoyable.
8.Balcony Scene (Tonight) - Nothing is changed, it's still the classic scene and classic song.
9. Gee, Officer Krupkee - This scene was rewritten from "Cool" to "Krupkee." Why? I don't know. But this is my favorite version of this song, although they change some lyrics.
10. Intermission Music - Was this even in the movie? Well it's the only version I've ever come across, but there's not much to complain about, only that the RUMBLE is supposed to be before intermission, but then again The Movie changed alot of things.
11. I feel Pretty - Extended version with Lines from the Movie, but I have yet to find an exact version. The Acoustic Nylon (Spanish) Guitar sounds good and is the foreground., the way I think Bernstein wanted this song to sound.
12. One Hand, One Heart -I never liked this song, but it sounds fine, nothing much changed here, if anything.
13. Tonight - Fast version, the Jets screw up their first line!! The actors cannot sing this one very well, and the lyrics and "who sings what" is all jumbled up and changed around severly.
14. The Rumble - Excellent Performance of the Rumble done by the Orchestra! This is the hardest song to play in all of West Side Story.
15. Somewhere - Talk about killing songs . . . Not only was the Ballet Sequence totally written out of the movie, but Somewhere was shortened and has Tony and Maria singing it rather than A Girl.
16. Cool - Almost made into A Rock song with the Electric "Plucked" bass and changing the Key to Bb until the Fugue, this song has changed for the better in my opinion. I love this version, the guitar can actually be heard, where as in the original you can't here it at all!! (Was it even there? It's written in the part). I love this song, CRANK IT UP!
17. Boy Like That/I Have a love - Superb performance, nothing changed.
18. Finale - Beautiful, except that in the last chord, the orchestra does not hit the low F# that is written in the part, so that annoys me, then again they didn't do it in the Broadway version either.
19. End Credits - Bernstein didn't write this, but It's nice music for the end of the movie.

So all in all i gave this CD a 4 out of 5, it's definitely worth buying, just aslong as you aren't looking for an exact performance of the original score, then go and buy a different version.

My candidate for the greatest musical of all time...
This show is probably the most powerful musical I've ever seen. It tackles an age old tragedy of love versus hate and succeeds in telling it where most people fail. With this story, you have to show the effects of hate, and the strength of love, and how one can kill another; how one can rise above the other. Its a story that sinks into cliché and staleness time after time, but this show makes it youthful and passionate and raw and tragic. West Side Story is one of those rare pieces of art that grabs you and engages you entirely. You don't just listen, you become a bystander in this soaring, sweeping, saddening, shattering story. It has the power to affect you and touch your heart.

The star of the show is Bernstein's score, which is magnificent and could stand on it's own solely as an orchestral piece, but we're given the gift of lyrics by a young Stephen Sondheim and a book by Arthur Laurents. It's a love story where you feel this hopeful, glorious love of these two young people who have done nothing wrong and want nothing but their love for each other in a world which "won't let us be". To see this love, and thus all their hope, ripped from them is incredibly heartbreaking.

The show is very edgy, it pushed the envelope in an era when you didn't really do that. Rough topics are introduced: gang violence, juvenile delinquency, race issues, immigration, you name it. Two of the "light" songs, "Officer Krupke" and "America" are dark and satire. The former delves into psychological issues which other artistic mediums wouldn't really start exploring until much later. The latter engages in satirical banter about immigrant life in this country, scored to an infectious dance rhythm. The show was so far ahead of it's time in themes, it's social voice so lacking in arrogance and so full of bursting, aching, empathy and strong, urgent messages, I can't help but think it still is and that we haven't really learned a thing. You can still set this in 2004, it's ageless in all respects.

I've never listened to the Original Broadway Cast, but this version is very good. The two leads, Maria's role isn't sung as well as I would have liked, a bit weak, but Tony's role is sung quite beautifully.

This music switches between manic, energetic pieces written for dance, which explode at you in a feast of rhythm and melody, soaring ballads, and the heartbreaking, pulsing, life-giving thematic rivers flowing behind the whole show from beginning to end. This show lifts you high up, and it breaks your heart at the top, and it leaves you there crying with Maria as this wise, gorgeous music tries to heal you. That's West Side Story.

If you like musicals ...
If you like musicals, then I promsie you you will love West Side Story, based losely on the tale of Romeo and Juliet, a stunning story about racial tension, coined a musical comedy, but much more fitting under a category of Musical tradegy. You will cry listening to the love songs, and the song "Cool" almost sweats doom. ... Read more

Reviews (24)

ICK - SAME THING I SAY ABOUT THE OVERBLOWN MOVIE
This soundtrack pales, GREATLY pales, against both the 1999 Disney movie soundtrack and the 1977 Broadway cast. John Huston was the WRONG choice as director, Al Finney as Warbucks can barely sing and why did Houston & the producers dump such winning songs as "NYC," "We'd Like to Thank You, Herbert Hoover," "You Won't Be an Orphan for Long" "Something Was Missing" & "Annie", only to replace them with murch worse songs like "Sign," "Dumb Dog" "We Got Annie" "Sandy" & "Let's Go to the Movies"? UGH! Avoid buying this cd soundtrack & the movie video at all costs. Go out instead & buy the video to the 1999 Disney TV movie. A MUCH better choice...

Great Soundtrack for Young AND Old
I have watched this movie since it came out in 1982, and everytime I see it I love it more. Aileen Quinn has alot of talent...it takes alot of guts to not only act, but to sing too, at the young age she was. The casting couldn't have been any better. I couldn't imagine ANYONE else trying to be like Albert Finney or Carol Burnett. I think the Disney version was a waste of money (JO-COCO). I couldn't even stand to watch it because it ruined "Annie". The acting and the music was AWEFUL. Stick to the original, it will have you humming the tunes long after the movie is over, and the soundtrack is well worth it- for the young or old!

good soundtrack; bad movie
Apart from having some fabulous dyed-in-the-wool Broadway talents among its cast, the dreadful 1982 film of ANNIE is a complete abomination. John Huston clearly had no idea of the original stage version and its quiet charms. The only saving grace for the film was the wonderful cast assembled for it: Carol Burnett (ONCE UPON A MATTRESS, FADE OUT-FADE IN) as the addled orphanage mistress Miss Hannigan, Tim Curry (THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW) as Rooster, Bernadette Peters (INTO THE WOODS, GYPSY, SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE) as Lily St. Regis, and Albert Finney as Daddy Warbucks. Aileen Quinn won the coveted lead role (she was a 'Swing Orphan' during the Broadway run of ANNIE). The orchestrations were handled by Ralph Burns, who managed to retain the energy and oomph that the score had enjoyed on stage. Brand-new numbers written for the film version include "Sign", a comical duet where Miss Hannigan attempts to seduce Mr Warbucks, the truly inane "Dumb Dog" (was ever a song more appropriately named?), "Let's Go to the Movies" (which replaced "NYC"). "We Got Annie" was originally written for the stage but was dropped prior to Broadway. The soundtrack of ANNIE is quite fine however, though the film leaves a lot to be desired. Stick to the 1999 Disney-ABC version instead.

Not as sharp as the Broadway version
First of all, the score is brilliant. Charles Strouse is a mastermind of melodies (Bye Bye Birdie, another example...) and he caputred some of the 30s feel here. The people that are writing in with bad reviews are morons who heard Jay Z's sample of "Hard-Knocked Life" and for some stupid reason bought this soundtrack thinking it would be beats. Jay Z is probably one of the most talented rappers out there but maybe he's a bit too sophisticated for his dumb-ass audience.

With the exception of "Hard-Knocked Life", the original Broadway musical is a better rendition. They added some songs for the movie which are relatively forgettable...I don't know if Strouse was involved in that.

Annie stinks!!!!
do not buy this cd. all of the songs stink and are boring. when i listened to this cd, i threw up. If you want to buy a cd, I would recommend "Confessions" by Usher, or one of Eminems many great cds.

PEACE OUT YO ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Another Great 'New' Dino Concert
A great find - a 'new' dino concert! This one's nice because there's a lot of his concert patter too - few of his mid 60's concerts are around intact, so this is a nice find! The songs, as usual, are terrific but the comedy is a lot of fun to hear too.
Sound quality is really good on this one too!
Wish they'd find more original dino material for us!

kimmmy
dinofan,

Classic Dino... but a little disappointed
First, Dino was one of the best live performers ever bar none! But why oh why, couldn't he come up with some new one liners in the six years or so that his act was captured on tape?If you've heard his Sands concert from February 9th, 1964, or around there.. (the dates vary since the concert is in the public domain and has been issued for years under a variety of different titles), then you've heard this show already.The songs are a bit different, the phrasing is different, but the act is essentially the same.Included are the same old stories about traveling to London to star in "Road To Hong Kong"(a joke he'd been using since 1962!), going to Hawaii,and getting *Lai-d*... get it!?, as well as his politically incorrect humor ex: "I'm unlucky... if they ever cut a woman in half... I'll get the part that eats!"
Then there's the sound quality.. now I love Dino, and I'm grateful for any recordings that are out there... This concert is listenable, and enjoyable.. but when I bought it, I was expecting the same sound quality that was delivered in the two Rat Pack shows, Villa Venice 1962, and At the Sands 1963.Both those shows were professionally recorded by Frank Sinatra's Record label Reprise.. and used several microphones to capture IN STEREO, the ambiance of the room, the audience, as well as the performers on stage.I was expecting the same from this recording... perhaps a Dean Martin performance, recorded for an album but never released.But it appears this is just a reel to reel tape that someone left running on stage on April 4th, 1967.The recording is in mono, though the fidelity is quite good... but it lacks the energy that a stereo recording might have had, if the audience had been included in it.
The packaging is slick.. although why do record labels insist on creating those gatefold paper sleeves for CD's?They scuff easily and don't protect the disc from dust and debris like the jewell cases do.. knock it off guys!
All in all, this concert is for big Dino fans only... I would reccomend starting out with the Rat Pack Live at the Sands.. and work your way to this. ... Read more