Amazon.com essential recording

Ella Fitzgerald's voice was satin to Louis Armstrong's sandpaper, but when you put them together on a single song, their chemistry was unimpeachable. This disc selects highlights from the three albums they made together at Verve (including their Porgy and Bess), and adds a spiffy live track from the Hollywood Bowl. Though they don't harmonize much (Armstrong's voice wasn't built for harmony), Ella's dignified swing and flashes of teasing wit play off Satchmo's gritty, good-humored roar symbiotically. The material is mostly lightweight Tin Pan Alley stuff (lots of Gershwin, plus the likes of "I've Got My Love to Keep Me Warm"), and they fly it like a kite. --Douglas Wolk ... Read more

Reviews (41)

Absolute Perfection
Who would have thought that it could have worked? The pitch-perfect, articulate, and yes, angelic voice of Ella Fitzgerald combined with the gravelly grunts and growls of Louis Armstrong...Two very different singers with very different styles getting together to record? But it does work, and the result is absolute perfection.

The way Louis and Ella blend, harmonize, and play off each other is simply astounding to hear. And I think that's the secret of why these two superstars were such stellar musicians: They loved making music. Just listen to the fun they're having on "Let's Call the Whole Thing Off" and "Gee, Baby, Ain't I Been Good to You." It's not only delightful, it's heavenly. Listen and lose yourself in the slow, unhurried harmonies of "Stars Fell on Alabama." And from the opening, emotion-packed trumpet statement of "Summertime," you know you're in for a powerful listening experience.

It's rare that you find a musician who really, I mean REALLY loves performing. To find two such artists on the same disc? Indescribable. These two greats were put on this earth to make music and they made music with all their might. And we're fortunate enough to have it with us. This disc is heaven. Buy it. Treasure it forever.

TOTAL TIME: 68:03

Perfect album for a summer evening
Ella and Louis provide the perfect soothing music for a summer evening on this cd. Ella's singing is not quite as crisp as I've heard on some other recordings, but these two jazz vocalists compliment each other wonderfully. If you like this, check out Ella's "Best of the Songbooks" or Louis with another jazz genius on the cd "Louis Armstrong Meets Oscar Peterson."

Let's Call the Whole Thing Awesome
This is a truly fantastic collection of classics and there's pretty much nothing I can add to it...it's untouchable. May I recommend lighting some candles, clearing off the floor and swinging away the night with your lovey dovey, socks optional. I mean, this is not a pathetic waste of money or time... you deserve the best, and it doesn't get any better than Ella and Louey!!!

Who Gets Five Stars If Not These Two?
For many, the names of Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong are synonyms for jazz. The two knew each other well but it is rather surprising that they did not record more than three albums together. These are: "Ella and Louis", "Ella and Louis Again" and "Porgy and Bess". In 1997, the Verve label selected the cream of the three albums for this compilation.

Picking the best of the three must have been pretty difficult. But on the other hand, there was nothing to be screwed up, it all sounds so good... As the liner notes say, 'the voices could hardly be more different,' but how well they went together. Smokey, throaty "Pops" and pure, glittering Ella... and THEY DID MUCH OF THIS STUFF WITH JUST ABOUT NO REHEARSAL! Armstrong adds his trumpet to many of the complation's selections, too.

From the first "Ella And Louis" LP, this collection contains "They Can't Take That Away From Me", "Under A Blanket Of Blue", "Tenderly", "Stars Fell On Alabama" and the glorious take of "The Nearness Of You".

Selections from "Ella And Louis Again" are, in my opinion, slightly lacking in comparison with the first album, but, nevertheless, they're still awfully good. Here we have six of them: "Autumn In New York", "Stompin' At The Savoy", "Gee, Baby, Ain't I Good To You", "Let's Call The Whole Thing Off", the wonderful "I've Got My Love To Keep Me Warm" and "Love Is Here To Stay."

As for "Porgy and Bess", no representative selection of Ella and Louis (or even of one of them) would do without the heavenly version of "Summertime." Also, Ella sings "I Wants To Stay Here" and Satchmo has his "There's A Boat Dat's Leavin' Soon For New York" here.

The last track, "You Won't Be Satisfied" was recorded live in front of the audience and is a wonderful treat and the great closer for this impeccable CD.

There could be a lot more to say about this particular album. It should be an essential purchase for any jazz fan. Indeed, for every music fan.

Magical!
I can listen to this CD forever. The magical and silky voice of Ella together with Louis's trumpet and vocals takes you to another world.. I am a jazz fan and this is one of the best CDs that I've ever listened to.. A must-have! ... Read more

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Long considered a jewel in Verve Records' very impressive crown, Fitzgerald's songbook collections of various composers--a series that was started by the success of this set--are all wonderful, but her natural wit and intelligence was at its most perfect with Cole Porter's erudite, urbane songs. While not as scat-oriented as her small group outings, these Porter sets offer her most realized pop performances.Also, the gold remastering does a fine job of bringing out the nuances in the arrangements, making this a treasure for the serious collector and the casual listener alike. A true American music gem. --Skip Heller ... Read more

Reviews (23)

You MUST Get This CD! There's nothing better than this.
Oh Ella! I wish I could tell her how much I have enjoyed this CD. She is the stuff dreams are made of. That voice! How did you do it Ella? So effortless for you. Incredible. This is my all time favorite CD. I listen to all kinds of music and cannot go a day without hearing Ella sing Cole Porter. Don't hesitate to buy this- you'll listen to it the rest of your life. Cole Porter's lyrics pour out of her so perfectly. Those songs were made for her to sing! Her phrasing is impeccable. I just cannot express how amazing this Songbook is. BUY IT!

Ella Shows Why She Reigns! 1st Lady of Song!!!!
All 30-plus tunes here are just fine. Some not quite great but about a dozen all time winners, even in these over-recorded Cole Porter songs. There's nice notes too, and spirited arrangements by Buddy Bregman. Most of these could have been recorded tomorrow, much less 1956!! My favorites?! ALL THRU THE NIGHT, a slow swinger, ANYTHING GOES, including the seldom heard intro, a real swinger, as good as Frank's version the same year. TOO DARN HOT,super hot, even better than Ann Miller's version in KISS ME KATE (but as a dancer Ann can't be beat!)LETS DO IT!, I LOVE PARIS, YOU DO SOMETHING TO ME, the best version I've heard, RIDIN HIGH, another super hot blaster, YOURE THE TOP, as good as Crosby's best version (PS Do they write songs like this anymore?!)..LOVE FOR SALE, different with its haunting,brooding style, and I like the horns here which IMHO are not dated! ITS DELOVELY another super hot ball of fire. NIGHT AND DAY, the 2nd best swing version (after Frank's version), ACE IN THE WHOLE yet another super hot ace! Maybe a few are not among the best recordings of many recorded ditties, still mainly aces...I prefer Ella's Gershwin songbook, with more songs, and more less known ones, but this costs less, and is surely a fine start!!

FLOATING ON A STARLIGHT CEILING
Ella Fitzgerald could sing about a garbage dump and make it sound beautiful. This CD is a great collaboration between the voice of Ella and the songwriting genius of Cole Porter. Ella was definitely the first lady of song and will be the last. No other singer on this planet comes close to her style, diction and her amazing scats. Her incredible voice, the timeless lyrics by Cole Porter and the great production talent of Norman Grantz makes this a CD to play over and over again.

Here's a reason to stay alive, if you're looking for one.
So count your blessings. They don't make records like this any more.

The Perfect Combination
Ella is the best jazz singer ever and Cole Porter was certainly one of the best composers of his time. This is an amazing CD. Any jazz lover will adore it. ... Read more

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In light of all the hit Broadway musicals that have stumbled in their translation to the big screen, The Music Man stands out as an exception; it is one of the best-loved movie musicals of all time. A great deal of the credit goes to composer Meredith Willson, who resisted studio pressure to hire a big name for the title role (Frank Sinatra or Cary Grant) in favor of the Tony-winning stage star, Robert Preston, who turns in one of Hollywood's most magical performances as the spellbinder who hoodwinks a small town in Iowa. Shirley Jones did not perform the show on Broadway, but she had cut her teeth as a musical ingenue in the films of Rodgers and Hammerstein's Oklahoma! and Carousel and gives Marian the librarian a lovely voice and charming personality. Most importantly, Willson's score combines marching bands and barbershop quartets to capture perfectly the spirit of America's heartland at the turn of the century. A classic. --David Horiuchi ... Read more

Reviews (22)

The "Only" Music Man
Among the many fine things which can be said regarding this Original Soundtrack Recording of "The Music man", the most impressive would be to simply say "Robert Preston"! Robert Preston IS The Music Man - the one and only Music Man! Robert didn't simply perform this role . . . he was the personification of The Music Man. I really can't imagine any one else coming even close to his characterization. Just listen to Preston's delivery of "Ya Got Trouble" and every thing you need to know about "The Music man" is there!
This album has it all: great "marching band music", great performers like Shirley Jones, Buddy Hackett, The Buffalo Bills, and Robert Preston, and great songs. (The Buffalo Bills/Shirley Jones' "Lida Rose/Goodnight My Someone" sticks in your musical mind and you find yourself humming and singing it throughout the day/night for inexplicable reasons at the oddest times.
I have loved this recording since it was first issued. On cd it keeps the beauty of this music and these performers more alive than ever.

Wonderful, but could be better.
This is a great soundtrack, but it is unfortunate that Warner's did not give us more on the CD than the standard LP 44 minutes. For instance, there is extensive dance music in the "76 Trombones", "Marian the Librarian", and the "Shipoopi" numbers that could have been included on the CD, and wasn't. And although I do admire Shirley Jones, and she was a beautiful Marian, Barbara Cook was more believeable in the look of a small-town spinster librarian, and her voice is one of the greatest that the musical world has ever heard. Shirley Jones' singing is pleasant, Barbara Cook's singing is thrilling. But, Barbara Cook had as much a chance of recreating her Broadway role as Julie Andrews, Angela Lansbury and Ethel Merman did in "My Fair Lady", "Mame" and "Gypsy". Hollywood has never appreciated true musical talent. But, this is a fun album. Buddy Hackett is a bit hard to take, but Hermione Gingold is a treasure.

I love it! (With the occasional disappointment)
I absolutely love this soundtrack--I think the songs are even better on the album than in the movie. However, as most of us feel...Shipoopi (I didn't like the song to begin with) sung by Buddy Hackett? What? That was disappointing. But it's worth a listen, just for my personal favorites: 76 Trombones (of course), Goodnight My Someone, and Till There was You.

This is a CD I keep returning to--it's marvelous...one of a small list of musicals I truly enjoy listening to. You'll find something you really like--I'm sure of it. Highly recommended.

Great Performances/ Painful Sound !!
I don't fault the performances of Robert Preston, Shirley Jones, etc..... they're all great. My major complaint with this movie soundtrack is the harsh sound quality. There is too much treble and not enough balance in the mid to lower range. The result is a recording that is actually painful to the ears. I believe a much better remastering job is needed. Am I the only reviewer who noticed this? Beware.

Music Man is better than ANYTHING!!!
This is THE BEST music I have ever heard! I listen to the soundtrack all the time, and I love it so much that it is severely worn out. I would definately reccomend this to anyone who likes good quality music. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential recording

You could fill box set after box set with Nat "King" Cole's work--and those are certainly out there--and never hit a less-than-stellar note. But for the creme de la creme, it'd be hard to fault this career-spanning, 22-song retrospective. From the swinging jump blues of "Straighten Up and Fly Right" to the easy lope of his definitive "Route 66" to the lush balladry of "Mona Lisa," every facet of the great singer-pianist's is explored. Bookended by Cole's original version of "Unforgettable" and his posthumous duet with daughter Natalie, this collection provides an ideal introduction to--or a stirring reminder of--Nat "King" Cole's legacy. --David Sprague ... Read more

Reviews (24)

Issues with the package and sound but never with the music
Nat King Cole is an American icon. Some sixty years later his early recordings with the King Cole Trio are still highly regarded by jazz afficianados around the world. And many of his solo efforts remain among the best loved songs of all time.
This collection contains some of both. If you have never heard the King Cole Trio, you are certainly in for a treat. Among the selections included here are the incredible "Straighten Up and Fly Right" from 1943 as well as other favorites like "You Call It Madness (But I Call It Love) and one of the great standards "(I Love You) For Sentimental Reasons)". This 22 track disc also includes some his biggest hits as a solo artist including "Mona Lisa", "Ramblin' Rose" and of course "Unforgettable". Also included here is the hit 1991 duet version of "Unforgettable" with his daughter Natalie where Nat's vocals were dubbed in from the original 1952 hit.
While one is hard pressed to criticize the music of Nat King Cole this collection does have some considerable flaws. First of all, there are absolutely no liner notes. Now I realize that there are literally hundreds of releases available by Nat King Cole but considering that this one is called "The Greatest Hits" you would think that Capitol might feel compelled to offer a short biography and/or discography of the man. After all, he spent his entire recording career on Capitol and was really that labels bread and butter for two decades. Secondly, it is worth noting that these recordings do not appear to have been remastered. Older fans would probably not have a big problem with this and may prefer to hear these songs the way they remember them. However, I mention it because it may well be an issue for some listeners.
But make no mistake about it, this is still a wonderful collection of the music of Nat King Cole. I was disappointed though that my very favorite Nat King Cole tune of all time "That Sunday, That Summer" was not included here. Nat King Cole died in 1965. I distinctly remember my mother crying when she heard the news. He remains one of the most beloved figures in American music history. So whether you choose this particular disc or decide on something else you will probably not be disappointed.

More class than ALL'a today's performers put together...
Along with Sammy Davis, Jr., Nat King Cole is somebody I was introduced to by my pops, who would play these records to death when I was a lil' kid in the early '80s, an' even I couldn't get enough of 'em. In fact, this is the first singer that I distincty remember enjoying as a child. An' now, even today, I can't say enough praises about this man. Nat King Cole simply put could not make a bad song. Whether it was in the tenderness of his flawless voice or in the sweet sounds of his piano, his tones have never been matched and I can hardly think of any performer in the past century of music on his level. From the heartfelt ballads to the finger-snapping swingers all of these songs are great. The timeless standard 'Unforgettable' (jus' try an' find a romantic comedy without that joint!), 'Route 66 (Get Your Kicks On)', 'Walkin' My Baby Back Home', 'Ramblin' Rose', 'For Sentimental Reasons (I Love You)', 'Too Young', an' all the rest are jus' irreplaceable. As much as I enjoy big band music and fully-equipped orchestras and arrangements, I've always found sumpin' soothing and comforting in just hearing Cole's gentle voice coupled with his equally-gentle piano over anything else. But my personal favorite song by him has actually been retained from my childhood, an' thas' 'Orange Colored Sky'. Is' one'a my favorite songs of all time, an' anytime I hear it playin' I will sit an' listen to it. Even if I'm in the most irritable an' don't-mess-with-me-or-I'll-break-your-face mood in the world I will sit there an' yell "FLASH! BAM! ALAKAZAM!" with a big ol' smile. If you are just being introduced to his work, then this is a great purchase to make as your starter. Another great one is the album 'After Midnight Sessions' culled from his recordings with his jazz trio, and the untouchable classic 'Christmas Song' album. All in all, this is a great collection, probably THE best 'greatest hits' album of ALL TIME. An' it will find a permanent place in any true music fan's collection. You got no class if it doesn't.

The Greatest Hits is not so great.
To begin with, the song "The Very Thought of You", one of his most beautiful songs, is not even included. Then, "Nature Boy" is not the stereo version, but a 1940's mono version in inferior sound. The whole cd is badly produced. After I bought this cd and found it sadly lacking, I purchased the cd titled "Unforgettable Nat King Cole" (on Capitol,released 2000). It has all of the great hits in stereo and in perfect sound. It should receive the 5 star rating. Why people should rate the "Greatest Hits" album 5 stars is beyond me. It should get at most 2 stars. I'm sorry I was snookered into buying it. I can always use it as a coffee coaster.

good stuff
realy enjoy thes songs nat has a nack in music ramblin rose especially and bon natale nataly real good also i like music everything from a-z &0-9 +_)(*&^%$#@!~

He's my man but
Wonderful selection of his hit songs, but not re-mastered...sounds pretty weak, much better try his "Loved Songs" now that's my man! ... Read more

Reviews (25)

A soundtrack you just can't miss out on!!
The 1956 soundtrack to the movie version of the musical "The King And I" is truely a classic.
The soundtrack has recently been remastered with a better sound quality, and bonus tracks, and most of all the complete movie version of the ballet "The Small House Of Uncle Thomas".

The soundtrack includes the voices Deborah Kerr and Marni Nixon as the singing voice of Anna. Marni dubbed the singing parts, and Deborah did the speaking parts of the songs.
Yul Brynner as the king. Rita Moreno and Leona Gordon as the singing voice of Tuptim. Leona Gordon slightly augmented some of Ritas parts on her songs. We have Terry Saunders as Lady Thiang. Ruben Fuentes who dubbed the singing voice of Carlos Rivas in the role of Tuptim. And features Rex Thompson as Louis.
Those are all the voices you will hear on the soundtrack.

The soundtrack starts off with the Main Title. Next is Anna and Louis with "I Whistle A Happy Tune", where Anna teaches her son what do when afraid. Next is the beautiful "My Lord And Master" sung by Tuptim, where Tuptim sings how this King knows nothing about her, and how he may think shes just for him, he'll never know she loves another man. Rita Moreno does a beautiful job with the song and sadly was cut out of the movie. Next is "The March Of The Siamese Children", where the children are presented to Anna. Next is the underscoring of "Anna And The Royal Wives", followed by Anna's "Hello, Young Lovers", which is one of the most touching song in the score, where Anna sings to the Royal Wives how she once had a love of her own. Next is the kings "The Puzzlement", where hes states his confusions about his conflicts. Next is one of the most popular songs from the movie "Getting To Know You", where Anna sings to the Royal Children and Wives about getting to know them. Next is the underscoring "Garden Rendezvous". Next is Lun Tha's and Tuptim's beautiful "We Kiss In The Shadow", where the two lovers sing how they barely have any time to be with eachother, and hope for one day to be free. The song is mixed with "I Have Dreamed", their other duet, how they have dreams of them being together. Next is Anna's comical soliquy "Shall I Tell You What I Think Of You?". This is one song where you will hear Deborah and Marni going back and forth with the vocals, you can barely tell the difference. Next is the extremely touching "Something Wonderful", sung by Lady Thiang where she tells Anna deep down the king is truely something wonderful. Next is the "Prayer To Buddha", where The King and everyone pray to Buddha about the British comming. The British have arrived and Anna and her old friend Sir Edward see eachother and dance to the "Waltz of Anna and Sir Edward". Next is the beautiful ballet "The Small House of Uncle Thomas", narrated by Tuptim and sung with the Chorus, the ballet is Tuptims version of the story of "Uncle Toms Cabin". Next is the "Song Of The King", sung by The King and Anna, where the King expresses how many women belong to one man. Thats followed by another popular song, "Shall We Dance", where the magic start to spark between the King and Anna. Next is the underscoring "The Letter". The closing track is the "Something Wonderful REPRISE" sung by the chorus. The bonus track is the LP version of the "Overture".

Those are all the tracks, and they are amazing. Only a few songs from the score are missing including "Royal Bangkok Academy", Lady Thiang and Wives "Western People Funny", The Prince and Louis' "A Puzzlement REPRISE", And a few other Reprises are missing.

Overall, this classic soundtrack is worth it! You just have to own this classic.

Magnificent recording of classic R and H score
The film version of "The King and I" is one of the best (and best-loved) filmizations of a Rodgers and Hammerstein musical, and for good reason. With that wonderful, melodic score so superbly orchestrated, Yul Brynner magnificently recreating his (and I do mean HIS) stage role of the King, and the wonderful Deborah Kerr as Anna, how can you miss? The soundtrack of the film is equally good, with the lovely orchestrations and performances of the songs retained beautifully. Marni Nixon, the legendary "ghost singer," dubs Deborah Kerr, in her most successful assignment to date as far as integrating her voice with Kerr's goes, (magnificently demonstrated in "Shall I Tell You What I Think of You," a great song unfortunatly cut from the film). She is also in peak voice, too, and sounds beautiful. Brynner's two songs, the great "A Puzzlement" and "Song of the King," are fine, as well, though he doesn't dominate the CD as he did the movie. But then, why complain about that, with so many other good things to make up for it? With such charming, beautiful songs as "Hello, Young Lovers," "Getting to Know You," and, of course, "Shall We Dance," all superbly performed by Nixon, as well as a good supporting cast of singers. Leona Gordon "augments" the voice of Rita Moreno's Tuptim, and though she falters a little bit when hitting the high notes of "My Lord and Master," (also cut from the film) otherwise her voice is beautiful, nicely bolestering a less-than-steller Reuben Feuntes (who dubbed Carlos Rivas's Lun Tha) during the beautiful "We Kiss In A Shadow" and "I Have Dreamed." (The last song, also cut; a shame) And Terry Saunders' Lady Thaing gives a beautiful, moving reading of "Something Wonderful," as well. One of the best recordings available of a classic R and H score, and not to be missed.

VERY GOOD WORK, but no MUSICAL NOTES
EXCELLENT WORK... However, we wanted to play this songs by ourselves, but there are no musical notes. That is the only missing part.

beautiful musical!
great and beautiful songs. It's a lovely soundtrack to a grand musical. Marni Nixon has such a beautiful and clear voice, so lovely and feminine. Yul Brynner has a wonderful masuline voice, very beautiful. All the tracks sound really good. It has some of the most beautiful and remembered songs on it, like, "Hello Young Lovers," and "Shall we Dance."

Beautiful Music. Mediocre sound quality.
This is one of my favorite musicals and it is a delight to have this recording. The sound quality is lacking, however. They could have done a better job with the remastering. ... Read more

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"If you wanna hear me sing serious, buy an album," Dean Martin says early in this 70-minute disc, underlining his point by deliberately mangling the last word's pronunciation. Issued to catch the wave of Steven Soderbergh's remake of the Pack's romp, Ocean's 11, Live at the Sands is the second official issue of a Martin/Frank Sinatra/Sammy Davis Jr. show. This September 1963 date, though, is nimbler and funnier than the previous year's set preserved on The Summit in Concert. Some of the same jokes are told, but this Vegas jaunt adds at least one new running gag (Dino's brief rendition of "It's My Party"), and Sammy also gets a few racially tinged zingers off in return for those of his partners. Oh, and lest we forget, there's good music. Martin actually plays it straight on two Guys and Dolls duets with Sinatra, who also turns in a half-dozen strong performances on his own. Plenty of mystique is present, but Sands captures the trio hard at work as well. --Rickey Wright ... Read more

Reviews (41)

This is the One
"Ladies and Gentlemen - direct from the bar, Dean Martin!"

And with that sendoff begins one of the best live recorded cds I've ever heard. Recorded in 1963 during one of the many live performances at the Sands Hotel in Las Vegas, more than a CD, this is a time capsule of a bygone era - a swingin' and much less serious time, before the assasination of JFK and the turbulant Sixties began. Frank, Deano, and Sammy are absolutely on top of their game.

The Rat Pack mythology was shaped during the filming of "Ocean's 11" in early 1960. The five leading men - Frank, Dean, Sammy, Peter Lawford, and Joey Bishop - filmed during the day and then gathered onstage at the Sands Hotel at night. These "Summit Meetings" as Sinatra called them, not only galvanized Las Vegas as thousands of visitors poured into the gambling mecca without a prayer of getting a room reservation, but also made headlines and piqued imaginations as news reverberated around the world.

The Rat Pack's support of Senator John F. Kennedy (Lawford's brother-in-law) in his bid for the presidency became a cornerstone of his campaign, even as he was a ringside visitor at their shows. It was a moment in time, in history, never to be repeated. "There they were," writes Bill Zehme in his liner notes to THE RAT PACK LIVE AT THE SANDS, "twice nightly, without fail, tearing it up together through the dinner show at eight and back again at midnight, primed for even greater mayhem and off-color foolery."

The audio quality of this CD is fantastic and the music and dialogue sound great. The guys are absolutely irreverant, witty, and have a great time with the audience and eachother. Stand-up, impressions, music, cocktails - everybody is having a blast, the Rat Pack included, and it comes through loud and clear on this CD.

There are other Rat Pack CDs out there - a lot in fact, but NONE that truly capture their very essence like this one. Listen to this one and prepare to be taken back and find out what it was all about.

One of my 5 favorite CDs
This CD is a slice of history. It is a modified version of the act that Dean, Frank and Sammy came up with to perform at the "Summit" in early 1960.

If you're just after straight music, there are plenty of other CDs to choose from.

As for me, I'll go with the live recordings because they are just that, *ALIVE*. Frank, Dean and Sammy are still as vibrant on the recording as they were in early September, 1963. If you want to laugh at crazy jokes, hear Sammy's incredible impressions or sing along with the timeless tunes, this is the album.

After listening to this CD, I'm hooked on LIVE Rat Pack recordings (I'm in the process of collecting all I can find). I just wish someone would come up with a video of what was happening on stage. I someone makes a DVD, I'll buy it!

If this sounds interesting and you like Sammy, I particularly recommend "Sammy Davis Jr. At the Cocoanut Grove" (recorded in 1962, Reprise). Its all Sammy (although I did mistake Sammy's impressions of Frank for Mr. Sinatra the first few times through.)

:-)

If you love a good time, this CD is guranteed to "leave you swinging..."

Best of the Rat Pack
This cd is a real treat. It's like stepping back in time for an evening of great entertainment. The music, singing, and jokes are all great. This cd is vastly better all around than the Live and Swingin' set (which I also bought just for the dvd). If you are a fan of the Rat Pack or just want to know what all the fuss was about, buy it and enjoy.

Drink To Me Only...
One of their shows. Astonishing! Jokes about booze, jews, negros, italians, gangsters,... and songs! Very nice! Some of jokes are repeated from previous performances and some are new!

This is Great
I've had this CD for a while now, and I love it! It's hilarious. It seems to me that life was much more carefree before Political Correctness took over. I really don't think the Rat Pack would be allowed to put on a performance like this today. It's excellent, if you don't have it, buy it. Trust me, it's not a waste of money. (Unless you hate the Ratpack) ... Read more

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Barbra Streisand's bravado made her one of the 1960s' overnight sensations. This 40-cut compendium traces her recording career from early tracks that frequently relay her subtlety to often impressive accommodations with soft rock and still later vibrato-fests that find her taxing the limits of performer's ego and listeners' ears. The narrative is one of direct, sometimes showy, emotion giving way to empty displays of technique. By 1983's icky anthem "A Piece of Sky," Streisand has plowed under the light touches of "Lover, Come Back to Me" and the triumphal Central Park version of "Happy Days Are Here Again." Where she produced schlock masterworks when teamed with Neil Diamond ("You Don't Bring Me Flowers") and Donna Summer ("Enough Is Enough") in the '70s, a diva summit with Celine Dion led to the car wreck of 1997's "Tell Him." Essential wraps up with previously unreleased takes of "Someday My Prince Will Come" and "You'll Never Walk Alone." --Rickey Wright ... Read more

Reviews (91)

It Hasn't Left the CD Player!
It's hard to imagine one album that would so completely encapsulate the career of Barbra Streisand... but this essential collection does so wonderfully. It's appropriate that Barbra begin the collection with "A Sleepin' Bee"... her 1st broadway song. All of the early classics are here, though I am surprised at the inclusion of "I Stayed Too Long at the Fair". I would have picked "Starting Here, Starting Now". The 70's are well reflected on this 1st disc as well. "Stoney End" is a personal favorite. Even Barbra's two disco classics are included! It's amazing to see the diversity of songs she has recorded. Ballads, pop, disco, broadway, film. All are well respresented here. I would have foregone "Lazy Afternoon" in favor of "Songbird" or "Prisoner". The 2nd disc starts with Barbra's #1 "Woman In Love" and touches base on most of her noteworthy songs up to the present day. I would have preferred the live version of "As If We Never Said Goodbye" and teh inclusion of "Left in the Dark" but this collection was most special because of the two new additional songs. It must have been difficult to pick from well over 50 albums and find the 40 best songs. Barbra's voice is such an incredible instrument. The power, majesty and beauty are still there as strong as ever before. This is a perfect 40th Anniversary collection. Now I look forward to a new album of contemporary songs. Perhaps a "Guilty Again" or a
"Broadway Album - Act III". Perhaps an album of uptempo songs
a la Cher or a Pet Shop Barbra such as was done for Liza Minelli. Gay men have always been Barbra's most ardent fans and it would be incredible to hear Barbra's voice back on the dance floor after all these years. Sure it would be a commercial venture but would also be great fun. Barbra has long said she has wanted to give something back to the gay community. Forget about a film which would be seen and promptly forgotten. Her fans fell in love with her voice 1st and that is the part of her talent that will endure the longest. An album of fun high-energy anthem type songs perhaps mixed with a couple of contemporary power ballads would be magic... perhaps entitled "NightLight". If only Barbra would realize how many fans love her dance songs she wouldn't be so hesitant. It seems she hasn't forgotten the floundering "Emotion" album, but hey, that had 3 charting singles and MTV airplay, so how bad was that? I'm sure whatever Streisand does, it will continue to enthrall the millions of people who've been enchanted by the gifts of this extraordinary woman.

America's Best Selling Female Vocalist - A Collection
Barbra Streisand's four decades of beautiful music are perfectly captured on this sterling two CD set. Disc One introduces us to 60's Streisand, a new star who would the standard for standards at a time when the prevailing taste in pop music was the Beatles. Her passionate and powerful renditions of "Happy Days Are Here Again", "He Touched Me" and "On A Clear Day" set the stage for America's most beloved female vocalist. The latter half of this disc captures Barbra in exquisite vocal form as her voice matures and loses its early "reed" like quality in favor of a more powerful and melodic vibrato. The 70's showcases her successful forays into various styles of music from light rock ("Stoney End") to disco ("The Main Event/Fight") and cements her status as America's premier interpreter of loved songs ("Evergreen").

Disc II captures Streisand at the zenith of her sales career with the songs from her brillant collaboration with Barry Gibb. From there her music finds a deeper & richer showcase in the songs from her film "Yentl". Barbra's best album of the 80's, "The Broadway Album" is well represented here and finds Barbra returning to her musical roots and reestablsihing herself as the ultimate interpreter of Broadway standards. Even the start of the 90's has Barbra continuing this theme with songs from "Back to Broadway". The latter half of the 90's teams Barbra with Bryan Adams and Celine Dion in memorable pop confections.

The two new songs included here ("Someday My Prince Will Come" and "You'll Never Walk Alone") both recorded in 2000 are superb. Her new rendition of "You'll Never Walk Alone" is in itself reason enough to buy the album!

Her fortcoming album "Duets" will feature performances with Josh Groban ("All I Know Of Love") and Barry Manilow ("I Won't Be the One To Let Go"). If reviews of her latest live performance on 9/30/02 are any indiction, Barbra is in "better than ever" voice and it would seem that there are many more golden moments for Barbra to come!

For those who choose to critique Barbra the photo or Barbra the person with childish and inappropraite remarks... all I can say is... are they running low on Zoloft or something? Get a grip!

Chris Sullivan

I only sing for the money
Once in a book Streisand it was written that Streisand said I only sing for the money. Well it is very clear that it is true for this emotionally barron diva, lacks any conviction, though she is technically gifted, she doesn't show any real passion or convictuin in her singing, just pure shallowness...

terrible,i despise it
please dont buy or listen to this horrible double disc compilation of fourty of the lousiest,atrocious horrid,horrible,crappy throwaway songs you will hear.you will get better box sets than this so avoid this disaster at all costs.get the box set of black sabbath instead.

Fabulous! I love it!
There are female singers, and there is Barbra Streisand, who is a total goddess. She sings, performs, acts, directs, and produces. She is, in a word, amazing. I'd eat off the ground she walks on! This collection is fabulous. You gotta get it. Buy now! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Tom Jones all but invented saucy power pop back before the sixties even started to swing when his second single "It's Not Unusual" rocketed up the UK charts in 1965. After that initial triumph the singer never looked back, tying his hair back with a thin black ribbon and putting some rather expressive body English into his stage moves, which assured that the stage floor would be routinely pelted with various undergarments pitched by enthusiastic fans. Almost four decades later both Jones and his audience are no less fervent as Wales' second-most famous export runs through his extensive and varied songbook, still imbuing his old chestnuts like "What's New Pussycat?" and "Delilah" with a sense of naughty fun and irony. But Jones is at his best while giving the latest generation of rockers a run for their money, as he pairs up with the likes of Wyclef Jean, the Sterophonics, Art of Noise, the Cardigans, and Mousse T; as he overhauls staid tired standards like "Mama Told Me (Not To Come)" or "Baby It's Cold Outside" with his arch humor and gutsy delivery. Prince's "Kiss" crackles with an inner light that even the great Minneapolis savant didn’t intend, while his duet with Portishead is as cold and disturbing as a grave. A must have album. --Jaan Uhelszki ... Read more

Reviews (13)

Tom Jones proves he still has it!
This is a wonderful cd and a must have for all Tom Jones fans.It
includes some of Tom's older songs with the perfect blend of his
newer ones.Sexbomb and Kiss are both destined to become Tom Jones classics.My husband and I had the pleasure of seeing Tom in
Las Vegas a couple of years ago.Trust me,Tom is still "Burning
Down the House"

The voice, the man, the power...
Okay, I'm not a long-time Tom Jones fan. In fact, I like country music (which is why I absolutely loved "Green, Green Grass of Home," by the way). However, Tom Jones is one of those guys who transcends genres. And I'm living proof that even a country boy knows how to get it on!

Okay, after that corny statement (I'm not too sure what it means, either), let me tell you about the music of this CD. If you're a Tom Jones fan, this review is probably pointless; you know the quality of the music you're going to get, and you're anxious to get it. If you're new, like me, then you might want to read on.

The album's three best (in my opinion) are: "It's Not Unusual" (of course), "Kiss" (a little pop, but hey, he's versitile), and "Sometimes We Cry" (a duet with Van Morrison, a stellar performance from both men).

Okay. I won't go into each song by detail; there's 19 of them, and that could take a while. Let me just describe to you the range of styles this man has: from the classics "She's a Lady" and "What's New Pussycat," to the pop "Kiss," to the rockers "Mama Told Me Not To Come" and "Burning Down the House," to the hiphop of "Tom Jones International" and "Black Betty," to the country of "Green Green Grass of Home" and "Without Love," to the blues of "Motherless Child." He even gets a little spy action with the theme to "Thunderball."

Quite a guy.

Except for the Van Morrison duet, Jones is best when he's on his own. Still, you should enjoy these songs; they're timeless, they're priceless, and they are truly classics. Tom Jones: one heck of a performer, one heck of a guy, one dandy album.

Something about a nearly 60 year old singing Sex Bomb...
is a little weird. He's now 60, but almost was when he recorded that song. It works. This album is full of great tunes that showcase his unique voice. The duets that he features here from his album "Reloaded" were hits in the UK, and sound great. I like the old stuff here. "She's A Lady" sounds great today as it ever did.

Tom Jones is truly living legend.
We loved this album. The duets were wonderful and when Tom and Van Morrison get going there is nothing better..

GREAT STUFF!!!!!!!!
Tom Jones has one of the best voices of the last 40 years. I wish he had done a duet with his pal Elvis Presley!Great cd! ... Read more

Reviews (11)

A "Politically Correct" Compilation?
A 2-CD "best of" compilation for Billie Holiday without "Strange Fruit" doesn't make sense, but historically record labels have been reluctant to include this song. I wonder whether their reasoning is that the song's lyrics, about the lynching and hanging of a black from a tree, are unsuitable for mainstream audiences, which implies that they thought Holiday had crossed the line from blues or jazz (I think she's a blues singer through and through) to pop. After all, many blues recordings contain lyrics just as if not more gruesome than "Strange Fruit", but that doesn't result in their getting left off the compilation disks. If we can't hear the Holiday version of "Strange Fruit", then the soundtrack to "Lady Sings the Blues" by Diana Ross has a version of the song that is pretty convincing.

regarding the absence "Strange Fruit"
A couple reviewers remarked about the absence of "Strange Fruit" from this compilation. The reason for its absence is very simple: Billie did not record the song for Columbia. If you want "Strange Fruit," get _The Commodore Master Takes_ or the Verve compilation _Lady in Autumn_.

"Strange Fruit" is missing because Columbia was afraid to touch it in the late 30s, not because of any current "political correctness." I'm pretty sure they'd love to have the song now.

Most major jazz artists recorded for many different labels, so "best of" and "greatest hits" compilations usually aren't as comprehensive as we might wish them to be. Usually you have to buy two or three different sets to touch on all the major bases.

Descent Compilation
Apart from the fact that some of my favorite Billie Holiday songs are missing...its still a very good intro to those first timers. I first heart HOliday when I was 18 years old..and 5 years later...I still can't get enough of her ...she's such a great singer...along with Ella Fitzgerald she is the only one who can bring me to tears.

Incomplete Sampler
Far from being a jazz buff, I'd still take issue with the other recommendations of this set to be a sufficient Billie Holiday sampler for the general public. The single most important reason - it's missing "STRANGE FRUIT".

It is Jazz's "Guernica", and therefore belongs in *any* Billie Holiday collection.

The Ultimate Billie Holiday collection!!!
I have so enjoyed this album! All the favorite jazz songs sung by the beautiful crooning voice of Holiday! If you are a jazz fan, you don't want to miss this CD! ... Read more

Reviews (77)

Wonderful addition to anyone's CD library
I first fell in love with Steve Tyrell's music through the movie Father of The Bride. This put me on a mission to seek out all he had produced. My library is full of every Steve Tyrell CD there is. His music is the perfect accompaniment to a night at home alone or with friends. He sets the atmosphere in a positive, warm way like no other artist can. I love his music and anxiously await yet another fantastic CD.

With a little help from his friend...
There simply is no such thing as a bad album from Steve Tyrell who has brought back so many of the songs I loved while growing up. He has a universal appeal to all ages -- maybe sex appeal, maybe happiness showing through, which is, in and of itself, very appealing. The music is magnificent and personal, as if he is singing it to you. Alas, I hope it won't change since just about the time the CD was released, his Stephanie lost her several-year battle with cancer and died in his arms. She was truly his partner, inspiration, and helped get him from producing records to singing, both of which he has done flawlessly. I have all of his CDs and hope he continues to make them but, more than that, hope he knows that so many of us will treasure what we have, until he is ready to make more music.
I would recommend that anyone get this album -- it's beautiful, wonderful, and truly a tribute to love.

Soothing and Enchanting Voice
The first time I heard Steve Tyrell's music was on the internet radio. And since then I became one of his fans. It was October 2003, My dad bought this album for me and I was enjoying listen to this album 'till now. My favorite tune in this album is "This guy's in love", he re-arranged the living legend of easy listening composer, Burt Bacharach. In this album, steve's successfully re-arranged and sang all the songs with compassionate, soothing and enchanting voice that you will listen to it over and over again. This CD is highly recommended for those of you like some of these great vocalists such as Michael Buble, Tony Bennet, Frank Sinatra, Dianna Krall and many other great vocalists. I guarantee you wouldn't regret it !!

Love this CD!
I first saw Steve Tyrell on the "Today" show doing an interview w/Katie Couric re: the death of his wife from colon cancer. While I was quite touched by his loss I was blown away by the snippets of music they aired of this CD.
I received it yesterday and I cannot tell you how many times I have played it ... over and over and over again. I rarely read who producers or arranges music on cd's, but I had to know, I love this cd that much. Kudos to all involved. This is one sexy cd. It reached that romantic part of me that we have all experienced in that first rush of new love, no matter what age you happen to be. It makes me feel happy, glowing, girlish.

I've purcahsed Rod Stewart's "All American Songbook"and Michael Buble's first cd and while they were both OK, I hardly listen to them. I've already put in my Amazon cart another of Steve TYrell's CD's. What a rush! BUY IT.

With Style And Elegance, Steve Tyrell Leads The Way!
Steve Tyrell can really sing! With his latest release "This Guy's In Love", he demonstrates his musical prowess, as he effortlessly performs 14 complimentary selections, and leads the way back to the wonderful tunes from the Great American Songbook. His original interpretations of these classic songs breaths new-life into them, and once again validates the obvious; these beautifully written tunes are truly timeless. It is challenging to do justice to this music, but as always Steve has proven his musical worth and given us a great album to enjoy over and over again.

If you LOVE listening to GREAT CROONERS and BIG BAND SWING, I would also recommend, Monte Procopio "Swingin' With Style" CD. He is another great crooner that can really SWING and deserves a listen. Buy both these CDs, you can't go wrong! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Lions and tigers and bears, the yellow brick road, gamboling midgets, warnings scrawled high above by a skywriting witch: No movie ever imprinted itself on young imaginations or endured in adult memory more than MGM's classic 1939 musical, and no movie score ever hooked as forcefully into our collective cultural memory.This exemplary soundtrack finally treats this deserved classic to a thoughtful and comprehensive rendering (an even more detailed, expanded version was also released simultaneously as a deluxe box) that confirms the enduring power of Harold Arlen's original music and E. Y. "Yip" Harburg's lyrics. On film, the songs unreeled as a mixture of discreet songs and multi-themed medleys with frequent reprises, a presentation preserved here, epitomized in the "Munchkinland Musical Sequence." If not as concise as Bobby McFerrin's legendary, hilarious concert compression of the entire musical story, this telling of The Wizard of Oz relives the film just as vividly. "Over the Rainbow" is here, of course, precisely where it should be in the sequence, as as timelessly luminous and wistful as ever. --Sam Sutherland ... Read more

Reviews (17)

The WONDERFUL Wizard of Oz
This is a wonderful recording of the classic movie. If you love the movie then you will love this cd. All of the songs are on it including the Jitterbug which was cut from the movie. Judy Garland is outstanding like always. This cd should be in everyone's collection.

great for any oz fan
great for any oz fan!all the songs from the original movie.any wizard of oz lover would be delited.great music!not any cut or shortened songs.wonderful.brings back many memories.best cd i have heard!

A Soundtrack Good For People of All Ages!
The Wizard of Oz is a great movie, one of the best musicals ever made and this is a good soundtrack with the wonderful songs from the movie and I highly recommend to fans of all ages of ths classic gem of a movie!

A fantastic soundtrack with great sound quality
I don't get why other reviews bash the sound quality. I think it's just fine, myself. But oh well.

I previously owned this soundtrack on cassette tape in a few incarnations, most recently this version, which was my favorite. But sadly, I've lost them all. But now I finally own it on CD, and I couldn't be happier. Extended versions, outtakes, and the classics we all know and love. Just like the purple sticker on the packaging says, it is "the most beloved movie of all time."

However, I do have some beef with this soundtrack, which is why it is rated only four stars instead of five. All 26 tracks clock in at a total of a measly 39 minutes. Considering most CDs hold at least 74 minutes, and there was so much music, including extended versions and outtakes, they could have crammed a bit more onto this disc, including more outtakes, such as the score from a deleted scene where the Wicked Witch of the West actually turned the Tin Man into a beehive as she'd threatened earlier in the film. Let's hope one day there's a single-disc Special Edition with more music or a reissue of the double-disc deluxe edition with all the music. But I guess they wanted people to buy the deluxe edition, and putting too much on the single-disc version could have talked people out of buying it.

All in all, while I would have liked for there to be more music, but for the reasonable price you pay, you get all the songs, digitally-remastered, with extended versions and outtakes. A must-have for your CD collection if you don't want to shell out money for the double-disc edition on eBay or Amazon or spend time searching in stores for it, but want the soundtrack.

Sound Quality was Good;All the Favorite Songs from the Movie
My daughter has just discovered the Wizard of Oz and is enthralled. I was hesitant to purchase the soundtrack, given how the other reviews said the sound quality was poor. I don't know if they re-mixed the songs or what, but the sound quality on our CD is just fine -- it's equivalent in quality to the soundtrack on the DVD. The CD has all of the favorite songs from the movie, of course. I highly recommend it. ... Read more

Amazon.com

One of the more successful attempts by another studio (here Fox) to make a quality animated film on par with Disney was Anastasia. The music by David Newman and songs by Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty (the Broadway team that won a Tony for Ragtime) give the movie a sturdy backbone. From the Zhivago-gone-Broadway opening number "A Rumor in St. Petersburg" to the Oscar-nominated get-up-and-sing "Journey to the Past," the CD is filled with bright numbers, including low-key pop versions of several of the songs. The vocal talent is exceptional, especially Liz Callaway (Grizabella in Broadway's Cats) as Anastasia (Meg Ryan supplied the speaking voice). Bernadette Peters and Jim Cummings (doing a mean Christopher Lloyd impersonation as the speaking voice of the movie's heavy, Rasputin) offer solid support, with kudos to Kelsey Grammer as Vlad, the portly sidekick. The album's (and film's) star is "Once Upon a December," simply one of the most beautiful songs ever from an animated film. Using a waltz motif that is heard throughout the film, the song--with sparse lyrics--builds into a sweeping and memorable number. It will have your dancing princesses asking for repeats. The CD's liner notes include complete lyrics. --Doug Thomas ... Read more

Reviews (72)

THE MOVIE BEWITCHES YOU; THE MUSIC HAUNTS YOU!!
20th Century Fox's first animated motion picture is a visual beauty; its lusciously vibrant score extremely rich and captivating. Newman's Oscar-nominated score is truly the highlight of the movie. From spine-chilling choral operas to soulful tunes; it has such an astounding gravity and emotional depth that it easily ranks among the best scores composed for dramatic films.

The songs are mostly above average; ranging from Broadway styled verses to pop numbers. Three of the songs are magnificent whereas the other three are quite forgettable. "Rumor In St. Petersburg"; "Learn To Do It" and "Paris Holds A Key" become really irksome after the first hearing. The Oscar-nominated "Journey To The Past" is a wonderful song with its fine lyrics and moving tune. The pop version, performed by the late Aaliyah is also an enjoyable track and will be loved by her heart-broken fans. The villain's number, "In The Dark Of The Night" (by Jim Cummings) has a touch of rock music, nonetheless it makes for good hearing. And for those who love pop songs, "At The Beginning" is an excellent number. Performed by Donna Lewis and Richard Marx, you feel like listening to this song over and over again. However, the tune that lingers on is "Once Upon A December". It has a haunting depth that really touches an inner part of the heart. Liz Callaway is stunning as the singing voice of Anya and Deana carter's country version of "Once Upon A December" is a treat you can't afford to miss.

The compilation from Atlantic records is good, but sadly, we get to hear only a little more than twenty minutes of Newman's fabulous score, which as I said before is one of the best to ever grace any motion picture drama, animated or non-animated. Among them, the 'Prologue' and 'Finale' are definitely the highlights. 'Reminiscing with Grandma' and 'Kidnap and Re-Union' have such mesmerizing sad tunes that they haunt your memories. And the most astonishing part is, like Menken's Disney scores, they are nothing elaborate nor use a host of instruments. Only the piano and a flute and occasional female chorals make it sound so sweetly beautiful and sadly melodious, you will simply marvel at the emotional depth and beauty. The booming Russian opera heard in the "Prologue" was banned by the Soviet Government but Newman masterfully blends it into his composition to produce a spine-chilling effect. However, the CD would sound better if only it had included a few more minutes of the score. Parts like, 'At the Russian Ballet' or 'He Didn't Take The Money' and 'The final encounter with Rasputin' could have easily made themselves part of this superb soundtrack.

A last remark, this soundtrack is positively not for kids or those who like fast and fun oriented music as in Hercules, Aladdin and Tarzan. Kids will hardly understand the sentimental beauty of the songs or the depth of the score. I strongly recommend it to those who love soothing numbers and emotional choral scores.

TRACK LISTINGS:

1. Rumor In St. Petersburg
2. Journey To The Past [**** Very Good]
3. Once Upon A December
4. In The Dark Of The Night
5. Learn To Do It
6. Learn To Do It (Waltz Reprise)
7. Paris Holds A Key
8. At The Beginning [***** Excellent]
9. Journey To The Past (Aaliyah)
10. Once upon A December (Deana Carter) [*****Excellent]
11. Prologue [*****Excellent]
12. Speaking Of Sophie
13. Nightmare
14. Kidnap And Re-Union [****Very Good]
15. Reminiscing With Grandma [*****Excellent]
16. Finale [*****Excellent]
17. Viaje Tiempo Atras (Thalia)

GOOD MOVIE... GREAT SOUNDTRACK !
While I must admit to being partial to Walt Disney when it comes to animation and the soundtracks that accompany their films, ANASTASIA caught me by surprise. A classic tale, told in an uncomplicated way that children can follow easily, it's score and songs are a perfect compliment. "Once Upon a December" is a touching and beautiful song, worthy of it's "music box" box stature,and sung wonderfully by Liz Callaway and, while I'm no fan of country music, Deana Carter also delivers a fine version. "Journey to the Past " is another great song , performed by Liz Calloway as Anastaisia's singing voice and also by Aaliyah. The score itself is a wonderful mix of flavorsand influences, acknowledging the settings of both Russia and Paris . All in all, it's a wonderful CD, pleasing enough for children of all ages. Highly recommendable.

Fantastic!
I LOVED this soundtrack! It brought back loads of memories from when I was six (that's how old I was when the movie came out), and the songs are B-E-A-U-T-I-F-U-L! My favorites are 'Journey to the Past', and 'Once Apon a December'. They bring back the most memories for me. Blast from the past! Even if you haven't seen the movie, you'd love the music anyway. Liz Callaway's voice is lovely! Also, the soundtrack features bonus tracks, and special one of 'Journey to the Past' in spanish. Very cool! I highly reccomend this soundtrack to anyone!

Great for people of all ages
I've had this CD since I was about 7, [am now 13] and I still listen to it.

I can't get over how the songs just explode with beauty and grace but also boldness and exitment.

For singers, these songs are great warm ups.

Grade A material

I am very glad to have bought this because
I am glad to have bought this because I am related to the Romanovs through Queen Victoria and am sad and can imagine what they must have felt like that day they were killed. When I listen to it I think about them alot. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential recording

Evita was Andrew Lloyd Webber's last show with Tim Rice before he went on to projects with less interesting collaborators, so it's no surprise that it remains his most consistently involving and rewarding work. Loosely based on the life of Eva Peron, the charismatic wife of post-World War II Argentine president Juan Peron, Rice's compelling story of one woman's rise from poverty to power is complemented by Lloyd Webber's colorful music as propelled by vigorous Latin rhythms. The showstopper, of course, is "Don't Cry for Me, Argentina," but the score is full of gems, including "On This Night of a Thousand Stars," "Oh, What a Circus," and "Another Suitcase in Another Hall." Headlining the 1978 Broadway cast, Patti LuPone is fabulous in the title role, showcasing her big voice and brash egotism in the role she was born to play. Mandy Patinkin is Che, the Greek-chorus character commenting on and criticizing the Perons, and his tenor is sweet on the ballads and powerful on the driving numbers. LuPone and Patinkin made their names with Evita (and took home well-deserved Tonys), but it's the third principal, Bob Gunton, who elevates this cast to the stratosphere. As Peron--a role often filled by a nonsinger--Gunton inflects his strong voice with both menace and sensitivity. Forget the movie; this is the definitive version of this score, and an essential cast recording. --David Horiuchi ... Read more

Reviews (71)

Please. Buy another recording. ANY other recording.
I have listened to myriad versions of Evita. The concept recordings, the Original London Cast (the best!), the movie, the touring casts...this Original Broadway Recording. Unhappily, this is the worst one of all. Patti LuPone ruins the music with her heavy sound that sounds as though it emanates solely through her nose. While appropriately enthusiastic in songs like "Buenos Aires," she lacks a certain youthful vibrance that Elaine Paige captured perfectly in the OLC. And the Che on this recording lacks David Essex's bite and sarcastic tone, also available on the OLC. If you're looking for a stage recording to compare with the recent movie, a word to the wise: do not buy the Broadway recording. It's painful, to say the least.

Perfect rendition of an imperfect but excellent score
Yes, Andrew Lloyd Webber has an irritating tendency to write a few wonderful pieces of music, then fill up the remainder of the show with reprises. Yes, Tim Rice's lyrics can be more than a little inane.

However, those few wonderful pieces of music are truly superb. And while the lyrics *can* be ridiculous, there are plenty of moments in which they shine -- and then linger in your mind long after those moments have passed.

I heard this recording after that of the movie and found the difference to be striking. Not only are the voices clearer and more vibrant, but some of the sharpest lyrics were cut from the movie because they cast a very negative light on Eva Peron. Plus, "Another Suitcase in Another Hall" was done by the *right* character in this recording. It works out so much better that way.

I've never heard Julie Covington sing (at least not that I can recall), and Madonna doesn't quite have the range or the sheer force required for the part, but Patti LuPone was such a perfect Evita that one can hardly ask for more. Her sharp soprano voice isn't the type that everyone will like, and to some it's probably an acquired taste. Yet it is perfect for the title part of this musical. She has easily the highest non-operatic voice I've ever heard, and she skillfully employs it with amazing forcefulness.

Antonio Banderas acts a great Che, but he simply is not a singer, with a voice not far above merely 'decent.' I did like Colm Wilkinson's singing in Les Miserables, but my guess is that as Che he wouldn't master the flawless, matchless vocal subtlety of Mandy Patinkin's Che. Patinkin's voice may be light and even effeminate (though the latter only when he sings falsetto, in my opinion), but what some listeners seem to miss is that Che is not *supposed* to be "rough and tough" -- he's supposed to be bitterly cynical and angry. Patinkin's emotional range is as wide as his vocal one, making him wonderful in the part. I've seen his Che described as "chilling," and that's the right word. Patinkin does indeed produce a chilling, even jarring fusion of lilting tenor song (and here he has a *beautiful* voice) and harsh diatribe of Evita that lends a wonderfully surreal note to the show.

Is this recording perfect? No, but only because _Evita_ itself, like any musical, cannot be absolutely without flaws. But there's no question that it's worth buying and listening to again and again.

If you want the definitive Evita, look no further
I was first introduced to Evita through the movie version. I bought that soundtrack, then I bought the broadway version to compare. Man was I blown away!!! This is the best cast album avalable. It has the best orcestrations, real lush, it just reaches down and touches your soul.

The cast is fantastic, this show could not have been cast better.

Patti Lupone as Evita- This woman can sing. Other reviewers have said she is too harsh and screeches too much. However I believe that harshness helps to capture the essense of the real Eve Peron. She was not that sweet and soft like the way Madonna portrayed her. She was a forceful and at times menipulating woman. Patti really evokes that in her porformance. Her stand out numbers for me are "Buenous Areis," and of course "Don't Cry for me Argentina."

Mandy Patinkin as Che- I love, love, LOVE Mandy's porformance as Che. His falsetto is really efective, it really helps convey hatred of Eve. However, Patinkin is not all falsetto, he can go into a low growl at times. There is only one way to describe his Che......downright bone chilling. You have got to hear Mandy sing "And the Money Kept Rolling in (And out)", pure perfection. I love his high notes during the chorus!!

Bob Gunton as Juan Peron- Creepy. Mr. Gunton scares me as Peron. He is a great singer, but his rolling of every R. is annoying. No particular standout number here, he does great on "Dice are Rolling" though.

Mark Syers as Magaldi- Not great, just a blip on the radar screen for me

Jane Ohringer as Peron's Misstress- Awesome, She really shines on her one and only song, "Another Suitcase in Another Hall"

Bottom if you want A great Evita recording, there is none better then the broadway cast. Plus it presents the entire show, not many cast recordings can boast that feat. Buy it and enjoy forever!!!!!

Brilliant
I recently saw a local performance of Evita, and was so moved that I immediately ran out and bought this CD. I'd had the LP in the 80s- indeed, I listened to it so much that I memorized it- and I've seen the Madonna version, but I probably hadn't heard this performance in at least ten year. And what a revelation it was.

It takes nothing away from the Madonna/Banderas version to say that this recording is simply transcendant. Patty LuPone's Evita is so powerful, so moving, that some of these selections bring me near to tears. And Mandy Patinkin's Che is, like so many of his interpretations, absolutely sui generis, without comparison. He moves effortlessly from a beautiful, lyric countertenor to a deep roar, never losing the character as he does so. Bob Gunton's Peron is simlarly nuanced, as are many of the smaller roles.

I think- and I'm certainly not alone in believing this- that Evita is by far the best of the Lloyd-Webber musicals, due in no small part to the work of his lyracist, Tim Rice. And this is certainly the best version of Evita ever produced.

Beautiful classic
I grew up listening to this album on my mother's record player, and I've loved it since I was young. This particular recording (Patti LuPone and Mandy Patinkin) not only reminds me of my childhood, but it is one of the best musical compilations I've ever experienced, transcending ALL genres. Absolutely perfect. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Fiddler on the Roof is one of Broadway's great classics. Based on the tales of Sholem Aleichem, the musical tells the humorous and heartbreaking story of the milkman Tevye as he tries to maintain the simplicities of his traditional life even as his daughters grow up and Russia heads toward revolution. Many of Jerry Bock and Sheldon Harnick's songs have become touchstones of popular culture, including "Tradition," "If I Were a Rich Man," and "Sunrise, Sunset." As Tevye, Zero Mostel leads--and at times dominates--the original 1964 Broadway cast, displaying irrepressible swagger and bluster. A young Julia Migenes plays his middle daughter, Hodel, while those who only know Bert Convy as a game-show host will be surprised by his pleasant voice as her suitor. The CD includes two previously unreleased songs but no lyrics. --David Horiuchi ... Read more

Reviews (18)

Superior Original Cast Recording -- The Best!
Just as they say that the book or the play are always better than the movie, it is also almost always true that the original cast recording of a play out-shines the luster of any movie sound track - true, true, true! -- I have seen "Fiddler on the Roof" as a wonderful film, as well as a fantastic stage production. I'm also familiar with the original movie sound track. All are great entertainment. The only tangible thing to top all of it off is this CD recorded from the original Broadway stage production. Zero Mostel is THE ONLY Tevje! His rendition of "Tradition" and "If I Were A Rich Man" are priceless. The tunes "Matchmaker, Matchmaker" and "Do You Love Me?" also are done best in this recording. If you are a fan of Broadway Shows, like I am, you will appreciate this superior original that has often been copied, but never duplicated!

The most beloved Broadway musical of the 1960's
It might seem an odd choice for the honor, but "Fiddler on the Roof" is undoubtedly the most beloved Broadway musical of the Sixties. The book by Joseph Stein is based upon the stories of Sholem Aleichem, with music by Jerry Bock and lyrics by Sheldon Harnick, the songwriting team whose earlier Tony Award winning success "Fiorello!" certainly never suggested they could create something as wonderful as "Fiddler." Zero Mostel heads the cast as Tevye, the dairyman, with Maria Karnilova as Golde, his wife, who, with "Do You Love Me?" have the best love duet between two married people in musical history.

At the heart of the story are the efforts by Tevye to deal with the way God keeps presenting him with challenges, from needing to take care of a lame horse ("If I Were A Rich Man"), to getting his oldest daughter engaged to one man ("To Life") only to see her marry another ("Sunrise, Sunset"), and finally to leave the only home he has ever known to travel to America ("Anatevka"). Throughout it all Tevye tries to remain true to the traditions of his community ("Prologue--Tradition") and his faith ("Sabbath Prayer"). The cast features Beatrice Arthur as Yente the matchmaker ("The Rumor"), Austin Pendleton as Motel the tailor ("Miracle of Miracles"), Bert Convy as Perchik the student ("Now I Have Everything"), Joanna Merlin as the eldest daughter Tzeitel ("Matchmaker") and future opera star Julia Migenes as the second oldest daughter Hodel ("Far from the Home I Love").

I understand now from those who should know that Mostel butchers the pronunciation of anything not said or sung in English, but I have to admit that does not really detract from my enjoyment of this album; I do not pay attention to pronunciation when listening to opera either, so I am at least consistent. This CD version features two previously unreleased tracks, the "Wedding Dance" music (including the famous bottle dance) and "The Rumor," both of which are welcomed additions. Bottom line: If you own a dozen musicals on CD, then this is one of the ones that has to be in your collection

A Landmark Acomplishment.....by Zero Mostel
Ahhhhh...what can you say about "Fiddler on the Roof" that hasn't already been said. This landmark in American Musical Theater (and in theater in general) is forever perserved in this timeless recording. Bock and Harnick songs vividly bring the story of Tevye, the poor milkman, to life. The songs are so touching and reflect the emotions of all, while entertaining even the most avid musical-hater (shame on you).

However, the greatest accomplishment belongs not to Bock, Harnick, Harold Prince or Jerome Robbins (who directed). The man who personifies and carries (and downright dominates) this show is the great Zero Mostel. His acting, voice and comedic timing are greatly shown in this, his definitive role. He makes "Fiddler on the Roof".

In the interviews with Sheldon Harnick (lyricist) that are on this CD (another reason to buy it), he mentions that Zero recorded "If I Were A Rich Man" in only ONE take. Amazing. As is this CD.

Even if you are the most avid musical-hater, or a musical theater junkie like me, you will enjoy the classics like "If I Were A Rich Man", "Sunrise, Sunset" and "Tradition", while savoring songs which they cut, like the histerical "When Messiah Comes".

All-in-all, a fabulous CD! Well worth the price.

******Also, make sure you see and listen to Zero Mostel in Stephen Sondheim's "A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum." Either buy the movie or the cast recording! You'll be glad you did!

Mazeltov!
Having had some history as a performer in this production, I can't recommend this soundtrack highly enough. If you've seen the film version, the music will bring you back. And of course, Zero Mostel is the "star," and there's no question about it, and his renditions as "Teyve" actually lay the foundations for the ensemble to play to.

In this collection, we hear:

Tradition
Matchmaker, Matchmaker
If I were a Rich Man
Sabbath Prayer
To Life
Miracle of Miracles
Teyve's Dream

Sunrise, Sunset
Now I have Everything
Do You Love Me?
Far from the Home I Love
Anatevka

What more could you want? Just go out and get the film, right? Or wait for the local community theater to do a revival production of this wonderful story.

It warms the heart, it does, and I highly recommend it!!

The Best Recording of Fiddler EVER!!!!!
I listened to the other Fiddler recordings and even played a part in our community theater and still this was the best. Zero Mostel brought the whole production to life! I grew up with it and have lived by it my entire life. ... Read more

Reviews (105)

Songs from the Funnies
I really wish I could have seen this musical. I love all things Peanuts, and I even memorized Charlie Brown's monologue from this play for my high school Drama class. But having this soundtrack is the next best thing. Here, you're treated to wonderful songs right out of your Sunday comics. The characters hold true to their comic strip personalities, and it's very easy to imagine that you've read this somewhere before.

There are quite a few highlights. "Kite" is a funny example of Charlie Brown almost succeeding at something. "The Book Report" takes each of the characters through the process of writing a report on Peter Rabbit. I especially love Schroeder's change to Robin Hood. My personal favorite is "My New Philosophy." Sally is coming up with new life philosophies as fast as she can. It's a hilarious song that gives Kristin Chenoweth a great chance to shine. Listening to this, it's easy to see why she won a Tony award for this roll.

I will agree with previous reviewers that have said Lucy's voice isn't the best. The actress just doesn't quite have the range to pull off the high notes that are required. But that only dampen two songs, and the rest of the time she sounds just like Lucy should.

All told, this CD really does belong in your collection. It's sure to cheer you up and touch your heart, just like the comic strip.

Simplistic, but Adorable!
When I first heard there was a Charlie Brown musical, I cringed. But then I heard the album and my opinion changed drastically.

The cast of this revival is absolutely stunning; they really add the "Peanuts" flair to it. Anthony Rapp (whom I loved and adored in Rent) is the perfect Charlie Brown. If you just listen to Rent you can tell what a great actor this man is- he can be a struggling would-be director one minute and a kid who's down on his luck the next. Ilana Levine, as Lucy, takes some getting used to (mainly on the high notes) but her attitude is perfect! She's so self-absorbed! *laughs* Stanley Wayne Mathis is terrific as Schroeder. He definitely embodies our favorite piano-playing Beethoven wonder boy. B.D. Wong, as Linus, is so adorable in "My Blanket and Me". He gives new meaning to the term 'security blanket'. Kristen Chenoweth is *perfect* as Sally (who, I've realized, is a mixture of Sally and Peppermint Patty), especially in her duet with Schroeder, "My New Philosophy". It's so adorable, and catchy! And last but not least, Roger Bart as Snoopy. He's great; I can really envision him as being a dog on a red doghouse. If only he had a Woodstock. *sigh*

Anyway, this album is truly worth getting. The songs are simple, but they really tell a lot about children and the joys of life. Not a waste of money at all!!

Nice little surprise. You won't regret picking it up...
To think, I had a chance to see this with the original cast but couldn't convince my friends to join me during our visit to NYC. Upon returning, I purchased this album and have been kicking myself since.

This is a great, fun story that's worthy of a revival. The assembled cast is brilliant, with Anthony Rapp at the helm as the forgotten child, Charlie Brown. Rapp's portrayal of the lead character is amazing, with a perfect blend of innocence, insecurity, and vulneribility. BD Wong is also surprisingly good as Linus, but Chenoweth outshines the cast with her presentation of Sally.

No point in explaining it, you just have to listen to it. Pick it up, you won't be disappointed.

Little Snoopy of Horrors
I got this recording out of curiosity, having enjoyed the original album and several productions over the years. And while the cast is talented--despite the overly shrill Lucy--and some of the songs are perfectly fine, on the whole, I can't recommend this version.

Why? For one thing, the new songs don't mesh stylistically with the original songs. In and of themselves, they're fine, but both in style and orchestration, they just don't match. If you want to write a new Peanuts musical, fine, but if this one ain't broke, don't fix it. For one thing, "Beethoven Day" doesn't sound at all like a song Schroeder would sing. For another, the new songs are entirely too polished and pop; like the strips, the beauty of the original songs is in their simplicity, the fact that you believe that they're being sung by children. Even in the orchestrations in this version, they take a perfectly good performance of one of the original songs and ruin it by adding a new ending at odds with the sound and tone of the rest of the song. Why do this? To make it seem more contemporary, I suppose. "My New Philosophy" is the only new piece that even remotely sounds in character, and even that is far too polished.

Performance-wise, it's a fine production, with good voices and musicians, but some questionable acting choices. The usually excellent B. D. Wong sounds ridiculous as Linus with a lisp; he sounds frighteningly like Ed Wynn most of the time. (If you know who Ed Wynn is, you know why that's a horrible mental image for Linus.) And as I said before, Ilana Levine as Lucy is entirely too shrill, too over the top, so much so that it's unpleasant to listen to her singing voice. These are character choices, but a better director might have improved or cut them. On the other hand, Kristen Chenowith is wonderful, as is Roger Bart.

As for the sound mix on the album, it varies from too loud to too soft--though again, the orchestrations are largely to blame. Either way, the sudden shifts from a soft to a loud song kept scaring my child, which is not what this show should do. I shouldn't need to sit with my hand on the volume control the whole time.

Overblown, brassy, aggravating. And just when they've done a song right, they blow it. I was surprised at their restraint in "Happiness," and literally as I was about to say that out loud to my wife, it came roaring back with guns blazing, filling the room with a wall of sound and schmaltz. God forbid we present anything with subtlety. This production, while decked out in a beautiful set and costume design right out of Schulz' pen, misses all the simplicity and wonder of Schulz' writing in the effort to make a Big Contemporary Broadway Show. There is no magic in this version, only calculation. It's no wonder this production only ran for a few months, while the original ran for four years.

It's possible to revive and reinvent a show well. "Chicago," "Anything Goes," "Guys and Dolls" and "Cabaret" all come to mind. None were slavish imitations of the originals, but all of them kept the spirit of original source material, and all had long, healthy runs.

If you want a slick, over-produced, polished recording, then by all means, get this version. If you're only used to Broadway scores from 1980 and later and can't conceive of a simple, small scale show, get this version. If you want a recording that sounds like the Peanuts characters despite being played by grown actors, which is no mean feat, go for the original cast.

A brilliant remake with and incredible cast
Having lately joined the pantheon of actors who have played Charlie Brown in this awesome show's history, I was thrilled to have this recording as a reference. Maybe my love for this recording is what primarily turned me off to the original cast recording, but this cast truly seems to get ahold of what Charlie Brown is really about. Childlike innocence, vulnerability, even naivete, but it still says something about society, relationships and life. Anthony Rapp is surprisingly (almost) perfect for Charlie Brown, Ilana Levine is very good as the supercrab herself, Lucy. Stanley Mathis as Schroeder does a great job as well (for the most part), and while I'm not terribly fond of B.D. Wong's interpretation of Linus, this show's brightest stars are definitely Roger Bart as Snoopy (Suppertime is nothing short of fantastic) and Kristen Chenoweth as Sally (My New Philosophy remains spectacular no matter how many times you hear it).

The reworkings of the original songs are most excellent, and the new songs are remarkable. For an up-to-date, but still sincere recording, look no further than the New Broadway Cast Recording. ... Read more

Reviews (22)

A MOMENT IN TIME
Though I loved the over-bloated movie in its day, it has not held up nearly as well as this soundtrack, which features a wealth of superb songwriters strutting their stuff via Barbra and Kris Kristofferson. Barbra's pseudo rock/pop/diva material is mostly exceptionally well-performed, most of all her lovely simply ballad Evergreen. But in retrospect, it is Kristofferson's melancholy wailing -- remember he was about to hit rock-bottom during the making of this movie -- that has lasting power and angst. I particularly love Crippled Crow and his version of Watch Closely Now. This is a soundtrack worth having as a monumentally well-produced product from the mid-70s.

Blame it on Jon Peters if it helps you sleep at night
Allegedly setting out to do an updated "rock" remake, Barbra bafflingly hired non-rock, mediocre songwriters like Paul Williams and Rupert Holmes. Barbra's voice was at its peak here, and she manages to turn some of these sows' ears into silk purses. This has the disturbing effect of hearing a great artist performing far beneath her capabilities (something akin to John Singer Sargent drawing caricatures at carnivals). Most of the songs fall into the dated 70's me-decade-sexual-revolutionary message category. "Everything" ended up being one of those songs that lots of girls wanted to sing in high school talent contests and beauty pageants and on Starsearch. It's a shame Barbra didn't enlist the help of Richard Perry; her "rock" albums under his tutelage were at least credible. The Oscar-winning Streisand composition "Evergreen" is here, but it may be advisable to opt for one of the several compilations on which it appears. I won't even go into detail about the wretchedness that is Kris Kristofferson. Most CD players have programming capabilities that will alleviate that problem.

Classic Barbra, although a tad cheesy
I'm a huge Barbra fan, which is the only reason why I own this soundtrack, but I must say, even by Barbra's standards, this music has to be the most corniest ever put down on record. Kris Kristofferson's input is hardly worth mentioning, but I expected a lot better from Barbra. Blame it on Rupert Holmes and Paul Williams, the kings of cheese during the 70's, for messing up what could have been a much more solid soundtrack. Barbra's voice is fine as ever, but some of the material she had to sing for this movie are somewhat lame. "I Believe in Love" sounds like a song from a cruise ship lounge act, and "Everything" tries too hard to be deep, with cheesy lyrics like "if there was a flood, i'd give a dam." "Queen Bee" and "Woman in the Moon" are cute, funky women-power anthems, although they're bogged down by second-rate lyrics (who in the world is this woman in the moon anyway?). "With one more look at you/Watch Closely Now" is a strong, live effort by Barbra, although by the end of the song, it gets just a tad bit overblown. The best songs on here are "Evergreen" and "Lost Inside of You," which were actually co-written by Barbra. These two songs shows what a gifted talent Barbra has for writing music (she won an Oscar for "Best Song from a Film" for "Evergreen") and perhaps she should have been more involved in the writing process for the music in this film. All in all, it's hard not to like this album, despite its cheesiness.

Barbra always deserves 'one more look.'
This soundtrack to the film blockbuster (which became the second highest grossing movie of that year) was also an enormous success itself, spending six weeks at #1 and selling over four million copies in the US alone. Though a monster hit, the film was entertaining but uneven and the soundtrack reflects this. A STAR IS BORN is at it's best during Streisand's seven numbers, which feature astonishingly powerful vocals that resonate in the memory even long after the disc has ended.

The Streisand-penned composition "Evergreen" (with lyrics by Paul Williams), with it's haunting melody and classical-style timbre (very typical of her work), is one of the grandest pop records ever recorded. Artistic justice was served when the song also became a huge commercial smash, hitting #1 on both the Pop and Adult Contemporary charts and winning several armfuls of awards. The other song with music composed by Streisand, "Lost Inside Of You" (a surprisingly effective duet with leading man Kris Kristofferson), features a similar classical slant and perhaps could have been a hit as well (that is if it had been released as a single). The remainder of the Streisand tracks were recorded live in front of an audience ("Evergreen" and "Lost Inside Of You" were also recorded live, but in the studio), and these amazing performances will make listeners wish Streisand had given more concerts in the seventies.

Some of this material (especially Rupert Holmes' "Queen Bee") is second-rate and forgettable, but even then Streisand's vocals make them more memorable than they deserve to be. My favorite concert selections are the scorching "Woman In The Moon" and the heart-stopping medley "With One More Look At You/Watch Closely Now." On the downside, the disc has a somewhat disjointed feel (typical of pop-oriented soundtracks) and Kristofferson's three solo numbers are monotonous and sound out of tune. However, Streisand's vocals are fabulous and will make this a must-own for fans.

Are You a Figment of My Imagination...
I bought this album not because of Streisand, like most of the people who have reviewed this album, but because of Kris Kristofferson. He has been one of my favorite singers since I was young, and the songs here don't do him justice. I post this review to let people know that the songs here should in no way reflect Kristofferson's abilities as a singer and a songwriter. The songs here were written by other songwriters for this movie, and his character was a burnt out singer whose career was going down the tubes. Keep this in mind as you listen to his singing here. One need only to listen to any of Kristofferson's albums to know that the scratchy growling voice heard here (almost a deadringer for Tom Waits, which is what makes the songs listenable) sounds nothing like the singer when he makes a valid effort to make music.
As for the soundtrack, the duet with Streisand was good, "Hellacious Acres" is pretty funny, and the opening song (Kristofferson's main hit in the movie) is okay. As for Streisand, I have to admit her voice has a great range and this CD, as well as the movie, is a good showcase of her abilities. That's what the movie was about, and again I stress: don't judge Kristofferson by these songs. ... Read more

Amazon.com

As you may already know from seeing it hawked incessantly on late-night TV by Jerry Vale, Mob Hits is a compilation CD that attempts to capture the ambience of the modern gangster pic by assembling songs heard in key scenes of such films as The Godfather, GoodFellas, Donnie Brasco, and Casino. While licensing restrictions keep the music of Frank Sinatra from being part of this collection (odd, as the address on this package is the address for his long-time label Capitol Records), the selection and sequencing of well-known Italian "hits" by Vale, Dean Martin, Louis Prima, Lou Monte, Al Martino, and Julius LaRosa gets the job done with discretion and honor. And the liner notes even offer a toll-free number for homemade pasta sauce. --Gregg Turkington ... Read more

Reviews (38)

FOGET ABOUT IT! This CD is great.
I am an Italian American. Born in Washington, DC. I went to highschool in Milano, and also lived for a time in Napoli and Bari and am a member of the Italian Cultural Society in Washington, DC. I love the country, and am proud to be an Italian. Although I work for a federal Law enforcement agency I love the mob movies! The Godfather and Goodfellas are two of the greatest movies ever made and host sound tracks to die for (a little joke). The music on these CDs is not only fantastic and not only Italian but in the mob movies as well. Sure Italians are stereotypically portrayed in film, as all being mobsters, but the truth is that they aren't all mobsters, so get over it. And thanks to people like Roberto Beninni that is changing as well. These songs are in the mob movies and are timeless! So sit back, relax, light up a cigar, and enjoy!

A five star set but not quite flawless
From "The Public Enemy" to "The Godfather" to "Casino", Mob movies have always been among my very favorites. So when I heard about this set I was just thrilled. This set has almost all you could want as far as the traditional italian music is concerened. I gave it 5 stars but there are only 2 minor problems. One, this could have fit on one CD instead of two 30-min CDs. That just seemed like more of a reason to get more money. Two, while it's understandable that the licensing for the "Godfather Waltz" from the movie prevented the original from being on the Cd, there is no excuse for the lousy remake at the end of disc one. They should have left it off.

But the Cd is filled with the rich sounds of Dean Martin, Louie Prima, Al Martino, Jerry Vale, and more. Its a great album to listen to in the car or while your having a meal or just whenever you feel like it. It represents the mob movies well and I can't wait for Mob Hits 2.

Mob Hits CD
Great music that's fun to listen to - got us all singing along in the car the other night. Can't go wrong with this CD!!

Eh Cumpari
I love this CD! It's great, I've been listening to it since I was little with my grandfather. And whoever says its racist is has some serious problems! These songs are great and no one cares if you think its racist or not!!! EH CUMPARI!!

Que Bella!
I saw this album advertised one night in the fall and at first I was highly amused by the title. Like many people here who have written reviews, I love mob movies as well. I grew up with them. I saw this in a store and saw that it had many of my favorite artists on it. It wasn't so much that I remember them from the film, but because the music alone was great. I know that some people were offended by the title of the album, but I doubt that the makers had any intention of insulting individuals of Italian descent. it's a tribute to the music, not the images protrayed in the films themselves. And any one with a brain will realize that this does NOT apply to the Italian people. If you love good music, get this CD! ... Read more

Reviews (21)

Beautiful Arrangements
In 1983 this album was released, and Linda was leaving her more rock-country roots behind. WHAT'S NEW is a collection of songs from old standards and american songbooks. Many feel Linda does not have the voice for this material, but I beg to differ. She cascades beautifully over these classics, with excellent arrangements from Nelson Riddle and his orchestra. Her voice is a powerhouse of emotion and she conveys it well on this album. After WHAT'S NEW there was LUSH LIFE and FOR SENTIMENTAL REASONS, but I believe this to be the better of the three. Highlights include "What's New", "I've Got A Crush On You", "Someone To Watch Over Me", "Goodbye" and "Crazy He Calls Me". Overall a strong set and definately worth repeated listenings.

Ronstadt & Riddle: How Can You Go Wrong?
I was never a fan of Linda Ronstadt until she recorded "What's New", "Lush Life" and "For Sentimental Reasons". Nelson Riddle did an excellent job in bringing out the very best of Linda Ronstadt with a new repertoire of ageless and romantic standards. She did very outstanding performances and I believe that she's worthy to be called a versatile singer.

Her heartfelt renditions of Gershwin's classics," I've Got A Crush On You" and "Someone To Watch Over Me", are my favorites. I also like her superb interpretation of Irving Berlin's "What'll I Do". She delivers these songs with intensity and full of emotions. Very impressive! Her voice is a perfect match for these romantic classics.

This CD is a keeper and you will enjoy listening to it now and forever!

Enjoyable album from Linda Ronstadt
This was an interesting change of pace in Linda Ronstadt's career. Instead of competing with everyone else, she decided to do an album of old standards with Nelson Riddle. She did three albums like this, and this is by far my favorite. She would have benefitted from not following this up with two others, which are not as cohesive or strong as WHAT'S NEW is. Nevertheless, I think vocally she sounds great on these tracks, and she makes them her own.

Thanks, LR---for bringing old songs to young ears...
Back in 1983, the so-called "Great American Songbook" was largely left on the shelf. Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, Tony Bennett and others who could really sing 'em and swing 'em were not as big as they used to be, and a generation of record buyers was growing up without much exposure to The Gershwins, Cole Porter, Irving Berlin and other great writers of the first half of the century. Then Linda, a country/folk/rock artist, hooked up with elder statesman bandleader and arranger Nelson Riddle for this album of standards. It sold well, leading to two more collaborations, each of them just about equal to "What's New". (In fact, I might like "Lush Life' just a hair better.) The product proved that Riddle still could deliver the quality he became famous for in the '50's during collaborations with the greatest singers of that era. And to me, already a Linda fan, it proved that she, in many ways, could wear the title "great singer." These nine tracks are mostly mellow, even melancholy, lyrics about lost love, longing for love, and the loneliness of unrequited love. Well done all around.

Timeless Classics & Excellent Performances
I bought this in 1983 when it first came out on vinyl and played the grooves out of it. After not having it for at least 15 years I recently picked up a copy on cd and am surprised by how fresh and enjoyable it still is. Technically, it's a very clean recording and the performances by Ronstadt and the session musicians (including Ray Brown & John Guerin) are excellent.

I've read that she originally cut the sessions with Jerry Wexler producing in a mode similar to a Billie Holliday & Lester Young style but Ronstadt canned those sessions and re-recorded them with Peter Asher and a completely different line-up of musicians. It would be interesting if future volumes could include some of those original sessions as bonus cuts to juxtapose against what was ultimately released

Regardless, this is a beautiful set of songs and performances, my favorite of the three albums she released in this style. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential recording

Four years after her return to recording after a much-publicized battle with drug addiction, Natalie Cole found herself unexpectedly experiencing a virtual reinvention as a bestselling artist and performer, thanks to a project she had longed to do for many years. Unforgettable with Love was the soulful singer's way of paying tribute to her late, legendary father, Nat "King" Cole, and marked her label debut for Elektra Records. Cole, Elektra, and the album's producers--including then-husband Andre Fischer and Tommy LiPuma--were rewarded with a multiple-Grammy-winning set that sold an astonishing 5 million copies in the U.S. alone. Cole's selections varied from obvious choices like "Mona Lisa," "NatureBoy," "Route 66," and "Straighten Up and Fly Right"--all major hits for her father in the '50s--to more obscure parts of King Cole's repertoire, such as "Avalon" and "Non Dimenticar." The crowning glory was a "duet" with her father, electronically created using his original vocal, which helped expand Cole's audience dramatically and took her career to a new plateau. --David Nathan ... Read more

Reviews (32)

THE TITLE SAYS IT ALL!
When Natalie Cole first launched her career, everyone was expecting her to sing her father Nat's songs, or to sing the type of music, he did later in his career: middle-of-the-road pop. Well, Natalie specifically steered clear of doing that because she wanted to prove that she could make it on her own, and desperately wanted to step out of her father's massive shadow. So she sang straight up R&B, as a disciple of the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin. She established herself as a top vocalist during the mid '70s and into the '80s but not without some personal troubles.

This CD, UNFORGETTABLE WITH LOVE, gives fans of both Natalie and her dad a treat. No doubt the world greatly misses Nat King Cole; we can't help but think of what would've happened had he lived. But to carry on his legacy is his daughter doing his songs now, even though at one time she didn't want to. But it was time! We might as well keep it in the family, right? Who else is more deserving of covering his material? And Natalie does a wonderful job, too. The technology used to make Natalie sing "Unforgettable" with her dad is nothing new now, but when the CD first came out, everyone was saying, "How did they do that?" And to this day, I get choked up just listening to that duet. Natalie covers 22 of her dad's hits on this CD, such as "That Sunday, That Summer" (another tear-jerker for me), "L-O-V-E", "Mona Lisa", "Thou Swell", "Nature Boy", "The Very Thought Of You" and "Our Love Is Here To Stay". Plus she does a medley of three of her dad's most romantic tunes: "(I Love You) For Sentimental Reasons", Tenderly" and "Autumn Leaves". Absolutely beautiful. Natalie, your dad would be proud. Well done, "Sweetie"!

"Unforgettable" proves a memorable tribute
Natalie Cole's pop albums always featured at least one jazzy, swinging track, so it came as no surprise when she decided, in 1991, to release an all-out tribute to her father, jazz-legend Nat "King" Cole, complete with full orchestra. It serves not only as a strong and fitting tribute to one of music's greatest figures, but as a perfect opportunity for Natalie Cole to expand her horizons...and her fan base.

Let's be honest...they just don't write 'em like they used to, and therefore Natalie never had quite the chance to show off the grace and elegance of her voice as she does on the likes of "The Very Thought of You," "Mona Lisa," and "Our Love is Here to Stay." Producers Andre Fischer, Tommy Lipuma, and David Foster keep Natalie in superior arragements throughout, especially evident on "Too Young" and an exquisite rendition of "Lush Life." There's plenty of swing, too, however: "Paper Moon," "Route 66," and "L-O-V-E" are songs that couldn't be authentically pulled off by just any pop singer, but Natalie more than rises to the challenge. Furthermore the frantically-paced "Avalon" and the midtempo "Don't Get Around Much Anymore," the latter boasting a slick scat, are among the album's best tracks.

But the finest moment comes at the finale: through the wonders of modern technology, Natalie is afforded the opportunity to sing with her father, digitally remastered here to gorgeous effect on the album's title track. Unfortunately, the practice inspired countless, less-appropriate knock-offs (even Natalie reprised the idea two albums later with far less impact) but here, Natalie's obvious love and affection for her father and his music come through tenfold, and we're treated to one of the most beautiful and moving moments in jazz. In summation, a talented daughter pays tribute to her legendary father, singing timeless classics admist top-notch arrangements traditional enough for purists to admire, but accessible enough for pop fans to discover and cherish. "Unforgettable" indeed.

Unforgettable With Love Natalie Cole
Natalie Cole's 1991 Album Unforgettable With Love is one of the major Highlights of her Career,because after 16 years of Contemporary Music she is finally ready to embrace her father the late Nat King Cole's music as well as the music she grew up with,as well as bieng her first album of the 1990's.The songs are The Very Thought Of You,Paper Moon,Route 66,Mona Lisa,L-O-V-E,This Can't Be Love,Smile,Lush Life,That Sunday That Summer,Orange Colored Sky,For Sentimental Reasons,Sarah Vaughn's Tenderly,Autumn Leaves,Straighten Up And Fly Right,Avalon,Duke Ellington's Don't Get Around Much Anymore,Too Young,Nature Boy,Darling Je Vous Aime Beaucoup,Almost Like Bieng In Love,Thou Swell,Non Dimenticar,Our Love Is Here To Stay,and the Postumous Duet with Nat King Cole and title cut Unforgettable.Finally after years of Hard Work and Perservearrance she was at the height of her Career and a Queen in her Own Right,and not Aretha Franklin's Title.This is truly one of My Favorite Albums Of-All-Time.I Love and Respect You Natalie Cole,you are truly Unpredictable and Unforgettable With Love like 2 of your album titles states it(early 1977&1991).

Brings new meaning to "using yo Daddy's name"
Natalie don't sing liker her Daddy, she brings emberesse=ment to the Cole family name, she sings liek a primitive monkey, way too high and off pitch, HORRIBE, and she brings SHAME to the Coel name , by altering her voice in a duet with her dead Daddy, SICK, she 's a SICK SICK person to take that and make a name for herself from her Dad's grave. SHMAE!!!! At least if one thing good came out of it, Nat Cole gets played on more easy listening stations and FM statiosn because of that hidiously artered song.

Natalie's Finest Hour -- Very "Unforgettable" Experience
Recently I purchased the replacement CD copy from Amazon after loaning the original to a friend, who promptly lost it. Oh well. It had been quite some time since I listened to this disc, but upon receiving it in the mail only 4 days after placing my order online (thanks, Amazon -- speedy delivery, as usual), I quickly became re-acquainted with the wonderful songs on this CD. It's like running into a childhood friend where you always discover something new everytime you're together. That's my feeling everytime I listen to this CD.

The song selection is impeccable -- every song so closely identified with Nat "King" Cole during his reign as one of the best singers to ever grace the music world in the 20th century. But what makes these songs special and "Unforgettable" is Natalie Cole's warm, sensual, yet faithful renditions made famous by her dad.

Legend has it that Natalie was first approached to record these songs almost 20 years earlier when she was still not even quite out of college. Apparently music producers and record companies wanted to "Cash In" on the notoriety of the relationship between the Cole family and these songs. But Natalie resisted because she wanted to carve out her own musical identity and distance herself from her dad's legacy. Story goes Natalie was approached time and time again by different producers over the years, but she continued to resist until her mom, Maria, finally encouraged her to just do it. But I think Natalie's own personal experiences with drugs and substance abuse also played a part. Emotionally she wasn't ready until the time was right.

1991 was finally the right time and her producers -- Andre Fischer (former ex), David Foster and Tommy LiPuma -- do a great job bringing in the beautiful lush orchestra to backup Natalie, who certainly doesn't disappoint. She was right in waiting out until the time was right to record these songs. Her painful years battling drugs only add to the nuance and subtlety of her interpretations. She has NEVER sounded better. She doesn't strain for any high notes, yet she hits every single note with ease and doesn't overpower the music, but lets the music speak for itself. Her renditions are right up there alongside the likes of Ella Fitzgerald, Peggy Lee, and Sarah Vaughan.

Personal favorites from this immaculate CD are: "That Sunday, That Summer" "Orange Color Sky" "Lush Life" "Very Thought of You" the very moving "Smile" and of course the "duet" with her dad on "Unforgettable". Natalie notes with pride in the CD jacket that "Smile" was written especially for her dad by the one and only Charlie Chaplin.

Thanks for making an "Unforgettable" CD, Natalie. Even 13 years after you recorded these songs, they're still timeless. And they always will be.

This CD may stand out as the cherry on top of a delicious cake. It is your Finest Hour as an Artist. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Inspired by Frances Hodgson Burnett's novel of the same name, The Secret Garden was set apart from the beginning by the composition of its creative team. Not many Broadway shows can boast a female composer (Lucy Simon), director (Susan H. Schulman), librettist/lyricist (Marsha Norman), and producer/set designer (Heidi Landesman)--not to mention an 11-year old (Daisy Eagan) in the lead. This story of a little girl who helps her grieving uncle and sickly cousin regain a taste for life is a delicate, lovely achievement. Steeped in moody Victoriana, it should enchant those who enjoy a more understated style of musical theater. The great cast includes Mandy Patinkin, Rebecca Luker as his dead wife Lily's ghost, and the perenially underrated Alison Fraser. --Elisabeth Vincentelli ... Read more

Reviews (64)

heartbreaking musical
THE SECRET GARDEN, based on Frances Burnett's classic children's novel, opened on Broadway in musical form in 1991 to critical and audience acclaim. Most of the praise was for the amazing, eclectic score written by Lucy Simon and Marsha Norman.

The show originally starred Daisy Eagan (Mary Lennox), Mandy Patinkin (Archibald Craven), Rebecca Luker (Lily Craven), Robert Westenberg (Dr Craven), Alison Fraser (Martha) and John Cameron Mitchell (Dickon).

The score features a lush combination of haunting love songs, sweeping waltzes, Celtic-inspired chants and rock-type anthems as well as a few Broadway-style tunes.

Standout songs include the heartbreaking "How Could I Ever Know?", the jaunty "A Fine White Horse", and "A Girl in the Valley". Other great songs are "Winter's on the Wing", "The Girl I Mean to Be", "Wick", "Come To My Garden" and "Race You To the Top of the Morning".

It is one of the greatest tragedies that this musical did not run longer on Broadway, but it was later re-conceived and significantly re-written for its West End production at the Aldwych Theatre.

Highly recommended.

Magnificent moody musical
One of the standout broadway musicals of the last part of the 20th century, The Secret Garden boasts a great source (Frances Hodgson Burnett's classic novel), a wonderful score by Lucy Simon, and a superb cast. From the opening exotic sounds of the cholera outbreak in India which leaves young Mary Lenox orphaned to the (admittedly somewhat schmaltzy) finale of "This, my lovely child, is your garden!" the score swirls and soars in a magnificent musical tapestry. Almost universally consistent accents (an extreme rarity in Broadway theater; kudos to the dialect coach) are instrumental in helping establish the "feel" of the piece, and the dark Yorkshire moor where the majority of the action is set.

The cast features the youngest Tony winner to date, 11-year-old Daisy Eagan, who plays Mary Lennox to perfection. Rebecca Luker's glorious soaring soprano makes Lily's ghost songs heartbreakingly ethereal, and even Mandy Patinkin's usual histrionics don't detract a bit from his powerful rendition of the disfigured, disturbed, and perpetually mourning Archibald. The supporting cast is equally superb: Alison Fraser performs "Hold On" and "Fine White Horse" with warm wit and tenderness, and John Cameron Mitchell (now perhaps better known for Hedwig and the Angry Inch) has an impish tone as Dickon, with the standout solos "Winter's on the Wing" and "Wick."

The recording wisely includes a substantial amount of dialogue to supplement the score, making it possible to understand the show fully, even for those who haven't seen it (or, like me, saw it almost half a lifetime ago). Complete lyrics, and a solid, concise plot synopsis further enhance the package. A solid addition to any musical theater fan's collection.

Great but mine was better
I have just been in the northern premire of " The secret garden" with Durham Musical theater company ( ENGLAND ). i played the part of Dickon and loved it. I bought the CD as a little momento and thought that the msuic was brilliant. There where a few dissapointments :-
1. Alot of the scrip has changed and songs have been cut.
2. Dickon has aged 20 years

i do still think that our performance was a better sound but that my be just me !
BUY THIS CD ! it is great music for any musical theater lover and a must buy. If you get a chance to see it then do ! i promise you will love it.
Sam Lupton ( The secet garden DMTC 2004 )

the cd tells the story beautifully
I have always liked the story of the secret garden, so when my drama teacher introduced me to the music from the show, I was captivated. I was chilled to the bone when I first heard, "I heard someone crying," so much in fact, that I asked for the CD for Christmas, never having seen the show. It has come to be one of my favorite cds and musicals of all time. The songs are hauntingly beautiful and romantic, I don't even need to see the musical because enough information is provided on the cd that the mood and setting is already playing out in my mind. I want to see the Secret Garden the musical now more than ever, but for now, I can revel in the beautiful artistry of songs like,"A bit of earth", "Come to my Garden," "Lily's eyes" and "How could I know." An added bonus, all the singers perform beautifully.

Mary, Mary, quite contrary, why does your garden STINK?
I went to see a local production of this show recently. I had some friends in the cast and naturally I wanted to show my support. A parent of one of my friends had told me beforehand that she had high expectations for it. "I think it's going to be a great show," she said. "The music is by Lucy Simon, Carly Simon's sister." Very impressive. Although I admit to not being able to identify any of Carly Simon's songs, I'm sure they're all works of complete genius, and naturally being a sister of such a genius automatically warrants Lucy a genius, too. So I bought my tickets in advance, and eagerly awaited opening night.

The show stank. I would like to give a hit on the head several times to the person who thought that The Secret Garden would make a good story for a musical.

Now I realize that this is a review of the CD, that is to say, the music, so any criticisms of the actual show would be irrelevant. But, you also have to consider that this is one of those new-age, partially-operatic, almost-sung-through musicals, so you can listen to practically the whole show on this convenient CD. I don't know why anyone would, but you can.

Actually, I haven't even listened to a single song on this CD, so I'm not able to give an in depth look at the lyrics or the music. But I will reiterate: the show sucked. The reason the show sucked is for the same reason that most new musicals suck: Broadway is dead. I love musicals just as much as anybody . . . more than anybody, in fact. But the musical comedy, like all artforms, has had its time, and I think we should let it die.

The reason we should allow the death of Broadway is because the art of the musical comedy has grown to the point where anybody thinks he can make a musical. Just to prove my point, I would like to end this review with my musical rendition of the conception process for "The Secret Garden: The Musical", starring composer Lucy Simon and librettist Marsha Norman. I call it, "The Conception of 'The Secret Garden: The Musical': The Musical".

LUCY: Hey, Marsha, I'm bored. Let's make a musical.
MARSHA: What?
LUCY: I said let's make a musical.
MARSHA: What? Lucy, we can't just make a musical like that! Who'll write the lyrics and book?
LUCY: Well, Marsh, you're pretty good with words. I see you doing crossword puzzles all the time.
MARSHA: Okay, but who'll write the music?
LUCY: I can do that. Did you know I'm related to Carly Simon?
MARSHA: Well, that's good, Luce, but I still think it's harder than that. We need an original storyline.
LUCY: How about "The Secret Garden"?
MARSHA: Have you ever read it?
LUCY: Nope.
MARSHA: Neither have I.
LUCY: Marsha, Marsha, Marsha. That doesn't make a difference. You don't need to actually read the book to make a musical out of it. Musicals and books are completely different.
MARSHA: What makes you so sure that WE can write a musical, anyway?
LUCY: (sings)
Musicals aren't hard to write

They make 'em everyday.
You just need music, script, and lyrics
And you'll be on your way.

If you're eager to cash in
On all that Broadway glory, fine!
Just find yourself and tear apart
A pre-existing storyline!

You write the lyrics
(You can plunder it)
I'll write the music to go under it.
Anyone can make a musical!

You make the actors
Move their myelin
I'll make background with the violin.
Anyone can make a musical!

We can give The Secret Garden a new engaging look.

There'll be lots of plot and characters that weren't even in the book!

You understand what I'm saying now, Marsha?
MARSHA: I think I do, Lucy.
BOTH: (singing)
We'll open on Broadway
And put out a record.

MARSHA: And we'll sell out at ev'ry Eckerd!
LUCY: Think of how little work it will take.
MARSHA: Easy as a Swedish cake!
BOTH: (singing)
Anyone
Yes, anyone,
Can make a musical! ... Read more