The World of Swing

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
This swing-era compilation was originally issued in a two-LP set in 1974 as a companion to Stanley Dance's book The World of Swing, with Dance selecting the tunes and lending the original records used in the production. Timed to coincide with a reissue of the book, this CD adds three more tracks to Dance's original selection, creating a 77-minute anthology that's as good an introduction to the swing era as a single CD is likely to be. Dance, who died in 1999, was the style's greatest advocate, and his emphasis is clearly on musical highlights and representative selections of bands that truly swung, in one way or another. His operating procedure isn't simply "Golden Oldies," and the CD doesn't conflict with other anthologies: absent are the most popular smooth-dance bands of the era--the Dorseys and Glenn Miller--and figures like Benny Goodman aren't represented by their biggest hits.

There are great small groups here, as well as big bands, like violinist Stuff Smith doing the requisite 1930s marijuana song and John Kirby's six-member orchestra playing some elegant blues. The big bands include the raw power of Erskine Hawkins and the refinement of Benny Carter and the Lunceford aggregation. The early '30s roots are represented by Luis Russell and Don Redman. The CD leaps into the 1960s for the combined power of the Ellington and Basie bands and a modernist update with Woody Herman's take on a Horace Silver tune. --Stuart Broomer

Tracks:

Intro
Love Sneakin' Up On You - Sting & Joss Stone
Rock and Roll Hoochie Koo - Kenny Wayne Shepherd & Edgar Winter
Somebody Ease My Troublin' Mind - Eric Clapton & Sam Cooke
So Into You - Peter Frampton
How High The Moon - Les Paul & Alsou
Bad Case Of Lovin' You - Billy Gibbons (of ZZ Top)
I Wanna Know You - Neal Schon & Beth Hart
Good News - Jeff Beck & Sam Cooke
Let Me Roll It - Richie Sambora
Caravan - Les Paul
Good Morning Little Schoolgirl - Buddy Guy, Keith Richards, Rick Derringer
All I Want Is You - Johnny Rzeznik (of Goo Goo Dolls)
69 Freedom Special - Les Paul & Friends All Star Jam
Fly Like An Eagle (2005) - Steve Miller
I Love You More Than You'll Ever Know - Joe Perry & Mick Hucknall (of Simply Red)

Amazon.com

The range of artists stepping up to pay tribute to the master electric guitarist as he turns ninety is staggering. From '50s and '60s guitar slingers like Buddy Guy, Keith Richards, Jeff Beck, Eric Clapton, and Steve Miller to stars of subsequent decades like Billy Gibbons, Joe Perry, Richie Sambora, and Kenny Wayne Shepherd, they cross continents and generations. The songs celebrate the Les Paul guitar as well as the man. While he appears throughout, he's part of a generally raucous setting that leaves no volume knob unturned. The guests are often also the vocalists, but it's the guitars that carry the day. Purists may wag their fingers at the use of Sam Cooke's vocals in a contemporary recording, but Les Paul himself was never afraid of what new possibilities a tape recorder could unlock. --David Greenberger

Customer Reviews:

RIpping it up with Les.......2007-06-14

Wow. Les at 90 going after it with Jeff, my favorite guitarist ever? I think "Ain't that Good News" is the best song on the album, but not simply because of Jeff, though I am biased. They do some cool scuttle-buttin' together. Most other tracks, though average to good, are crammed with too many and too much guitar work, making most cuts plain noise-makers. There are some good cuts, but as others have said, who chose these songs? Some aren't even Les-type songs, and the players have no real connection to Les. I agree with others who have voted for Dickey Betts, Jimmy Page and other true Les Pauler's. But, we have what we have and that' all that we have. I would recommend it to other guitarists/blues/rock affecinado's, but think the Les and Mary benefit misses the true nature of what Les was about, although there is a ton of electronic gizmos used on the album-hey, maybe that is what it was about, not what songs they played, but what gizmo's they used. They should have included that in the liner notes. Any way, I will plug once more for Jeff's participation, because I think it is the one song where there aren't 49 guitarists slinging away and you can't tell who is playing what solos or which rhythym chops. Go Jeff Go! As I read the song titles I half expected the players/singers whom we know and love and remember covering them to be on these covers. Guess not, so enjoy what it is, cuz we won't always have old Les to play around with.

BC

Where's Les?.......2007-02-02

Not enough of Les... I've been a fan of his for 40 years. He deserves a better tribute album than this! It would be nice if it were all people who played the guitar with his namesake during their careers also!! The one nice thing was Steve Miller being included. A little history I read years ago is Les taught Steve to play the guitar!! COOL!! If I remember correctly, Steve Miller's father worked at Capitol Records and that's how Steve got connected with Les. Miller being on the album is the only plus for me. I love Les's playing and just don't hear it on this album. Like other's have said, I'd like to hear some of his shows from his gig every Monday night in NYC. You want to really here Les?? Go find some old 78's like I did when I was a teenager!!
Being a guitar player myself I knew who he was when I was a kid. I didn't appreciate him until I was in my 20's and I think he deserves more than this!! He's a national treasure at the very least!!!!!!!

Deserves at least 4 stars.......2006-11-16

For all you folks [reviewers] who were disappointed by this cd: LIGHTEN UP! The album is simply not what you hoped/expected it might be. The presentation as "Les Paul and Friends" was misleading as the music does not focus on the guitar playing of Les in a polite easy going way. Instead what you get is a fresh and well recorded collection of some truly great rock and R&B. Les himself strongly approved of the result of this collaboration. Get this cd and crank it up!

where's Jimmy?.......2006-07-23

What?? A Les Paul tribute without Jimmy Page? You must be joking! If Jimmy were in on the sessions, he would've made sure there was more Les!

One esxpects to hear Les Paul.......2006-07-19

When one purchases a recording with Les Paul's name on it, one expects to hear Les Paul.

Except for one track, Caravan, Les Paul may as well be an indistinguishable background musician.

Shame because Caravan is brilliant. This 90 year old man has not lost his playing ability, and it would have been better off to play songs from his old trio or with Mary Ford, and having a guest vocalist, BUT NO EXTRA GUITAR PLAYERS, or have cd made similar to the recordings he made with Chet Atkins, where one can hear Paul.

The only pleasant surprise is hearing how well Neal Schon (of Journey) can play. Even Peter Frampton, a brillant player who sacrifices his guitar playing for his pop tune, is a dud on this session.

Perhaps any recordings made of Paul's current club dates will show up, as they will better represent him than this does.

Overall, the songs are good and the playing by others is very good, but it is not a Les Paul recording and, given other reviews, has deceived a number of people

Northern Exposure: Music From The Television Series (1990-95 Television Series)

Average customer rating:

STILL MY FAVORITE
Better than I remember
Totally rocks
Music that Grows on You
The Chris Stevens Album Collection

Northern Exposure: Music From The Television Series (1990-95 Television Series)
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Mca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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More Music From Northern Exposure (1990-95 Television Series)
Northern Exposure - The Complete Fourth Season
Northern Exposure - The Complete Fifth Season
Northern Exposure - The Complete Third Season
Northern Exposure - The Complete Sixth Season

ASIN: B000002OMG
Release Date: 1992-09-15

Tracks:

Theme From Northern Exposure - David Schwartz
Jolie Louise - Daniel Lanois
Hip Hug-Her - Booker T. & The MG's
At Last - Etta James
Everybody Be Yoself - Chic Street Man
Alaskan Nights - David Schwartz
Don Quichotte - Magazine 60
When I Grow Too Old To Dream - Nat "King" Cole & His Trio/Stuff Smith
Emabhaceni - Miriam Makeba
Gimme Three Steps - Lynyrd Skynyrd
Bailero (from "Chants D'Auvergne") - Frederica Von Stade
David Schwartz Medley: Funeral In My Brain, A / Woody The Indian / Tellakutans, The

Customer Reviews:

STILL MY FAVORITE.......2007-03-23

This CD has to be one of the best I have ever listened to. The music is a wonderful mix, especially when you have a group of very diverse listeners (all ages). It appeals to everyone and puts everyone in a GOOD MOOD!!! I would highly recommend it!!

Better than I remember.......2007-03-08

I originally bought this as a cassette soon after the TV show reached NZ. I was clearing up and found it and thought it would be great to get it on CD to listen again to the great compilation. And I wasn't disappointed. What a great sound. The music is so lively and enjoyable. Brings a smile to my face.

Totally rocks.......2006-09-11

OMG! This CD totally rocked because it has the best music in the world, okay? Geez, its time to rock out and also relax sometimes too because one time I was just listening to it and it was fun too but then I was tired and even still it was a great CD.

Music that Grows on You.......2006-08-01

Several years ago, I bought this CD for my wife, and it has been gathering dust ever since. So I signed onto eBay and started a listing to sell it. While I was doing that, I decided to play the CD, since I had never heard it played before. There is no way I am going to sell that CD now. It is far too good.

Furthermore, while the CD was playing, my wife asked me what it was. When I told her, she said, "Don't you dare sell that CD!" She has nothing to fear. I have played it several times now, and I like it better each time I listen.

The Chris Stevens Album Collection.......2006-07-30

That was the basis for Chris being the disc jockey at KBHR radio (he had all the records) and a few of them are spotlighted in this album. I think that David Swartz had a cut or two more than he should have been allowed in this album, while more music from the show should have been featured. Still, it's a pretty good album featuring a very wide range of eclectic music typical of what was played on the show, and for that I enjoyed the collection.

Those Were Our Songs: Music of World War II

Average customer rating:

stellar compilation.
Awesome collection for the WWII generation...
GREAT CD- Had a 1940's party -Residents Loved it!
Good songs, but some later remakes
You'll be singing these songs all day long.

Those Were Our Songs: Music of World War II
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Capitol
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Songs That Got Us Through WWII
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ASIN: B00005QKG0
Release Date: 2001-11-06

Tracks:

I'll Be With You In Apple Blossom Time - the Andrews Sisters
Green Eyes - Helen O'Connell
Who Wouldn't Love You? - Kay Kyser
Jersey Bounce - Benny Goodman & His Orchestra
Cow-Cow Boogie - Ella Mae Morse & Freddie Slack
A Sleepy Lagoon - Harry James
Strip Polka - Johnny Mercer
I Had The Craziest Dream - Helen Forrest
Jukebox Saturday Night - Tex Beneke & The Modernaires
Praise The Lord & Pass The Ammunition - Kay Kyser & His Orchestra
Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy - The Andrews Sisters
I've Heard That Song Before - Harry James & His Orchestra
Shoo-Shoo Baby - Ella Mae Morse
Amor - Andy Russell
Straighten Up And Fly Right - Nat King Cole
Long Ago (And Far Away) - Jo Stafford
G.I. Jive - Johnny Mercer
I'll Walk Alone - Martha Tilton
It Had To Be You - Betty Hutton
The Trolley Song - The Pied Pipers

Tracks:

Rum And Coca-Cola - The Andrews Sisters
Candy - Johnny Mercer w/Jo Stafford & The Pied Pipers
Sentimental Journey - Les Brown & His Band Of Renown
Dream - The Pied Pipers
Chattanooga Choo Choo - Ray Anthony & His Orchestra
Chloe (Song Of The Swamp) - Spike Jones & His Orchestra
On The Atchison, Topeka & The Santa Fe - Johnny Mercer & The Pied Pipers
Tampico - Stan Kenton & His Orchestra
Waiting For The Train To Come In - Peggy Lee
It's Been A Long, Long Time - Harry James & His Orchestra
Doctor, Lawyer, Indian Chief - Betty Hutton
Jingle, Jangle, Jingle - Kay Kyser
The Hut-Sut Song - Freddy Martin & His Orchestra
Mr. Five-By-Five - Ella Mae Morse & Freddie Slack
It's Only A Paper Moon - Nat King Cole
Do Nothin' 'Til You Hear From Me - Stan Kenton & His Orchestra
I Love You - Jo Stafford
Mairzy Doats - The Pied Pipers
It Might As Well Be Spring - Dick Haynes
Ac-Cent-Tchu-Ate The Positive - Johnny Mercer & The Pied Pipers

Customer Reviews:

stellar compilation........2007-03-19

i did not arrive on the planet until 1961, so these were not my songs, but i am loving them all the same. a devoted audiophile, i have been acquiring a taste for popular music from the forties only recently. this is a stellar collection if you are looking for pop music from that era. if you get this double cd compilation, rhino records 2 cd's titled "songs that got us through WWII volumes 1 & 2," and "G.I. jukebox," from hip-o records, you will have 5 discs (with some, but not much overlap in songs) of music to transport you back in time for an entire evening. highly enjoyable stuff.

Awesome collection for the WWII generation..........2007-03-02

I work with elderly people and purchased this CD to play for them at their New Year's Eve party. They loved it.... Nostalgia was definitely in the air. There are a lot of songs on this CD for a great price. Highly recommended.

GREAT CD- Had a 1940's party -Residents Loved it!.......2007-01-18

Ordered this cd for our 1940's Afternoon of Music. Our Elderly Residents Loved it! Great selection!

Good songs, but some later remakes.......2006-06-03

I don't want to rain on anyone's parade, if you're enjoying this collection -- I hope you'll continue to enjoy it.

But those who are thinking about purchasing this set should know that some of these recordings are not the original versions, but were recorded well after World War II. For example, the Andrews Sisters and Harry James, among the artists represented on this compilation issued by Capitol, were not on that label until after the war. The reason that the sound quality here is so good, at least on some songs, is that those recordings were made in stereo during the 1950s.

Even the usually reliable All Music Guide mistakenly assumed that Capitol created this good-sounding collection through cross-label licensing and 24-bit mastering. In reality, the label simply used its own later versions of some of the songs, rather than licensing the originals from other labels.

None of this is a reason not to enjoy this collection unless you're looking for recordings that were actually around during World War II -- if so, you'll need to keep searching. I give this collection only 2 stars because I think that Capitol may be trying to convince consumers that these are the original versions of the recordings, when they're not. (If Capitol had actually obtained those originals, this collection would deserve 5 stars easily.)

You'll be singing these songs all day long........2006-01-23

Of all the CDs of songs of the 1940s that I have heard, this one really touched both me and my wife a lot. We play the songs whenever we are in the car and we find ourselves waking up in the morning singing these wonderful songs.

The remastering has produced terrific sounds of these songs we grew up with. This would be a wonderful gift for someone who was alive in during Worl War II. Or, a wonderful gift if you want to know what music was like in the 1940s (which we refer to as the good old days).

So many of the big bands of those days like Les Brown, Kay Kyser, Harry James, Stan Kenton. And vocalists like The Andrew Sisters, Helen O'Connell, Peggy Lee, and Jo Stafford singing these songs just as they sounded back then.

This music brings back those wonderful days when a typical date was to go dancing to one of these bands. You'll have such good memories when you hear them.

My wife and I couldn't be any happier or more enthused by any other CDs (yes there are two CDs, a total of 40 songs).

Do you remember Mairzy Doats, Tampico, the Pied Pipers singing Dream, Drinkin Rum and Coca Cola, Long Ago and Far Away, Johnny Mercer singing Strip Polka, and Praise the Lord and Pass the Ammunition. So many great songs popular during World War II.

Average customer rating:

GI Jukebox
G. I. Jukebox
excellent compilation of popular WWII music.
Sentimental and fun songs of a great era !
"dream come true for nostalgic music collectors"

G.I. Jukebox: Songs from World War II
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Hip-O Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Songs That Got Us Through WWII
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Billboard Pop Memories: 1945-1949

ASIN: B00000DI1Q
Release Date: 1998-11-17

Tracks:

Paper Doll - The Mills Brothers
I'll Walk Alone - Dinah Shore
Blues In The Night - Woody Herman
Tangerine - Jimmy Dorsey
As Times Goes By - Rudy Vallee
You'll Never Know - Dick Haymes
I'm Making Believe - ELLA FITZGERALD & THE INK SPOTS
G.I. Jive - Louis Jordan
(There'll Be A) Hot Time In The Town Of Berlin (When The Yanks Go Marching In) - Bing Crosby & The Andrews Sisters
Comin' In On A Wing And A Prayer - The Song Spinners
Mairzy Doats - The Merry Macs
Daddy - Sammy Kaye
Candy - Johnny Mercer/Jo Stafford/The Pied Pipers
Rum And Coca-Cola - The Andrews Sisters
On The Atchison, Topeka And The Santa Fe - Johnny Mercer
My Heart Tells Me - Glen Gray & The Casa Loma Orchestra
Dream - The Pied Pipers
I'll Be Seeing You - Bing Crosby

Customer Reviews:

GI Jukebox.......2007-04-11

This is an excellent collection of the nostalgic songs from World War II. I was born in 1935, so was very young when this music was the rage. However, my parents managed a boarding house for young military men stationed at what is now Ellsworth AFB, SD, and their wives. The wives spent the long days playing the piano and singing some of these songs. It is a time in my life that I will cherish always.

G. I. Jukebox.......2007-03-28

Collections dealing with World War II abound; this is a good introductory one. Nothing out of the ordinary here (although Rudy Vallee's "As Time Goes By" is an unexpected treat, along with the Merry Macs' "Mairzy Doats"), but recommended for those who want a general overview.

excellent compilation of popular WWII music........2007-03-18

born in 1961, i, until recently, did not get much enjoyment from the popular music of the forties. as a passionate audiophile geek, i love exploring music of all the decades to which there is recorded sound. though my first flirtations with hits of the 40's did not go over to well, i did not give up. i came back to that decade. it was rhino records wonderful two volume collection "songs that got us through WWII," that really turned me around. i now find myself getting lots of pleasure from the popular music of this era. this collection: "G.I. Jukebox," is a complete winner, just like the double rhino collection i mentioned, it transports one to another time and another american culture. sometimes cheesy (nothing wrong with that), and always pleasing to hear, the songs on this disc are warm relics of a bygone era. i highly recommend this compilation to one and all.

Sentimental and fun songs of a great era ! .......2007-02-19

I bought this CD for a retirement gift for a lady who worked 44 years as a school cook. She loves anything World War II era. Another lady at the party had me order it for her as well. I really liked the selections, and I'm 25 years younger than those ladies!

"dream come true for nostalgic music collectors".......2000-04-07

This probably is one of the most thorough single disc collections of World War II hits ever assembled. Many tracks related - "THERE'LL BE A HOT TIME IN THE TOWN OF BERLIN (WHEN THE YANKS GO MARCHING IN)" with Bing Crosby and The Andrew Sisters - "COMIN' IN ON A WING AND A PRAYER" performed by The Song Spinners, both tracks have World War II related themes. A few stand outs - "MAIRZY DOATS" an original Merry Macs 1944 hit, not available on many compilations - "CANDY" has Johnny Mercer, Jo Stafford and The Pied Pipers with this 1945 Chart Topper.

Songwriter Johnny Mercer has five of the eighteen tracks from his long career represented on this excellent Hip-O Record compilation, each with the original artists and version. One further note, all selections reached number one on "Billboard Charts" between 1941 and 1945. A dream come true for nostalgic music collectors.

Tracks:

Sweet Peace
Be Still, My Soul
Peace Like a River
All Things Bright and Beautiful
Lord Is My Shepherd
This Is My Father's World
Wayfarin' Stranger
Lord, Make Me an Instrument of Thy Peace
Swing Low, Sweet Chariot
Deep River
Lamb
Child's Prayer
It Is Well With My Soul
Count Your Blessings Instead of Sheep
Gaelic Blessing
Thou Gracious God, Whose Mercy Lends
Come, Let Us Anew

Customer Reviews:

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

This CD is a must have for any Mormon Tabernacle Choir fans. The music is very reverent and gentle, and should also appeal to those not from the LDS church, seeing as how most of the music is common to the wider Christian community. This CD is a fantastic addition to any music collection.

A few bright spots, but also some disappointments.......2007-01-19

It Is Well With My Soul is one of my favorite-favorites and that is the main reason why I bought the CD; it turned out to be a huge let down on this album, they rearranged it so much that I almost didn't recognize it. Be Still My Soul is another reason why I bought it and it's good, but not great. Swing Low Sweet Chariot is where it starts to get good. The last two songs "Thou Gracious God, Whose Mercy Lends"
and "Come, Let Us Anew" are very good reasons to buy this CD, they each have truely powerful passages and make the CD worth having. The Mormon Tabernacle Choirs 2006 release entitled Then Sings My Soul is by far the best that I've heard from them.

This CD Deserves SIX Stars!.......2005-11-05

However, the rating scale has a limit of five. I own over 700 CDs of virtually every type of music. Peace Like A River belongs in a class by itself! I've never written a review before but, after listening to this STUNNING performance by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, I feel compelled to share my praise with that of the five other reviewers. If I were limited to one word, I would use the word "SUPERB" to describe this beautiful and moving CD. SIX stars for Peace Like a River! BRAVO!!!

every good adjective .......2005-08-06

This album is all beauty and solace. The singing is pristine, the arrangements lush and often stirring--never saccharine. As with the previous reviewer, my first listing of "Peace Like a River" brought me to tears (especially "Peace Like a River," the sopranos in "Swing Low," and the bagpipes in "Thou Gracious God"). Buy this one.

Fabulous!.......2005-05-29

The perfect recording to help you recover from a long, hard day. Showcasing the MTC's "new" sound in contemporary choral arrangements with its own orchestra and conductor, "Peace Like a River" brought tears to my eyes in selection after selection during my first listen -- and I'm not normally an emotional person! The title song together with "Deep River," "Swing Low" and "Be Still My Soul" are alone worth the cost of the recording. Get this one!

Average customer rating:

Big bang for the buck

16 Most Requested Polkas
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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World's Greatest Polka Package
World's Greatest Polkas
22 Great Polkas
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European Polka Hits, Vol. 1

ASIN: B0000026SN
Release Date: 1989-07-26

Tracks:

Clarinet Polka - Jimmy Dorsey
Hop Scotch Polka - Frankie Yankovic
I'm Gonna Get A Dummy - Frankie Yankovic
On Your Toes - Babe Wagner Band
Hey, Hey Farmer Gray - Walt Solek
Too Fat Polka - Frankie Yankovic
Licorice Stick Polka - Jimmy Dorsey
The Beer Barrel Polka (Roll Out The Barrel) - Frankie Yankovic
What Do I Care? - Walt Solek
Helena Polka - Jimmy Dorsey
Hoop-dee-doo - Frankie Yankovic
Doghouse Polka - Babe Wagner
Krakowiak - Walt Solek
Julida Polka - Jimmy Dorsey
Just Because - Frankie Yankovic
Ta-ra-ra-boom-de-ay - Walt Solek

Customer Reviews:

Big bang for the buck.......2007-02-07

My mother, age 86, loved this CD. She got a CD player and wanted polka music to play while using her treadmill. She was very impressed with the number of songs included.

Average customer rating:

The Man With The Velvet Voice
Smooth
Trying Out the King? Start Here
Capitol has outdone itself with the finest Nat King Cole single disc set ever offered
The World of Nat King Cole

The World Of Nat King Cole
Nat King Cole
Manufacturer: Capitol
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Classic Sinatra
Dino: The Essential Dean Martin
Love Songs
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The Greatest Hits [Capitol]

ASIN: B00065YMRG
Release Date: 2005-01-25

Tracks:

Smile
It's Only A Paper Moon
Straighten Up And Fly Right
(Get Your Kicks On) Route 66
(I Love You) For Sentimental Reasons
Nature Boy
Too Young
Unforgettable
Walkin' My Baby Back Home
Orange Colored Sky
Send For Me
A Blossom Fell
Quizas, Quizas, Quizas (Perhaps, Perhaps, Perhaps)
On The Street Where You Live
Almost Like Being In Love
Darling, Je Vous Aime Beaucoup
Mona Lisa
Ramblin' Rose
Let There Be Love
L-O-V-E
You Stepped Out Of A Dream
Just One Of Those Things
Let's Face The Music And Dance
Day In - Day Out
Thou Swell (live at The Sands, 1965)
When I Fall In Love
Unforgettable (virtual duet w/ Natalie Cole)
Stardust

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

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

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Customer Reviews:

The Man With The Velvet Voice.......2006-06-18

It's been around forty years since the passing of the legendary Mr. Nat King Cole.And even to this day his music lives on thorough his many fans some new and some old.Mr Cole was a extraordinary singer,piano player and a musical genius who had a natural feel for music.And to this day his influence and style is still having it's effect on the music world.And in this modern age I think only Luther Vandross came close to matching the magic and style of Nat King Cole.This ablum 'The World Of Nat King Cole' gives us some of his best vocal songs like 'When I Fall In Love,Too Young,Smile and A Blosson Fell'.That's just a taste of the Cole magic.And if you want more check out the unforgettable 'Unforgettable' one of Cole's best songs with it's wonderful lyrics.The way he sings 'Mona Lisa' really touchs the heart.The Velvet voice of Cole is at it's best on 'Nature Boy' with its philosophical overtures.And I just love the songs 'On The Street Where You Live' and 'I Love You(For Sentimental Reasons'.Beautiful songs for people in love.So just how popular is Mr. Cole's music today? Well a few years ago his daughter Natalie wanted to rejuvenate her career.She was smart enough to record a album of her fathers work titled 'Unforgettable'.Needles to say the album was a big hit for her.And it did wonders for her career.Yes,Mr.Nat King Cole the man with the velvet voice.Wonderful musical world just keeps turning and entertaining.

Smooth.......2006-03-13

Nothing beats the smooth sound of Nat King Cole. Some songs I hadn't heard in years. Brought back a lot of good memories.

Trying Out the King? Start Here.......2006-03-08

If you're an avid Cole Collector, there's really nothing new here. However, if you're new to Nat King Cole's music, this is an excellant starting point. Not only are the Original versions of his influencial singles here (except Smile which is from his 1961 album "The Nat King Cole Story", and "Send For Me", which is a re-engineered version of the 1957 hit from the 1965 album "Looking Back")but there are also some gems from his LP releases as well, like On the Street Where You Live, from his "My Fair Lady" album, and "Let's Face the Music", from the '64 album of the same name. This album is pretty much a retread of the "Greatest Hits" package from 1994, and the "Capitol Collectors Series" from 1990, but with a few extra goodies. You've got a beautifully created booklet, with lots of rare photos of Nat with President Kennedy, Queen Elizabeth, and even relaxing at home with his kids. Good Stuff. Now, Capitol, where is the long awaited television documentary "The World Of Nat King Cole", that was supposed to accompany this CD? It has already aired in Great Britain, and is on DVD there. Why not here?

Capitol has outdone itself with the finest Nat King Cole single disc set ever offered.......2005-10-07

Over the years I have owned any number of Nat King Cole collections. Although I never failed to enjoy the music I found each of those vinyl LP's or compact discs to be flawed in some way. Collectors like myself have long been clamoring for something better. Finally in 2005 Capitol Records has seen fit to correct this egregious oversight.
Nearly three years in the making, "The World of Nat King Cole" provides the listener with nearly 80 minutes of the very best that this beloved and legendary performer has to offer. Please understand that this disc is not really intended to be a "greatest hits" package. That would be virtually impossible for Nat King Cole because just about every song he ever recorded had the potential to become a "greatest hit". Rather, "The World of Nat King Cole" provides the listener an outstanding overview of a recording career at Capitol that spanned nearly a quarter century. You'll hear several of his biggest numbers with the King Cole Trio. Songs such as "Straighten Up and Fly Right", "Nature Boy" and "Route 66" were huge hits in the early 1940's and remain popular to this day. If you are hoping to find some of Nat's biggest solo hits you certainly will not be disappointed. Enjoy once again all-time favorites like "Ramblin' Rose", "Too Young", "Walkin' My Baby Back Home" and so many others. But what distinguishes "The World of Nat King Cole" from so many other of the previous compilations is the inclusion of some of the best material from his LP's. I especially enjoyed a tune called "Let There Be Love", a terrific jazz number that was featured on the 1962 album "Nat King Cole Sings/George Shearing Plays". There is also a song from his "Live At The Sands" LP and three upbeat numbers backed by the swingin' Billy May Orchestra. Rounding out the collection is the remarkable 1991 recording of "Unforgettable" with his daughter Natalie Cole.
Kudos to the engineers at Capitol Records for the unbelievable remastering job on these songs. Each and every one of the songs on this disc is crystal clear. I was simply overwhelmed by the sound on songs like "Nature Boy", "Orange Colored Sky" and "L-O-V-E". It was literally like hearing many of these songs for the very first time! And I would be remiss if I failed to mention the outstanding 28 page booklet that is just packed with photos and facts about the man and his music. Whether you are a long time fan of Nat King Cole or sampling his music for the very first time this is the collection you want. "The World of Nat King Cole" stands head and shoulders above all the rest. Very Highly Recommended.

The World of Nat King Cole.......2005-07-26

If you are like me and have bought every Nat Cole anthology because you know he is one of the best ever, but now have half a dozen "greatest hits" albums, you might wonder "why buy another one?" In one word, engineering: the data extraction from the old Ampex tapes and 78 masters just keeps getting better (compliments to the remastering group at Capital; I know it's a lot more than "engineering"). The song selection is terrific and the liner notes are too, but if you have high quality audio, the sound will transport you. It is studio quality, almost "master tape" sound, significantly better than anything done previously. Is Nat's version of "Stardust" the ultimate one, a masterpiece of popular song? This disc may convince you, if you are not already.

The Essential Leontyne Price: Spirituals, Hymns & Sacred Songs

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The Price Club
A living legend
not your daddy's old timey spiritual
Immaculate Vocals of Leontyne Price
Great Gospel Stuff

The Essential Leontyne Price: Spirituals, Hymns & Sacred Songs

Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Price, Leontyne | Divas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music

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Leontyne Price: The Ultimate Collection
Leontyne Price Christmas Songs Chants de Noel.Weihnachtslieden Wiener Philharmoniker Herbert Von Karajan
Spirituals in Concert
Amazing Grace: Jessye Norman
Spirituals

ASIN: B000003FWE
Release Date: 1997-01-14

Tracks:

Ev'ry Time I Feel The Spirit - Various Artists
Let Us Break Bread Together On Our Knees - Various Artists
His Name So Sweet - Various Artists
'Roun' About The Mountain - Various Artists
Swing Low , Sweet Chariot - Various Artists
Sit Down, Servant - Various Artists
Were You There - Various Artists
He's Got The Whole World In His Hands - Various Artists
Deep River - Various Artists
Honor! Honor! - Various Artists
My Soul's Been Anchored In De Lord - Various Artists
On Ma Journey - Various Artists
A City Called Heaven - Various Artists
Ride On, King Jesus - Various Artists
I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel To Be Free - Various Artists
Sinner, Please Don't Let This Harvest Pass - Various Artists
Sweet Little Jesus Boy - Various Artists
There Is A Balm In Gilead - Various Artists
Let Us Cheer The Weary Traveler - Various Artists
Ev'ry Time I Feel The Spirit - Various Artists
My Way Is Cloudy - Various Artists
Nobody Knows The Touble I've Seen - Various Artists
I Couldn't Hear Nobody Pray - Various Artists

Tracks:

Holy, Holy, Holy - Leontyne Price
Lead, Kindly Light - Leontyne Price
Blessed Assurance - Leontyne Price
Ave Maria - Leontyne Price
What A Friend We Have In Jesus - Leontyne Price
Amazing Grace - Leontyne Price
The Lord's Prayer - Leontyne Price
Pass Me Not, O Gentle Savior - Leontyne Price
The Church's One Foundation - Leontyne Price
Bless This House - Leontyne Price
I Need Thee Every Hour - Leontyne Price
Schlesische Volkslieder: Fairest Lord Jesus - Leontyne Price
I Wonder As I Wander - Leontyne Price
Ave Maria - Leontyne Price
Porgy And Bess: Summertime - Leontyne Price
America The Beautiful - Leontyne Price
Lift Ev'ry Voice And Sing - Leontyne Price
A Mighty Fortress Is Our God - Leontyne Price
Battle Hymn Of The Republic - Leontyne Price

Customer Reviews:

The Price Club.......2005-04-28

"I am here," said Leontyne Price when interviewed as she opened the new Metropolitan Opera with Samuel Barber's underrated ANTONY AND CLEOPATRA, "and you will know that I am the best and will hear me. The color of my skin or the kink of my hair or the spread of my mouth has nothing to do with what you are listening to." Back in the 1960s Price was one of the greatest divas in all of opera, and it wasn't just her voice but her magnificent stage presence, combined with her social activism. All of the above come into play in this collection of secular songs and ditties, some of them traditional plantation chanties and others, art songs and a scattering of pop music. And some of them, like Gershwin's "Summertime," cross the ever-permeable boundaries between Broadway and classical. These recordings were made at different times in Price's career, and her voice, while always angelic, has different shadings and reaches a different range of timbre in each separate recording date, but there is no question that, as time goes by, she is able to impart a richness of life experience noticeably absent from some of her earlier work.

"Ave Maria" sounds heavenly no matter which way you slice it, and as for "I Wonder As I Wander," it brings tears to your eyes. If you have a heart that's beating you will be moved by this rendition. "Ein feste Burg" is pretty strong, but Price seems more comfortable with the traditional spirituals, though perhaps it is the slightly off-kilter sounds of the Ambrosian Singers (what a name) who back her up on many of these tracks, that detract slightly from the experience. Compare "Lead Kindly Light" for a clear sense of what constitutes authority vs. what is a wee bit overproduced. If you had this compilation, and perhaps one of Leontyne Price's Christmas albums, you could attain nirvana any time you wanted to, just flip a switch and close your eyes, let her lift you up on wings of song.

A living legend.......2005-03-10

Leontyne Price (still alive) and already passing into immortality amongst vocal artists, both classical and popular. Leontyne Price stands at the pinnacle of her classical art, but those who only know her work in La Forza del destino or the Verdi Requiem are in for a heart rending treat with this album where Leontyne Price goes home to her roots in Mississippi and gives an unabashed account of the classic spirituals she sang as a young woman. Like John Mc Cormacks rendering of Irish songs there is a personal longing and devotion expressed here that reveals a side of the artist not known in the bulk of their "classical" repetoire. A sense of going home like Citizen Kane's rosebud, or as Dorothy Gale observes at the end of the Wizard of Oz "everything I could ever have wanted was right in my own backyard "

not your daddy's old timey spiritual.......2004-06-23

Agreed this is a good cd for a beautiful voice, but this is not, repeat not, for someone who wants to hear that old-timey religious fervor that you think of when you've been to a Black Baptist hand-clapping, standing, swaying, and singing service.

Immaculate Vocals of Leontyne Price.......2003-12-31

IMMACULATE, SUPERB vocal range and style! There's no other words that can complement Miss Leontyne Price's vocal arrangements. Miss Price's voice is strong, and shrills very nicely to the instruments played on many songs listed on this double CD which is a joy to treasure; every song listed are songs I was raised to hearing and singing. Miss Price is the reason why many of these songs remain in popularity and presently used. Miss Leontyne Price has been incredible in many of her past performances. This is my fourth CD of Miss Price and I am glad to own this particular CD forever and ever. Many thanks to the executors who found this remarkable album and upgraded it to a CD format! **Angi**

Great Gospel Stuff.......2001-04-12

This is a great CD. The only problem I have with it is that on some of the selections there is a boy's choir screaming in the background, and this takes away (a bit) from her performance. That said, her best selections are those that are either unaccompanied or those where her voice is not buried. Songs that strike me are - His Name So Sweet, He's Got The Whole World, Were You There, I Wonder as I Wander, Lift Every Voice and Sing, and my all time favourite Summertime. Enough said.

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Amazing Accidental Discovery!
Elis is a gift from God!
Two giant musicians !
Stunning! A Six Star Tour De Force!!!
Pure Fire - Elis Regina ensemble with Toots on harmonica

Aquarela Do Brasil
Jean 'Toots' Thielemans and Elis Regina
Manufacturer: Polygram Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Brazil | South & Central America | International | Styles | Music

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Elis & Tom
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ASIN: B00000471V
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

Wave
Aquarela Do Brasil
Visao
Corrida De Jangada
Wilsamba
Voce
Barquinho
O Sonho
Five For Elis
Canto De Ossanha
Honeysuckle Rose
Volta

Customer Reviews:

Amazing Accidental Discovery!.......2007-07-05

As an avid jazz-samba fan from the era of those Getz/Gilberto/Jobim (etc.) collaborations, I am stunned to imagine -and embarrassed to admit that I did not know of Elis Regina before recently stumbling by accident into these extraordinary reviews on the Amazon site. The obvious question was, "Could anything be as good as these people say?!!" The answer is YES! For starters, the magic of this beautiful CD thoroughly compares to that experienced when I first heared the other albums referenced above, and then some! Not at all because these selections display great musical innovation or complexity within this genre; -they don't, and that is what makes these performances so delightful from start to finish. That is, this is music which "sings", and goes straight to the heart of the listener. The whole group sound like they are enjoying themselves enormously during the sessions, and I still find myself unable to sit still when this album is on! Rather, the compulsion to tap one's toes, or to rise and start dancing (with or without partner available) is simply irrepressible! Small wonder, therefore, that the polite and cool-tempered Swedes who observed these recording sessions were spellbound, or so it seems, by the spectacle of these Brazilians having so much fun while "working"! For Elis Regina, she is everything the other reviewers say, and she grows on me increasingly with each new listening; her loss at such a young age is forever saddening and confounding to me. Very thankfully, however, the recording engineers have captured and preserved the moment for us magnificently with this album. I am also very pleased, as well, to be introduced to the music of Toots Thielemans, who blends into this group with absolute perfection.

Elis is a gift from God!.......2006-08-26

Elis is my one and only singer! I am sorry to say this, but Elis does not sing, SHE HUMILIATES THE REST! As a Brazilian I am very proud of her singing so many wonderful Brazilian songs and share them with the world. Thank you, Elis! I love you!

Two giant musicians !.......2004-12-05

Two legends : two unforgettable names for the musical story of Brazil .
Toots Thielemans is an extarordinary musician . His wide scope has allowd him to face one of the widest spectre of the music .
In this famous recording dated from 1969 Elis Regina (the divine , unforgettable and supreme brazilian song goddess and one of most inspired female singers ever) joined theor gifts to giva the world a tresure of thousand carats .
Canto de Ossanha, Aquarela de Brazil , O barquinho and Wave are among the best tracks of this spectacular and glorious CD . The only complaint -if I may- is the shortness of this album . Thought and recorded according the LP laws: Twelve tracks and that's all . I have the hidden hope someone finds records not available before or recording sessions never released before to get the chance to enjoy the craft of this fantastic combination .
Acquire this CD and get close to the world of this giant couple .

Stunning! A Six Star Tour De Force!!!.......2004-05-19

On a scale of 1 to 5, "Aquarela Do Brasil" is a SIX!! One of the great MPB performances of all time, with Toots Thielemans adding soaring beautiful harmonica/guitar solos between some truly amazing vocals by Elis Regina. Plus Toots gives three solid solo performances, including an Elis tribute.

Recorded in 1969, during a "howling snowstorm" in Stockholm Sweden of all places, the Brazilian Super-Diva, Elis Regina, and the acclaimed jazz master, Toots Thielemans, conjured up a steaming, mid-summer Brazilian beach in the studio. Elis is on fire throughout and clearly having alot of fun! Her musical quintet, Elis Cinco, is brilliant and audibly enthusiastic. Singing with a wide range of emotions and tossing off gymnastic phrases with ease, Elis is incredible! She wields her voice like a knief, cutting quickly and deeply into each song. Toots is equally brilliant and the entire ensemble plays like old musical friends. I speak no Portuguese but this music is as clear as a crystal.

Normally I pick out a "Piece D'Resistance" in every CD, but this CD is so uniformly brilliant that there are too many outstanding performances by both artists to pick one. The sensuous, sultry "Barquinho" (Little Boat) is cast as an overpowering ballad performance that will slow your breathing. "Voce", the tongue twisting "Corrida de Jangada", and the sizzling "Wave" (with Elis' patented "sozinho" Afro-Brazilian tagline at the end) are new again. She totally personalizes "Aquarela Do Brasil" using the 'bridge' only and then adds the batucada "Nega do Cabelo Duro" to it, infusing it with humor and the sound of "crickets": very unique performance. And the octave-jumping tour de force of "Cantu de Ossanha" is spine-tingling great singing like no one else can do it.

I bought this CD primarily out of curiosity about the combination of Toots & Elis. I had recently bought the excellent "Chez Toots" CD and noticed this CD in his discography. I popped it in the CD player and wandered away. The next morning the CD player woke me up with "Wave" and I was captivated and totally amazed for the next hour. As a jazz, classical, and pop music fan, I KNOW singers and this singer was someone very, very special. She understood nuance, emotion, improvisation, the blues (ok, "saudade", if you must), how to deliver a knockout punch and leave us wanting more. It's no wonder they called her 'The Hurricane'. Now I'm collecting more Elis recordings and have just purchased the self-titled first CD cut by her multiple Grammy-winning daughter, "Maria Rita". With this CD, Elis (over twenty years after her tragic accidental death) has stolen my musical heart. She ranks in the company of the greatest singers ever: Ella, Sarah, Maria Callas, Judy, and LadyDay. I think she realized she was really a jazz singer at heart interpreting MBP. Believe me, this CD should be required listening for ALL music fans who love GREAT MUSIC. Definitely, a SIX !

Snowstorm? What snowstorm? LOL

Pure Fire - Elis Regina ensemble with Toots on harmonica.......2003-05-18

One of the outstanding Elis Regina's characteristics as a singer was not only her quality as a vocal master. She also knew very well how to choose her musicians and arrangers.

And she also had all great Brazilian musicians at her keep. They used to say it was very hard to work under her top parameters but the result was prestige. Many American songbirds became famous on this aspect - this reminds me of Carmen McRae and Betty Carter - and like them, Elis Regina always brought luck to all musicians and composers she recorded with.

This album counted on her trio in 1969, leaded by pianist and composer Antonio Adolfo. This same trio made her European tour in 1969 and recorded this album with Toots Thielemens in Sweden.

Half the program consists of instrumentals with the trio plus Toots. Very Great!

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"Lord, How Come Me Here"
WOW!
uhm......yeah right!!
scadalise my name
Broadway takes on the spiritual ...

Spirituals in Concert

Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Deutsche Grammophon: Music | Specialty Stores | Music
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The Essential Leontyne Price: Spirituals, Hymns & Sacred Songs
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So Many Stars

ASIN: B000001GDC
Release Date: 1991-03-08

Tracks:

In That Great Getting Up Morning
Sinner, Please Don't Let This Harvest Pass
Over My Head/ Lil' David
Oh, What A Beautiful City
Lord, How Come Me Here
I Believe I'll Go Back Home-Lordy, Won't You Help Me
Ride On, King Jesus
Swing Low, Sweet Chariot-Ride Up In The Chariot
You Can Tell The World
Scandalize My Name
Great Day
Oh, Glory
Calvary-They Crucified My Lord
Talk About A Child
Gospel Train
My God Is So High
There Is A Balm In Gilead
He's Got The Whole World In His Hand

Customer Reviews:

"Lord, How Come Me Here".......2007-06-18

I must add, to the praises above, that Kathleen Battle's "Lord, How Come Me Here" is the best "quick" explanation of the long-lasting effects of slavery that I can think of. The line, "They sold my children away," says it all.

And the VERY funny "Scandelize My Name" is also worth the price of the total album!

Alinde O'Malley

WOW!.......2007-03-22

You know, after owning both the CD and VHS of this performance, and having been coached by Sylvia Olden Lee herself, it is no wonder why spiritual mean so much to me. And these two ladies bare their souls and bring these masterpieces to life! WOW!!!

uhm......yeah right!!.......2006-06-21

Clearly you are mistaken. I don't know who that guy is-the person below recommended-but there is NO COMPARISON to JESSYE NORMAN AND KATHLEEN BATTLE!!!! Jessye Norman herself has *30* HONARY DOCTRATES from places like Harvard, Juliard, Yale, Cambridge....I mean HELLO!!!! That guy had no where near the ease, the musicality or even the breath support as these two veterans show!! It is a beautiful CD though it came out in 1991 and I HIGHLY recommend it.

scadalise my name.......2004-10-29

this isn't that good specially after hearing William Warfeild sing it. You can find him at www.wlym.com

Broadway takes on the spiritual ..........2004-01-29

... takes it on and puts it on the canvas by the end of the first round.

I'm going to be the dissenting voice here: thank goodness I signed this disk out of the public library 'cause I'm sure not going to listen to it twice.

There is nothing wrong with the performances. Jessye Norman and Kathleen Battle sing beautifully, and there's no problem with the pick-up orchestra under James Levine.

The problem, and it's huge, is the conception of the show and the musical arrangements. To make the video marketable, I suppose, the producers decided that the concert had to be big: big names, big arrangements, big effects. So we have eighteen spirituals given the musical theatre treatment, with a philharmonic chorus providing chain-gang sound effects, big brass, and big percussion -- including a chinese gong. A chinese gong in a spiritual??? Spare me! Almost every track turns out sounding like either a curtain-raiser or a big, end-of-act production number with cute and predictable modulations between some of the stanzas and the sort of curly-cue orchestral ornamentation typical of Broadway shows.

And you know what? It all kills the spirituals stone dead. The spiritual is one of those musical forms where less is more and very little is best of all. That's how they started, after all. That's how and why they worked for their original audiences, and that's why they were powerful enough to make the transition from folk song to art song. If you want to hear Battle sing spirituals that are irresistible, listen to the set on her Salzburg recital CD, also with Levine (ASIN B00000E31B). There, the music speaks for itself and speaks with a strength and a beauty that the tracks on this disk never approach.

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