A State Of Grace

Editorial Reviews
Album Description
If you haven't yet opened your heart to this great singer, you're in for a real treat. This is Ms. Taylor's 5th CD release and every track is compelling. Joani's exquisite phrasing and interpretations of the music she performs is a complement to any writer. The interplay with the whole ensemble is relaxed, inspiring, and witty at times. The duo number "Seeing For The Very First Time" with piano player arranger Ross Taggart is exceptionally lovely. And on "Detour Ahead" when Joani begins to sing you can feel her heart right there. All and all, this is a great CD for Joani's fans and for anyone who likes intelligent music.

Tracks:

Smiling Face Hiding A Weeping Heart
Close The Door
(What's So Funny 'Bout) Peace, Love and Understanding?
Gasoline Drawers
I Can't Help It If I'm Still In Love With You (with Rosanne Cash)
Bad Moon Rising
Three Gray Walls
If I Had A Boat
Those Memories Of You (with Joan Osborne)
I Want You To Want Me
Ain't It Funny What A Fool Will Do
Standing In The Need Of Love
I've Just Seen The Rock Of Ages (with Levon Helm)
God Will

Amazon.com

Elvis Costello made Nick Lowe's "(What's So Funny 'Bout) Peace, Love, and Understanding?" a hard-put question--the Holmes Brothers transform it into a prayer on their spare, passionate tenth album. The disc earns its title by gently framing a clutch of originals and well-chosen covers within their signature blend of old-time gospel singing and roadhouse blues. And zydeco: they transport CCR's "Bad Moon Rising" from the mythic swamps of California songwriter John Fogerty to the authentic bayous of southern Louisiana with an accordion-led arrangement and two-step rhythm. Although these New York City-based juke joint veterans are an electric band, this time out producer Craig Street has surrounded the velvet and grit of their three-part harmonies with acoustic instruments and relaxed tempos. The uncluttered setting magnifies every nuance of their singing, making many of these performances absolutely angelic. And the simpler the better. Their slow, wistful piano-accompanied version of Cheap Trick's "I Want You to Want Me" aches with desire and sadness. Wendell Holmes and Rosanne Cash bare the wounded soul of Hank Williams's "I Can't Help It If I'm Still in Love with You" as they trade verses over acoustic guitars and mandolins. Joan Osborne and Levon Helm contribute guest vocal on other songs, but it's the Brothers' organic union of the spiritual and the corporeal that makes this album so lovely and so thrilling. --Ted Drozdowski

Album Description

The Holmes Brothers return with State Of Grace, produced by Craig Street (Norah Jones, Chris Whitley, Cassandra Wilson) who also produced Simple Truths. Noted for their ability to transform songs by legendary writers from The Beatles to Tom Waits to Bob Marley, The Holmes Brothers push that tradition even farther on State Of Grace. They expertly reinvent songs by writers as diverse as John Fogerty (Bad Moon Rising), Cheap Trick (I Want You To Want Me), Hank Williams, Sr. (I Can't Help It If I'm Still In Love With You), Nick Lowe (What's So Funny `Bout Peace, Love And Understanding?), George Jones (Ain't It Funny What A Fool Will Do), and Lyle Lovett (God Will, If I Had A Boat), delivering versions that need to be heard to be believed.

For the first time, several of The Holmes Brothers' star friends add talents to the sessions. Levon Helm, drummer/vocalist from The Band, joined by his daughter Amy Helm, makes his first vocal recording since recovering from throat cancer with a heartfelt lead on I've Just Seen The Rock Of Ages. On the Hank Williams classic I Can't Help It If I'm Still In Love With You Wendell trades verses with Rosanne Cash in a mesmerizing performance. And old friend Joan Osborne steps out on a bluesy, storefront church version of Those Memories Of You. The Holmes Brothers interplay of their voices with their guests' is simple, musical magic.

As incredible as they are as interpreters (OffBeat calls them "the best interpretive group working today"), The Holmes Brothers are equally talented songwriters. Exceptional originals Gasoline Drawers, Smiling Face Hiding A Weeping Heart, Close The Door and Standing In The Need Of Love showcase the same true-life stories, depth of feeling, heartbreak and humor found in the timeless songs they choose to cover. With one foot firmly planted in the secular world, The Holmes Brothers layer their songs with rich gospel harmonies and alternately rough-edged and tender vocals, producing what is undoubtedly their richest and most fully realized album.

Customer Reviews:

State of Grace, The Holmes Brothers.......2007-07-02

A great group with loads of talent. The groups spirit and enthusiasm has not diminished with age. The CD contains a very interesting mix of selections.

A very pleasing state it is.......2007-05-14

A very pleasing collection of bluesy folk, soul, americana and country tunes, both upbeat and ballad styles. Fine harmonies and "from the heart" solos by veteran voices which compliment the musical selections. The more you listen the more you are pulled into these tunes. It sounds like the fellas had fun singing and playing. The smiling faces on the CD sleeve belie this feeling. After listening one is certainly happy all over.

gasoline drawers.......2007-04-04

the holmes brothers "state of grace". great! this sets the music world on fire like we all are wearing gasoline drawers!

A must for your collection.......2007-03-08

The more you listen to this CD the more you'll hear. It's great music with fabulous attitude. The lyrics are starting to bubble over into the way I talk. One of my favorite songs has the line: "I can't stand your conversation." I tried this out on my husband the other day. Fortunately we both laughed.

Interpretive? Yes. Gospel? No, Blues, Maybe........2007-02-23

This album didn't reach out and grab me at all. As a big fan of Gospel Blues of every stripe, I picked up this album with anticipation to be greatly disappointed. Half the album is old secular songs done in a different style, some work some don't. The best original track is Gasoline Drawers, the rest are unremarkable. Overall, a rather bland offering.

Average customer rating:

Similar to Mehdi???
The best of Lizbeth Scott and Paul Schwartz
Amazing !!!!
To be treasured
Enhanting and Soul-Calming

State of Grace
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Windham Hill Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

State of Grace II: Turning to Peace
Earthbound
Aria 3: Metamorphosis
State of Grace III
Aria

ASIN: B00004YBZS
Release Date: 2000-10-10

Tracks:

Vent Redemptor Gentium - Lisbeth Scott
Amazing Grace - Lisbeth Scott
Miserere - The Joyful Company Of Singers
Veni Creator Spiritus - Lisbeth Scott/Gavyn Wright
Auguries Of Innocence: Part 1 - Gavyn Wright/David Theodore
Auguries Of Innocence: Part 2 - Gavyn Wright/David Theodore
Be Still My Soul - Lisbeth Scott/Paul Schwartz
Angelica - Lisbeth Scott/Gavyn Wright/Jonathan Williams
Simple Gifts - Lisbeth Scott/Andrew Findon/Dirk Campbell
State Of Grace/Miserere (Remix) - Gavyn Wright/Paul Schwartz

Amazon.com

Producer and composer Paul Schwartz thanks many people on State of Grace, but there is one notable exclusion: the 12th-century nun Hildegard von Bingen. Although these aren't her compositions, echoes of her ecstatic hymns and sequences resound throughout Schwartz's latest electronica-classical opus. He composes his own 21st-century gothic chants, which are sung by the impassioned soprano Lisbeth Scott. Scott is a powerful singer who brings a more emotional, perhaps even lustful, tone to these electro-Gregorian evocations, gliding over synthesizer ministrations and violin from the durable Gavyn Wright. Paul Schwartz was also responsible for the Aria CDs, on which he updated operatic arias with dance beats. State of Grace benefits from the less oppressive rhythmic regimentation, letting these soaring melodies ring out. When Schwartz deviates from his gothic inspirations, State of Grace flags, notably on a predictable rendition of "Amazing Grace," a misguided Celtic take on the Shaker hymn "Simple Gifts," and a trio of instrumentals. --John Diliberto

Customer Reviews:

Similar to Mehdi??? .......2007-06-14

I had to laugh at the tag "similar to Mehdi"...that's like saying the Beach Boys are similar to the Monkees....

For a while this CD never left my rotation, and I play a lot of music. I still get a quick thrill of anticipation when I run across it in my stacks of CDs, and decide to play it again.

This is spiritual music, true, but it is modern vocal/electronica as much as anything. It has a beat, it has soul, it is full-toned and gorgeous. But not too sweet, as the female vocalist puts grit into the tunes. Don't be put off by "Amazing Grace": yes, its that song, but not like you've ever heard it before. The arrangements add a new feel, and counterpoint the melody in an interesting and new way. All the "familiar songs" are like that: e.g. "Gift to be Simple (AKA Lord of the dance, the Shaker song)". The original works are similarly wonderful. You will be amazed.

Paul Schwarz has found a niche that I hope he never leaves. If he can continue to match the quality, beauty, composition and orchestration on this effort, he will become one of my top favorite artists of all time. (Other artists I enjoy: Enigma, Mark O'Conner, David Arkenstone, Acoustic Alchemy, Lesiem, Mars Lasar, Secret Garden, Bela Fleck, Moby, Bill Douglas, Dave Grusin, Fourplay, David Benoit, Angels of Venice, Loreena Mckennit, Andreas Vollenweider to name a very few. Mehdi is OK to go to sleep to.)

The best of Lizbeth Scott and Paul Schwartz.......2007-05-28

I was totally hooked on this style of music after hearing this CD. It is incredibly deep and beautiful and lyrical and just the kind of music that brings ancient language and sounds to the 21st century. I have all of the music that Lizbeth Scott records - she is a very good writer of her own contemporary style of music. The entire State of Grace series is incredible but this one is my absolute favorite. Right behind this is Aria 2.

Amazing !!!!.......2007-05-14

I too checked a copy of this out of my local library! I put it in my car stereo and rocketed down the interstate but soon had to pull over. I was crying uncontrollably! I could not believe how beautiful Lizabeth's voice was!
I took my copy to a friend of mine, who has a B&O system and played the masterpiece for him. He was positively blown away and plays his copy every night.
I just bought a copy of the disc along with the second version, which I am listening to now.

To be treasured.......2007-01-29

I Treasure this cd, Always. Every listening moment from beginning to end is a joyful journey. With each passing year, State of Grace grows more precious and meaningful to me. I always know where this cd is and turn to it whenever I anxious or afraid and it's peaceful, lovely grace never fails to flood through me, revitalizing my soul. State of Grace puts me into a state of pure peace and assuring grace. I hope you purchase and enjoy this cd as much as I do, it's just beautiful.

My favorite song on the cd is "Be Still My Soul."
Be still my soul, the Lord is on thy side/ Stand calm within, the storm of grief and pain/ Trust in thy God to order and provide/ Through every change, His faithful light remains/ Be still my soul, the restful peace within/ Through trying times leads to a joyful end
Be still my soul, the wind and waves sure know/ The voice who ruled them when He dwelt below/ Torment and doubt have slipped into the past/ All darkened mysteries shall shine at last/ His burning sun shall melt the ice of fear/ Lift up your heart, His soothing voice to hear
Be still my soul, when light you cannot see/ And trembling skies speak to the fear in thee/ The face of God illuminates the light/ Amending peace and trust in perfect light/ Be still my soul, when tears fall from above/ You are divine, eternally in love.

Soar!
o8E

Enhanting and Soul-Calming.......2006-02-01

I stumbled upon this CD at my library and was enchanted by the angel on the cover so I checked it out last week. It is an amazing, soothing, calming, meditative, soul-stirring rendition of music. The voices on the songs are lyrical, haunting and mesmerizing.

"Be Still My Soul" is like a musical tranquilizer, a heartfelt, beautiful melody that brings tears to my eyes every time I listen to it. It makes me feel as if I'm safely enfolded in God's wings and listening to His heart beating just for me.

I'm eager to find more music like this. I highly recommend this if you love soothing, uplifting music.

Average customer rating:

Title is what it is.
Another classic
Enchanting, moving, wonderful musical creation.
This guy is good...
soothing

State of Grace III
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Koch Int'l Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

State of Grace II: Turning to Peace
State of Grace
Earthbound
Aria 3: Metamorphosis
Amadas Estrellas

ASIN: B000J10HE4
Release Date: 2006-11-07

Tracks:

Christe Redemptor
Agnus Dei
Beams of Heaven
Center of my Heart
Lux Aeterna
. . .et lux perpetua
To You
Listen
Somnium
Salve Regina
Soledad

Amazon.com

The chant craze has been over for a decade, but Paul Schwartz continues with his State of Grace project, setting Latin texts and hymns to modern settings. On the third album in the series, he leads with his strong suit, the powerful, impassioned voice of Lisbeth Scott. She's been the featured singer with State of Grace since the first album, which no doubt led to her being the voice of John Debney's score to The Passion of the Christ. Over a chugging electronica beat, she intones the Latin hymn "Christe Redemptor" like a plea to a lost lover, recalling her performance on "Veni Redemptor Gentium" from the first CD. Scott shines throughout the album, including on the urgent plea of "To You" and the Abbess Hildegard-like strains of "Somnium." Schwartz has a good ear for the ancient, but perhaps it's beginning to sound antique even to him. That may be why the album sounds like such a hodgepodge of neo-gothic pop-classical romanticism. There are orchestral opuses ("Lux Aeterna") and a piano-violin duet ("Soledad"), gospel hymns ("Beams of Heaven") and pop songs that wouldn't sound out of place on a Celine Dion album ("Center of My Heart"). It tends to undermine his initial concept without providing a breakthrough into something new. --John Diliberto

Customer Reviews:

Title is what it is........2007-05-12

The second track, Agnus Dei. I was listening to Audio Visions on XM Radio when I noticed it. Had to have it. Yes its one of those spiritual things which raise goosebumps. Gently rising to heaven, and yanking out the tears. Thank You Paul.

Another classic.......2007-02-22

Another classic in the series. I look forward to further releases from Schwartz. Test listen the "Earthbound" album, it goes on a different direction than this and the Aria series but it is equally good.

Enchanting, moving, wonderful musical creation........2007-01-30

I just finished up a wonderful interview with Paul regarding State of Grace III and learned quite a bit about him. What I like most about Paul's State of Grace series is the very appealing masterful blend of spiritual classical with a modern touch that keeps you coming back for more. Paul composes professionally and works with such famous people as Josh Groban and Lisbeth Scott. In addition, he works with Broadway and many orchestras and has received standing ovations around the world for his performances. State of Grace III is a definite buy and has been receiving high praises from our radio audience. Get your copy today! Jon

This guy is good..........2007-01-05

To even begin to describe the music on this CD is difficult...it's like trying to describe what God looks like. Not only is the music just incredible, but the two female singers have to be the best two voices on the planet. Luker's Salve Regina had me in tears at the end (and I am getting all misty eyed just thinking about it now). Scott's singing is just remarkable. If Angels sing they sound like these two women. For heaven's sake just buy the CD!!!

soothing.......2007-01-04

I listen to these beautiful songs while I work, and find that I can shut out the world. Soothing and beautiful.

Average customer rating:

Great sequel to 1
Beautiful music.
State of Grace II
State of Grace II not the "bang" that SG I was...
A Pleasant Recording

State of Grace II: Turning to Peace
Paul Schwartz
Manufacturer: Windham Hill Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

State of Grace
State of Grace III
Aria 3: Metamorphosis
Earthbound
Aria, Vol. 2: New Horizon

ASIN: B0000C3GZ0
Release Date: 2003-10-07

Tracks:

Magnificat
Turning To Peace
Curacion (Sunlight On Water) - The Joyful Company Of Singers
Stabat Mater
Quia Respexit
Fear Not - Lisbeth Scott
Et Misericordia - Helen Tunstall
Suscepit Israel
Ave Maria - Lisbeth Scott
Gloria
Let Me - Lisbeth Scott

Album Description

Paul Schwartz is back with a follow-up to the popular series State of Grace, with State of Grace II: Turning To Peace. Having always been drawn to the great Latin texts that have inspired so many great composers before him, State of Grace II: Turning To Peace is based on two Latin texts: the Magnificat and the Stabat Mater.

"The Magnificat is taken directly from the Bible, from the Gospel of Luke: it is the prayer of Mary expressing her joy in the knowledge that she will bear the son of God. The Stabat Mater is a medieval poem that describes the sorrows of Mary as her son's life is taken. I wanted to oppose the two images: the rejoicing expectant mother, and the eventual tragedy that overcomes her. These texts and the other songs on the album form a journey from joy, to sorrow, to joy again." … Paul Schwartz

With Lisbeth Scott once again lending her vocal talents, this is possibly Schwartz' most beautiful release yet!

Customer Reviews:

Great sequel to 1.......2007-02-22

This is a great follow-up to State of Grace 1. The vocals are brilliant. Put this CD on after a day of shopping and errands and relax with a glass of wine, a cup of hot chocolate or your favorite coffee drink. I bought all of Paul Schwartz's productions without hesitation and have not been disappointed yet.

Beautiful music........2007-02-13

I've ordered this for several friends who were dealing with difficult situations in their lives. This beautiful music brings peace to whomever listens to it. One of my favorite CDs.

State of Grace II.......2007-02-07

This is a wonderful collection of music - even better than the first State of Grace CD. Even if you don't know Latin, the melodies of those pieces are very moving, as are the more modern English language songs. I absolutely love it!

State of Grace II not the "bang" that SG I was..........2006-08-05

I was so impressed with the quite forcefulness and spirituality of SG I that I couldnt wait for the 2nd release. After reviewing SG II, I am a bit disappointed personally. I love almost all of Paul Schwartz work, however this one just had the feeling of "trying too hard to be something that it was not." Not nearly as "powerful" without being overbearing as SG I was... but I'll take it for what it is... metaspiritual new-age relaxing music. Until next time I remain...
WCJ

A Pleasant Recording.......2006-07-24

I really wanted Grace I instead of Grace II but I was able to pick this one up at a bargain close out price so I went ahead and aquired it. There are some highlights to this CD that are quite fullfilling but I would still recommend Grace I over this one.

Land of My Fathers: 100 Great Welsh Choir Favourites

Average customer rating:

Land of My Fathers: 100 Great Welsh Choir Favourites

Manufacturer: Castle Pulse
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Favourite Welsh Choirs
Land of Song Welsh Choral Classics
Welsh Choirs: Wonderful Welsh Choirs
Bryn Terfel - We'll Keep a Welcome
Traditional Songs of Wales

ASIN: B0009SOFXG
Release Date: 2005-08-01

Tracks:

Guide Me O Thou Great Redeemer (CWM Rhondda) - Caerphilly Make Voice Choir
Land of My Fathers - Caerphilly Make Voice Choir
Dies Irae
Men of Harlech
You'll Never Walk Alone
Cadwyn O Emyn Donau Cymreig: Joanna (Trad./Elfion Wyn)/Crugybar (Trad.
Old Folks at Home
Il Liza Jane
Faust/Soldier's Chorus - Caerphilly Make Voice Choir
Vergine Degli Angeli
Ballard of Rourke's Drift - Cwt-Y-Collen Choir
My Hero
God Bless the Prince of Wales - Caerphilly Make Voice Choir
German Mass/Gloria
German Mass/Sanctus
Misbles/Master of the House/On My Own/Drink with Me/Empty Chairs at
All Through the Night - Caerphilly Make Voice Choir
Arwelfa
Invictus
Softly as I Leave You

Tracks:

Diolch l'R L
Hine E Hine (Maori Lullaby)
Pererin Wyf (Amazing Grace)
Tribute to the USA: America the Beautiful (Ward/Bates)/God Bless ...
Memories of Martha
I Lombardi/The Crusaders' Chorus - Treorchy Male Choir
Myfanwy - Treorchy Male Choir
Tales of Hoffman/Barcarolle
Creation's Hymn
In the Spirit!
Shall We Gather at the River
Nos a Bore
Very Best Time of Year
Soon Ah Will Be Done
Thanks Be to God
Flower That Shattered the Stone
Rhys - Treorchy Male Choir
Where Shall I Be?
Bywyd y Bugail
Lord's Prayer

Tracks:

Ave Maria
Pearl Fishers/Divine Brahma
She Was Beautiful (Cavatina) - Treorchy Male Choir
Cymru Fach
Nidaros
Jacob's Ladder - Treorchy Male Choir
Watching the Wheat
Pan Ddaw y Saint (When the Saints Go Marching In)
Misbles/Stars
Rachie
Pirates of Penzance/With Cat-Like Tread - Treorchy Male Choir
There Is a Balm in Gilead
Rise Up Shepherd and Foller
My Lord, What a Mornin'
Bryn Myrddin
Jesus Christ Superstar/Medley: Jesus Christ Superstar/Hosanna/The Last
Finnish Forest (Suomen Salossa)
Nabucco/The Glory of Israel
Ride the Chariot
Tydi a Roddaist - Treorchy Male Choir

Tracks:

Y Nefoedd
Phantom of the Opera/Think of Me
Morte Christe (When I Survey the Wondrous Cross)
By Babylon's Wave
I'm Gonna Sing
Where Could I Go But to the Lord?
Holy City - Treorchy Male Choir
Mefistofele: Ave Signor, Degli Angeli
Senzenina (Zulu Chant)
That's All I Want from You
Deep Harmony - Treorchy Male Choir
Give Me Jesus
Just a Closer Walk with Thee
My Wish for You
Jeptha/Waft Her Angels
Mose in Egitto/Prayer
Be Still My Soul (Finlandia Hymn)
God's Choir in the Sky
Floral Dance - Treorchy Male Choir
Smilin' Through

Tracks:

Calon Lan
True Love
Mor Fawr Wyt Ti (How Great Thou Art)
Aberystwyth
Comrades in Arms
Cats/Memory
They Led My Lord Away
State Fair/It's a Grand Night for Singing
When I Fall in Love
Let's Face the Music and Dance
Windmills of Your Mind
How Soon
Non Nobis Domine
Rhythm of Life
Kalinka
Sound an Alarm
Neapolitan Trilogy: It's Now or Never (Di Capua/Schroeder/Gold)/Mo ...
Turandot/Nessun Dorma
Christus Redemptor
Ann Evening's Pastorale

Album Details

Choirs Include the Morriston Orpheus Choir, the Pontadrddulais Male Voice Choir, the Caerphilly Male Voice Choir, the Cwrt-y-gollen Choir, the Treorchy Male Choir and the Lucknow Male Voice Choir.

Average customer rating:

Supreme Salome
The Voice of Richard Strauss' Dreams
Superb
Excellent Remastering
Bohm is peerless!

Strauss: Salome
Leonie Rysanek , Hans Hopf et al. , Karl Boehm , and Wiener Staatsoper
Manufacturer: Bmg Int'l
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Mozart: Cosi Fan Tutte
Richard Strauss: Salome [Remastered]
Mozart: Don Giovanni
Donizetti: Lucia di Lammermoor / Callas, di Stefano, Pnaerai, Zaccaria; Karajan
R. Strauss: Elektra

ASIN: B00002ZZ5G
Release Date: 1999-11-08

Tracks:

Wie Sch Ist Die Prinzessin Salome Heute Nacht!
Ich Will Nicht Bleiben
Wo Ist Er, Dessen Sdebecher Jetzt Voll Ist?
Ich Will Ihn Ner Beseh'n
Niemals, Tochter Babylons, Tochter Sodoms
Wo Ist Salome? Wo Ist Die Prinzessin?
Salome, Komm, Trink Mit Mir
Tanz F Mich, Salome!
Salomes Tanz/Salome's Dance
Ah! Herrlich Wundervoll!
Salome, Bedenk, Was Du Tun Willst
Ah! Du Wolltest Mich Nicht Deinen Mund Ksen Lassen
Ah! Ich Habe Deinen Mund GekT, Jochanaan

Customer Reviews:

Supreme Salome.......2005-10-19

This 1973 recording is blessed with the supreme talents of conductor Karl Bohm and his Vienna forces and the soprano portraying a sensational Salome - Leonie Rysanek. Her performance as Salome prompted Richard Strauss' son to remark that her voice was the voice of her father's dreams. She is quite possibly the greatest Salome of 20th century opera, despite many contenders including Ljuba Wellitsch and Birgit Nilsson. While many adore Wellitsch and Nilsson, I find both singers to miss the point of Salome. Salome, more than sounding like a ditzy teenager who is thoughtless to the point of being a kind of wicked pawn of her equally wicked mother the Queen Herodias, should be potrayed as a sexually mature but disturbed woman. At the heart of Salome is, quite frankly, necrophilia spurred by rejection. Salome is rejected by the God-fearing prophet John the Baptist whom she is attracted to for being an exotic stranger. As he is so devoted to a life of chastity and as he has an enemy in the Queen, he becomes a victim in a kind of game to both women. Herodias has a bone to pick with him. He constantly criticized and condemned her marriage to Herod, who was her first husband's brother. Salome is driven to necrophilia and madness because John the Baptist refuses to even kiss her. Salome, the powerful and beautiful "daughter of sin", princess of a Roman-occupied Jerusalem, has NEVER been rejected. She gets her vengeance and her kiss through the decapitation of the prophet. All this is great drama on film and fine film versions of the opera include those of soprano Catherine Malfitano, Teresa Stratas and Maria Ewing.

On this recording though, Leonie Rysanek uses a variety of colors in her voice and she cuts through the orchestra in thunderous fortissimi. She is a perfect Salome, combining the malice with the girlish naivete. Listen to her chilling Final Scene. This is a classic recording and should be on everyone's list. Yes, Wellitsch and Nilsson are terrific in their versions but Rysanek somehow makes Salome a lot more grand and a lot more deeper in meaning. It's a character study opera. Salome, Jochanan and Herodias are the characters we should look at when listening to this opera in order to understand it. It's still a chilling and electrifying opera if the soprano has the voice to carry it out. Leonie Rysanek is one of the greater singers of her time and she essayed the dramatic roles with aplomb- Medea, Sieglende, Lady Macbeth and various other big roles. While she was very comfortable singing in German or German-sung versions of Italian operas, her voice is still a powerful revelation in music. This record should never go out of print or opera lovers will miss out on a Salome of epic proportions. Bohm knew the score well, and he is still a god among German conductors having held the post of conductor at Bayreuth for years. He "made" the careers of Birgit Nilsson and Leonye Rysanek, virtually and his Vienna/German musicians are a force to be reckoned with.

The Voice of Richard Strauss' Dreams.......2003-09-30

Leonie Rysanek was the dramatic soprano to whom Richard Strauss' son said, "Your voice was the voice that my father dreamed of." Indeed, Rysanek's Salome is simply thrilling. She is vocally at ease in one of the most demanding dramatic soprano roles in the operatic repertoire. She surmounts the relentlessly high tessitura of the role with consummate ease. Rysanek was famous for her top register - powerful and taking more sheen the higher she goes. Here, preserved in superb stereo sound, was her performance at the Vienna Stata opera in 1972. You must listen to the voice that Richard Strauss dreamt of. It is an utterly beguiling performance.

Superb.......2003-08-20

This RCA version is the 1972 Klimt-inspired staging that was lauded to the skies when it was produced. Listening to it, I can understand why. The whole cast is inspired. Bohm is inspired in his conducting. Leonie Rysanek is super as Salome. All the rest of the cast is superb - from Hopf's Herod, Grace Hoffman's Herodias to Wachter's Jochanaan. If you want only one version of Salome, this version will work. The recording is live but in excellent stereo. However, there is an even more expensive set under Golden Melodram, which I think is worth the extra dollars. My review of that set is below and I give my reasons why the other set is worthwhile acquiring.We are fortunate to have two preservations of Leonie Rysanek's Salome (and one preservation of Jon Vicker's Herod). I have both and I am so much richer for that.

The following is my review for Salome conducted by Kempe under Golden Melodram:

This is a miraculous performance of Salome. Leonie Rysanek is simply superb in the name-part. Her big dramatic voice rich and ringing out thrillingly and gloriously at the climaxes. She stands alongside legends Ljuba Welitsch and Birgit Nilsson as the top interpreters of this role. The good thing is that this recording is in outstanding stereo. Everything is clear and you can hear the singers acting naturally and moving around on the stage in a 'live' performance. Leonie Rysanek is also outstanding as Salome in the RCA version under Karl Bohm at the Vienna State opera. That was one of the first few times she performed the part and it is a fabulous and famous performance, lauded to the skies. Here, she is even more experienced and even more dramatic. The RCA version is cheaper than this Melodram and also in excellent stereo. I don't advise buying budget label versions which have bad sound - go for the RCA which is more expensive but has significantly better sound.

However, aside from Leonie Rysanek, the biggest and most urgent reason for acquiring this set is Jon Vicker's stunning Herod, one that almost upstages his Salome, or did he upstage his Salome? You could almost call this opera Herod. He is the best Herod I've ever heard. Every time he enters, it is as if a force of nature, a titanic hurricane, has swept across the stage right in front of your eyes. His enormous dramatic voice hits you like steel rod and you find yourself utterly stunned into submission by the sheer dramatic force that he unleashes upon you. Herod was a role Vickers seldom essayed (his biography only lists one performance of this role) so this recording is an all-important document preserving his incredible Herod, which is like Hercules. Leonie Rysanek as Salome and Ruth Hesse as Herodias seem to have been inspired by his electrifying portrayal of Herod. Fortunately for us, both of them are in exceptionally good voice. Ruth Hesse is highly dramatic as Herodias. Leonie Rysanek, as I mentioned earlier, also seem to have pulled out all stops in her portrayal of Salome, her intense and spine-chilling voice gripping you by the throat in high drama. She lets out a blood-curdling cry before 'Ah! Du wolltest mich nicht...', and when she sings those lines, your hair stands up in unmitigated horror. By the end of the her final scene, you're completely petrified by her dramatic necrophillic outbursts, her enormous and intense voice like waves and waves of tsunami hitting you relentlessly. This version is more expensive than the RCA version but this version has Jon Vickers, and an even more dramatic Leonie Rysanek and the extra dollars are worth it!! By the end, the performers have the audience clapping cherring in wild ecstasy.

I also very highly recommend Birgit Nilsson's Decca set and her Bueno Aires set, and also Ljuba Welitsch's reading with Fritz Reiner or with Karajan. If you love Jon Vickers, get this set. If you love Rysanek, get this set (or alternatively the RCA but that doesn't have Vickers). If you love Salome, get this set (or alternatively Birgit Nilsson's with Solti under Decca). This is Rysanek's Salome and Vicker's Herod. The incentuous Volsung twins from Wagner's Ring incarnate as the incentuous Herod and psychologically perverted Salome. No partnership could be more thrilling in Salome - except perhaps Vickers and Nilsson.

Excellent Remastering.......2003-07-29

The 3 sopranos with the biggest voices who have tackled Salome are Ljuba Welitsch, Birgit Nilsson and Leonie Rysanek. If you like your Salome with a loud and thrilling voice that will blow all the lamps and glasses in your house, there is no substitute for Welitsch, Nilsson or Rysanek. Welitsch interpretation is considered the definitive interpretation because she sounded almost like 16 years old and she was personally supervised by Richard Strauss himself. Birgit Nilsson's interpretation is a "hard" interpretation - her voice is like metal - with the wickedness and depravity of Salomme brought out vividly. Leonie Rysanek, with her "soft" voice, but thrillingly huge volume, joins the ranks of Welitsch and Nilsson as a top rank interpretator of Salome, with a voice that can cut through the most raucous and loud Straussian orchestra. Some people may prefer Cheryl Studer, Behrens or Caballe as Salome but no matter how good their interpretation, they cannot match Birgit Nilsson or Leonie Rysanek for the sheer thrill of the human voice. As I mentioned at the start, this is a Salome for those who like the aural thrill of hearing a human voice soaring above the orchestra - and this is "live"!!!

Coming to this set, the remastering is excellent. This is actually the second version of this performance that I bought. Opera D'Oro has also released the same performance at a lower price but that version is noisy and the noise interferes with the enjoyment of this performance. I bought this set with some trepidation because I was afraid that I would get the same sound. To my pleasure, I found out that this set has better sound than the Opera D'Oro version. Here Leonie Rysanek's thrillingly huge soprano voice comes through loud and clear with no "haze" to speak of. Kudos to the remastering engineers. This is a STEREO set although not top notch Decca Standard stereo but still, it's far better than the mono sound in many historical recording.

Advice: This set is more expensive. However, BUY THIS!! You derive more enjoyment from listening to this set (for a few dollars more) than the Opera D'Oro version.

It is especially interesting to compare Leonie Rysanek's Salome to Birgit Nilsson's Salome. Two huge voices - but their timbres are very different. I would hate to be without either.

Bohm is peerless!.......2002-07-07

Bohm is the real star of this recording (which is from a clear sounding stereo tape of a notable 1972 production). He combines dramatic weight and urgency with elegance and nuance of phrasing, and elicits an orchestral sound which is both sensuous and transparent in texture. Solti to me sounds distinctly foursquare and heavy-handed by comparison (although a remastering using current oversampling and noise reduction techniques would probably help ameliorate those limitations).
Moreover, I find Rysanek's interpretation very effective in conveying Salome's imperious willfullness and monomaniacal obsession (even though, admittedly, others have sung the role more flawlessly in strictly vocal terms), and Waechter's Jochanaan sings with real conviction. My only complaint musically is that the Herod sounds undercharacterized compared to Stoltz on the Solti recording; however, this is true for all others that I have heard in this role. It is regrettable that RCA did not see fit to include a libretto, but the virtues of this recording make scrounging around for one a worthwhile endeavor...

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Why not the fame he deserves!
More Great Music From Pierce Pettis
Another MUST-HAVE CD for your collection !
Dispensation of Grace
SOUTHERN ROOTS EXPOSED

State of Grace
Pierce Pettis
Manufacturer: Compass Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B00005LN2B
Release Date: 2001-07-10

Tracks:

Rise From The Ruins
State Of Grace
Long Way Back Home
Georgia Moon
A Mountaineer Is Always Free
Moontown
We Will Meet Again
Nothing But The Truth
Crying Ground
All In Good Time
Little River Canyon
Down In The Flood
I've Got A Hope

Amazon.com

Neo-folkie Pierce Pettis can always be counted on for poetic songs of beauty and passion that arrive at a listener's head and heart at precisely the same time. On State of Grace his low-key compositions, delivered with an easy gait, illuminate the many facets of the Southern experience. All of his references to genteel manners and verandas and Confederate statues might seem like glossy picture post cards, except that Pettis, an Alabaman, also finds the unique truths of a geographic region that's lost much of its identity with the Wal-Mart homogenization of America. Most of his songs, whether steeped in the folk tradition or flirting with blues or rock, carry an undertow of spirituality that promises something more than man's troubles on this earth, and in these endeavors, especially "I've Got a Hope," Pettis manages to bypass cloying sentiment in conjuring something real. As the singer-songwriter puts it, this is an album "peppered with hope." Well said, and well done, too. And yes, with grace. --Alanna Nash

Customer Reviews:

Why not the fame he deserves!.......2001-12-10

I fortunately found Pierce on a Windham Hill sampler years ago.
Also was fortunate to purchase all of his recordings with the now defunct Windham. I am convinced no other artist has the desire and compassion and natural talent for music. Now we can't buy these songs.

I recently saw a solo concert in Indiana and it confirmed this belief. His wife Michele and Pierce travel to small venues ( 100 people ) in their minvan with their dogs and instuments. At a $10 admission charge I am amazed at this compassion--it shows in his songs. He even let me play his guitars!

Though I'm sorry about a 4( there isn't a half star ) rating--it's because I'm comparing it to the beautiful Making Light of It and Chase the Buffalo-Thanks Pierce and Michele-if you ever go to Lvd's Farm in Middlebury, IN- again--I'll be in the first row--Tom Lewis--

More Great Music From Pierce Pettis.......2001-10-27

This is great stuff. Some of Pierce's songs grab you right away. Even better, many of them slowly grow on you. My only qualifier is don't let the quality of this CD stop you from getting his 2 previous efforts. He has it all: great voice, outstanding guitar skills, great melodies and wonderful lyrics. His music will move you and amuse you. I saw him do most of these songs live recently, and he blew everyone away. If you're new to Pierce, you're in for a treat.

Another MUST-HAVE CD for your collection !.......2001-10-13

Pierce Pettis has never disappointed me, and he isn't about to start now. This album tends to be more roots-orieted than some of his earlier work. With some artists that would be bad news, but not for Pierce. From the amazingly crafted title track to the unbridled joy of "A Mountaineer Is Always Free" you will be amazed by the subtle production, the deft writing and the skillful guitar work. If you have the chance to see Pierce live, DO IT! What he is able to create musically on stage will astound you. Let's hope there will be a live album someday soon.
One last note on this album: "Little River Canyon" may just be the best song I'll play on my radio show this year. GET THIS ALBUM NOW! Even better: give this as a present to every friend or family member who appreciates true music. Trust me, they'll be grateful and you'll look like a genius to them!

Dispensation of Grace.......2001-07-29

First of all I'd like to apologize for giving this CD 5 stars, but that's all they'll let you give. "State of Grace" by Pierce Pettis is one of the most well-crafted, seamless collections of songs that I have ever heard on CD. The themes of memory, grace, southern culture and faith are intertwined on this CD in a way that reflects the experiences shared by so many who have grown up (like Pierce) in that part of the country. But don't shy away from this album if you don't happen come from the South . . . there is much to be cherished on this CD for any listener. I find that Pierce Pettis writes and performs from a place that feels very familiar. Indeed, you won't have to listen to his music very long before he seems like an old friend. You hear echos of Americana in the melodies, reminiscent of tunes from Steven Foster to "Dixie". His lyrics evoke in me thoughts and feelings from my idealistic youth that I was surprised could be brought again to the surface. His is a kindred voice and spirit that helps me believe that there truly can be something real to faith. For example, in the beautiful "Moontown" he sings of a small town where "Heaven is a place that everybody here believes in". Or from "A Mountaineer is Always Free" a place where there's "No one but God here to fear or to look down on me". And all of the performances are top notch. As anyone who has seen him in concert or heard any of his CD's can tell you, Pierce is an incredible musician. Just listen to the harmonica part in "Georgia Moon", as he glides up to a high note that is as graceful and fragile as the memory of a flower petal on a breeze. And by the way, if you like his cover of the Mark Heard tune "Rise From the Ruins", I highly recommend that you check out other songs from Mark Heard, a brilliant writer and performer himself.

I could talk about Pierce Pettis, his music, this CD for hours. In short, I'd just say buy this record. Sit down when you have 45 uninterrupted minutes and be carried away to a place that feels so very familiar, so close to home . . . do you remember how the word "home" used to make you feel? Maybe, if you find yourself in a State of Grace, it still can.

SOUTHERN ROOTS EXPOSED.......2001-07-14

I HAVE EAGERLY AWAITED THE RELEASE OF THIS CD AFTER SEEING PIERCE PERFORM THESE SONGS LIVE OVER THE PAST COUPLE OF YEARS.I WAS NOT DISAPPOINTED.THIS CD IS THE CLOSEST THING I HAVE EVER SEEN TO A STUDIO ALBUM THAT SOUNDS LIKE A LIVE PERFORMANCE. THERE IS EVERYTHING ON HERE BUT THE ANNOYING APPLAUSE. PIERCE PERFORMS THESE SONGS WITH SUCH ENERGY AND PASSION THAT YOU CAN'T HELP BUT MARVEL AT HIS AMAZING TALENT.THESE SONGS FLOW TOGETHER LIKE A PATCHWORK QUILT. HIS OBSERVATIONS OF SOUTHERN LIFE AND IDIOMS ARE TRULY INSPIRING. THERE IS NO MANUFACTURED MUSIC ON THIS CD, NO SYNTHESIZERS OR ORCHESTRAL STRINGS. THIS IS ALL AUTHENTIC INSTRUMENTATION.

IN THESE SONGS,PIERCE EVOKES THE POIGNANCY, SPIRITUALITY AND MEMORY OF HIS ROOTS THAT IS ENTIRELY ENGAGING. IN THE TITLE TRACK "STATE OF GRACE", PIERCE EXPRESSES THE HOMEGROWN, DOWN TO EARTH GENTILITY OF LIFE IN HIS HOME STATE OF ALABAMA. "GEORGIA MOON" IS A BEAUTIFUL BALLAD ABOUT A FIRST LOVE THAT STILL BRINGS MEMORIES OF PAIN AND BEAUTY YEARS BEYOND THE ORIGIN. "MOUNTAINEERS ARE ALWAYS FREE" IS AN ANTHEM TO FREEDOM AND DIGNITY FOR ANYONE WHO HAS EVER EXPERIENCED OPPRESSION. "MOONTOWN" IS A WONDERFUL BALLAD OF THE JOYS OF LIVING IN A SMALL TOWN IN THE SOUTH. "LITTLE RIVER CANYON" IS A SNAPSHOT OF ADOLESCENT LIFE REMEMBERED WITH TENDERNESS AT MIDLIFE AND DESCRIBED ON A CANVAS OF NATURE'S WONDERS. PIERCE'S INTERPRETATION OF BOB DYLANS " DOWN IN THE FLOOD" IS ELECTRIFYING, WITH THE GUITAR PROGRESSIONS,BLUESY VOCALS AND A RAGING HARMONICA. FINALLY, "WE WILL MEET AGAIN" AND "I'VE GOT A HOPE" SPEAK OF PIERCE'S DEEP SPIRITUALITY AND EXPECTATION OF A BETTER PLACE BEYOND THIS WORLD. WHETHER HE IS PERFORMING A LOVELY BALLAD, OR A ROUSING ROCKER, PIERCE SINGS AND PLAYS WITH EMOTION AND DEPTH. THIS IS A NEARLY PERFECT CD. THE SONGS CUT ACROSS VARIOUS GENRES FROM FOLK, TO BLUES, TO ROCK AND BLUEGRASS. THE END RESULT IS A MATURE AND THOUGHTFUL COLLECTION OF SONGS THAT WILL TOUCH YOUR HEART!

State of Grace
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Track Listing !

State of Grace
Ennio Morricone
Manufacturer: Mca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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