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(More customer reviews)If you like Celtic music, you will love this. These songs are beautiful. It has great vocals. I would recommend it to anyone.
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Showing posts with label celtic. Show all posts
Showing posts with label celtic. Show all posts
Celtic Ladies (Dig) Review
Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)If you like Celtic music, you will love this. These songs are beautiful. It has great vocals. I would recommend it to anyone.
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Tous les matins du monde / Jordi Savall (1991 film) Review
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(More customer reviews)Once there was a website titled: "Jordi Savall is God!". The site has disappeared, but it's hard not to have sympathy with that viewpoint. Introduced to Savall through this CD, it made me an immediate fan. A strained budget fails to cease the slow but steady accumulation of his music. Still, it is this CD which is brought off the shelf most often, to be enjoyed without reservation.
There has been more than a little grizzling among viola da gamba buffs over Jordi's role in arranging the music for this film. Most of it seems to be pure envy at Savall's scholarship and performing abilities. If nothing else, owning this CD will lead you to a world of beautiful music. That world might even prompt you to listen to others performing the same pieces, each presenting it in their own way.
For those who know the story, the film and the music pivot around the life of Monsieur de Sainte Colombe. A figure of historical mystery, still unidentified, what is known of his life comes from a journal kept by Marais. Grieving for his lost wife, he retired to a hut at the bottom of his garden. Rumour had it he was visited by his wife's ghost, who critiqued his compositions. Sainte Colombe added a new string to the viola, drastically changing the character of the instrument, extending its range and depth. Sainte Colombe was a master composer for the instrument. And Jordi Savall unmatched in his performance of the music.
Savall, of course, has virtually resurrected Monsieur Sainte Colombe's music from the obscurity of the specialist's interest. Now, his melodious renditions are to be found in any classical store shelf. Savall's interpretations, however, remain the pinnacle all other performers aspire to match. This CD has set a standard for 17th Century music renditions. If you are the least interested in the period, the music and/or the range of qualities Sainte Colombe introduced when he added that seventh string to the instrument, this CD is a mandatory beginning. Just be aware that while Jordi Savall may not be [g]od, his music is divine. It will take you to a blissful paradise of sound that you can enjoy again and again. You will never regret buying this disk.
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Celtic Woman - The Greatest Journey: Essential Collection (2008) Review
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(More customer reviews)Yes, it is basically just clips from the other Celtic Woman DVDs, BUT the documentary ALONE is worth buying.
If you are a big Celtic Woman fan you will really want this. The hour long "The Story So Far" Documentary is fantastic, and a great behind-the-scenes look at how Celtic Woman all came about, and the girls' thoughts about it so far. Great interviews with all of the girls, and a great view of how they interact with each other. I really loved this documentary, and to me, it is what makes this DVD worth the cost. Plus, this is a great DVD if you are looking to share the magic of Celtic Woman with someone else who is not familiar with them. It really goes through all the great hits and well-loved songs. They've added in some beautiful shots of Ireland in between the songs and they do compliment the music so well!
As for new stuff, CW will be filming a new DVD this summer, so be on the look out for that.
Long live Celtic Woman, and bring on the Spring 2009 tour!!!!!
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Companion DVD to Celtic Woman, The Greatest Journey: Essential Collection (CD) includes a very special intimate behind-the-scenes documentary.
The Massed Bands, Pipes & Drums of Her Majesty's Royal Marines and The Black Watch Review
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(More customer reviews)This is the tour recording originally issued in 1976 to mark the US tour of the band of Her Majesty's Royal Marines (Commandos) and the regimental band, pipes and drums of the 1st battalion the Black Watch (Royal Highland Regiment) The recording reflects the music of the tour which was Britain's bicenntennial salute to the United States. Many of the tunes are popular selections long associated with the United States.
The recording starts with a rousing version of the "Stars and Stripes" by the massed bands of the Royal Marines and Black Watch. The combined resources of these bands are impressively shown here. The Royal Marines then follow with a Guibert and Sullivan medly, comprising well known selections from the operettas of the immortal composing pair. The Regimental band, accompanied by the pipes and drums of the Black Watch enter with the old scots air "Morag of Dunnvegan", which is followed by a bicenntennial "drummers' salute" by the drummers of the pipe band. The pipes and drums then perfom the first of two medlys on this recording. Many of the tunes performed in this selection are regimental tunes used by the different companies of the Black Watch at that time. The Black Watch pipes and drums are crisp in their performance, but one can hear that the band has come a long way sense 1976. The massed bands return with a moving rendition of Dvorak's "Going Home" movement from his New World symphony. The regimental band of the Black Watch give a stiring rendition of the classic Vienese "Radetsky March". Under the direction of Norman Rogerson the band was one of the best known regimental bands in the British army. Sadly, they are no more after the recent reductions in British army bands. This is followed by "Sunset", the evening retreat call of the British army which is accompanied by the massed bands. Pipe Major Allan Dippie of the Black Watch performs a moving solo of "Sleep Dearie Sleep". This was the tune played by six Black Watch pipers by special request at the burial of John F. Kennedy in 1963. This special occasion has made the Black watch a very popular item in the States since that time. A medly of Irving Berlin tunes follows by the massed bands. This is in keeping with the bicenntenial nature of the recording.
The regimental band of the Black Watch provide a wonderful version of the "River Kwai" march, made famous by the film many years before. This march is actually adopted from the British march king, Kenneth J. Alford's classic "Colonel Bogey" march of 1916. The regimental band continues with "All The Blue Bonnet's O'er the Border" the traditional quick march of the Black Watch. The band of the Royal Marines returns again with a typically bombastic French march, "Sambre et Muese" which features the bugles of the Royal Marines. There are few marches more French in origin than this one, it might actually be considered the "Star's and Stripes" of France. The Pipes and Drums of the Black Watch return with a stirring medly of scots tunes frequently played by the band at that time. The Royal marines return with their regimental quick march "A Life on the Ocean Wave", a tune that was written in New York during the last century and adopted by the Royal Marines some years later. The massed military bands combine for a World War One medly featuring many well known selections. The Royal Marines provide their last selection with the atmoshereic "Edinburgh Castle" which features their famous corps of drums. The recording concludes with a Brittanic salute by the massed bands including "Rule Brittania" and "Land of Hope and Glory"
This is a most enjoyable recording which the average listener should find appealing because of the many popular selections included therein. There are few more patriotic recordings out there like this one, and its bicenntenial siginificance makes it even more appealing. The performances are first-rate and the recording quality for 1976 is excellent. This is a timeless recording which Amricans should treasure, a fitting Bicenntenial salute from our oldest ally.
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Distant Bell Review
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(More customer reviews)The tracklisting is
1. Gently Johnny
2. So Uncool
3. Innocence Sleeping
4. Banks of the Nile
5. Simple Lyric
6. No More Words
7. Too Late
8. The Trees They Do Grow High
9. Greenwood Laddie
10. Timeless
11. Handful of Ashes
12. Farewell to Music (w. Paddy Moloney of The Chieftains)
13. Gently Johnny (Extended Version)
"A Distant Bell" is Caroline Lavelle's third solo album. She has collaborated with many artists ranging from BT ("The Great Escape"), Chicane ("Lost You Somewhere") and Massive Attack ("Home of The Whale") to Vangelis ("Come To Me"), Hector Zazou ("The Freeze, "Lies Will Flow") and the violinist Nigel Kennedy ("Breathing Stone"). She has also contributed to Muse's "Origin of Symmetry", Radiohead's "The Bends", Loreena McKennitt's "Book of Secrets" and the legendary Irish band Chieftains, attending live tours of these artists with her cello and backing vocals.
A versatile sought-after vocalist and cellist by artists of classic, new age, electronic, chamber folk genres, Caroline Lavelle established alongside her collaborations a parallel solo career that has been one of profound experimentation. Merging traditional Irish tunes with electronic blends (on debut "Spirit", produced by William Orbit), she released an album which surpasses all the likes of Enya. Her second album, "Brilliant Midnight" is a brilliant showcase of her own song-writing and producing skills as well as the depths of her personality.
"A Distant Bell", her third solo effort intermingles, again, the traditional British-Irish tunes with that very creative and sensual attitute towards song-wirting and performing that she exhibited in her previous records. All the songs are crafted with a careful sense of perfection alongside many moments of inspirational spontaneity.
To the changes undergone, "A Distant Bell" has a minimum electronics and maximum of acoustics. The majority of the songs are performed with strings, haunting guitars, pianos and Lavelle's wonderful voice. The result is a unique and fresh interpretation of evergreen traditionality. Her distinctive voice accompany the album's emotive melodies so smoothly as to put you into a state of insurmountable captivation of music.
The haunting emotional essence of the record is further reinforced with her well-crafted self-written songs like gentle "So Uncool", the catchy Irish gem "No More Words", "Too Late" and the glorious climax "Timeless", which goes
"But old love grows so long / that the part above the ground has less effect / and time can wither tender shoots / but leaves those roots secure and strong / But the best love has no time / no forwards, backwards but only now / It's strong arms hold you when you walk and / if you fall you're always caught"... This is exquisite poetry clothed with music, at its best! A perfect 50 min. for forgetting the day and embarking on an acoustic chamber folk journey!
Also don't forget visit Caroline's website carolinelavelle.com where you can stream all the the songs on the album plus discover background of her previous albums, her own record label and some B-sides!
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The Hard & The Easy Review
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(More customer reviews)For a longtime fan, The Hard and the Easy is quite a memorable feat. On the one hand, you could say Great Big Sea is playing to their strengths with an all-traditional album. But on the other hand, many of the songs here do not resemble anything they've ever done, even on traditional-heavy discs like the seminal UP or their eponymous debut.
Although they've always leaned heavily (and successfully) on folk sounds, The Hard and the Easy breaks new ground for the band by being their first entirely acoustic album. The songs are lean, quick and at times vaguely familiar. The informative liner notes give the history of each tune. . .a welcome education for us faraway fans who may never set foot on the isle of Newfoundland.
It's nice to see Bob Hallet getting a couple of tunes, and Sean McCann continues to improve at balladry, something he sometimes faltered at on Something Beautiful. His rendering of Graceful & Charming ranks with the band's best love songs.
But for the most part, The Hard and the Easy is about having fun. The expected seafaring tales are there, but there is also further exploration of Newfoundland history in songs like Concerning Charlie Horse and darkly funny Cod Liver Oil. The Mermaid is guaranteed to put a smile on your face; Captain Kidd, Old Polina and the bittersweet Harbour Lecou are destined to be classics.
I confess, I like GBS's original songs every bit as much as the traditional stuff. And UP is still the standard for providing a mix of the old and the new. Which is why I've given this release 4 instead of 5 stars. For other longtime fans, especially those who felt letdown by the more pop-oriented Something Beautiful, this album will be a 5-star one.
And by the way, if you're new to Great Big Sea, this is a fine introduction. . .but there are MANY more joys to be found in their catalog. I'd recommend you get 'em all.
One last note: The DVD included in this release is a nice bonus, mostly footage of the 3 guys playing and talking about their love of their homeland's culture. Best part: Singer Alan Doyle points out that The Hard and the Easy is perhaps the only album in history to include not one, but TWO songs about a horse falling through the ice! It's ultimately nothing groundbreaking, but fans will certainly appreciate it.
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Includes bonus DVD -- an exclusive concert and conversation with the band!The Hard and The Easy is the ninth album from Great Big Sea, the Juno-nominated band that fuses Newfoundland traditional music with modern pop in a crowd-pleasing formula both heartfelt and vital. A pure force of nature - much like the ocean surge they take their name from - Great Big Sea's blend of instruments such as guitar, mandolin, bodhran, fiddle, and concertina, along with their vocal harmonies, revels in the melodies they create and the Newfoundland tunes they love. Their sound bellows joy. After almost thirteen years together, Great Big Sea is releasing a new kind of album, one that spans the spectrum of the Newfoundland songbook. This all-acoustic album of traditional and local songs is a first for singers and multi-instrumentalists Sean McCann, Alan Doyle, and Bob Hallett, but it's also a logical progression. Newfoundland music and Newfoundland culture are both their genesis and their raison d'etre.
Spirit Of The Glen Review
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(More customer reviews)The Royal Scots Dragoon Guards was formed in 1971, by the amalgamation of two earlier regiments (the Prince of Wales's Dragoon Guards and The Royal Scots Greys). They are a crack armored regiment, equipped with Challenger 2 tanks, which saw action in the 1991 Gulf War, Bosnia, Kosovo, and the recent invasion of Iraq. All this is to say that this is a real regiment of real soldiers. But, they are also real musicians.
This album is not just a collection of bagpipe tunes, but is instead a wonderful selection of wonderful, modern Scottish musical pieces. All of the tunes include bagpipes, which is considered by many to be THE Scottish musical instrument, but they are backed up by a many other instruments, including the keyboard and guitar.
Overall, I found the effect to be excellent, reminiscent of the more modern Scottish music I have heard at Scottish music festival. It has a more rounded sound that your older pipe-and-drum music, one that is sure to please anyone that likes ethnic music. I must say that I liked the selection of older and newer tunes, including Mull of Kintyre and Dances With Wolves.
I think that this is a great album, and I don't hesitate to recommend it to everyone!
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The Royal Scots Dragoon Guards is Scotland's senior regiment and her only regular cavalry.The band members, as well as being trained musicians, are all Army soldiers who crew tanks and have served two tours of duty in Iraq. The album, both Scots and classical tunes, is a tribute to the dedication and talent of this group of military pipers.While they are first and foremost soldiers, the music on Spirit of the Glen is a heart-warming and beautiful demonstration of the incredibly powerful and emotive sound of bagpipe music. Some album highlights: the McCartney popularized #1 single, Mull of Kintyre, Amazing Grace 2007, a reworking of Rod Stewarts `Sailing,' and film themes Dances with Wolves & The Last of the Mohicans.
An Ancient Muse Review
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(More customer reviews)AN ANCIENT MUSE. Just the title seems to suggest songs celebrating the past. Fans have waited a decade for this album, myself included. Many reviewers will tell you it falls short of expectations or explores no new territory.....in some ways I find I have to agree...
The album opens with the sun illuminating ancient landscapes in "Invocation" an instrumental chant both haunting and beautiful. We walk through "The Gates of Istanbul" starting our journey thru the ruins of the Ottoman Empire and the splendor of modern Turkey. The song is steady and rhythmic and Loreena's voice has the same banshee/angel quality it always had...no disappointment here.
The night finds weary journeymen who have camped for the night at a "Caravanserai"...an inn for the caravans of Asia. She weaves a story of the many adventures and scenery she has seen before stopping to rest...on a journey home. Easily her best song....great live performance can be seen at her website.
Next a tale of Scotland's woe...words by Sir Walter Scott set to an arrangement of music by Loreena...as she sings of the tragic love between "The English Ladye and the Knight". This kind of poetic adaption has been done before by McKennitt...."Snow", "Dark Night of the Soul" and "The Highwayman" to name a few examples. Her voice is strong and emotionally charged.....the most beautiful song on the album.
From here on out....the rest of the album delivers some fine songs. However, they are not as striking as the first four. Disappointed? I'm not...these songs will grow on me...I didn't wait 10 years just to tear apart her new album!! So for now, I can say it is worth buying.
If you like stories of history, tragic love affairs, and poetry...listen to Loreena McKennitt's AN ANCIENT MUSE.
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An Ancient Muse is "eclectic celtic" - singer/composer Loreena McKennitt's highly-anticipated first new studio recording in nine years. Taking up where her previous work left off, McKennitt fuses the melodic sensibility of Celtic Balladry with musical traditions from Greece, Turkey, Spain, and beyond. Once heard, never forgotten, Loreena MacKennitt leads the listener on a timeless journey from the Scottish borders to the caravanserais of the Silk Road to the wine-dark seas of Homer's Odyssey. McKennitt's worldwide multi-platinum sales culminated in her most recent album, 1997's The Book of Secrets, which reached #17 on the Billboard Top 200 Chart.--This text refers to an alternate Audio CD edition.
The Book of Secrets Review
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(More customer reviews)Loreena McKennitt is a singer songwriter who defies generalizations. While primarily in the Celtic tradition, she is always pushing the borders. Sometimes traditional and sometimes completely inventive she is capable of perpetual surprises.
"The Book of Secrets" is a musical journey through the relatives and contemporaries of the Celtic tradition. She mixes themes from Europe and Near East with the rhythmic and instrumental approaches of the Celtic world. The effect is hypnotic. The eerie and contemplative 'Prologue' shifts to the strong melodic work of 'The Mummers' Dance' recalling ancient spring rituals of rebirth. 'Skellig' has an almost Renaissance flavor as it voices the contemplative farewell song of an Italian monk.
'Marco Polo' echoes Oriental touches with Sufi melodies, capturing the ecstatic nature of that tradition perfectly. The, in an almost magical transition McKennitt switches to one of my favorites, 'The Highwayman.' This is a resetting of an Alfred Noyes poem, a dramatic stories of sacrifice and vengeance over melodic fiddle work and dancing drums. 'La Serenissima' is a return to the medieval contemplative, playing harp and fiddle against each other.
'Night Ride Across the Caucasus' uses Asiatic styling over the pulsing beat of horses in motion to recall the spiritual journey of the alchemist and the quest of the mystic. 'Dante's Prayer,' the final song of the album, is another personal favorite. Occasioned by a trip across the Russian Steppes it opens with an echo of Russian Orthodox melody and then shifts to a melodic, contemporary sound as McKennitt voice sings a beautiful plaint that echoes the love songs of Sufi poetry, whose object is the Beloved, the divine. "Cast your eyes on the ocean, Cast your soul to the sea," she sings, "When the dark night seems endless, Please remember me."
Recording quality is immaculate, with a fine atmospheric aura. McKennit's voice is soft and full, possibly the best I've ever hear hit. Her skill as a lyricist is every bit as good as her musical talents. This is an extraordinary album which will provide countless hours of pleasure and thought. Enjoy.
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BONUS DVD (PAL)--This text refers to an alternate Audio CD edition.
Reasons Why: The Very Best (CD + DVD) Review
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(More customer reviews)When Nickel Creek announced their separation in August 2006, many fans were in agony. This collection clearly demonstrates why. Their music is wholly original and unique, based on bluegrass/new acoustic instrumentation with rock and jazz influences and technical virtuosity, a combination not found in any other current band. This collection displays all their strengths in a single disc format, concluding with a phenomenal demonstration of their musical abilities in a live setting.
I have never seen a greatest hits collection that fans believe wholly captures their favorite band's abilities, and the same can obviously be said about "Reasons Why." Despite this, the collection gathers both "greatest hits" and songs that give an overview of their abilities. Interestingly, the track listing is not sequential, likely to provide shifts in moods and feels; selections from the first CD are more gentle while those from their most recent one are heavier, so placing them out of order gives the sound more variety. However, it also takes away from the obvious growth of the band in the 5 years between "Nickel Creek" and "Why Should the Fire Die?" Imagine a Beatles greatest hits that juxtaposes "All My Loving" with "Strawberry Fields" before returning to "A Hard Day's Night." It's harder to see the musical progression of the band and appreciate how far they came in a short time.
What this collection offers is the gorgeous harmonies of "Out of the Woods," the instrumental excellence of "Smoothie Song," the pop accesibility of "This Side," the loveliness of "When You Come Back Down," and the songwriting sophistication of "helena." All fans will be upset by what was left off (I'll argue for the inclusion of 'ode to a Butterfly," the outstanding instrumental that introduced the band on their first wide-release CD), but will have trouble arguing that this is a great overview, particularly for a band with only three common releases (their first CD is more of a children's recording of cowboy songs, while their next CD is out of print and not currently available).
For those who have all their recordings, this collection offers not only all their videos--a nice addition for us obsessive collectors--but two outstanding live tracks. The first, "You Don't Have to Move that Mountain," is from the out-of-print CD and has been a concert staple for years; it is solidly performed and great to have. But it is "The Fox" that demonstrates our apoplexy at the band's "break." Who else can start with a classic folk song before breaking into a Dylan rap and an extended classical selection before bringing it back together for an energized finish in nine minutes? No one. There is no band like Nickle Creek.
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1. The Lighthouse's Tale (5:00) Composed by Chris Thile 2. Out of the Woods (5:20) 3. When in Rome (4:15) Composed by Chris Thile 4. Helena (4:40) Composed by Chris Thile 5. Smoothie Song (3:19) Composed by Chris Thile 6. Somebody More Like You (2:58) Composed by Sean Watkins 7. Reasons Why (4:07) Composed by Sean Watkins 8. Can't Complain (5:31) Composed by Chris Thile 9. I Should've Known Better (4:26) Composed by Carrie Newcomer 10. This Side (3:34) Composed by Sean Watkins 11. Jealous of the Moon (4:40) Composed by Gary Louris 12. When You Come Back Down (3:52) Composed by Tim O'Brien 13. You Don't Have to Move That Mountain (Live) (3:51) Composed by Keith Whitley 14. The Fox (Live) (9:19) Composed by Bob Dylan 15. Reasons Why (DVD) () Composed by Sean Watkins 16. When You Come Back Down (DVD) () Composed by Tim O'Brien 17. Lighthouse's Tale (DVD) () Composed by Chris Thile 18. This Side (DVD) () Composed by Sean Watkins 19. Speak (DVD) () Composed by Sean Watkins 20. Smoothie Song (DVD) () Composed by Chris Thile 21. When in Rome (DVD) () Composed by Chris Thile
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Astral Weeks Review
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(More customer reviews)This is probably my favorite album of all time. I've listened to it countless times, and it never gets old. Those other reviewers who don't "get it" make a few valid points:
1) It isn't perfectly played.
2) The songs aren't polished.
3) It isn't Van's strongest collection of songs.
First of all, it isn't necessary for great music to be note-perfect. ASTRAL WEEKS is about the magic of improvisation-- the suspended thrill of playing (and listening) on the cusp of discovery. In that way, the album is a perfect marriage of music and lyrics, as Van bends and twists the language in an effort to TRANSCEND the earthly significance of his words, to conjure a piece of heaven out of the frustration and pain that wracks his existence. Like Ray Charles did 15 years prior, Van fuses gospel and blues, the sacred and the profane.
For those of you hear only hippy-dippy (...), you're obviously missing the unbearable heartache that haunts these songs. Cypress Avenue deals with unrequited, perhaps forbidden love. Madame George captures the mixture of joy and sadness that comes with lost innocence, getting on "the train" that takes one away from a place of safety and comfort. Ballerina is a burst of effusive passion, but the object of the singer's affection is separate from him, a spectral fantasy that he can only gaze on with paralyzed amazement. Thank god these rough gems weren't polished for radio consumption-- their unique, spontaneous quality would have been ruined.
I concede that this isn't Van's strongest collection of songs, but it's hard to think of these tracks as "songs" in the conventional sense-- impressionistic sketches, maybe, but they hardly lose any artistic merit because of that. ASTRAL WEEKS is not a jazz album, but it certainly brandishes a jazz mentality-- the triumph of feel over form, emotional release over craftsmanship. If that's not your cup of tea, then proceed directly to MOONDANCE. But if you're searching for a true musical journey-- in the truest sense of the word-- then ASTRAL WEEKS is the apogee.
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Pressed on 180gram vinyl. Mastered from the original analog master tapes and it features all original packaging 1968's Astral Weeks remains not only Morrison's masterpiece, but one of the greatest records ever made. A haunting, deeply personal collection of impressionistic Folk styled epics recorded by an All Star Jazz backing unit including bassist Richard Davis and drummer Connie Kay, its poetic complexity earned critical raves but made only a minimal commercial impact. Astral Weeks had been dark and anguished.--This text refers to the Vinyl edition.
Celtic Thunder Review
Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)I can't believe that people are giving this low stars just because it does not have all of the songs from the concert DVD (which is a separate product altogether). You really should rate the CD on what it IS and what it is not.
Besides, executive producer Sharon Browne posted on their official web site that there will be a 2nd CD containing the "missing" songs that will be coming out in September, and featuring a bonus track of "Danny Boy."
So my review of the CD, as it IS....
Wonderful! If you are looking for traditional Irish music, this probably isn't the album for you, but if you are looking for five talented vocal performers coming together to produce a terrific contemporary album, then hold on to your seats! Each song is beautifully arranged and executed to perfection, producing a coherent album that embraces each of the strengths of the individual soloists.
Definitely recommended!
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For Celtic Thunder, Sharon Browne has teamed up with Grammy-nominated Irish songwriting and composing veteran Phil Coulter to produce a show that includes an eclectic mix of songs ranging from the traditional "Mountains of Mourne" and "Come By the Hills" to international hits such as "Brothers in Arms" and "Desperado," as well as original compositions by Coulter, who has written hits for Elvis Presley ("My Boy") and the Bay City Rollers, and performed with Van Morrison, Tom Jones, and the Rolling Stones. The ensemble numbers in Celtic Thunder reflect the power of the vocalists, who range in age from 14 to 40, and feature songs that celebrate a common Celtic heritage.
Christmas Celebration Review
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(More customer reviews)Thanks to Public Broadcasting, the musical quintet CELTIC WOMAN has quite a fan base. It's easy to see why. They are pleasing performers who perform beautiful music together. They have their own sound which has a broad appeal. This makes the group natural candidates for a Christmas collection that will be loved not just by fans but anyone who loves holiday music. This collection does not disappoint.
Most of the tracks in this collection are traditional Christmas titles both religious to the secular. The temptation of many performers is to just sing some Christmas songs and hope for the best. CELTIC WOMAN does the opposite. There is a true ensemble approach to the music and we never get a sense of competition or jealousy. The carols are performed with reverence and the contemporary songs are pleasant. The authentic Celtic music and selections from the British Isles are perhaps the strongest in the collection. There is a distinct Celtic sound where appropriate including the beautiful violin (fiddle) playing of group member Mairead Nesbitt, but numbers where a Celtic flair would be out of place are performed traditionally with wonderful arrangements. The selections are varied, so it should be enjoyed by just about anyone who loves holiday music.
My guess is that fans of CELTIC WOMAN will not need a review to convince them to purchase this CD. For those who may not be familiar with this ensemble, if you're looking for a varied Christmas CD with beautiful music and wonderful arrangements that will both entertain and sooth, then CELTIC WOMAN: A CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION fits the bill. I'm sure it will be a popular holiday release this year and in many years to come.
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No Description Available
Track: 10: Panis Angelicus,
Track: 11: Don Oiche Ud I Mbeithail That Night In Bethehem,
Track: 12: O Comes All Ye Faithful,
Track: 13: The Little Drummer Boy,
Track: 14: The Wexford Carol,
Track: 15: Let It Snow Bonus Tracks,
Track: 1: O Holy Night,
Track: 2: Away In A Manger,
Track: 3: Ding Dong Merrily On Hight,
Track: 4: White Christmas,
Track: 5: Silent Night,
Track: 6: Christmas Pipes,
Track: 7: The Christmas Song,
Track: 8: Carol Of The Bells,
Track: 9: Have Yourself A Merry Little ChristmasMedia Type: CDArtist: CELTIC WOMANTitle: CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONStreet Release Date: 10/03/2006
A Mediterranean Odyssey Review
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(More customer reviews)For those who could not see Loreena in Budapest, this is the next best thing. I nearly gave this four stars - but decided that five stars were merited for both Loreena's talent and for the incredible musicians. What almost lost her a star was that there IS NO NEW MATERIAL on this CD set. All of the songs are available on her other sets.
One CD is just a sampling of her music, sort of a "greatest hits" collection without actually putting that on the CD cover - maybe Loreena thought that was too passe', too ABBAish, if I can turn that group into an adjective....(And Yes, ABBA was a fun band)
The other CD has an assortment of her music recorded at the various locations on her latest tour and it would have been fantastic to see her perform these in Budapest and Istanbul. She has changed some of the songs slightly, and her voice has a warmth and depth that it does not have on the Alhambra DVD. The other change is a greater emphasis of the bass guitar, which can seem out of place with the Celtic/Byzantine direction she had been going, and makes it sound a little more jazzy. The violin is not as pronounced as it was on Alhambra, which is a capital shame since Hugh is so singularly talented, and Nigl has been entirely replaced on the hurdy gurdy, AND YOU CAN TELL. What happened to Nigl?
I enjoyed this for the warm tone of Loreena's voice, and it is replete with beauty and talent - just wish it had some new material. If I had to pick one CD to take with me, it would still be the Alhambra.
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A Mediterranean Odyssey comprises a richly designed Limited Edition 2 disc set commemorating Loreena McKennitt's 2009 Mediterranean Tour. Designed to attract not only the legions of devoted Loreena listeners, but to expose and inspire the uninitiated to an exotic, haunting and emotional musical experience they will never forget. A glittering addition to Loreena McKennitt's catalogue - A Mediterranean Odyssey combines NEW live performances of audience favourites from her 2009 Mediterranean Tour with a collection of previously released studio recordings. Inspired by the tones, textures and rich cultural heritage of the Mediterranean, this latest release features virtuosic performances on authentic instruments including oud, lyra, bouzouki, harp and hurdy-gurdy alongside electric guitar, cello and percussion. Experience the continuing journey of the Celts across the Mediterranean and Aegean seas with this evocative 2-disc set. Disc 1 "The Olive and the Cedar" A Mediterranean-inspired collection of 11 studio recordings personally selected by Loreena McKennitt from her back catalogue. Disc 2 "From Istanbul to Athens" Is 56 minutes of concert highlights from the 2009 Mediterranean Tour including five songs not featured in previous Loreena McKennitt "in concert" releases. Includes a 24 page, lavishly illustrated booklet featuring on-location photographs captured during the tour.
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A New Journey Review
Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)Celtic Woman is back in a refreshing new album, rivaling, if not surpassing, their previous work. Once again, recurring themes of nature, destiny, history, heritage and love are infused with Celtic melodies to make this music timeless and classic. And don't discount the fantastic arrangement by David Downes. His genius is clearly exhibited in the orchestral and choral background for the songs, as well as song selection.
Describing this music is a hopeless task; if the words were sufficient, we wouldn't need the music. But I'll try.
1. The Sky and the Dawn and the Sun:
Begins with the lush, evocative strains of mystery and exotic nostalgia as only Celtic styles can weave. The music is enriched as the five vocals (Chloë, Órla, Lisa, Méav and newcomer Hayley) join their voices into a spectacular blossoming melody of morning and dawn, of newness and awakening.
In a musical interlude, the wondrous violinist Máiréad takes charge with her rapturous performance. To listen to her is not enough. To fully understand her talent (indeed, the talent of the entire group) you have to buy the DVD or catch a viewing on PBS. Máiréad is a fleet-footed fairy similar to J.R.R. Tolkien's character Tinuviel. She dances and darts about the stage, bounding from one end to the other, flinging her flaxen hair to and fro, kicking up her heels. All the while she is playing, her hands moving almost faster than the human eye can follow, sawing the bow across the strings, eliciting fast-paced melodies beyond the scope of human imagination. There is almost a devilish glint of innocent mischief in her eyes and smile as she dances.
In short, the first song is the perfect opening track to reintroduce us to the Celtic Woman reverie.
2. The Prayer
A song that fits its name; a simple prayer for guidance and aid. Chloë's voice has clearly matured since the previous album.
3. Newgrange
As with "Harry's Game" from the previous album, the mystical, foreboding songs are entrusted to Órla's voice, the deepest of the group. In this case, the song is of a secret place filled with the memory of heroic kings and druids.
4. Over The Rainbow
The classic song is given a unique "a cappella" interpretation by all of the vocals sans Lisa. I've never been particularly fond of the piece, but the group does an excellent, almost lullaby-like rendition of the song, worth repeating.
5. Granuaile's Dance
A solo performance by Máiréad that is half traditional Irish music, half lively dancing music.
6. The Blessing
Solo by Lisa, a soft, simple song of love and devotion, blessings imparted to one's significant other.
7. Dúlaman
A song dominated by percussion and something we haven't heard much of before, male-dominant background vocals and even a brief male solo. Otherwise, the song is a solo by Méav in Gaelic. The translation has something to do with Irish seaweed and courtship. Don't expect to make much sense of it; just sit back and enjoy.
8. Beyond The Sea
A far more ethereal rendition of the song frequently appearing in movies such as Finding Nemo or Apollo 13. Possibly the best version I've yet heard, speaking to future love and rest from one's weary travels.
9. The Last Rose of Summer
Hayley's first solo, this is Thomas Moore's poem set to music. The arrangement is more operatic and classical than Celtic.
10. Caledonia
One of the top three on the CD. It is another solo from Lisa, and there is just something about this song you just can't put your finger on. It is filled with warmth, love and romance, and the higher calling of "Caledonia" (the romanticized name for Scotland).
11. Laschia Ch'io Pianga
Another operatic solo from Hayley, the song is somewhat repetitive and the melody is monotonous. (Blame Handel.) Probably one of the more uninteresting tracks. It does not even correspond to the sadness that the translated lyrics suggest. It's still good, just not phenomenal.
12. Carrickfergus
A quiet ballad from Órla (accompanying herself on the harp), a nostalgic song of bygone days in the Irish town of Carrickfergus.
13. Vivaldi's Rain
Another very classical piece sung by Chloë. The song is translated as a prayer to the Lord for guidance, but this time because the singer has fallen in love.
14. The Voice
One of the most hauntingly beautiful, fast-paced tracks of the CD, "The Voice" speaks to the past of Ireland. Transcending time, "the voice" is of nature, of history, of both past, present and future, with all the sadness and glories of both. Hence, the song is both promising and melancholy. With the mournful violin and the harsh percussion mixed with Lisa's crystal clear voice, there's no denying this is one of the top songs of the album.
15. Scarborough Fair
A decidedly unhappy song, it is the third solo exceptionally performed by Hayley. She has clearly earned her place in the group. The song is abbreviated from the original, which is a woebegone tale of sundered lovers.
16. Mo Ghile Mear
"Now the time has come to leave / Keep the flame and still believe / Know that love will shine through darkness / One bright star to light the wave."
An excellent closing song performed by the entire group, consisting of both English and Gaelic lyrics, a song of happy farewell much resembling "The Soft Goodbye" from the previous album.
In closing, let me just say, there's a reason this group has spent more than a year on the top of the world record charts. Their music transcends individual styles. The arrangements are appealing. In the performers, talent is manifested in celestial voices and radiant countenance. You're out of excuses. Buy the album. Or the deluxe. Still further, buy the DVD.
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CD > POPULAR MUSIC > ROCK
Celtic Thunder: Take Me Home (2009) Review
Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)Okay, many of the reviews here either pre-date the DVD release, or refer just to the group themselves, not this DVD. Which can be misleading to someone considering this purchase. I'm going to just address the Take Me Home DVD.
The guys sound great on the DVD (unquestionably live this time 'round) and are just as cute and talented as ever, though I do have some issues with this set. Damian needs more mature songs to go with his more mature voice, and Keith fans will be disappointed that he sings nothing new here (the only one who doesn't. And I'm not counting Castles in the Air, since it was included in the Act II cd). The Take Me Home cd has two new Keith songs, which for some reason don't make it into the show. The CD may be more worth your money, as it consists of all new songs, plus a new version of Steal Away, that you do hear on the DVD. As others have said, this DVD seems to just recycle a lot of songs from the first DVD, which is disappointing.
But none of that bothers me as much as the AWFUL production value of the DVD. It looks like someone from a college video class made it. Crazy camera angles, unnecessary zooms, shaky-cam to the point of vomit-cam a couple of times. Bad lighting, strange crowd shots, and even my DVD menu didn't work. I can't do anything in the Song Selection on the main menu. It keeps looping and looping. I have to play the first song, stop, hit menu, and THEN I can select a particular song. At the end of the DVD, if I hit stop, it won't, and then after it plays out on it's own, I again get booted back to the Song Selection menu, which still won't let me select a song. Anyone else having this problem? It is just another example of how this DVD was shoddily made in an effort to cash in quickly on the Lad's popularity. It is insulting to them and their fans.
So, to sum up, Celtic Thunder, the group, get 5 stars. Celtic Thunder, Take Me Home, the DVD, gets a 0. If you are a CT fan, as I am, you'll get this anyway (or even pre-ordered it like me, whaaa) but just be prepared that it is nowhere near as nicely done as the first one.
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A DVD with a running time of almost 2 hours features 13 new Celtic Thunder performances!Since March 2008, Celtic Thunder has spent over 45 weeks at the top of the Billboard World Music Charts, knocking themselves off the number 1 spot with their second CD "Celtic Thunder Act II." Now after scanning close to 400K units and playing to over 200,000 people on their second North American Tour Celtic Thunder presents Take Me Home (filmed at Casino Rama in Ontario, Canada on April21st '09) an all new show on CD and DVD.The event features almost all new material with only three of the most popular songs from the original Celtic Thunder pledge show included. The new songs are dynamic and exciting. Damian (a foot and a half taller with a new deeper voice) has great new songs in "Happy Birthday Sweet 16" and "Breaking Up is Hard to Do" and would give a young Neil Sedaka or Frankie Vallie a run for his money! Ryan's dark destroyer character develops well with a rendition of Sting's "Every Breath You Take", George's personality and sense of humour comes to the fore in "500 Miles", a highlight in the show and Paul's performance of "You Raise Me Up" is not to be missed. Keith, the blonde surfer heart-throb is set to steal more hearts with "Castles in the Air" accompanying himself on the guitar. The guys come together for both "Working Man" and "Take Me Home", as ever their voices even more powerful in these ensemble songs, and in the harmony pieces. "Danny's Boy" A Cappella, has been included due to popular demand after their performance on 5th Ave for "St Patrick's Day" and performing it at the White House that night - the highlight of their success in the USA.Also Available: A new studio CD that features 15 songs/14 never before on CD!
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Celtic Woman Review
Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)I recently discovered Celtic Woman courtesy of my local PBS station that aired their performance that is already out on dvd. I just fell in love the mix of classical and celtic music. What really struck me was the clarity of the women's vocals were. Lisa, Chloe, Meav, and Orla sang with great restraint and did not go down the Celine Dion route and oversing each high note known to mankind. While I do think that Lisa and Meav has the strongest set of pipes, it does not mean that I think Chloe and Orla has thin, weak vocals. I just thought Lisa and Meav's vocals really stood out for me.
My most personal favorite song on the album is the gorgeous ballad "Someday" from Disney's "Hunchback of Notre Dame". I was truly moved by Chloe's performance when I saw her sing it on the PBS special. That song along is why I bought this cd. It is a beautiful song that sends chills down my spine every time I listen to it. Chloe also does a stunning job on "Walking in the Air". It is quite a contrast from the heavy metal version by Nightwish. Another favorite song is "Harry's Game" sung by Orla. Her vocals on this song also gives me the chills. I am so glad that "Si Do Mhaimeo i (The Wealthy Widow)" was included on the cd. It is one of my favorite songs from the PBS special. A very playful song. I wish I knew what the english translation were. Another favorite highlight for me on this album is their version of "You Raise Me Up". That really made the hair on my arms stand up tall. It really moved me emotionally, more so than Josh Groban's version. What I found rather interesting about the recorded version and the live version on the PBS special is that the recorded version sounded like it was sung strictly by Meav while the credits listed Meav, Lisa, Chloe and Orla. If you listened to this cd as much as I have (which is a few times a day), you can easily recognize Meav's delicate soprano vocals.
I wish that the cd also included Enya's "Marble Halls" and Bach's "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring". They were simply breathtaking. Other than that, I loved this entire cd. There was not a single song that I didn't like or felt should have been left out. I look forward to hearing more music from the women of Celtic Woman.
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