19th-Century Sacred Works

Advantages: Two orchestras, one conductor, great selection of pieces
Disadvantages: None

...this and receding conservatism of the 19th Century than in the concert halls of Paris - city of culture and fashion. The ultra-chic Parisians, doyens of good taste were confronted by a barbaric description of a tribal sacrifice - a virgin girl forced to dance until exhaustion claims her life, and the gods her soul. Well it is nearly 100 years since the piece was written, and together with it's predecessor, the Firebird (which is wholly more Romantic and less Modern in its conception) here are two of the giants of 20th century music. The performances are very good too. The LSO flexes its muscles and shows it's power, whilst the LPO offer more clarity and transparency in their sound. This amalgamation of the two orchestras on one release serves to highlight the differences between the two of them - something which might influence your choice... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: a fab atmospheric music
Disadvantages: bit dark

..., it speaks about lack of heart in English settlers in Australia.Yet, if you know Nick Cave’s music, which ranks as ghotic alternative rock, and the soundtrack itself wouldn’t be surprise for you. FILM Film"The Proposition" Western conflicts the clash between civilizations. Set in Australia, in the late 19th century, the film starts with chaotic gunfire nearby a whorehouse. Then follows brutal scenes, especially brutal scene of Mickey (one of the gang brother) being whipped almost to death in front of righteous Christian bloodthirsty viewers. Entire film, director John Hillcoat fills with heat and dust that might be seen as a biblical motives. There is a contrast here, Stanley's pretty, devoted wife Martha (Emily Watson) blind and deaf when it comes to her husbands’ cruel nature, happily saved by the bell from being raped by bad Irish from... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: Good historical recording
Disadvantages: Would be better with today's transfer technology

...A sympathetic collection of one of the most significant musicals of the Great War era. Very interesting for music historians and those seeking wartime nostalgia. "The Bing Boys are Here" was a comedy musical revue with a varying programme of songs. It opened on the 19th April 1916. The story was light hearted and provided a welcome entertainment for the troops on leave as well as the general population. It reflected the hope for the future in one of the darkest periods of the Twentieth Century - the story centering around the two brothers Bing leaving home and heading towards the City to seek their fortunes. Unfortunately doesn't include one of the most famous standards - probably the only one still sung today: "Let the Great Big World Keep Turning" Perhaps a better attempt at transferring the original recordings to digital... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful