20th Century Bach

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

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Advantages: Too many to list
Disadvantages: Some good songs missing

...through the masses, with just one release; then do it sublime! Do it "A day in the life," Do it "Across the Universe," Do it "In my life"time. Too much concentration on their first period. Those lovely early songs, are fresh air for the soul, but remember that variation gives more meaning to it all. There are quite a few really good songs that should have been included on this C.D. In conclusion, all the bealtes albums are essential for a true music lover. A collection without them is like a Bible without gospels. If you are seriously into music, you just can't ignore the best example of progress ever made by a group or individual. The Beatle would be my choice for the band of the 20th Century. It's a wonderful CD, and with Christmas just over a month away, then what present to buy for a loved one.... Read review

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Advantages: Bonney's gorgeous voice; intelligent singing; great selection of songs
Disadvantages: No translations included

...sound equally as comfortable singing a quirky 20th Century song as they do singing early music, but Bonney has this tremendous versatility. Her singing also displays an intelligence often lacking in modern singers, giving her songs a huge emotional impact. ‘The Radiant Voice of Barbara Bonney’ reads like a ‘greatest hits’ album, filled with individual gems which reflect the success which she has had in her professional life. The track listing flows roughly chronologically (in terms of when the works were composed) which works well, giving the listener a sort of mini tour of the history of music. There is a rich variety of music on this album, putting early music alongside operatic arias and 20th Century songs, and the accompaniments also lend a fantastic variety, ranging to the lute accompanied Dowland song... Read review

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