Complete 1943-1951 Small Group Recordings, The - Ben Webster

Advantages: A compact CD with excellent repertoire
Disadvantages: May not be know to the younger generation

...A Classic old time favourite by Ella Fitzgerald with excellent vocals and the timbre unique to Ella herself; optimum recording exceeds some modern Jazz in tonality and expression. Ella Fitzgerald provides good enjoyable listening and a splendid addition to previous volumes - a veritable Jazz experience, well recommended. As an old classic released in 2005 this Ella Fitzgerald Vol. 4 is not new on the market but still provides enjoyable background music - why not propose on occasions such as family celebrations or some super wedding anniversary? Ella Fitzgerald generates loving memories and moving old-time novelties for the younger generation. As for the collectionists or jazz music afficionados I would say this CD of Classic Jazz Vocals would be a special addition ensuring some long moments of listening to good music with a good... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: Beautiful but still rocky; truly unique.
Disadvantages: The album is absent from many record stores.

...Ben Folds Five are, unfortunately, a largely undiscovered phenomenon, especially in the UK, which is odd since they are on the giant Sony Music label. The trio of Ben Folds on piano and vocals, Robert Sledge on bass and Darren Jessee on drums gives a truly unique sound - the use of the piano allows some incredibly powerful ballads from the group, but they aren't afraid to rock hard either. That's not to say the sound is specialised; indeed all of my friends, whether rock, jazz or pop fans, enjoy the music of Ben Folds Five. The album "Whatever and Ever Amen" represents some of the band's best work. The album opens with "One Angry Dwarf", beginning with a typical Folds piano solo, which leads to a catchy, up-beat chorus. The highlights of the album are the poignant ballad "Brick" with its beautiful chorus, the wonderfully angry "Song... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: this album is like no other
Disadvantages: none

...` with attitude. Catchy chorus,catchy song. 3)Julianne - Once again,a shock for the listener as the piano develops into an element of rock. In contrast to the previous song, this takes an in- your-face approach 4)Where`s summerb? - In my opinion, their best song. Completely different from the previous song. This is incredibly catchy and shows how simplicity is just as importnat to music as technicality. A simple,but stunning, piano solo makes this song and great vocals helps it groove. 5)Alice Childress - Co-written with Anna Goodman, Ben folds creates their beat love song. A stunning opening piano riff is matched withe an equally impressive chorus. Vocal harmony stands out here and beutiful piano counter-melodies. Ben`s voice suits this style of music down to the bone. Compared to track 3 you`ll think it`s a different band. 6)Underground... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful