Elis And Tom - Elis Regina & Antonio Carlos Jobim

Advantages: Fantastic album, highly entertaining!!
Disadvantages: None!!!

...I personally came to this album after hearing the most recent by Regina, 'Begin to Hope'. Already completely obsessed with Regina I had to search out new material! Regina Spektor is an amazing talent, mixing jazz sounds, classical piano, kooky lyrics and much more! Its hard to pin this lady down as every song sounds different. The only thing linking all her songs is the ability she has to suck a listener into her many stories. I found 'Soviet Kitsch' just a satisfying if not more so than 'Begin to Hope' , a slightly rawer sound which feels a lot more experimental, it is a really exciting album with a lot of variation and a lot to offer. Songs like 'Ode to Divorce' are moving and slow and gentle, where as 'Poor little rich boy' includes percussion involving a drumstick being banged on a chair. Overall the album is a triumph one of those... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: an unusual yet interesting and easy listening experience.
Disadvantages: Unusual style, not liked by all.

...This cd has to be one of the most interesting purchases for me this year. The lyrics are orginal and Regina's voice is incredibly enticing and spellbinding. All songs have the ingredients needed for a hit, clever metaphors, catchy tunes, thought provoking lyrics and incredible individuality. There are also a great number of songs that will quite literally be stuck in your head for days, possibly even weeks!!! Will be enjoyed thoroughly by people who also like Fiona Apple, Natalie Merchant, etc. Although not exactly the same in genre and sound as the two mentioned singers Regina has equal if not superior uniqueness. I would highly recommend this buy, it is great value for money and a life time music investment!... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: Each song on the C.D is different with thought-provoking lyrics and memorable songs.
Disadvantages: One song repetitive and boring - "that time"

...Since listening to Radio 2, I have noticed that Terry Wogan has a talent in finding gifted female artists such as Katie Melua and Eva Cassidy. After hiring Samson, (Regina Spektor’s first single release,) I immediately had to go and by the album- “Begin To Hope.” The album is simply beautiful. I was overwhelmed with her voice and pure effortless perfection. The lyrics are fascinating. Being originally from Moscow, the slight accent makes her voice recognisable. “Fidelity”, “Better”, “Samson” and “On The Radio,” are the best on the album. Samson is outstanding and mesmerizing. I also loved “Summer In The City,” with witty, funny lyrics: “And the castrated ones stand in the corner smoking, they want to feel, the bulges in their pants start to rise, at the site of a beautiful woman they feel nothing but, anger... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful