Hummel: Oberon's Magic Horn

Advantages: Breakthrough electric pop
Disadvantages: Sounds a little dated

...The buggles were innovaters of the synth sound of the late 70's. Best rembered for their huge hit "Video Killed the Radio Star" they also had hits with 'The Plastic age' & 'Clean Clean'. This was the first of two albums they produced. Mainly a duo trevor horn went onto have great success as a producer of Fankie Goes to Hollywood. This album still sounds excellent although some feel it has dated. A stand out track is 'Johnny on the Monorail'. If you are a fan of the Human League or ABC you will like this. Recommended for old new romantics who want to remember the 80's. Their other Cd was ' Adventures in modern recording ' and has is not easily available in the UK something hopefully the record company will address.... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: Two of country music's finest join forces
Disadvantages: It might not happen again

...jazz number employing the trumpet magic of Calexico's Jacob Valenzuela and Martin Wenk. After starting steadily with gorgeous vocal interplay, the horns take over and push this track ever skyward to a breathtaking climax. 7. Dead Man's Will: A heartbreaking tale of a dying man's final wishes and regrets, Calexico lend only their voices and vibraphone to the best track here. Recorded in Beam's usual lo-fi style, it exudes a warmth and charm that belies the gritty message behind the lyrics. Stunning.... Read review

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Advantages: One of Beethoven's finest symphonies.
Disadvantages: None from me, but some will say "classical music is boring".

...commissioned to write an incidental piece for Johann Nepomuk Mälzel's invention the panharmonicon in celebration of the victory of the Duke of Wellington over the French army, called "Wellingtons Sieg oder die Schlacht bei Vittoria". These two works received their first performances in the same concert, organized by Mälzel in December 1813. The concert was a massive success with the Seventh Symphony and Welligton's Sieg both being received very favourably due to the patriotic feelings of the audience. Beethoven was the conductor at this occasion with Ignaz Schuppanzigh, Ludwig Spohr and Domenico Dragonetti in the orchestra. Kapellmeister Antonio Salieri along with Johann Nepomuk Hummel were responsible for firing the guns and cannons in Wellington's Sieg. Playing the bass-drum was the young Giacomo Meyerbeer who, according to Beethoven, was so... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average very helpful