Memories - Royal Philharmonic Orchestra (The)

Advantages: spine-tingling arias
Disadvantages: none

...A few years ago I was in a local pub and this handsome barman caught my eye!During a short break from bartending he took to the floor and I couldn't believe the sound which was coming from him-the place was brought to a standstill and the hairs on the back of my kneck stood to attention.We all knew we would see this guy again. I have recently bought his album and am pleased to say those hairs were once again up on the back of my kneck.Playing this in the car,I was almost spellbound by the amazing voice of Tony Henry-beautiful modern and familiar songs accompanied by The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra;She being a particular favourite of mine and the haunting First Time Ever I saw Your Face. Tony Henry deserves to be a star-I hope we hear a whole lot more of this beautiful voice.... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: A top quality orchestra playing Meat Loaf, great back or foreground music
Disadvantages: As predicted, some of the songs aren't full length.

...This CD is just what it claims to be, classic Meaty favourites performed by a full blown orchestra (I didn't know there was a piano in an orchestra, but there is in this one {there may even be a guitar but I can't remember}). The songs are performed to the highest quality and are instantly recognisable (assuming you know the original of course). This album is full of tracks spanning Bat 1 right up to Welcome to the Neighbourhood, and although epics like "I'd do anything for love" have been cut down to under 6 minutes, you get good value for money. I bought my copy on ebay for £4, but would have happily paid double now I've heard it. It'll be great background music for cocktail parties or anything that needs jazzing up, and I particularly enjoy listening to it as I drift to sleep at night...... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: The pivotal opera in the G&S catalogue
Disadvantages: Rather lightweight compared with what was to follow

...and bright. This performance is coupled with a recording of “The Zoo”, a one-act operetta by Sullivan in partnership with librettist Bolton Rowe (the pen name of B.C. Stephenson). “Trial By Jury” had been a considerable success some months earlier and this one opened at the St. James's Theatre on June 5, 1875. After a brief run and an even briefer revival in 1879, the opera was not given again in Sullivan's lifetime. The manuscript was thought lost until found in a bank vault. This performance was recorded in 1978. THE SORCERER - Gilbert & Sullivan (1966) The D’Oyly Carte Opera Company The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra: Conducted by Isidore Godfrey Soloists: John Reed (John Wellington Wells); David Palmer (Alexis) Donald Adams (Sir Marmaduke); Valerie Masterson (Aline) Christine Palmer (Lady Sangazure); Ann Hood (Constance) THE ZOO... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful