Una Noche Con

Track Listings

1. Me Voy Me Voy

2. Caracol

3. Pobre Diablo

4. Cancion Mixteca

5. Mi Amor Como Te Extraño

6. Serenata Borracha

7. Por las Cantinas

8. Si Nos Dejan

9. Toca el Saxofon

10. Vida Truncada

11. Sabrocita

12. Chambelan

13. Ramo de Rosas

14. Mil Cadenas

15. July July

Una Noche Con,Conjunto Primavera,Joey International,Conjunto,Latin,Mexican,Norteño,Regional Mexican

Una Noche Con

Una Noche Con

Round Midnight - O.S.T.
Average customer rating:

In the still of the night

A great jazz score

This album is the best!!!!!

JAZZ ROUND MIDNIGHT: A SOUNDTRACK

A great soundtrack

Round Midnight - O.S.T.
Dexter Gordon
Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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The Other Side of Round Midnight

Ballads: Dexter Gordon

Round Midnight

Our Man in Paris

Go!

ASIN: B0000658N8
Release Date: 2002-04-16

Tracks:

'Round Midnight
Body And Soul
Berangere's Nightmare
Fair Weather
Una Noche Con Francis
The Peacocks
How Long Has This Been Going On?
Rhythm-A-Ning
Still Time
Minuit Aux Champs-Elysees
Chan's Song (Never Said)
'Round Midnight - Bonus Track

Amazon.com

Soundtrack buffs may know that this score to director Bertrand Tavernier's alluring jazz period piece inexplicably won the 1986 Oscar for best soundtrack instead of Morricone and his rich, enduring music for The Mission. That injustice aside, it remains a worthy collage of vintage jazz standards, new material, and contemporary performers, as filtered through the spirit of the story's main character (an amalgam of Bud Powell and Lester Young) and the '50s Paris jazz scene. It's also a tribute to Round Midnight musical director Herbie Hancock, with his crucial understanding that jazz--and especially bebop--can never stand on tradition, lest it lose its very reason for being. Thus he lets then-newcomer Bobby McFerrin loose on Monk's moody title track, gives vet Chet Baker's horn and voice a warm turn in the spotlight on "Fair Weather," and allows Lonette McKee and star Dexter Gordon to infuse Gershwin's "How Long Has This Been Going On" with some languorous, subtly sexual heat. Other highlights include a romp through Monk's "Rhythm-a-Ning," Hancock's tense, modernist "Berangere's Nightmare," and the spare, enchanting duet with Bobby Hutcherson, "Minuit aux Champs-Elysees." Remarkably, most of the film's music was recorded live on the set, giving it a compelling warmth and immediacy that's increasingly rare. This new edition features expanded liner notes as well as a bonus cut of the title track performed by Dexter Gordon's quintet live at the Village Vanguard in 1967. --Jerry McCulley

Customer Reviews:

In the still of the night.......2006-11-10

Amazingly good! Whether you're chating, reading your favorite writer, making love or just spending some time for yourself, this music will overwhelm you.

A great jazz score.......2006-07-01

I'm not so keen on jazz music; however, I must say that this album is excellent, probably the second best of its kind after the all-time classic soundtrack for "Ascenseur Pour L'Echauffaud" ("Elevator to the Gallows"), one of the masterpieces by Louis Malle. The music here is certainly high class material: atmospheric, suggestive and wonderfully interpreted. If you're a jazz buff and haven't heard it yet, be sure that you've missed half of your life, so GET IT RIGHT AWAY!

This album is the best!!!!!.......2006-06-15

I've never seen the movie and really, I don't have to. I love this album. I thought that it was very nicely done and it is so perfect. But really, it was the song "Round Midnight" with Bobby McFerrin that caught my ear. Listening to him singing that muted trumpet is sooo heavenly. So, I had to find this album if only to hear this song. It was a real treat that I got the other songs as well. "Fair Weather" by Chet Baker is another favorite of mine. I would urge any jazz lover to pick this album up. I guarantee you that you will not be disappointed.

JAZZ ROUND MIDNIGHT: A SOUNDTRACK.......2005-05-26

This is an Original Motion Picture Soundtrack CD. The DVD of the movie is available but I would start here first. Maybe because one doesn't need to have the story told to you on wide screen and dolby sound. This CD is "intimate". Like the "Blue Note" it resonates lonesome nights in distant foreign places where the echo of the night is in Dexter Gordon's lingering Sax wail. Then perhaps none of that is important. Perhaps it's the compilation of so many jazz voices all in this one CD. While making this movie, Warner Bro could have bought rights to the Blue Note records as background. But it was important to give a fresh sound to the challenge of making a film about jazz. Warners turned to Herbie Hancock to develop the music background and Dexter Gordon to write compositions for the film. They did so beautifully without loosing the essential flavor or sense of place and time depicted in the film: Paris and the Fifties. If your interest is to develop or explore jazz music from the early 50s, here's your opportunity. Central to the background are musicians of the caliber of Chet Baker, Ron Carter, Billy Higgins, Freddie Hubbard, Bobby Hucherson, Bobby McFerrin, Lonette McKee, John McLaughlin, Pierre Michelot, Wayne Shorter, Cedar Walton, and Tony Williams. You can rent or buy the DVD. This CD will help you soak up that atmosphere now lost from places like the "Blue Note". In this CD you will hear the echo of the strains of 50s jazz normally heard "back then and round midnight". Listen to "How Long Has This Been Going On?" and "Una Noche Con Francis" and your heart will be lost. ps: I have the original vinyl LP version of "Round Midnight" and somehow, scratches and all, it's almost better heard this way.

A great soundtrack.......2005-03-28

This soundtrack is an attempt by Herbie Hancock and his line-up of excellent jazz performers to evoke the jazz scene of Paris in the 50s. I have no way to judge how successful they were since I wasn't conceived until '63 and have never been to France, but I can and will testify that they have produced an enduring recording that I have never tired of in the many years that I have been listening to it. Bobby McFerrin demonstrates that he is much more than "Don't Worry Be Happy" as he does an amazing job of evoking a horn with his voice on the title track. "Chan's Song" and "How Long Has This Been Going On?" also leap to mind, but there really isn't a single clinker in the bunch.

Average customer rating:

The most noble voice
PURCHASE THIS JEWEL WHILE YOU CAN
luminous artistry from a genius
A special Dignity and an Unfailing Beauty of Voice.

Songs Of Spain / De Los Angeles, et al

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Isabel Bayrakdarian ~ Azulão
The Fabulous Victoria De Los Angeles
The Maiden and the Nightingale: Songs of Spain
The Very Best of Victoria de los Angeles
On the Wings Of Song and Zarzuela Arias - Victoria de los Angeles

ASIN: B00000I4KQ
Release Date: 1999-02-23

Tracks:

El rossinyol
El testament d'Amelia
Adios meu homino
Mina nay por me casare
Tengo que subir
Ahi tienes mi corazon
La vi llorando
Ya se van los pastores
Campanas de Belen
Jaeneras que yo canto
A dormir ahora mesmo
Granadinas
Hincarse de rodillas
Cancion de trilla
Parado de Valldemosa
Nik baditut
Andregaya
Din, dan, boleran
Mariam matrem
Ay, triste vida corporal!
Que es mi vida, preguntais?
Porque es, dama, tanto quereros?
No me llames segalaherba
Ay, luna que reluces
En esta larga ausencia
Molinillo que mueles amores
Confiado jilguerillo
Seguidillas religiosas
Cancion de cuna
El jilguerillo con pico de oro
El canape

Tracks:

Ah, el novio no quiere dinero
Coma la rosa en la guerta
Estavase la mora
Aquel rey de Francia
Damos gracias a ti, Dios
Sobre Baca estaba el rey
Ay que non hay!
Rosa das rosas
Maravillosos e piadosos
Tres moricas m'enamoran
Paseabase el rey moro
Dime a do tienes las mientes
Si no's huviera mirado
Dexo la venda
Puse mis amores
Aqui me declaro su pensamiento
Pues que me tienes
Gentil dama, non se gana
Mi querer tanto vos quiere
Una hija tiene el rey
Una matica de ruda
Si la noche se hace oscura
Pastorcico, non te aduermas
Ay triste que vengo
No soy you quien la descrube
Pase el agua, Julieta
Aquel caballero, madre
Duelete de mi, Senora
De Antequera salio el Moro
De los alamos vengo, madre
Enfermo estaba Antioco
Dame acogida en tu hato
Morenica, dame un beso
Senora, si te olvidare
De donde venis, amore?

Tracks:

La rosa enflorece
Ven querida
Adio, querida
Durme, durme, hermozo hijico
Paxaro d'hermosura
Avrix, mi galanica
Irme quiero, la mi madre
Ya viene el cativo
Yo m'enamori d'un aire
Una matica de ruda
Anda, jaleo
Los cuatro muleros
Las tres hojas
Los mozos de Monleon
Las morillas de Jaen
Sevillanas del siglo 18
El cafe de Chinitas
Nana de Sevilla
Los pelegrinitos
Zorongo
Romance de Don Boiso
Los reyes de la baraja
La tarara
El combat del somni: Damunt de tu, nomes les flors
A l'ombra del Lledoner: Canco de grumet
Canciones negras: Cancion de cuna para dormir a un negrito
Cuatro madrigales amatorios: De los alamos vengo, madre
Coleccion de tonadillas: Callejeo
Coleccion de tonadillas: El tra la la y el punteado
Seis canciones castellanas: No quiero tus avellanas
Seis canciones castellanas: Jota
Panxolina
Tu pupila es azul
Cantos populares espanolas: Malaguena
Cantos populares espanolas: Granadina
Cantos populares espanolas: El Vito
Cantos populares espanolas: Pano murciano
Clavelitos
Adios, Granada
Madrigal

Tracks:

Coleccion de tonadillas: Amor y odio
Coleccion de tonadillas: Callejeo
Coleccion de tonadillas: El majo discreto
Coleccion de tonadillas: El majo olvidado
Coleccion de tonadillas: El majo timido
Coleccion de tonadillas: El mirar de la maja
Coleccion de tonadillas: El tra la la y el punteado
Coleccion de tonadillas: La maja de Goya
Coleccion de tonadillas: Las currutacas modestas
Tres majas dolorosas: Oh muerte cruel!
Tres majas dolorosas: Ay majo de mi vida
Tres majas dolorosas: De aquel majo amante
Goyescas: La maja y el ruisenor (Rosario)
'La vida breve': Vivan los que rien! (Salud - Act 1)
'La vida breve': Alli esta! Riyendo! (Salud - Act 2)
'Acis y Galatea': Confiado jilguerillo
El tripili
Llorad, corazon
Iban al pinar
No lloreis, ojuelos
Mananica era
Mira que soy nina
Gracia mia
El pano moruno
Seguidilla murciana
Asturiana
Jota
Nana
Cancion
Polo
'La Tempranica': Zapateado (La tarantula e un bicho mu malo)

Customer Reviews:

The most noble voice.......2004-05-28

Victoria de los Angeles' voice not only has a silken quality and fascinating glow to it but it is one of the most regal, noble sounds you'll ever hear. She illuminated those moments of quietness, gentleness and noble, feminine pride and elegance like no other soprano before and after her. This release of her "Spanish Songs" has never been surpassed. The songs of her homeland seem to have been written for her beautiful instrument alone, she fills every piece with special beauty and charm, religious flair and beautiful, noble simplicity. Buy this recording and see why Victoria is one of the best sopranos ever having come from Spain.

PURCHASE THIS JEWEL WHILE YOU CAN.......2002-01-08

FOR A LONG TIME "SONGS OF SPAIN" HAS BEEN MY FAVORITE ALBUM OF CLASSICAL, POPULAR, SECULAR AND RELIGIOUS (CHRISTIAN AND SEPHARDIC) SPANISH SONGS. DE LOS ANGELES DEFIES A RIVAL IN THIS GENRE. DE LARROCHA, SORIANO AND ZANETTI PROVIDE UNEQUALED ACCOMPANIEMENTS. THE RECORDINGS ARE SECOND ONLY TO LIFE PERFORMANCES. I UNDERSTAND THAT EMI INTENDS TO TAKE THIS SET OUT OF PUBLICATION. PURCHASE THIS JEWEL WHILE YOU CAN! I JUST PURCHASED MY THIRD SET FROM AMAZON AND I TREASURE IT AS MUCH AS MY FIRST!

luminous artistry from a genius.......2000-12-26

the vocal artist of vocal artistsdisplays her absolutely gorgeous voice and musical understanding of spanish feeling with a warmth that is unmatched anywhere.the only thing better was to hear her in person!

A special Dignity and an Unfailing Beauty of Voice........2000-09-17

This set offers four generously-filled CDs comprising almost 140 Spanish songs from Victoria de los Angeles' repertoire. To all of them she brings a special dignity and an unfailing beauty of voice. The earliest recordings date from 1950 and the last is the items she sang at the opening of the Barcelona Olympics in 1992. Yes, you will find the ubiquitous "Clavelitos!" here, and a later version of "La maya el ruisenor" from "Goyescas". The enclosed booklet provides illuminating notes by Lionel Salter, who also translated many of the texts which are also included. Accompanists include Gerald Moore and Alicia de Larrocha, and Victoria de Los Angeles provides a guitar accompaniment herself in one song. The last track of all, a zapateado from a zarzuela, recorded live in New York, must almost have brought the house down.

Average customer rating:

One of the most interesting and best recorded Early Music programs available
Ridiculously fine recording
Superb - if idiosyncratic - performances!!
Fabulous, exciting Baroque music
A joyous 17th century multicultural jam session!

Missa Mexicana
Andrew Lawrence-King , and The Harp Consort
Manufacturer: Harmonia Mundi Fr.
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Padilla: Music of the Mexican Baroque
Mexican Baroque
Masterpieces of Mexican Polyphony
Spanish Dances
El arte de fantasía

ASIN: B000068327
Release Date: 2002-10-08

Tracks:

Villancico: Canten dos jilguerillos (Francisco Escalada)
Kirie: [Missa Ego flos campi] (Juan Gutiirrez de Padilla)
Jacaras de la costa (Santiago de Murcia)
Xaacara: Los que fueren de buen gusto (Francisco de Vidales)
Gloria: [Missa Ego flos campi]
Corrente Italiana (Juan Cabanilles)
Xacara: A la xacara xacarilla (Juan Gutiirrez de Padilla)
Credo: [Missa Ego flos campi]
Cumbies (Santiago de Murcia)
Negrilla: A siolo flasiquiyo (Juan Gutiirrez de Padilla)
Sanctus [Missa Ego flos campi]
Marizapalos a lo humano: Marizapalos bajs una tarde (Anonymous: 17th-century Peru)
Marizapalos a lo divino: Serafin que con dulce harmonma (Joan Cererols)
Diferencias sobre marizapalos (Miguel Pirez de Zavala)
Agnus Dei [Missa Ego flos campi]
Guaracha: Convidando esta la noche (Juan Garcma de Zispedes)

Amazon.com

"New Spain" comes roaring to life on Missa Mexicana. The disc's mainstay is a Mass setting by Juan Gutiiérez de Padilla, who was appointed maestro de capella at Mexico's Puebla Cathedral in 1629. Although Padilla was born in Andalucía, his work came to embrace Mexico: the rhythms of its dances, the exuberance of its song, and the textures of its popular instrumental ensembles (complete with guitars, percussion, and shawms). Padilla was not a pioneer in this regard; at the time, Spain's sacred music was also greatly influenced by secular sounds. But perhaps the greatest draw of this repertoire, as Andrew Lawrence-King shows off so well, is the tight interweaving of European, Native, and African cultures in Padilla's Mexico, and how he and his contemporaries utilized all of these cultural streams in their own work. Bolstered by an array of other compositions of the age, Lawrence-King makes a strong case for 17th-century Mexico as a cultural crossroads, not merely as a remote outpost of Spanish influence. One prime example is Santiago de Murcia's "Cumbées," with its call-and-response vocals, delicate, mbira-like instrumental interlude, and earthy drumbeat recalling West African music. Another is Padilla's own Christmastime negrilla, "A siolo flasiquiyo," which invites worshipers to dance the guacambe, canario, and villano to celebrate the Messiah's coming. As on his other recordings, harpist and conductor Andrew Lawrence-King has brought together a host of today's most respected early music specialists for this trip to Mexico, including soprano Ellen Hargis, bass Paul Hillier, and gamba player Hille Perl. Lawrence-King himself performs on the Spanish harp, organ, and psaltery. As one might expect from such a gathering, the ensemble is top notch, in both technical expertise and musicianship. The singers (and instrumentalists) are equally comfortable in both Missa Mexicana's religious and earthly spheres, moving from a Gloria to a bawdy song with ease. --Anastasia Tsioulcas

Customer Reviews:

One of the most interesting and best recorded Early Music programs available.......2006-09-26

This program performed by Andrew Lawrence-King and the Harp Consort is built around Juan Gutierrez de Padilla's (c. 1590-1664) Missa Ego flos campi. Padilla served as maestro of the Puebla Cathedral in Mexico from 1629 until his death, the choir of which was considered to be finest in all of Spain's colonies.

On this release, Andrew Lawrence-King has paired each of the Mass' five movements with one or more dance pieces either composed by Padilla or another contemporary composer. This purpose of this approach is to bring together Padilla's vibrant Mass, which itself is permeated with dance elements, with the actual dance pieces (ex: villancicos) that influenced Padilla. In addition to impacting the style of Padilla's sacred works, such dance pieces were actually included on church programs in 17th-century Mexico. Church authorities were a bit ambivalent about the inclusion of such dance pieces on church programs, as they were seen as being "excessively arousing" by some, but others noted that such pieces brought people into church which would not otherwise attend.

Despite being relatively unknown today, Padilla was obviously a first-rate composer. What makes his music remarkably fascinating is how naturally he combines Spanish and Italian stylistic elements with the harmonies and rhythms of the New World, in addition to African music brought to Central America by slaves. Padilla's "Negrilla" (Track 10) for instance, incorporates African rhythms and drums with elements of the European Renaissance. The end result is mesmerizing, especially the complicated and thrilling conclusion. The "A la xácara xacarilla" (Track 7) combines native percussion instruments with a bajón (precursor to the bassoon) and guitars in an intoxicating dance melody. The vocalists in particular do an outstanding job in breathing life into this piece through their enthusiastic and characteristic singing. The final piece on the program, the "Guaracha," itself alone is worth the price of the CD. More than being "excessively arousing" this piece, employing virtually every music instrument known, is downright exhilarating.

The ensemble performing this music is incredibly varied, and includes a large contingent of Mexican baroque guitars, a sackbut, a shawm, a Spanish harp and a percussion section consisting of all types of drums, a rainstick and even a conch shell. The vocalists and instrumentalists provide very enthusiastic and characteristic performances. The sound quality here is audiophile quality.

In short, this disc belongs in any collection of Early Music, but those out there who are not fans of the genre would find much to like here as well. This is fantastic music, which is marvelously performed and recorded. A winner on all accounts.

Highest recommendation!!

TT: 69:11

***
As a side note, those who are enthusiastic about this CD should also check out the Villancicos y Danzas Criollas released by Alia Vox and Moon, Sun & All Things released by Hyperion.

Ridiculously fine recording.......2006-09-18

At the risk of exposing myself as a true music dork I'm happy to say that I am inspired by the amount of scholarship behind this recording! More important however is that the music making on this disc cannot be accused of being too dry. No, Andrew Lawrence-King and his Harp Concert et.al. are obviously excited about this program. Their enthusiasm is contagious. The balance between sacred, secular and instrumental provides a great overview of 17th century Spanish music of the New World. This is the type of recording you can listen to from start to finish and then repeat. Highly recommended.

Superb - if idiosyncratic - performances!!.......2005-05-23

New-World [Hispanic] music from the 16th-18th centuries has experienced something of a renaissance in recent years, and a number of excellent recordings have been released, of which this is indeed a superlative example. Andrew Lawrence-King and the Harp Consort present a vividly atmospheric programme which is centred around the Missa Ego Flos Campi by one of the leading composers of the period, Juan Gutierrez de Padilla (c.1590-1664), the maestro de capilla at Puebla Cathedral. Padilla's Mass is complemented with examples of secular music by his contemporaries - villancicos, xacaras, etc.

In truth, it is perhaps difficult to know how representative of 17th century Mexico this recording is, and for the purist there are certain issues which may raise a few eyebrows...[Padilla's 42-part choir is reduced to a handful of soloists; Santiago de Murcia's 'Cumbees' - primarily intended for guitar - are arranged for harp and interspersed with pseudo-African scat-syllabic improvisations, rendering the notated 'golpes' practically inaudible; Juan Cabanilles' 'Corrente Italiana' - originally for organ - is transfered to a continuo group of harp, bajon, guitars and percussion; etc....]

Yet given the strength of the performances, these musicological quibbles perhaps loose their significance. These are truly stylish interpretations combining flair with panache, and the line up includes some excellent (and well-known) exponents of early music.

Incidentally, if you've enjoyed this recording, you should also explore similar (if not even better - if that's possible!) ones by Jordi Savall & Hesperion XXI ['Villancicos y danzas criollas', Alia Vox AV9834] and Gabriel Garrido & Ensemble Elyma [in particular 'Fiesta Criolla', K617139 and 'Juan de Araujo - L'Or et L'Argent du Haut-Perou', K617124].

Fabulous, exciting Baroque music.......2005-02-02

The title says it all. I cannot add to the other laudatory reviews. Pay no attention whatsoever to the negative review. The writer obviously has no comprehension of what music is about. This is fabulous Baroque music with Latin and African flavoring. We who love Baroque music are indebted to to Mr. Andrew Lawrence-King for making this music available to us. I truly love the European Baroque and own a great many CDs of it, including some of the lesser known names. But it is truly wonderful to expand one's horizons into a hitherto little known area of Baroque music. I am enriched by it and I know you will be also.

A joyous 17th century multicultural jam session!.......2004-01-28

With 'Missa Mexicana' Andrew Lawrence-King and The Harp Consort provide one of the most joyous and thought-provoking discs of early music around. For an album that is 'crossover' in the best sense of the word, they take a 17th century mass by a Mexican composer and juxtapose it with the popular music that inspired it. All of this music is gorgeous, earthy, elegant, sensuous and passionate. Not surprisingly considering that many of the pieces are dances, it will undoubtedly set your toes tapping as well as have you humming. In addition to the standard harps, gambas, bass viols, etc., that one would expect from music of this period, The Harp Consort also includes Mexican guitars, bajons, and even a conch and a rain stick! The playing and the singing are superb, and Lawrence-King not only directs the ensemble but provides wonderful accompaniment on the harp and psaltery. The sheer joy everyone brings to the performance makes it seem like a particularly successful jam session, even though it is obvious just how much hard work and research has been put into it.

Mexico in the 1600s was a rich mixture of ethnic groups and cultures, and its music reflects this. The main influence is Spanish Renaissance polyphony (Spain at this time was in its musical golden age - the 'siglo d'oro'), but there is also help from Portuguese immigrants, Native Mexicans (Mayan), and Africans from the Ivory Coast, Guinea, and Puerto Rico. As well, there is constant tension between the sacred and secular worlds.

The core of this recording is a 'parody mass' (that is, the polyphony has been reconstructed from previously written motets) by Juan Gutierrez de Padilla, a Spanish composer who emigrated to Mexico and became the choir director of the Cathedral in Puebla in 1629. This work is radiant and lighthearted and although more formal than the other music on this disc, is still heavily influenced by dance rhythms. Unlike in many mass settings, phrases such as 'bonae voluntatis', 'credo' and 'confiteor' are repeated as refrains. The accompaniment is also rather spare, relying primarily on guitars with occasional percussion. Each section of the mass is surrounded by popular songs and dances of the time which have lyrics based on religious themes, as was often done at the time to delight the worshipers - and assure their church attendance!

Two tenors sing of goldfinches singing softly to the infant sun in 'Canten los jilguerillos', the vilancico (popular dance) that begins the CD. We later hear examples of one of the most popular musical forms of this time - the xacara, a particular type of vilancico normally in D minor and sung in backstreet Madrid dialects. 'Jacaras de costa', which includes the aforementioned conch shell and rain stick, is an instrumental variation in a major key and has the same theme as the vocal 'Los de queren de bon gusto' which it leads into. Like 'A la xacara xacarilla', this xacara, with the singers egging each other on ('vaya, vaya!' or 'vaya pues!') to keep dancing and adding more verses, is as much about the pleasure of making music ('Look at my nice new xacara which I will sing in Bethlehem!') as it is about the religious symbolism expressed within.

Another common style was the Marizapalos, a romance which could have either a secular or sacred theme. 'Marizapalos a lo humano', a bawdy song about a priest's niece who goes to meet her lover, is full of sexual innuendo, but elevates physical love into something holy. In contrast 'Marizapalos a lo divino' speaks of the divine harmony of the seraphim and has a melody very reminiscent of the main theme from Joaquin Rodrigo's 'Fantasia alla gentilhombre' - I wouldn't be surprised if it was one of Rodrigo's sources! There is also a lovely instrumental variation ('Diferencias sobre marizapalos') on this theme.

Some of the most interesting music on this disc doesn't have obviously 'Hispanic' origins. The 'Corriente Italiano', a broad, elegant and courtly instrumental dance of Italian origin, is made Spanish by syncopation, and is my favorite track on the disc. From Africa come 'Cumbees', a call and response (variations on the word 'cumbe') puctuated by heavy drums, and the negrilla, 'A siolo flasiquiyo' depicts a group of African musicians who are celebrating the baby Jesus, but have to be careful to not play so loud that they wake Him! Some of the lyrics here are admittedly a bit too 'minstrel show' for 21st century audiences, but the music is still gorgeous, particularly the exuberant refrain 'Tumbucutu, cutu, cutu'.

The CD comes to a breathtaking finish with the guaracha 'Convidando esta noche', where the final, ecstatic 'Ay, ay, ay!' will linger long after it ends.

The thick booklet is illustrated with skeletons to recall the Mexican 'Day of the Dead' tradition, and contains full Latin and Spanish texts and English and French translations, as well as websites if you want other languages. Lawrence-King contributes an essay detailing the historical background and structure of the music and lyrics. There is also a CD insert that indicates which musicians are playing in which selections, although it is a pity they do not identify the actual INSTRUMENTS played, as each musician plays several.

'Missa Mexicana' is music-making of the highest integrity and not to be missed. In addition to adventurous classical music lovers, I would also recommend this disc to people coming from the 'other side', that is those who may not be particularly fond of classical music but who like more 'traditional' Mexican and Latin American sounds. Either way, this is one of the most original, imaginative, and fun discs I've heard in a long time, and it deserves to be a huge bestseller.

Secular Music from Christian and Jewish Spain
Average customer rating:

Like a religious experience

Dissappointing soprano

A balm for any soul

Ten stars if possible...

Historical re-release

Secular Music from Christian and Jewish Spain

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
General | Renaissance (c.1450-1600) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
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Sephardic Romances

Music for the Spanish Kings

The Splendour of Al-Andalus

Mudejar

Spanish Music of Travel and Discovery/ The Waverly Consort

ASIN: B00000J2QD
Release Date: 1999-06-08

Tracks:

Villancicos From Cancionero de la Colombina: Ni?a y vi?a
Villancicos From Cancionero de la Colombina: Propide melyor
Villancicos From Cancionero de la Colombina: Como no le andaro
Villancicos From Cancionero de la Colombina: Recercada
Villancicos From Cancionero de la Colombina: Fantasia
Villancicos From Cancionero de la Colombina: Pavana
Villancicos From Cancionero de Palacio: Al alva venid, buen amigo
Villancicos From Cancionero de Palacio: Perda mi rrueca
Villancicos From Cancionero de Palacio: A los badel amor
Villancicos From Cancionero de Palacio: Fantasia
Villancicos From Cancionero de Palacio: Romanesca
Villancicos From Cancionero de Palacio: Pues bien para esta
Villancicos From Cancionero de Palacio: Si av dicho, marido
Romances From Cancionero de Palacio: Si d'amor pena sent
Romances From Cancionero de Palacio: O voy
Romances From Cancionero de Palacio: Qu'es de ti, desconsolado
Recercadas sobre tenores: Recercada 4
Recercadas sobre tenores: Recercada 5
Recercadas sobre tenores: Recercada 6
Villancicos From Cancionero de Uppsala: Yo me soy la morenica
Villancicos From Cancionero de Uppsala: Si la nocha haze escura
Villancicos From Cancionero de Uppsala: Soleta s ac
Villancicos From Cancionero de Uppsala: Con qua lavar
Villancicos From Cancionero de Uppsala: Soy serranica

Tracks:

Sephardic Romaces: Pregoneros van y vienen
Sephardic Romaces: El rey de Francia tres hijas tenia
Sephardic Romaces: Una matica de Ruda
Sephardic Romaces: Palestina hermoza
Sephardic Romaces: Nani, nani
Sephardic Romaces: El rey que tanto madruga
Sephardic Romaces: Por que llorax blanca nina
Sephardic Romaces: Moricos los mis moricos
Sephardic Romaces: Lavava y suspirava
Sephardic Romaces: Paxarico tu te llamas
Sephardic Romaces: La Reina xerifa mora
Sephardic Romaces: Por alli paso un cavallero

Amazon.com

Before their expulsion in 1492, the Jews of medieval Spain developed a rich and lively culture, including an exquisite repertory of songs called romanceros--and they kept that repertory alive as they settled in places as diverse as Morocco, Bosnia, Turkey, and Bulgaria. Lovely as the romanceros are, they would have languished as the objects of ethnomusicological studies and might have disappeared altogether, were it not for the efforts of gifted musicians like Hespèrion XX. Jordi Savall and his ensemble, fronted by the unique soprano Montserrat Figueras, just about single-handedly brought those songs to the attention of the modern public with this 1976 recording (now reissued at a bargain price). Disc 1 features a selection of secular music from "Christian" Spain--that is, the courts of Ferdinand and Isabella and the Catholic nobility. The music is elegant and occasionally austere, but Figueras, Savall, and colleagues give the livelier pieces a flavorful swing. Yet disc 2, which features the Sephardic songs, is the real drawing card here. It was in Moorish Spain that Jewish culture flourished, so Hespèrion XX performs the romanceros with Arabic instruments, such as the 'ud (the ancestor of the European lute) and hand drums. These musicians, rechristened Hespèrion XXI in honor of the new century, perform this repertory with more polish now than they did in 1976, but--just as A Feather on the Breath of God did for Hildegard von Bingen--this recording made its own little bit of musical history. --Matthew Westphal

Customer Reviews:

Like a religious experience.......2007-03-28

This disc is pure magic that transends and defies definition. It is time period music that has been rereleased to capture the magic of the original recording. Each song is amazing. The music creates a mood that is best enjoyed alone ,in private so that your thoughts can be elevated to the point of inspiration. Although I like both discs I prefer the one that features Sephardic Romances over the disc that is Court Music and Songs. Montserrat Figueras angelic voice lends itself to beautiful interpretations of these beautiful songs from the Age before the expulsion of the Jews from Spain in 1492. This ancient music is preserved and freshly interpreted under the masterful leadership of Jordi Savall for an authentic recreation. If you have never heard Hesperion XX check this one out, it is fantastic. Recommended for classical music fans who want to hear something different. Once you hear Montserrat Figuerras voice you will feel the inspiration and be hooked on her angelic voice.

Dissappointing soprano.......2006-02-22

I was excitet buying this CD, expecting the quality of songs equal or better than
Begona Olavide and Carlos Paniagua on MA recodings. The music was fine but singing by soprano Montserrat Figueras was borderline annoying.

A balm for any soul.......2001-01-02

Attempting to review a Savall/Figueras CD is a frustrating task. The arsenal of superlatives is so quickly depleted. Terms like 'matchless' and 'unique' might be used, but lack strict definition. After all, a 'matchless' voice needn't be a good one. Terms like 'divine' or 'angelic' tend to remove Montserrat's singing from the real and human. She's nothing if not human. Having been blessed with watching as well as hearing her perform, vouching for her vitality on a stage is easy. But the superior quality of her voice and presentation is so far above the mundane or common as to become nearly indescribable. Anything less than adulation for her seems to indicate shortcomings in the disk or performer. Neither performance nor disk quality falls short here. That she performs religious songs here simply adds to the power of her impact on the listener. You necessarily hesitate, cease other activity, and, if moved enough, drop to your knees in respect and admiration. Tough to do in a crowded concert hall, but the motivation is there. And this from someone who shunned listening to vocal performances for many years. Dame Kiri was one exception and Argenta another, but the discovery of Figueras was the discovery of a voice without flaw.

Anyone visiting this page must certainly know of Jordi Savall and Hesperion XX. You may, however, have missed the glory of Montserrat Figueras' voice. Make up for that lack right away. The selections available here are pitifully limited, but this CD is as good an introduction as any. Don't hesitate to sit and enjoy this music. The sounds received will be a reward to whatever spiritual sense you possess.

Ten stars if possible..........2000-01-27

I agree completely with Stephan: outstanding performance. Montserrat at her best. If "Si d'amor pena sentis" doesn't bring tears to your eyes, what does?

Historical re-release.......1999-07-20

Hesperion XX were pioneers in reviving this music, and collectors will value these recordings which first came out in 1976. However most listeners may prefer more recent recordings by Wimmer on Naxos, and Alia Musica on Harmonia Mundi which have digital sound and include Spanish, and occasionally Hebrew, texts and translations.

Average customer rating:

Brava Berganza! A Birthday Tribute

Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Release Date: 2005-04-12

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Magnificent!

Missa Mexicana

Manufacturer: Harmonia Mundi Fr.
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Dvorák: Cello Concerto [Hybrid SACD]
Tchaikovsky Violin Concerto (Hybr)

ASIN: B0000B003N
Release Date: 2003-10-14

Customer Reviews:

Magnificent!.......2003-11-20

Beautiful music, the players clearly enjoying themselves in a breathtaking performance. Superb!!
SACD sound is much more natural than the CD layer!

Average customer rating:

Una Noche Con Pepe
Pepe Tovar y los Chacales
Manufacturer: Joey International
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Mexico | International | Styles | Music
ASIN: B0000CDL4Y
Release Date: 2003-08-12

Tracks:

Intro
Chuyita
Sentimiento de Dolor
Nos Estorbo La Ropa
Limosnero
Lobo Herido
Me Vas a Extra
Ejida Tario
En Cada Vida
Corazon Majico
Piensa Morena
Intro
Ya Me Voy Para Siempe
Caminos de Guanajuato

Average customer rating:

Una Noche Con Felipe
felipe dulzaides y su cuarteto
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD
ASIN: B000OKREPK

Product Description

1 1 1- SI ALGUIEN 1 2 2- YOU DESERVE 1 3 3- LA SITIERA 1 4 4- ANDALUCIA 1 5 5- JUEGO DE AMOR 1 6 6- DRUME NEGRITA 1 7 FRENESI 1 8 8- CUANDO VUELVA A TU LADO 1 9 9- AT LAST 1 10 10- CHA CHA CHA CONTINENTAL