Obsession

Track Listings

1. Modern Africa

2. Obsession

3. Love Connection

4. One Night Lover

5. Muscle Up

6. Museum of Love

7. Love Encore

8. This Inspiration

9. So Many Hills to Climb

10. Global Harmony

11. Fighting for Truth and Rights

12. Siddung 'Pon Money

13. Livin' in the Jungle

14. Give the Children Education

15. Tomorrow Will Be Better

16. African Princess

17. Line of King David

18. Full Moon in the Desert

Average customer rating:

Amazing! Must have!
My New Obsession...
Absolute Love.
Love this CD!
Wow!!!!

This Is Where You Belong
The Summer Obsession
Manufacturer: Virgin Records Us
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

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Step Outside Yourself
Brace Yourself
Don't You Fake It
Albatross
When Your Heart Stops Beating

ASIN: B000H1RFJ6
Release Date: 2006-08-29

Tracks:

8 AM
Disappear
Never Coming Back
Death Said
Melt Sugar
Burning Bridges
Bored
Do You Remember
Over My Head
Down For Whatever
I Miss You
Where You Belong

Customer Reviews:

Amazing! Must have!.......2006-09-15

These guys are a GREAT new band with some awesome talent packed behind them. With this CD they have the same good demo songs, and the awesome new ones mixed perfectly! I love the flow of the album and I find myself constantly dancing around to this whenever I have it on. Even if it's at 8 in the morning. =)

My New Obsession..........2006-09-14

..is The Summer Obsession!

I've been waiting the longest time for their debut cd "This Is Where You Belong" to come out,and it was well worth it!!The song "Melt the Sugar" was-and still is-a favorite of mine.

Good job,boys.The wait was well worth it!

Absolute Love........2006-09-13

I listened to one song and absolutly fell in love with The Summer Obsession. So I HAD to have their cd. It's the kind of band that if you need a "pick-me-up". Just listen to one of their songs and it sets you in a good mood. And just to let you know it's not one of those cds where you hear one song love it and end up disliking the rest of the cd. You will love the whole cd, every song is different. They have amazing talents in what they do.

Love this CD!.......2006-09-13

I must have listened to this CD, "This is where you belong" - a hundred times since I bought it. Everytime I listen I find something new that I like about it. It is not everyday that you buy a CD that you love every song...and that every song sounds different from the others. These guys write and produce great music! You got to go out and buy it!!!!!!

Wow!!!!.......2006-09-13

The album is of course amazing, but for those of you who don't know. The album is absolutely amazing. Get it for your children, or for yourself. My mom loves it, so you may too. lol. The debut single Do You Remember can relate to many teens, and help them out. And its inspired by real people. My favorite song is Do You Remember. Its the first song I skip my cd to, and listen to with the top down. All the songs are amaazing. Can't have just one(favorite)!

Average customer rating:

UFO Obsession
The Final Masterpiece
classic rock at its finest
THEY JUST KEEP COMING AGAIN!
Schenker's last studio album w/UFO for 15 years!!

Obsession
UFO
Manufacturer: Caroline
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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General | Rock | Styles | Music

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Lights Out
Force It
Phenomenon
No Heavy Petting
Strangers in the Night

ASIN: B00002599V
Release Date: 2007-07-17

Tracks:

Only You Can Rock Me
Pack It Up (And Go)
Arbory Hill
Ain't No Baby
Lookin' Out For No 1
Hot 'N' Ready
Cherry
You Don't Fool Me
Lookin' Out For No. 1 (Reprise)
One More For The Rodeo
Born To Lose

Album Description

Digitally remastered reissue of the British metal group's 1978 album for Chrysalis. Features the original cover art & all 11 of the cuts that first appeared on it. 1999 release.

Customer Reviews:

UFO Obsession.......2007-03-08

Quite possibly the best of ALL time ... of any rock recording. I have most of their albums and still over the years I would break them out and listen to them (timeless). It only takes listening to it a few times, and your hooked. In my opinion, the three best in order are: Obsession, Lights Out, and Phenomenon ... the other are still good (some great) but they (UFO) would never top these three.

The Final Masterpiece.......2007-02-14

In terms of studio output this album signified the end of the "classic line up" to the dismay of myself and many young rock fans back in the late seventies. But what a masterpiece they recorded to bow out with! The general consensus amongst reviewers seem to agree that these heights were not reached again until this line up reformed for "Walk on Water". The guitar work really soars especially on "Ain't No Baby" and "Lookin' Out for No. 1" without being over indulgent. "Hot 'n' Ready" really rocks and "Cherry" is yet another showpiece for Moggy's lyrics and vocals. Although not one of my personal favourites "Only You Can Rock Me" finally gave UFO credible chart success and a commercial rock anthem to rival "Doctor Doctor". All round fabulous must have UFO album.

classic rock at its finest.......2006-11-07

UFO at the top of their game. I have recently been listening to my collection of UFO classics. The entire collection is excellent,however, I feel this and "lights Out" are the most consistent. Every song is notable. If you like powerful, catchy, hard driving rock with the perfect mix of melody and power, then this CD is for you. This CD rewards multiple listens. Indeed, I appreciate it more now than I did twenty-eight years ago, when I first purchased it and the sound of this remastered version is a vast improvement over the earlier CD reissue.

THEY JUST KEEP COMING AGAIN!.......2006-03-16

I feel like saluting when Schenker rips his guitar on "Only You Can Rock Me" how majestic! The entire album is clear and crisp! By the time they laid this album down they were studio savvy and very polished. Obsession was over-looked on most of their live stuff but maybe that was for a reason. A hidden masterpiece to be found by the lucky few. Unlike most of today's music, the songs on this album never get old. Original and dynamic are only a couple ways to describe UFOs music. Obsession is a classic and a must-have in any respectible collection. I can assure you that when I'm old and grey I will still be losing myself in the fantastic music of UFO! ONLY YOU CAN ROCK ME!

Schenker's last studio album w/UFO for 15 years!!.......2005-12-23

This album rocks! Plain & Simple.

This was the studio album that UFO toured to make the live "Strangers In The Night" double album the following year.

A good place to start for Michael Schenker era UFO.

I still don't know why more of this album was not included in the live "Strangers In The Night" (although they did include Cherry and Hot & Ready in the reissue).

More Of The Most Relaxing Classical Music In The Universe

Average customer rating:

Better than most
Wonderful Music

More Of The Most Relaxing Classical Music In The Universe
Ludwig van Beethoven , Eugene-Auguste Ysaye , Johann Sebastian Bach , Jean Sibelius , Sergey Prokofiev , Jules Massenet , Anonymous , Fryderyk Chopin , Giacomo Puccini , Robert Schumann , Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky , Kazuo Yamada , Claude Debussy , Felix Mendelssohn , Carl Maria von Weber , Enrique Granados , Gustav Holst , and Various Artists
Manufacturer: Denon Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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The Most Relaxing Classical Music in the Universe
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Most Relaxing Classical Piano Music in the Universe
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ASIN: B0000AINLR
Release Date: 2003-08-12

Tracks:

RACHMANINOFF Piano Concerto #2, Adagio
VERDI Preludio
PAGANINI "Introduzione e tema con variazioni"
BRAHMS Sonata for two pianos, Andante
MOZART Adagio in E Major
BEETHOVEN "Pathetique" Sonata, Adagio
YSAYE Sonate #2, "Malinconia"
BACH Prelude #22, Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I
VERDI "Quando le sere al placido" (When the Evening Becomes Peaceful)
BACH Orchestral Suite #2
SIBELIUS The Swan of Tuonela
PROKOFIEV Romeo and Juliet
MASSENET Meditation from "Tha
RACHMANINOFF Prelude

Tracks:

TRADITIONAL Catalonian Folk Song
CHOPIN Piano Concerto #1, Larghetto
PUCCINI "Crisantemi" (Chrysanthemums)
SCHUMANN "Traumerei" (Dreaming)
TCHAIKOVSKY Swan Lake (excerpt)
K. YAMADA ''Chugoku-Chiho No Komoriuta" Lullaby
DEBUSSY "En Bateau" (By Boat)
BEETHOVEN Symphony #6 "Pastoral", Andante
MENDELSSOHN Songs Without Words
WEBER Introduction, theme and variations
GRANADOS "Goyescas" (Sketches on the works of Goya)
TCHAIKOVSKY Nocturne in F
HOLST The Planets, "Neptune"

Customer Reviews:

Better than most.......2007-02-08

This is a good mixture of elevator music, and some soft relaxing melodies.

Wonderful Music.......2007-01-18

Wonderful music for your listening pleasure. Very relaxing and soothing. Nothing beats classical music.

Hard to Find Orchestral Instrumentals II

Average customer rating:

A Slight Innacuracy
Excelente
Hard to Find Orchestral Instrumentals, Vol. 2
Not totally an instrumental
Another Collection You Wonr Find Anywhere else

Hard to Find Orchestral Instrumentals II

Manufacturer: Eric Collection
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B00008L3O0
Release Date: 2003-04-22

Tracks:

Gonna Fly Now (Theme From 'Rocky') - Bill Conti
Theme From 'Ben Casey' - Valjean
Theme From 'The Apartment' - Ferrante & Teicher
The Long Ships (Part 1) - Charles Albertine (mono)
The Day The Rains Came - Raymond Lefevre (mono)
Beautiful Obsession - Sir Chauncey
Theme From 'The Sundowners'- Felix Slatkin
Chariot (I Will Follow Him) - Franck Pourcel
That's The Way With Love - Peter Soffici (mono)
Theme From 'The Dark At The Top Of The Stairs' - Percy Faith
Theme From 'A Man And A Woman' (from The Soundtrack) - Francis Lai
Route 66 Theme - Nelson Riddle
Moonglow & Theme From 'Picnic' - George Cates (mono)
Swinging Sweethearts - Ron Goodwin (mono)
Ringo's Theme (This Boy) - George Martin
Song For Anna (Chanson D'Anna) - (Herb) Ohta-San
Nadia's Theme (The Young & The Restless) - Barry Devorzon & Perry Botkinc Jr.
Danny Boy - Sil Austin
Trumpeter's Prayer - Tutti Camarata
One Moment In Time - Vienna Symphonic Orchestra (VSOP)

Album Description

A spectacular follow-up to Volume One in this instrumental series featuring 15 songs that have never been on a U.S. CD before. But this set isn't just for collectors, but also for listeners. All recordings have been digitally mastered from the original master tapes & are in True Stereo wherever possible. Includes a full 8-page booklet with detailed liner notes on each song.

Customer Reviews:

A Slight Innacuracy.......2007-06-13

The version of "Nadia's Theme" (Theme from The Young and the Restless) isn't actually the one you're expecting. I believe it's actually the original arrangement made for "Bless the Beasts and the Children". So what later became the Young and the Restless theme (the one that was a hit) still remains unreleased on CD.

Hopefully, we can see that version on a future release. Maybe they could get "Little Ballerina Blue" on one while they're at it.

Still, some great stuff here.

Excelente .......2007-03-22

El tema de nadia es una de las canciones mas excelentes de la historia de la musica

Hard to Find Orchestral Instrumentals, Vol. 2.......2006-03-22

The purchase went as we had hoped. The delievry was as promised, and the quality of the product equal too, or above our expectations.

Not totally an instrumental.......2006-03-10

I was excited to find this album. I bought it but was horrified to find a loud vocal on the first track. The rest of the music is all instrumental but this one track simply JARS you when it plays. Very disappointing!

Another Collection You Wonr Find Anywhere else.......2003-05-06

Well, ERIC records has done it again.

Continuing their unique practice of giving us both well known hits and impossible to find rarities, Eric presents Volume 2 of "Hard to Find Orchestral Instrumentals". This one is, in my opinion, even better than the first.

First off, the sound quality of this disk is ASTOUNDING. ERIC has gotten the various reissue departments to provide them with absolute first generation mono and stereo masters and this CD proves it. The aural quality is breathtaking. The fact that Orchestral music is so beautifully suited for true stereo playback is exhibited here, as a whopping 15 of the 20 tracks are True Stereo and sound magnificent.

There are, of course, the big soundtrack hits here, like 'The Day The Rains Came" "Rocky", "Ben Casey", "Theme from The Apartment", and " Nadias Theme". All top 30 and well remembered. However, for this 43 year old fan, it was the some of the lessor known tracks, in particulatr the 1963 Colpix low level charter "Theme From The Long Ships" that really makes this collection the gem that it is. Outstanding tracks include "Theme From The Sundowners" , "The Dark At The Top of The Stairs" and "I Will Follow Him" , all tracks that will suddenly sound familiar again after first listen.

Therein lies the BEST part of this collection. When you put this on your player, you will be treated to a nostalgic feast,
a time when the magic of Orchestral music still ruled the charts, and existed in all our homes. And you'll certainly remember most of these once you hear them, which is the fun part!!

There arent enough great things I can say about this collection AND its sister CD "Hard To Find pop Instrumentals- Part 2" I personally liked this volume better, but if you dont have either yet, give yourself a musical treat, and some REAL listening enjoyment and pick these up...

Its listening the way it used to be.

Tracks:

Cancion Triste - Jesse Cook
Loving You - Oscar Lopez
Suenos De Una Guitarra - Chuscales
Night In The South (Noche En El Sur) - Jose Luis Encinas
In The Hands Of Love - Ottmar Liebert
Cathedral Bells (Homenaje A Ruby) - Ruben Romero
Space Flamenco - Energipsy
Abundance - Govi
Carino - Chris Spheeris
Ritmos Flamenco - Armik
Tigris Palace - NovaMenco
Pozo Del Deseo - Songhai

Amazon.com

Obsession features some of the finest flamenco-style pickers, including the enormously popular New Age artist Ottmar Liebert. While Liebert's nuevo flamenco has been called the equivalent of flamenco-lite by critics and the genre's purists, in his drum- and keyboard-supplemented rounded chord progressions there is an easy, accessible charm that appeals to a more mainstream audience. Cast alongside the work of the fiery Jesse Cook, the old-world beauty of Oscar Lopez, and others, Liebert and company offer up a recording of sensual and emotive grace, to be enjoyed as accompaniment to a romantic interlude, a reflective solo bath soak, or as inspiration while stirring paella. The standout is Obsession's opening number, Cook's "Cancion Triste," which sets the scene with its textured, sweeping cinematic beauty and splendidly woebegone cello line. --Paige La Grone

Customer Reviews:

Amazingly beautiful.......2005-10-25

This CD is one of the most relaxing and amazingly beautiful albums I have heard in a long time. Perfect for a romantic night at home or a relaxing massage at a spa.

Passionate and Hauntingly Beautiful.......2005-06-23

I have to recommend this CD to anyone who appreciates beautiful music that soothes the soul and ignites the heart. This CD takes you to another world. It is also perfect for setting the mood. Play it while soaking in the bath with wine and candles. Or just play it while lying in bed at night, relaxing. The haunting tones and passion that goes into the different tracks demonstrates the dedication of the artists featured. Each artist is true to the genre yet with a heat and style all their own. I recommend most on the CD #4 and #10. Makes you want to put on your best dress, and dance a passionate tango with a loved one (or by yourself!) I didn't know what to expect when I purchased it, thinking no one can top the Gipsy Kings. But I was pleasantly surprised and entranced by the music I heard flowing out of my radio. Everyone I have played it for wanted a copy or tried to steal it! It's worth the money, and the artists on the disk are phenomenal guitarists. If you have never listened to New Flamenco before, this is a great introduction. Each song is long enough, but still leaves you wanting more. I now am looking to buy the individual CD's from each artist, especially Jose Luis and Jesse Cook.

Love it.......2005-02-08

I bought this cd upon recommendation by the cd shopowner and have never regret it. Whilst most of the tracks are right on to it but i'm a bit disappointed with cook. However, it is worth buying.

Very Energetic!!.......2004-02-21

I purchased this CD at the recommendation of a friend...I have to admit I have nothing else like it, but I like to find something new and different. This is fun, and great music to cook dinner and entertain friends. It is spicy...energetic, yet has a hint of romance. Very enjoyable...it was worth the money and I know we shall listen to it often in the future.

A letdown.......2001-12-11

This collection features some well known names but the music is not up to par.The Cook,Armik,Govi and Lopez contributions are all mediocre at best, and Energipsy is just plain awful.There are two songs that redeem the album somewhat."Night in the south" by Jose Luis Encinas is very melancholy and brooding,and "Pozo Del Deseo" from Songhai 2 is a wonderful piece, so gorgeous and somber with the help of the angelic children's chorus and violin.Again Narada has put out another subpar collection.The label desperately needs some new people to come in and make better decisions in regards to compiling collections such as these.

Very Introspective, Actually - A Pet Shop Boys Tribute

Average customer rating:

It Stinks
It had its moments
Stick to the Originals
Two Thumbs Up but only 4 stars because it's not PSB
Great Here and There

Very Introspective, Actually - A Pet Shop Boys Tribute
Behind The Scenes , The Cruxshadows , Human Drama , Motormark , Endanger , Sweep , Athan Maroulis & Zeitmahl , Rhea's Obsession , Icon of Coil , Momus , Hungry Lucy , Cleaner , Nicole Blackman & John Van Eaton , and David J
Manufacturer: Dancing Ferret
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B00005JDCC
Release Date: 2007-07-16

Tracks:

It's a Sin - The Cruxshadows
Rent - Behind The Scenes
This Must Be the Place I've Waited Years to Leave - Human Drama
Opportunities - Fictional
Left to My Own Devices - Motormark
Suburbia - Endanger
Love Comes Quickly - Sweep
Heart - Athan Maroulis & Zeitmahl
What Have I Done to Deserve This? - Rhea's Obsession
New York City Boy - Icon of Coil
So Hard - Momus
Jealousy - Hungry Lucy
You Know Where You Went Wrong - Cleaner
West End Girls - Nicole Blackman & John Van Eaton
Being Boring - David J

Album Description

Why a tribute to artists still very much alive, well, and making records? The immediate cynical reply is commercialism, and let's be honest, what artist or record label wouldn't want to capitalize on the fan base and rich song catalogue of a band like The Pet Shop Boys? It seems almost inconceivable that this hasn't been done before, especially with the number of Depeche Mode tribute CDs in the double digits and climbing.

But with so many tribute CDs on the market - some paying homage to artists who barely have three albums under their belts - there is a growing consumer backlash against them. Too, it's hard for artists to know how best to approach these tributes. A faithful cover risks critical allegations that the artist has simply copied the song with no real vision employed, while a radical re-working will have fans clamoring that a musical classic has been butchered. It's a difficult tightrope to tread.

Still, everyone involved in this project has opted to walk that tightrope, and we're hopeful and confident that you in the audience will be entertained by the performance. Rest assured that this is not a thrown-together assembly line tribute, but something lovingly compiled over the better part of a year by a longtime PSB fan. We've even had the disc mastered at the same studio that mastered Nightlife as well as the recent re-issues to ensure the best sound quality.

Customer Reviews:

It Stinks.......2003-06-19

Unlike the mini cd by Unlimited Beat in 1990's this cd compilation of artists you've never heard of leaves much to be desired. Completely untrue to the spirit of the original songs with poor production value, I advise die hard PSB fans to let this one rot on the shelves. This rates up there with the abortive Erasure Tribute album that came out last year.

It had its moments.......2002-06-25

Being a huge fan of the Pet Shop Boys, I could not bring myself to give even a derivative work such as this a low rating. To be honest, many of the tracks are not worth listening to. But this tribute is priced low enough to make it worth it for the few solid and enjoyable tracks. Don't buy this unless you already have everything from the Pet Shop Boys as any of their albums or singles would be a better investment.

Stick to the Originals.......2002-04-15

Tribute albums are interesting for at least one of two reasons:
1) They provide worthwhile new interpretations of existing songs.
2) They confirm that the original singers were not merely fine songwriters, but also very good singers and/or arrangers.

Like the tribute album to Elton John, this definitely falls in the latter category.

Two Thumbs Up but only 4 stars because it's not PSB.......2002-04-05

After what I consider to be two huge disappointments - bilingual and nightlife (sounded way too gay for this straight couple); my wife and I found that we loved VERY INROSPECTIVE, ACTUALLY.

It has about the same hits on it as discography with a version of NYC Boy that is actually better on this CD than the original IMHO.

If you're a PSB Fan like we are, buy it, because we think it has been a nice way to be exposed to some talent we have not heard before; but through songs we know and love.

Just don't expect any of the songs to be sung in the same octave as the PSB..these are all baritones and tenors on this one.

Great Here and There.......2002-02-09

Im a PSB's fan and a Human Drama fan and I was skeptical of this cd, amazingly enough it is quite good. Im glad to see lot of the bands on here doing the songs in there own style. There are a few songs that disappointed me but for the most part it holds together nicely. And for those who say, "im the biggest PSB fan in the world," and then trash this cd, have you seen Pet Shop Boys live? That can be pretty embarrassing too.

Average customer rating:

Dancible from start to finish!
almost perfect collection of all their top 100 billboard hits
Looking for 'I Want You'? Try SAVAGE GARDEN instead
A collection-item for Baywatch-fans !
You'll be Obsessed with this one!

Obsession: The Best of Animotion
Animotion
Manufacturer: Polygram Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

New Wave | New Wave & Post-Punk | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

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ASIN: B000001EKI
Release Date: 1996-04-16

Tracks:

Obsession
Let Him Go
I Want You
I Engineer
Strange Behavior
Anxiety
Room To Move
Calling It Love
Obsession (12 Inch Remix Version)
Let Him Go (12 Inch Remix Version)
I Want You (12 Inch Remix Version)
I Engineer (12 Inch Remix Version)

Customer Reviews:

Dancible from start to finish!.......2007-07-16

Not bad for a one-hit wonder, they generously threw in four 12-inch remix versions, which of course includes "Obsession". A great time for those who know how to dance, and useful material maybe for those who dance competetively.

It's really too bad '80's music (which is my generation) didn't sound this good - I actually would have liked it.

almost perfect collection of all their top 100 billboard hits.......2005-08-19

Every top 100 hit is here, as well as remixes. Problem is, they left off the 12" version of Room to Move, which would have made this a complete final chapter in the recording history of this band in its two lineups. And if space was an issue, they coul have removed the "12 inch remix" of Obsession, which I believe was remixed a year or so later. The original album version included on this disc (5:35) is actually the "long" version. The remix (7:32) is overmixed and takes away the sexy feel of the original. Other 12" versions are Let Him Go (6:04) (good 12"), I Want you (6:49) (good 12"), and I Engineer (10:57) (a little long for a generally uninteresting song). Also note that the 7" version of Let Him Go is used on here--it has more synths thant the original album version, which was guitar heavy.

Looking for 'I Want You'? Try SAVAGE GARDEN instead.......2005-07-08

I bought OBSESSION for the title track, and I got it, along with some mild amusement that a forgettable song on this album bears the same name as the SAVAGE GARDEN track I'm quite fond of. That's about all the added value I got; only three of the other songs on here ("I Engineer", "Room to Move", "Calling It Love") manage to inspire me even to give them a second hearing, and their appeal is somewhat limited for me.

Out of 12 tracks on this album, the final four are remixed versions of the first four on the album. That is, one third of the songs on here are remixed versions of another third. *shakes head* This is not, upon reflection, a promising sign that if (as seems most likely) one is contemplating buying this album for a recording of "Obsession" that one will find unexpected treasures herein. Ah, well. I'm quite fond of "Obsession", even though it inspires recommendations engines to give me odd advice sometimes regarding music they think I might like, so I've erred on the side of generosity in rating the album.

Warning: I don't have a lot of use for heavy percussion, especially if it's concerned only with keeping tempo (shouldn't be necessary), and I'll be whinging about it in this review.

"Obsession" (from ANIMOTION (1984)) If one considers Animotion a one-hit wonder, this would be the reason why. "You are an obsession/I cannot sleep..."

"Let Him Go" (from ANIMOTION (1984)) and "I Want You" (from STRANGE BEHAVIOR) have similar percussion issues, namely that the drummer manages to nearly drown out the other instruments even though the percussion mostly involves hit-the-snare-on-the-beat. Stated another way, the other instruments' accompaniment is arranged at too low a volume, and isn't very interesting. Neither are the lyrics or the singers' performances, come to that.

"I Engineer" (from STRANGE BEHAVIOR) Too much bass drum (the piece would work just as well without any), but enough synthesizer to make the accompaniment tolerable. "Don't count on me - I engineer/on every move we make from here/I'll take the lead, you take the pain/You see, I engineer this game".

"Strange Behavior" (from STRANGE BEHAVIOR) Same issues as "Let Him Go" et al. "Coming from you, that's nothing but strange behavior". Apt line; the female vocalist is obviously deliberately attempting to lower the pitch of her voice for effect herein, and the result isn't impressive.

"Anxiety" (from STRANGE BEHAVIOR) Here we have a song where a transcript of the lyrics would've been of interest if it had been included with the CD. The percussion has been kept to a more reasonable level on this piece.

"Room to Move" (from ANIMOTION (1989)) is the only song other than "Obsession" that sounded familiar upon first listening to this album, though only the first few bars. The instrumental accompaniment is reasonably interesting. "That's all I need, that's all I ask for/Room to breathe/Room to move." (I didn't say the lyrics' *content* couldn't be made to sound silly, though.)

"Calling It Love" (from ANIMOTION (1989)) Much gentler song than the others on the album up to this point, dominated by keyboards initially, percussion kept in check. "I've been calling it love 'cause I want you to stay." This one might grow on you.

"Obsession (12 inch remix version)" Extended instrumental prologue. This isn't *bad*, but I prefer what I consider the original version (see above).

"Let Him Go (12 inch remix version)" and "I Want You (12 inch remix version)" don't appeal to me in their shorter forms, and still less with a couple of minutes added to each.

"I Engineer (12 inch remix version)" Hmm. A song originally clocked in at 4 minutes 14 seconds extended to 10 minutes 57 seconds? Why choose this song for that much extra attention instead of the better known "Obsession", if one accepts for the sake of argument that it's a worthwhile endeavour in the first place?

A collection-item for Baywatch-fans !.......2004-10-06

Also for Baywatch-fans this CD from Animotion
is a worth recommendation to their collection.
The CD contains the song "Room to move" that
was used for the Baywatch-episode "Heat Wave" (1989).
While hearing the song, you'll remember those two boys
heaving fun on and off the beach during a very
hot day.

If you are interested in songs that featured
on Baywatch, you can buy here on Amazon.com the Book: "Baywatch - Rescued from Prime Time". This book contains all credits from songs/artists (like Animotion),
that you can buy here on Amazon.com

The soundquality of this CD is excellent.

You'll be Obsessed with this one!.......2004-07-12

Obsession: The Best of Animotion contains all of the greatest hits in the animotion catalog. From the possesive "I Want You" and "Obsession" which hit the top ten in 1985 to the eerie and peculiar "Strange Behavior". This also contains the later Animotion hits "Room to Move"- a Lightwieght song seen in 'My Stepmother is an Alien'. Animotion boasts great instrumentals on the synthesiezer as well as guitars and drums, plus great vocals done by Bill Wadhams and Astrid Plane. As for the reviews below, Obsession: The Best of Animotion DOES contain "I Engineer" plus the "I Engineer [12" Remix]! The 12" remixes add new flavor to the first four songs. These remixes arent only rare, they're great! You get CD quality remixes, in which you would have had to buy old used (and probably poor sound quality) 12" records. This CD is highly recommended for anyone who's heard "Obsession" or is into 80's Synth Pop. 5/5!

Average customer rating:

Ear- and Nerve-Grating
transcends the years
Vengerov's butching of ysaye
a happy medium..
A triumphant release in every way

Vengerov Plays Bach, Shchedrin, Ysaye
Eugene Ysaye , and Maxim Vengerov
Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Lalo: Symphonie Espagnole; Saint-Saens: Violin Concerto; Ravel: Tzigane; Maxim Vengerov
Vengerov and Virtuosi
Vengerov
Maxim Vengerov - The Road I Travel
Brahms: Violin Concerto; Sonata No. 3

ASIN: B00006H1EI
Release Date: 2002-11-05

Tracks:

I. Obsession: Prelude (Poco Vivace - Meno Mosso - Tempo Vivo)
II. Mainconia: Poco Lento
III. Danse Des Ombres: Sarabande (Lento, Pizzicato) - Var.1 (Dolce E Semplice) - Var.2 Musette - Var.3 Minore - Var.4 (Tranquillo) - Var.5 (Semplice Non Piu Vivo) - Var.6 (Forte) - Sarabande (Lento, Arco)
IV. Les Furies: Allegro Furioso
Ballade: Lento Molto Sostenuto (In Modo Di Recitativo) - Molto Moderato Quasi Lento - Allegro In Tempo Giusto E Con Bravura - Tempo Piu Vivo E Ben Marcato
I. Allemanda: Lento Maestoso
II. Sarabande: Quasi Lento
III. Finale: Presto Ma Non Troppo
Allegro Giusto Non Troppo Vivo - Allegretto Poco Scherzando (Habanera) - Tempo I
Echo Sonata, Op.69
Preludio - Fuga - Recitativo
Balalaika, Op.100 (To Maxim Vengerov)

Amazon.com

Eugene Ysae's six unaccompanied violin sonatas, composed when his own playing days were over and dedicated to colleagues he admired, occupy a special niche in the repertoire. Though inspired by Bach's sonatas and partitas and peppered with quotes from them, they are unequalled for sheer virtuosity and romantic sensuousness; only a great violinist intimately familiar with the resources of his instrument could have written them. On this disc, Maxim Vengerov plays Nos. 2, 3, 4, and 6, along with a transcription by Bruce Fox-Lefriche of Bach's famous Toccata and Fugue in D minor for organ, which he claims was originally conceived for violin. He also performs Shchedrin's "Echo" Sonata, op. 69. Written in 1984 in a mixture of styles from conventional to abrasively dissonant, it outdoes Ysae's in hair-raising pyrotechnics and also honors Bach by quoting from his works. Vengerov's playing is spectacular and makes this disc a must for violin aficionados.

One of the sensational prodigies who emerged from Siberia, Vengerov is young enough to revel in his own virtuosity with relish and abandon. His technical command is unlimited, and he seems incapable of producing a bad sound, except for a strange habit of tearing off last notes with a crescendo and accent like a bad tenor. Tossing off the acrobatics--scales and runs in thirds, fingered octaves and tenths at top speed, leaps and jumps, bravura bowings, chords, pizzicato, ponticello--with effortless ease and infectious enjoyment, he captures the styles of Ysae's dedicatees and gives the pieces shape, character, and expression. For the Bach, he uses a baroque bow and a violin tuned a half-tone down, playing with little or no vibrato but in basically the same intense style. His encore, a pizzicato piece called "Balalaika," written for him by Shchedrin, was recorded live complete with applause and laughter. --Edith Eisler

Customer Reviews:

Ear- and Nerve-Grating.......2007-05-29

Vengerov's technical proficiency in these extremely challenging pieces is beyond question. What are lacking in his performances are beauty of tone, euphony, and logical flow. In fast passages such as the last movement of Sonata no. 3, Vengerov's approach seems to be flashiness and velocity above substance. At times, as at the beginning of Sonata 6, he produces a tone that is downright ugly and harsh. The tendency, mentioned in the critical review above, to crescendo steeply to a sforzando on long notes is pervasive and irritating. Another serious downside of this recording is that it is not a complete set of the Ysaye sonatas - it is missing the first and fifth.

The performance of the Bach Toccata and Fugue transcription is an interesting case in itself. Vengerov here uses a baroque bow - in itself a commendable action, one that few "mainstream" violinists would do. The problem is that no one appears to have taught Vengerov how to use it; his bowstrokes are little different from the heavy manner of a modern bow. Although he uses a lower pitch, he makes no attempt at meantone intonation. And other aspects of the performance - such as his manner of spreading chords - show no knowledge of baroque style. What was the point of this semi-authentic experiment?

This is the only recording I have heard thus far of Ysaye's sonatas. It left me very unsatisfied, to the degree that I do not feel that I really know the works. Although the Ysaye sonatas are virtuoso pieces, they are also serious compositions informed by Bach, which puts them on a higher level than whiz-bang encore pieces by Paganini or Sarasate. As far as I can see, all Vengerov's version has going for it is technical wizardry - and that can be got with a number of other violinists with the added ingredient of musicality.

transcends the years.......2004-07-18

Vengerov knocks it out of the park. The Ysaye is stunning, especially 2 and 3. The most interesting feature is the tonality and feelings of the pieces, which are markedly similar, across composers. The Ysaye, Shchedrin, and Bach all capture a more ancient and common tonality and feel, and have an almost primitive and rustic feel. A must.

Vengerov's butching of ysaye.......2004-05-26

Vengerov has some interesting thoughts on music, i must say, but when he picks up the violin, he goes overboard. Just listen to the intro of Obsession. its sloppy, uneven, and just horendous...the rest of the pieces aren't much different. PLEASE do yourself a favor and save 7 dollars and gain infinite musical joy by getting Ilya Kaler's Ysaye sonatas...

a happy medium.........2002-11-29

You get the feeling Vengerov doesn't play the Ysaye, he channels it! This is stupefying music making, and the Ysaye Sonatas especially, hardly known, are musically brilliant pieces. Even apart from the Fox-Lefriche transcription, Bach is all over this disc. The secret metaphysic of Bach appears like a fragrance in whatever Vengerov plays; a violinist's musical construct must be endowed with Bach's rhythmic consciousness or it won't endure, and Vengerov loves the Master almost more in Ysaye than in Bach! A rich Bachian rhythmic core in this Russian master's violin playing is the beauty of this recording. It's curiously an effect even more accessible in his live performances, the physical dimensions of his playing are perfectly aligned, &all you get is freedom and joy in the music he makes. Reminiscent of Oistrakh in that way. This is one of Vengerov's best recordings musically, and the sonics are play-it-AGAIN captivating. Get it to hear the Ysaye sonatas, but the rest of the program also rewards. The Shchedrin sonata is shocking and pure, and Vengerov extracts all the juice, delivering a major performance of it. I agree it's interesting how much the live encore doesnt jar or intrude, it's a heady reminder of the art of the stage, and leaves a musical imprint too. While he's got a strapping pop star kind of personal charm, Vengerov is a musician of tremendous intellect and heart, distilling sheer music and refining an extraordinary art, qualities rampant hereabout.. check it for yourself.

A triumphant release in every way.......2002-11-06

Inspired by Bach's sonatas and partitas for solo violin, Eugene Ysaye wrote his six sonatas for solo violin in 1924. Not only are these pieces brilliantly constructed and hugely effective for the instrument (Ysaye was, after all, one of the great violinists of his age), they do indeed develop out of Bach's magnum opus, only that in writing his own set Ysaye has pushed the technical limits of the instrument to previously undreamt-of heights. Besides, they are also obviously products of a more romantic age, as there is often an air of improvisation and romantic passion in the writing.

Four of these sonatas, Nos. 2, 3, 4 and 6, are included in this new EMI recording. They are originally dedicated by the composer to such eminent violinists as Jacques Thibaud, Georges Enesco, Fritz Kreisler and Manuel Quiroga respectively. Here these technically spectacular and spiritually imposing masterpieces have found a magnificent modern advocate in Maxim Vengerov, whose playing, though perhaps different in style to those luminous dedicatees of these works, is technically immaculate and shiningly stylish. The ranges of dynamics and tone colour that the young Russian violinist commands are nothing short of staggering, and when these are put to the service of an intellectually probing, individualistic and yet spontaneous mind, we are hearing something that is really quite exceptional. There is also a sort of intensity and ardour in the performances that is literally breath-taking. More or less the same can be said for the performance of the Sonata in A minor, which actually is a transcription (by Bruce Fox-Lefriche) of the famous D minor Toccata and Fugue for organ, on which some scholars have expressed doubted as to whether the piece indeed came from the hands of JS Bach. Some are of the view that the piece actually began its life as a sonata in A minor for solo violin and Vengerov here plays this re-construction with panache, expression as well as a keen sense of proportion, even though I personally prefer him doing the piece on a modern violin rather than the (stylistically more accurate) baroque instrument that he employs specifically for this track.

Two works by the contemporary Russian composer Rodion Shchedrin are included here. The more substantial one is the Echo Sonata, which Shchedrin wrote in 1985 as a commemorative showpiece for Bach's tercentenary. It is a fiendishly difficult but mostly reflective modern piece with some eerie-sounding soft passages and quotes from Bach's solo pieces. The 15 minute work is not easy to bring off at all, but it is here effortlessly conquered through Vengerov's sovereign bowing and awesome musicianship. The violinist not only negotiates each and every technical hurdle with consummate ease, he also tosses off the notes with great elan and conviction and invests the contrasting sections with much light and shade, which renders the piece even more interesting than it may seem on paper. The recording ends (very appropriately) with the only "live" recording included in this release, a performance of Shchedrin's Balalaika taped from a recital at London's Barbican Hall in 2000. Vengerov delivers this pizzicato piece, dedicated to him by the composer, with aplomb and a disarming sense of humour, which draws much laughter from the audience as well as thunderous applause at the end. In fact, such applause is not out of place at all even in the context of the entire album, for it is difficult to resist from voicing one's strong approval after hearing 66 minutes of such scintillating and supremely musical performances on the solo violin.

Tracks:

The Witches Of Eastwick: Devil's Dance
Young Frankenstein: A Transylvanian Lullaby
Puck
Danse Macabre
Caprice Fantastique
Walpurgisnacht
Hexenlied
La Ronde Des Lutins
Graceful Ghost
Concert Fantasy On Gounod's Faust
Caprice No. 13
Sonata In G Minor 'Devil's Trill'
Solo Sonata No. 2: Obsession

Amazon.com

Though it's haunted by goblins, ghosts, and monsters, it is hard to find anything very satanic in much of this music, except its fiendishly difficult pyrotechnics. Its sole purpose is to display Gil Shaham's devilishly dazzling virtuosity, glorious tone, elegance, humor, and bewitching charm. The only substantial piece is Tartini's "Devil's Trill Sonata," in Kreisler's edition complete with his long, diabolically strenuous cadenza; Shaham plays it very beautifully, with genuine, moving expressiveness. Elsewhere, his tongue is never far from his cheek, whether he is tossing off Bazzini's "Rondo de Lutins" perfectly at top speed, or having fun with the fireworks of Korngold's "Caprice fantastique," Sarasate's "Faust Fantasie," Grieg's "Puck" arranged by Joseph Achron, Paganini's Caprice No. 13, with a piano part by Robert Schumann, and Saint-Saëns' "Dance macabre," in which the pianist doubles for a whole orchestra. There are also transcriptions of passionately romantic pieces by Brahms and Mendelssohn, and excursions into different styles: William Bolcom's "Graceful Ghost" rag; "Transylvanian Lullaby" from John Morris's soundtrack for "Young Frankenstein" transcribed by Shaham's pianist, Jonathan Feldman; and the title piece, "Devil's Dance" arranged by John Williams from his soundtrack for "The Witches of Eastwick." You can safely invite this devil of a violinist into your home--he is excellent company. --Edith Eisler

Customer Reviews:

Halloween Violin.......2005-10-17

While not always frightening as much as classical music with a Halloween theme, this is a fine recording to play at parties if the guests fancy this kind of music. The title refers to the Devil's Dance, for violin & piano from the film Witches of Eastwick, a work composed by John Williams. It is followed by A Transylvanian Rhapsody from the comic film Young Frankeinstein. The most famous piece of all "Danse Macabre" was Saint Saens' ghoulish work that nearly caused his mother a heart attack at the premire. Using stage effects like smoke and mist, Saint Saens had dancing skeletons waltzing on stage. The Devil Trill Sonata by Tartini has a frightening story behind it. It was rumored that the composer dreamt that the Devil gave him the score to this violin piece. It is played at an impossible speed and is one of the most difficult violin pieces ever composed. Only few violinists take on this piece. The music on this album is however not as scary as some other classical Halloween CD's out there but violin afficionados will be quite delighted.

Puzzling choices, and not all that devilish.......2004-10-21

I'll say right off that Shaham's technique is top-notch, which is what one expects from such an album. And this is fine playing, with the violin and piano generally blending well.

But while this was clearly intended to be a "concept album," the artists/producers made several puzzling (and frustrating) choices that left me wondering just what the concept was supposed to be. The music is "devilishly difficult" at some times (the Tartini, for example), "creepy and eerie" at others (the "Danse macabre", others). However, several of the pieces are neither dazzingly difficult nor all that creepy - the Brahms and the Mendelssohn, for example, fail both definitions and, frankly, just don't seem to fit on this album. And then, there's the Paganini B-flat caprice - a solo violin piece transcribed for violin and piano, weakening the focus on violin virtuosity - while the Ysaye is left as a solo piece . . . well, a **piece** of a piece - we're given only a part of one movement of a four-movement work that is both very difficult AND built around that ultimate "creepy" theme, the "Dies Irae." Why only part of a single movement?

The net effect of all this is an album that doesn't seem to know what it wants to be. It's almost as if someone committed to an album concept without making sure there was enough material to fill the album. Further quibbles: the violin is placed somewhat too far back, for my taste; on a virtuoso album, I want to be "up close" to catch all the nuances of the performance. And the balance between violin and piano is less than ideal at times, at least to my ear.

As I said, the playing is fine; it's the concept execution that falls short of "as advertised."

Watch Out Where You Play This CD.......2002-05-17

As everyone says this is an extremely enjoyable disc. While it played fine in my ordinary CD player, the one in my computer couldn't handle it. Not only wouldn't it play, but it crashed the whole machine. Real deviltry at work!

... the best music ever recorded!.......2002-05-07

Sometimes I forget to breathe-this CD is so mind-blowing! This is the type of CD that you can't help but wave your hands around pretending to conduct the song!........ Ok.... Deep breathes.......o-o...I have to calm down! Now this CD features not just the best musicians but the best composers. They are John Williams (simply the best), Camille Saint-Saens (who composed one of the most famous "spooky" songs: Danse macabre!) ,and John Morris, you know.... Composed the music for YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN, the funniest movie EVER! And guess what the theme song is on the CD!.. The charming yet spooky.........'Young Frankenstein': A Transylvania Lullaby. Hexenlied, one of my favorites, is by MR. Felix Mendelssohn (no he's not Felix the cat!)..........So...many....good.....songs....so.....Little--t-t-time. OK. It's time to wrap things up.....BUY THIS CD, YOU WON'T REGRET IT! :)

Pretty good.......2002-01-23

This CD has pretty interesting selection. My only qualm about it is sometimes it seems that the piano is competing for volume with the soloist, especially in Dans Macabre. This rendition is definitely not my favourite version. But some other gems make up for this, like Devils Dance, and La Ronde des Lutins. Devils dance is really well arranged and performed, and thats my favourite track on this album.

Average customer rating:

"Salon" (not "Saloon") Ragtime
Bolcom - Piano Rags
Comprehensive collection of modern Americana
Still Raggin'

Bolcom - Piano Rags

Manufacturer: Albany Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

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ASIN: B00000IMH2
Release Date: 1999-04-20

Tracks:

Eubie's Lucky Day (Rag Obsession)
Three Ghost Rags: Graceful Ghost Rag
Three Ghost Rags: The Poltergeist (Rag Fantasy)
Three Ghost Rags: Dream Shadows
Raggin' Rudi
The Gardenia (Slow Drag)
Tabby Cat Walk (Slow Two-step)
California Porcupine Rag
Rag-Tango
Last Rag

Tracks:

Knight Hubert
Three Classic Rags - Glad Rag
- Eiptaph for Louis Chauvin (Slow Rag)
- Incineratorag
Seabiscuits (from three popular rags)
Fields of Flowers
The Garden of Eden - Old Adam (Two Step)
- The Eternal Feminine (Slow Drag)
- The Serpent's Kiss (Rag Fantasy)
- Through Eden's Gate (Cakewalk)
Lost Lady Rag
Epithalamium

Customer Reviews:

"Salon" (not "Saloon") Ragtime.......2007-06-06

It's a matter of taste whether one likes ragtime in its "saloon" or "salon" form. Personally I prefer the former, because ragtime was originally performed in saloons and brothels in two of the main centers of early 20th Century popular music -- New Orleans and Sedalia, Missouri. In other words, it was popular entertainment for a popular audience. Admittedly, Scott Joplin, James Scott, and Joseph Lamb (among others) had higher aspirations --- nevertheless, the music's main appeal was the sheer, high-energy "charge" of the music. That's what I find largely missing in more classically-oriented pianists like John Murphy, who, like Joshua Rifkin and John Arpin before him, seem intent on turning the music into something appropriate for a staid Carnegie Hall audience. Not that there aren't fine rags here that occasionally capture the flavor of raw Bohemianism --- pieces like "Eubie's Lucky Day," "Raggin' Rudi," "California Porcupine Rag," and "The Serpent's Kiss" all have their moments. But even on these, the dead weight of Murphy's genteel hand takes a lot of the "dance" out of the music. The concert-hall "echo" effect contributes even more to the annoyingly sanitized quality. Paradoxically, from my point of view, the best piece on the entire set is the slow drag called "The Eternal Feminine," since it's a deliberately laid-back composition to begin with, much like the famous "Heliotrope Bouquet" of Louis Chauvin. For those, however, who want Rags to Really Dance To, I'd recommend Richard Zimmerman's Complete Joplin Rags, some of "Perfessor" Bill Edwards's solo ragtime discs, or, best of all, almost any of the piano rag discs performed by Scott Kirby or David Thomas Roberts. Best single "saloon" disc ever? Track down Roberts's compilation of "The Collected Brun Campbell." Now THERE'S real ragtime!!!"

Bolcom - Piano Rags.......2005-09-02

Better to buy the sheet music to go along with this to realize how complicated these are to play. Murphy has that special 'bent' to play the details - there are no shortcuts in this set..

Comprehensive collection of modern Americana.......2001-10-13

William Bolcom is undoubtedly one of America's most important living composers and musicians. Without sacrificing one iota of his stylistic integrity or musical personality, he has done much to bridge the gap between so-called serious music and the popular idioms that most people think of when the phrase "American music" is uttered: ragtime, jazz and music-hall styles. His albums of popular music from the turn of the 20th century with his wife, mezzo-soprano Joan Morris, remain classics of their kind.

John Murphy, who plays all of Bolcom's piano rags on this collection, is a personal friend of the composer and presumably has his seal of approval. It's good to have all of this enjoyable music in one place; still, I can't muster as much enthusiasm for this album as I would like. Murphy's technique, though serviceable, seems taxed by the more demanding moments in these frequently virtuosic pieces, and the resulting lack of rhythmic precision, in particular, frequently robs the music of its full effect. He also applies the pedal more liberally than I personally like. Nevertheless, the chances of anyone else recording all of Bolcom's 29 rags (including seven unpublished pieces) in the near future is remote, so this is an album fans of this composer ought to have.

Still Raggin'.......2000-04-13

Despite the origins of ragtime being a century ago, ragtime still thrives today. It is considered a legitimate classical music form. It is even more delightful to have contemporary rags get published and performed - especially when the performance captures the nuance of the composer's intentions. William Bolcom's finely crafted rags come to life under pianist John Murphy's hands. From the delicate, thoughtful Ghost Rags to the slammin' variations in the Garden of Eden, Bolcom combines the energy of turn-of-the-century ragtime with refined classical sensibility. This CD set should be a part of any and every ragtime anthology - from casual listeners to classroom teachers.

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