Top shelf -Top class, 20 Aug 2008
Suprise I only have one Bowie album ( its true) Hunky Dory and to be honest I cant even say when the last time was that I played it, yea I have records and CD`s. so an old friend lent this to me to see if he could fire up my interest ,He being a Bowie follower the the last 30 ish years . stoke up the fire he did, I knew most of the tracks through him and radio etc but this recording is the Bowie band that I always wanted but never knew existed!! a bloody great rock and roll band why didnt I know, well I guess its my then mid seventies narrow mindedness exploring all these vertigo releases and almost anything my weekly music mag raved about `sounds` The last thing I think I would nt of been able to handle is be pointed over to the top 40 hits of Bowie, This is a revelation Have mercy!!( Thanks SHAUN ).I owe you one!

Great performance of iconic songs., 18 Jul 2008
I've not listened to Bowie for many years, but when I saw this had been released I decided to get it straight away. This was my favourite era, and I'm a big fan of live albums, seeing how well a small group can reproduce the songs on stage - and they certainly don't disappoint. The band wend their way through a brilliant 18-song set, ranging from the full-on rock of Suffragette City to a wonderful version of Space Oddity - just 2 vocals and a 12-string acoustic guitar. There are only one or two tracks which don't quite match up to the quality of the studio versions; but this is live music and you would expect that. The one thing that stops me giving this five stars is the sound quality and mix. Mostly it is very good, but frequently there are problems: Bowie's guitar is nearly always too quiet (almost inaudible, in fact) and his vocals are occasionally a bit lost in the mix, but my biggest complaint is that various sounds seem to wander over from one side of the stereo mix to the other during the songs, for no apparent reason - Ronson's guitar frequently does this, as do some of the vocals, which is really annoying. I've no idea of the sound source, but surely in this digital age something could have been done to fix it? The CD is nicely packaged in a small box, great artwork and lots of little goodies inside: postcards, booklet, etc. - a lot of effort has gone into this project - it's well worth the money.

Disappointingly inferior to Hammersmith Odean, 16 Jul 2008
The album may be much hyped but when I bought it I was deeply disappointed. Frankly I felt that none of the songs were performed any better than the farewell concert at Hammersmith Odean the following year, and some of them were considerably worse. Released as Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars: the Motion Picture Soundtrack, the Hammersmith Odean CD offers 20 tracks and they give a much better flavour of David Bowie and Mick Ronson at their very best. Buy that CD instead, or even better the DVD of the concert.

ZIGGY!!!!!, 13 Jul 2008
Brill cd,would recomend. i whish i could have been old enough to go and see Bowie as Ziggy but 72 was the year i was born!!
Get this cd up at full volume and if you have it ,through surround sound it sounds as if you are actually there.


Ziggy: warts and all, 13 Jul 2008
A bit of a holy grail for Bowie fans, this is identical to the earlier CD release back in the 90's so if you already have then that don't buy this. That said any self-respecting Bowiephile should have a copy of this in their collection.

It's not perfect: what you get here comes complete with technical hiccups, Mick Ronson's flat backing vocals and bum guitar notes, and Bowie's attempt to recreate the 'lift off' section from Space Oddity ranks alongside The Laughing Gnome as a truly cringe-worthy moment. But what you also get is the definitive historical record of Ziggy in his most formative and creative period. When Bowie introduces one number with "This song was written by Ziggy" he's not kidding. At the time he recorded this he was living and breathing his most famous creation.

And there are some very special moments, too. Acoustic versions of My Death and Andy Warhol stand out, the latter adopting an eerie quality lacking in the Ken Scott studio production. All in all this is THE definitive Ziggy live album, rivalled only by the original bootleg versions of 'last' show at Hammersmith Odeon the following year.

Grammy nominated singer/songwriter Josh Groban is known as a versatile performer and singer. Here he introduces fans to his festive side with Noel," a collection of cover tunes that run from "the religious to the irreverent". With orchestral backing from the London Symphony Orchestra, Groban croons and soars his way through a varied range of Christmas classics, enlisting the likes of Brian McKnight ("Angels We Have Heard on High"), Faith Hill ("The First Noel"), and a gospel choir directed by Kirk Franklin to help conjure up a warm and soulful vibe. Tracks like "I'll Be Home for Christmas", "It Came Upon a Midnight Clear", (featuring just voice and piano) and "O Come All Ye Faithful" (with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir) should provide a soothing sonic accompaniment for all music fans, no matter what the age range or stylistic leaning. --Danny McKenna

Top shelf -Top class, 20 Aug 2008
Suprise I only have one Bowie album ( its true) Hunky Dory and to be honest I cant even say when the last time was that I played it, yea I have records and CD`s. so an old friend lent this to me to see if he could fire up my interest ,He being a Bowie follower the the last 30 ish years . stoke up the fire he did, I knew most of the tracks through him and radio etc but this recording is the Bowie band that I always wanted but never knew existed!! a bloody great rock and roll band why didnt I know, well I guess its my then mid seventies narrow mindedness exploring all these vertigo releases and almost anything my weekly music mag raved about `sounds` The last thing I think I would nt of been able to handle is be pointed over to the top 40 hits of Bowie, This is a revelation Have mercy!!( Thanks SHAUN ).I owe you one!

Great performance of iconic songs., 18 Jul 2008
I've not listened to Bowie for many years, but when I saw this had been released I decided to get it straight away. This was my favourite era, and I'm a big fan of live albums, seeing how well a small group can reproduce the songs on stage - and they certainly don't disappoint. The band wend their way through a brilliant 18-song set, ranging from the full-on rock of Suffragette City to a wonderful version of Space Oddity - just 2 vocals and a 12-string acoustic guitar. There are only one or two tracks which don't quite match up to the quality of the studio versions; but this is live music and you would expect that. The one thing that stops me giving this five stars is the sound quality and mix. Mostly it is very good, but frequently there are problems: Bowie's guitar is nearly always too quiet (almost inaudible, in fact) and his vocals are occasionally a bit lost in the mix, but my biggest complaint is that various sounds seem to wander over from one side of the stereo mix to the other during the songs, for no apparent reason - Ronson's guitar frequently does this, as do some of the vocals, which is really annoying. I've no idea of the sound source, but surely in this digital age something could have been done to fix it? The CD is nicely packaged in a small box, great artwork and lots of little goodies inside: postcards, booklet, etc. - a lot of effort has gone into this project - it's well worth the money.

Disappointingly inferior to Hammersmith Odean, 16 Jul 2008
The album may be much hyped but when I bought it I was deeply disappointed. Frankly I felt that none of the songs were performed any better than the farewell concert at Hammersmith Odean the following year, and some of them were considerably worse. Released as Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars: the Motion Picture Soundtrack, the Hammersmith Odean CD offers 20 tracks and they give a much better flavour of David Bowie and Mick Ronson at their very best. Buy that CD instead, or even better the DVD of the concert.

ZIGGY!!!!!, 13 Jul 2008
Brill cd,would recomend. i whish i could have been old enough to go and see Bowie as Ziggy but 72 was the year i was born!!
Get this cd up at full volume and if you have it ,through surround sound it sounds as if you are actually there.


Ziggy: warts and all, 13 Jul 2008
A bit of a holy grail for Bowie fans, this is identical to the earlier CD release back in the 90's so if you already have then that don't buy this. That said any self-respecting Bowiephile should have a copy of this in their collection.

It's not perfect: what you get here comes complete with technical hiccups, Mick Ronson's flat backing vocals and bum guitar notes, and Bowie's attempt to recreate the 'lift off' section from Space Oddity ranks alongside The Laughing Gnome as a truly cringe-worthy moment. But what you also get is the definitive historical record of Ziggy in his most formative and creative period. When Bowie introduces one number with "This song was written by Ziggy" he's not kidding. At the time he recorded this he was living and breathing his most famous creation.

And there are some very special moments, too. Acoustic versions of My Death and Andy Warhol stand out, the latter adopting an eerie quality lacking in the Ken Scott studio production. All in all this is THE definitive Ziggy live album, rivalled only by the original bootleg versions of 'last' show at Hammersmith Odeon the following year.



Voice of an Angel, 01 Aug 2008
Josh Groban has an absolutely beautiful voice - a singer that steps on the line between baritone and tenor. It's quite an experience to listen to, and I got his album upon hearing great reviews from my friends who'd listened to him in America beforehand. Check him out, he is indeed very good. He has a very relaxing, lullaby-like tone - in a nutshell.

This is a compilation of Christmas songs, but, I (and hopefully, you) can listen to them any time of year - they're very relaxing. :)

Superb, 19 Jan 2008
This album is absolutely stunning and has already been said is the only Christmas album you will ever need. It goes without saying that Josh's voice is wonderful and is so perfect for these songs but the arrangements are absolutely superb. The tracks have been put down with such love and emotion and it really shows. I also love the duets because Josh is such a generous performer and brings the best out of everyone.

I feel sad for all the people who will never hear this album, and also for the fact that any one track should have been the Christmas Number one and not the x factor mediocrity we are subjected to every year.

A Josh G is not just for Christmas, 12 Jan 2008
This is a beautiful recording - all songs sung with such sensitivity. For such a young man he has it all!
Just slightly put off by the spoken "greetings" on "Home for Christmas" - I can never quite trust these Americanisms - but the songs are wonderful.Gorgeous to listen to at any time.

A TOUCH OF THE BLUES, 16 Dec 2007
I don't mean Rhythm & Blues I mean THE Blues, as that's what this album gave me when I played it.
Don't get me wrong I think Josh is great and have all his cd's but this Christmas cd I found rather depressing and was glad when it finally finished, where's the Christmas cheer Josh?

Outstanding from The Master!, 13 Dec 2007
Wow got this cd from the states a month ago and has been on ever since!
This Man has such a powerful and rich voice!
Just listen to the words of "Thankful" will really make you think!
Josh just gets better and better some great classic christmas songs! a must have for anyones collection!

Top shelf -Top class, 20 Aug 2008
Suprise I only have one Bowie album ( its true) Hunky Dory and to be honest I cant even say when the last time was that I played it, yea I have records and CD`s. so an old friend lent this to me to see if he could fire up my interest ,He being a Bowie follower the the last 30 ish years . stoke up the fire he did, I knew most of the tracks through him and radio etc but this recording is the Bowie band that I always wanted but never knew existed!! a bloody great rock and roll band why didnt I know, well I guess its my then mid seventies narrow mindedness exploring all these vertigo releases and almost anything my weekly music mag raved about `sounds` The last thing I think I would nt of been able to handle is be pointed over to the top 40 hits of Bowie, This is a revelation Have mercy!!( Thanks SHAUN ).I owe you one!

Great performance of iconic songs., 18 Jul 2008
I've not listened to Bowie for many years, but when I saw this had been released I decided to get it straight away. This was my favourite era, and I'm a big fan of live albums, seeing how well a small group can reproduce the songs on stage - and they certainly don't disappoint. The band wend their way through a brilliant 18-song set, ranging from the full-on rock of Suffragette City to a wonderful version of Space Oddity - just 2 vocals and a 12-string acoustic guitar. There are only one or two tracks which don't quite match up to the quality of the studio versions; but this is live music and you would expect that. The one thing that stops me giving this five stars is the sound quality and mix. Mostly it is very good, but frequently there are problems: Bowie's guitar is nearly always too quiet (almost inaudible, in fact) and his vocals are occasionally a bit lost in the mix, but my biggest complaint is that various sounds seem to wander over from one side of the stereo mix to the other during the songs, for no apparent reason - Ronson's guitar frequently does this, as do some of the vocals, which is really annoying. I've no idea of the sound source, but surely in this digital age something could have been done to fix it? The CD is nicely packaged in a small box, great artwork and lots of little goodies inside: postcards, booklet, etc. - a lot of effort has gone into this project - it's well worth the money.

Disappointingly inferior to Hammersmith Odean, 16 Jul 2008
The album may be much hyped but when I bought it I was deeply disappointed. Frankly I felt that none of the songs were performed any better than the farewell concert at Hammersmith Odean the following year, and some of them were considerably worse. Released as Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars: the Motion Picture Soundtrack, the Hammersmith Odean CD offers 20 tracks and they give a much better flavour of David Bowie and Mick Ronson at their very best. Buy that CD instead, or even better the DVD of the concert.

ZIGGY!!!!!, 13 Jul 2008
Brill cd,would recomend. i whish i could have been old enough to go and see Bowie as Ziggy but 72 was the year i was born!!
Get this cd up at full volume and if you have it ,through surround sound it sounds as if you are actually there.


Ziggy: warts and all, 13 Jul 2008
A bit of a holy grail for Bowie fans, this is identical to the earlier CD release back in the 90's so if you already have then that don't buy this. That said any self-respecting Bowiephile should have a copy of this in their collection.

It's not perfect: what you get here comes complete with technical hiccups, Mick Ronson's flat backing vocals and bum guitar notes, and Bowie's attempt to recreate the 'lift off' section from Space Oddity ranks alongside The Laughing Gnome as a truly cringe-worthy moment. But what you also get is the definitive historical record of Ziggy in his most formative and creative period. When Bowie introduces one number with "This song was written by Ziggy" he's not kidding. At the time he recorded this he was living and breathing his most famous creation.

And there are some very special moments, too. Acoustic versions of My Death and Andy Warhol stand out, the latter adopting an eerie quality lacking in the Ken Scott studio production. All in all this is THE definitive Ziggy live album, rivalled only by the original bootleg versions of 'last' show at Hammersmith Odeon the following year.



Voice of an Angel, 01 Aug 2008
Josh Groban has an absolutely beautiful voice - a singer that steps on the line between baritone and tenor. It's quite an experience to listen to, and I got his album upon hearing great reviews from my friends who'd listened to him in America beforehand. Check him out, he is indeed very good. He has a very relaxing, lullaby-like tone - in a nutshell.

This is a compilation of Christmas songs, but, I (and hopefully, you) can listen to them any time of year - they're very relaxing. :)

Superb, 19 Jan 2008
This album is absolutely stunning and has already been said is the only Christmas album you will ever need. It goes without saying that Josh's voice is wonderful and is so perfect for these songs but the arrangements are absolutely superb. The tracks have been put down with such love and emotion and it really shows. I also love the duets because Josh is such a generous performer and brings the best out of everyone.

I feel sad for all the people who will never hear this album, and also for the fact that any one track should have been the Christmas Number one and not the x factor mediocrity we are subjected to every year.

A Josh G is not just for Christmas, 12 Jan 2008
This is a beautiful recording - all songs sung with such sensitivity. For such a young man he has it all!
Just slightly put off by the spoken "greetings" on "Home for Christmas" - I can never quite trust these Americanisms - but the songs are wonderful.Gorgeous to listen to at any time.

A TOUCH OF THE BLUES, 16 Dec 2007
I don't mean Rhythm & Blues I mean THE Blues, as that's what this album gave me when I played it.
Don't get me wrong I think Josh is great and have all his cd's but this Christmas cd I found rather depressing and was glad when it finally finished, where's the Christmas cheer Josh?

Outstanding from The Master!, 13 Dec 2007
Wow got this cd from the states a month ago and has been on ever since!
This Man has such a powerful and rich voice!
Just listen to the words of "Thankful" will really make you think!
Josh just gets better and better some great classic christmas songs! a must have for anyones collection!

A wonderful collection of songs - you'll not regret buying it!, 07 Jan 2008
I am biased of course because I love James Taylor's voice...! but this is sublime for a christmas feel anytime of the year...even if,like me, you are not vaguely religious, all the songs just feel 'right'!

Perfect Christmas music, 05 Jan 2008
I ordered this after hearing James Taylor singing a couple of the songs on a radio show. The CD is just beautiful and I have had it on almost non-stop since i bought it. Taylor has a lovely voice, the arrangements are wonderful and it evokes a really relaxing 'mince pies baking in the oven, snow falling outside' sort of atmosphere. Just perfect.

Love it!, 16 Dec 2007
It's beautiful. I can't stop listening to it. If I had to pick a favorite it would either be River or Baby It's Cold Outside. You can't go wrong with this CD.

Great for relaxing at Christmas, 04 Nov 2006
For any fan of James Taylor, Christmas albums, or simply excellent music this is a must buy. James Taylor has a very easy voice to listen to, and the majority of the songs are instantly recognizable. There are some beautiful vocals, which add to already well known songs. If, like me, you managed to get the Hallmark Christmas album from the US, 10 tracks are the same here (10 out of the 12 being on this, and Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas already being owned by fans who bought October Road a few years ago), the only "New" track to true JT fan is "River", but "Deck the Halls" is not on this new release, and was on the Hallmark version.
I've listened to this album(The Hallmark version) a lot since I bought it, and I'm already looking forward to the festive season, so that I can listen again.

Greatest Hits Chapter One carves an unusual career path for those wholesome Backstreet Boys. Although all five members are from the USA, they had their first hit singles, "We've Got It Goin On" and "I'll Never Break Your Heart", in Europe. The story unfolds further as their singles marched with regularity into various Top Tens around the world at the end of the 1990s--as they "broke through" and won a string of prestigious awards. Chapter One begins with the somewhat childlike "We've Got It Goin On" and continues through all the greats such as "Larger Than Life", "Everybody (Backstreet's Back)" and the new song "Drowning". --Ulf Behlen

Top shelf -Top class, 20 Aug 2008
Suprise I only have one Bowie album ( its true) Hunky Dory and to be honest I cant even say when the last time was that I played it, yea I have records and CD`s. so an old friend lent this to me to see if he could fire up my interest ,He being a Bowie follower the the last 30 ish years . stoke up the fire he did, I knew most of the tracks through him and radio etc but this recording is the Bowie band that I always wanted but never knew existed!! a bloody great rock and roll band why didnt I know, well I guess its my then mid seventies narrow mindedness exploring all these vertigo releases and almost anything my weekly music mag raved about `sounds` The last thing I think I would nt of been able to handle is be pointed over to the top 40 hits of Bowie, This is a revelation Have mercy!!( Thanks SHAUN ).I owe you one!

Great performance of iconic songs., 18 Jul 2008
I've not listened to Bowie for many years, but when I saw this had been released I decided to get it straight away. This was my favourite era, and I'm a big fan of live albums, seeing how well a small group can reproduce the songs on stage - and they certainly don't disappoint. The band wend their way through a brilliant 18-song set, ranging from the full-on rock of Suffragette City to a wonderful version of Space Oddity - just 2 vocals and a 12-string acoustic guitar. There are only one or two tracks which don't quite match up to the quality of the studio versions; but this is live music and you would expect that. The one thing that stops me giving this five stars is the sound quality and mix. Mostly it is very good, but frequently there are problems: Bowie's guitar is nearly always too quiet (almost inaudible, in fact) and his vocals are occasionally a bit lost in the mix, but my biggest complaint is that various sounds seem to wander over from one side of the stereo mix to the other during the songs, for no apparent reason - Ronson's guitar frequently does this, as do some of the vocals, which is really annoying. I've no idea of the sound source, but surely in this digital age something could have been done to fix it? The CD is nicely packaged in a small box, great artwork and lots of little goodies inside: postcards, booklet, etc. - a lot of effort has gone into this project - it's well worth the money.

Disappointingly inferior to Hammersmith Odean, 16 Jul 2008
The album may be much hyped but when I bought it I was deeply disappointed. Frankly I felt that none of the songs were performed any better than the farewell concert at Hammersmith Odean the following year, and some of them were considerably worse. Released as Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars: the Motion Picture Soundtrack, the Hammersmith Odean CD offers 20 tracks and they give a much better flavour of David Bowie and Mick Ronson at their very best. Buy that CD instead, or even better the DVD of the concert.

ZIGGY!!!!!, 13 Jul 2008
Brill cd,would recomend. i whish i could have been old enough to go and see Bowie as Ziggy but 72 was the year i was born!!
Get this cd up at full volume and if you have it ,through surround sound it sounds as if you are actually there.


Ziggy: warts and all, 13 Jul 2008
A bit of a holy grail for Bowie fans, this is identical to the earlier CD release back in the 90's so if you already have then that don't buy this. That said any self-respecting Bowiephile should have a copy of this in their collection.

It's not perfect: what you get here comes complete with technical hiccups, Mick Ronson's flat backing vocals and bum guitar notes, and Bowie's attempt to recreate the 'lift off' section from Space Oddity ranks alongside The Laughing Gnome as a truly cringe-worthy moment. But what you also get is the definitive historical record of Ziggy in his most formative and creative period. When Bowie introduces one number with "This song was written by Ziggy" he's not kidding. At the time he recorded this he was living and breathing his most famous creation.

And there are some very special moments, too. Acoustic versions of My Death and Andy Warhol stand out, the latter adopting an eerie quality lacking in the Ken Scott studio production. All in all this is THE definitive Ziggy live album, rivalled only by the original bootleg versions of 'last' show at Hammersmith Odeon the following year.



Voice of an Angel, 01 Aug 2008
Josh Groban has an absolutely beautiful voice - a singer that steps on the line between baritone and tenor. It's quite an experience to listen to, and I got his album upon hearing great reviews from my friends who'd listened to him in America beforehand. Check him out, he is indeed very good. He has a very relaxing, lullaby-like tone - in a nutshell.

This is a compilation of Christmas songs, but, I (and hopefully, you) can listen to them any time of year - they're very relaxing. :)

Superb, 19 Jan 2008
This album is absolutely stunning and has already been said is the only Christmas album you will ever need. It goes without saying that Josh's voice is wonderful and is so perfect for these songs but the arrangements are absolutely superb. The tracks have been put down with such love and emotion and it really shows. I also love the duets because Josh is such a generous performer and brings the best out of everyone.

I feel sad for all the people who will never hear this album, and also for the fact that any one track should have been the Christmas Number one and not the x factor mediocrity we are subjected to every year.

A Josh G is not just for Christmas, 12 Jan 2008
This is a beautiful recording - all songs sung with such sensitivity. For such a young man he has it all!
Just slightly put off by the spoken "greetings" on "Home for Christmas" - I can never quite trust these Americanisms - but the songs are wonderful.Gorgeous to listen to at any time.

A TOUCH OF THE BLUES, 16 Dec 2007
I don't mean Rhythm & Blues I mean THE Blues, as that's what this album gave me when I played it.
Don't get me wrong I think Josh is great and have all his cd's but this Christmas cd I found rather depressing and was glad when it finally finished, where's the Christmas cheer Josh?

Outstanding from The Master!, 13 Dec 2007
Wow got this cd from the states a month ago and has been on ever since!
This Man has such a powerful and rich voice!
Just listen to the words of "Thankful" will really make you think!
Josh just gets better and better some great classic christmas songs! a must have for anyones collection!

A wonderful collection of songs - you'll not regret buying it!, 07 Jan 2008
I am biased of course because I love James Taylor's voice...! but this is sublime for a christmas feel anytime of the year...even if,like me, you are not vaguely religious, all the songs just feel 'right'!

Perfect Christmas music, 05 Jan 2008
I ordered this after hearing James Taylor singing a couple of the songs on a radio show. The CD is just beautiful and I have had it on almost non-stop since i bought it. Taylor has a lovely voice, the arrangements are wonderful and it evokes a really relaxing 'mince pies baking in the oven, snow falling outside' sort of atmosphere. Just perfect.

Love it!, 16 Dec 2007
It's beautiful. I can't stop listening to it. If I had to pick a favorite it would either be River or Baby It's Cold Outside. You can't go wrong with this CD.

Great for relaxing at Christmas, 04 Nov 2006
For any fan of James Taylor, Christmas albums, or simply excellent music this is a must buy. James Taylor has a very easy voice to listen to, and the majority of the songs are instantly recognizable. There are some beautiful vocals, which add to already well known songs. If, like me, you managed to get the Hallmark Christmas album from the US, 10 tracks are the same here (10 out of the 12 being on this, and Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas already being owned by fans who bought October Road a few years ago), the only "New" track to true JT fan is "River", but "Deck the Halls" is not on this new release, and was on the Hallmark version.
I've listened to this album(The Hallmark version) a lot since I bought it, and I'm already looking forward to the festive season, so that I can listen again.

great songs from a great boybands, 11 Jul 2006
some great songs like I'll Never Break Your Heart, All I Have To Give and As Long As You Love Me, but this band is average compare to "michael learns to rock"

the best of the backstreet boys, 11 May 2003
The ultimate Backstreet Boys album, bringing together all the hits that have become pop classics. It is hard to pick a favourite, because all are pure quality pop, but opener “I want it that way” and the gorgeous “I’ll never break your heart” almost win the title. The sixteen tracks take you on journey of a group who have matured their style without losing their pop sound or their boyband vibe, and of five men with amazing vocal talents. The majority of tracks on this album see the boys demonstrating these voices through slowies like “Drowning”, but there’s also the party classics “Everybody” and “Larger than Life”. If you’ve been a Backstreet Boys fan at any stage of their careers, or simply a fan of good quality, mature pop music, add this CD to your collection.

a must have for BSB fans, 31 Jul 2002
this is exactly what it says it is the greatest hits of one of the best boy bands of our time. it has all the hits from quit playing games to the latest drowning a great album for fans of the backstreet boys as it has all the favourites on it. this album would appeal to all but mainly to young girls who are into their boy bands!

The Greatest Hits from the Greatest Band in the World, 12 Nov 2001
Unlike other 'boybands' the Backstreet Boys have managed to last a lot longer than their critics had hoped. This collection of songs shows exactly why. They have the talent to diversify, not sticking with just ballads or up-tempo tunes. You can sing along with the anthems 'Everybody' and 'Larger Than Life', or smooch along to the songs 'Show me the Meaning' and 'More Than That' All in all, it's a great collection of hits, and every single song on this CD has been a hit for the boys. An ideal purchase for fans wanting a trip down memory lane or for those who have only just noticed the Backstreet Boys singing talents...

These guys are NOT a boy band!!!, 25 Oct 2001
This album features every single that the Backstreet Boys have released, including the brand new song, "Drowning".

I have been Backstreet fan since 1997 and so far none of their singles or albums have failed to disappoint.

Not all their songs are for 13 year old girls, actually the Backstreet Boys approach a more mature audience too, with the rich vocal harmonies in songs such as, "All I Have To Give", and "More Than That", it will appeal to the older generations as well as the younger ones.

This album is for everyone and if you listen to it, you'll see that these guys DO have talent and are more of a vocal group than anything else, due to their awesome vocal harmonies

A must for all, this WON'T dissappoint!! BUY IT NOW!!

Top shelf -Top class, 20 Aug 2008
Suprise I only have one Bowie album ( its true) Hunky Dory and to be honest I cant even say when the last time was that I played it, yea I have records and CD`s. so an old friend lent this to me to see if he could fire up my interest ,He being a Bowie follower the the last 30 ish years . stoke up the fire he did, I knew most of the tracks through him and radio etc but this recording is the Bowie band that I always wanted but never knew existed!! a bloody great rock and roll band why didnt I know, well I guess its my then mid seventies narrow mindedness exploring all these vertigo releases and almost anything my weekly music mag raved about `sounds` The last thing I think I would nt of been able to handle is be pointed over to the top 40 hits of Bowie, This is a revelation Have mercy!!( Thanks SHAUN ).I owe you one!

Great performance of iconic songs., 18 Jul 2008
I've not listened to Bowie for many years, but when I saw this had been released I decided to get it straight away. This was my favourite era, and I'm a big fan of live albums, seeing how well a small group can reproduce the songs on stage - and they certainly don't disappoint. The band wend their way through a brilliant 18-song set, ranging from the full-on rock of Suffragette City to a wonderful version of Space Oddity - just 2 vocals and a 12-string acoustic guitar. There are only one or two tracks which don't quite match up to the quality of the studio versions; but this is live music and you would expect that. The one thing that stops me giving this five stars is the sound quality and mix. Mostly it is very good, but frequently there are problems: Bowie's guitar is nearly always too quiet (almost inaudible, in fact) and his vocals are occasionally a bit lost in the mix, but my biggest complaint is that various sounds seem to wander over from one side of the stereo mix to the other during the songs, for no apparent reason - Ronson's guitar frequently does this, as do some of the vocals, which is really annoying. I've no idea of the sound source, but surely in this digital age something could have been done to fix it? The CD is nicely packaged in a small box, great artwork and lots of little goodies inside: postcards, booklet, etc. - a lot of effort has gone into this project - it's well worth the money.

Disappointingly inferior to Hammersmith Odean, 16 Jul 2008
The album may be much hyped but when I bought it I was deeply disappointed. Frankly I felt that none of the songs were performed any better than the farewell concert at Hammersmith Odean the following year, and some of them were considerably worse. Released as Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars: the Motion Picture Soundtrack, the Hammersmith Odean CD offers 20 tracks and they give a much better flavour of David Bowie and Mick Ronson at their very best. Buy that CD instead, or even better the DVD of the concert.

ZIGGY!!!!!, 13 Jul 2008
Brill cd,would recomend. i whish i could have been old enough to go and see Bowie as Ziggy but 72 was the year i was born!!
Get this cd up at full volume and if you have it ,through surround sound it sounds as if you are actually there.


Ziggy: warts and all, 13 Jul 2008
A bit of a holy grail for Bowie fans, this is identical to the earlier CD release back in the 90's so if you already have then that don't buy this. That said any self-respecting Bowiephile should have a copy of this in their collection.

It's not perfect: what you get here comes complete with technical hiccups, Mick Ronson's flat backing vocals and bum guitar notes, and Bowie's attempt to recreate the 'lift off' section from Space Oddity ranks alongside The Laughing Gnome as a truly cringe-worthy moment. But what you also get is the definitive historical record of Ziggy in his most formative and creative period. When Bowie introduces one number with "This song was written by Ziggy" he's not kidding. At the time he recorded this he was living and breathing his most famous creation.

And there are some very special moments, too. Acoustic versions of My Death and Andy Warhol stand out, the latter adopting an eerie quality lacking in the Ken Scott studio production. All in all this is THE definitive Ziggy live album, rivalled only by the original bootleg versions of 'last' show at Hammersmith Odeon the following year.



Voice of an Angel, 01 Aug 2008
Josh Groban has an absolutely beautiful voice - a singer that steps on the line between baritone and tenor. It's quite an experience to listen to, and I got his album upon hearing great reviews from my friends who'd listened to him in America beforehand. Check him out, he is indeed very good. He has a very relaxing, lullaby-like tone - in a nutshell.

This is a compilation of Christmas songs, but, I (and hopefully, you) can listen to them any time of year - they're very relaxing. :)

Superb, 19 Jan 2008
This album is absolutely stunning and has already been said is the only Christmas album you will ever need. It goes without saying that Josh's voice is wonderful and is so perfect for these songs but the arrangements are absolutely superb. The tracks have been put down with such love and emotion and it really shows. I also love the duets because Josh is such a generous performer and brings the best out of everyone.

I feel sad for all the people who will never hear this album, and also for the fact that any one track should have been the Christmas Number one and not the x factor mediocrity we are subjected to every year.

A Josh G is not just for Christmas, 12 Jan 2008
This is a beautiful recording - all songs sung with such sensitivity. For such a young man he has it all!
Just slightly put off by the spoken "greetings" on "Home for Christmas" - I can never quite trust these Americanisms - but the songs are wonderful.Gorgeous to listen to at any time.

A TOUCH OF THE BLUES, 16 Dec 2007
I don't mean Rhythm & Blues I mean THE Blues, as that's what this album gave me when I played it.
Don't get me wrong I think Josh is great and have all his cd's but this Christmas cd I found rather depressing and was glad when it finally finished, where's the Christmas cheer Josh?

Outstanding from The Master!, 13 Dec 2007
Wow got this cd from the states a month ago and has been on ever since!
This Man has such a powerful and rich voice!
Just listen to the words of "Thankful" will really make you think!
Josh just gets better and better some great classic christmas songs! a must have for anyones collection!

A wonderful collection of songs - you'll not regret buying it!, 07 Jan 2008
I am biased of course because I love James Taylor's voice...! but this is sublime for a christmas feel anytime of the year...even if,like me, you are not vaguely religious, all the songs just feel 'right'!

Perfect Christmas music, 05 Jan 2008
I ordered this after hearing James Taylor singing a couple of the songs on a radio show. The CD is just beautiful and I have had it on almost non-stop since i bought it. Taylor has a lovely voice, the arrangements are wonderful and it evokes a really relaxing 'mince pies baking in the oven, snow falling outside' sort of atmosphere. Just perfect.

Love it!, 16 Dec 2007
It's beautiful. I can't stop listening to it. If I had to pick a favorite it would either be River or Baby It's Cold Outside. You can't go wrong with this CD.

Great for relaxing at Christmas, 04 Nov 2006
For any fan of James Taylor, Christmas albums, or simply excellent music this is a must buy. James Taylor has a very easy voice to listen to, and the majority of the songs are instantly recognizable. There are some beautiful vocals, which add to already well known songs. If, like me, you managed to get the Hallmark Christmas album from the US, 10 tracks are the same here (10 out of the 12 being on this, and Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas already being owned by fans who bought October Road a few years ago), the only "New" track to true JT fan is "River", but "Deck the Halls" is not on this new release, and was on the Hallmark version.
I've listened to this album(The Hallmark version) a lot since I bought it, and I'm already looking forward to the festive season, so that I can listen again.

great songs from a great boybands, 11 Jul 2006
some great songs like I'll Never Break Your Heart, All I Have To Give and As Long As You Love Me, but this band is average compare to "michael learns to rock"

the best of the backstreet boys, 11 May 2003
The ultimate Backstreet Boys album, bringing together all the hits that have become pop classics. It is hard to pick a favourite, because all are pure quality pop, but opener “I want it that way” and the gorgeous “I’ll never break your heart” almost win the title. The sixteen tracks take you on journey of a group who have matured their style without losing their pop sound or their boyband vibe, and of five men with amazing vocal talents. The majority of tracks on this album see the boys demonstrating these voices through slowies like “Drowning”, but there’s also the party classics “Everybody” and “Larger than Life”. If you’ve been a Backstreet Boys fan at any stage of their careers, or simply a fan of good quality, mature pop music, add this CD to your collection.

a must have for BSB fans, 31 Jul 2002
this is exactly what it says it is the greatest hits of one of the best boy bands of our time. it has all the hits from quit playing games to the latest drowning a great album for fans of the backstreet boys as it has all the favourites on it. this album would appeal to all but mainly to young girls who are into their boy bands!

The Greatest Hits from the Greatest Band in the World, 12 Nov 2001
Unlike other 'boybands' the Backstreet Boys have managed to last a lot longer than their critics had hoped. This collection of songs shows exactly why. They have the talent to diversify, not sticking with just ballads or up-tempo tunes. You can sing along with the anthems 'Everybody' and 'Larger Than Life', or smooch along to the songs 'Show me the Meaning' and 'More Than That' All in all, it's a great collection of hits, and every single song on this CD has been a hit for the boys. An ideal purchase for fans wanting a trip down memory lane or for those who have only just noticed the Backstreet Boys singing talents...

These guys are NOT a boy band!!!, 25 Oct 2001
This album features every single that the Backstreet Boys have released, including the brand new song, "Drowning".

I have been Backstreet fan since 1997 and so far none of their singles or albums have failed to disappoint.

Not all their songs are for 13 year old girls, actually the Backstreet Boys approach a more mature audience too, with the rich vocal harmonies in songs such as, "All I Have To Give", and "More Than That", it will appeal to the older generations as well as the younger ones.

This album is for everyone and if you listen to it, you'll see that these guys DO have talent and are more of a vocal group than anything else, due to their awesome vocal harmonies

A must for all, this WON'T dissappoint!! BUY IT NOW!!

vigorously dramatic, and a typical recording, but not clear, 01 Jun 2008
In the same way that Naxos' New College Oxford recording of "Messiah" is an example of the English Cathedral tradition, this recording is a great sample of the choral society tradition. Although the recording includes some huge names from the world of classical music, I was not over-enthralled by the recording as a whole. The age of the recording (1966) is made obvious in the quality of sound, and the entire ensemble is too big to hear the words properly, and of course this is reflected in the acoustic. The presentation is acceptable, but there are few programme notes and no copy of the text. However, what this recording does have is drama and vigour in abundance.

Both the choir and orchestra sing well and accurately enough, and the soloists are OK too - it is probably Helen Watts who gives the best performance on this disc, especially in the aria "But who may abide", when the rich sonorities of her voice are fully demonstrated.

In many ways whichever Messiah recording one buys rests on what one is looking for. If you would like to hear a performance in the true choral society tradition - like one might hear every year in Huddersfield - then look no further, as this is the finest recording in that tradition. But if you would prefer a recording in the Cathedral tradition, look for Naxos' New College Oxford recording - a superbly accurate and precise recording with the Academy of Ancient Music, outstanding soloists, perfect acoustic, and a truly authentic Baroque performance (note, however, that this recording varies slightly from the score we know so well, as it is the composer's 1751 edition, although I found it to be even more enjoyable!)

To correct previous reviews, 07 Dec 2007
This recording was made in 1966, so is all the more remarkable, considering the plethera of recordings to date. John Wakefield is an unsual choice, with a suitable heroic ring to the voice. John Shirley-Quirk, as ever, brilliant, with Helen Watts a smooth and sonorous Contralto. The final soloist, Heather Harper is fresh and brilliant of sound. The whole direction by Sir Colin Davis, with the LSO is captivating. Do not miss this chance to own.

The best recording to date, 30 Oct 2007
Don't be put off by the fact that the original recording was made in the 1980s. It's been re-engineered and is simply top notch! This is by far the best recording I've ever come across. The fact that it's on a Phillips label doesn't hurt either. The orchestra (LSO)is just right--not too heavy, not too light, and the interpretations are superb. Can't go wrong with the label, the orchestra, or the composer.

Golden oldie, 10 Dec 2004
This is a CD version of an 80's recording which is so good I've stuck with it rather than going for a newer one. The LSO chorus are excellent, light-footed and accurate; Colin Davis takes them through some of the numbers at high speed but they make it sound easy (it isn't, as anyone who's sung Messiah will know). Helen Watts is a beautiful and moving alto soloist and John Shirley-Quirk is also outstanding.

Top shelf -Top class, 20 Aug 2008
Suprise I only have one Bowie album ( its true) Hunky Dory and to be honest I cant even say when the last time was that I played it, yea I have records and CD`s. so an old friend lent this to me to see if he could fire up my interest ,He being a Bowie follower the the last 30 ish years . stoke up the fire he did, I knew most of the tracks through him and radio etc but this recording is the Bowie band that I always wanted but never knew existed!! a bloody great rock and roll band why didnt I know, well I guess its my then mid seventies narrow mindedness exploring all these vertigo releases and almost anything my weekly music mag raved about `sounds` The last thing I think I would nt of been able to handle is be pointed over to the top 40 hits of Bowie, This is a revelation Have mercy!!( Thanks SHAUN ).I owe you one!

Great performance of iconic songs., 18 Jul 2008
I've not listened to Bowie for many years, but when I saw this had been released I decided to get it straight away. This was my favourite era, and I'm a big fan of live albums, seeing how well a small group can reproduce the songs on stage - and they certainly don't disappoint. The band wend their way through a brilliant 18-song set, ranging from the full-on rock of Suffragette City to a wonderful version of Space Oddity - just 2 vocals and a 12-string acoustic guitar. There are only one or two tracks which don't quite match up to the quality of the studio versions; but this is live music and you would expect that. The one thing that stops me giving this five stars is the sound quality and mix. Mostly it is very good, but frequently there are problems: Bowie's guitar is nearly always too quiet (almost inaudible, in fact) and his vocals are occasionally a bit lost in the mix, but my biggest complaint is that various sounds seem to wander over from one side of the stereo mix to the other during the songs, for no apparent reason - Ronson's guitar frequently does this, as do some of the vocals, which is really annoying. I've no idea of the sound source, but surely in this digital age something could have been done to fix it? The CD is nicely packaged in a small box, great artwork and lots of little goodies inside: postcards, booklet, etc. - a lot of effort has gone into this project - it's well worth the money.

Disappointingly inferior to Hammersmith Odean, 16 Jul 2008
The album may be much hyped but when I bought it I was deeply disappointed. Frankly I felt that none of the songs were performed any better than the farewell concert at Hammersmith Odean the following year, and some of them were considerably worse. Released as Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars: the Motion Picture Soundtrack, the Hammersmith Odean CD offers 20 tracks and they give a much better flavour of David Bowie and Mick Ronson at their very best. Buy that CD instead, or even better the DVD of the concert.

ZIGGY!!!!!, 13 Jul 2008
Brill cd,would recomend. i whish i could have been old enough to go and see Bowie as Ziggy but 72 was the year i was born!!
Get this cd up at full volume and if you have it ,through surround sound it sounds as if you are actually there.


Ziggy: warts and all, 13 Jul 2008
A bit of a holy grail for Bowie fans, this is identical to the earlier CD release back in the 90's so if you already have then that don't buy this. That said any self-respecting Bowiephile should have a copy of this in their collection.

It's not perfect: what you get here comes complete with technical hiccups, Mick Ronson's flat backing vocals and bum guitar notes, and Bowie's attempt to recreate the 'lift off' section from Space Oddity ranks alongside The Laughing Gnome as a truly cringe-worthy moment. But what you also get is the definitive historical record of Ziggy in his most formative and creative period. When Bowie introduces one number with "This song was written by Ziggy" he's not kidding. At the time he recorded this he was living and breathing his most famous creation.

And there are some very special moments, too. Acoustic versions of My Death and Andy Warhol stand out, the latter adopting an eerie quality lacking in the Ken Scott studio production. All in all this is THE definitive Ziggy live album, rivalled only by the original bootleg versions of 'last' show at Hammersmith Odeon the following year.



Voice of an Angel, 01 Aug 2008
Josh Groban has an absolutely beautiful voice - a singer that steps on the line between baritone and tenor. It's quite an experience to listen to, and I got his album upon hearing great reviews from my friends who'd listened to him in America beforehand. Check him out, he is indeed very good. He has a very relaxing, lullaby-like tone - in a nutshell.

This is a compilation of Christmas songs, but, I (and hopefully, you) can listen to them any time of year - they're very relaxing. :)

Superb, 19 Jan 2008
This album is absolutely stunning and has already been said is the only Christmas album you will ever need. It goes without saying that Josh's voice is wonderful and is so perfect for these songs but the arrangements are absolutely superb. The tracks have been put down with such love and emotion and it really shows. I also love the duets because Josh is such a generous performer and brings the best out of everyone.

I feel sad for all the people who will never hear this album, and also for the fact that any one track should have been the Christmas Number one and not the x factor mediocrity we are subjected to every year.

A Josh G is not just for Christmas, 12 Jan 2008
This is a beautiful recording - all songs sung with such sensitivity. For such a young man he has it all!
Just slightly put off by the spoken "greetings" on "Home for Christmas" - I can never quite trust these Americanisms - but the songs are wonderful.Gorgeous to listen to at any time.

A TOUCH OF THE BLUES, 16 Dec 2007
I don't mean Rhythm & Blues I mean THE Blues, as that's what this album gave me when I played it.
Don't get me wrong I think Josh is great and have all his cd's but this Christmas cd I found rather depressing and was glad when it finally finished, where's the Christmas cheer Josh?

Outstanding from The Master!, 13 Dec 2007
Wow got this cd from the states a month ago and has been on ever since!
This Man has such a powerful and rich voice!
Just listen to the words of "Thankful" will really make you think!
Josh just gets better and better some great classic christmas songs! a must have for anyones collection!

A wonderful collection of songs - you'll not regret buying it!, 07 Jan 2008
I am biased of course because I love James Taylor's voice...! but this is sublime for a christmas feel anytime of the year...even if,like me, you are not vaguely religious, all the songs just feel 'right'!

Perfect Christmas music, 05 Jan 2008
I ordered this after hearing James Taylor singing a couple of the songs on a radio show. The CD is just beautiful and I have had it on almost non-stop since i bought it. Taylor has a lovely voice, the arrangements are wonderful and it evokes a really relaxing 'mince pies baking in the oven, snow falling outside' sort of atmosphere. Just perfect.

Love it!, 16 Dec 2007
It's beautiful. I can't stop listening to it. If I had to pick a favorite it would either be River or Baby It's Cold Outside. You can't go wrong with this CD.

Great for relaxing at Christmas, 04 Nov 2006
For any fan of James Taylor, Christmas albums, or simply excellent music this is a must buy. James Taylor has a very easy voice to listen to, and the majority of the songs are instantly recognizable. There are some beautiful vocals, which add to already well known songs. If, like me, you managed to get the Hallmark Christmas album from the US, 10 tracks are the same here (10 out of the 12 being on this, and Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas already being owned by fans who bought October Road a few years ago), the only "New" track to true JT fan is "River", but "Deck the Halls" is not on this new release, and was on the Hallmark version.
I've listened to this album(The Hallmark version) a lot since I bought it, and I'm already looking forward to the festive season, so that I can listen again.

great songs from a great boybands, 11 Jul 2006
some great songs like I'll Never Break Your Heart, All I Have To Give and As Long As You Love Me, but this band is average compare to "michael learns to rock"

the best of the backstreet boys, 11 May 2003
The ultimate Backstreet Boys album, bringing together all the hits that have become pop classics. It is hard to pick a favourite, because all are pure quality pop, but opener “I want it that way” and the gorgeous “I’ll never break your heart” almost win the title. The sixteen tracks take you on journey of a group who have matured their style without losing their pop sound or their boyband vibe, and of five men with amazing vocal talents. The majority of tracks on this album see the boys demonstrating these voices through slowies like “Drowning”, but there’s also the party classics “Everybody” and “Larger than Life”. If you’ve been a Backstreet Boys fan at any stage of their careers, or simply a fan of good quality, mature pop music, add this CD to your collection.

a must have for BSB fans, 31 Jul 2002
this is exactly what it says it is the greatest hits of one of the best boy bands of our time. it has all the hits from quit playing games to the latest drowning a great album for fans of the backstreet boys as it has all the favourites on it. this album would appeal to all but mainly to young girls who are into their boy bands!

The Greatest Hits from the Greatest Band in the World, 12 Nov 2001
Unlike other 'boybands' the Backstreet Boys have managed to last a lot longer than their critics had hoped. This collection of songs shows exactly why. They have the talent to diversify, not sticking with just ballads or up-tempo tunes. You can sing along with the anthems 'Everybody' and 'Larger Than Life', or smooch along to the songs 'Show me the Meaning' and 'More Than That' All in all, it's a great collection of hits, and every single song on this CD has been a hit for the boys. An ideal purchase for fans wanting a trip down memory lane or for those who have only just noticed the Backstreet Boys singing talents...

These guys are NOT a boy band!!!, 25 Oct 2001
This album features every single that the Backstreet Boys have released, including the brand new song, "Drowning".

I have been Backstreet fan since 1997 and so far none of their singles or albums have failed to disappoint.

Not all their songs are for 13 year old girls, actually the Backstreet Boys approach a more mature audience too, with the rich vocal harmonies in songs such as, "All I Have To Give", and "More Than That", it will appeal to the older generations as well as the younger ones.

This album is for everyone and if you listen to it, you'll see that these guys DO have talent and are more of a vocal group than anything else, due to their awesome vocal harmonies

A must for all, this WON'T dissappoint!! BUY IT NOW!!

vigorously dramatic, and a typical recording, but not clear, 01 Jun 2008
In the same way that Naxos' New College Oxford recording of "Messiah" is an example of the English Cathedral tradition, this recording is a great sample of the choral society tradition. Although the recording includes some huge names from the world of classical music, I was not over-enthralled by the recording as a whole. The age of the recording (1966) is made obvious in the quality of sound, and the entire ensemble is too big to hear the words properly, and of course this is reflected in the acoustic. The presentation is acceptable, but there are few programme notes and no copy of the text. However, what this recording does have is drama and vigour in abundance.

Both the choir and orchestra sing well and accurately enough, and the soloists are OK too - it is probably Helen Watts who gives the best performance on this disc, especially in the aria "But who may abide", when the rich sonorities of her voice are fully demonstrated.

In many ways whichever Messiah recording one buys rests on what one is looking for. If you would like to hear a performance in the true choral society tradition - like one might hear every year in Huddersfield - then look no further, as this is the finest recording in that tradition. But if you would prefer a recording in the Cathedral tradition, look for Naxos' New College Oxford recording - a superbly accurate and precise recording with the Academy of Ancient Music, outstanding soloists, perfect acoustic, and a truly authentic Baroque performance (note, however, that this recording varies slightly from the score we know so well, as it is the composer's 1751 edition, although I found it to be even more enjoyable!)

To correct previous reviews, 07 Dec 2007
This recording was made in 1966, so is all the more remarkable, considering the plethera of recordings to date. John Wakefield is an unsual choice, with a suitable heroic ring to the voice. John Shirley-Quirk, as ever, brilliant, with Helen Watts a smooth and sonorous Contralto. The final soloist, Heather Harper is fresh and brilliant of sound. The whole direction by Sir Colin Davis, with the LSO is captivating. Do not miss this chance to own.

The best recording to date, 30 Oct 2007
Don't be put off by the fact that the original recording was made in the 1980s. It's been re-engineered and is simply top notch! This is by far the best recording I've ever come across. The fact that it's on a Phillips label doesn't hurt either. The orchestra (LSO)is just right--not too heavy, not too light, and the interpretations are superb. Can't go wrong with the label, the orchestra, or the composer.

Golden oldie, 10 Dec 2004
This is a CD version of an 80's recording which is so good I've stuck with it rather than going for a newer one. The LSO chorus are excellent, light-footed and accurate; Colin Davis takes them through some of the numbers at high speed but they make it sound easy (it isn't, as anyone who's sung Messiah will know). Helen Watts is a beautiful and moving alto soloist and John Shirley-Quirk is also outstanding.

A Christmas Cracker, 11 Mar 2007
I bought this a couple of years ago and return to it regularly - a sure sign of a good recording. I like the music of Vaughan Williams and this is a good example of his music. The Fantasia was a big surprise - its a lovely setting of some well known carols. John Barrow has a superb baritone voice. The Hodie takes a little more getting into but it is worth the effort. Both choirs and orchestra have good sounds. At this price you can't go wrong!

A most incredible, beautiful, and moving recording, 03 Mar 2002
I first became aware of Hodie when I performed the work in high school. While it is true that Vaughn-Williams does use a variety of styles, this is much more than a compendium of musical approaches. Each style is well chosen to provide an appropriate context for the words in a way matched by few composers - intimate in "The Oxen", hushed and reverential in "No sad thought his soul affright", and imposing and even majesterial in "The March of the Three Kings". I can't imagine how anyone could listen to the Epilogue (especially as performed here) with it's quoting of the beginning of St. John's gospel without being utterly moved.

Because of the beauty of the work (only a critic would give it "bad press") and the quality of the performance, it quickly became one of my most beloved recordings, defining for me how this work should be performed just as Karl Richter's Mass in b Minor and Colin Davis's Mozart Requiem have. The singers all have incredibly beautiful voices and each use their voice very sensitively. Just listen to John Shirley-Quirk's simple yet eloquent singing in "The Oxen", describing the animals in the manger on their knees or Janet Baker's "Lullaby" with a beauty that can bring tears to your eyes. Richard Lewis likewise provides a good range from the heroic to the sensitive - one of the best performances of his I have heard. The choral work is likewise fantastic. I have been searching for this work on CD for years to replace my well-loved but somewhat worn-out LP copy and am delighted that it is finally available. If you love choral music, Vaughn-Williams's work, or just appreciate beautiful singing, I would strongly urge you to purchase this recording while it is still available.

When he was growing up, Andrea Bocelli recalls finding inspiration in a favourite recording of sacred music performed by tenor legend Franco Corelli. Bocelli--who in the meantime has come to inspire millions of fiercely loyal fans himself--returns to the genre as the guiding theme of Sacred Arias, the release of which coincides with the first major English-language biography of the singer. These performances are filled with the singer's phenomenally well-known vocal signature: his flair for long, sweetly floating high notes and the gentle sense of cadence he brings to a melody. It's a mistake to compartmentalise Bocelli into a singer of "operatic" versus "popular" styles: in truth his approach is at heart the same. Lack of colour and control in his phrasing remains a drawback, but the emotional empathy Bocelli evokes is never in doubt. The arias collected here sample some of the most famous devotional pieces: Schubert's "Ave Maria" and Mozart's transporting "Ave Verum," as well as an arrangement of "Silent Night" in which Bocelli tries out his English. There's also a decidedly odd choice of bedfellows for a programme of "sacred" music, such as a song from Wagner's Wesendonck Lieder (whose "angel" is the object of an overpoweringly erotic attraction) and Handel's figurative ode to a tree, "Ombra mai fu". Still, Bocelli sings with an unfeigned directness that is sure to expand his already enormous following even further. --Thomas May

Top shelf -Top class, 20 Aug 2008
Suprise I only have one Bowie album ( its true) Hunky Dory and to be honest I cant even say when the last time was that I played it, yea I have records and CD`s. so an old friend lent this to me to see if he could fire up my interest ,He being a Bowie follower the the last 30 ish years . stoke up the fire he did, I knew most of the tracks through him and radio etc but this recording is the Bowie band that I always wanted but never knew existed!! a bloody great rock and roll band why didnt I know, well I guess its my then mid seventies narrow mindedness exploring all these vertigo releases and almost anything my weekly music mag raved about `sounds` The last thing I think I would nt of been able to handle is be pointed over to the top 40 hits of Bowie, This is a revelation Have mercy!!( Thanks SHAUN ).I owe you one!

Great performance of iconic songs., 18 Jul 2008
I've not listened to Bowie for many years, but when I saw this had been released I decided to get it straight away. This was my favourite era, and I'm a big fan of live albums, seeing how well a small group can reproduce the songs on stage - and they certainly don't disappoint. The band wend their way through a brilliant 18-song set, ranging from the full-on rock of Suffragette City to a wonderful version of Space Oddity - just 2 vocals and a 12-string acoustic guitar. There are only one or two tracks which don't quite match up to the quality of the studio versions; but this is live music and you would expect that. The one thing that stops me giving this five stars is the sound quality and mix. Mostly it is very good, but frequently there are problems: Bowie's guitar is nearly always too quiet (almost inaudible, in fact) and his vocals are occasionally a bit lost in the mix, but my biggest complaint is that various sounds seem to wander over from one side of the stereo mix to the other during the songs, for no apparent reason - Ronson's guitar frequently does this, as do some of the vocals, which is really annoying. I've no idea of the sound source, but surely in this digital age something could have been done to fix it? The CD is nicely packaged in a small box, great artwork and lots of little goodies inside: postcards, booklet, etc. - a lot of effort has gone into this project - it's well worth the money.

Disappointingly inferior to Hammersmith Odean, 16 Jul 2008
The album may be much hyped but when I bought it I was deeply disappointed. Frankly I felt that none of the songs were performed any better than the farewell concert at Hammersmith Odean the following year, and some of them were considerably worse. Released as Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars: the Motion Picture Soundtrack, the Hammersmith Odean CD offers 20 tracks and they give a much better flavour of David Bowie and Mick Ronson at their very best. Buy that CD instead, or even better the DVD of the concert.

ZIGGY!!!!!, 13 Jul 2008
Brill cd,would recomend. i whish i could have been old enough to go and see Bowie as Ziggy but 72 was the year i was born!!
Get this cd up at full volume and if you have it ,through surround sound it sounds as if you are actually there.


Ziggy: warts and all, 13 Jul 2008
A bit of a holy grail for Bowie fans, this is identical to the earlier CD release back in the 90's so if you already have then that don't buy this. That said any self-respecting Bowiephile should have a copy of this in their collection.

It's not perfect: what you get here comes complete with technical hiccups, Mick Ronson's flat backing vocals and bum guitar notes, and Bowie's attempt to recreate the 'lift off' section from Space Oddity ranks alongside The Laughing Gnome as a truly cringe-worthy moment. But what you also get is the definitive historical record of Ziggy in his most formative and creative period. When Bowie introduces one number with "This song was written by Ziggy" he's not kidding. At the time he recorded this he was living and breathing his most famous creation.

And there are some very special moments, too. Acoustic versions of My Death and Andy Warhol stand out, the latter adopting an eerie quality lacking in the Ken Scott studio production. All in all this is THE definitive Ziggy live album, rivalled only by the original bootleg versions of 'last' show at Hammersmith Odeon the following year.



Voice of an Angel, 01 Aug 2008
Josh Groban has an absolutely beautiful voice - a singer that steps on the line between baritone and tenor. It's quite an experience to listen to, and I got his album upon hearing great reviews from my friends who'd listened to him in America beforehand. Check him out, he is indeed very good. He has a very relaxing, lullaby-like tone - in a nutshell.

This is a compilation of Christmas songs, but, I (and hopefully, you) can listen to them any time of year - they're very relaxing. :)

Superb, 19 Jan 2008
This album is absolutely stunning and has already been said is the only Christmas album you will ever need. It goes without saying that Josh's voice is wonderful and is so perfect for these songs but the arrangements are absolutely superb. The tracks have been put down with such love and emotion and it really shows. I also love the duets because Josh is such a generous performer and brings the best out of everyone.

I feel sad for all the people who will never hear this album, and also for the fact that any one track should have been the Christmas Number one and not the x factor mediocrity we are subjected to every year.

A Josh G is not just for Christmas, 12 Jan 2008
This is a beautiful recording - all songs sung with such sensitivity. For such a young man he has it all!
Just slightly put off by the spoken "greetings" on "Home for Christmas" - I can never quite trust these Americanisms - but the songs are wonderful.Gorgeous to listen to at any time.

A TOUCH OF THE BLUES, 16 Dec 2007
I don't mean Rhythm & Blues I mean THE Blues, as that's what this album gave me when I played it.
Don't get me wrong I think Josh is great and have all his cd's but this Christmas cd I found rather depressing and was glad when it finally finished, where's the Christmas cheer Josh?

Outstanding from The Master!, 13 Dec 2007
Wow got this cd from the states a month ago and has been on ever since!
This Man has such a powerful and rich voice!
Just listen to the words of "Thankful" will really make you think!
Josh just gets better and better some great classic christmas songs! a must have for anyones collection!

A wonderful collection of songs - you'll not regret buying it!, 07 Jan 2008
I am biased of course because I love James Taylor's voice...! but this is sublime for a christmas feel anytime of the year...even if,like me, you are not vaguely religious, all the songs just feel 'right'!

Perfect Christmas music, 05 Jan 2008
I ordered this after hearing James Taylor singing a couple of the songs on a radio show. The CD is just beautiful and I have had it on almost non-stop since i bought it. Taylor has a lovely voice, the arrangements are wonderful and it evokes a really relaxing 'mince pies baking in the oven, snow falling outside' sort of atmosphere. Just perfect.

Love it!, 16 Dec 2007
It's beautiful. I can't stop listening to it. If I had to pick a favorite it would either be River or Baby It's Cold Outside. You can't go wrong with this CD.

Great for relaxing at Christmas, 04 Nov 2006
For any fan of James Taylor, Christmas albums, or simply excellent music this is a must buy. James Taylor has a very easy voice to listen to, and the majority of the songs are instantly recognizable. There are some beautiful vocals, which add to already well known songs. If, like me, you managed to get the Hallmark Christmas album from the US, 10 tracks are the same here (10 out of the 12 being on this, and Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas already being owned by fans who bought October Road a few years ago), the only "New" track to true JT fan is "River", but "Deck the Halls" is not on this new release, and was on the Hallmark version.
I've listened to this album(The Hallmark version) a lot since I bought it, and I'm already looking forward to the festive season, so that I can listen again.

great songs from a great boybands, 11 Jul 2006
some great songs like I'll Never Break Your Heart, All I Have To Give and As Long As You Love Me, but this band is average compare to "michael learns to rock"

the best of the backstreet boys, 11 May 2003
The ultimate Backstreet Boys album, bringing together all the hits that have become pop classics. It is hard to pick a favourite, because all are pure quality pop, but opener “I want it that way” and the gorgeous “I’ll never break your heart” almost win the title. The sixteen tracks take you on journey of a group who have matured their style without losing their pop sound or their boyband vibe, and of five men with amazing vocal talents. The majority of tracks on this album see the boys demonstrating these voices through slowies like “Drowning”, but there’s also the party classics “Everybody” and “Larger than Life”. If you’ve been a Backstreet Boys fan at any stage of their careers, or simply a fan of good quality, mature pop music, add this CD to your collection.

a must have for BSB fans, 31 Jul 2002
this is exactly what it says it is the greatest hits of one of the best boy bands of our time. it has all the hits from quit playing games to the latest drowning a great album for fans of the backstreet boys as it has all the favourites on it. this album would appeal to all but mainly to young girls who are into their boy bands!

The Greatest Hits from the Greatest Band in the World, 12 Nov 2001
Unlike other 'boybands' the Backstreet Boys have managed to last a lot longer than their critics had hoped. This collection of songs shows exactly why. They have the talent to diversify, not sticking with just ballads or up-tempo tunes. You can sing along with the anthems 'Everybody' and 'Larger Than Life', or smooch along to the songs 'Show me the Meaning' and 'More Than That' All in all, it's a great collection of hits, and every single song on this CD has been a hit for the boys. An ideal purchase for fans wanting a trip down memory lane or for those who have only just noticed the Backstreet Boys singing talents...

These guys are NOT a boy band!!!, 25 Oct 2001
This album features every single that the Backstreet Boys have released, including the brand new song, "Drowning".

I have been Backstreet fan since 1997 and so far none of their singles or albums have failed to disappoint.

Not all their songs are for 13 year old girls, actually the Backstreet Boys approach a more mature audience too, with the rich vocal harmonies in songs such as, "All I Have To Give", and "More Than That", it will appeal to the older generations as well as the younger ones.

This album is for everyone and if you listen to it, you'll see that these guys DO have talent and are more of a vocal group than anything else, due to their awesome vocal harmonies

A must for all, this WON'T dissappoint!! BUY IT NOW!!

vigorously dramatic, and a typical recording, but not clear, 01 Jun 2008
In the same way that Naxos' New College Oxford recording of "Messiah" is an example of the English Cathedral tradition, this recording is a great sample of the choral society tradition. Although the recording includes some huge names from the world of classical music, I was not over-enthralled by the recording as a whole. The age of the recording (1966) is made obvious in the quality of sound, and the entire ensemble is too big to hear the words properly, and of course this is reflected in the acoustic. The presentation is acceptable, but there are few programme notes and no copy of the text. However, what this recording does have is drama and vigour in abundance.

Both the choir and orchestra sing well and accurately enough, and the soloists are OK too - it is probably Helen Watts who gives the best performance on this disc, especially in the aria "But who may abide", when the rich sonorities of her voice are fully demonstrated.

In many ways whichever Messiah recording one buys rests on what one is looking for. If you would like to hear a performance in the true choral society tradition - like one might hear every year in Huddersfield - then look no further, as this is the finest recording in that tradition. But if you would prefer a recording in the Cathedral tradition, look for Naxos' New College Oxford recording - a superbly accurate and precise recording with the Academy of Ancient Music, outstanding soloists, perfect acoustic, and a truly authentic Baroque performance (note, however, that this recording varies slightly from the score we know so well, as it is the composer's 1751 edition, although I found it to be even more enjoyable!)

To correct previous reviews, 07 Dec 2007
This recording was made in 1966, so is all the more remarkable, considering the plethera of recordings to date. John Wakefield is an unsual choice, with a suitable heroic ring to the voice. John Shirley-Quirk, as ever, brilliant, with Helen Watts a smooth and sonorous Contralto. The final soloist, Heather Harper is fresh and brilliant of sound. The whole direction by Sir Colin Davis, with the LSO is captivating. Do not miss this chance to own.

The best recording to date, 30 Oct 2007
Don't be put off by the fact that the original recording was made in the 1980s. It's been re-engineered and is simply top notch! This is by far the best recording I've ever come across. The fact that it's on a Phillips label doesn't hurt either. The orchestra (LSO)is just right--not too heavy, not too light, and the interpretations are superb. Can't go wrong with the label, the orchestra, or the composer.

Golden oldie, 10 Dec 2004
This is a CD version of an 80's recording which is so good I've stuck with it rather than going for a newer one. The LSO chorus are excellent, light-footed and accurate; Colin Davis takes them through some of the numbers at high speed but they make it sound easy (it isn't, as anyone who's sung Messiah will know). Helen Watts is a beautiful and moving alto soloist and John Shirley-Quirk is also outstanding.

A Christmas Cracker, 11 Mar 2007
I bought this a couple of years ago and return to it regularly - a sure sign of a good recording. I like the music of Vaughan Williams and this is a good example of his music. The Fantasia was a big surprise - its a lovely setting of some well known carols. John Barrow has a superb baritone voice. The Hodie takes a little more getting into but it is worth the effort. Both choirs and orchestra have good sounds. At this price you can't go wrong!

A most incredible, beautiful, and moving recording, 03 Mar 2002
I first became aware of Hodie when I performed the work in high school. While it is true that Vaughn-Williams does use a variety of styles, this is much more than a compendium of musical approaches. Each style is well chosen to provide an appropriate context for the words in a way matched by few composers - intimate in "The Oxen", hushed and reverential in "No sad thought his soul affright", and imposing and even majesterial in "The March of the Three Kings". I can't imagine how anyone could listen to the Epilogue (especially as performed here) with it's quoting of the beginning of St. John's gospel without being utterly moved.

Because of the beauty of the work (only a critic would give it "bad press") and the quality of the performance, it quickly became one of my most beloved recordings, defining for me how this work should be performed just as Karl Richter's Mass in b Minor and Colin Davis's Mozart Requiem have. The singers all have incredibly beautiful voices and each use their voice very sensitively. Just listen to John Shirley-Quirk's simple yet eloquent singing in "The Oxen", describing the animals in the manger on their knees or Janet Baker's "Lullaby" with a beauty that can bring tears to your eyes. Richard Lewis likewise provides a good range from the heroic to the sensitive - one of the best performances of his I have heard. The choral work is likewise fantastic. I have been searching for this work on CD for years to replace my well-loved but somewhat worn-out LP copy and am delighted that it is finally available. If you love choral music, Vaughn-Williams's work, or just appreciate beautiful singing, I would strongly urge you to purchase this recording while it is still available.

A Gift, 12 Dec 2007
A CD that has so much beauty it moves you from beginning to end. His voice portrays so much emotion that you don't just appreciate the sound, you feel every note that he sings.

There are some CDs that are simply labelled "mood music", and this for me is one that I file under such a category. Every time I listen it lifts me and transports me to places only I can go to. Somewhere that escapes the modern world.

The choice of arias is perfect. Many of which I was unfamiliar with. However, I have since introduced this CD to a number of people, many who listen to an entirely different genre of music; nearly all have been captivated by it.

All I can say is buy it and soak up the rich fare on offer.


And I haven't got the CD yet!, 09 May 2006
I have just listened to the concert, on ITV3, from which this recording was taken. I was almost moved to tears; the empathy that Andrea brings to pieces with which I was brought up, both musically and spiritually, was a joy.
My only regret is that they have, in order to market a 'Bocelli' CD, missed off the choral works that did not include him. They, too, were magnificent and if the whole concert becomes available on DVD I will certainly buy that also.

beautiful voice, 25 Aug 2002
Quite simply Andrea Bocellie's Sacres Arias is a stunning piece of work. Andrea has a beautiful voice. He moves me. Anybody who loves this sort of music will become totally entranced with this. I am often moved to tears when i play Andrea's voice. I would highly recemmend this cd.

Way to go, Chung! Andrea Bocelli is DA BOMB!!!!!, 26 Nov 2000
Personally, my taste leans toward Andrea's lovely pop side, but I still like this album very much for some reason. Though it lacks some elements that made "Romanza" a sensational hit, Andrea and Chung do what they can to keep this s**t together without ever letting it go. And, as a result, it works practically all around, unlike the occasional downfalls on "Verdi," a later release.

That's all, folks!

After "Romanza" I was not quite so keen on "Opera Arias", 15 Aug 2000
After "Romanza" I was not quite so keen on "Opera Arias", I dont think that the recording quite captured the fine voice of Andrea Bocelli, however I am not put off, and will go on to look for more CD's with more of his songs.

The John Rutter Collection brings together 22 pieces by one of the most popular choral composers of our time, compiled from several discs already released on the Collegium Label. All performed by The Cambridge Singers, the choir which Rutter founded back in 1981, the tracks range from the joyous "Shepherd's pipe carol" of 1966 to the 1995 setting of Philip Sidney's poem "My true love hath my hear" from Birthday Madrigals.

The disc opens with one of Rutter's best-known works, the timeless "For the beauty of the earth" and also includes his settings of Psalm 23 and "All things bright and beautiful"--popular with choirs and audiences alike--as well as two movements each from his Magnificat and Requiem. Most tracks are accompanied by the City of London Orchestra, breathing new life into works which are normally heard with piano accompaniment.

In his sleeve note, Rutter reminds us that he stood next to John Tavener in school choir; how extraordinary that these two boys would go on to have the international success that they have. And while Rutter will always have his detractors, one cannot help but admire the sense of joy and wonder encapsulated in each small but perfectly formed musical gem. --Rebecca Agnew

Top shelf -Top class, 20 Aug 2008
Suprise I only have one Bowie album ( its true) Hunky Dory and to be honest I cant even say when the last time was that I played it, yea I have records and CD`s. so an old friend lent this to me to see if he could fire up my interest ,He being a Bowie follower the the last 30 ish years . stoke up the fire he did, I knew most of the tracks through him and radio etc but this recording is the Bowie band that I always wanted but never knew existed!! a bloody great rock and roll band why didnt I know, well I guess its my then mid seventies narrow mindedness exploring all these vertigo releases and almost anything my weekly music mag raved about `sounds` The last thing I think I would nt of been able to handle is be pointed over to the top 40 hits of Bowie, This is a revelation Have mercy!!( Thanks SHAUN ).I owe you one!

Great performance of iconic songs., 18 Jul 2008
I've not listened to Bowie for many years, but when I saw this had been released I decided to get it straight away. This was my favourite era, and I'm a big fan of live albums, seeing how well a small group can reproduce the songs on stage - and they certainly don't disappoint. The band wend their way through a brilliant 18-song set, ranging from the full-on rock of Suffragette City to a wonderful version of Space Oddity - just 2 vocals and a 12-string acoustic guitar. There are only one or two tracks which don't quite match up to the quality of the studio versions; but this is live music and you would expect that. The one thing that stops me giving this five stars is the sound quality and mix. Mostly it is very good, but frequently there are problems: Bowie's guitar is nearly always too quiet (almost inaudible, in fact) and his vocals are occasionally a bit lost in the mix, but my biggest complaint is that various sounds seem to wander over from one side of the stereo mix to the other during the songs, for no apparent reason - Ronson's guitar frequently does this, as do some of the vocals, which is really annoying. I've no idea of the sound source, but surely in this digital age something could have been done to fix it? The CD is nicely packaged in a small box, great artwork and lots of little goodies inside: postcards, booklet, etc. - a lot of effort has gone into this project - it's well worth the money.

Disappointingly inferior to Hammersmith Odean, 16 Jul 2008
The album may be much hyped but when I bought it I was deeply disappointed. Frankly I felt that none of the songs were performed any better than the farewell concert at Hammersmith Odean the following year, and some of them were considerably worse. Released as Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars: the Motion Picture Soundtrack, the Hammersmith Odean CD offers 20 tracks and they give a much better flavour of David Bowie and Mick Ronson at their very best. Buy that CD instead, or even better the DVD of the concert.

ZIGGY!!!!!, 13 Jul 2008
Brill cd,would recomend. i whish i could have been old enough to go and see Bowie as Ziggy but 72 was the year i was born!!
Get this cd up at full volume and if you have it ,through surround sound it sounds as if you are actually there.


Ziggy: warts and all, 13 Jul 2008
A bit of a holy grail for Bowie fans, this is identical to the earlier CD release back in the 90's so if you already have then that don't buy this. That said any self-respecting Bowiephile should have a copy of this in their collection.

It's not perfect: what you get here comes complete with technical hiccups, Mick Ronson's flat backing vocals and bum guitar notes, and Bowie's attempt to recreate the 'lift off' section from Space Oddity ranks alongside The Laughing Gnome as a truly cringe-worthy moment. But what you also get is the definitive historical record of Ziggy in his most formative and creative period. When Bowie introduces one number with "This song was written by Ziggy" he's not kidding. At the time he recorded this he was living and breathing his most famous creation.

And there are some very special moments, too. Acoustic versions of My Death and Andy Warhol stand out, the latter adopting an eerie quality lacking in the Ken Scott studio production. All in all this is THE definitive Ziggy live album, rivalled only by the original bootleg versions of 'last' show at Hammersmith Odeon the following year.



Voice of an Angel, 01 Aug 2008
Josh Groban has an absolutely beautiful voice - a singer that steps on the line between baritone and tenor. It's quite an experience to listen to, and I got his album upon hearing great reviews from my friends who'd listened to him in America beforehand. Check him out, he is indeed very good. He has a very relaxing, lullaby-like tone - in a nutshell.

This is a compilation of Christmas songs, but, I (and hopefully, you) can listen to them any time of year - they're very relaxing. :)

Superb, 19 Jan 2008
This album is absolutely stunning and has already been said is the only Christmas album you will ever need. It goes without saying that Josh's voice is wonderful and is so perfect for these songs but the arrangements are absolutely superb. The tracks have been put down with such love and em