Any Marco Polo recordings you like or evaluate highly? Info on many, as well as single, discs are welcome.
My fav are below.
Easy! Has to be:
(https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/63kAAOSwk7Ve7PBU/s-l400.jpg)
Not because it is the best (although I still think parts of the choral work are better than any other versions) but because it was the first properly available commercial version. After all those years of being told ablout the "fabled Gothic Symphony" you could hear it for yourself - marvellous!
I've got a few of the Brian symphonies in their Marco Polo issues. They're pretty good. I quite like their series on Irish composers.
Quote from: Roasted Swan on April 13, 2021, 04:48:48 AM
Easy! Has to be:
(https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/63kAAOSwk7Ve7PBU/s-l400.jpg)
Not because it is the best (although I still think parts of the choral work are better than any other versions) but because it was the first properly available commercial version. After all those years of being told ablout the "fabled Gothic Symphony" you could hear it for yourself - marvellous!
I second this. The climax of the Vivace movement is the best too. I also love the Brian disc with 32, his last symphony.
(https://photos.imageevent.com/sgtrock/berlin/Brian32.jpg)
Sarge
Quote from: Roasted Swan on April 13, 2021, 04:48:48 AM
Easy! Has to be:
Not because it is the best (although I still think parts of the choral work are better than any other versions) but because it was the first properly available commercial version. After all those years of being told ablout the "fabled Gothic Symphony" you could hear it for yourself - marvellous!
Quote from: Sergeant Rock on April 13, 2021, 07:46:41 AM
I second this. The climax of the Vivace movement is the best too. I also love the Brian disc with 32, his last symphony.
Sarge
I didn't know about the Gothic Symphony, or no. 32, from Marco Polo. Definitely I will check them out. Thanks a lot for the info!
Off the top of my head the Braga Santos & Lyatoshinsky Symphony cycles would come first.
I'd add MP's Tournemire & Malipiero Symphony recordings as well if they were played better.
Also like the 4 Sauguet Symphonies.
Don't know the music nearly as well, but the Lajtha & Moyzes Symphonies would get my vote as worthwhile projects too.
Unusual to recommend a core rep piece, but the Romanian Radio & TV Orchestra delivers my favorite rendition of the Enescu Romanian Rhapsodies. Halfway through #1 listen out for the way the solo flutes are clearly spaced to the left and right to really play up the "duel" effect.
These two Marco Polo recordings that are indispensable for me:
(https://img.discogs.com/tPmIyeHgzoTDbi1g-f5V01watgo=/fit-in/600x600/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(90)/discogs-images/R-7915586-1465079000-1298.jpeg.jpg)
What makes this recording so important for me is that this is the ONLY recording I know of which contains Gênesis, which is described as being both a symphonic poem and ballet, but who really cares as it is absolutely magnificent and Duarte and his Slovak forces completely sound unhinged in this performance. Hell, just talking about it right now makes me want to drop everything and go listen to it. Also, the other works are just as inspired, endlessly fascinating and spirited. If you're a Villa-Lobos fan and you do not own this recording, then buy it NOW!
(https://albumart.primephonic.com/s900/0730099372022.jpg)
Again, like the recording above, this other V-L Duarte recording contains a work that you cannot find anywhere else: Rudá, "Dio d'amore". Again, like Gênesis, but also Erosão, it is a symphonic poem/ballet. This recording also contains a fine performance of Symphony No. 6, which was probably the first-time I ever heard this symphony. Another winner from Duarte and his Slovak forces.
Quote from: J on April 13, 2021, 05:05:17 PM
Off the top of my head the Braga Santos & Lyatoshinsky Symphony cycles would come first.
I'd add MP's Tournemire & Malipiero Symphony recordings as well if they were played better.
Also like the 4 Sauguet Symphonies.
Don't know the music nearly as well, but the Lajtha & Moyzes Symphonies would get my vote as worthwhile projects too.
Very much agree (nice thread by the way)
Sauguet: Symphony 1 'Expiatoire'
Brian: 'Gothic Symphony' for reasons mentioned by Roasted Swan (+ Symphony 17/'In Memoriam' as suggested by Sarge)
Miaskovsky: Symphony 6 (first commercial CD version in an underrated performance) + Symphony 12/Silence (Symphonic Poem after Poe)
Moyzes: Symphony 7
Lyatoshinsky symphonies
Kinsella: Symphony 3 and 4
Truscott: Symphony/Elegy
Holbrooke: Chamber music
Meulemans: 'Pliny's Fountain' etc
Braga Santos: symphonies 1 - 4
Avshalomoff: Symphony No.1
Arthur Benjamin: Symphony
Malipiero: symphonies 3 and 4
Tournemire: Symphony 3 'Moscow'
Quote from: Mirror Image on April 13, 2021, 07:03:44 PM
These two Marco Polo recordings that are indispensable for me:
(https://img.discogs.com/tPmIyeHgzoTDbi1g-f5V01watgo=/fit-in/600x600/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(90)/discogs-images/R-7915586-1465079000-1298.jpeg.jpg)
What makes this recording so important for me is that this is the ONLY recording I know of which contains Gênesis, which is described as being both a symphonic poem and ballet, but who really cares as it is absolutely magnificent and Duarte and his Slovak forces completely sound unhinged in this performance. Hell, just talking about it right now makes me want to drop everything and go listen to it. Also, the other works are just as inspired, endlessly fascinating and spirited. If you're a Villa-Lobos fan and you do not own this recording, then buy it NOW!
Well, I wish it was so easy. This disc is OOP. Amazon.de asks 38.69 € + shipping, but they aslo say:
Your selected delivery location is beyond seller's delivery coverage for this item. Please choose a different delivery location or purchase from another seller.
So, no I won't buy this. I simply can't!
Of course Naxos is not interested of re-releasing this.
Quote from: J on April 13, 2021, 05:05:17 PM
Off the top of my head the Braga Santos & Lyatoshinsky Symphony cycles would come first.
I'd add MP's Tournemire & Malipiero Symphony recordings as well if they were played better.
Also like the 4 Sauguet Symphonies.
Don't know the music nearly as well, but the Lajtha & Moyzes Symphonies would get my vote as worthwhile projects too.
How could I forget Braga Santos! +++1 Great music but also well played and recorded which - as you say re Tournemire - is not always a given with Marco Polo
Quote from: 71 dB on April 14, 2021, 04:54:47 AM
Of course Naxos is not interested of re-releasing this.
Never say never, Naxos is bringing out about 10 Marco Polo reissues per year now. This month it is an Adolphe Adam ballet, next month Marcel Poot, recently it was symphonies by Lajtha, Moyzes, and Lyatoshinsky. You may also find download copies.
Quote from: vandermolen on April 13, 2021, 09:54:58 PM
Very much agree (nice thread by the way)
Sauguet: Symphony 1 'Expiatoire'
Brian: 'Gothic Symphony' for reasons mentioned by Roasted Swan (+ Symphony 17/'In Memoriam' as suggested by Sarge)
Miaskovsky: Symphony 6 (first commercial CD version in an underrated performance) + Symphony 12/Silence (Symphonic Poem after Poe)
Moyzes: Symphony 7
Lyatoshinsky symphonies
Kinsella: Symphony 3 and 4
Truscott: Symphony/Elegy
Holbrooke: Chamber music
Meulemans: 'Pliny's Fountain' etc
Braga Santos: symphonies 1 - 4
Avshalomoff: Symphony No.1
Arthur Benjamin: Symphony
Malipiero: symphonies 3 and 4
Tournemire: Symphony 3 'Moscow'
Thank you, Jeffrey.
I like the Malipiero and Moyzes recordings too. You mentioned the Sauguet recording last year and I liked it as well. The cover art of Miaskovsky discs are awesome. I will get the discs as well as the Avshalomoff and Kinsella recordings.
Quote from: Mirror Image on April 13, 2021, 07:03:44 PM
These two Marco Polo recordings that are indispensable for me:
What makes this recording so important for me is that this is the ONLY recording I know of which contains Gênesis, which is described as being both a symphonic poem and ballet, but who really cares as it is absolutely magnificent and Duarte and his Slovak forces completely sound unhinged in this performance. Hell, just talking about it right now makes me want to drop everything and go listen to it. Also, the other works are just as inspired, endlessly fascinating and spirited. If you're a Villa-Lobos fan and you do not own this recording, then buy it NOW!
Again, like the recording above, this other V-L Duarte recording contains a work that you cannot find anywhere else: Rudá, "Dio d'amore". Again, like Gênesis, but also Erosão, it is a symphonic poem/ballet. This recording also contains a fine performance of Symphony No. 6, which was probably the first-time I ever heard this symphony. Another winner from Duarte and his Slovak forces.
Sounds very interesting. Nice review and very good writing, John. I will check out the recordings.
My pleasure DBK and thank you for starting this interesting thread.
2 more:
Godfried Devreese : Symphony 1 'Gothic' and 'In Memoriam'
Fanelli: 'The Romance of the Mummy'
Also, Bloch's fine Symphony in C was a great Marco Polo discovery but there are now several other recordings.
There was also the excellent film music series - highlights (for me) being the ones featuring Vaughan Williams's film scores (I still think that this is the best single disc of VW's film music), Auric's magical score for 'Beauty and the Beast', Waxman's 'Rebecca', Sainton's 'Moby Dick', Honegger's 'L'Idee' and Herrmann's 'Jane Eyre', fortunately these are now on Naxos.
One more - how could I forget Hilding Rosenberg's beautiful 'Holy Night' a Christmas Oratorio for Narrator, soloists, chorus and orchestra?
(//)
Quote from: Dry Brett Kavanaugh on April 14, 2021, 05:34:44 AM
Sounds very interesting. Nice review and very good writing, John. I will check out the recordings.
Thanks, Dry Brett. Do check these out. I'll be curious to know how you get along with the music.
Quote from: vandermolen on April 14, 2021, 05:44:22 AM
My pleasure DBK and thank you for starting this interesting thread.
2 more:
Godfried Devreese : Symphony 1 'Gothic' and 'In Memoriam'
Fanelli: 'The Romance of the Mummy'
Also, Bloch's fine Symphony in C was a great Marco Polo discovery but there are now several other recordings.
There was also the excellent film music series - highlights (for me) being the ones featuring Vaughan Williams's film scores (I still think that this is the best single disc of VW's film music), Auric's magical score for 'Beauty and the Beast', Waxman's 'Rebecca', Sainton's 'Moby Dick', Honegger's 'L'Idee' and Herrmann's 'Jane Eyre', fortunately these are now on Naxos.
Yes, I love the Devreese disc in question as well as the other one below.
I haven't heard of Fanelli or Rosenberg. Glad you mentioned them. I will look for the recordings as well as the discs of film music you suggested. They all look interesting and I am excited to listen to them. Thanks a lot, Jeffrey.
Quote from: Brian on April 14, 2021, 05:16:52 AM
Never say never, Naxos is bringing out about 10 Marco Polo reissues per year now. This month it is an Adolphe Adam ballet, next month Marcel Poot, recently it was symphonies by Lajtha, Moyzes, and Lyatoshinsky. You may also find download copies.
So if this re-release is #100 on the list of re-releases it will take only 10 years. ;D
Quote from: vandermolen on April 14, 2021, 06:29:13 AM
One more - how could I forget Hilding Rosenberg's beautiful 'Holy Night' a Christmas Oratorio for Narrator, soloists, chorus and orchestra?
How could Jeffrey forget this one.....!
(https://moviemusicuk.files.wordpress.com/2021/02/mobydick.jpg?w=584)
In fact I like a lot of the Marco Polo film music series. Some really interesting reconstructions by John Morgan and co. Also the Honegger/Ibert/Herrmann score interesting too
(https://d1iiivw74516uk.cloudfront.net/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJwcmVzdG8tY292ZXItaW1hZ2VzIiwia2V5IjoiODAxMDY3OS4xLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6MzAwfSwianBlZyI6eyJxdWFsaXR5Ijo2NX0sInRvRm9ybWF0IjoianBlZyJ9LCJ0aW1lc3RhbXAiOjE0Mzk4MDM5MDZ9)(https://d1iiivw74516uk.cloudfront.net/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJwcmVzdG8tY292ZXItaW1hZ2VzIiwia2V5IjoiODAxMDYwMy4xLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6MzAwfSwianBlZyI6eyJxdWFsaXR5Ijo2NX0sInRvRm9ybWF0IjoianBlZyJ9LCJ0aW1lc3RhbXAiOjE0MDE5ODI1NTd9)(https://img.discogs.com/M_DrQcWh6phHfMNdAZ_mNI_ys9s=/fit-in/300x300/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(40)/discogs-images/R-10249900-1608038267-4410.jpeg.jpg)
(https://d1iiivw74516uk.cloudfront.net/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJwcmVzdG8tY292ZXItaW1hZ2VzIiwia2V5IjoiODAxMDMxNC4xLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6MzAwfSwianBlZyI6eyJxdWFsaXR5Ijo2NX0sInRvRm9ybWF0IjoianBlZyJ9LCJ0aW1lc3RhbXAiOjE0MDE5ODI1NTd9)(https://d1iiivw74516uk.cloudfront.net/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJwcmVzdG8tY292ZXItaW1hZ2VzIiwia2V5IjoiODAxMDM2MC4xLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6MjAwfSwianBlZyI6eyJxdWFsaXR5Ijo2NX0sInRvRm9ybWF0IjoianBlZyJ9LCJ0aW1lc3RhbXAiOjE0MDE5ODI1NTd9)
Most of the Kinsella, Sauguet, Lajtha, Lyatoshinsky, Braga Santos and Tournemire orchestral recordings have not been challenged by other recorded companies. Considering many of these are out and out masterpieces they certainly are favourites.
A lot of recordings on Naxos originated on Marco Polo. My set of the Sauguet symphonies is on the Naxos Patrimoine label. The Lajtha symphonies can be found easily on Naxos. They, too, started life unde the aegis of MP.
Quote from: vandermolen on April 14, 2021, 05:44:22 AM
My pleasure DBK and thank you for starting this interesting thread.
2 more:
Godfried Devreese : Symphony 1 'Gothic' and 'In Memoriam'
Fanelli: 'The Romance of the Mummy'
Also, Bloch's fine Symphony in C was a great Marco Polo discovery but there are now several other recordings.
There was also the excellent film music series - highlights (for me) being the ones featuring Vaughan Williams's film scores (I still think that this is the best single disc of VW's film music), Auric's magical score for 'Beauty and the Beast', Waxman's 'Rebecca', Sainton's 'Moby Dick', Honegger's 'L'Idee' and Herrmann's 'Jane Eyre', fortunately these are now on Naxos.
Oops - missed your post when I mentioned the Sainton below - sorry!
Quote from: vandermolen on April 13, 2021, 09:54:58 PM
Very much agree (nice thread by the way)
Sauguet: Symphony 1 'Expiatoire'
Brian: 'Gothic Symphony' for reasons mentioned by Roasted Swan (+ Symphony 17/'In Memoriam' as suggested by Sarge)
Miaskovsky: Symphony 6 (first commercial CD version in an underrated performance) + Symphony 12/Silence (Symphonic Poem after Poe)
Moyzes: Symphony 7
Lyatoshinsky symphonies
Kinsella: Symphony 3 and 4
Truscott: Symphony/Elegy
Holbrooke: Chamber music
Meulemans: 'Pliny's Fountain' etc
Braga Santos: symphonies 1 - 4
Avshalomoff: Symphony No.1
Arthur Benjamin: Symphony
Malipiero: symphonies 3 and 4
Tournemire: Symphony 3 'Moscow'
We share some of these favorites, but I would also like to mention the Markovitch series, as well as the Alkan CDs, which were my introduction to Alkan. Although I have found better alternative recordings in most cases, they still hold a special place.
Quote from: Roasted Swan on April 14, 2021, 12:17:36 PM
How could Jeffrey forget this one.....!
(https://moviemusicuk.files.wordpress.com/2021/02/mobydick.jpg?w=584)
In fact I like a lot of the Marco Polo film music series. Some really interesting reconstructions by John Morgan and co. Also the Honegger/Ibert/Herrmann score interesting too
(https://d1iiivw74516uk.cloudfront.net/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJwcmVzdG8tY292ZXItaW1hZ2VzIiwia2V5IjoiODAxMDY3OS4xLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6MzAwfSwianBlZyI6eyJxdWFsaXR5Ijo2NX0sInRvRm9ybWF0IjoianBlZyJ9LCJ0aW1lc3RhbXAiOjE0Mzk4MDM5MDZ9)
(https://d1iiivw74516uk.cloudfront.net/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJwcmVzdG8tY292ZXItaW1hZ2VzIiwia2V5IjoiODAxMDYwMy4xLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6MzAwfSwianBlZyI6eyJxdWFsaXR5Ijo2NX0sInRvRm9ybWF0IjoianBlZyJ9LCJ0aW1lc3RhbXAiOjE0MDE5ODI1NTd9)(https://img.discogs.com/M_DrQcWh6phHfMNdAZ_mNI_ys9s=/fit-in/300x300/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(40)/discogs-images/R-10249900-1608038267-4410.jpeg.jpg)
(https://d1iiivw74516uk.cloudfront.net/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJwcmVzdG8tY292ZXItaW1hZ2VzIiwia2V5IjoiODAxMDMxNC4xLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6MzAwfSwianBlZyI6eyJxdWFsaXR5Ijo2NX0sInRvRm9ybWF0IjoianBlZyJ9LCJ0aW1lc3RhbXAiOjE0MDE5ODI1NTd9)(https://d1iiivw74516uk.cloudfront.net/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJwcmVzdG8tY292ZXItaW1hZ2VzIiwia2V5IjoiODAxMDM2MC4xLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6MjAwfSwianBlZyI6eyJxdWFsaXR5Ijo2NX0sInRvRm9ybWF0IjoianBlZyJ9LCJ0aW1lc3RhbXAiOjE0MDE5ODI1NTd9)
He didn't forget Sainton (see above) ;D
Nice to see the cover image - it is, indeed, a marvellous disc.
'My pleasure DBK and thank you for starting this interesting thread.
2 more:
Godfried Devreese : Symphony 1 'Gothic' and 'In Memoriam'
Fanelli: 'The Romance of the Mummy'
Also, Bloch's fine Symphony in C was a great Marco Polo discovery but there are now several other recordings.
There was also the excellent film music series - highlights (for me) being the ones featuring Vaughan Williams's film scores (I still think that this is the best single disc of VW's film music), Auric's magical score for 'Beauty and the Beast', Waxman's 'Rebecca',
Sainton's 'Moby Dick', Honegger's 'L'Idee' and Herrmann's 'Jane Eyre', fortunately these are now on Naxos.'
Quote from: springrite on April 14, 2021, 09:10:26 PM
We share some of these favorites, but I would also like to mention the Markovitch series, as well as the Alkan CDs, which were my introduction to Alkan. Although I have found better alternative recordings in most cases, they still hold a special place.
I should have mentioned him as well. Having said that, my favourite work of his by far was 'Icarus':
(//)
Quote from: vandermolen on April 14, 2021, 10:00:48 PM
I should have mentioned him as well. Having said that, my favourite work of his by far was 'Icarus':
(//)
Love that, and the Cantata is wonderful as well. Truth be told, I love them all. Markovitch may be another Stravinsky had he continued to compose.
Quote from: springrite on April 14, 2021, 10:04:06 PM
Love that, and the Cantata is wonderful as well. Truth be told, I love them all. Markovitch may be another Stravinsky had he continued to compose.
Yes, I agree Paul. I think that he was a most interesting and original composer. I shall need to re-visit those Marco Polo discs.
Quote from: springrite on April 14, 2021, 10:04:06 PM
Love that, and the Cantata is wonderful as well. Truth be told, I love them all. Markovitch may be another Stravinsky had he continued to compose.
The last movement of the Cantate, a short Choral: Lent et soutenu, on a beautiful text by Jean Cocteau never fails to tug on my heartstrings...
https://youtu.be/_HOJKcSZ1HQ
Idem for the final choral from Hilding Rosenbergs Den heliga natten :
https://youtu.be/0dc1qJgDjNI
And this cd needs some corrections.... :)
(https://www.chandos.net/artwork/MP3680.jpg)
The title of Devreese's ballet is Tombelène ( see: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tombelaine)
Vivaiane ??? happens to be cellist Viviane Spanoghe
Guido de Neve is violinist, Frédéric Devreese is the conductor.
Quote from: Mirror Image on April 13, 2021, 07:03:44 PM
These two Marco Polo recordings that are indispensable for me:
(https://img.discogs.com/tPmIyeHgzoTDbi1g-f5V01watgo=/fit-in/600x600/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(90)/discogs-images/R-7915586-1465079000-1298.jpeg.jpg)
(https://albumart.primephonic.com/s900/0730099372022.jpg)
A couple more Villa-Lobos discs from that series:
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61-Tj-j%2BNQL.jpg)
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51ZZAKVXDSL.jpg)
Live performance of Icarus by Markevitch:
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=7lOgQJm1vaU
Quote from: Roasted Swan on April 14, 2021, 12:17:36 PM
How could Jeffrey forget this one.....!
(https://moviemusicuk.files.wordpress.com/2021/02/mobydick.jpg?w=584)
In fact I like a lot of the Marco Polo film music series. Some really interesting reconstructions by John Morgan and co. Also the Honegger/Ibert/Herrmann score interesting too
(https://d1iiivw74516uk.cloudfront.net/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJwcmVzdG8tY292ZXItaW1hZ2VzIiwia2V5IjoiODAxMDY3OS4xLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6MzAwfSwianBlZyI6eyJxdWFsaXR5Ijo2NX0sInRvRm9ybWF0IjoianBlZyJ9LCJ0aW1lc3RhbXAiOjE0Mzk4MDM5MDZ9)
(https://d1iiivw74516uk.cloudfront.net/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJwcmVzdG8tY292ZXItaW1hZ2VzIiwia2V5IjoiODAxMDYwMy4xLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6MzAwfSwianBlZyI6eyJxdWFsaXR5Ijo2NX0sInRvRm9ybWF0IjoianBlZyJ9LCJ0aW1lc3RhbXAiOjE0MDE5ODI1NTd9)(https://img.discogs.com/M_DrQcWh6phHfMNdAZ_mNI_ys9s=/fit-in/300x300/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(40)/discogs-images/R-10249900-1608038267-4410.jpeg.jpg)
(https://d1iiivw74516uk.cloudfront.net/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJwcmVzdG8tY292ZXItaW1hZ2VzIiwia2V5IjoiODAxMDMxNC4xLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6MzAwfSwianBlZyI6eyJxdWFsaXR5Ijo2NX0sInRvRm9ybWF0IjoianBlZyJ9LCJ0aW1lc3RhbXAiOjE0MDE5ODI1NTd9)(https://d1iiivw74516uk.cloudfront.net/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJwcmVzdG8tY292ZXItaW1hZ2VzIiwia2V5IjoiODAxMDM2MC4xLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6MjAwfSwianBlZyI6eyJxdWFsaXR5Ijo2NX0sInRvRm9ybWF0IjoianBlZyJ9LCJ0aW1lc3RhbXAiOjE0MDE5ODI1NTd9)
Wow, very colorful and tempting! I will check these out. Thanks a lot for your suggestion. I didn't know any of these recordings.
Quote from: Dry Brett Kavanaugh on April 15, 2021, 07:22:16 AM
Wow, very colorful and tempting! I will check these out. Thanks a lot for your suggestion. I didn't know any of these recordings.
As someone else mentioned, a lot of these recordings have been re-released on Naxos - identical couplings etc. BUT, if you can find the original Marco Polo releases at a reasonable price, go for them because in these film music discs the booklets/documentation is a lot more extensive and interesting in the originals......
Quote from: Dry Brett Kavanaugh on April 15, 2021, 07:22:16 AM
Wow, very colorful and tempting! I will check these out. Thanks a lot for your suggestion. I didn't know any of these recordings.
Do check out 'Moby Dick', which is arguably Sainton's masterpiece (although I think that 'Nadir' is his greatest work).
Here is another disc which I enjoyed - especially the slow movement which I once saw described as composed by 'a Russian Delius of the Steppes'.
(//)
Quote from: Roasted Swan on April 15, 2021, 08:29:04 AM
because in these film music discs the booklets/documentation is a lot more extensive and interesting in the originals......
Good idea. I will look for them in the North America, Europe, Japan, etc.
Quote from: vandermolen on April 15, 2021, 08:57:46 AM
Do check out 'Moby Dick', which is arguably Sainton's masterpiece (although I think that 'Nadir' is his greatest work).
I will do so for both Moby Dick and Nadir.
Markevitch is one of my favorite conductors, but his music didn't sound accessible to me. I will try some of his discs again.
P.s. Honegger's film music looks interesting.
Quote from: Dry Brett Kavanaugh on April 15, 2021, 09:12:06 AM
Good idea. I will look for them in the North America, Europe, Japan, etc.
I will do so for both Moby Dick and Nadir.
Markevitch is one of my favorite conductors, but his music didn't sound accessible to me. I will try some of his discs again.
P.s. Honegger's film music looks interesting.
You can pick up a copy of the Naxos release of Moby Dick (same recording as the Marco Polo) relatively cheaply on Amazon.com. The Marco Polo issue will probably be very expensive now.
How could I forget these ones?
Oh, I see that Frankel is Naxos - was there no Marco Polo release?
Another great Marco Polo discovery:
(//)
Quote from: vandermolen on April 15, 2021, 01:53:41 PM
How could I forget these ones?
Both great discs - I
think the Frankel only ever appeared on Naxos so, Pendant Police at hand - not strictly allowed on this thread! ;)
Quote from: Roasted Swan on April 15, 2021, 01:56:56 PM
Both great discs - I think the Frankel only ever appeared on Naxos so, Pendant Police at hand - not strictly allowed on this thread! ;)
Yes, I just spotted that! (See above)
However, the Frankel is such a great score that I think it deserves inclusion. 8)
I listened to Tournemire: Moscow, and Fanelli via streaming. The both sound very good.
I will check other symphonies by Tournemire as well. Moscow was atmospheric and exotic.
As for Faneli disc, I prefered other works in the disc to the Mummy, but I may change my mind after a repeated listening.
I will check the film music suggested by you gents this weekend. So excited!
P.s. I just found the Marco Polo catalogue published 3 years ago.
https://www.naxos.com/sharedfiles/PDF/Marco-Polo_Catalogue_2018.pdf
Quote from: Dry Brett Kavanaugh on April 15, 2021, 02:21:19 PM
I listened to Tournemire: Moscow, and Fanelli via streaming. The both sound very good.
I will check other symphonies by Tournemire as well. Moscow was atmospheric and exotic.
As for Faneli disc, I prefered other works in the disc to the Mummy, but I may change my mind after a repeated listening.
I will check the film music suggested by you gents this weekend. So excited!
Keep us posted!
:)
I keep thinking of other ones. The Boydell was a great discovery:
Now available on NAXOS as of last month!
Nikolai Tcherepnin's ballet:
(https://d1iiivw74516uk.cloudfront.net/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJwcmVzdG8tY292ZXItaW1hZ2VzIiwia2V5IjoiODg2MTk3Mi4xLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTAwfSwianBlZyI6eyJxdWFsaXR5Ijo2NX0sInRvRm9ybWF0IjoianBlZyJ9LCJ0aW1lc3RhbXAiOjE2MTA5NTc2OTh9)
Quote from: Mirror Image on April 13, 2021, 07:03:44 PM
These two Marco Polo recordings that are indispensable for me:
(https://img.discogs.com/tPmIyeHgzoTDbi1g-f5V01watgo=/fit-in/600x600/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(90)/discogs-images/R-7915586-1465079000-1298.jpeg.jpg)
What makes this recording so important for me is that this is the ONLY recording I know of which contains Gênesis, which is described as being both a symphonic poem and ballet, but who really cares as it is absolutely magnificent and Duarte and his Slovak forces completely sound unhinged in this performance. Hell, just talking about it right now makes me want to drop everything and go listen to it. Also, the other works are just as inspired, endlessly fascinating and spirited. If you're a Villa-Lobos fan and you do not own this recording, then buy it NOW!
(https://albumart.primephonic.com/s900/0730099372022.jpg)
Again, like the recording above, this other V-L Duarte recording contains a work that you cannot find anywhere else: Rudá, "Dio d'amore". Again, like Gênesis, but also Erosão, it is a symphonic poem/ballet. This recording also contains a fine performance of Symphony No. 6, which was probably the first-time I ever heard this symphony. Another winner from Duarte and his Slovak forces.
John, thank you for the informative review on these fascinating recordings. I listened to them via streaming, and I found the music lively and penetrating. The recordings present energetic and transcendental music. The music is a juxtaposition of earthiness and sophistication. It is luminous and dark at the same time. These works in the two discs are very attractive while they maintain some mystery. I will check out other recordings of Villa-Lobos as well. Thank you for the recommendation.
In case anyone's wondering who doesn't already know, the cover artist for those two Villa-Lobos CD's is Frenchman Henri Rousseau, - one of my favorites.
Quote from: Dry Brett Kavanaugh on April 15, 2021, 05:41:03 PM
John, thank you for the informative review on these fascinating recordings. I listened to them via streaming, and I found the music lively and penetrating. The recordings present energetic and transcendental music. The music is a juxtaposition of earthiness and sophistication. It is luminous and dark at the same time. These works in the two discs are very attractive while they maintain some mystery. I will check out other recordings of Villa-Lobos as well. Thank you for the recommendation.
Excellent! I'm glad you enjoyed them, Dry Brett. 8) Villa-Lobos has remained one of my favorites and a lot of it is because each time I revisit his music, it sounds like the first-time I've heard it. There's always something new discover even if you've heard the same work 20 times already. Yes, do continue to explore his music! Our departed GMG member snyprrr once described Villa-Lobos as 'everything-but-the-kitchen sink jungle music' and I think in certain works, this is what it can sound like, but V-L always mixed things up and listening to his music is like going on an aural journey.
Quote from: Cato on April 15, 2021, 04:01:34 PM
Now available on NAXOS as of last month!
Nikolai Tcherepnin's ballet:
Nice disc!
Quote from: J on April 16, 2021, 07:42:13 AM
In case anyone's wondering who doesn't already know, the cover artist for those two Villa-Lobos CD's is Frenchman Henri Rousseau, - one of my favorites.
I was wondering about that. They are great, great art.
Quote from: Mirror Image on April 16, 2021, 07:48:49 AM
each time I revisit his music, it sounds like the first-time I've heard it. There's always something new discover even if you've heard the same work 20 times already.
I can definitely see that!
Quote from: Roasted Swan on April 14, 2021, 12:17:36 PM
How could Jeffrey forget this one.....!
(https://moviemusicuk.files.wordpress.com/2021/02/mobydick.jpg?w=584)
In fact I like a lot of the Marco Polo film music series. Some really interesting reconstructions by John Morgan and co. Also the Honegger/Ibert/Herrmann score interesting too
(https://d1iiivw74516uk.cloudfront.net/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJwcmVzdG8tY292ZXItaW1hZ2VzIiwia2V5IjoiODAxMDY3OS4xLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6MzAwfSwianBlZyI6eyJxdWFsaXR5Ijo2NX0sInRvRm9ybWF0IjoianBlZyJ9LCJ0aW1lc3RhbXAiOjE0Mzk4MDM5MDZ9)(https://d1iiivw74516uk.cloudfront.net/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJwcmVzdG8tY292ZXItaW1hZ2VzIiwia2V5IjoiODAxMDYwMy4xLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6MzAwfSwianBlZyI6eyJxdWFsaXR5Ijo2NX0sInRvRm9ybWF0IjoianBlZyJ9LCJ0aW1lc3RhbXAiOjE0MDE5ODI1NTd9)(https://img.discogs.com/M_DrQcWh6phHfMNdAZ_mNI_ys9s=/fit-in/300x300/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(40)/discogs-images/R-10249900-1608038267-4410.jpeg.jpg)
(https://d1iiivw74516uk.cloudfront.net/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJwcmVzdG8tY292ZXItaW1hZ2VzIiwia2V5IjoiODAxMDMxNC4xLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6MzAwfSwianBlZyI6eyJxdWFsaXR5Ijo2NX0sInRvRm9ybWF0IjoianBlZyJ9LCJ0aW1lc3RhbXAiOjE0MDE5ODI1NTd9)(https://d1iiivw74516uk.cloudfront.net/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJwcmVzdG8tY292ZXItaW1hZ2VzIiwia2V5IjoiODAxMDM2MC4xLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6MjAwfSwianBlZyI6eyJxdWFsaXR5Ijo2NX0sInRvRm9ybWF0IjoianBlZyJ9LCJ0aW1lc3RhbXAiOjE0MDE5ODI1NTd9)
Thank you, Roasted Swan and Jeffrey, for the interesting info on various film music.
I listened to the most of the recordings gents mentioned via streaming. While they all sounded unique and wonderful, I mostly enjoyed the recordings of Moby Dick, King's Thief etc., Jane Eyre, and Honegger. The discs of Moby Dick and King's Thief et al. present very colorful and vivacious music. Especially the Moby Dick is very dramatic and exciting, and the music swings and rocks. The Jane Eyre and Honegger don't have the colorfulness of the Moby Dick and King's Thief etc., but I found the compositions very strong.
In addition, the music of Ibert, Auric (atmospheric), Waxman, Copperfield/Roots of Heaven, Frankel (I love the art of Werewolf and the moon!), and Robin Hood (colorful) sound very attractive to me. They all are memorable and likable with strong themes and motifs. Plus, in the searching process, I incidentally found Arthur Bliss' Columbus Suite, which sounded excellent as well. As of now I prefer the four discs I mentioned, but it may change after a repeated listen, which is most likely to follow.
Also, I like the Sainton (Nadir and The Island), Kinsella and Boydell. They are unique and powerful music. RS, Jeffrey, and all other posters, thank you for your informative and surprising posts.
Quote from: Dry Brett Kavanaugh on April 18, 2021, 02:45:13 PM
Thank you, Roasted Swan and Jeffrey, for the interesting info on various film music.
I listened to the most of the recordings gents mentioned via streaming. While they all sounded unique and wonderful, I mostly enjoyed the recordings of Moby Dick, King's Thief etc., Jane Eyre, and Honegger. The discs of Moby Dick and King's Thief et al. present very colorful and vivacious music. Especially the Moby Dick is very dramatic and exciting, and the music swings and rocks. The Jane Eyre and Honegger don't have the colorfulness of the Moby Dick and King's Thief etc., but I found the compositions very strong.
In addition, the music of Ibert, Auric (atmospheric), Waxman, Copperfield/Roots of Heaven, Frankel (I love the art of Werewolf and the moon!), and Robin Hood (colorful) sound very attractive to me. They all are memorable and likable with strong themes and motifs. Plus, in the searching process, I incidentally found Arthur Bliss' Columbus Suite, which sounded excellent as well. As of now I prefer the four discs I mentioned, but it may change after a repeated listen, which is most likely to follow.
Also, I like the Sainton (Nadir and The Island), Kinsella and Boydell. They are unique and powerful music. RS, Jeffrey, and all other posters, thank you for your informative and surprising posts.
Am delighted that you enjoyed them DBK. I agree that 'Moby Dick' is a very special recording. How could I forget about Bliss? I love the Christopher Columbus Suite. I prefer the Naxos release cover:
One more to add to the Marco Polo/Film score series;
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/516r%2BYUXUGL._SX425_.jpg)(https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81MXyGeoB4L._SS500_.jpg)
This is a very colourful pair of scores. However, in this instance you MUST hear the Naxos re-release NOT the Marco Polo original. Here's an excerpt from a review;
In the late 80's and 90's Marco Polo had a preference for recording direct to stereo masters in the studio. There was a significant financial benefit to this process but of course did mean that there was no possibility in post-production of adjusting any balances. According to Adriano, he had a strained working relationship with the producer of the Stalingrad sessions (recorded some three years earlier the Othello) - Martin Sauer. Apparently Sauer was more interested in telling Adriano how to conduct than he was in monitoring the recording. As a consequence of which, a crucial off-stage trumpet section at the beginning of To Victory [track 5] was all but inaudible in the only/final mix. This had so infuriated Adriano that he had not sanctioned this disc's re-release. The reason it has now been made available again is because Adriano - at his own expense - returned to Bratislava and re-recorded this section. Remarkably, the same principal trumpeter is still in the post. Curiously, the cover of the disc makes no mention at all of this audio restoration/resurrection. Comparing the original and re-recorded versions it is clear that the new version is significantly better - with trumpets proudly prominent and excitingly brazen - equally impressive is the technical skill with which the two versions some twenty five years apart have been mixed together
Certainly a disc/score worth adding to the list........
Quote from: Roasted Swan on April 23, 2021, 11:52:51 PM
One more to add to the Marco Polo/Film score series;
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/516r%2BYUXUGL._SX425_.jpg)(https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81MXyGeoB4L._SS500_.jpg)
This is a very colourful pair of scores. However, in this instance you MUST hear the Naxos re-release NOT the Marco Polo original. Here's an excerpt from a review;
In the late 80's and 90's Marco Polo had a preference for recording direct to stereo masters in the studio. There was a significant financial benefit to this process but of course did mean that there was no possibility in post-production of adjusting any balances. According to Adriano, he had a strained working relationship with the producer of the Stalingrad sessions (recorded some three years earlier the Othello) - Martin Sauer. Apparently Sauer was more interested in telling Adriano how to conduct than he was in monitoring the recording. As a consequence of which, a crucial off-stage trumpet section at the beginning of To Victory [track 5] was all but inaudible in the only/final mix. This had so infuriated Adriano that he had not sanctioned this disc's re-release. The reason it has now been made available again is because Adriano - at his own expense - returned to Bratislava and re-recorded this section. Remarkably, the same principal trumpeter is still in the post. Curiously, the cover of the disc makes no mention at all of this audio restoration/resurrection. Comparing the original and re-recorded versions it is clear that the new version is significantly better - with trumpets proudly prominent and excitingly brazen - equally impressive is the technical skill with which the two versions some twenty five years apart have been mixed together
Certainly a disc/score worth adding to the list........
How could I forget the disc? I have the Naxos disc and love the music. Interesting about the overdub of trumpet section. I am glad Adriano did that. I assume other Naxos reissues of Marco Polo recordings sound exactly same without remastering. Btw, the ASV disc of Khachaturian film music is pretty good too.
I just found the catalogue of MP film music:
https://www.naxos.com/labels/marco_polo-list-film_music_classics.htm
Discs of Honegger, Hermann, Deutsch, Auric, and others look very interesting.
Also, the description of MP label by Naxos is below. I know you gents already know this, but I should have posted it on the 1st post.
Marco Polo
When the label was launched in 1982 it was the first label devoted to world premiere recordings mostly of repertoire from the second half of the 19th and the early part of the 20th century.
The recordings covered unknown works by well-known composers and the most important works of little-known or forgotten composers. Light classical music was also represented extensively. Landmark projects included the complete orchestral works of Johann Strauss II [on 52 CDs] and Josef Strauss [on 27 CDs], a wide range of British Light Music, and series devoted to Suppe, Waldteufel and others.
Quote from: Roasted Swan on April 23, 2021, 11:52:51 PM
One more to add to the Marco Polo/Film score series;
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/516r%2BYUXUGL._SX425_.jpg)(https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81MXyGeoB4L._SS500_.jpg)
This is a very colourful pair of scores. However, in this instance you MUST hear the Naxos re-release NOT the Marco Polo original. Here's an excerpt from a review;
In the late 80's and 90's Marco Polo had a preference for recording direct to stereo masters in the studio. There was a significant financial benefit to this process but of course did mean that there was no possibility in post-production of adjusting any balances. According to Adriano, he had a strained working relationship with the producer of the Stalingrad sessions (recorded some three years earlier the Othello) - Martin Sauer. Apparently Sauer was more interested in telling Adriano how to conduct than he was in monitoring the recording. As a consequence of which, a crucial off-stage trumpet section at the beginning of To Victory [track 5] was all but inaudible in the only/final mix. This had so infuriated Adriano that he had not sanctioned this disc's re-release. The reason it has now been made available again is because Adriano - at his own expense - returned to Bratislava and re-recorded this section. Remarkably, the same principal trumpeter is still in the post. Curiously, the cover of the disc makes no mention at all of this audio restoration/resurrection. Comparing the original and re-recorded versions it is clear that the new version is significantly better - with trumpets proudly prominent and excitingly brazen - equally impressive is the technical skill with which the two versions some twenty five years apart have been mixed together
Certainly a disc/score worth adding to the list........
That's most interesting RS. I have the Marco Polo, which didn't make a huge impression on me, but I will be tracking down the Naxos in due course. Thanks for the info.
Quote from: geralmar on April 30, 2021, 08:28:48 PM
(https://i.postimg.cc/8PKf2jDv/s-l400.jpg) (https://postimages.org/)
That's a fine disc which I should have mentioned earlier.
I will order the King Kong. Hope I won't pick a mirror up instead of the cd in my house.
I've been enjoying the recordings below this week.
Quote from: Dry Brett Kavanaugh on May 02, 2021, 11:25:12 AM
I will order the King Kong. Hope I won't pick a mirror up instead of the cd in my house.
I've been enjoying the recordings below this week.
I don't know the Friedhofer but like the Auric and Honegger very much.
Quote from: vandermolen on May 05, 2021, 02:25:27 AM
I don't know the Friedhofer but like the Auric and Honegger very much.
I find the Friedhofer's music (and the arrangement/orchestration) solid and very attractive :) :).
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_liilQGt71Kprr0cBP5N3jU2A4QWDmAQto
It appears that the famous fanfare theme for the Fox studio/movies was composed by him.
Have been enjoying this CD this morning. Amazing there are three CDs of Benjamin's marvellous (IMO) Symphony (his only one) from Lyndon-Gee with the Queensland SO, Wordsworth on Lyrita and one from Barbirolli as well. Of course I have them all ( ::)). The Lyrita is considered the best but I'm pleased to have the Lyndon-Gee and Barbirolli as well. The Marco Polo release is also mandatory for the moving 'Ballade for String Orchestra' which is otherwise unavailable (it has my favourite cover image as well). The Symphony is dedicated to Vaughan Williams (Benjamin's teacher) and, at times reminds me of works like the contemporaneous 6th Symphony and even the opera 'Riders to the Sea'.
I was just about to start a thread 'In Praise of Marco Polo' but fortunately had the good sense to check if one already existed. I see that there is this most interesting one started by Manabu (DBK) which I had made numerous contributions to! ::) ;D
(//)
PS I see that this is one of those Marco Polo releases that never reappeared on Naxos, others include Stakovsky's fine recording of Miaskovsky's 6th Symphony, Truscott's Symphony and Fanelli's 'Romance of the Mummy' etc.
Jeffrey, thank you for reviving this thread! I will check the Benjamin disc.
I would like to present some other MP discs I like. I don't have the sampler disc, but I thought it looked nice.
(https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71pi83tRFeL._SS500_.jpg)
(https://cps-static.rovicorp.com/3/JPG_500/MI0000/997/MI0000997755.jpg?partner=allrovi.com)
(https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51i7Z+nwMOL._SX466_.jpg)
(https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51N66RXX+IL._SX466_.jpg)
(https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/417C0Z1M57L._SX466_.jpg)
(https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/4-4AAOSwrKBis562/s-l300.jpg)
Quote from: Dry Brett Kavanaugh on August 30, 2022, 06:57:10 PM
Jeffrey, thank you for reviving this thread! I will check the Benjamin disc.
I would like to present some other MP discs I like. I don't have the sampler disc, but I thought it looked nice.
(https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71pi83tRFeL._SS500_.jpg)
(https://cps-static.rovicorp.com/3/JPG_500/MI0000/997/MI0000997755.jpg?partner=allrovi.com)
(https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51i7Z+nwMOL._SX466_.jpg)
(https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51N66RXX+IL._SX466_.jpg)
(https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/417C0Z1M57L._SX466_.jpg)
(https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/4-4AAOSwrKBis562/s-l300.jpg)
Manabu - I have the fine Gliere CD, the S. African one and two sampler CDs which alerted me to some other gems! I may have De Boeck and Ibert but I'm not sure. Try the Truscott Symphony if you don't already know it - that was a great discovery for me. :) The 'Elegy' is very moving as well:
(//)
Quote from: vandermolen on August 31, 2022, 04:26:33 AM
Manabu - I have the fine Gliere CD, the S. African one and two sampler CDs which alerted me to some other gems! I may have De Boeck and Ibert but I'm not sure. Try the Truscott Symphony if you don't already know it - that was a great discovery for me. :) The 'Elegy' is very moving as well:
(//)
I am playing it now via streaming. Sounds lovely!
I prefer this Bronze Horseman to that of Chandos.
As for the cover art of Benjamin disc, what are the names of work and artist?
Quote from: Dry Brett Kavanaugh on August 31, 2022, 06:17:42 AM
I am playing it now via streaming. Sounds lovely!
I prefer this Bronze Horseman to that of Chandos.
As for the cover art of Benjamin disc, what are the names of work and artist?
Glad you like it Manabu. I agree about The Bronze Horseman.
'A Wet Night at Piccadilly Circus' by Arthur Hacker (no date)
PS I looked it up (1910)
https://www.royalacademy.org.uk/art-artists/work-of-art/a-wet-night-at-piccadilly-circus
PPS I suspect that the same artist painted this image as well. At first I thought that it was the same painting but I think not. I don't have the CD as I don't think much of York Bowen's compositions, which I find rather dreary.
(//)
As an aside, NAXOS has absolutely ruined their website. It's been revamped for more commerciality, and less information. GONE are the reviews, the "About this release", etc. The new look is ugly, chaps.
Oh no they're still there on the individual albums
Quote from: vandermolen on August 31, 2022, 07:54:28 AM
Glad you like it Manabu. I agree about The Bronze Horseman.
'A Wet Night at Piccadilly Circus' by Arthur Hacker (no date)
PS I looked it up (1910)
https://www.royalacademy.org.uk/art-artists/work-of-art/a-wet-night-at-piccadilly-circus
PPS I suspect that the same artist painted this image as well. At first I thought that it was the same painting but I think not. I don't have the CD as I don't think much of York Bowen's compositions, which I find rather dreary.
(//)
Nice painting Jeffrey. Thanks a lot!
I am listening to the Benjamin now!