Canter Bridge

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Under the baton of Austrian conductors Michael Halász and Richard Edlinger (the latter tragically deceased at the age of 47), the Czech Radio Orchestra and the Zagreb Philharmonia Orchestra produce a fine, Central European reading of Beethoven’s Third and Eighth Symphonies, respectively. Performed a year before the collapse of the Soviet block radically redefined the political realities of two countries (Czechoslovakia and Yugoslavia) that can now be named only after supplying the prefix ‘Former’, this high-quality Naxos release reminds us how artistic labors continued unabated under the ‘soft’ Communism of the countries that host these respected orchestras. Continue Reading »

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This unsung compilation of carols is played with understated and brilliant poise by Lewis Ross, self-styled ‘Master of Guitars’ and ‘Practitioner of Musick’ of the New American Guitar Ensemble.

Ross tosses off fifteen traditional Christian carols that embellish the religious legacy of Christmas—Santa Claus is not invited here and does not appear—with his highly accomplished touch on classical guitar. Continue Reading »

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This private-label collection of Messianic Jewish worship services highlights the tenor voice of the author and a moving collection of biblical texts that are sung in both Hebrew and English. Continue Reading »

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It was going to take a massive earthquake or food poisoning to derail this lineup of Nelson, Battle, Horne, Ramey, Aler, Chance, Mackie, the inimitable Sylvia McNair, Doss, the Ambrosian Opera Chorus, and the English Chamber Orchestra.

Alas, the seismic meters were calm and the seafood impeccably washed. Continue Reading »

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Driving home in the wee hours from the Indy airport, there is no better accompaniment that Joni Mitchell on Blue.

Seldom are whimsy and reflection caught so well without damaging the wings. Continue Reading »

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Good grief, Elvis Costello, you’d better treat this lady well.

The room fills with rich smoke as Diana Krall sings, but it isn’t the guy slouched in the corner with the Habano. It’s what happens when Krall does this kind of singin’. Continue Reading »