Average Rating:

.

A Winter Symphony

by: Sarah Brightman

November 04, 2008
I've read a lot of mixed reviews on this CD, from Brightman fans and non-fans alike. But in my personal opinion, it's a superb album, and I'm thrilled she finally produced a holiday CD.

I'm giving it 4 of 5 stars because I do believe it could have been better, but that by no means implies that I hate the CD in anyway. I've just followed Sarah for the past 10 years since I was a little girl. This woman was my introduction to opera and classical cross over music! That being said, I know what the "best" and "most" could sound like from her; this isn't it.

I really wish two things would have been done with this CD: Sarah singing, "The First of May" (as she did on the Symphony tour, for pre-Christmas dates), and she also ... Read More:

Average Rating:

.

Symphony

by: Sarah Brightman

January 29, 2008
Sarah Brightman's 'Symphony' is yet another example of how the acclaimed 'Angel of Music' takes classical music genres and brings life to them.

True to its title, 'Symphony' takes on a more gothic symphonic rock style from Ms. Brightman's previous albums, while sticking to her traditional crossover formula. The best example of this is in 'Fleurs du Mal' (Flowers of Evil), which opens with a strong beat and some amazing high notes. A reprise of this song appears at the end of the album as a hidden track. 'Fleurs du Mal' is probably the best song on the album because it literally grabs listeners' attention from the first second.

Some of the songs have a more melancholic mood, like 'I Will Be with You' (with Paul Stanley), which was the theme ... Read More:

Average Rating:

.

The Phantom of the Opera (Original 1986 London Cast)

by: Charles Hart

February 06, 2001

With 356 four- and five-star reviews already posted, there is not much more to be said about this show or this recording. This is almost the complete musical--good solo lines, strong choral parts and orchestrations that become part of the package, not just background.
I cannot give this a five-star rating, because the lyrics and dialogue are very difficult to understand at times. This is partly because of the accents, and partly because of unprecise enunciation. If you want this as background music, or listen-to-on-the-headset-while-walking, it is fine. But to immerse yourself in the story, you must stay glued to the libretto.

Average Rating:

.

Romanza

by: Andrea Bocelli

September 23, 1997
Like many Americans, I was first introduced to the magic of Andrea Bocelli through television. I often find myself still reaching for "Romanza" as a way to relax and take a journey through a musical masterpiece. Though it was recorded over a decade ago, the album has, for the most part, withstood the test of time.

To get the reason for the four-star rating out of the way: several songs on the album do date themselves to the mid-90s. I was never a big fan of the saxophone-driven jazz accompanied by synthesizers that was popular ten years ago, and it is for this reason that I don't give the album five stars. For those who love this style of music, songs like 'E Chiove' and 'Le Tue Parole' will sound fanstastic. And, while 'Caruso' has become a classic in some circles, ... Read More:

Average Rating:

.

Sarah Brightman Classics

by: Sarah Brightman, Tomaso Giovanni Albinoni, Francisco Tarrega, George Frideric Handel, Fryderyk Chopin, Sergey Rachmaninov, Giacomo Puccini, Antonin Dvorak, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Ludwig van Beethoven, Joseph Marie Canteloube, Francesco Sartori, Paul Bateman

November 20, 2001
What a rare treat to hear such a wonderful voice! The music transcends the various languages( Latin, Italian, French, Spanish and almost no English) and communicates directly, beyond intellect, deeper to sooth the soul. This we expect from Opera and Religious selections such as Pucinni's "Nessun Dorma" and Lloyd Webber's "Piu Jesu". A favorite is the solo rendition of "Time To Say Good-bye". Orchestrations are as light and lyric as the voice. Some tracks are found on other CD's and the enclosed photos are a bit risque, but again, the music reaches a much higher plane than most. You won't be disappointed.

Average Rating:

.

Time to Say Goodbye

by: Sarah Brightman, London Symphony Orchestra

September 23, 1997
Arguably the least flawed of her albums, Brightman's "Time To Say Goodbye" is a collection of songs (new and classic standards) which could argue were written exclusively for her. Flawless duets galore and high notes that bring tears to listeners, her powerful voice generates more emotion with its dramatic storytelling than any film actress alive could do with the same material, using voice and facial emotion. A must have for fans, and those interested in La Divina for the 1980s and beyond.

Average Rating:

.

Vivere Live in Tuscany [CD/DVD]

from: Decca

January 29, 2008
This is a great DVD/CD for Bocelli. I've watched it many times over and over again. The songs are awesome!!! One of the best ever!!!

Average Rating:

.

Highlights From The Phantom Of The Opera: The Original London Cast Recording (1986 London Cast)

from: Decca Broadway

October 25, 1990
Very good album from the British musical masterpiece. Nevertheless, the song "The music of the night" has been replaced from the original score. It has some little changes in its lyrics but is good. In order to have a good souvenir from the recording and for the whole performance, I recommend the 2 CD box set with the original cast.

Average Rating:

.

Diva: The Singles Collection

by: Sarah Brightman

October 03, 2006
To this collection of Sarah's great songs, the only thing I would have added is more of her wonderful singles
This version of "A Question of Honor" is in the best I have heard, and listening to Steve Harley sing "Phantom of the Opera" with Sarah is a spectacular addition to the album as well.

Average Rating:

.

Eden (US Release - 16 tracks)

by: Sarah Brightman

April 20, 1999
well, I don't know what's wrong with one of the songs...it is like 2 songs are mixed together....so everytime that I listen that CD I need to skip that song...the rest of the CD is fine. Thanks