Search - Lalo Schifrin :: Lalo Schifrin: Symphonic Impressions of Oman

Monumental exotic album.

Piovan | Brescia, ITALY | 10/13/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Lalo Schifrin is more well-known for his excellent scores for such films as "Bullit", "Dirty Harry" and "Mission Impossible", but he is conversant with the composition of orchestral works too. This monumental symphonic suite in eight movements is fine and rich in romantic melodic themes which recall exotic Middle Eastern dances and Arabian sounds. For this album, Lalo Schifrin's style is reminiscent of oriental melodies of some Camille Saint Saëns' compositions and of exotic sounds from Florent Schmitt's luscious music. This album, finely performed by the London Symphony Orchestra, is simply wonderful and thrilling. I strongly recommend the purchase of this CD."

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J Lee Harshbarger | Ypsilanti, MI United States | 06/11/2004

(2 out of 5 stars)

"With a title like "Symphonic Impressions of Oman," I was expecting to hear some Middle Eastern sounds mixed into symphony orchestra renderings. Instead, it just sounds like generic symphony orchestra music, like any 19th century orchestral work. It's okay as far as that goes, but if you're looking for Middle Eastern flavors, I suggest Claude Chalhoub's album instead. It's not full symphony, but at least it's instrumental violin-led tracks that do have a Middle Eastern flavor."