An Awesome Journey
Diane L. Wiley | Janesville, WI USA | 08/19/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"My husband and I love it. Ms. Carter plays with such emotion. She is truly an artist who can interpret a piece of music and make it her own. We are so glad that she went back into the studio to record after the recent death of her Mom.
This recording rates right up there with Rhythms of the Heart and Paganini: After a Dream."
AWESOME OFFERING
Denise | Salt Lake City Best Snow on Earth | 05/13/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I must have been listening to different recordings gauging from some of the less-than-stellar reviews on various recordings from Ms. Carter. I saw she was coming to town so checked out this album. Although a tribute to her late mother, there is nothing lachrymose about this album. For the last 2 weeks, it has been following me from car to work to house. Her rendition of Anitra's Dance (Peer Gynt by Grieg) is simply astounding. Many reviewers on other albums say Carter isn't NEARLY as good on her recordings. Having just sat (well, barely--it was so swingin') through her concert last night, I can only say it was an astounding night. Her CD was EVERY bit as enthralling as the live show, in the way that most recordings are. There are loads of artists who are never as good live as in their recorded work, so I s'pose I'd rather have this--a little less 'bright' than live, but great nonetheless. One of the things you see in concert that you might not be aware of on the recordings is how skillfully and beautifully the clarinet and accordion (yes, I know!) blend with her inimitable tone on the strings. THAT is a tribute to all three virtuosos.
She played much from this album, some from the Paganini recording, and some pieces I was not familiar with, all with deft ease and deceptively playful flair. This is joyful music, played with influences from Stephane Grapelli, Ellington and the like. This is traditional with a twist. No histrionics, no self-aggrandizing baloney. This is a gem and sure to be one of your favorites. If you love the echoes of those masters who've gone before, re-interpreted at a new level, get this album. You know how people say, when someone really special dies, "Celebrate their life, not their death!" Well, folks, this then is such a celebration. And if you're feeling a bit low, and hear the final cut of "I'll Be Seeing You" and shed a tear or two, it won't be from sadness. Rather, a reflection on loving, losing and carrying on, all guided by Regina Carter's exceptional playing and singing. Kudos to you, Ms. Carter, and when is your next CD coming out?"
Incredible! Incredible! Incredible!
Ethyl | Los Angeles | 03/08/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Regina Carter is perhaps the most amazing jazz violinist of this period.I have all of her recordings and this is one of my favorites. I just can't get tired of it."