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Know What You're Getting Into

Daniel Jason | New York, NY | 11/06/2004

(3 out of 5 stars)

"Few artists engender such strong reactions as does Sarah Brightman. She is truly a love-it-or-hate-it proposition. This album is a perfect example of what divides people about her. The album is called "Classics" and is an album of classical material done Sarah Brightman-style. If you already like her voice and the production style of her music, it's probably for you. Sarah has never claimed to be a legit opera singer, and you'll probably find this CD in the vocals section of your store, not the classical section. So if you like legit classical singers or traditional opera recordings, of COURSE you're not going to like it. So put your axe away and buy something else. Sarah Brightman sings the classics her way; she does not try to imitate anyone else or give a traditional recital. A lot of the arguments made by reviewers here are old hat, from way back in the "Classical Barbra" days of Streisand's 70's classical album. They're TIRED, OLD arguments. Sarah's and Barbra's CD's were made for popular music fans who might enjoy hearing a few classical selections. If you're not part of that audience, what are you doing buying this anyway? So what do I think of it? I think it's pleasant and enjoyable coffee-table music. I much prefer Sarah's more diverse offerings, but I feel no need to tear it apart or swear my undying devotion to it. It stands up to repeated plays, and is an enjoyable listen for those who appreciate Sarah's recordings."

Brightman's Voice = Lovely Instrument

Daniel Jason | 11/28/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Listening to Sarah Brightman sing makes one realize that the human voice is truly the most lovely musical instrument (I think Chopin said this). I have 3 of Sarah Brightman's other CDs (Eden, La Luna, and Andrew Lloyd Webber) and this is my favorite of all three. I realize that the critique of music is a very subjective matter (there are beings that actually enjoy rap "music") so I should mention that La Luna is my least favorite of all because it's a bit "dark" and minor sounding. Most of the selections on this CD are very melodic and "happy" (sorry, I'm not a professional music person). All of the songs on this CD are derived from classical music, hence the name "Classics." I must mention that I am partial to classical music. This CD has taken the best parts of classical pieces and set them to words. Lovely! There are a few operatic pieces which are delightful. Listening to a Sarah Brightman CD versus today's pop music is like eating a fine creme brulee versus sampling a McDonald's apple pie."

What more is there to say!?

Linda Sullivan | Brockton, MA United States | 11/26/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"There is no doubt (at least in my mind!) that Sarah Brightman has an exquisite voice, but just as important, she has incredible control over her voice which allows her to perform to perfection everything she sings whether it be opera arias, popular tunes, or jazz -- and let us not forget that she does all of this in five different languages! As many know, Miss Brightman likes to 'theme' her albums and "CLASSICS", I believe, is no exception. Each song flows beautifully into the next, creating a feeling of harmony and tranquility. While I have heard some complain that only four new songs are offered on this CD, it's important to note that many of the songs found on previous albums are presented here with new arrangements. I realize this is only a matter of opinion, but I rather enjoy hearing different arrangements, and in fact, find it refreshing. Additionally, since the previous recordings she has selected for this CD are among my favorites, I cannot complain on that note! The new selections she has given us are "Ave Maria", "Alhambra", "Winter Light", and "Dans La Nuit" which are all very nice. If I were to rate these four from highest to lowest, I would do so in the order that I have listed them -- but I truly enjoy all of them. While she has taken three selections from her "TIME TO SAY GOODBYE" CD, two of the three are new arrangments. There are four selections from "EDEN" and of these, "Nessun Dorma" is a new arrangement and is absolutely wonderful! Finally, there are three selections from her "LA LUNA" CD. In all honesty, I was not sure what to expect with this CD until I received it and listened to it in its entirety. In doing so, it became evident to me that Miss Brightman took great care in choosing songs that would keep with the theme she had in mind. The only recording that didn't take my breath away was the new recording of "Pie Jesu". For some reason, her voice appeared to be somewhat in the distance and didn't seem as clear to me as in previous recordings; but others have said they enjoy this new arrangement. If you are a fan of Sarah Brightman's, I truly feel you will love this CD! If you are new to the world of Sarah Brightman, I think this CD would be a wonderful introduction into her world!"