AudioNervosa

Music Ward => Music Discussion => Topic started by: S Clark on October 04, 2019, 02:23:37 PM

Title: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on October 04, 2019, 02:23:37 PM
The standard "What are you Listening to? threads don't tell us enough.  It needs to be What and Why to give value. 

Why do I listen to Erik Satie?  Because he puts my soul at rest.  There are so many versions since every one above beginner status can hit the notes... so discover you own favorites. 
A YouTube introductions is:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b9WKC5sT9Z4

My favorite performer is Aldo Ciccolini.  He did a library of Satie's work for Columbia and EMI/Pathe Marconi that are available and affordable. 

(https://img.discogs.com/c_9kHnFUYy6euZ6Y7iQmSDqxAOA=/fit-in/400x397/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(90)/discogs-images/R-1255699-1252796019.jpeg.jpg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Nick B on October 04, 2019, 02:38:10 PM
Thanks.  I do kind of get in a rut and listen to the same stuff. Time for me to explore a bit.
Nick
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on October 06, 2019, 08:29:24 PM
"Gaspard de la Nuit" by Maurice Ravel on Deutsche Grammophone  2530 540
The artist is Martha Argerich and the piece is one of the most difficult in the entire catalogue of piano pieces.  It shimmers, it pounds, it takes flight in unexpected ways that grabs your attention.  AND it's an excellent pressing and recording... the upper range sparkles and the low end has real weight.
First movement-   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rj8cBmWZhP0

(https://img.cdandlp.com/2017/08/imgL/118906125.jpg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on October 08, 2019, 07:20:46 PM
My Fatherland (Ma Vlast)  by Smetana conducted by Vaclav Neumann and the Leipzig Gevandhaus Orchestra on London vinyl 
A two record box CSA 2222.  Recorded in 1968. 
Why, because I just picked it up today, NM,  and I find these older London LP's have excellent sound. Just when RCA and Columbia were in decline, London/Decca kept high standards. 
This double album has all six tone poems of the complete work. This is one of the great warhorses of the Nationalistic movement written in the late 1870's.  If you don't have a copy find both the poems Ma Vlast and the Moldau on whatever streamer/Youtube you have available.  If you can't find a copy, I'll look through my collection and find an extra to send you.  Every classical lover needs this work. 

(https://auctions.c.yimg.jp/images.auctions.yahoo.co.jp/image/dr000/auc0503/users/c237e2080a7056b7705af869e53427f4219be155/i-img1200x797-1551522191tq5fwo221187.jpg)
Title: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Guy 13 on October 09, 2019, 03:28:58 AM

Hi all.
I already mentionned that I am not a big fan of vocal singer (male or female)
but yesterday I saw on You Tube a video of Elvis Presley.
I love his song and voice, so smooth...
Even in the song : Jailhouse Rock.
he doesn't shout - screem.

Guy 13
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Folsom on October 09, 2019, 11:46:50 AM
Guy, stay on topic or keep it short and sweet. This isn't the place for random thoughts on YouTube.
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: James Edward on October 09, 2019, 11:56:36 AM
Guy, stay on topic or keep it short and sweet. This isn't the place for random thoughts on YouTube.

This is a joke, right?
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: rollo on October 09, 2019, 01:45:43 PM
  Sooth the soul is my gig. Country meaning real Country sooths my soul lately R&B Soul music from the 60s 70s also sooths. For demo or testing I play Violin,piano, cello and solo acoustic guitar. Chamber music works well for testing. When feeling down a big Mahler piece or Organ makes ya feel like Captain Nemo steering that Sub.
 
charles
 
Title: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Guy 13 on October 09, 2019, 02:34:22 PM
Guy, stay on topic or keep it short and sweet. This isn't the place for random thoughts on YouTube.
Title: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Guy 13 on October 09, 2019, 02:46:49 PM
Guy, stay on topic or keep it short and sweet. This isn't the place for random thoughts on YouTube.



Hi Folsom.
Sorry if I was off topic, I thought the topic was about '' WHY '' and '' WHAT ''
I didn't know it was only about vinyl or CD music.
Sooooo.... Sorry about my mistake,
you can be sure this will never happen again,
because I will not share '' WHY and '' WHAT I like about music,
You Tube, vinyl or CD.
Period.

Guy 13
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: tmazz on October 09, 2019, 03:43:54 PM
Sorry, but I don't think guy's comment was off topic in the least.

He was talking about what he liked about some music that he recently found.

What I took as the point of his post, was that in spite of his usual shying away from vocal music he came across some that he found enjoyable. The fact that he came across it on youtube seem to me to be a minor side comment.  He could have just said yesterday I came across some Elvis Presley music without mentioning where he found it and the core message of the post would have been unchanged.
Title: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Guy 13 on October 09, 2019, 05:32:25 PM
Sorry, but I don't think guy's comment was off topic in the least.

He was talking about what he liked about some music that he recently found.

What I took as the point of his post, was that in spite of his usual shying away from vocal music he came across some that he found enjoyable. The fact that he came across it on youtube seem to me to be a minor side comment.  He could have just said yesterday I came across some Elvis Presley music without mentioning where he found it and the core message of the post would have been unchanged.


Hi all.
I don't want to rant,
however you have to keep in mind that right now,
all my vinyl + turntable(s) as well as all my CD and all my CD players
are carefully packed and well protected and ready to go.
Therefore my only source of music is the Internet (You Tube is one).
Soooo.... I will come back on this topic with comments
when I am all set up in Canada.
Thanks for understanding this situation that is not fun for me.
See you (For this topic only) middle of 2020.

Guy 13

Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: James Edward on October 09, 2019, 05:40:54 PM
Did I miss something here? I didn't see anything in the original post either excluding youtube or limiting this thread to CD/vinyl, etc., etc., etc. Done hijacking what I believe is a great idea for discussion.
Title: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Guy 13 on October 09, 2019, 06:34:36 PM
Did I miss something here? I didn't see anything in the original post either excluding youtube or limiting this thread to CD/vinyl, etc., etc., etc. Done hijacking what I believe is a great idea for discussion.


James,
that's why I was refering to my only source of music.
Thanks.

Guy 13
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on October 09, 2019, 08:33:37 PM
You Tube is a great source to listen to music, even if it's not the best reproduction.  Posting about You Tube fits in fine here. 

But what I had hoped for out of this thread is that you add more than just a narcissistic "I'm listening to XYZ" - which is of limited interest to others.   If you add something, why you like it, what's special about it, how it fits your mood, etc...
then you have a post worth reading.  Please take the time to tell us why it's what you're listening to. Don't just post a link. 
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Guy 13 on October 09, 2019, 10:31:25 PM
You Tube is a great source to listen to music, even if it's not the best reproduction.  Posting about You Tube fits in fine here. 

But what I had hoped for out of this thread is that you add more than just a narcissistic "I'm listening to XYZ" - which is of limited interest to others.   If you add something, why you like it, what's special about it, how it fits your mood, etc...
then you have a post worth reading.  Please take the time to tell us why it's what you're listening to. Don't just post a link.


Hi S Clark.
In my post, I didn't write everything you mentionned,
however, I did mention that I like Elvis smooth voice.
What I can add to justified '' WHY '' I like Elvis Presley singing is :
The tyrics, words of his song,
in addition I like all the type of songs has has recored
it got some magic in it, don't you agree ?
I am sure I am not the only one that like his style of music,
he sold millions of vinyl, so many other Elvis fans think like me.
What's more is that with '' You Tube '' in addition to the music,
you can see how he moves, dance
and how handsome he is
and I am not gay the appreciate the good looking of a man like him.
Paul Newman and Richard Gere were also nice looking.
Because I don't have any vinyl of Elvis,
I thought it was a good idea to post a link of one of his most memorable song.
Did I forget something ?
Is this better ? ? ?
Look like this topic is a bit too difficult for me to fullfil all the requirements.

Guy 13
 
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: tmazz on October 09, 2019, 11:09:35 PM
Here is something that is a particular fav of mine:

Vivaldi: The Four Seasons -  Societa Corelli

(https://www.popsike.com/pix/20120211/230745124642.jpg)

RCA Living Stereo LP (Shaded Dog)

This relatively unknown Living Stereo LP (LSC-2424) is one of my favorites from the RCA  Shaded Dog era.

Most classical recordings are done in a full size concert hall and strive to replicate  the experience of being there. We often hear them reviewed in terms of how when you can get a sense of the hall in terms of hearing the walls  and getting a feel of the space they are playing in. This even applies to small groups like a string quartets who although they are small groups usually perform in large venues if for not reason than they can get more paying customers into them.

But chamber music back when it was written was originally meant to be played in the homes of the rich patrons who commissioned the works, or at least supported the artists. What intrigues me so much about this recording is that it replicates that original intent in my listening room. The image it portrays is not one of a group playing on a stage, but rather four musicians entertaining me in my own living room. The size of the instruments and their spacing across the soundstage is exactly what I would expect to hear if they were sitting in four chairs right across from me. Instead of a "you are there" presentation, this album gives you a clearer sense of "they are here." If I close my eyes it is almost kind of spooky.

My copy is an original first pressing of this album (1S/1S for those familiar with the matrix codes on this series), but I was very excited to ear that Analogue Productions has this one slated as one of their next series of reissues from the RCA vaults. I will be very interested to see how a new modern mastering and pressing compares to the image I get from the original.
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Folsom on October 10, 2019, 02:22:56 AM
You Tube is a great source to listen to music, even if it's not the best reproduction.  Posting about You Tube fits in fine here. 

But what I had hoped for out of this thread is that you add more than just a narcissistic "I'm listening to XYZ" - which is of limited interest to others.   If you add something, why you like it, what's special about it, how it fits your mood, etc...
then you have a post worth reading.  Please take the time to tell us why it's what you're listening to. Don't just post a link.


Hi S Clark.
In my post, I didn't write everything you mentionned,
however, I did mention that I like Elvis smooth voice.
What I can add to justified '' WHY '' I like Elvis Presley singing is :
The tyrics, words of his song,
in addition I like all the type of songs has has recored
it got some magic in it, don't you agree ?
I am sure I am not the only one that like his style of music,
he sold millions of vinyl, so many other Elvis fans think like me.
What's more is that with '' You Tube '' in addition to the music,
you can see how he moves, dance
and how handsome he is
and I am not gay the appreciate the good looking of a man like him.
Paul Newman and Richard Gere were also nice looking.
Because I don't have any vinyl of Elvis,
I thought it was a good idea to post a link of one of his most memorable song.
Did I forget something ?
Is this better ? ? ?
Look like this topic is a bit too difficult for me to fullfil all the requirements.

Guy 13

Now that's on topic, it's not just like a FaceBook update that says so and so listened to X band and song Y. Scott made the topic so we'll elaborate some on what the music means to us, what we find interesting.
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Nick B on October 10, 2019, 07:44:30 AM
Here is something that is a particular fav of mine:

Vivaldi: The Four Seasons -  Societa Corelli

(https://www.popsike.com/pix/20120211/230745124642.jpg)

RCA Living Stereo LP (Shaded Dog)

This relatively unknown Living Stereo LP (LSC-2424) is one of my favorites from the RCA  Shaded Dog era.

Most classical recordings are done in a full size concert hall and strive to replicate  the experience of being there. We often hear them reviewed in terms of how when you can get a sense of the hall in terms of hearing the walls  and getting a feel of the space they are playing in. This even applies to small groups like a string quartets who although they are small groups usually perform in large venues if for not reason than they can get more paying customers into them.

But chamber music back when it was written was originally meant to be played in the homes of the rich patrons who commissioned the works, or at least supported the artists. What intrigues me so much about this recording is that it replicates that original intent in my listening room. The image it portrays is not one of a group playing on a stage, but rather four musicians entertaining me in my own living room. The size of the instruments and their spacing across the soundstage is exactly what I would expect to hear if they were sitting in four chairs right across from me. Instead of a "you are there" presentation, this album gives you a clearer sense of "they are here." If I close my eyes it is almost kind of spooky.

My copy is an original first pressing of this album (1S/1S for those familiar with the matrix codes on this series), but I was very excited to ear that Analogue Productions has this one slated as one of their next series of reissues from the RCA vaults. I will be very interested to see how a new modern mastering and pressing compares to the image I get from the original.

Thanks, Tom. Very interesting...great post
Nick
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on October 10, 2019, 03:15:24 PM
That 4 seasons is one of the best.  RCA LSC 2424 is rated at the top by James Mitchell (probably THE authority on the great RCA years).  A 1s1s copy... those are hard to come by.  I've got NM 1s3s copy that I'll put on this evening and listen for hall ambience.  I can't find the recording engineer or the performance venue.  My notes say "TAS worthy".  This lp is kind of an overlooked gem.  There's a NM 1s3s on Discogs right now for $16+5 shipping.  For a high quality original, that's a steal. 
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: James Edward on October 10, 2019, 03:36:31 PM
You Tube is a great source to listen to music, even if it's not the best reproduction.  Posting about You Tube fits in fine here. 

But what I had hoped for out of this thread is that you add more than just a narcissistic "I'm listening to XYZ" - which is of limited interest to others.   If you add something, why you like it, what's special about it, how it fits your mood, etc...
then you have a post worth reading.  Please take the time to tell us why it's what you're listening to. Don't just post a link.


Hi S Clark.
In my post, I didn't write everything you mentionned,
however, I did mention that I like Elvis smooth voice.
What I can add to justified '' WHY '' I like Elvis Presley singing is :
The tyrics, words of his song,
in addition I like all the type of songs has has recored
it got some magic in it, don't you agree ?
I am sure I am not the only one that like his style of music,
he sold millions of vinyl, so many other Elvis fans think like me.
What's more is that with '' You Tube '' in addition to the music,
you can see how he moves, dance
and how handsome he is
and I am not gay the appreciate the good looking of a man like him.
Paul Newman and Richard Gere were also nice looking.
Because I don't have any vinyl of Elvis,
I thought it was a good idea to post a link of one of his most memorable song.
Did I forget something ?
Is this better ? ? ?
Look like this topic is a bit too difficult for me to fullfil all the requirements.

Guy 13
I agree Guy. I'll stick to the more freeform threads.
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on October 10, 2019, 05:00:39 PM
Good grief.  All I asked is that you put something more interesting than"  I'm listening to ABBA.  Here's the album cover."
As far as I'm concerned, Guy's post was fine, he told how he liked the tone of Presley's voice.  That's enough. 
Title: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Guy 13 on October 10, 2019, 05:02:42 PM
You Tube is a great source to listen to music, even if it's not the best reproduction.  Posting about You Tube fits in fine here. 

But what I had hoped for out of this thread is that you add more than just a narcissistic "I'm listening to XYZ" - which is of limited interest to others.   If you add something, why you like it, what's special about it, how it fits your mood, etc...
then you have a post worth reading.  Please take the time to tell us why it's what you're listening to. Don't just post a link.


Hi S Clark.
In my post, I didn't write everything you mentionned,
however, I did mention that I like Elvis smooth voice.
What I can add to justified '' WHY '' I like Elvis Presley singing is :
The tyrics, words of his song,
in addition I like all the type of songs has has recored
it got some magic in it, don't you agree ?
I am sure I am not the only one that like his style of music,
he sold millions of vinyl, so many other Elvis fans think like me.
What's more is that with '' You Tube '' in addition to the music,
you can see how he moves, dance
and how handsome he is
and I am not gay the appreciate the good looking of a man like him.
Paul Newman and Richard Gere were also nice looking.
Because I don't have any vinyl of Elvis,
I thought it was a good idea to post a link of one of his most memorable song.
Did I forget something ?
Is this better ? ? ?
Look like this topic is a bit too difficult for me to fullfil all the requirements.

Guy 13
I agree Guy. I'll stick to the more freeform threads.


Thanks James.
... and S. Clark, tmazz and other for their support.
I was knock out of my computer's chair reading one comment,
(Yes, I do exagerate... with words)
now I am trying to get back on it, will take a few days,
before I come back here to cruising speed.

Guy 13.
 
Title: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Guy 13 on October 10, 2019, 05:08:19 PM
Hi all.
I am relatively new here on Audio Nervosa,
I sure don't want to start a third world war with my posts.
I will wait a little for the dust to settle down,
then if you still want me to post,
I will do it with upmost pleasure.
I sure don't want to be a pain in the neck for all of you nice guys.

Guy 13.

In the future, I will try to avoid comments on topics that ca generate tsunami.
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Nick B on October 10, 2019, 09:20:03 PM
Guy,
I’m glad you are here and I enjoy your posts and pictures! This forum usually is a fun and peaceful place. Sometimes things happen and I hope we can all go on as usual.
Nick
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on October 10, 2019, 11:06:03 PM
(https://www.shadeddog.com/images/rca_lsc-2424_label_s1.jpg)

I'll add a few observations.  First, just about everyone knows Vivaldi's 4 Seasons.  Like Tmazz said, this is not the full orchestra, but a 13 string ensemble, the Societa Corelli.  These recordings are great for having an instrument appear and hang in space.  Detail is stunning, and the attack of each note of a trill is precise and clean. Violins have weight as well as just singing a line.  Cellos and Bass reverberate as only wood can. The performance is personal, as perhaps in a larger room with a number of dinner guest.  Occasional hints of depth indicate something of ball room size, but certainly no symphony hall. 
Main thing-  these instruments just jump out in their realism. 
As to Analogue Productions reissue, I have high hopes.  However, I have several Classic Recording reissues of some of the great shaded dogs, and although the vinyl is cleaner, their engineers don't capture the magic that the top three RCA engineers of the late 50's and 60's.  The bar is high for AP to match the brilliance of this original pressing.   
Title: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Guy 13 on October 11, 2019, 05:27:56 AM
Hi all.
Today I've listen to a CD of '' Animusic '' the track is called : Pipe dream.
What I like about that kind of electronic - computer generated music
is what I call '' High resolution '' even instruments and sound is so clear.
Bass is deep and sound real.
All the instruments can be clearly heard, well seperated.
It's like you want, while listening to the music, to discover (New) sounds,
each sound of instrument is a joy for the ears.
Of course, you have to like that kind of music to appreciate it,
if you are looking for sound of real instruments, then don't loose you time there.
One other thing that you might like is the power of the music,
like it can fill a opera house.
Have a listen and share what you think.
(Sorry no picture, I put the CD in blank sleeve.
I have three or four of their music CD.

Guy 13

Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: malloy on October 16, 2019, 06:53:21 PM
What: A Decade of Steely Dan

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/91SvPHXJ4tL._SY355_.jpg)

A great intro to their singles. Granted, it does not contain all their best songs, but it serves as a great introduction to their music.

Why:  The outstanding musicianship on the album.  The liner notes is like a who's who of musicians: Porcaro, Purdie, Wayne Shorter, Tom Scott, Carlton, Patti Austin..!!

Of course I also listen just for the sheer irreverence of everything they do!

Paul
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: P.I. on October 16, 2019, 09:00:01 PM
Hi all.
Today I've listen to a CD of '' Animusic '' the track is called : Pipe dream.
What I like about that kind of electronic - computer generated music
is what I call '' High resolution '' even instruments and sound is so clear.
Bass is deep and sound real.
All the instruments can be clearly heard, well seperated.
It's like you want, while listening to the music, to discover (New) sounds,
each sound of instrument is a joy for the ears.
Of course, you have to like that kind of music to appreciate it,
if you are looking for sound of real instruments, then don't loose you time there.
One other thing that you might like is the power of the music,
like it can fill a opera house.
Have a listen and share what you think.
(Sorry no picture, I put the CD in blank sleeve.
I have three or four of their music CD.

Guy 13
You really need to see the DVD or videos to fully appreciate it. 

Here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hyCIpKAIFyo

Resonant Chamber is one of my favorites:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=toXNVbvFXyk

Enjoy!
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: tmazz on October 17, 2019, 02:32:28 PM
What: A Decade of Steely Dan

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/91SvPHXJ4tL._SY355_.jpg)

A great intro to their singles. Granted, it does not contain all their best songs, but it serves as a great introduction to their music.

Why:  The outstanding musicianship on the album.  The liner notes is like a who's who of musicians: Porcaro, Purdie, Wayne Shorter, Tom Scott, Carlton, Patti Austin..!!

Of course I also listen just for the sheer irreverence of everything they do!

Paul

Absolutely a great album. I have the MCA Masterdisc Gold version. Unfortunately it has developed a severe case of laser rot and will no long play all the way through even though there is not a single scratch on the disc. (https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/emojione/assets/png/1f621.png)

The gold copies are not easy yo come by, especially at a reasonable price, so I will just have to be patient and my eyes open for one.

Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Guy 13 on October 17, 2019, 03:37:58 PM
Hi all.
Today I've listen to a CD of '' Animusic '' the track is called : Pipe dream.
What I like about that kind of electronic - computer generated music
is what I call '' High resolution '' even instruments and sound is so clear.
Bass is deep and sound real.
All the instruments can be clearly heard, well seperated.
It's like you want, while listening to the music, to discover (New) sounds,
each sound of instrument is a joy for the ears.
Of course, you have to like that kind of music to appreciate it,
if you are looking for sound of real instruments, then don't loose you time there.
One other thing that you might like is the power of the music,
like it can fill a opera house.
Have a listen and share what you think.
(Sorry no picture, I put the CD in blank sleeve.
I have three or four of their music CD.

Guy 13
You really need to see the DVD or videos to fully appreciate it. 

Here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hyCIpKAIFyo

Resonant Chamber is one of my favorites:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=toXNVbvFXyk

Enjoy!


Hi.
I have two CD and two DVD of Animusic.
Must be listened with good system or headphones to really appreciate it.

Guy 13
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: malloy on October 19, 2019, 01:14:10 AM
What: A Decade of Steely Dan

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/91SvPHXJ4tL._SY355_.jpg)

A great intro to their singles. Granted, it does not contain all their best songs, but it serves as a great introduction to their music.

Why:  The outstanding musicianship on the album.  The liner notes is like a who's who of musicians: Porcaro, Purdie, Wayne Shorter, Tom Scott, Carlton, Patti Austin..!!

Of course I also listen just for the sheer irreverence of everything they do!

Paul

Absolutely a great album. I have the MCA Masterdisc Gold version. Unfortunately it has developed a severe case of laser rot and will no long play all the way through even though there is not a single scratch on the disc. (https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/emojione/assets/png/1f621.png)

The gold copies are not easy yo come by, especially at a reasonable price, so I will just have to be patient and my eyes open for one.

Laser rot! That is unfortunate. And I thought making the disc gold was supposed to prevent disc rot. Haven't heard the gold version. Is the sound a step up from the regular one? I used to have most of the original individual albums. But I can't remember how they sounded.

There's a gold version on Amazon for $6 right now.  Weren't the gold versions quite pricey when first released?
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on October 19, 2019, 10:33:39 AM
I was at the record store going through some stuff the owner had just bought and ran across "True Blue" by Hank Crawford. 
Neither of us had heard of him, but reading that he was Ray Charles' primary sax guy, I decided to take a chance.
This guy is soul/jazz/blues from 1964.. definitely a Ray Charles style but with a septet instead of vocals.  He aims to seduce, not to stimulate.  Smooth, rather than edgy. 
It's a nice change from my usual Dexter Gordon/Horace Silver/ Miles/Brubeck selections.
Atlantic  1423

(https://e.snmc.io/i/300/w/8a658ef00e4b33d34fe3c204988cff69/3253008)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: tmazz on October 19, 2019, 04:03:08 PM
What: A Decade of Steely Dan

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/91SvPHXJ4tL._SY355_.jpg)

A great intro to their singles. Granted, it does not contain all their best songs, but it serves as a great introduction to their music.

Why:  The outstanding musicianship on the album.  The liner notes is like a who's who of musicians: Porcaro, Purdie, Wayne Shorter, Tom Scott, Carlton, Patti Austin..!!

Of course I also listen just for the sheer irreverence of everything they do!

Paul

Absolutely a great album. I have the MCA Masterdisc Gold version. Unfortunately it has developed a severe case of laser rot and will no long play all the way through even though there is not a single scratch on the disc. (https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/emojione/assets/png/1f621.png)

The gold copies are not easy yo come by, especially at a reasonable price, so I will just have to be patient and my eyes open for one.

Laser rot! That is unfortunate. And I thought making the disc gold was supposed to prevent disc rot. Haven't heard the gold version. Is the sound a step up from the regular one? I used to have most of the original individual albums. But I can't remember how they sounded.

There's a gold version on Amazon for $6 right now.  Weren't the gold versions quite pricey when first released?

I thought gold CDs were not susceptible to Laser Rot as well, but there is not a single scratch on the CD and all of a sudden it started skipping and hanging up in the middle of the disc,  I cannot imagine what else it could be other than a breakdown of the internal substrate. And yes, I did feel the gold version sounded better than the standard CD.

I saw the listings you are talking about and I have gotten burnt several times with listings of audiophile pressings that were price well below the going price and ended up being standard pressings. In each case it was a situation where the seller just clicked on a pre-made listing for the album based on the cover picture and did not realize that they picked the description for a premium pressing. In each case I got a refund and several of the sellers told ne tp just keep the disc, but to me it is just not worth the hassle. I would not choose any of the listings shown on Amazon that did not specially say gold CD or MasterDisc in the little description box on the page of sellers for the item. And by the time you went down the list and found one that had that information you were up in the $20 price range. I would be very leery of all of the sellers that were asking $6 (and there were a bunch of them.) I have a very strong suspicion that you would end up getting shipped a regular aluminum CD.

I will just keep my eyes peeled and one of these days I will come across a good deal on one. Since I already have the original jewel case with all of the inserts it would be no issue for me to buy just the CD alone, in a paper sleeve, which shows up every once in a while at a significantly lower price than they get for a full in tact package.
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: tmazz on October 19, 2019, 11:10:24 PM
OK, all of this talk about Steely Dan made me go down and pull out my MoFi LP of Aja.

(https://img.discogs.com/cJPAtRBvtoDmXtM7pcKa7IEw5Go=/fit-in/600x600/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(90)/discogs-images/R-13791957-1561223301-9884.jpeg.jpg)

When Aja was released I was working as an broadcast engineer at WTHE radio we were a low power AM station that had to sign off the air at sundown because we did not have clear channel rights to the frequency. One night right after signoff the program director came into the studio with a package from ABC records which contained a pre-preview copy of Aja. We put it on the turntable and I can remember like it was yesterday, the two of us sitting there with our jaws hanging open, saying "This is going to be big." (https://groups.tapatalk-cdn.com/smilies/1733/1534579954.0401-smiley.gif)

And the quality of the performances was no accident Becker and Fagan reached into the jazz world and recruited some top shelf musicians for these sessions. People such as Joe Sample, Victor Feldman, Larry Carlton, Tom Scott, Steve Gadd, Wayne Shorter and Lee Ritenour. And vocal harmonies by Michael McDonald and Timothy B. Schmidt. It is no wonder that after 42 years this album still holds up like it does.

Below is a link to a short video about the making of "Peg":

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=waIBA6_0GQc
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on October 24, 2019, 12:48:48 PM
Thanks for the link about "Peg". 
Which is related to the why of this post.  I saw the biopic "Rocket Man" about the life of Sir Elton John.  Not quite on the level of "Bohemian Rhapsody", but interesting and entertaining with a very talented lead actor/singer.
So I pulled out my old copy of his breakout lp.  Some is very good, some hints at what is to come.

(https://thesoundofvinyl.us/media/catalog/product/cache/e4d64343b1bc593f1c5348fe05efa4a6/3/5/3544748.jpg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on October 26, 2019, 08:21:50 PM
I was at the record store and ran across a NM J.S. Bach "Preludien/Fugue/Pastorale" on the Archiv Produktion label.  I knew it was part of Deutche Grammophone, but not much else.  These are period instrument recordings, and higher quality than the later DG's.  This 1974 recording of the church organ in Strassburg, in a big room and system, does a fine job or recreating the power and finesse of the grand pipe organ.

(https://img.discogs.com/k3sjY-BChUGlWi3DAAZFKdnW1K8=/fit-in/300x300/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(40)/discogs-images/R-4085900-1541199462-8205.jpeg.jpg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on October 28, 2019, 02:22:32 PM
Herbie Hancock  BST 84195  French repressing from 1984
I like the Direct Metal Masters that collectors turn their collective noses up at.  I've got a first pressing to compare to, and the DMM is cleaner.
Herbie was a child prodigy, playing a Mozart Concerto with the Chicago Sym at age 11.  He left Grinnell College to learn jazz at the feet of Coleman Hawkins and Donald Byrd (later to return to get his twin degrees in EE and music).
This album is his fifth as leader, and after much time spent with Miles in his second great quintet. 
W/ Freddie Hubbard, Ron Carter, George Coleman, and Anthony Williams. 

(https://d1e9ycqe323hkh.cloudfront.net/items/312406513795.jpg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on November 08, 2019, 08:32:53 PM
Grieg "Lyric Pieces" played by Walter Gieseking on late 50's Angel/EMI vinyl.
Several of these short pieces are familiar, but most by far are essentially unheard.  They aren't commonly recorded, so I had to hunt for good performances, and these old Angel records, Vol 1 and 2,  from 1957 and 59 are just what I wanted. 
These are like little poems about Grieg's Norwegian countryside... some simple nordic tuneful statements, others bits of beauty. 

(https://img.discogs.com/xAStGbJGOP-9pvlz_OpBzTRbhW4=/fit-in/600x599/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(90)/discogs-images/R-12036886-1527015756-4962.jpeg.jpg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on November 09, 2019, 11:44:48 AM
After opening a nice Spanish wine and doing a bit of cooking, I told Alexa to play Sketches of Spain by Miles. After dinner, I came in and put my mono copy on to compare.  I've been a fan of that lp since 1969, but listening to compare made me realize just how complex it is.  So many studio guys did really nice work... the tuba guy, the extra trumpets.  Pull out your copy to really listen to whats happening in the background.  Such a wonderful album. 

(https://www.sputnikmusic.com/images/albums/1440.jpg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Nick B on November 09, 2019, 06:22:11 PM
After opening a nice Spanish wine and doing a bit of cooking, I told Alexa to play Sketches of Spain by Miles. After dinner, I came in and put my mono copy on to compare.  I've been a fan of that lp since 1969, but listening to compare made me realize just how complex it is.  So many studio guys did really nice work... the tuba guy, the extra trumpets.  Pull out your copy to really listen to whats happening in the background.  Such a wonderful album. 

(https://www.sputnikmusic.com/images/albums/1440.jpg)

When I saw your post, I opened up Tidal and found the album 👍 Will listen to it later on the “big rig”
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: tmazz on November 11, 2019, 06:53:53 PM
After opening a nice Spanish wine and doing a bit of cooking, I told Alexa to play Sketches of Spain by Miles. After dinner, I came in and put my mono copy on to compare.  I've been a fan of that lp since 1969, but listening to compare made me realize just how complex it is.  So many studio guys did really nice work... the tuba guy, the extra trumpets.  Pull out your copy to really listen to whats happening in the background.  Such a wonderful album. 

(https://www.sputnikmusic.com/images/albums/1440.jpg)

When I saw your post, I opened up Tidal and found the album 👍 Will listen to it later on the “big rig”

You will not be disappointed.  :thumb:
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: tmazz on November 11, 2019, 07:21:47 PM
The LA 4: Going Home

(https://www.popsike.com/pix/20150427/221756461627.jpg)

EastWind Direct to Disc LP

Back in the late 70s and early 80s  a large percentage of the albums made specifically for the audiophile market had good sound, but featured second rate musicians playing mediocre music. This is definitely not one of those albums. it has not only excellent direct to disc sonics , but also top shelf music and musicianship. And for what it's worth I have never heard an EastWind D2D LP that didn't. I picked them up whenever I see one that is not already in my collection.
Title: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Guy 13 on November 11, 2019, 09:07:41 PM

Hi all.
I hope this is not off topic,
since my source is Internet Radio.
Relaxing music with instruments sound - timbre that I like.

By : Rene Aubry
Title : Noël aux balkans
and
Salento.

Guy 13

You probably can hear it on you Tube ?
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Nick B on November 11, 2019, 09:15:08 PM

Hi all.
I hope this is not off topic,
since my source is Internet Radio.
Relaxing music with instruments sound - timbre that I like.

By : Rene Aubry
Title : Noël aux balkans
and
Salento.

Guy 13

You probably can hear it on you Tube ?

Thanks, Guy. Found it on Tidal as well.
Nick
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Guy 13 on November 11, 2019, 09:51:26 PM

Hi all.
I hope this is not off topic,
since my source is Internet Radio.
Relaxing music with instruments sound - timbre that I like.

By : Rene Aubry
Title : Noël aux balkans
and
Salento.

Guy 13

You probably can hear it on you Tube ?

Thanks, Guy. Found it on Tidal as well.
Nick


Hi Nick.
Do you like it a little or a lot ?
Or, is it music to help you sleep or relax or what ? ? ?


Guy 13

Just want to compare my music liking with others...
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Nick B on November 11, 2019, 10:17:25 PM

Hi all.
I hope this is not off topic,
since my source is Internet Radio.
Relaxing music with instruments sound - timbre that I like.

By : Rene Aubry
Title : Noël aux balkans
and
Salento.

Guy 13

You probably can hear it on you Tube ?

Thanks, Guy. Found it on Tidal as well.
Nick


Hi Nick.
Do you like it a little or a lot ?
Or, is it music to help you sleep or relax or what ? ? ?


Guy 13

Just want to compare my music liking with others...

Guy,
I did enjoy it. I liked it mostly for the instrumentation. I’m guessing that I was hearing a guitar and mandolin.
Nick
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Guy 13 on November 11, 2019, 10:18:42 PM
Thanks Nick for your comments.

Guy 13
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on November 20, 2019, 06:15:59 PM
Alicia de Larrocha   Pianist    A collection of music of a dozen or so composers on London vinyl for some group called Classics Records Library
Apparently a Book of the Month club type thing... anyway, London quality and a great performer. 

Mozart Fantasia in D min  K.475 - very advanced piece that share lots in common with Chopin
Mozart Sonata in C major K545 - some of which was simple enough that I used to play it as a kid. 
Albeniz Cantos de Espana- just beautiful stuff. 

There are 4 lp's with much more.

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G2RkLUIzr-g/TZRNv9bfzmI/AAAAAAAAAgY/VbWGRclrqGA/s1600/%2524%2528KGrHqEOKjME1sY0jC46BNi9sJJMlg%257E%257E0_12.jpg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on January 09, 2020, 10:08:34 AM
Art Farmer  "Art"   on the Argo label.
 
Art Farmer is just easy to listen to, but with enough behind the notes to make it interesting.  A buddy loaned my his 1960 pressing, so it went to the head of the play list.  Farmer is kind of a can't miss guy, sorta like Bill Evans on piano. 

(https://s3.amazonaws.com/thisismyjam/i/4154ad6679a7174627f257f949a00703.jpg?1410639266)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: steve on January 10, 2020, 01:26:12 PM
I just received a link to Vltava (The Moldau). I had never heard of Smetana before, but this piece is riveting.
My understanding is Smetana was deaf when writing this piece. What a genius, like Beethoven.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l6kqu2mk-Kw

cheers and great weekend to all.

steve
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on January 10, 2020, 02:00:40 PM
I just received a link to Vltava (The Moldau). I had never heard of Smetana before, but this piece is riveting.
My understanding is Smetana was deaf when writing this piece. What a genius, like Beethoven.

Smetana and Dvorak stand out as the great Czech late romantic composers.  If you liked The Moldau (and everyone should!), know that it's part of a greater work.  Check out Ma Vlast.
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on January 20, 2020, 03:29:20 PM
More Art Farmer this afternoon.  Just got this one unpacked.
Art and Benny Golson on an album named  "Here and Now"   Mercury MG 20698
Their rendition of "Ruby, My Dear" written by T. Monk, is one of those songs that will just stop you, lower your blood pressure, sooth your soul, and make you listen.   

(https://thumbs.worthpoint.com/zoom/images1/1/0311/22/art-farmer-benny-golson-jazztet-now_1_f90e7f5b6aaeb24d637d1e26da3d72f2.jpg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Nick B on January 20, 2020, 07:25:59 PM
More Art Farmer this afternoon.  Just got this one unpacked.
Art and Benny Golson on an album named  "Here and Now"   Mercury MG 20698
There rendition of "Ruby, My Dear" written by T. Monk, is one of those songs that will just stop you, lower your blood pressure, sooth your soul, and make you listen.   

(https://thumbs.worthpoint.com/zoom/images1/1/0311/22/art-farmer-benny-golson-jazztet-now_1_f90e7f5b6aaeb24d637d1e26da3d72f2.jpg)

Found it on Tidal. Some nice listening after returning today from a trip. Thx
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Nick B on January 31, 2020, 10:41:25 PM
Eliminator by ZZ Top
streamed via Roon
much increased resolution with Uber Puertos

https://www.amazon.com/s?k=eliminator+cd&i=popular&crid=2X7QAEJGEMECD&sprefix=Eliminator%2Cpopular%2C219&ref=nb_sb_ss_i_4_10
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on February 05, 2020, 04:01:59 PM
Bill Evans  "Trio 64"  on Verve w/ Gary Peacock on bass and Paul Motian on drums. 
Why, because I just got a copy, VG+ 1964 pressing.
This is another lp that arrived a notch below as advertised, not the NM- that I paid for  :(
It has it moments, but mostly it's one of the weaker/ maybe weakest Bill Evans lp's I own.  Peacock on bass solos a lot without going anywhere interesting.  Motian does a nice job on drums.
(https://jacket.blob.core.windows.net/export/uccu-5584.jpg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on February 13, 2020, 04:13:34 PM
What:  Bach Conc. for two Violins on blue label Angel s-36006   with Nathan Milstein and Erica Morini

Why: Although the Angel label his somewhat looked down upon, they would occasionally hit it out of the park.  I've found the blue angels of the 1960's to be about 50/50... and this one of the good ones, the really really good ones.  This is one you should look for over at Discogs and spend $20 for a clean copy.  Morini is such an accomplished violinist.  Heifetz reputedly asked her for tips on her trill technique, and couldn't reproduce it.  My mouse has died, and I am helpless to click and copy without it so no photo posted, but look it up. 

Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Nick B on February 13, 2020, 07:52:28 PM
What:  Bach Conc. for two Violins on blue label Angel s-36006   with Nathan Milstein and Erica Morini

Why: Although the Angel label his somewhat looked down upon, they would occasionally hit it out of the park.  I've found the blue angels of the 1960's to be about 50/50... and this one of the good ones, the really really good ones.  This is one you should look for over at Discogs and spend $20 for a clean copy.  Morini is such an accomplished violinist.  Heifetz reputedly asked her for tips on her trill technique, and couldn't reproduce it.  My mouse has died, and I am helpless to click and copy without it so no photo posted, but look it up.

I’ve searched both Tidal and Qobuz, but sadly can’t find it. Will play some Morini. Hadn’t heard of her, but I play very little classical music. Thanks for posting.
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: dBe on February 13, 2020, 11:37:01 PM
This:

https://www.facebook.com/philippe.saisse/videos/10157950145170006/UzpfSTEwNTIxODcxOTY6MTAyMTc4NDMzNDAxNjkxNTE/

Because they KILL it!

For a 22 year old (at the time or, uh, anytime) Senri is incredibly tasty.
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on February 14, 2020, 07:09:09 AM
That's good stuff, Dave!

Nick, Erica Morini does a version of the Tchaikovsky Violin Concerto on the Westminster label that is top notch, and it's on you tube.  I don't think there is a stereo version, but it will give you an idea of what she can do (and give you a reason to put together a mono vinyl rig!)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Nick B on February 14, 2020, 10:05:14 AM
That's good stuff, Dave!

Nick, Erica Morini does a version of the Tchaikovsky Violin Concerto on the Westminster label that is top notch, and it's on you tube.  I don't think there is a stereo version, but it will give you an idea of what she can do (and give you a reason to put together a mono vinyl rig!)

I did find it. Beautifully played and I looked up the word “trill”. It appears that the trill is a bit of artistic license by the performer and the music is not written that way. Is that correct?
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on February 14, 2020, 11:44:12 AM
A trill is often written into the score.  I remember my Bach preludes had lots of trills written in... it's a zig zag line, much like a resistor symbol.

(https://themusicworkshop.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/mordent.jpg)
The trill is the first zig zag, the mordent is the one with the line through it.
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Nick B on February 14, 2020, 05:09:41 PM
A trill is often written into the score.  I remember my Bach preludes had lots of trills written in... it's a zig zag line, much like a resistor symbol.

(https://themusicworkshop.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/mordent.jpg)
The trill is the first zig zag, the mordent is the one with the line through it.

Thanks, Scott. I’m getting quite an education on this site. I also just looked up the term mordent. It seems you may be a musician. If so, can you advise what instrument(s)? Also, if others are musicians, it would be fun to know that as well.
As to Morini’s trill technique, are you able to explain this or does one need to hear it to fully appreciate it? If true, it’s fascinating that Heifetz couldn’t reproduce her technique.
Nick
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on February 14, 2020, 05:37:38 PM
Great thread Scott, thank you. Just ran across this.
I've been scarce with audio forums recently, but look forward to pursuing this thread.
No doubt I've got something to offer, based on the requirements on post #1, but let me catch up first.....
Love threads like these!
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: dBe on February 14, 2020, 05:39:12 PM
The result of polyticks these daze...


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_oL_pCjPgUg&list=RDKTHMXiTbssQ&index=13
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on February 14, 2020, 08:15:19 PM
A trill is often written into the score.  I remember my Bach preludes had lots of trills written in... it's a zig zag line, much like a resistor symbol.

(https://themusicworkshop.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/mordent.jpg)
The trill is the first zig zag, the mordent is the one with the line through it.

Thanks, Scott. I’m getting quite an education on this site. I also just looked up the term mordent. It seems you may be a musician. If so, can you advise what instrument(s)? Also, if others are musicians, it would be fun to know that as well.
As to Morini’s trill technique, are you able to explain this or does one need to hear it to fully appreciate it? If true, it’s fascinating that Heifetz couldn’t reproduce her technique.
Nick
If you look at the music, the note on the top line with the trill and mordent notation is what's on the sheet, but the notes in the bottom line is how it's played.  A trill plays the main note, the note above, and the main note again in the time allowed for the single note.  The mordent plays the main note, the note below, and the main note again in the time allowed for the single note.  If that doesn't make sense, see the video.
Yep, I played piano for several years before girls and football distracted me to other endeavors.   Here's a slightly verbose explanation of a mordent and a trill

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RM1Kzb1tmHQ

Dave, that's a great video... but anything with Keb Mo gets my approval.
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Nick B on February 14, 2020, 08:52:25 PM
A trill is often written into the score.  I remember my Bach preludes had lots of trills written in... it's a zig zag line, much like a resistor symbol.

(https://themusicworkshop.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/mordent.jpg)
The trill is the first zig zag, the mordent is the one with the line through it.

Thanks, Scott. I’m getting quite an education on this site. I also just looked up the term mordent. It seems you may be a musician. If so, can you advise what instrument(s)? Also, if others are musicians, it would be fun to know that as well.
As to Morini’s trill technique, are you able to explain this or does one need to hear it to fully appreciate it? If true, it’s fascinating that Heifetz couldn’t reproduce her technique.
Nick
Yep, I played piano for several years before girls and football distracted me to other endeavors.   Here's a slightly verbose explanation of a mordent and a trill

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RM1Kzb1tmHQ

Dave, that's a great video... but anything with Keb Mo gets my approval.

Very helpful to actually hear demonstrated. Interesting also to learn about ornaments, upper and lower mordants, diatronic trills, etc. Thx
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on February 23, 2020, 02:59:39 PM
"The Jazz Messengers"   Horace Silver, Art Blakey, Donald Byrd, Hank Mobley, and Doug Watkins
This 1956 recording was usually named the second of the dozens of "Jazz Messenger" records.  The early groups were co led by Blakey and Silver and were active in searching out young talent on the way up.  On this lp, Hank Mobley and Don Byrd were the new guys just getting known. 
Byrd's trumpet and Blakey's drums are always upstage, but Mobley's mellow, smooth sax is what draws me in.  Silver shows he can be subdued and still be creative.  This is just great jazz.  Only recorded in mono for the purist, but available in fake stereo. 
When looking, I found I had two early copies of this.  I know I picked these up for about $5 or less... and it bizarre what this stuff goes for now.
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/a/ab/Jazzmessengerscolumbia1956.jpg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on March 01, 2020, 05:46:00 PM
"Money Jungle"  Blue Note  85129  French pressing from the 80's
Duke Ellington, Charles Mingus, and Max Roach
So much of the perception of Duke is his work as a big band leader, but this is a more intimate and modern sound.  Most are newly written by the Duke, and are just more modern than his swing work.  In a trio, no one gets to hide, no one gets to slack off... everyone gets heard.  But when your trio includes Mingus and Roach, that's just not a problem. 
If you think the Duke is just old school, listen to Fleurette Africaine.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0vUHaSB1adI
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on March 01, 2020, 05:47:33 PM
"Money Jungle"  Blue Note  85129  French pressing from the 80's
Duke Ellington, Charles Mingus, and Max Roach
So much of the perception of Duke is his work as a big band leader, but this is a more intimate and modern sound.  Most are newly written by the Duke, and are just more modern than his swing work.  In a trio, no one gets to hide, no one gets to slack off... everyone gets heard.  But when your trio includes Mingus and Roach, that's just not a problem. 
If you think the Duke is just old school, listen to Fleurette Africaine.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0vUHaSB1adI

Oh, and I like the French DMM pressings.  Collectors turn up their noses, and I think the sonics are great.  Not going to shell out $300 for a first pressing. 

(https://img.discogs.com/NLmNkmOtBH6VTZaXCNEpITf7RMY=/fit-in/600x602/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(90)/discogs-images/R-1956670-1328960246.jpeg.jpg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on March 01, 2020, 07:18:43 PM
Sting "A Touch of Jazz" 
I love Sting; I love jazz. 
I don't own this ...   yet.  But having just found it on youtube, I'll find a copy soon. 
Ok, he doesn't hit every song out of the park, but he bats at least as well as Ted Williams. 

Take a listen to Elton John's Come Down in Time at 36:43.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bCFO8wLgZPo&t=56s
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on March 01, 2020, 07:36:28 PM
MORE STING! 
If you haven't heard or seen the musical "The Last Ship", it's Stings autobiographical tribute to growing up in the shipyards of England.  Some of it is good, some mediocre, some absolutely sublime. 
This has been taken off youtube for a good while, so take a listen while it's up again.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TbMY9lf58FA&t=2041s 
If your attention span begins to waver go to 28:10 for "Technical Arrangement" , a duet that can move me to tears when the mood is right.
(https://ordway.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/LastShip-web_perf-new-1000x1000px.jpg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Nick B on March 01, 2020, 10:36:58 PM
MORE STING! 
If you haven't heard or seen the musical "The Last Ship", it's Stings autobiographical tribute to growing up in the shipyards of England.  Some of it is good, some mediocre, some absolutely sublime. 
This has been taken off youtube for a good while, so take a listen while it's up again.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TbMY9lf58FA&t=2041s 
If your attention span begins to waver go to 28:10 for "Technical Arrangement" , a duet that can move me to tears when the mood is right.
(https://ordway.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/LastShip-web_perf-new-1000x1000px.jpg)

No, I wasn’t aware and I did jump to 28:10. Some beautiful and meaningful tunes thereafter. Thanks for posting.
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on March 07, 2020, 05:56:31 AM
I'm sure many of you know we lost one of the greats yesterday, the jazz pianist McCoy Tyner.
He created so much beautiful music, both on his own, and with Coltrane.

(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/d/dd/Inception_%28McCoy_Tyner_album%29.jpg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on April 02, 2020, 05:31:32 PM
Jackson Berkey "Ballade" on the American Grammaphone label.  Most know the label from the Mannheim Steamroller recordings (of which I'm not a fan), but they take the productions seriously and produce high quality recordings and pressings. 
This is a compilation of Debussey, Rachmaninoff, and Satie short pieces that very well recorded.  If you've got the speakers, you can put the concert grand convincingly in your living room.  It's hard to get the lower octaves and the reverb of a big grand right, the this recording does.
And on top of that, the performance is romantic and personal... enough to make you listen to music you may be very familiar with. 
AND..... vinyl copies are cheap.  Not often can you find quality for the price of a hamburger and fries. 

(https://img.discogs.com/ya7cCT8mryL7izOJ0N5MgoK06RI=/fit-in/600x600/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(90)/discogs-images/R-6070447-1532441197-4641.jpeg.jpg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: tmazz on April 02, 2020, 07:44:29 PM
Jackson Berkey did another classical album for American Gramaphone called Sunken Cathedral. If you like Ballade, you should check that one out as well.

(https://img.discogs.com/qYsk6apStlNXflDl8Aqn7FJhmes=/fit-in/592x600/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(90)/discogs-images/R-3941415-1430173133-2466.jpeg.jpg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on April 02, 2020, 07:51:49 PM
Yep, I've got it.  You're right, it's another good one. 
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: allenzachary on April 29, 2020, 06:19:58 AM
This joyous cover of Yes' Close to The Edge, done by Richie Castellano and friends.  They are not pros, just interested fans and pretty talented musicians.  Yes themselves, in all of the various incarnations of the band, have not sounded this good in many, many years.  Love this.

https://youtu.be/aG-x1VbHRFg (https://youtu.be/aG-x1VbHRFg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on June 01, 2020, 08:22:57 PM
Junior Mance Trio at the Village Vanguard on Jazzland Records.  Jazzland was a side label for Riverside. 
This is a 1985 Original Jazz Classics (OJC) pressing.  One of the nice attributes of the OJC pressings is that they had access to all the mastertapes of Riverside, Prestige, and Contemporary... so their reissues are close to the source and not some BS cd knockoff. 

Junior Mance is one of the pianist that played with everyone in the '50s, and developed a busy, bluesy style... a love child of Fats Waller and Oscar Peterson.  Just got my copy in the mail.  This a big sounding trio of high quality jazz. 

(https://images.recordsale.de/512/512/junior-mance-trio_at-the-village-vanguard_4.jpg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on December 20, 2020, 09:51:48 AM
Here's another guy who played with everyone... Rocky Boyd, saxophonist.  He logged time with Johnny Griffin, Philly Jo Jones, Pete la Roca, Max Roach... even toured with Miles for part of a year. 
Here he is with Kenny Dorham, Ron Carter, Pete la Roca, and Walter Bishop in his only album as leader.  On Jazz Time JT0001- yep Jazz Times' first lp. 
Found a 1961 pressing at the local record store for $15.  My buddy that runs the store has finally started looking up values of unknown jazz on discogs, whereas for the last decade he simply put $2 on everything other than Miles, Getz, Coltrane, or Bird.  Fortunately, he just looks at average price and doesn't check by record #, so first pressings go for the same price as repressings. 
This is worth looking up if you are a fan of K. Dorham.

(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/4/43/Ease_It.jpg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: malloy on January 09, 2021, 11:42:48 PM
"Una Furtiva Lagrima" (A Furtive Tear), an aria from Donizetti's opera, 'The Elixir of Love'. Explanation here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Una_furtiva_lagrima (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Una_furtiva_lagrima)

I am comparing the Italian tenors Caruso, Bergonzi, and Pavarotti's renditions on Spotify. While some argue that Caruso's or Bergonzi's are some of the best versions due to depth of interpretation, there is really nothing like the effortless delivery (IMO) that Pavarotti brings to it. His runs at the end showcase his technical prowess by singing the last notes pianissimo to fortissimo seemingly in one breathe!

There are so many more versions mentioned here: https://medicine-opera.com/2010/12/una-furtiva-lagrima-a-bakers-dozen/ (https://medicine-opera.com/2010/12/una-furtiva-lagrima-a-bakers-dozen/) for opera fanatics.

(https://rovimusic.rovicorp.com/image.jpg?c=hULMmrMYB5cbtWUlcpQhgwSijaXJlYnq0St31qpAJWo=&f=5)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: malloy on January 10, 2021, 09:04:46 PM
The Sisters of Mercy Floodland album.

(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/3/31/The_Sisters_of_Mercy_-_Floodland_cover_art.png/220px-The_Sisters_of_Mercy_-_Floodland_cover_art.png)

I've been a Sisters fan since I heard 'Walk Away', but this second album is the one that got me, hook, line and sinker.

With dark, deep symbolism, esoteric lyrics, a pounding guitar and drum machine-based sound, and of course, Eldritch's deep-baritone voice that sounded like nothing I've heard before or since. This is the album that made me a fan of gothic-rock music.

I have this on original LP and reissued CD.
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Nick B on January 10, 2021, 09:32:52 PM
"Una Furtiva Lagrima" (A Furtive Tear), an aria from Donizetti's opera, 'The Elixir of Love'. Explanation here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Una_furtiva_lagrima (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Una_furtiva_lagrima)

I am comparing the Italian tenors Caruso, Bergonzi, and Pavarotti's renditions on Spotify. While some argue that Caruso's or Bergonzi's are some of the best versions due to depth of interpretation, there is really nothing like the effortless delivery (IMO) that Pavarotti brings to it. His runs at the end showcase his technical prowess by singing the last notes pianissimo to fortissimo seemingly in one breathe!

There are so many more versions mentioned here: https://medicine-opera.com/2010/12/una-furtiva-lagrima-a-bakers-dozen/ (https://medicine-opera.com/2010/12/una-furtiva-lagrima-a-bakers-dozen/) for opera fanatics.

(https://rovimusic.rovicorp.com/image.jpg?c=hULMmrMYB5cbtWUlcpQhgwSijaXJlYnq0St31qpAJWo=&f=5)

I’m quite inexperienced in this area, but Pavarotti is, by far, my favorite. My mother spoke of Caruso and I’ve listened to him. But I had not heard of Bergonzi. Might be time to search Tidal and Qobuz :thumb:
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: malloy on March 03, 2021, 09:48:02 PM
Ella and Basie: A Perfect Match

This is a live recording from Montreaux in 1979 with members of the Count Basie Orchestra backing Ella. Critics say she had begun to fade in the late 70s, but I think she was still superb.

This contains my favorite live interpretation of 'Round Midnight. So much feeling in this version.

I bought two versions of the disc. One, a reissue from Fantasy/Pablo Records from 1987 (Universal 2006) and a 20Bit Remastered from the JVC Heritage Series (also from 2006).

I was lucky to find a sealed copy of both, one from a seller on Amazon in NC and the JVC one from a record store in Hong Kong. The cd from NC, arrived after 3 weeks today. The Hong Kong disc arrived after only 8 days!

(https://i.ibb.co/CnyCSBT/image1-1.jpg)

The original CD on top is embarrassingly basic.  No liner notes, no back cover, and features a fuzzy front image.

The Japanese reissue is much better and looks like a mini LP version of the original Pablo LP album:

(https://i.ibb.co/Gdp4jR0/image0-1.jpg)

I created wav files of both and transferred them to my digital player.

As for the sound, the Japanese version sounds more dynamic. It is remastered louder, so I tried my best to level match the two with an SPL app on my phone. The original recording is fine, but the 20Bit version has more warmth, depth, dynamics, and detail - a more 'you are there', 'hearing closer into the live feed' feeling.
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Nick B on March 03, 2021, 11:52:09 PM
Ella and Basie: A Perfect Match

This is a live recording from Montreaux in 1979 with members of the Count Basie Orchestra backing Ella. Critics say she had begun to fade in the late 70s, but I think she was still superb.

This contains my favorite live interpretation of 'Round Midnight. So much feeling in this version.

I bought two versions of the disc. One, a reissue from Fantasy/Pablo Records from 1987 (Universal 2006) and a 20Bit Remastered from the JVC Heritage Series (also from 2006).

I was lucky to find a sealed copy of both, one from a seller on Amazon in NC and the JVC one from a record store in Hong Kong. The cd from NC, arrived after 3 weeks today. The Hong Kong disc arrived after only 8 days!

(https://i.ibb.co/CnyCSBT/image1-1.jpg)

The original CD on top is embarrassingly basic.  No liner notes, no back cover, and features a fuzzy front image.

The Japanese reissue is much better and looks like a mini LP version of the original Pablo LP album:

(https://i.ibb.co/Gdp4jR0/image0-1.jpg)

I created wav files of both and transferred them to my digital player.

As for the sound, the Japanese version sounds more dynamic. It is remastered louder, so I tried my best to level match the two with an SPL app on my phone. The original recording is fine, but the 20Bit version has more warmth, depth, dynamics, and detail - a more 'you are there', 'hearing closer into the live feed' feeling.

Hi Paul,
Thanks for posting. Glad you found those different versions, even as far away as HK! I found this album on Roon, both Tidal and Qobuz, and am listening right now! Sounds pretty good on the new addition, AVA...more to follow soon on that  :lol:
Hope you and your dear wife are doing well down SD way.
Nick
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: malloy on March 04, 2021, 05:05:41 PM

Hi Paul,
Thanks for posting. Glad you found those different versions, even as far away as HK! I found this album on Roon, both Tidal and Qobuz, and am listening right now! Sounds pretty good on the new addition, AVA...more to follow soon on that  :lol:
Hope you and your dear wife are doing well down SD way.
Nick

Hi Nick,

I am overjoyed that I found these sealed copies! I actually found about this recording through the YouTube video version and then on MP3 through Spotify.  Ooohh you have a new Van Alstine amp?!!

We are doing fine here, thanks for asking!  :thumb:

I'm trying to find more of these JVC reissues. Let's see if the HK seller has more of them. His store is actually a physical record store over in the business district over there. https://www.yelp.com/biz/time-traveler-%E9%A6%99%E6%B8%AF (https://www.yelp.com/biz/time-traveler-%E9%A6%99%E6%B8%AF)

From what I experienced in HK, they are very serious about audio and records. There was an 8-storey building I visited there with nothing but hi-fi stores in the early 2000s...

Paul
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Nick B on March 05, 2021, 01:12:26 AM

Hi Paul,
Thanks for posting. Glad you found those different versions, even as far away as HK! I found this album on Roon, both Tidal and Qobuz, and am listening right now! Sounds pretty good on the new addition, AVA...more to follow soon on that  :lol:
Hope you and your dear wife are doing well down SD way.
Nick

Hi Nick,

I am overjoyed that I found these sealed copies! I actually found about this recording through the YouTube video version and then on MP3 through Spotify.  Ooohh you have a new Van Alstine amp?!!

We are doing fine here, thanks for asking!  :thumb:

I'm trying to find more of these JVC reissues. Let's see if the HK seller has more of them. His store is actually a physical record store over in the business district over there. https://www.yelp.com/biz/time-traveler-%E9%A6%99%E6%B8%AF (https://www.yelp.com/biz/time-traveler-%E9%A6%99%E6%B8%AF)

From what I experienced in HK, they are very serious about audio and records. There was an 8-storey building I visited there with nothing but hi-fi stores in the early 2000s...

Paul

Hi Paul,
Yes, indeed, there are some serious audiophiles there. I sold one of my 2 cartridges to a HK buyer. I have heard good things about the JVC reissues.
Nick
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: malloy on April 19, 2021, 07:38:44 PM
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/7/7f/Megadeth-SoFar.jpg)

Megadeth. So Far, So Good...So What!  on Spotify.  :lol:

Thrash metal from back in the 80s.  Good after a long, trying day at work!

I still remember a Dave Mustaine interview in Circus magazine from the 80s where he said something like, "I don't write songs from the heart. You're writing love songs, if you're doing that!" Mustaine sings not from the heart, but from the gut. Just a few seconds of listening to his songs and you know what I mean. He half growls, half screeches.

A quote from a critic written in Wikipedia says ,"...So Far, So Good... So What! displays music performed at "volumes approaching the threshold of pain."

Apocalyptic themes, blazing fast guitar riffs and solos, double-bass pedal grooves, all played very loudly.

Not typical audiophile fare, but probably a great workout for your subwoofers. Very intense and scary indeed.

Paul





Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on May 11, 2021, 07:15:20 PM
I needed to play something through a newly cleaned volume pot in a rigged up system on batteries on the kitchen table. So i grabbed my box set of Mercury Living Presence Collector's Edition II cd's, kinda reached in and pulled out #42... which turned out to be Paul Paray and the Detroit Sym. playing Ibert and Ravel. 
I'd kinda forgotten how full these old recording were.  The original masters from 1953 (yes, that's the right year) were recorded and mixed for mono with three mics, anticipating that they might do stereo in the future.  The woman in charge then was Wilma Cozart, and she was again in charge of producing the cd set decades later. 
Mercury isn't the be all end all for detail, but what a warm 25th row sound. Just perfect. Just sounds real. 

(https://img.discogs.com/o_DmBwrndgD6MVybxlApwN1N30U=/fit-in/300x300/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(40)/discogs-images/R-3906412-1362789938-7628.jpeg.jpg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Nick B on May 11, 2021, 09:55:35 PM
I needed to play something through a newly cleaned volume pot in a rigged up system on batteries on the kitchen table. So i grabbed my box set of Mercury Living Presence Collector's Edition II cd's, kinda reached in and pulled out #42... which turned out to be Paul Paray and the Detroit Sym. playing Ibert and Ravel. 
I'd kinda forgotten how full these old recording were.  The original masters from 1953 (yes, that's the right year) were recorded and mixed for mono with three mics, anticipating that they might do stereo in the future.  The woman in charge then was Wilma Cozart, and she was again in charge of producing the cd set decades later. 
Mercury isn't the be all end all for detail, but what a warm 25th row sound. Just perfect. Just sounds real. 

(https://img.discogs.com/o_DmBwrndgD6MVybxlApwN1N30U=/fit-in/300x300/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(40)/discogs-images/R-3906412-1362789938-7628.jpeg.jpg)

I did a Roon search and couldn’t find that exact album. Was able, though, to find Paul Paray and the Detroit Symphony playing Ravel on another label.
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on May 11, 2021, 10:17:01 PM
It was released in stereo in 1963. 
Mercury ‎– SR 90313
According to Discogs there is a mint copy available in Austria if you've got an extra $750 burning a hole in your pocket. I've got quite a few of the old Mercuries, but few worth more than $50. However record prices have gone insane, so I might be surprised if I look them up.  I've got to get moving on putting labels with values on each so that one day my wife or daughter doesn't dump then in a garage sale for fifty cents a piece. 
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Nick B on May 11, 2021, 11:01:41 PM
Thanks! As I’m typing this, I’m already investigating the Austrian/US exchange rate….well, maybe not  :roll:
It is fun sometimes trying to find on Roon what albums you and the other guys list
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: tmazz on May 12, 2021, 11:14:51 AM
it is available on Tidal as part of this collection:

https://listen.tidal.com/album/4405382/track/4405405

The CD is also on Discogs for $3.99

https://www.discogs.com/sell/release/7361712
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Nick B on May 12, 2021, 11:46:56 AM
it is available on Tidal as part of this collection:

https://listen.tidal.com/album/4405382/track/4405405

The CD is also on Discogs for $3.99

https://www.discogs.com/sell/release/7361712

The Tidal link works if I do a cut and paste. But if I am actually within the Tidal app, then different search methodologies have not worked for me. My search skills are so so for various apps and web searches as well. Appreciate the links, though.
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: tmazz on May 12, 2021, 07:10:41 PM
If you are in the Tidal app then you can try searching by the title of this collection, Paul Paray Conducts French Orchestral Music.
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Nick B on May 12, 2021, 07:34:53 PM
If you are in the Tidal app then you can try searching by the title of this collection, Paul Paray Conducts French Orchestral Music.

That worked …  I had typed in variations of that, but not the precise title. I’ll be listening to it after finishing up some chores… ugh…
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: tmazz on May 12, 2021, 07:46:07 PM
That is a 5 CD set that has all of what is contained on teh CD you were looking for plus a whole lot more and it is all good dtuff.

Enjoy :D
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on June 30, 2021, 08:18:14 PM
(https://img.discogs.com/k9ILacvRcKQHE7fKkfl6Te_Tyhs=/fit-in/600x600/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(90)/discogs-images/R-9757255-1485892856-8668.jpeg.jpg)

This is a classic early Mercury Living Presence sound, full, rich, and just musically right.  RCA's, EMI, Phillips, and good Deutche's can be stunningly detailed, but Mercury puts you in the hall on about the 25th row.  Much of the time the instruments blend, but solos ring out and certain phrases anchor the orchestra into a clear space.  They just sound like being in the concert hall. 
This Katchaturian/Tchaikovsky is standard fare delivered by Dorati and the London Sym. in a fine performance from 1961. 
A VG+ copy will set you back $20-25, and NM will be almost double.  But if you're serious about classical vinyl, make the investment. You won't regret it. 
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on July 23, 2021, 07:05:35 PM
A friend and I bought several Japanese pressings of several classic jazz albums a few months ago.  One that he bid on and got was Tommy Flanagan Trio  "Lonely Town".  So he finally got around to loaning it to me, and I gotta say, Wow.  What a great pressing and recording!  The bass player is amazingly full and real, and I don't know if I've ever heard the high hat sizzle as accurately.  The sound is great, the music is great.  I can kinda overlook it if the bass player comes in slightly off key (flat) on a couple of numbers- quickly forgotten as the music moves on.

(https://img.discogs.com/hJgxdo_syA-zU3T2r6bXFjw3zoo=/fit-in/600x600/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(90)/discogs-images/R-4293365-1532632516-9396.jpeg.jpg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Nick B on July 24, 2021, 12:43:39 AM
A friend and I bought several Japanese pressings of several classic jazz albums a few months ago.  One that he bid on and got was Tommy Flanagan Trio  "Lonely Town".  So he finally got around to loaning it to me, and I gotta say, Wow.  What a great pressing and recording!  The bass player is amazingly full and real, and I don't know if I've ever heard the high hat sizzle as accurately.  The sound is great, the music is great.  I can kinda overlook it if the bass player comes in slightly off key (flat) on a couple of numbers- quickly forgotten as the music moves on.

(https://img.discogs.com/hJgxdo_syA-zU3T2r6bXFjw3zoo=/fit-in/600x600/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(90)/discogs-images/R-4293365-1532632516-9396.jpeg.jpg)

Scott,
Am curious what TT and cart are you using?
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on July 24, 2021, 06:36:49 AM
The rig I was listening to was a Victor TT-81 through a Graham Slee gold.  Arm is a Jelco 750 mounted to a voodoo pod created by Dave "The Man" Elledge. Cables by Wywires and Audio Sensibility. The cart was a Sumiko Blackbird with a micro ridge stylus installed by Steve Leung (a nice step up from the Soundsmith ruby cantilever/line contact)--- nothing super fancy or extra expensive.  All equipment chosen for quality/value ratio in my small room second system. 
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Nick B on July 24, 2021, 08:52:25 AM
The rig I was listening to was a Victor TT-81 through a Graham Slee gold.  Arm is a Jelco 750 mounted to a voodoo pod created by Dave "The Man" Elledge. Cables by Wywires and Audio Sensibility. The cart was a Sumiko Blackbird with a micro ridge stylus installed by Steve Leung (a nice step up from the Soundsmith ruby cantilever/line contact)--- nothing super fancy or extra expensive.  All equipment chosen for quality/value ratio in my small room second system.

Budget friendly and good sounding is always a nice combo 😀  I googled voodoo pod and came up empty. Can you elaborate?
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on July 24, 2021, 09:44:32 AM
It was meant jokingly... obviously not successfully.   :D
Dave and I were discussing tone arm pods a couple of years back.  I'd mounted a branch of mesquite to a 1 1/2" slab of lead, drilled it, and made a tonearm pod.  Dave had some ideas he wanted to try with some of his magic anti emf powder and lead shot. And of course, unlike my rather ugly homemade pod, Dave finished it out in walnut veneer and polished it to look like fine furniture.  He messed with it for a good while, but I've had it now for over a year and I sincerely think it adds to the resolution of the arm and system. 
I've often thought that Dave should make a couple of dozen of them and sell them. My guess is that the pod is a one off. 
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: P.I. on July 24, 2021, 10:29:34 AM
It was meant jokingly... obviously not successfully.   :D
Dave and I were discussing tone arm pods a couple of years back.  I'd mounted a branch of mesquite to a 1 1/2" slab of lead, drilled it, and made a tonearm pod.  Dave had some ideas he wanted to try with some of his magic anti emf powder and lead shot. And of course, unlike my rather ugly homemade pod, Dave finished it out in walnut veneer and polished it to look like fine furniture.  He messed with it for a good while, but I've had it now for over a year and I sincerely think it adds to the resolution of the arm and system. 
I've often thought that Dave should make a couple of dozen of them and sell them. My guess is that the pod is a one off.
Yes, it is.  I wish I had time to do more things like this, but I am just buried with work and I'm struggling with my arthritis and trying to catch up.. as if!  Never happen.
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Nick B on July 24, 2021, 01:01:03 PM
It was meant jokingly... obviously not successfully.   :D
Dave and I were discussing tone arm pods a couple of years back.  I'd mounted a branch of mesquite to a 1 1/2" slab of lead, drilled it, and made a tonearm pod.  Dave had some ideas he wanted to try with some of his magic anti emf powder and lead shot. And of course, unlike my rather ugly homemade pod, Dave finished it out in walnut veneer and polished it to look like fine furniture.  He messed with it for a good while, but I've had it now for over a year and I sincerely think it adds to the resolution of the arm and system. 
I've often thought that Dave should make a couple of dozen of them and sell them. My guess is that the pod is a one off.

Yes, that one got by me…. 🤷  But I’ll agree that Dave has been known to work some magic with his creations…
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: tmazz on July 24, 2021, 09:34:03 PM
It was meant jokingly... obviously not successfully.   :D
Dave and I were discussing tone arm pods a couple of years back.  I'd mounted a branch of mesquite to a 1 1/2" slab of lead, drilled it, and made a tonearm pod.  Dave had some ideas he wanted to try with some of his magic anti emf powder and lead shot. And of course, unlike my rather ugly homemade pod, Dave finished it out in walnut veneer and polished it to look like fine furniture.  He messed with it for a good while, but I've had it now for over a year and I sincerely think it adds to the resolution of the arm and system. 
I've often thought that Dave should make a couple of dozen of them and sell them. My guess is that the pod is a one off.
Yes, it is.  I wish I had time to do more things like this, but I am just buried with work and I'm struggling with my arthritis and trying to catch up.. as if!  Never happen.

Well if you stopped designing such damn good products maybe you wouldn't sell so many and would get a change to take a break.  :rofl:
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: P.I. on July 24, 2021, 11:38:20 PM

Well if you stopped designing such damn good products maybe you wouldn't sell so many and would get a change to take a break.  :rofl:
My brain is working all of the time and my body is trying futilely to keep up.

I love what I do.  My thing is figuring out what is needed and then researching, building crap that doesn't get there and forging on to find an answer that I am happy with that will do the job, whatever it might be.  I'm a total idiot when it comes to merchandizing, too picky when it comes to hiring an assistant (hint:  any applicants here?) and I have the world's worst time management skills.

I will be raising my prices at the end of the month... materials increases are staggering!

But I digress...

I LOVE what I do:  creating things that reveal the beauty of one of God's greatest gifts ; music.

Thanks, Tom!  :thumb:
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: tmazz on July 25, 2021, 06:09:32 AM

.........creating things that reveal the beauty of one of God's greatest gifts ; music.


Amen to that!
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: tmazz on August 01, 2021, 08:15:30 PM
Fiddler on the Roof - Original Broadway Cast Recording

(https://img.discogs.com/fgVKJcTT5Fldbu_Fb1Y1xT8aiN0=/fit-in/600x604/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(90)/discogs-images/R-13445365-1586133231-6571.jpeg.jpg)

RCA Victor LP

This was the first Broadway production I ever attended. My parents took me to see it when I was 8 years old.

It is also the record that opened my eyes to the difference among pressing of a given album, I this particular copy is a 1S pressing that I found in t thrift shop in great condition for the whopping price of 69 cents. I have several other RCA copies of this exact album and none of them come close to this one in terms of SQ. I have a number of other 1S pressings of different RCA albums that I don't think sound particularly better than records made from other stampers, so I can't say that all 1S pressing are the better by far, but this one sure is.

The precision of the sound staging and overall "realness" of the presentation is head and shoulders over all of the other pressings I have, including the 180g reissue that was released a few years ago. I don't know why it is better, but I am just enjoying the fact that it is.
 
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on August 01, 2021, 09:45:52 PM
RCA 1s stampers are worth seeking out, but can get overvalued if bought at full collectors retail.  I find plum label Victrola reissues of collectable LSC records to often be available in early stampers and great values.  For grins, go to Ebay and type in VICS 1s and see what pops up.  Often $8-12 for 1s vinyl... usually an excellent value.  But their prices have been climbing for several years now.
Here's one that I know to be an very fine pressing for really cheap...  https://www.ebay.com/itm/193684319735?hash=item2d187c2df7:g:jrsAAOSwD75fb1Ib
Wow.  Looking deeper, I see that their prices have usually doubled from where they were a year or two ago. 
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on December 18, 2021, 02:28:07 PM
Dave Brubeck Quartet "Bossa Nova USA"
In 1963 everyone was jumping aboard the Bossa Nova sound, and Brubeck and crew followed suite. 
But for me, what made Brubeck great was his inventiveness with time signatures, and even a syncopated 2/4 signature doesn't allow for much creativity.  And so it went for Dave as well, not the most inventive of his work, but when Paul Desmond starts to blow, you just really don't care.  All you really want to do is sit back and listen to his tone... so pure, so mellow. 

(https://img.discogs.com/xSaj6OSFqt8x7DCB6un5Ok2EyTQ=/fit-in/600x600/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(90)/discogs-images/R-1661454-1235240873.jpeg.jpg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: malloy on January 31, 2022, 10:13:34 PM
The Omega Man Unlimited 2.0 CD reissue by Film Score Monthly. Here are the production and track notes. Very interesting: http://www.filmscoremonthly.com/notes/retrograde80127_notes.pdf

Finally got a copy of this limited issue CD. AS I've detailed in an earlier post, this is an underrated, but very collectible (and rare!) album.

(https://i.ibb.co/yNwDjHt/omega-man-cd.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/4ftZhDB/omega-man-cd-back.jpg)


The Cult - Live at the Marquee Club in London 1991 Double CD- Hard rock at it's rawest, finest! If you are a fan of Led Zeppelin-esque, straight-up rock, powerful vocals, and guitars, this might be for you.

(https://i.ibb.co/vwmjwKj/the-cult.jpg)

Space Battleship Yamato original soundtrack. The live action adaptation of the 1970s Japanese animation space opera Yamato, which was better known in the US as "Star Blazers."  Exciting stuff. Got this off Amazon. Great theme!

(https://i.ibb.co/WBtzPyD/Yamato.jpg)

Paul
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: steve on February 10, 2022, 07:24:21 PM
Just found Lani Gardner doing a great job of singing Dreams.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V1LhC1zGouc

cheers

steve
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: malloy on March 02, 2022, 08:48:43 PM
The 1980s Frankie Goes to Hollywood hit, "Two Tribes", produced by Trevor Horn. The Annihilation mix. Spotify and on CD.

Sadly, still very fitting and relevant for the present and it feels like it is the 80s all over again.

A brilliant arrangement with a driving bass line and some nice sampled parts with air raid sirens.

(http://www.djfood.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/FGTH-ZTAS3-front-cover.jpg)

(https://i.ytimg.com/vi/yQqTCiZ2ICw/maxresdefault.jpg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on July 09, 2022, 01:33:07 PM
I like Oscar Peterson, I really do.  But... somehow I get my fill pretty quickly.  And a friend wanted me to listen to his new three record "A Time For Love"  which is a Helsinki concert. 
Oscar is inventive, articulate, and seldom opts for 3 notes when he can squeeze in 8.  Monk is more for me.  Plenty of space to let me think about what he's done.  Bill Evans?  Never hurried, never brings your attention to his virtuosity.  Brubeck?  He's too cool to get in a rush. 
But back to Oscar.  He's a talent, one of the all time greats.  On side two he plays a ballad that is stunningly good.  But I didn't finish side one.  It's like when rock guitarist goes on a show off solo... after 10 seconds I'm bored.
But this three record set is great sound, and very pretty blue vinyl.  But it's not for me.  But I could definitely see how it could be for you.

(https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0593/2217/1564/products/Danilo_1024x1024.jpg?v=1642780420)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: malloy on July 12, 2022, 10:40:25 PM
Kate Bush

Been rediscovering Kate Bush after watching Stranger Things on Netflix.

I was vaguely familiar with her early work from the late 70s, but I somehow never got into her brand of music.


(https://i.ytimg.com/vi/uuPZUV1i28c/maxresdefault.jpg)

Her singing reminds me of Peking Opera and traditional Chinese singing, but without the discipline nor finesse.

My wife cannot stand her singing, but notes that her voice is "placed" meaning that she is projecting it and she knows how to 'sing.'

Me mum, upon seeing her on tv singing her song "Wow" had asked me, "Is she singing, or is she doing some sort of aerobics?"

I still don't get it. :?: :?: :?:
 
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: P.I. on July 13, 2022, 10:00:56 AM
 :rofl:

I like Kate.  A lot.
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: malloy on July 13, 2022, 08:27:26 PM
:rofl:

I like Kate.  A lot.

 :thumb:
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Nick B on July 13, 2022, 08:51:24 PM
Kate Bush

Been rediscovering Kate Bush after watching Stranger Things on Netflix.

I was vaguely familiar with her early work from the late 70s, but I somehow never got into her brand of music.


(https://i.ytimg.com/vi/uuPZUV1i28c/maxresdefault.jpg)

Her singing reminds me of Peking Opera and traditional Chinese singing, but without the discipline nor finesse.

My wife cannot stand her singing, but notes that her voice is "placed" meaning that she is projecting it and she knows how to 'sing.'

Me mum, upon seeing her on tv singing her song "Wow" had asked me, "Is she singing, or is she doing some sort of aerobics?"

I still don't get it. :?: :?: :?:

Had heard of Kate Bush, but that’s about it. Saw her on a few utube cuts, one of which was Wuthering Heights 2. Yikes….  but fortunately saw a few others and she can sing if she wants to. The style and presentation is not my cuppa tea 🤷
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on July 18, 2022, 08:37:21 PM
"The Nightfly" by Donald Fagen.  I got a new (to me) interconnect to evaluate.  My cd player has two outputs, so I can compare interconnects simply by switching from Aux1 to Aux2.  "The Nightfly" is very well recorded with lots of info in the guitar work, clapping, cowbells, ect.   
Up for evaluation is an Audio Sensibility Statement OCC silver wire.  Better than most of the run of the mill cables I've got, but can't make up my mind when it's up against Wywires Silver.  And honestly, that's pretty high praise.

(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/c/c7/Donald_Fagen_-_The_Nightfly.jpg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on July 18, 2022, 08:41:24 PM
"Diamonds and Rust" by Joan Baez on vinyl.  Just good music and a pretty good pressing.  Why? because I FINALLY got my Victor TT-81 turntable back and set up. 
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/0/05/Diamonds_%26_Rust_%28Joan_Baez_album_-_cover_art%29.jpg)

Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Nick B on July 18, 2022, 09:14:02 PM
"Diamonds and Rust" by Joan Baez on vinyl.  Just good music and a pretty good pressing.  Why? because I FINALLY got my Victor TT-81 turntable back and set up. 
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/0/05/Diamonds_%26_Rust_%28Joan_Baez_album_-_cover_art%29.jpg)

Good things come to those who wait…and wait…and wait. Congrats and at least the work was done well. Enjoy 🎶🎶
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: tmazz on July 18, 2022, 09:40:27 PM
"Diamonds and Rust" by Joan Baez on vinyl.  Just good music and a pretty good pressing.  Why? because I FINALLY got my Victor TT-81 turntable back and set up. 
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/0/05/Diamonds_%26_Rust_%28Joan_Baez_album_-_cover_art%29.jpg)

 :X

Great album. I have the Nautilus Half Speed Pressing.

(https://i.discogs.com/9SfnPC71oQcqod3ZqztcQfXhsJzypL1iBYsuyt4uf3s/rs:fit/g:sm/q:90/h:600/w:600/czM6Ly9kaXNjb2dz/LWRhdGFiYXNlLWlt/YWdlcy9SLTMyMjM0/MTQtMTM2MjM3ODgx/My0yNTc5LmpwZWc.jpeg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: ejk on September 18, 2022, 06:24:44 AM
Sara K.

Don't know where Tmazz has been?
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Nick B on September 18, 2022, 08:53:44 AM
Sara K.

Don't know where Tmazz has been?

Yes, I was also wondering about Tom
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on September 18, 2022, 10:02:17 AM
I've been locked away in my den for 4 days, staying away from my wife after being exposed to Covid  last Wed for two hours in a car.   
So part of passing the time is listening to my new to me copy of the RCA Pines of Rome on an Analogue Productions vinyl.   
Still symptom free and playing music!
(https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/XQgAAOSwlTJhHtXZ/s-l500.jpg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on September 20, 2022, 06:00:40 PM
 :X  After testing negative for Covid, I made a run to the local record store.   
Listening to a NM- copy of Angel Romero and with Andre Previn and the London Sym.   
On 45 rpm, an excellent rendition of one of my favorite pieces.  The pace is just slow enough to hear every note, but not ponderous.   
Rodrigo's Conceirto de Aranjuez.   Just fine music.  I love concertos on my big speakers.  :thumb:

(https://i.discogs.com/HrNlZ72acyRrWVukh3D3dmwhUzoW_XgSc8vAF8KpRl0/rs:fit/g:sm/q:90/h:400/w:600/czM6Ly9kaXNjb2dz/LWRhdGFiYXNlLWlt/YWdlcy9SLTExMjY0/MjU1LTE1MTMwMDI0/NTYtNTI4Mi5qcGVn.jpeg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on October 10, 2022, 08:47:13 PM
I love Chopin.  And I know most of his catalogue reasonably well.  Tonight I pulled out a performance of his Nocturnes by Guimar Novaes on Vox.  I hate Vox.  They are usually noisy, badly pressed vinyls, but the performances can be top quality, and this one was no different.  But after listening though the tics and pops I realized I'd bypassed this lp for so long that really wasn't familiar with the material- these aren't the hugely popular ones.   
This is a different Chopin, dreamy and almost lazy at times.  Flashes of melodic beauty are there but not like most of his other material.  But it's still Chopin, and means compellingly melodic. 
If you like Chopin and are looking for something slightly different, find his complete Nocturnes.  There are some simple little jewels in there.

Vox STPL 512.950
(https://i.discogs.com/oPffshSw0IjJsThb3Jn6MXlFECuHofShPaVPOdSAIc0/rs:fit/g:sm/q:40/h:300/w:300/czM6Ly9kaXNjb2dz/LWRhdGFiYXNlLWlt/YWdlcy9SLTIyNjc0/MTUtMTM3NDA0NzA0/Ny0yNzEwLmpwZWc.jpeg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: GDHAL on October 11, 2022, 06:42:56 PM
What - Grateful Dead
Why - best band in the world and best possible quality recordings

Sure, I listen to other bands too. Follow the link in my signature line
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: GDHAL on November 29, 2022, 01:34:22 PM
What:

Garaj Mahal
The Jack London Revue,
Portland, OR
November 18th, 2022

Sources: ADK-TLs (Cardioid 110°) and Core Sound Binaurals (90°) > Tascam DR-70D > wav 24/48
On Stage, 2 feet left of center
Lineage: wavs 24/48 > iZotope RX 10 Advanced > Adobe Audition 3 (matrix mixdown) > iZotope Neutron 3 Advanced > CD Wave > Flac 24
Matrix Mix: ADK 60%/CSB 55%

Fareed Haque - guitar
Ricardo - drums
Rod Araujo - keyboards


Set I

01 intro/talk
02 Use Me
03 Cantaloupe Island
04 ???
05 ??? @
06 ???

Set II

01 intros
02 Windjammer
03 slow blues???
04 ???
05 I Wish You Love ???
06 ???

Set III

01 intros
02 Never Give Up
03 ???
04 Kai talking about the accident and other things.
05 The Shadow
06 Pundit-Ji
07 talk/tuning
08 Cosmic Elevator
09 Jamie's Jam

WHY: sounds great,  it's a very recent recording, and the band is new to me
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: steve on November 29, 2022, 02:24:44 PM
Vladimir Horowitz plays Chopin Polonaise in A flat Major, Op.53 "Heroic" Polonaise

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oWBT6vOKu0Q

I also have Chopin, Jon Nakamatsu CD.

On YT.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_SvSBxJK0mw

cheers

steve

Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: BobM on November 29, 2022, 04:04:57 PM
Practicing my Christmas carols for the holidays, so I guess I'l listening to my piano.
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Nick B on November 29, 2022, 06:14:04 PM
Practicing my Christmas carols for the holidays, so I guess I'l listening to my piano.

Are you going to be performing in public?   🎤 🎅
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: GDHAL on November 30, 2022, 01:03:35 PM
What: Fleetwood Mac... A lot of it

Why: https://www.cnn.com/2022/11/30/entertainment/christine-mcvie-obit/index.html
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: TopRound‎ on November 30, 2022, 04:42:41 PM
Freddie Hubbard

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MuOHxZglpnU&ab_channel=Jerkicus

why? because its awesome
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on February 19, 2023, 12:26:22 PM
Listening to a KT120 K&K amp built on a Dynaco 120 chassis. Picked it up because the previous owner had too much gear and was selling in a rush. 
Pulled out something I don't think I've listened to since I got it years ago...
Not a bad pressing for an Angel vinyl.  DMM remaster helps make it quieter and more dynamic than the normal Angel.

(https://i.discogs.com/sOwl90oy9FWYM5woFCpHnAeHwJnQEiGLuxx7Np_Jnns/rs:fit/g:sm/q:90/h:598/w:600/czM6Ly9kaXNjb2dz/LWRhdGFiYXNlLWlt/YWdlcy9SLTEwNTU4/MTAxLTE1MDAwNDU4/NzUtOTE2OS5qcGVn.jpeg)

(https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRF785qaTVyqiF6GVlnQmymkyLm5tEnKJ-0eT2x3uHq8A&s)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: P.I. on February 19, 2023, 12:44:42 PM
Listening to a KT120 K&K amp built on a Dynaco 120 chassis. Picked it up because the previous owner was had too much gear and was selling in a rush. 

(https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRF785qaTVyqiF6GVlnQmymkyLm5tEnKJ-0eT2x3uHq8A&s)
You really scored on that amp!   :thumb:
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Nick B on February 19, 2023, 01:00:55 PM
Since mid-November when I moved, I’ve only been listening on my iPad 😢  A couple of days ago, there was finally enough room and organized space in the living room for me to put up my audio rack and components! I still need to clean up my stands and will use my little Fritz Carreras for a while while I have replacement drivers installed on one side of speakers, and awaiting a second pair.

It’s good to be back 👍 😊
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on February 19, 2023, 01:08:41 PM
It IS good to be back, and it's good to have you guys back as well.

I've got to learn more about this amp.  It was built by Philip Holmes, a fellow I've talked to a bit but really know very little about him.   There is an article on the build at Dagogo   https://www.dagogo.com/the-kk-audio-st70-boards-part-3-of-3/
I'm curious about the choice to have such a powerful tube run so cool.  These tubes are running at less than 1/2 of their potential output.   
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Nick B on February 19, 2023, 07:22:18 PM
Before I bought the AVA SET 120, which is a terrific little amp, I was giving serious thought to an ST 70, the Bob Latino version. If I recall correctly, those chassis had the connections on the front. Some of the different mods used a different chassis with connections in the back.
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: ejk on February 19, 2023, 11:58:50 PM
Welcome back guys.
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Nick B on February 20, 2023, 07:25:59 AM
Welcome back guys.

Thanks Evan
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: P.I. on February 20, 2023, 10:17:12 AM
Welcome back guys.
  :thumb:
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on February 21, 2023, 06:37:07 PM
Artur Rubenstein with Fritz Reiner and the Chicago Symphony playing Rachmaninoff's Rhapsody on a Theme by Paganini.
This is one of those old school RCA records that knock it out of the park sonically.  Just arrived today.  This one is probably from about 1964, a White Dog label, that to vinyl aficionados is as good as the more ballyhooed shaded dogs. 
I've got an earlier pressing, but it's a bit noisy, and this one is NM-.   

Rubenstein has fallen a bit out of favor in the 21st century, but he is a master of sound whose technique is strong enough to support his interpretation.  The RCA engineer, Lewis Layton (always excellent) is at his best. 
The melody that everyone know is just hauntingly beautiful.   
The Absolute Sound got this one right when it went one their list of excellence.   :thumb:
Side B is Falla's Nights in the Gardens of Spain, from a different performance with the San Francisco Sym. Almost as good as the Rachmaninoff.
(https://i.discogs.com/KYgv536AHcIw31ar1qZvYfXcmpDWXvfPEotvAS_IB9Q/rs:fit/g:sm/q:90/h:600/w:600/czM6Ly9kaXNjb2dz/LWRhdGFiYXNlLWlt/YWdlcy9SLTg0MjU5/MzgtMTYzMTExMjEw/Ni02NDU0LmpwZWc.jpeg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on February 23, 2023, 03:51:09 PM
Was in the mood for mono.
Mono can be sooooo good when set up on a dedicated rig.   I'd love to have an expensive Miyajima mono cartridge, but a +$200 Denon 102 is as much as I'm going to spring for.  Still sounds so much better than mono played on a stereo cartridge. 

Art Tatum Encores on a 10" Capitol pressed in 1951
(https://i.discogs.com/BSlcBo5_KFRnwxaOj-8cjwKtZr_3ls1L8aA1RnyGgMA/rs:fit/g:sm/q:90/h:600/w:600/czM6Ly9kaXNjb2dz/LWRhdGFiYXNlLWlt/YWdlcy9SLTE3NjU4/MjQtMTUwNzQxMzIy/NS0xNjcwLmpwZWc.jpeg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on February 23, 2023, 04:15:31 PM
Ok, I'm a piano nerd.  It's what happens when you're playing Chopin at age 11...
but combining Rachmaninoff with Art Tatum, check out this educational video.  If you like the Variations on a Theme by Paganini (and who doesn't)  watch this and learn something.  I love these type videos on You Tube.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KwYGbYF9r6U
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on February 24, 2023, 05:15:30 PM
So I got my wife to listen to the excellent RCA LSC 24630 Variations on Th. by Paganin on that mid 60's pressing, and then we put on the floppiest RCA Red Seal from the mid 70's of the same pianist, same conductor, same orchestra playing the Rach. 2nd Concerto... and even she said, "Why is it so muddy?"
Both are top flight early 60's recordings, both sought after in early pressing... but by the accountant penny pinchers at RCA had ruined the label in the late 60's early 70's, and the quality j u s t  w e n t  a w a y.   
There are reasons why the Shaded Dog/White Dogs are better.  Earlier stampers, better quality vinyl, heavier vinyl, and people who took pride in their work.
(http://www.vinylbeat.com/label-art/R/RCA%202I.jpg)
(http://www.vinylbeat.com/label-art/R/RCA%204B.jpg)

(http://www.vinylbeat.com/label-art/R/RCA%206E.jpg)
 
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Nick B on February 24, 2023, 09:43:24 PM
So I got my wife to listen to the excellent RCA LSC 24630 Variations on Th. by Paganin on that mid 60's pressing, and then we put on the floppiest RCA Red Seal from the mid 70's of the same pianist, same conductor, same orchestra playing the Rach. 2nd Concerto... and even she said, "Why is it so muddy?"
Both are top flight early 60's recordings, both sought after in early pressing... but by the accountant penny pinchers at RCA had ruined the label in the late 60's early 70's, and the quality j u s t  w e n t  a w a y.   
There are reasons why the Shaded Dog/White Dogs are better.  Earlier stampers, better quality vinyl, heavier vinyl, and people who took pride in their work.
(http://www.vinylbeat.com/label-art/R/RCA%202I.jpg)
(http://www.vinylbeat.com/label-art/R/RCA%204B.jpg)

(http://www.vinylbeat.com/label-art/R/RCA%206E.jpg)

It was fun when my wife would chime in occasionally with a comment or two about sq. I’m all for a company making a good profit AND producing a good product.
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on March 02, 2023, 11:56:15 AM
R.I.P.  Wayne Shorter

(https://i.discogs.com/jzaT6A0vhH_5LdvtqGQ63Pg5WgCrCkAMZfjLdetmwPM/rs:fit/g:sm/q:90/h:600/w:599/czM6Ly9kaXNjb2dz/LWRhdGFiYXNlLWlt/YWdlcy9SLTM4MjQ2/OS0xNDc4ODg1NjQw/LTIzNzcuanBlZw.jpeg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: GDHAL on March 02, 2023, 11:58:30 AM
https://www.audionervosa.com/index.php?topic=7.msg108255#msg108255
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on March 03, 2023, 08:54:43 PM
Diana Krall,  "Love Scenes"   
A friend gave me a newer 2016 audiophile pressing.  2 lp's at 33 1/3. 
Great sound.  I like her sound, but....  after a few songs is all just sounds the same.   I was listening to "They Can't Take That Away from Me" and thinking how dull it was compared to Tony Bennett's version.   
But the bass by Christian McBride is stunningly good. 

(https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0272/6255/0080/products/2lplovescnenes_medium.png?v=1600433384)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: P.I. on March 04, 2023, 07:42:26 PM
Diana Krall,  "Love Scenes"   
A friend gave me a newer 2016 audiophile pressing.  2 lp's at 33 1/3. 
Great sound.  I like her sound, but....  after a few songs is all just sounds the same.   I was listening to "They Can't Take That Away from Me" and thinking how dull it was compared to Tony Bennett's version.   
But the bass by Christian McBride is stunningly good. 

(https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0272/6255/0080/products/2lplovescnenes_medium.png?v=1600433384)
I agree about listening to Diana Krall.  I like her in small doses.  I much prefer Jane Monheit.
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: steve on March 08, 2023, 02:43:24 PM
Comparing the technique of three great pianists, Horowitz, Rubenstein, and Valentina Lisitsa.
Using Polonaise op 53 A flat major.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oWBT6vOKu0Q

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j5ScGtmvSgY

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fW0Y3M4EJ4M

I like all three players.

cheers

steve
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on March 14, 2023, 02:22:06 PM
Comparing the technique of three great pianists, Horowitz, Rubenstein, and Valentina Lisitsa.
Using Polonaise op 53 A flat major.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oWBT6vOKu0Q

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j5ScGtmvSgY

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fW0Y3M4EJ4M

I like all three players.

cheers

steve
I've done that with a Rachmaninoff prelude... Richter, Horowitz, Gilels

Today, it's Miles Davis and "Kind of Blue". 
I ripped a power lead out of my Folsom amp, repaired it, broke another wire internally, repaired it.  I wanted something I knew well.   
    Miles Davis – trumpet
    Julian "Cannonball" Adderley – alto saxophone except on "Blue in Green" and bonus disc track "So What"
    John Coltrane – tenor saxophone
    Bill Evans – piano except on "Freddie Freeloader" and bonus disc track "So What"
    Wynton Kelly – piano on "Freddie Freeloader" and bonus disc track "So What"
    Paul Chambers – double bass
    Jimmy Cobb – drums
Wow.  Miles, Trane, Cannonball, Evans, Kelly, Chambers, and Cobb.....   Holy shit.  Most of the guys are Hall of Fame.   

(https://www.jazzwise.com/media/70915/kind-of-blue-article-screen-grab-two.jpg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on March 16, 2023, 03:19:51 PM
Bill Evans and Jim Hall 
"Undercurrents"  MFSL 
This is great music that was recorded with some issues... and the MFSL didn't improve on them.  Still, the vinyl is quiet, just a few areas perhaps recorded too hot originally.

(https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/QasAAOSww6Vhkv10/s-l500.jpg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on March 19, 2023, 09:17:59 PM
Art Pepper "+ Eleven"
A 1959 mono pressing on Contemporary Records. 
My wife is visiting sisters and mother, and I've been binging "Bosch".  Art Pepper was on his system, and I needed to scratch that itch
(https://i.discogs.com/FiJDptNDgMSfiwd52KVrOVclHRjXRIMLobEF6JDSSFc/rs:fit/g:sm/q:90/h:600/w:600/czM6Ly9kaXNjb2dz/LWRhdGFiYXNlLWlt/YWdlcy9SLTI5OTMy/NDMtMTQzNzQwNzM1/Ni01NTM0LmpwZWc.jpeg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on March 23, 2023, 09:10:56 PM
Collaboration-   The Modern Jazz Quartet with Laurindo Almeida
On  Atlantic 1429, a 1964 pressing. 
Just got this today, a first pressing of a special run by MGM. 
Got to say, it has a really nice version of the adagio in Concierto de Aranjuez.  Almeida's classical guitar melded with Milt Jackson on the vibraharp is an interesting (perhaps odd) combo. 

(https://i.discogs.com/y1AbT06zF8MaRus0sSDmCG9YhPzoND9OJflu03wDiik/rs:fit/g:sm/q:90/h:600/w:600/czM6Ly9kaXNjb2dz/LWRhdGFiYXNlLWlt/YWdlcy9SLTEyNTQ4/ODgxLTE1Mzc1NjY5/MjktMjEzNy5qcGVn.jpeg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on March 24, 2023, 09:44:35 PM
Jon Faddis- "Remembrances" on a Chesky CD

Easy jazz trumpet...
Nice example:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hTsgOkDN6dg

(https://i.discogs.com/9yuK0ZJmrEO_SOcI_qlkKvaAhEFqypRPcm9MSmbLg7A/rs:fit/g:sm/q:40/h:300/w:300/czM6Ly9kaXNjb2dz/LWRhdGFiYXNlLWlt/YWdlcy9SLTg4MTU0/MjctMTY0NTY4Njgy/NS05MDQ1LmpwZWc.jpeg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on March 28, 2023, 09:51:14 AM
Beatles Mono Masters 
A three LP set of songs mastered and released in mono.  Released in 2014.

Loaned to me for review... Quiet vinyl, classic pop sound, vocals clear, bass driven.  Wish they'd put the guitars more forward.  Drums a bit muffled, Paul's bass loud and a bit loose.
This stuff is fun to listen to, but not what I'd call audiophile.  Enjoy it for what it is.

(https://i.discogs.com/LIf9kbVn9TlRi4SYOhaelQ6Y3U3IU3gYfh2RI3YMGvY/rs:fit/g:sm/q:90/h:600/w:600/czM6Ly9kaXNjb2dz/LWRhdGFiYXNlLWlt/YWdlcy9SLTYwNzUy/NzktMTYyMzcwMTA5/OC01NzgyLmpwZWc.jpeg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: GDHAL on March 28, 2023, 10:27:50 AM
It's unclear to me at this point what the difference between this thread and the what are you listening to now thread is.

Given the title, I thought that this thread was supposed to include *why* you're listening to what it is you're listening to. :)

Best.

Hal
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: James Edward on March 28, 2023, 12:43:38 PM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NjUQMs0kVEI
I don’t know… Made me think of it.
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on March 28, 2023, 01:34:52 PM
I usually list a reason or at least a comment about the music.  I started this thread some time ago because I felt just a list of what you listened to doesn't hold as much value...at least IMHO. 
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on March 28, 2023, 01:52:37 PM
"Blues in the Closet" on the BayBridge label (Japanese label and pressing)
The Master Trio-- Tommy Flanagan, Ron Carter, and Tony Williams

This was a gift from a friend that had two copies. Wow, these guys go together so smooth for a "hard" bop album.  I've always liked Tommy Flanagan, but really haven't search out his work. That will change.

And as always, Japanese pressings are soooo well done.   

(https://i.discogs.com/5Ja-QPpsu4BsGlf5Mr3IZl4GMHf4pteH5XTMsvPr-Ak/rs:fit/g:sm/q:90/h:600/w:600/czM6Ly9kaXNjb2dz/LWRhdGFiYXNlLWlt/YWdlcy9SLTQ5NjI0/MjAtMTM4MDczMjkx/MS0xODgwLmpwZWc.jpeg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: GDHAL on March 28, 2023, 01:57:14 PM
I usually list a reason or at least a comment about the music.  I started this thread some time ago because I felt just a list of what you listened to doesn't hold as much value...at least IMHO.

Fair enough, Scott.

Should the functionality exist, we can petition the moderator/admin to join the threads.

In my case, I'll continue to post in the what are you listening to now thread , only because in  most instances I have no particular reason as to why.

 :D :rofl: :D :rofl: :D :rofl: :D :rofl:

Best.

Hal
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Nick B on March 28, 2023, 02:31:42 PM
I usually list a reason or at least a comment about the music.  I started this thread some time ago because I felt just a list of what you listened to doesn't hold as much value...at least IMHO.

Fair enough, Scott.

Should the functionality exist, we can petition the moderator/admin to join the threads.

In my case, I'll continue to post in the what are you listening to now thread , only because in  most instances I have no particular reason as to why.

 :D :rofl: :D :rofl: :D :rofl: :D :rofl:

Best.

Hal

Either way works for me 🎶🎶🎶
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on April 27, 2023, 10:48:01 AM
Pulled out a copy of "The New World Symphony" by Dvorak last night on Epic with George Szell thr Cleveland Symphony.  Played the first side noting how everything was coming from the center.
Turned the LP, sure enough, it's a mono vinyl from 1959.  Played the back half with a mono cartridge to a very different sound.  Moved it over to the Mono Classical stack. 

(https://i.discogs.com/q-9jeBToZXyyhsyT3qkELQbKRGFoWqAuQFyCJpi7fwo/rs:fit/g:sm/q:90/h:600/w:600/czM6Ly9kaXNjb2dz/LWRhdGFiYXNlLWlt/YWdlcy9SLTE5NDA1/NTktMTM3OTQ2Mzk2/My0xODIyLmpwZWc.jpeg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Nick B on April 27, 2023, 08:06:28 PM
Pulled out a copy of "The New World Symphony" by Dvorak last night on Epic with George Szell thr Cleveland Symphony.  Played the first side noting how everything was coming from the center.
Turned the LP, sure enough, it's a mono vinyl from 1959.  Played the back half with a mono cartridge to a very different sound.  Moved it over to the Mono Classical stack. 

(https://i.discogs.com/q-9jeBToZXyyhsyT3qkELQbKRGFoWqAuQFyCJpi7fwo/rs:fit/g:sm/q:90/h:600/w:600/czM6Ly9kaXNjb2dz/LWRhdGFiYXNlLWlt/YWdlcy9SLTE5NDA1/NTktMTM3OTQ2Mzk2/My0xODIyLmpwZWc.jpeg)

What arm do you use with what table and which tables are mono vs stereo?
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on April 27, 2023, 08:51:39 PM
This is the table in my big room, the Vyger Timor.  I've got a Pioneer Exclusive P3 tonearm (the EA-03) with a Dynavector 20x2L on a pod, and a plinth mounted Jelco 370H with a Benz Ace Ebony modified to mono by Steve Leung of VAS.     
The photo is stock and not my arm set up. 
(https://www.vyger.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/vyger-turntables-timor-5.jpg)

In my smaller room, I've got a Victor TT81 with a pod (courtesy of Dave E) mounted Jelco750E, and a Technics SP10II with a Syntec S220 arm with a Denon 102 mono cartridge.

Here is the Pioneer arm:
(https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0527/7315/9071/products/57_8d9cbe8a-64a4-43ad-96da-0b951be3be08_250x250@2x.jpg?v=1637649571)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Nick B on April 27, 2023, 10:00:16 PM
This is the table in my big room, the Vyger Timor.  I've got a Pioneer Exclusive P3 tonearm (the EA-03) with a Dynavector 20x2L on a pod, and a plinth mounted Jelco 370H with a Benz Ace Ebony modified to mono by Steve Leung of VAS.     
The photo is stock and not my arm set up. 
(https://www.vyger.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/vyger-turntables-timor-5.jpg)

In my smaller room, I've got a Victor TT81 with a pod (courtesy of Dave E) mounted Jelco750E, and a Technics SP10II with a Syntec S220 arm with a Denon 102 mono cartridge.

Here is the Pioneer arm:
(https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0527/7315/9071/products/57_8d9cbe8a-64a4-43ad-96da-0b951be3be08_250x250@2x.jpg?v=1637649571)

What nice vinyl gear. I’ve not heard mono in my house. Don’t recall one mono album I’ve ever owned. A couple of years ago, I sold and delivered my Basis Ovation table to a nice guy down in so. California. Last I heard he was working with Basis to get their Vector tonearm to fit the armboard with an adapter plate. I tried to sell the Graham arm as a package deal, but had to sell it separately to another guy in so. California. Never heard back from him either if he could find or afford a good table.
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: P.I. on April 27, 2023, 10:17:14 PM
This is the table in my big room, the Vyger Timor.  I've got a Pioneer Exclusive P3 tonearm (the EA-03) with a Dynavector 20x2L on a pod, and a plinth mounted Jelco 370H with a Benz Ace Ebony modified to mono by Steve Leung of VAS.     
The photo is stock and not my arm set up. 
(https://www.vyger.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/vyger-turntables-timor-5.jpg)

In my smaller room, I've got a Victor TT81 with a pod (courtesy of Dave E) mounted Jelco750E, and a Technics SP10II with a Syntec S220 arm with a Denon 102 mono cartridge.

Here is the Pioneer arm:
(https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0527/7315/9071/products/57_8d9cbe8a-64a4-43ad-96da-0b951be3be08_250x250@2x.jpg?v=1637649571)

What nice vinyl gear. I’ve not heard mono in my house. Don’t recall one mono album I’ve ever owned. A couple of years ago, I sold and delivered my Basis Ovation table to a nice guy down in so. California. Last I heard he was working with Basis to get their Vector tonearm to fit the armboard with an adapter plate. I tried to sell the Graham arm as a package deal, but had to sell it separately to another guy in so. California. Never heard back from him either if he could find or afford a good table.
The last mono album I bought was John Mayall and the Bluesbreakers with Eric Clapton. K-mart: 1967.
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on April 28, 2023, 12:32:34 PM
1967 was about when mono lathes began to disappear.  After that time, even "mono" records were cut with stereo lathes with different shape cutting styli.  My two mono cartridges reflect that change as well.  My older Denon 102 is a conical stylus and plays old mono lps in a smooth and forgiving way. The Benz is a modern line contact styli.  I can get a clean sound out of a pretty banged up older mono lp compared to a later stereo if it was cut with a conical cutter.  And it affects my record buying.  I stay away from buying anything stereo below NM-, whereas I'll go down to even VG in old mono.   
There may still be a few of those old Scully/Westrex lathes, rebuilt a time or two, still out there cutting away... but they've got to be ancient. 
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on May 19, 2023, 12:16:44 PM
William Ackerman- "Passage"
Founder of Windham Hill records, and influential "new age" guitarist.
Came in from putting in some hours trimming and painting a new door... and I was whipped.  You listen this genre and you just float in the music. 

(https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c76d41efb18207d5202e98d/1577923396453-65JJJD1XUR0JQ6MBF659/Passage.png?format=750w)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Nick B on May 19, 2023, 04:59:13 PM
William Ackerman- "Passage"
Founder of Windham Hill records, and influential "new age" guitarist.
Came in from putting in some hours trimming and painting a new door... and I was whipped.  You listen this genre and you just float in the music. 

(https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c76d41efb18207d5202e98d/1577923396453-65JJJD1XUR0JQ6MBF659/Passage.png?format=750w)

Just what I needed 🎶🎶   I just had 4 shelves put up in the garage. Now I’m dusting, hosing my plastic stands and all the boxes from the move. It was worth paying the guy….and he did quality work too 👍
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: P.I. on May 19, 2023, 07:57:41 PM
William Ackerman- "Passage"
Founder of Windham Hill records, and influential "new age" guitarist.
Came in from putting in some hours trimming and painting a new door... and I was whipped.  You listen this genre and you just float in the music. 

(https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c76d41efb18207d5202e98d/1577923396453-65JJJD1XUR0JQ6MBF659/Passage.png?format=750w)
:thumb:

Just what I needed 🎶🎶   I just had 4 shelves put up in the garage. Now I’m dusting, hosing my plastic stands and all the boxes from the move. It was worth paying the guy….and he did quality work too 👍
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on June 12, 2023, 06:48:36 PM
The Complete Chopin Waltzes  w. Artur Rubinstein on RCA
LM 1892
This is a 1956 mono first pressing.  And with a dedicated mono cartridge, it sounds pretty amazing. 
As I've aged, I've come to appreciate Rubinstein more as a very balanced and mature interpreter of the piano. 
(https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/91CAhUlu+1L._UF1000,1000_QL80_.jpg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on January 17, 2024, 12:45:52 PM
It's time to resurrect this thread.  Tell us what you've been listening to.

I cherry picked a buddy's vinyl collection before he sold it.  So I've been listening to a handful this morning...

(https://i.discogs.com/kds5oBjihZ3rTh0owg1H76SykrMXheY6_Tl07C6WmJA/rs:fit/g:sm/q:90/h:600/w:590/czM6Ly9kaXNjb2dz/LWRhdGFiYXNlLWlt/YWdlcy9SLTEzMzUz/NzgtMTM5MjAwNzg1/My0yNjA5LmpwZWc.jpeg)

(https://i.discogs.com/zsXzVMPoSnnviqE76NqIaMKMm6vQrDWrWftXMQL6zq0/rs:fit/g:sm/q:90/h:600/w:599/czM6Ly9kaXNjb2dz/LWRhdGFiYXNlLWlt/YWdlcy9SLTIwMjI2/NDM5LTE2MzE2MDY1/NTYtNTgxNC5qcGVn.jpeg)

(https://i.discogs.com/Rj2djyWCOnRg5yVzugTh1L2bMUd5tcXE3vc-PI8vZ40/rs:fit/g:sm/q:90/h:598/w:600/czM6Ly9kaXNjb2dz/LWRhdGFiYXNlLWlt/YWdlcy9SLTc2ODcx/MTgtMTQ0Njc0MTU0/OC00NDM1LmpwZWc.jpeg)

The Telac I already had, so I knew what a good recording it is.  The Reference Recording is something new to me... and excellent.   About another dozen to go.   
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Nick B on January 17, 2024, 04:26:23 PM
Nice to resurrect this thread as you say. But sadly, I have a sick..or petulant…preamp that only wants to play out of the right channel. I’m awaiting word if the warranty will extend to the second owner (me) 🤷‍♀️

Will be in the mood to play some rock when it gets fixed…..
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on January 17, 2024, 05:29:02 PM
One channel?  No problem.   The answer is mono from the 50's and 60's. 
Check out Sviatoslav Ricter's performance in Sophia, Bulgaria in 1958... or the early Beatles.   
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CitIXrkQfzo
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Nick B on January 17, 2024, 06:19:31 PM
One channel?  No problem.   The answer is mono from the 50's and 60's. 
Check out Sviatoslav Ricter's performance in Sophia, Bulgaria in 1958... or the early Beatles.   
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CitIXrkQfzo

And what a simple an elegant solution and I can also save on tubes! But seriously, I’ve not owned a mono cartridge and really can’t remember hearing mono at shows either. That would be fun 👍
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on January 18, 2024, 10:44:02 AM
Have you found a tech that can repair your Supratek here in the states?  I see they are still around, down under. 
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Nick B on January 18, 2024, 12:09:34 PM
Have you found a tech that can repair your Supratek here in the states?  I see they are still around, down under.

Yes, there’s one in the US and he’s in North or South Carolina. The repairs are covered under warranty, but the shipping is on me. Stuff happens….dont think it was anything on my part….
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on January 19, 2024, 07:01:43 PM
More from my friends vinyl collection:

This Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis was the very first cd I owned in 1982.  It was an excellent and dynamic cd, and now I have it on vinyl.  Great music.  Barber's Adagio is very lush and full. 

(https://i.discogs.com/qnw1itoY-7A7Q5kt7hHjSsp8eRHLZC4ryIXEtY4ECck/rs:fit/g:sm/q:40/h:300/w:300/czM6Ly9kaXNjb2dz/LWRhdGFiYXNlLWlt/YWdlcy9SLTE4NjYy/NzIyLTE2MjA4NzYw/NDEtMjk0My5qcGVn.jpeg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on January 20, 2024, 06:26:10 PM
Another from my friends collection:

Paul Desmond "From the Hot Afternoon".... but it couldn't be cooler.  Can anyone play cool west coast jazz like Desmond?
There are two jazz guys that I can never get enough of... Bill Evans and Paul Desmond.  I can listen for hours.  This one is a bossa nova style.   
This is an A&M records/CTI pressing from 1969.  Oh, and a bonus... Ron Carter on bass. 

(https://i.discogs.com/gPc4yb22Jk0j9CqT7KMjepFE1H-cnV3shx7V90CMRZo/rs:fit/g:sm/q:90/h:600/w:599/czM6Ly9kaXNjb2dz/LWRhdGFiYXNlLWlt/YWdlcy9SLTEwMDk2/NTgzLTE0OTE1NDk4/NDktMTQ1My5qcGVn.jpeg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on January 22, 2024, 12:07:30 PM
Another pick up from my buddy. 
I usually listen to the Nutcracker at least once over Christmas, but it slipped by me this year. 
So I've got a new/old RCA Living Stereo shaded dog by Fritz Reiner/Chicago.  It's playing very cleanly as I type (hope it holds up).  Although Tchaikovsky held his creation in low regard, it's just a lovely bit of musical fluff. 
These old RCA's were really quite special in sound quality.   :thumb:

(https://i.discogs.com/wWHcOj3RFhdLFAQm7GHNF6md334RtgAWR_vZhXsQKR4/rs:fit/g:sm/q:90/h:599/w:596/czM6Ly9kaXNjb2dz/LWRhdGFiYXNlLWlt/YWdlcy9SLTEwNDU5/ODAyLTE2OTU2Nzg0/NDctMzU1Ny5qcGVn.jpeg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: James Edward on January 23, 2024, 05:28:00 AM
Another from my friends collection:

Paul Desmond "From the Hot Afternoon".... but it couldn't be cooler.  Can anyone play cool west coast jazz like Desmond?
There are two jazz guys that I can never get enough of... Bill Evans and Paul Desmond.  I can listen for hours.  This one is a bossa nova style.   
This is an A&M records/CTI pressing from 1969.  Oh, and a bonus... Ron Carter on bass. 

(https://i.discogs.com/gPc4yb22Jk0j9CqT7KMjepFE1H-cnV3shx7V90CMRZo/rs:fit/g:sm/q:90/h:600/w:599/czM6Ly9kaXNjb2dz/LWRhdGFiYXNlLWlt/YWdlcy9SLTEwMDk2/NTgzLTE0OTE1NDk4/NDktMTQ1My5qcGVn.jpeg)
Well, I’m listening to this on a cool/cold morning in NY, far from Brazil, and it’s great music. Listening via Tidal though…
It’s always great to pick up new music suggestions here so thanks. I need some more of Nick B’s 60’s easy listening suggestions too!
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on January 23, 2024, 03:19:41 PM
I was putting these new records in the shelves when I realized I already had a copy of "From the Hot Afternoon".
Anyone around here still spinning vinyl?  I don't need two of them.   
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Nick B on January 23, 2024, 03:44:04 PM
Another from my friends collection:

Paul Desmond "From the Hot Afternoon".... but it couldn't be cooler.  Can anyone play cool west coast jazz like Desmond?
There are two jazz guys that I can never get enough of... Bill Evans and Paul Desmond.  I can listen for hours.  This one is a bossa nova style.   
This is an A&M records/CTI pressing from 1969.  Oh, and a bonus... Ron Carter on bass. 

(https://i.discogs.com/gPc4yb22Jk0j9CqT7KMjepFE1H-cnV3shx7V90CMRZo/rs:fit/g:sm/q:90/h:600/w:599/czM6Ly9kaXNjb2dz/LWRhdGFiYXNlLWlt/YWdlcy9SLTEwMDk2/NTgzLTE0OTE1NDk4/NDktMTQ1My5qcGVn.jpeg)
Well, I’m listening to this on a cool/cold morning in NY, far from Brazil, and it’s great music. Listening via Tidal though…
It’s always great to pick up new music suggestions here so thanks. I need some more of Nick B’s 60’s easy listening suggestions too!

Jim,

Easy Listening is a big category. Depending on taste, here are some options…Ray Conniff, Dean Martin, Perry Como, Bert Kaempfert, 101 Strings, Acker Bilk, Roger Whittaker, the Mr Blue Music for Hotel Restaurant Bar series, Lawrence Welk.
Think I’ll stop there for now…

Nick

Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on January 26, 2024, 08:27:47 PM
Ok guys.  If you like jazz at all, you've got to find this and listen to it.

A buddy picked up "Rollins in Holland", a new release of Sonny Rollins from a tour in Holland in 1967, and gave it to me for my impressions. 
'67 was a difficult time for jazz.  Numbers were down.  Many, desperate to connect with a younger audience, had merged into a more pop sound.  And Sonny, for me, has always been someone I appreciated in small portions.  But he teams up with a Dutch bass and drummer that he'd heard, but not played with.  The tour proceeded unrehearsed.   But by '67 Rollins could set a tone, a beat, and a feeling- and others could follow and even freely take flight of their own.  It's perhaps one of the last breathes of post bop that still had vitality- just as all the jazz greats moved to different stuff.
Side one is Bernie Grundman showpiece of great tonality and spaciousness (perhaps too much?).  But even if at times you wonder how that got that sound in a tiny studio, the fact is that they did get an amazing sound.  I actually jumped once when the bass hit huge accent.  The sax is just liquid.

And then side 3 is from a different session.  Right off the bat, it just isn't as magic, but as you keep listening, you stop listening to the recording and start listening to the music... and it goes on, and on.  After all, it's a 22 minute take.  And it gets better... and better.... and better.  In some ways it reminds me of the energy from the great Paul Gonsalves solo for Ellington at Newport (if you don't know it, find it).  But Sonny is better than Gonsalves.  He's more of master of his instrument, and more of a master of musical complexity.  Finally I turned off my rig.  I'd been listening way too loud compared to my usual
I've still got side 4  to listen to tomorrow.  But I can already say that I thing this pressing is the best Sonny Rollins stuff I've heard-  better than Saxophone Colossus or Way Out West.   I think my buddy paid full price for this "Record Day" release, but I'll go find an nice used copy. 
If you are a jazz guy, or sort of a jazz guy, find this and let me know what you think.

(https://images.theabsolutesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Sonny-Rollins-Rollins-in-Holland.jpeg)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on March 09, 2024, 04:48:33 PM
Pepper Adams "Urban Dream"
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/b/bd/Urban_Dreams.jpg)i'm

A friend dropped by a few days ago with a gift to aid my recovery from back surgery... a later recording of Pepper Adams showing he still had his baritone sax chops even in 1981.  The guy played with all the big names in the 50's and 60's. Unlike guys like Mulligan who played a cooler style, Pepper could swing that big horn like it was an alto.  His version of "Dexter Rides Again" is pretty nice. 
I'm 18 days out from surgery, getting around pretty good, and discomfort is manageable. 
I'm looking forward to being able to lift more than 10 pounds.  That's still weeks away, but I'm geitting stronger each day. 




Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Nick B on March 09, 2024, 05:23:27 PM
Pepper Adams "Urban Dream"
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/b/bd/Urban_Dreams.jpg)i'm

A friend dropped by a few days ago with a gift to aid my recovery from back surgery... a later recording of Pepper Adams showing he still had his baritone sax chops even in 1981.  The guy played with all the big names in the 50's and 60's. Unlike guys like Mulligan who played a cooler style, Pepper could swing that big horn like it was an alto.  His version of "Dexter Rides Again" is pretty nice. 
I'm 18 days out from surgery, getting around pretty good, and discomfort is manageable. 
I'm looking forward to being able to lift more than 10 pounds.  That's still weeks away, but I'm geitting stronger each day.

Glad you’re doing better. I was just about to post and ask. Stay out of mischief for a bit longer and listen to more albums 🎶 🎺🎸🎻🎹
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on March 09, 2024, 07:23:09 PM

Glad you’re doing better. I was just about to post and ask. Stay out of mischief for a bit longer and listen to more albums 🎶 🎺🎸🎻🎹
Thanks, Nick.  A key seems to be to get up and move.  Been a pretty good day today.  I"ll probably listen to one more and hit the sack.
From the RCA Living Stero CD collection-- 60 cd's from their Golden Era. 
Saint-Saens Sym 3 Boston Sym conducted by Munch
(https://www.classicstoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2005/01/SS3munch.jpg)

Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Nick B on March 10, 2024, 06:41:59 PM

Glad you’re doing better. I was just about to post and ask. Stay out of mischief for a bit longer and listen to more albums 🎶 🎺🎸🎻🎹
Thanks, Nick.  A key seems to be to get up and move.  Been a pretty good day today.  I"ll probably listen to one more and hit the sack.
From the RCA Living Stero CD collection-- 60 cd's from their Golden Era. 
Saint-Saens Sym 3 Boston Sym conducted by Munch
(https://www.classicstoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2005/01/SS3munch.jpg)

Glad you’re coming along, Scott. I don’t recall the type of surgery… did they cut out a bit of the disc and the muscles they cut through need to heal and get stronger? When I had my hip replaced, the doc had to cut through muscles on the side (the old surgery technique) and I had to wear a corset/support for a while when sleeping.
I believe Dave has an appt coming up for his hurting back. Getting older sucks 😵‍💫
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: S Clark on March 11, 2024, 01:05:12 PM
My op was Laminectomy and fusion of lumbar 3 and 4.  Basically, they cut the top of the vertebra and thow it away, opening the top of the spinal canal to relieve pressure on the spinal cord.  They also trimmed some off of L2 and L5 for the same issue. 
They go in through about a 4-5" incision in the lower back.  Obviously they have to cut through some muscle and bone.  So it's not fun for a week or two.  I'm 20 days out, and getting around ok, but with stiffness and variable discomfort.  Can't lift anything significant for months.  No switching out amps as the weather warms (unless I can get my wife to do it... tubes get Too hot)
Title: Re: WHY and What are you Listening to?
Post by: Nick B on March 11, 2024, 09:09:13 PM
My op was Laminectomy and fusion of lumbar 3 and 4.  Basically, they cut the top of the vertebra and thow it away, opening the top of the spinal canal to relieve pressure on the spinal cord.  They also trimmed some off of L2 and L5 for the same issue. 
They go in through about a 4-5" incision in the lower back.  Obviously they have to cut through some muscle and bone.  So it's not fun for a week or two.  I'm 20 days out, and getting around ok, but with stiffness and variable discomfort.  Can't lift anything significant for months.  No switching out amps as the weather warms (unless I can get my wife to do it... tubes get Too hot)

There’s a long recovery involved. There are different post op protocols, but my surgeon ordered an electrostim belt that I wore an hour a day and it was good for 280 days. I wore it about 80% of those days and the electronics actually counted each day whether you used the belt or not. I got a very good, but not perfect, result.  Had I not had the surgery, I really wouldn’t be able to function normally in day to day activities. I don’t have weight restrictions either, other than using good technique to lift heavier objects and not lift heavy items regularly and repeatedly.

Hopefully you’ll get a very good result like I did.